Is the Diwali Bonanza for Common People? NDA Leaders Praise PM Modi for GST Reforms

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- GST reforms are seen as a festive boon for consumers.
- Significant tax reductions on essential goods and services.
- The reforms aim to stimulate economic activity.
- Small businesses and farmers are expected to benefit greatly.
- Healthcare sector to witness reduced costs for medicines.
New Delhi, Sep 22 (NationPress) NDA leaders on Monday enthusiastically embraced the implementation of the advanced Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, labeling them as a "Diwali gift" to the populace in anticipation of the festive season, while attributing major consumer relief to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The revamped GST framework, which was launched on Monday, significantly reduces taxes on a broad spectrum of goods and services, including food, automobiles, healthcare, personal care, household items, and other necessities.
The reforms are projected to alleviate the financial strain on the middle class while stimulating economic activity.
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale praised the reforms, asserting that they will elevate India's economy to new heights.
In an interview with IANS, he remarked, "I believe Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made several commendable decisions during his 11 years in office, but this GST reduction will propel the economy to unprecedented levels. This reduction will greatly benefit the common man."
He also emphasized the Prime Minister's call to support local enterprises.
"In his recent address, PM Modi urged citizens to embrace Swadeshi products. Choosing 'Made in India' items will benefit our entrepreneurs. This Navratri, these reforms will serve as a tremendous boon for our people. PM Modi has truly accomplished something remarkable," Athawale added.
BJP national spokesperson Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi also endorsed the initiative while criticizing the previous Congress-led UPA administration for its economic mismanagement.
"With the establishment of 'one nation, one tax', PM Modi has reformed the GST with a focus on empowering and improving the lives of the public. Some individuals are merely inclined to criticize every reform; that is their nature. When they were in power, the economy was in decline, and the public was distressed," Naqvi told IANS.
BJP national spokesperson Tuhin Sinha underscored the magnitude of the reform, describing it as historic.
"Today marks an important day for the nation. Navratri is commencing, and this is a historic moment. Alongside Navratri, a nationwide 'Bachat Utsav' is also being inaugurated. For the first time, taxes have been significantly lowered. Ninety-nine percent of items that previously fell under the 12 percent GST will now only be subject to a 5 percent GST, and the majority of items that were subject to the 28 percent GST will now have an 18 percent rate," he stated.
Sinha further pointed out that the healthcare sector stands to gain significantly.
"With the reduction of GST on medicines, patients will receive better care at a lower expense. This reform will save Rs 1.5 lakh crore, which will be utilized for public welfare. This capital will re-enter our economy, benefiting every sector," he added.
JD(U) leader K.C. Tyagi also applauded the reduction, regarding the reforms as a necessary relief for small businesses and farmers.
"The increased GST rates had often been burdensome for small farmers, consumers, and shopkeepers. I am delighted that PM Modi has bestowed this Diwali gift just in time for Navratri," Tyagi told IANS.