A workshop on February 13, 2026, highlighted the positive impact of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on India's middle and neo-middle classes, with a focus on women. Hosted by Sri Padmavati Mahila Viswa Vidyalayam (SPMVV) and the Centre for Women's Development Studies, experts from economics, taxation, and business fields shared key insights. Satish Dhavale, CGST & Customs Commissioner (Tirupati), explained how GST streamlined indirect taxes, increased transparency, and expanded the tax base. He added, "GST 2.0 led to rationalisation of tax rates that resulted in lower taxes and it, in turn, indirectly improved savings. This increased the purchasing power benefitted the middle and neo-middle class households." SPMVV Registrar R. Usha said, "Such policy-oriented academic programmes would help young researchers in subjects like taxation and public policy gain insights in real-time economic developments." Other speakers included G. Ramamani, Assistant Commissioner, who discussed GST's effect on small businesses and women entrepreneurs; ICMAI Chairman A. Parthasaradhi, who spoke on consumption patterns and women's role in expenditure decisions; and industry experts like D. Krishnamoorthy, M.C. Venkatanath, Bhagya Teja, G. Indira Priyadarshini, C. Komala, and S.V. Bharathi. The event was coordinated by SPMVV's P. Neeraja and CWDS representative Vandana. The workshop offered a detailed look at how GST reforms have boosted economic growth and women’s empowerment in India.