<h1>GST cuts to 5% on essentials and lower dairy rates to boost affordability, rural demand, MSMEs, and jobs</h1> Companies in the FMCG sector welcomed the government's GST rate reductions on several items, including a cut from 18% to 5% on daily essentials and reduced rates for a wide range of dairy products, saying the move will enhance affordability, spur consumption-particularly in rural markets-benefit MSMEs and farmers, and support investment and job creation. Industry executives signaled intent to pass tax savings to consumers, anticipate stronger demand across segments, and described the measures as part of a broader tax rationalisation expected to stimulate economic growth.