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  • Understanding GSTR-3B

    GSTR-3B is a monthly summary return filed by registered taxpayers under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system in India. It provides a snapshot of the total tax liability and input tax credits (ITC) available for a particular month. While not as detailed as other returns, it is crucial for tax compliance.

    Components of GSTR-3B

    1. Tax Liability Summary:
    • This section outlines the total tax liability arising from sales or supplies made during the month. It includes:
      • IGST (Integrated GST): Applicable on inter-state supplies and exports.
      • CGST (Central GST) and SGST (State GST): Applicable on intra-state supplies.
    1. Input Tax Credit (ITC):
    1. Net Tax Payable:
    • After claiming ITC, the net tax payable is calculated. This can be paid using the electronic cash ledger or by utilizing accumulated ITC.

    Filing Process

    1. Login to the GST Portal:
    • Access the GST portal with valid credentials.
    1. Navigate to Returns Dashboard:
    • Select the appropriate financial year and tax period.
    1. Filling Out GSTR-3B:
    • Sales and Output Tax:
      • Enter the total value of outward supplies (sales) and applicable taxes.
    • Purchases and ITC:
      • Declare the value of inward supplies (purchases) and claim eligible ITC.
    • Tax Payable:
      • Calculate the net tax payable after deducting ITC from the total tax liability.
    1. Payment of Tax:
    • Use the electronic cash ledger to pay any outstanding tax liability.
    1. Submission:
    • Review all entries, ensure accuracy, and submit the form. Once submitted, it cannot be revised.

    Example for Illustration

    Scenario:

    • Sales in April: ₹300,000 (GST @18% = ₹54,000)
    • Purchases in April: ₹200,000 (GST @18% = ₹36,000)

    Steps:

    1. Output Tax:
    • Total Sales: ₹300,000
    • GST on Sales: ₹54,000 (divided as IGST/CGST/SGST depending on the nature of sales)
    1. Input Tax Credit:
    • Total Purchases: ₹200,000
    • GST on Purchases: ₹36,000
    1. Net Tax Liability:
    • Output Tax: ₹54,000
    • Less ITC: ₹36,000
    • Net Tax Payable: ₹18,000
    1. Payment:
    • Pay ₹18,000 using ITC or cash through the GST portal.

    Importance of GSTR-3B

    • Timeliness: Must be filed by the 20th of the following month.
    • Penalties for Late Filing:
    • Interest on late payment of tax.
    • Late fee for delayed filing.
    • Compliance: Ensures accurate reporting and adherence to tax regulations.

    Academic Insights

    GSTR-3B serves as a foundational document for GST compliance, offering insights into tax liabilities and credits. It helps students understand:

    • Tax Calculation: How taxes are computed on sales and purchases.
    • Credit Utilization: The role of ITC in reducing tax burdens.
    • Regulatory Compliance: The importance of timely and accurate tax filing.

    By mastering GSTR-3B, learners gain a practical understanding of tax mechanics, aiding in their comprehension of broader GST principles.

  • GST Tax raid Unraveling a Web of Tax Evasion in the Restaurant Industry

    In a groundbreaking crackdown, the State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) department has uncovered a vast network of tax evasion amounting to several crores in prominent restaurants across the state. Over the course of a strategic operation, 250 officers from the Intelligence and Enforcement wings executed meticulous raids on 42 establishments, revealing a shocking turnover suppression of ₹60 crore. The initial day of this decisive action resulted in the recovery of ₹40 lakh in fines.

    This comprehensive sweep spanned all districts, save for Pathanamthitta, and extended beyond the restaurant premises to the residences of owners and partners. These targeted operations were not haphazard but the culmination of six months of rigorous surveillance, where officers discreetly frequented the restaurants, blending in as regular patrons while scrutinizing food vloggers’ content for invaluable insights.

    Sources within the GST department detailed the sophisticated tax evasion tactics employed by these establishments. From withholding bills to reclaiming them post-payment, and even manipulating accounting software, the methods were as varied as they were audacious. Some restaurants issued identical bill numbers daily, effectively duping customers, while others processed payments through the personal UPI accounts of employees, bypassing official channels entirely.

    Dubbed Operation Phanum, inspired by the Gen Alpha slang “fanum tax”—the playful notion of food theft among friends—this initiative unveiled additional malpractices, such as unreported outside catering services, further complicating the web of deceit.

