In a major Diwali gesture, the Delhi government has disbursed ₹694 crore in long-pending GST refunds to traders. The move, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, aims to boost liquidity and ease of doing business. September alone saw a record ₹227 crore payout, marking a significant acceleration in refund processing.
Delhi’s Diwali Bonanza: Traders Receive ₹694 Crore in GST Refunds as Government Accelerates Payouts
The Delhi government has rolled out a festive financial boost for the city’s trading community by disbursing ₹694 crore in Goods and Services Tax (GST) refunds ahead of Diwali. The initiative, spearheaded by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, is part of a broader push to improve business conditions and clear long-standing dues.
Key Highlights from the Announcement:
Total Refund Disbursed
₹694 crore credited to traders’ accounts
Part of a larger ₹1,600 crore backlog pending since 2019
Record Monthly Payout
September 2025 saw a historic ₹227 crore disbursed—the highest monthly GST refund in Delhi’s history
Government Commitment
CM Rekha Gupta reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to timely refunds and ease of doing business
The GST department has adopted modern technology to expedite processing and ensure direct bank transfers
Impact on Traders
The refunds are expected to boost liquidity for small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
Traders can now reinvest in inventory, staffing, and festive sales without financial strain
Policy Alignment
Gupta emphasized that the move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of empowering entrepreneurs and streamlining governance
Operational Efficiency
Officials have been trained to handle refund claims swiftly
The use of digital tools has reduced manual errors and processing delays
Public Response
Trader associations have welcomed the move, calling it a “timely and much-needed relief”
Many see it as a sign of improved government-business relations
This Diwali, the Delhi government’s proactive approach has not only brightened festive spirits but also reinforced its commitment to economic resilience and administrative transparency.
Sources: Economic Times, CNBC TV18