Mumbai, Feb. 20 -- VST Industries (down 3.34%), Godfrey Philips India (down 4.71%) and ITC (down 1.08%) declined.

As per media reports, the government is considering raising GST on cigarettes and other tobacco products once it stops charging the compensation cess. Cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products are classified as "sin goods" and currently face multiple taxes, including GST, excise duty, and the National Calamity Contingent Duty.

Currently, the government is imposing 28% GST along with additional cess and other levies, on cigarettes and tobacco products, bringing the total tax burden to 53%. However, this tax rate is still below the 75% recommended by World Health Organization (WHO). One of the suggestions being explored is to ...