Gandhinagar: In a move to support members of the armed forces and their families, the Gujarat govt has exempted residential property tax levied by gram panchayats on homes owned or occupied by serving defence personnel, ex-servicemen and widows of soldiers who died in service.The exemption has been introduced through an amendment to the Gujarat Gram and Nagar Panchayats Taxes and Fees Rules, 1964. According to an official statement, the benefit will apply to one residential property located within a gram panchayat area and owned or occupied by an eligible beneficiary.The concession covers serving members of the armed forces and their spouses, retired defence personnel, and widows of soldiers who lost their lives while serving the nation. The exemption is limited to a single residential property to ensure the benefit reaches the intended beneficiaries.Govt said the decision aims to provide financial relief to defence personnel and their families while recognising their contribution and sacrifice.The amendment comes after draft rules were published in Dec 2025, inviting suggestions and objections from stakeholders. Following a review of the feedback received, govt notified the final amendment rules.
