GST reforms to impact every citizen cutting across regions and income groups, says FM Nirmala Sitharaman

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the recent GST rate cuts are a landmark reform that will touch the lives of every Indian, cutting across income groups and regions. Speaking to Navika Kumar on Times Now, Sitharaman stressed that the effort took months of detailed work with her team and will deliver real benefits to households, especially the middle class.

“Every citizen wakes up and buys something that has GST on it. A major overhaul of such a tax is no small task. It impacts 140 crore people,” the minister said. She added that officials worked “intensely for eight months” to re-examine every item under GST.

Even online critics praised GST cuts

Sitharaman said she has taken criticism and social media trolling in her stride, focusing instead on the long-term benefits of the reform. “There will always be difficult days and good days. You learn from both,” she remarked. Interestingly, she noted that even online critics, often dubbed “troll armies,” have praised the GST cuts, with some calling her “Nirmala Tai” on social media.

The minister dismissed claims that political pressure influenced the timing of the reform. “If pressure mattered, I would have given in years ago. This was not a tweak but a full clean-up, like dredging a reservoir to give it fresh life,” she said.

On the opposition’s criticism that the reforms came late, Sitharaman argued that earlier governments had failed to deliver GST in the first place. “It is outrageous to want credit where it’s not due, and to grudge giving credit when a big reform has finally happened,” she said.

She also acknowledged suggestions made by state governments and opposition leaders. Referring to West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee’s demand for tax relief on insurance, Sitharaman said she respected all constructive inputs. She added that she has written to every state finance minister, thanking them for their cooperation in reaching a consensus at the GST Council.

Sitharaman concluded that the reform was not about politics but about people. “This decision will bring real relief and cheer, especially ahead of the festive season,” she said.

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