Government's Strategic Move: GST Exemptions on Essential Medical Supplies
Medical Oxygen and Life-Saving Drugs (Sl. No. 1 to 5):
Exemption from excess integrated tax for medical-grade oxygen and crucial drugs like Tocilizumab, Amphotericin B, Remdesvir, and Heparin, ensuring accessibility during the ongoing healthcare crisis.
Covid-19 Testing and Diagnostic Kits (Sl. No. 6 and 7):
In a bid to boost testing, exemption granted for Covid-19 testing kits and inflammatory diagnostic kits (IL6, D-Dimer, CRP, LDH, Ferritin, Pro Calcitonin), streamlining the diagnostics process.
Health and Safety Equipment (Sl. No. 8 to 13):
Essential health and safety items like hand sanitizers, helmets for non-invasive ventilation, pulse oximeters, high-flow nasal canula devices, oxygen concentrators, ventilators, and BiPAP machines now exempt from excess integrated tax.
Non-Invasive Ventilation Accessories (Sl. No. 14 and 16):
Exemption extended to non-invasive ventilation accessories, including masks for ICU ventilators and canula for ventilators, facilitating comprehensive and affordable care.
Temperature Check and Ambulances (Sl. No. 17 and 18):
Temperature check equipment and ambulances also covered under the exemption, emphasizing the significance of prompt response and accurate monitoring.
Effective Period:
The notification, effective until September 30, 2021, reflects the government's commitment to easing the financial burden on healthcare providers and ensuring uninterrupted access to critical medical supplies.
Government’s Response to Public Interest:
This move, based on Council recommendations, showcases the government's proactive measures to support public health during challenging times, aligning tax policies with the urgent need for essential medical resources.