Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hailed the GST 2.0 reforms as a “double dose” of growth and savings for the people, promising that the momentum of next-generation reforms will not stop as India moves toward becoming self-reliant.
Speaking at an interaction with National Award-winning teachers, PM Modi said the new simplified two-tier GST system will come into effect from September 22, the first day of Navratri. He reminded citizens that he had assured a “double dhamaka” of reforms before Diwali and Chhath, festivals celebrated widely across the country.
The GST Council’s recent decision introduced a two-slab structure of 5% and 18%, replacing the earlier complex regime. Modi criticized the previous Congress governments for levying high taxes on essentials like food, medicines, and farm-related items.
“Had that regime continued, people would still be paying ₹20–25 tax on every ₹100 purchase. Our aim is to ensure maximum savings and a better quality of life for ordinary citizens,” he said.
Five Pillars of GST 2.0
The Prime Minister likened the reforms to adding a ‘Panch Ratna’ (five gems) to India’s economy:
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A simpler tax system.
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Better quality of life for citizens.
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Higher consumption and growth.
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More investments and job creation through ease of doing business.
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Stronger cooperative federalism for a developed India.
He also urged students to think of solutions that meet at least one national need and stressed the importance of ‘Vocal for Local’ campaigns.
Under the new GST rates, everyday items like roti, paratha, hair oil, ice creams, and TVs will become cheaper. Household aspirational goods such as ACs and washing machines will also see rate cuts, aiming to boost domestic consumption and cushion the impact of U.S. tariffs.
Premiums on life and health insurance policies, including family floaters, have been fully exempted from GST – a move expected to ease financial burdens on the middle class.
Online Gaming Law
PM Modi also highlighted the recently passed law on online gaming, calling it a safeguard for the youth.
“Gaming is not bad, but gambling is. Done responsibly, India can even dominate the global gaming market,” he said.
The Prime Minister concluded that timely reforms are vital for India’s place in the global economy and assured that the government has both the political will and vision to deliver them.
