Now, we are ONE by Shristi Nangalia

“I am not satisfied with this reformation. It is nothing but a big gamble. ”

“This government just wants to make quick decisions to show off to the western countries. How we will deal with it? Nobody cares.”

I was overhearing the conversation between two young men suited up with briefcases at the breakfast stall, while I waited for my parcel to get ready.   

“Dealing with it is a different game altogether. Is it even possible to implement? It is confusing and totally misguiding.”

“Right, these people sit in their offices and kick our bums on a regular basis. First demonetization, then this...”

‘This? What this? What is going on?’ .....I had no clue back then.

“It will only push inflation and hurt the poor and marginal middle class... like us.”

“Correct, this tax system is only for the benefit the government, not the common man!”

‘There is a new tax system coming in? There is an increase in taxes? Shit.. I already am running short of expenses... what is happening! I will have to...’

I was already lost in thoughts when the tea maker yelled- “Sir, here is your parcel... 58 rupees.”

I gave him the money, thinking this might rise to 60 rupees very soon... or more?!

I almost forgot about their conversation amidst the weekly Saturday rush in my puja supplies store. It was late in the evening that my uncle and consistent customer, Sunil Baba visited the store-

“Gagan, make my regular packet... and add two extra agarbatti packets for my home.”

“Sure, Baba.” I said and started packing his items.

 “So, have you planned your inventory for the next year?” he asked with a smirk.

“Why now, Baba? I always do this in December.” I stopped and stared at him. He had always helped me in my business decisions and had been a constant support to me in financial matters. But, this sudden question quizzed me.

 “Let me come back from the temple, we can sit after you have closed the shop.” he took his things and left hurriedly.

It was time for the temple to close and I was sitting idle, looking at the locals passing by. Baba took longer than he usually does. But he was just there when I was about to put down the shutters.

“Tell me, Baba. Why were you asking me about the inventory?”

“Things are changing... there is this big alteration coming up. Don’t you want to be prepared for it?” he asked, while he sat down facing me.

I was totally judging myself at that moment. I wished I was more updated with the news. “What change? Those office guys in the morning, they were also talking about it. Are the taxes rising?”

“Haha! Rising? Who said so? This reform is nothing but a big milestone in crafting a better internal system for managing the revenue of our country.”

“A better system? How? What is it about?”

“GST, Goods and Services Tax will replace the multiple taxes that the central and state government impose on us. It is expected to bring down the cost of running most households. Most products in your shop become tax exempted. Many food, entertainment and personal care items will see a big reduction in the implied tax. Wouldn’t it be better?”

“I had no idea about it. I only heard ill from others.” I said with a saddening face.

“There will always be two sides of the coin. But what we should be happy about is that we own the coin. Yes, the communication and transport industry will be affected otherwise. There will be a hike in the rates of medicines and telecom services.” He explained in a calm tone.

“It is okay, right? I mean, it will directly boost our country’s economy. And it will improve our developmental process.. which we all are looking forward to ultimately, aren’t we? But which taxes is this tax replacing?”

“Almost all of them! More than 15 taxes. Just name it- VAT, CST, Service Tax, Customs... GST covers them all.”

“Woah, I had never wondered if India could opt for this one-tax system! ... That means, instead of maintaining complicated records under the different sectors, all will be filed under one GST rule. And easier transactions... So, now my manufacturers or traders do not have to include taxes as a part of their cost of acquisition and production? Wow, nice.. It was always a mess, making the bus guy understand that the bill includes the transportation charges. Now I buy cheaper and sell cheaper! And, and... now I do not have to fill the boring long forms while dispatching goods to a different place!?” I was full of answers...rather than questions.

“Haha... yes, the paperwork becomes much simpler now.” he accepted.

“Wow. So why is there a fuss around?”

“Not all sectors are benefitted through this scheme. There will be a sudden decline in sales in a few sectors. The stock market and share market will be affected. Some people are creating havoc out of media-modified news. But after all, it is for the long term betterment. People are only looking at the odds. The opposition is not supporting. There will be a few hurdles too, but for me, this system unites our revenues.. and us.”

“Yeah.. It will take time to normalise the scenario. I think it is a great step and India needed it. Being such a messed up system, they are taking it forward and making it happen... great!” I was almost jumping.

“Exactly. India will gain prominence over the global market too. We are inching towards becoming a manufacturing hub. More investments, more employment and more income! Many countries are praising this long delayed initiative.”

“Obviously...” I smiled.

“So now you get it?” asked Baba, laughing.

“Hehe! Yes, thank you Baba! But why were you asking me to plan my inventory, now that things are getting simpler?”

“That was sarcasm, my dear! Who would know that the biggest news of the year couldn’t trespass your reserved world?”

“Oh... Hehe... Let us celebrate, Baba. Come over.”

“Sure, to a developing India!”

“Yay, to a corruption-less India!”

“To a better India.”