PM Narendra Modi announced on Sunday that the next-generation Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms will take effect from September 22, coinciding with the first day of Navratri.
Addressing the nation, he said, “From sunrise on September 22, a new chapter in India’s tax regime will begin.”
He called it the start of a ‘GST Savings Festival’ benefiting the poor, middle class, women, small businesses, and youth.
Reforms to Boost Savings and Growth
PM Modi said the new GST structure will increase household savings and make it easier for people to buy their preferred items. He noted that the reforms will strengthen purchasing power, boost economic growth, and spread festive cheer.
“With these reforms, the savings of every Indian will increase, and people will be able to buy their preferred items more easily. This festive season, everyone’s happiness will multiply,” he added.
The Prime Minister reflected on the pre-GST era. He recalled that before 2017, India’s tax system was entangled in a web of excise, VAT, octroi, and other levies.
“For decades, our citizens and traders were caught in the maze of dozens of taxes. Moving goods from one city to another meant crossing multiple checkpoints, filing endless forms, and paying arbitrary tolls. The burden ultimately fell on the poor consumer,” he said.
He cited a 2014 report noting that it was easier to ship goods from Bengaluru to Europe and back to Hyderabad than directly between the two Indian cities due to India’s complex tax system.
PM Modi emphasised that the 2017 launch of GST was a historic step, achieved after extensive consultations with states and stakeholders.
“It was the result of joint efforts of the Centre and states that the dream of One Nation, One Tax became reality,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the need for continuous reform. He said the new GST measures aim to simplify processes, reduce costs, and empower every section of society.
“Reform is a continuous process. As times change, so must our systems. Tomorrow marks a new beginning,” he concluded.
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