Challenges and Opportunities in Implementation of GST Bill for Insurance Sector in India

Abstract

The Indian economy is witnessing streamlined and focused efforts, of the kind off late for the implementation of the Goods and Service Tax (GST). With the services sector accounting for 60% of the GDP, the impact of GST on the service sector is likely to run deep. GST is undisputedly the single largest indirect tax reform since independence. It has the ability to change India's indirect taxation landscape and resulting in a positive impact on the entire economy. The present study is an attempt to understand the impact of GST on Insurance Industry along with highlighting the basic concept of GST, models of GST and its pros and cons in Indian context. The study also highlights the challenges in implementing the system. The introduction of GST will have a definitive impact on services offered by the life insurance sector. Seeking to levy GST on life insurance services would be in contrast to several countries where life insurance is a social security benefit being provided. Given the strategic importance of life insurance sector and the vast untapped market, it is believed that Government will address the concerns of the industry including ensuring merit rate of GST on insurance sector.