    This operation follows the earlier Operation Palm Tree raids on scrap dealers in May, where tax evasions totaling ₹250 crore were uncovered, leading to arrests. The SGST department’s relentless pursuit of fiscal compliance highlights its commitment to dismantling tax evasion practices and restoring integrity to the industry.


    This assertive and expertly crafted narrative not only informs but also engages, presenting a vivid portrayal of the SGST’s extensive efforts to combat tax evasion in the restaurant sector.

  • Gujarat’s Business Landscape Shaken—A Deep Dive into the GST Impact

    In the bustling economic hub of Ahmedabad, the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) promised a simplified taxation system, designed to enhance business operations. However, data from the state commercial tax department reveals a staggering reality: approximately 405,000 businesses in Gujarat have shuttered since the GST rollout, highlighting significant challenges in the new tax regime.

    This wave of closures, represented by the cancellation of GST Identification Numbers (GSTINs), reflects both the consolidation of businesses and outright shutdowns. Alarmingly, these closures in the past two years alone account for nearly 47% of all cancellations since the GST was introduced, marking a significant trend in Gujarat’s economic landscape. To put it into perspective, the cancelled GSTINs comprise 30% of the current 1.195 million taxpayers in the state.

    Industry experts and officials from the State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) department attribute this upheaval to various factors, including strategic mergers, acquisitions, and unfortunate closures. Many entrepreneurs registered for GST with expansion ambitions; however, unanticipated challenges often resulted in penalties for non-compliance, prompting them to surrender their registrations. The past years have also seen a surge in business consolidations, particularly in sectors like engineering, plastics, and retail, where geopolitical tensions further strained operations.

    Pathik Patwari, former president of the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), underscores the impact of rigorous enforcement against fraudulent billing practices, which forced many non-compliant entities to shut down. This, coupled with adverse economic conditions, has led to the closure of numerous enterprises across the state.

    Moreover, data from the Union MSME ministry reveals that from July 2020 to December 2023, about 32,298 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide relinquished their Udyam registrations, with Gujarat accounting for a notable share. This exodus signifies deeper structural challenges that need to be addressed to revitalize the state’s entrepreneurial spirit.

    In essence, while the GST regime aimed to streamline taxation and foster business growth, its implementation has unveiled significant hurdles that have reshaped Gujarat’s commercial terrain. The state now stands at a crossroads, navigating the delicate balance between regulatory compliance and fostering a conducive environment for business resilience and growth.

  • Landmark GST Exemption on ESOPs for Indian Subsidiaries of Global Giants

    In a move poised to significantly benefit multinational corporations like Google, Microsoft, Oracle, and Walmart, the Indian government has announced that Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOPs), Employee Stock Purchase Plans (ESPPs), and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) provided by foreign firms to their employees in India will not attract Goods and Services Tax (GST), subject to certain conditions.

    This regulatory shift addresses a longstanding issue where many MNCs and start-ups were entangled in legal battles over the taxability of these stock options. The GST Council’s recommendations have led the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) to issue a detailed circular, elucidating the new provisions.

    The CBIC’s circular clarifies that no supply of service is deemed to occur between the foreign holding company and the domestic subsidiary when the foreign holding company issues ESOPs, ESPPs, or RSUs to the employees of the domestic subsidiary, provided the domestic subsidiary reimburses the foreign holding company on a cost-to-cost basis. However, if the foreign holding company charges an additional amount beyond the cost of the securities/shares, GST will be levied on this excess amount, payable by the domestic subsidiary on a reverse charge basis.

    This development is expected to end the disputes between the tax authorities and Indian subsidiaries of global firms. Ankit Joshi, Associate Partner at N.A. Shah Associates, noted that tax departments at both central and state levels had been issuing notices to Indian entities, demanding GST on the reimbursement of share costs to the foreign head office under the reverse charge mechanism. The new circular brings much-needed clarity and a favorable impact for MNCs and their Indian subsidiaries.

    Brijesh Kothary, Partner at Khaitan & Co, highlighted that the circular confirms the Indian subsidiary’s obligation under employment contracts to provide shares to employees, classifying the transaction as a transfer of securities, which is neither a supply of goods nor a supply of services under GST laws, thus exempt from GST.

