Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off the new GST reforms with a call to embrace Swadeshi and boost Made in India products, urging Indians to make every home and shop a showcase for local goods. The changes, approved at the GST Council’s 56th meeting earlier this month, rolled out on September 22—the first day of Shardiya Navaratri—and aim to simplify taxes while supporting small businesses and MSMEs.
In his address to the nation, Modi highlighted how these GST reforms embody the government’s “Nagrik Devo Bhava” approach, treating citizens like gods. He pointed out that pairing these reforms with recent income tax exemptions will save people more than Rs 2.5 lakh crore in a single year. “This is a real savings festival,” Modi said, dubbing it “Bachat Utsav.” He encouraged everyone to buy products stamped “Made in India,” noting they carry the hard work and sweat of the country’s youth.
Modi stressed self-reliance as key to building a developed India. “To achieve that goal, we must focus on what our people need—and make it right here at home,” he added. The lower GST rates and streamlined rules will directly help small industries, cottage businesses, and MSMEs by cutting taxes and boosting sales. He drew inspiration from India’s independence era, saying, “Just as Swadeshi powered our freedom struggle, it will fuel our economic prosperity today. Businesses will sell more and pay less tax— a win-win.”
Not everyone agrees with the fanfare around these GST reforms, though. Congress MP Imran Masood slammed the government’s moves, telling that they promised an economic boom but instead crushed small businessmen. “The whole country is paying the price for these hasty, poorly planned decisions,” Masood said. He had hoped Modi would address bigger issues, like America’s role in hurting India.
Masood raised alarms about the sharp hike in US H-1B visa fees, which could hit thousands of Indian professionals hard. “Why would companies shell out so much for talent from India?” he asked. “If they don’t, our people won’t go. Instead, let’s build an environment here so skilled workers stay and contribute to India’s growth.”
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