Big GST savings, message for MSMEs, swadeshi mantra: Highlights of PM Modi's address to nation

From tax cuts for the middle class to savings worth Rs 2.5 lakh crore, Modi ties GST 2.0 to India’s Aatmanirbhar and swadeshi journey

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his special address to the nation at 5 pm today, announced that the long-awaited Next-Generation GST reforms will roll out from tomorrow, September 22, coinciding with the first day of Navratri.

Extending festive greetings, Modi said the launch marks a major step towards building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Festive greetings & reforms: PM Modi wished citizens for Navratri and announced the start of Next-Generation GST reforms from September 22, calling it a step towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

‘GST Bachat Utsav’: He branded the reforms as a savings festival, saying people can now buy goods and services at lower prices, adding that “this festive season will double the happiness”.

99 percent of items taxed at 12 percent are now moved to the 5 percent bracket.

Most everyday essentials will become cheaper.

Hotel stays and travel will also attract lower GST rates.

Middle-class bonanza: Modi said Rs 12 lakh income is now exempt from tax, delivering relief to the middle and neo-middle classes. He called it a 'double bonanza' for the poor and middle class.

Poverty to prosperity: He said 25 crore people have moved out of poverty over the last 11 years to become part of India’s neo-middle class, with new aspirations and dreams.

Massive savings: The PM claimed citizens will save Rs 2.5 lakh crore this year due to GST 2.0 reforms.

Nagrik Devo Bhava: Modi urged businesses and citizens to embrace the ethos of 'Nagrik Devo Bhava,' putting people first, and said shopkeepers are happy to pass on these GST savings to consumers.

MSME push: Stressing that MSMEs were the backbone of India’s 'golden economic years,' he said GST reforms will empower them again, urging them to manufacture top-quality products that enhance India’s global reputation.

Swadeshi mantra: Modi called for a return to swadeshi values, asking Indians to prefer Made-in-India products in daily life. “The comb in our pocket must be proudly made in India. Garv se kaho, ye swadeshi hai,” he said.

Path to Viksit Bharat: He urged state governments to push manufacturing and attract investments, linking GST reforms to India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.