    This clarification is expected to provide relief to companies that have been issued notices or have paid taxes during investigations, enabling them to seek relief by citing the circular.

  • CBIC Simplifies Valuation Norms for Foreign Supplies to Indian Subsidiaries

    In a significant move aimed at streamlining international business transactions, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) has unveiled new valuation norms concerning services provided by foreign companies to their Indian subsidiaries. These services can now be assessed at open market value, contingent upon the Indian subsidiary receiving full Input Tax Credit (ITC). This development is part of a broader initiative encapsulated in 16 recent circulars issued by the CBIC. One notable clarification pertains to the Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM), where the financial year in which the recipient issues the invoice will determine the time limit for availing ITC.

    Relief for Foreign Companies

    Foreign companies operating in India can breathe a sigh of relief following the CBIC’s latest circular. When a foreign company provides services to its Indian subsidiary, eligible for full ITC, the service’s value stated in the invoice by the domestic entity will be accepted as the open market value. In instances where no invoice is issued by the subsidiary, the value of such services will be considered Nil but still deemed to be the open market value.

    This approach mirrors the existing valuation mechanism for domestic companies with head offices in one state and branches in another. According to a previous circular, services supplied by a Head Office to its Branch Offices are valued based on the invoice amount, provided the recipient Branch Office is eligible for full ITC. If no invoice is issued, the value is considered Nil yet deemed the open market value.

    Consistency in Valuation Under CGST Rules

    The recent CBIC clarification aligns with Rule 28 of the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Rules, which governs the valuation of supplies between distinct or related entities, particularly when the recipient can claim full ITC. The CBIC emphasized that last year’s circular regarding Head Office and Branch Office transactions set a precedent that applies equally to transactions between distinct and related persons.

    In the context of importing services from a related foreign entity, the Indian recipient must pay the tax under the RCM. The Indian entity must issue a self-invoice and remit the tax on a reverse charge basis.

    ITC Time Limit Calculation Under RCM

    The Reverse Charge Mechanism is crucial for managing transactions between registered and unregistered entities, where the registered entity is liable for GST payment and eligible for ITC. According to the GST law, ITC can be claimed until September or November of the subsequent financial year. The CBIC clarified that for supplies received from unregistered suppliers under the RCM, where the recipient issues the invoice, the relevant financial year for ITC calculation is the year the recipient issues the invoice, provided taxes are paid.

    If the recipient issues the invoice post the supply period and pays the tax accordingly, interest on delayed tax payment is applicable. Additionally, the supplier may face penalties for issuing the invoice late.

    This structured and authoritative guidance from the CBIC aims to provide clarity and ensure compliance, significantly benefiting foreign companies and their Indian subsidiaries in navigating the complexities of tax regulations.

  • High Court Confirms: Dual Show Cause Notices Are Legal and Binding!

    In a landmark ruling, the High Court clarified the nuances of jurisdiction concerning the issuance of multiple show cause notices to an individual and their business entities. Imagine you’re an entrepreneur with multiple ventures, and one day, you receive not one, but two show cause notices. The bewilderment and concern are palpable. Can they really do this? You wonder.

    In this case, the petitioner argued vehemently against the issuance of a second notice by a different Commissionerate for their proprietorship concern, especially when an individual notice had already been served. It’s like receiving two speeding tickets from two different cops for the same drive. Fair or foul?

    The Court, however, dissected the situation with precision. They delved into the heart of the matter: jurisdiction. Picture this: your proprietorship is nestled in a specific Commissionerate’s domain, while you, as an individual, are subject to another’s oversight. The petitioner felt cornered, akin to being judged twice for the same act by different judges.

    The ruling was clear. The Court held that the jurisdiction of the Commissionerate where the proprietorship was situated was indeed valid. The previous individual notice did not invalidate the notice to the firm. This decision underscores a pivotal principle: the actions of a firm and an individual, though interconnected, can be independently scrutinized by the appropriate authorities.

    This revelation might seem daunting. You might ask, “Does this mean I’m perpetually under dual scrutiny?” Not exactly. The Court advised the petitioner to address the show cause notice issued to the firm, emphasizing that due process and proper jurisdiction must be respected.

    Think about it as navigating a maze with checkpoints. Each checkpoint (or Commissionerate) has its rules and domain. While it feels like double trouble, it’s more about ensuring every aspect of business operations adheres to regulatory frameworks.

