Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off a nationwide celebration called “GST Utsav” on Sunday, tying it to the start of Navratri and calling it a true festival of savings for everyday Indians.
In his address to the nation, Modi shared exciting news: Starting September 22, the first day of Navratri, shoppers can snag their favorite items at lower prices thanks to fresh GST rate cuts. “These next-gen GST reforms kick in tomorrow—it’s like a GST saving festival,” he said. “From tomorrow, you’ll buy your go-to products with ease. This is a GST saving festival for every Indian.”
Modi highlighted how these changes deliver double benefits to the poor and emerging middle class. He also extended warm Navratri greetings, noting that the new GST reforms will directly help common people, farmers, small businesses (MSMEs), middle-class families, women, and youth.
The government unveiled these GST rate cuts on September 4, slashing taxes on everything from cars to everyday consumer goods. It’s the biggest shake-up in India’s indirect tax system since the Goods and Services Tax (GST) launched back in July 2017.
Dubbed GST 2.0, the updated system simplifies things with just two main slabs: 5 percent and 18 percent. Luxury items, sin goods like tobacco, and demerit products face a steep 40 percent rate. The GST Council approved these changes at its 56th meeting, where central and state governments teamed up to reach full agreement.
Earlier that day, the Prime Minister’s Office teased the announcement on X, saying Modi would speak to the nation at 5 p.m. In his speech, he stressed the teamwork between the central government and states, calling it a symbol of cooperation.
Modi wrapped up by explaining how the new tax structure will lower prices on goods, boost industries, and power up India’s overall economy. With these GST reforms, more affordable shopping looks set to become the norm for millions.
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