Why Should Traders Embrace GST Cuts and Promote Made-in-India Goods with ‘Swadeshi Mela’ During Festivals?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi encourages NDA MPs to host ‘Swadeshi Mela’ fairs this festive season.
- Support for Made-in-India products can strengthen the economy.
- Recent GST rate cuts aim to make essential goods more affordable.
- Festivals are a time to celebrate self-reliance and local culture.
- Engaging with traders is crucial to highlight the benefits of these initiatives.
New Delhi, Sep 8 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on NDA MPs to host a ‘Swadeshi Mela’ in their localities during the upcoming festive period, aimed at promoting Made-in-India goods.
According to government sources, PM Modi encouraged these representatives to engage with traders and underscore the advantages of the recent GST rate reductions.
During his address to the MPs, held just before the vice-presidential election, the Prime Minister reiterated the significance of the ‘Swadeshi’ concept.
He pointed out that the recent GST cuts have sparked a favorable response among citizens, urging MPs to leverage this enthusiasm by reaching out directly to the community.
PM Modi emphasized the necessity of endorsing locally produced items and suggested organizing fairs from Navratri to Diwali to showcase Indian products.
“This is the festive season. Navratri, Vijayadashami, Dhanteras, Diwali… these occasions celebrate our culture, but they should also embody self-reliance. Every purchase should ideally be ‘Made in India’. From decorative items to gifts, let’s opt for products manufactured in our nation,” the Prime Minister stated.
He also urged businesses to refrain from selling imported items, emphasizing that even minor efforts can bolster the nation's economy.
On August 25, PM Modi made a similar request to the public to favor Indian-made products during the festive season to promote self-reliance and economic development.
Meanwhile, the 56th meeting of the GST Council resolved to simplify the tax framework by consolidating the previous four slabs into two main rates – 5 percent and 18 percent.
The 5 percent slab will encompass essential goods such as food, dairy products, packaged snacks, utensils, agricultural machinery, handicrafts, sewing machines, and medical supplies.
Government sources indicated that these adjustments will render essential items more affordable, benefiting small-scale industries, farmers, and traders, while also enhancing demand during the festive season.