Next-generation GST reforms will mark the beginning of a GST Bachat Utsav: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation via video conferencing on Sunday. Extending heartfelt greetings to all citizens on the commencement of Navratri, the festival of worshipping Shakti, he remarked that from the very first day of Navratri, the nation is taking a significant step forward in the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign. Beginning at sunrise on 22nd September, the country will implement Next Generation GST reforms.
PM Modi highlighted that this marks the beginning of a GST Bachat Utsav (Savings Festival) across India. He emphasized that this festival will enhance savings and make it easier for people to purchase their preferred items. Modi noted that the benefits of this savings festival will reach the poor, middle class, neo middle class, youth, farmers, women, shopkeepers, traders, and entrepreneurs alike.
PM remarked that in this festive season, every household will experience increased happiness and sweetness. Extending his congratulations, PM conveyed best wishes to crores of families across the country for the Next Generation GST reforms and the GST Savings Festival. He underscored that these reforms will accelerate India’s growth story, simplify business operations, make investments more attractive, and ensure that every state becomes an equal partner in the race for development.
The Prime Minister underscored that with lower GST rates, fulfilling personal dreams will become easier for citizens—whether it’s building a house, purchasing a TV or refrigerator, or buying a scooter, bike, or car—all will now cost less. He added that travel will also become more affordable, as GST on most hotel rooms has been reduced. Modi expressed happiness over the enthusiastic response of shopkeepers towards the GST reforms. He noted that they are actively working to pass on the benefits of GST reductions to customers. PM Modi highlighted that in many places, boards displaying price comparisons—before and after the reforms—are being prominently displayed.
Underlining that the mantra of ‘Nagarik Devobhava’ is clearly reflected in the Next Generation GST reforms, the PM highlighted that when the income tax relief and GST reductions are combined, the decisions taken over the past year will result in savings exceeding Rs 2.5 lakh crore for the people of India. He affirmed that this is precisely why he calls it a ‘Bachat Utsav’.
Highlighting that reduced GST rates and simplified procedures will significantly benefit India’s MSMEs, small-scale industries, and cottage enterprises, the PM remarked that these reforms will boost their sales and reduce their tax burden, resulting in a double advantage.
Let's buy products that are Made in India: PM
The Prime Minister remarked that just as the mantra of Swadeshi empowered India’s freedom struggle, it will similarly energize the nation’s journey toward prosperity. He highlighted that many foreign items have unknowingly become part of daily life, and citizens often do not even realize whether the comb in their pocket is foreign or indigenous.
Modi emphasized the need to liberate ourselves from such dependence and urged people to buy products that are Made in India, infused with the hard work and sweat of the country’s youth. He called for every household to become a symbol of Swadeshi and every shop to be adorned with indigenous goods. The PM encouraged citizens to proudly declare their commitment to Swadeshi—“I buy Swadeshi,” “I sell Swadeshi”—and stated that this mindset must become intrinsic to every Indian.
Prakash Kumar Pandey