Which of the following statements about Krishi Kalyan Cess (KKC) is/ar

Which of the following statements about Krishi Kalyan Cess (KKC) is/are correct ?

  • 1. KKC is calculated in the same way as Service Tax is calculated.
  • 2. The current rate of KKC is 0.50%.
  • 3. KKC is similar to the KKS (Krishi Kalyan Surcharge).

Select the correct answer using the code given below :

1, 2 and 3
1 and 2 only
2 and 3 only
1 only
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-2 – 2016
The correct answer is 1 and 2 only.
Krishi Kalyan Cess (KKC) was introduced in 2016 at a rate of 0.5% on all taxable services, calculated on the same value as Service Tax. It was distinct from surcharges like Krishi Kalyan Surcharge (KKS).
Statement 1 is correct: KKC was indeed levied at 0.5% on the value of taxable services, calculated in the same manner as the Service Tax itself and the Swachh Bharat Cess.
Statement 2 is correct: The rate of KKC was 0.50%.
Statement 3 is incorrect: KKC was a cess on Service Tax, specifically introduced to finance initiatives relating to improvement of agriculture and welfare of farmers. KKS (Krishi Kalyan Surcharge) was a surcharge on income tax levied on certain taxpayers in specific budget years for similar objectives. They were different types of levies applied to different tax bases. KKC was subsumed under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) which came into effect from July 1, 2017.