In Arunachal Pradesh, PM Modi's Message On Swadeshi, GST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with traders and merchants in Arunachal Pradesh as the rationalized Goods and Services Tax was implemented nationwide today.

PM Modi had interacted with the local traders and industry representatives to discuss GST.

New Delhi:

During his interaction with Arunachal Pradesh's commercial community, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized his role as a champion for local products and urged citizens to "buy Swadeshi and sell Swadeshi." He stressed that India's journey toward becoming a developed nation (Viksit Bharat) depends on achieving self-reliance.

The trading community expressed strong support for the revised GST structure, describing it as another significant achievement of Modi's administration. They noted that the new rates would reduce construction expenses, making housing more accessible, while also lowering the cost of raw materials to enable more competitive pricing of local products.

Representatives from the hospitality sector highlighted how the GST reduction would significantly boost domestic tourism. Additional participants pointed out substantial benefits for the fisheries and agricultural sectors.

In alignment with his commitment to enhancing Ease of Doing Business and nurturing entrepreneurship, the Prime Minister met with local business owners and industry delegates to examine the effects of the recent GST rate rationalization. At the venue, locals organized an exhibition featuring products from the region.

Later at a major gathering in Itanagar's Indira Gandhi Park, following the foundation stone laying ceremony for 13 development initiatives valued at over Rs 5,127 crore, PM Modi introduced a new slogan to the audience: "Garv se kahen, yeh swadeshi hai (Say Proudly, this is made in India)."

The Prime Minister subsequently shared on X: "As the sun rose today, so did a new chapter in India's economic journey, with the start of GST Bachat Utsav. And, what better place to be than Arunachal Pradesh, India's beautiful Land of the Rising Sun. In Itanagar, I met local traders and retailers who showcased a vibrant range of products, including aromatic teas, flavourful pickles, turmeric, bakery goods, handicrafts and more. They expressed joy on the GST reforms. Also gave them posters of 'Garv Se Kaho Yeh Swadeshi Hai', which they said they will enthusiastically display on their shops."

The Goods and Services Tax has been simplified from the previous four-tier structure to just two rates – 5 percent and 18 percent. Tax reductions have been implemented across numerous categories including food, medicines, essential commodities, agricultural products, green energy, small automobiles and motorcycles.

Critical items such as life and medical insurance, life-saving medications, and food products including dairy items and bread have been completely exempted from taxation.