Kerala's Lottery Dilemma: The GST Impact
Kerala Finance Minister K N Balagopal met with trade union leaders to address concerns regarding the imposition of a 40% GST on state-run paper lotteries, previously vital for many livelihoods. The state's plea for exemption from this tax was rejected, prompting exploration of alternative relief measures.
Devdiscourse News Desk | Thiruvananthapuram | Updated: 10-09-2025 19:35 IST | Created: 10-09-2025 19:35 IST
- Country:
- India
Kerala's Finance Minister, K N Balagopal, engaged in discussions with trade union leaders concerning the recent hike in GST rates on state-run paper lotteries.
The higher 40 percent GST slab, aligning these lotteries with gambling and casinos, has ignited concerns among over 200,000 agents and sellers who depend on lottery sales for their livelihoods.
The state government sought an exemption, claiming lotteries differ from gambling, but faced rejection. Now, alternatives to mitigate impacts are under exploration, amid fears of reduced ticket sales and economic uncertainties.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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