SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being | SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
Institutions: Government of Haryana | Ministry of Finance
The Haryana government issued a series of major announcements spanning tax reforms, health governance, cultural heritage, and social service.
GST Reforms: Multiple ministers highlighted the nationwide Next Generation GST Reforms as a “festive gift” for citizens. Rates have been streamlined from four slabs to two (5% and 18%), with 99% of daily-use items now taxed at 5% or less. Specific reductions include tractors and parts (down to 5–18%), packet milk, paneer, roti, paratha (zero-rated), ghee, butter, dry fruits (12%→5%), cement (28%→18%), and small cars (28%→18%). Insurance premiums are now GST-free. Haryana’s ministers stressed that these reforms lower consumer costs, aid farmers, boost MSMEs, and support sectors like textiles, food processing, and housing.
Health and Governance: The Additional Chief Secretary for Health warned district Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) of strict action for negligence in improving the sex ratio, which has only modestly improved from 904 to 907 (Jan–Sept). The state committed to strengthening monitoring, taking disciplinary action against errant officials, and intensifying the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign.
Cultural Heritage: Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini reviewed plans for the Sikh Museum and Sant Shiromani Guru Ravidas Museum in Kurukshetra. DPR preparation is to be expedited, with provision for solar panels and modern displays of Sikh history, philosophy, and social harmony.
Social Initiatives: On Haryana Veer Shaheedi Diwas, tributes were paid to freedom fighter Rao Tula Ram. Ex-gratia for martyrs and Agniveers has been raised to ₹1 crore, with 418 dependents given government appointments since 2014. At a Sewa Pakhwada event, the Vidhan Sabha Speaker stressed politics as public service, citing direct transfers and anti-corruption gains.
These announcements show Haryana aligning state initiatives with national reforms: GST restructuring links to Atmanirbhar Bharat and MSME competitiveness, while health directives reinforce accountability in social sector governance. Cultural projects like museums strengthen heritage-based identity politics, and ex-gratia measures bolster military welfare. Together, they reflect how fiscal reforms, governance monitoring, and cultural investments are being integrated into Haryana’s developmental strategy.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can Haryana ensure that tax relief from GST reforms translates into long-term competitiveness for farmers, MSMEs, and households, while simultaneously addressing structural gaps in health and social equity?
Follow the full news here: Press Note – Government of Haryana