Overview of GST:

• Explanation of what GST is and how it functions.
• History and evolution of GST in various countries, with a focus on India.
• Benefits of GST for businesses, government, and consumers.
• Types of GST (CGST, SGST, IGST) and their applications.

2. GST Implementation in India:

• The process of GST implementation in India, starting from July 1, 2017.
• The role of GST Council in decision-making.
• Challenges faced during the rollout, including technical issues and compliance burdens.
• Key amendments and updates to the GST laws since its introduction.

3. GST and its Impact on Various Sectors:

• Manufacturing: How GST has impacted the manufacturing sector, including the reduction in cascading taxes and better tax credits.
• Retail: Effects of GST on the retail industry and how it streamlined supply chains and reduced tax-related complications.
• Services: The impact of GST on service-based industries, with a focus on sectors like IT, hospitality, and education.
• Real Estate: Changes in tax treatment for the real estate sector, including new compliance procedures.
• Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): GST’s implications on SMEs, including the threshold limits for GST registration and special provisions like the Composition Scheme.

4. GST Compliance and Filing:

• GST registration process and necessary documents.
• Types of GST returns (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, etc.) and filing frequency.
• GST audit and annual returns, including the process and key deadlines.
• The role of GSTN (Goods and Services Tax Network) in facilitating compliance and return filing.
• The concept of Input Tax Credit (ITC) and how businesses can claim ITC to avoid double taxation.

5. GST and E-Commerce:

• Special GST provisions for e-commerce businesses.
• Compliance requirements for e-commerce operators, including TCS (Tax Collected at Source).
• Taxation of digital goods and services under GST.

6. GST Amendments and Reforms:

• Discussion of significant changes in GST law (e.g., reduction of tax rates on certain goods or services, changes in the exemption list).
• The introduction of e-invoicing, QR codes, and other digitization measures to streamline GST operations.
• Measures to curb GST evasion, including the introduction of GST-linked e-way bills for interstate transport.

7. International Perspectives on GST:

• Comparison of India’s GST system with other countries like Canada, Australia, and the European Union.
• Benefits and drawbacks of implementing GST in various regions.
• Challenges faced by countries in harmonizing indirect taxes under GST.

8. Challenges and Criticisms of GST:

• Initial hurdles in implementation, including technical glitches, awareness issues, and resistance from certain sectors.
• Criticisms regarding the complexity of the tax system and the compliance burden on small businesses.
• Suggestions for improving the GST structure, such as simplifying return filing processes or reducing the number of tax slabs.

9. GST and State Governments:

• How GST affects state revenues and the GST compensation mechanism.
• Disputes between states and the central government regarding the division of GST revenue.
• The role of the Finance Commission in addressing GST-related concerns at the state level.

10. Future of GST:

• Anticipated reforms in the GST system, including potential changes in tax slabs, exemption lists, and compliance procedures.
• The role of technology, such as AI and blockchain, in enhancing GST administration.
• How GST might evolve with the changing global economy and technological advancements.