SHILLONG: The state government has hinted that there will be no reduction in the value added tax, or VAT, as far as petrol is concerned even as spiralling fuel prices continue to burn a hole in consumers’ pocket.
Talking to media persons here on Wednesday, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said petrol price is linked to the market and there is no direct subsidy from the Union Government.
Though the state VAT can be adjusted, the tax on petrol in Meghalaya is less than in other neighbouring states, he pointed out.
“The state government is under financial pressure and it may not be advisable to look into this aspect now,” he said while informing that he will convene a two-day meeting on Thursday and Friday with revenue generating departments like Forest, Excise, Taxation, Transport and Mining to discuss on how to increase the revenue.
