Next Gen GST Reforms Reflect Nagrik Devo Bhava, Says PM Modi: Top Quotes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered an address to the nation this evening, one day before the implementation of GST 2.0 reforms. "Next generation GST reforms will be implemented from tomorrow, functioning as a 'GST saving festival'," he announced.

Key points from PM Modi's address:

*As Navratri commences tomorrow, the nation will simultaneously take a step toward Atmanirbhar Bharat. The next generation GST reform will be implemented beginning on the first day of this auspicious festival

*The 'GST Bachat Utsav' (GST Savings Festival) will commence tomorrow

*This initiative aims to enhance investment while increasing savings and public satisfaction

*These reforms will accelerate India's growth trajectory

*The decisions to increase the income tax exemption limit alongside GST reforms will help citizens save approximately Rs 2.5 lakh crore

*When India embarked on its GST reform journey in 2017, it signaled the beginning of transforming historical taxation practices and establishing a new framework

*For decades, Indian citizens and businesses were entangled in a complex web of various taxes including octroi, entry tax, sales tax, excise, VAT, and service tax—with dozens of such taxes existing throughout the country. Transporting goods between cities required navigating numerous checkpoints

*The Prime Minister shared an anecdote from 2014, when he first assumed office: A foreign newspaper reported how one company found it so challenging to transport goods from Bengaluru to Hyderabad (570 km apart) that they considered it more practical to ship their goods from Bengaluru to Europe first, and then from Europe to Hyderabad

*This situation, created by complex tax structures and toll systems, affected millions of companies and citizens who faced daily difficulties navigating various taxation requirements

*The increased transportation costs for goods moving between cities ultimately burdened the poor, with customers bearing these additional expenses. Freeing the country from this situation became essential

*Thanks to these reforms, consumers are now liberated from complicated taxation systems

*Following this reform, everyday essential items will either be tax-free or attract only a 5% GST rate

*This represents a "double bonanza" for the poor, neo-middle class, and middle class segments of society

*These reforms embody the principle of 'nagrik devo bhava' (citizens are divine)

*The Prime Minister expressed high expectations from MSMEs, noting that when India was at its peak prosperity, MSMEs formed its foundation—a status the country needs to reclaim

*He emphasized that product quality should make India proud, and that embracing Swadeshi (domestically produced goods) will enhance national prosperity

*Modi encouraged citizens to purchase made-in-India products, suggesting that every home and shop should represent the Swadeshi movement, which will contribute to India's progress