    The High Court’s stance was firm—no grounds for interference were found, and the appeal was dismissed. This case serves as a crucial reminder: understanding the scope of jurisdiction and the separation of individual and business entity responsibilities is vital.

    Reflect on this scenario: running a business is like managing a multi-layered chessboard. Each piece, whether an individual or a firm, moves under specific rules and oversight. Navigating these rules with clarity can prevent the stress and confusion that often accompany regulatory compliance.

    In conclusion, this ruling sheds light on the intricate dance of jurisdiction in business operations. It urges entrepreneurs to stay informed and proactive, ensuring they address each notice with the due diligence it warrants. So, next time you’re entangled in legal intricacies, remember this case. It might just be the compass you need to navigate through the regulatory maze.

  • Material Recycling Association Pushes for GST Cut on Metal Waste to Propel Circular Economy

    Material Recycling Association seeks GST rate cut on metal waste to boost circular economy vector style.

    Ever felt the weight of a metal scrap in your hands and wondered about its journey? Imagine, for a moment, the immense potential these discarded pieces hold. Now, picture the labyrinthine maze of India’s fragmented scrap collection system. It’s a system riddled with complexities, where many, lost in the intricacies of GST, find themselves ensnared in non-compliance or, worse, tax evasion.

    Ashish Bansal, Director of the Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI), stands at the forefront of a crucial battle. His mission? To convince the Central Government and GST Council to lower the GST rate for metal scrap materials to a low single-digit or, ideally, make it nil.

    “Why should we, as a nation, burden an industry that holds the keys to our sustainable future?” Bansal asks, his voice tinged with passion. “A lower GST rate will not only enhance compliance but also significantly boost our revenues. Imagine the transformation as more players join the organized sector, adhering to norms and contributing to tax collections.”

    The current scenario is far from ideal. With the unorganized segment constituting 30-40% of the metal scrap recycling industry, the convoluted GST mechanism becomes a stumbling block. Compliance feels like deciphering an ancient, cryptic text, leading to widespread evasion.

    The MRAI’s proposal also includes a ‘reverse charge mechanism’. This shifts the tax liability to buyers or manufacturers, curbing fraudulent input tax credit claims by scrap dealers. It’s a strategic move, akin to playing a well-thought-out chess game where each step counters potential pitfalls.

    The government’s consideration of this plea marks a beacon of hope. Should they heed the call, the recycling industry could witness a renaissance. Scrap availability would improve, processes would streamline, and the sector would evolve into a more organized entity. This shift would not only bolster compliance but also elevate environmental responsibility, significantly reducing our ecological footprint.

    The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has already taken a step in this direction. They’ve mandated the use of recycled materials in battery production, setting ambitious targets for the coming years. By 2027-28, automotive and industrial batteries must contain 35% recycled materials, with an incremental increase to 40% by 2030-31. EV and portable batteries are also on a similar trajectory, starting with 5% recycled material in FY29 and increasing annually.

    India’s circular economy, still in its nascent stages, is gaining momentum. Stricter regulations and mounting environmental concerns are driving this shift. But, as Bansal aptly puts it, “We’re just scratching the surface.”

    The waste management industry in India is a sleeping giant. With only 30% of the 75% recyclable waste being processed, the potential is staggering. Projections suggest that the Indian recycling market, valued at $32.09 billion in 2023, could soar to $35.87 billion by 2028.

    Material Recycling Association seeks GST rate cut on metal waste to boost circular economy

    Reflecting on this, one can’t help but ask, “Isn’t it time we unlocked this potential?” The answer lies in policies that support and nurture the industry, transforming metal scrap from a symbol of waste to a beacon of sustainability.

    In this narrative of transformation, every piece of metal scrap holds a story of potential, waiting to be realized. And with the right policies, we can turn these stories into a testament to India’s commitment to a sustainable future.

  • The Magic of SIPs—Why Time in the Market Beats Timing the Market

    A week ago, I had an intriguing conversation with a recently retired friend. Let’s call him Raj. Raj had just stepped into the world of post-retirement investments and was eager, yet cautious, about navigating these uncharted waters. Our discussion eventually led us to the topic of systematic investment plans (SIPs).

