A STUDY ON IMPACT OF GST ON THE HOUSEHOLD EXPENSES OF MIDDLE-CLASS FAMILY

The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India was a landmark reform aimed at  simplifying the indirect tax structure and promoting a unified market. While it brought  transparency and reduced tax cascading, its effects on household expenses, spanning various  income groups, remain a subject of critical analysis. This study investigates how GST has  influenced household spending patterns across essential and discretionary categories such as  groceries, healthcare, education, utilities, and discretionary spending. Drawing insights from  primary data collected via surveys and secondary data from credible sources, the research provides  a comprehensive understanding of GST’s socio-economic impact. Key findings highlight changes  in financial burdens, shifts in consumer behavior, and varied impacts on household savings. The  analysis incorporates perspectives from reviewed literature, including challenges such as limited  public awareness, perceptions of fairness, and the need for reforms. This study contributes to the  discourse on tax policy, offering insights into GST’s implications for economic equity, consumer  behavior, and financial well-being