Gujarat tobacco farmers protest VAT

Anand, Gujarat, Apr 7 (UNI) Tobacco growers in the state today held a meeting, to protest introduction of 12 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on their produce.

Over 10,000 farmers from across the state gathered here to express their resentment over the introduction of VAT on tobacco by the Narendra Modi government.

Gujarat Tobacco Merchant Association (GTMA) President Bhikhubhai N Patel, while addressing the gathering, demanded immediate withdrawal of VAT on tobacco.

Mr Patel said the tax will spell the death knell for farmers since their land was not suitable for taking any other crop.

The GTMA proposes to submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister in this regard.

UNI