GST reforms to propel eco growth in Manipur

New Delhi: The GST rate cuts aimed at driving inclusive growth will provide a big push to Manipur's economy, rooted in small-scale industries, traditional crafts, and agro-based livelihoods, according to an official statement issued on Friday.

From coffee cultivation in the highlands of Ukhrul and Senapati to bamboo crafts and stone carving in Churachandpur and Imphal, the state's diverse economic activities are driven largely by regional communities.

By lowering input costs and encouraging demand, the GST rate cuts to a mere 5 per cent, aim to make Manipur's unique products more competitive in both domestic and global markets.

The reduction in GST on packaged coffee from 18 per cent to 5 per cent brings substantial relief across Manipur's coffee industry. Districts such as Ukhrul, Senapati, and Chandel are important hubs for coffee cultivation, particularly for high-quality Arabica varieties. Around 10,000 farmers are engaged in coffee cultivation. The sector generates additional employment in processing, packaging, and distribution networks that support the value chain. The reforms are expected to boost profitability and strengthen competitiveness across domestic and export markets.

Manipur's bamboo and cane crafts are traditionally made by skilled communities in Churachandpur, Ukhrul, and Tamenglong. With approximately 1.2 lakh artisans, the sector provides supplementary income to rural households.

The reduction of GST from 12 per cent to 5 per cent on furniture, baskets, mats, and other wooden crafts, will directly lower product prices and stimulate demand in both urban and rural markets.