News

Health & national security cess only on demerit goods like pan masala, not essentials, says Nirmala Sitharaman

A new health and national security cess will be imposed on demerit goods like pan masala. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated this cess will not affect essential commodities. The collected revenue will create a dedicated fund for health and national security. This move aims to deter consumption of certain products. The bill has received parliamentary approval.