PM Modi Launches GST 2.0, Urges India to Embrace Swadeshi During Navratri

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday lauded the next-generation GST reforms, calling them a historic step to boost savings, simplify taxation, and benefit every section of society. In an open letter to the nation on the occasion of Navratri, he announced the launch of 'GST Bachat Utsav', linking the festive spirit with the economic reforms.

PM Modi's Vision for Economic Growth

Highlighting the simplified tax structure, Modi explained that GST now has only two slabs - 5% and 18%. Essentials like food, medicines, soap, toothpaste, and insurance are either tax-free or fall under the lowest 5% slab, while items previously taxed at 12% have largely shifted to 5%.

He praised shopkeepers and traders for displaying "then and now" boards showing pre- and post-reform tax rates, describing the initiative as a step toward greater transparency and awareness.

Poverty Alleviation and Savings

PM Modi underlined that since his government assumed office, 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty, forming what he called an "aspirational neo-middle class." He added that the new GST reforms, along with income tax cuts, will help citizens save Rs 2.5 lakh crore, empowering them to achieve their aspirations.

Support for MSMEs and Small Businesses

The Prime Minister emphasized that GST 2.0 will strengthen India's small industries, shopkeepers, traders, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs by reducing taxes, simplifying compliance, and boosting ease of doing business. "Lower taxes, lower prices, and simpler rules will mean better sales, less compliance burden, and growth of opportunities," Modi said.

Self-Reliance and Swadeshi

PM Modi used the occasion to urge citizens to support Made in India products. "Let us proudly say - what we buy is Swadeshi, what we sell is Swadeshi," he said, stressing that buying local products will help artisans, workers, and industries while creating employment for the youth.

Vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047

Concluding his letter, Modi reaffirmed India's collective goal of achieving Viksit Bharat (developed India) by 2047. He stressed that GST 2.0, coupled with the promotion of Swadeshi products and self-reliance, will be critical in turning India's vision into reality.