International Road Federation has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the GST Council to consider a substantial reduction or complete exemption of GST on critical life-saving products and services, including helmets, ambulances and essential medical equipment.
In a communication addressed to the Prime Minister, K. K. Kapila welcomed the government’s ongoing efforts towards GST rationalisation and public welfare initiatives. However, he pointed out that several essential safety and healthcare products continue to attract relatively high GST rates, increasing the financial burden on common citizens.
The IRF emphasised that lowering or eliminating GST on such life-saving devices could improve affordability, encourage wider adoption of safety equipment like helmets and enhance access to emergency healthcare services and medical infrastructure across the country.
“The helmets, which currently attract 18% GST, are mandatory safety equipment for two-wheeler riders and play a crucial role in saving lives on Indian roads. Similarly, ambulances and critical medical devices such as oxygen concentrators, monitors, wheelchairs, implants, and other emergency healthcare equipment remain heavily taxed despite being indispensable for healthcare delivery and emergency response.” Said Mr Kapila.
“India suffers significant economic losses annually due to road accidents and healthcare-related financial distress. According to the Federation, reducing GST on these essential items would improve accessibility and affordability, encourage greater compliance with road safety measures, strengthen emergency healthcare systems, and ultimately save countless lives.” Said Mr Kapila.
The Federation has requested the Government to consider complete exemption or substantial reduction of GST on helmets for two-wheeler riders. Reduction of GST on ambulances and emergency medical transport services and reduction of GST on essential and life-saving medical devices and equipment.
Speaking on the issue, Mr. Kapila stated that helmets are not luxury products but critical protective equipment necessary for safeguarding human life. He added that ambulances serve as mobile lifelines during emergencies, while medical devices are essential for patients, hospitals, and healthcare providers across the country.
The IRF expressed confidence that such a humane and visionary policy decision would greatly benefit millions of citizens and further strengthen the Government’s commitment towards road safety, affordable healthcare, and public welfare.
