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Influence Of Demographic Variables On Indirect Tax Setting For Selected Indian States

Author

Listed:
  • A. K. SETH

    (Department of Commerce, Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India)

  • ANKUR BHATNAGAR

    (Satyawati College (M), Ashok Vihar-III, Delhi 110052, India)

Abstract

This paper attempts to provide conclusive evidence in favor of sensitivity of optimal commodity taxes to demographic variables. This involves estimating optimal commodity taxes for the chosen 16 Indian states, incorporating demographic profiles for each state using NSS data. Such calculations are further done under alternative welfare weights for each household. The results reveal that the introduction of demographic variables in the demand system makes the tax rates more non-uniform across commodities and across states, and significantly alters their response to changes in the social planner's perception of a household's welfare. These effects are more pronounced for certain commodities that are basic and essential in a household's basket. Differences in welfare weights also have a similar effect on tax rates, though to a lesser degree.

Suggested Citation

  • A. K. Seth & Ankur Bhatnagar, 2008. "Influence Of Demographic Variables On Indirect Tax Setting For Selected Indian States," The Singapore Economic Review (SER), World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd., vol. 53(02), pages 293-316.
    • Handle: RePEc:wsi:serxxx:v:53:y:2008:i:02:n:s0217590808002951
    DOI: 10.1142/S0217590808002951
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Blacklow, P. & Ray, R., 2000. "Optimal Commodity Taxes in Australia and their Sensitivity to Consumer Preference and Demographic Specification," Papers 2001-01, Tasmania - Department of Economics.
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    3. Nicita, Alessandro, 2004. "Efficiency and equity of a marginal tax reform - income, quality, and price elasticities for Mexico," Policy Research Working Paper Series 3266, The World Bank.
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