What is the ‘GST Savings Festival’ and how will BJP MPs promote new tax rates?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Nationwide initiative promoting GST benefits.
- Engagement with local markets by BJP MPs.
- Introduction of GST 2.0 with simplified tax structure.
- Focus on Swadeshi products and self-reliance.
- Expected savings for consumers on essential goods.
New Delhi, Sep 22 (NationPress) In an extensive public outreach effort to underscore the advantages of the recently implemented Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, the BJP has inaugurated a week-long nationwide initiative known as the ‘GST Savings Festival.
Commencing on Monday and lasting until September 29, all BJP Members of Parliament (MPs) and party workers have been instructed to visit local markets within their constituencies to advocate for the new GST rates and foster a celebratory mood.
This initiative coincides with the introduction of GST 2.0, a comprehensive overhaul of the tax system that features a streamlined two-slab structure and decreases GST on more than 375 items, including various essential goods.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled this nationwide “GST Utsav” during his address on Sunday, describing it as a “festival of savings” intended for every Indian.
As part of this campaign, BJP MPs and party activists will engage in morning and evening padyatras (foot marches) in one market area each day. During these walks, they will visit local shops, greet shopkeepers with flowers, and extend festive wishes for the Navratri season. MPs will also distribute specially crafted placards featuring slogans such as “Say it with pride, this is Swadeshi” or “Say it with pride, this is Made in India”, encouraging shopkeepers to display them prominently.
Alongside raising awareness about the new GST benefits, the campaign also aligns with a concurrent ‘Swadeshi Campaign’, which promotes products made in India and advocates for self-reliance. Banners adorned with the Swadeshi slogan will be carried during the marches, and placards will be produced in regional languages following a standardized design across the nation.
The party leadership has mandated all MPs to submit reports regarding their outreach activities to both state and central offices.
During this occasion, PM Modi highlighted that the GST reforms aim to support the poor, middle class, MSMEs, women, and youth, leading to significant savings for household budgets. “From tomorrow, you will be able to purchase your favorite items with ease. This is like a GST saving festival for every Indian,” he asserted.
The new GST rates, which will take effect on Monday, are anticipated to make a variety of products, ranging from food and snacks to medicines and household items, more affordable for consumers, while simplifying compliance for businesses.