In the wake of the 56th GST Council meeting, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued a series of notifications updating Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) rules and rates. Notifications numbered 13/2015-Central Tax, 14/2025-Central Tax, 15/2025-Central Tax, 16/2025-Central Tax, 9/2025-Central Tax (Rate), 10/2025-Central Tax (Rate), 11/2025-Central Tax (Rate), 12/2025-Central Tax (Rate), 13/2025-Central Tax (Rate), 14/2025-Central Tax (Rate), 15/2025-Central Tax (Rate), 16/2025-Central Tax (Rate), and 17/2025-Central Tax (Rate), all dated September 17, 2025, have been released by CBIC.
Following these notifications, it has been observed that several businesses in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are not adhering to the recent GST changes. Reports indicate that some businesses are failing to pass the benefits of the revised GST rates on to their customers, leading to concerns over compliance and fair trade practices.
In response, the GST Department has launched a compliance drive across the Union Territory, targeting businesses that do not follow the updated GST regulations. The initiative aims to ensure that all enterprises implement the changes correctly and that consumers receive the intended benefits.
Businesses in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands have been formally informed that adherence to the GST rules and regulations is mandatory. Those found violating the provisions, including not passing on rate benefits to customers, will be penalised according to the GST framework. The drive underscores the importance of strict compliance and transparency in taxation processes within the Union Territory.
Residents and business owners have been provided with a channel to report grievances or seek clarifications related to GST rates and their implementation. Individuals can lodge complaints or request information via the designated WhatsApp number, 9595359698. This facility aims to improve communication between the GST authorities and the local business community, ensuring timely resolution of compliance issues.
The compliance drive is part of a broader effort by the GST Department to maintain uniformity in tax implementation and uphold the integrity of the Goods and Services Tax system across India’s Union Territories. By monitoring adherence and penalising non-compliant businesses, authorities aim to protect consumer interests and strengthen transparency in commercial transactions.
The GST Department has reiterated its commitment to providing clear guidance and support to businesses while strictly enforcing the rules, ensuring that all stakeholders in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands benefit from the recent tax reforms.
