PM Modi calls GST reforms a 'double dose of growth' and slams UPA tax policies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Thursday, highlighting the significance of GST 2.0 reforms and interacting with National Awardee Teachers. He praised the teachers for their vital role in nation-building, saying their work extends far beyond classrooms as they shape character and inspire curiosity in the Yuva Shakti, the youth of India.

On GST reforms, Modi emphasised the importance of timely changes to keep India competitive globally. “Without timely changes, we cannot give our country its rightful place in today’s global situation,” he said. He added that next-generation reforms, starting from 22 September, the first day of Navratri, will support India’s progress in the 21st century and strengthen the role of Matrishakti in society.

Referring to his Independence Day speech, Modi recalled his promise of reforms to make India self-reliant. He also assured citizens of a “double blast of happiness” before Diwali and Chhath Puja.

Modi hailed GST reforms as a “double dose of support and growth for India,” stating that they will save money for common people while strengthening the economy.

“Five new gems, or panch ratna, have been added to India’s vibrant economy through these reforms,” Modi said, emphasising that the measures are designed to ensure sustained growth for decades to come.

"Summarising the reforms done in GST, it will add five gems to the Indian economy. First, the tax stream will be simpler. The quality of life of the citizens of India will increase, consumption and growth will increase, the ease of doing business will boost investment and employment, and cooperative federalism will become stronger for a developed India," he said.

He criticised the previous UPA government for imposing burdensome taxes, recalling that they levied 21% tax even on children’s toffees. “If I had done this, they would have pulled my hair out,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister said that when GST was first implemented eight years ago, it fulfilled a dream decades in the making. “These discussions existed long before I became Prime Minister, but no action was taken,” he added.

Modi explained that the next-generation reforms will improve the quality of life, boost consumption, and enhance economic growth. He noted that reduced GST rates will benefit everyone, poor families, the neo middle class, women, students, farmers, and the youth.

He also stressed that GST reforms will strengthen cooperative federalism, making India a more developed nation, and said that better ease of doing business will encourage investments and create employment opportunities.

While interacting with teachers, Modi urged students and future generations to consider ways to fulfil at least one need of the country, underlining the importance of contribution to national progress.