October GST Collection Hits Rs 1.96 Lakh Crore Despite Rate Cuts
New Delhi, Nov 1: India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection for October 2025 surged to Rs 1.96 lakh crore, marking a 4.6% year-on-year increase despite recent rate reductions on hundreds of consumer items. The uptick is attributed to robust festive season demand, particularly during Navratri and Diwali.
According to official data released Saturday, the October 2025 GST haul surpassed last year’s Rs 1.87 lakh crore. The breakdown includes Rs 36,547 crore from CGST, Rs 45,134 crore from SGST, Rs 1,06,443 crore from IGST, and Rs 7,812 crore from cess.
The rate cuts, effective from September 22, applied to 375 items, including food, electronics, and automobiles.
The timing aligned with Navratri, traditionally considered auspicious for purchases, prompting consumers to delay buying until the revised rates took effect.
In a parallel move to ease compliance, the government rolled out a simplified GST registration system starting November 1. Businesses can now secure registration approval within three days.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the initiative last week, aimed at supporting small and medium enterprises.
The October figures reflect strong consumer sentiment and strategic policy timing, reinforcing GST’s role as a barometer of economic activity.
