Air purifier sales have increased fivefold due to pollution, prompting calls for a GST reduction from the Finance Minister.

Desk: Air pollution is plaguing people. People are dealing with respiratory illnesses and numerous other problems, but even in this time of crisis, a certain segment of society is benefiting greatly. Due to the worsening pollution situation, air purifier sales have increased fivefold. People are installing air purifiers in their homes and offices to get clean air. This is driving a significant increase in sales.

Air purifiers from various companies are available in the market for approximately ₹8,000 to ₹25,000-₹30,000, depending on their capacity. People also have to pay an 18% GST on them. Traders are demanding that, given the utility of air purifiers amid this severe pollution, they should be classified as essential goods and the GST rate on them should be reduced from 18% to 5%. This will provide access to clean air at a relatively low cost to vulnerable sections of society.

Traders have written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, demanding reduction in GST rates on air purifiers and HEPA filters from 18% to 5%.