    “Isn’t timing the market crucial?” Raj asked, his brow furrowed with concern. I smiled, recalling a lesson hard-learned through years of market observation. “Raj,” I began, “timing the market is like predicting the weather a month from now. It’s more art than science and often leads to frustration. What truly matters is time in the market.”

    This conversation unfolded just a day before a notable market dip. On June 3rd, we finalized his SIPs, blissfully unaware of the market’s imminent downturn. The next day, the Sensex plummeted, and while chaos ensued for some, Raj’s investments were processed at the day’s low NAV. A stroke of luck, perhaps, but it wasn’t the point of the story.

    The markets rebounded swiftly, and by now, Raj’s investments had surged by 8%. It was a quick win, but I reminded him that it was merely a chapter in a much longer story.

    “Raj,” I continued, “imagine if you had waited, hoping to invest at the perfect moment. You might have missed this opportunity altogether. SIPs are designed to smooth out these bumps. One month you get more units, another month fewer. Over time, it balances out.”

    I could see the gears turning in his mind, aligning with the wisdom of steady, disciplined investing. The allure of quick gains is tempting, but it’s the consistency that builds wealth.

    “Remember,” I said, “market fluctuations are a given. Those who stay patient and focused on their long-term goals are the ones who succeed.”

    I recalled the buzz on social media around the same time. Many investors were frustrated because their mutual fund transactions, placed on June 4th, didn’t get processed in time, and they missed out on the lower NAV. It was a reminder of the many moving parts involved – the front-end apps, banks, clearing houses, registrars, and funds. The timing game is a risky endeavor.

    Reflecting on these events, I realized they underscored a vital truth: the essence of SIPs lies in their ability to mitigate market unpredictability. Raj’s short-term gain was a pleasant surprise, but it was not the essence of his investment journey. The real victory was in his commitment to a 24-month SIP plan, regardless of market whims.

    “Raj,” I concluded, “the beauty of SIPs is in their simplicity and effectiveness. It’s not about making a fortune overnight but about steadily building wealth over time. Each day’s market fluctuation is a small piece of a much larger puzzle.”

    In the world of investing, patience isn’t just a virtue; it’s a strategy. The disciplined investor, who stays the course through market highs and lows, is the one who reaps the most substantial rewards. So, instead of trying to time the market, focus on time in the market. That’s where the real magic happens.

  • Karnataka’s Bold Push—MB Patil Courts Japanese Giants for Game Changing Investments

    Imagine being in the heart of Japan, surrounded by the buzz of a high-stakes meeting where the future of investment and innovation is at stake. This was the scene as Karnataka’s Honourable Minister for Large, Medium Industries, and Infrastructure Development, MB Patil, led a high-level delegation on a mission to attract global companies to invest in Karnataka, India.

    Setting the Stage: The First Day of the Tour

    The delegation, comprising key figures such as Selvakumar S, IAS, Principal Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Industries, and Gunjan Krishna, IAS, Commissioner for Industrial Development and Director, Department of Commerce and Industries, dove into discussions with representatives from Nissin Foods and Hitachi. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and the promise of new beginnings.

    “Can you imagine Bangalore as a hub for Nissin’s expansion?” MB Patil asked Ryota Kawawa, General Manager of Nissin’s Corporate Management Division. The idea of Bangalore, known for its thriving tech scene and strategic location, becoming a central point for Nissin’s growth both domestically and internationally was compelling. Patil’s vision was clear—using food parks in Dharwad and Bijapur to complete the food processing value chain, positioning Karnataka as a leader in this sector.

    A Conversation with Hitachi

    Next, Patil engaged with Hitachi’s top brass, including Bharat Kaushal, Managing Director of Hitachi India. The conversation flowed easily, touching on advanced topics like AI-driven systems to optimize power grids and rail networks, predictive maintenance, and even the futuristic potential of quantum computing.

    “Do you see the transformative potential of quantum computing for energy efficiency?” Patil’s question hung in the air, sparking excitement. Hitachi’s recent expansions in India, such as two new factories outside Bengaluru, underscored their commitment to this dynamic partnership. The dialogue was not just about business but about building a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand.

    The Electric Future with Nissan

    In another key meeting, MB Patil met with Joji Tagawa, Nissan’s Senior Vice President, and Frank Torres, President of Nissan India. The focus was on the electrifying future of mobility—literally. They discussed the ambitious ‘Nissan Ambition 2030’ vision, which aims to expand electric mobility and make Karnataka a hub for electric vehicle (EV) exports.

