Watching GST implications for telecom sector closely: Manoj Sinha

NEW DELHI: The telecom ministry is keeping a close watch on the impact of goods and services tax ( GST) regime on the sector, after carriers said that an 18 per cent levy will increase the cost of services to consumers.

"Telecom operators have already been paying 15 per cent tax. A 3 per cent difference is there. We are considering that at our level. They (telecom companies) will also meet GST council members," telecom minister Manoj Sinha said Thursday, while sharing achievements of government in last three years.

"We are monitoring it seriously at our level," he added.

Telecom operators have said that there will increase in cost of phone services under the GST regime after its implemented from July 1.