Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation just hours before the launch of GST 2.0 reforms, linking the occasion with Navratri celebrations. He said the next-generation GST reforms, beginning tomorrow, will boost savings, lower prices, and accelerate India’s growth story.
Navratri Greetings And Savings Push
The Prime Minister began his speech by extending greetings for Navratri, calling it a day of double celebration as a “GST Bachat Utsav” also begins. He emphasised that the poor, middle class, women, youth, and traders would gain the most from the reforms, which aim to increase purchasing power and enhance ease of doing business.
GST Evolution And New Slabs
Highlighting the journey since GST’s introduction in 2017, Modi said the government addressed states’ concerns and implemented a unified tax system. With GST 2.0, only two slabs — 5% and 18% — will apply to most goods and services, while luxury and “sin” products remain at higher rates. Essentials such as coffee, ghee, biscuits, and edible oil will become cheaper, alongside cars and health insurance premiums.
A Boost For Make In India
Modi described the reforms as part of a broader effort to promote “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and urged citizens to support Indian-made goods. He said combined savings from GST and income tax exemptions over the past year would total Rs 2.5 lakh crore, encouraging people to embrace Swadeshi products at home and in business.