Assam goldsmiths seek reduction of GST on ornaments to 2%

Guwahati: Over five lakh goldsmiths, who are members of the Nikhil Assam Swarna Silpi Samiti, have urged Assam govt to introduce special welfare measures for the community, claiming that the artisans are facing economic hardship due to a sharp decline in the production and sale of handcrafted gold ornaments.In a statement issued by the organisation, it urged the immediate intervention of CM Himanta Biswa Sarma to address the series of challenges that they are facing.It also called for a reduction in goods and services tax on gold ornaments from the existing rate to 2%, stating that lower taxation would help small goldsmiths remain competitive and support the sector’s revival.“We also want the govt to introduce numerous health schemes for the goldsmiths affected by this downturn, so that the standard of living and the social security of the artisans can improve,” he also said.Additionally, the Samiti urged the govt to ensure that goldsmiths are included as beneficiaries in more incentives and assistance programmes that are meant for the state’s gold industry.“After PM Narendra Modi urged people to put a pause on buying gold due to the conflict happening in West Asia, this has adversely impacted us. This appeal has led to lower demand, leaving several goldsmiths out of business and under financial strain,” said the president of the organisation, Parimal Sarkar.

The jewellery shops in the city’s Lakhtokia market claim that low sales have brought production to a halt, affecting the livelihoods of goldsmiths and sellers.“We respect the PM’s decision, but it has impacted only our business, whereas the big jewellery showrooms are still making sales, continuing to attract customers, leaving traditional goldsmiths struggling to find work,” said Sajid Alam Choudhury, the owner of a jewellery store and a member of the organisation.