A STUDY ON THE GST IMPACT ON SMALL BUSINESSES IN TELANGANA

The study concludes that the Goods and Services Tax has generally produced a positive transformation in the tax environment of small businesses in Telangana. GST has simplified the indirect tax structure, encouraged systematic compliance, improved financial transparency, strengthened documentation, and provided benefits through the input tax credit mechanism. The analysis also shows that digital filing and formal accounting practices have become increasingly important for small enterprises. At the same time, frequent regulatory changes, technical difficulties, documentation requirements, compliance costs, and working-capital concerns continue to create operational challenges. Therefore, the effectiveness of GST for small businesses can be further improved through simplified procedures, continuous taxpayer education, technological assistance, professional guidance, and responsive government support. Overall, GST has contributed to improved business organisation, tax discipline, transparency, and growth prospects among Telangana's small businesses, although sustained policy support remains necessary.

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