goods and service tax
The Government of India's recent deliberations focus on exempting GST for health and life insurance premiums. This initiative aims to enhance affordability for middle and lower-income groups, reflecting the government’s commitment to increasing insurance penetration.
GST rates and exemptions are determined by the GST Council, which is a constitutional authority. As of April 28, 2025, there has been no final decision on implementing any GST exemption or reduction. Although the Group of Ministers (GoM) has put forth recommendations for certain exemptions and rate reductions, these have yet to receive approval from the GST Council.
Several government-sponsored insurance schemes aimed at economically vulnerable sections are exempt from GST. Notable examples include:
These initiatives have enabled millions of individuals to access insurance services. As of now, more than 36.5 crore Ayushman cards have been issued under PM-JAY, while enrollment in Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana exceeds 20 crore. The government is currently reviewing these policies to balance affordability with revenue generation.
Experts and officials warn that a full GST exemption could inadvertently raise insurance costs, as insurers would lose the benefit of the input tax credit. This loss may translate into higher premiums for consumers. Conversely, a reduced GST rate, such as 5%, while retaining ITC, is viewed as a more beneficial option for consumers.
The GST Council, comprising members from both Union and State/UT Governments, determines GST rates and exemptions. The application of GST on health and life insurance was discussed at the GST Council's 54th Meeting on September 9, 2024. Following comprehensive discussions, the Council recommended forming a Group of Ministers (GoM) to conduct an in-depth evaluation of the GST issues associated with life and health insurance.
GST paid on health insurance premiums is deductible under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act (under the old tax regime), along with the premium itself.
During the 55th GST Council meeting, held on December 21, 2024, the GoM convenor requested additional time to finalize recommendations for the GST Council, which was granted.
Numerous health insurance policies designed for economically weaker sections and individuals with disabilities, such as Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY), and the Universal Health Insurance Scheme benefit from GST exemptions. Collectively, these initiatives enable millions to access essential insurance services. Furthermore, life insurance policies, including the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana, are also exempt from GST, together encompassing over 20 crore individuals.
These insurance programs primarily target economically disadvantaged populations.
The Government of India is making substantial efforts to improve the affordability of health and life insurance for economically weaker sections. Ongoing discussions and assessments aim to optimize GST policies, ensuring that these initiatives make insurance services more accessible to a broader audience.