    Why not make Karnataka the epicenter of your EV operations?” Patil proposed, highlighting the state’s robust R&D ecosystem and attractive incentives for EV strategies. Tumkuru, along the CBIC corridor, was identified as an ideal site for Nissan’s EV cluster due to its strategic location near major metro cities.

    Reflecting on the Journey

    The delegation’s tour of Japan was more than just a series of meetings; it was a journey toward a shared future. The conversations revealed a significant shift towards digital services in India, particularly in financial services, and the importance of leveraging global expertise and innovation to drive economic growth.

    This visit was not just about attracting investments but also about forging long-term partnerships that can transform industries and improve lives. The commitment from global companies like Nissin, Hitachi, and Nissan to explore opportunities in Karnataka is a testament to the state’s growing significance on the global stage.

    Conclusion: A Vision for the Future

    As the delegation wrapped up its tour, the vision was clear. Karnataka is poised to become a hub for innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. The state’s proactive approach, combined with its strong infrastructure and strategic location, makes it an attractive destination for global investments.

    This mission to Japan was a step towards a brighter, more connected future, where the boundaries of technology and business are continually pushed, and where Karnataka stands at the forefront of this exciting journey.

  • Unraveling GST Mysteries—CBIC’s Game-Changing Clarification on Corporate Guarantees

    Imagine you’re in the heart of a bustling financial district, where every decision is as intricate as a finely woven tapestry. In this dynamic landscape, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) emerges as the clarion call for clarity, set to unveil detailed insights on the GST applicability for corporate guarantees. This upcoming clarification promises to untangle the web of complexities surrounding related-party loans from banks or financial institutions, shedding light on crucial aspects like distribution of liability and valuation rules.

    The recent recommendation by the GST Council has set the stage for a transformative shift in how we perceive and navigate GST implications. Picture this: a draft circular brimming with insights, recommended amendments, and a renewed focus on addressing long-standing ambiguities. One such amendment, proposed for Rule 28(2) of the CGST Rules, aims to retroactively realign valuation norms, setting a precedent from October 26, 2023, onwards.

    Delving deeper into the intricacies, let’s explore the essence of this forthcoming circular. It’s not merely a document; it’s a roadmap for businesses, a beacon of clarity amidst the fog of uncertainty. One of its pivotal highlights is the delineation of GST liability in scenarios involving multiple guarantors. Here, the circular proposes a formulaic approach, ensuring equitable distribution of tax responsibility among related entities.

    Now, let’s pivot to a scenario where a domestic entity extends an inter-corporate guarantee. The mechanism of GST payment follows a forward charge paradigm, where the onus rests on the supplier to pay and subsequently claim Input Tax Credit (ITC). Contrastingly, when a foreign entity steps into the guarantor’s shoes, the reverse charge mechanism takes center stage, necessitating the domestic recipient to shoulder the GST burden.

    Saurabh Agarwal, a seasoned Tax Partner with EY, paints a vivid picture of CBIC’s initiative to streamline valuation practices. By prescribing a deemed value based on 1 per cent of the guaranteed amount or the actual consideration charged, the Council aims to harmonize valuation methodologies and bolster GST compliance. However, nuances persist, especially concerning valuations in related-party contexts.

    In sync with industry voices, the Council’s clarification exempts certain scenarios from Rule 28(2)’s valuation rule, notably in cases of service export or full input tax credit eligibility. This proactive step heralds a new era of tax certainty, providing businesses with a compass to navigate the labyrinthine landscape of corporate guarantees under GST.

    Gunjan Prabhakaran, a Partner with BDO India, echoes the sentiment of relief among businesses following the retrospective amendment. This move not only eases compliance burdens but also unlocks liquidity, offering a reprieve to sectors grappling with input tax credit constraints.

    Reflecting on the journey thus far, the GST Council’s progressive stance underscores its commitment to fostering a conducive environment for businesses. As we await CBIC’s detailed circular, the narrative of GST applicability on corporate guarantees evolves into a tale of resilience, adaptation, and proactive collaboration between policymakers and industry stakeholders.

    In conclusion, the impending clarification from CBIC heralds a new dawn of clarity and cohesion, steering businesses towards informed decision-making and regulatory compliance in the ever-evolving realm of GST dynamics.