NT ReporterPanajiChemists in the state have asked for a protection period of 90-120 days to transition into the new GST rates, seeking to ensure that those who do not stock lower MRP items are not subjected to punitive action by tax officials. With the revised GST rates coming into effect from September 22, chemists are left with large inventories of medicines and pharmaceutical products purchased at higher GST rates ranging between 12 per cent and 18 per cent. GST reforms have lowered the tax rate on medicines to 5 per cent, while cancer and life-saving drugs are now completely tax-free. The retailers’ body said it is in continuous coordination with pharmaceutical companies, software vendors and state associations to ensure uniform implementation of GST. Meanwhile, large chain pharmacy companies in the state have disclosed that revised MRPs of products and GST benefits are being passed on to customers since Monday.