“Assessing MSMEs’ Perception of GST in Haryana”

Abstract

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role in economic development, employment generation, and industrial growth in Haryana. This study aims to assess MSME stakeholders’ perceptions regarding employment dynamics and the implications of Goods and Services Tax (GST). An exploratory cum descriptive research design was adopted, and primary data were collected from 100 MSME stakeholders across manufacturing, service, and trading sectors using a structured questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA to examine variations across demographic groups. The findings reveal that MSMEs experience moderate challenges in workforce management, including hiring postponement, employee absenteeism, productivity fluctuations, and retention of skilled labor. While employment decline and permanent job losses are not universally observed, enterprises demonstrate adaptive strategies such as reducing working hours and adjusting operational practices. The study also highlights that GST-related compliance requirements and policy changes influence employment decisions and operational efficiency. ANOVA results indicate that perceptions are largely consistent across age groups, with some variation in areas such as temporary layoffs and policy impact. Overall, the study concludes that MSMEs in Haryana exhibit resilience while navigating regulatory and operational challenges, emphasizing the need for supportive policies, simplified compliance mechanisms, and capacity-building initiatives to enhance sustainability and growth.