Are GST 2.0 Reforms Part of a Decade-Long Transformation of India’s Economic Landscape?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- GST 2.0 reforms aim to simplify the tax structure.
- Focus on making essential goods more affordable.
- Support for the middle class through reduced tax burdens.
- Initiatives to empower rural economies and farmers.
- Long-term vision for a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
New Delhi, Sep 4 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Thursday that the previous decade has witnessed significant reforms aimed at reshaping India’s economic framework. These reforms include corporate tax reductions that encouraged investment, the implementation of GST to establish a unified market, and personal income tax changes that improve the Ease of Living.
During a discussion on social media platform X, responding to posts from economists, corporate professionals, and the middle class regarding the GST 2.0 reforms, PM Modi remarked, “The #NextGenGST Reforms continue this journey, simplifying the system, ensuring fairness, and focusing on growth. Our fiscal discipline has garnered global confidence and improved credit ratings. These efforts lay a solid foundation for a Viksit Bharat.”
Reflecting on the GST 2.0 reforms announced during his speech from the Red Fort on August 15, and the recent approval of a simplified two-tier GST rate structure by the GST Council, PM Modi defended the highest rate slab for tobacco and junk food products.
He noted on X, “The #NextGenGST measures embody the vision of 'Swasth Bharat' by making essential food items, cooking essentials, and protein-rich products more affordable for families across India.”
In conjunction with initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and POSHAN Abhiyaan, these reforms reinforce our commitment to improved health, balanced nutrition, and enhanced quality of life for every citizen, he added in his post.
Responding to a congratulatory message from Amul Cooperative regarding the GST reforms, PM Modi stated, “The contribution of our Annadatas has been crucial in bolstering India’s rural economy and ensuring nutritional security for millions. Through initiatives like the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, support for cooperatives, and ongoing reforms, our government is dedicated to transforming India’s dairy sector.”
He emphasized, “The #NextGenGST reforms are another stride toward empowering countless dairy farmers, enhancing value addition, and making dairy products more affordable for every household.”
In his message to manufacturers, the PM remarked, “#NextGenGST is a revolutionary change for manufacturers. Reduced input costs with simplified slabs of 5 percent and 18 percent, along with faster digital compliance and increasing demand, will significantly boost ‘Made in India’ products.”
Addressing the middle class, PM Modi stated, “India’s diligent middle class is central to our growth journey. Through historic income tax reductions and now #NextGenGST reforms that make items like TVs, ACs, and everyday essentials more affordable, we are committed to enhancing the ease of living and supporting the aspirations of millions of families.”
He acknowledged the role of MSMEs in the Indian growth narrative, stating, “MSMEs are the backbone of our economy, generating jobs and driving growth. Every reform has focused on strengthening small and medium enterprises. The latest GST changes build on this momentum by rationalizing rates, simplifying compliance, and supporting businesses throughout India.”
In response to the government’s decisive actions in the insurance sector, PM Modi stated, “Affordable healthcare for every Indian has always been our mission. From Jan Aushadhi Kendras to Ayushman Bharat, and now with reduced GST on essential health products, including zero tax on 33 life-saving medicines, we continue our journey to make quality healthcare more accessible and affordable for all.”
“Over the years, we have worked to ensure financial security and healthcare access for every citizen. The next-generation GST reforms, which make life and health insurance more affordable, signify another important milestone in our mission of ‘Insurance for All by 2047.’ Together, we are moving towards a Swasth and Samarth Bharat,” he concluded.