How Will the Higher RBI Dividend Transfer Cushion GST Revenue Shortfall?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- GST rationalisation is projected to create a 0.1% GDP shortfall.
- Higher RBI dividend transfers are expected to mitigate this shortfall.
- Private consumption may see a boost, aiding in inflation control.
- The upcoming CPI series will play a crucial role in understanding the impact of GST changes.
- States with higher GST reliance could face significant financial implications.
New Delhi, Sep 5 (NationPress) A report indicates that the net revenue shortfall resulting from GST rationalisation is projected to be 0.1% of GDP for the current fiscal year. This shortfall is expected to be mitigated by an increase in RBI dividend transfers. The report emphasizes that GST rationalisation is a crucial and timely measure aimed at bolstering economic momentum, especially in light of ongoing external challenges.
By enhancing disposable income, this move is anticipated to invigorate private consumption and alleviate inflationary pressures.
According to the CareEdge Ratings report, "We believe that GST rationalisation could potentially decrease CPI inflation by 70-90 basis points annually based on the current CPI basket, assuming that the cost reductions are passed on to consumers."
Moreover, the upcoming launch of the new CPI series with a base year of 2024 is an important factor to monitor, as it may affect the anticipated outcomes of the GST reforms.
The report underscores that a sustained rebound in private consumption is vital—not only for rejuvenating the private capital expenditure cycle but also for supporting export-driven sectors that may face challenges due to ongoing trade disputes.
The government projects an annual shortfall of Rs 48,000 crore attributed to GST rationalisation.
“With specific assumptions, we estimate the annual net revenue loss due to changes in GST rates to be around 0.4% of GDP at the general government level,” the report states.
“While GST rationalisation may entail some revenue losses, it is also anticipated to enhance tax collection growth. As these changes are set to commence in September, the estimated effect for the current fiscal year is about 0.1% of GDP for both the Centre and states,” the report indicates.
The financial impact on states is expected to be somewhat greater, reflecting shifts in state GST collections and transfers from the Centre’s divisible tax pool. States like Bihar, Maharashtra, Haryana, and West Bengal are projected to experience a higher proportion of GST in their tax revenues.
On the spending side, the government has accelerated capital expenditure, achieving 31% of its annual budgeted target compared to 23.5% during the same period last year.