GST Bachat Utsav: PM Modi Urges Citizens To Support Swadeshi Products In Letter To Nation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended festive greetings to the nation as Navaratri began, while also urging citizens to support locally made products and celebrate the launch of the “GST Bachat Utsav” (GST Savings Festival).
In a letter to the nation, PM Modi highlighted the rollout of Next Generation GST reforms starting September 22, calling them a milestone in reducing household expenses, simplifying business operations, and promoting economic growth across all sections of society — including farmers, women, youth, traders, MSMEs, and the middle class.
“The reforms will boost savings and directly benefit every section of society. Your household expenses will reduce, making it easier to fulfill aspirations such as building a home, purchasing a vehicle, or planning a family vacation,” he said.
The Prime Minister outlined key features of the new GST system, noting that tax rates have largely been streamlined into two slabs: 5% and 18%. Essentials such as food, medicines, soap, toothpaste, and insurance will either be tax-free or fall under the lowest 5% slab. Items previously taxed at 12% have mostly shifted to 5%.
PM Modi also praised shopkeepers and traders for displaying “then and now” boards to highlight the reduced rates for customers. He emphasized that lower taxes and simpler compliance rules will benefit small industries, traders, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs, while also fostering a stronger business environment.
Linking the reforms to the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of self-reliance and strengthening local manufacturing. He appealed to citizens to buy Swadeshi products, highlighting the role of local artisans, workers, and industries in generating employment and supporting families.
“I appeal to our shopkeepers and traders to sell products that are Made in India. Let us proudly say – what we buy is Swadeshi. Let us proudly say — what we sell is Swadeshi,” PM Modi wrote. He also urged state governments to improve the investment climate and encourage industry and manufacturing.
Concluding his message, the Prime Minister wished all citizens a joyous Navaratri and a season full of happiness and savings through the GST Savings Festival, expressing hope that the reforms would bring greater prosperity to every Indian household.
