Public Health experts slam GST cut on bidis

Public health experts and anti-tobacco activists on Thursday expressed surprise at the GST Council’s decision to reduce the GST on bidis from 28 percent to 18 per cent. 

While the GST on cigars, cigarettes, and other tobacco products has been increased from 28 percent to 40 percent, the GST on bidis was, surprisingly, reduced to 18 percent.

Noted public health specialist



and anti-tobacco activist Rijo M John expressed regret and surprise over the move. 

“The move to cut GST on bidis from 28 percent to 18 percent, instead of raising it to 40 percent with other tobacco products, is a huge setback for public health. Bidi smoking is the most common tobacco use in India and carries the highest health burden. I hope that the council reconsiders this,” he posted on X.