How Has the People-Friendly Modi Government Enhanced Festival Joy? Suvendu Adhikari on GST Changes
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Synopsis
The recent GST revisions will reduce prices of essential commodities, enhancing the festive spirit in West Bengal and across India. Suvendu Adhikari praises the Modi government for its timely intervention ahead of major celebrations. Is this a game-changer for the festival season?
Key Takeaways
- GST rates revised to 5% and 18% from previous rates.
- Prices of essential goods and services are expected to drop.
- Complete exemption from GST on life and health insurance.
- Government aims to enhance festive spirit with these changes.
- Adhikari highlights this as a win for the common people.
Kolkata, Sep 4 (NationPress) The recent adjustment in the Goods & Services Tax (GST) rates, as revealed by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is set to lower the cost of various essential goods ahead of the upcoming festive season in West Bengal and across the nation, stated Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly, on Thursday.
“Before Durga Puja, many everyday items will see a significant drop in prices. There will be a complete exemption from GST on life insurance and health insurance. The people-friendly Modi government has enhanced the festive spirit for citizens,” Adhikari remarked in a statement on social media platform X.
He noted that the Union Finance Minister indicated that starting September 22, GST will operate at two rates, 5% and 18%, with the previous 12% and 28% slabs eliminated.
“Previously, a 12% GST was applied to agricultural products, now it has been cut to 5%. This will lead to reduced prices for life-saving medicines and many daily essentials,” the Leader of Opposition asserted.
He further emphasized that this GST adjustment, which provides relief to the public, aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent pledges to offer festival benefits to the nation prior to Puja and other celebrations.
“Our esteemed Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji had declared from the Red Fort on Independence Day that he would provide festival gifts to the countrymen before Puja and festivals. As promised, this has been fulfilled—the upcoming festive days are now even more delightful for all,” Adhikari proclaimed.
On Wednesday evening, shortly after the Union Finance Minister's announcement about the GST rate changes, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claimed a “moral victory” regarding this development.
“This is a victory for the common people. A victory achieved against a tone-deaf regime that only listens when compelled. From the outset, @MamataOfficial cautioned the Finance Minister that taxing insurance premiums was harsh, anti-people, and would discourage families from securing their futures, leaving them vulnerable during crises,” she stated in a social media post on Wednesday night.
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Point of View
The recent GST adjustments are seen as a necessary response to the economic pressures faced by everyday citizens. While the government positions these changes as festival gifts, the true test will be their impact on the ground. It's crucial to maintain a balanced view, recognizing both the government's intent and the genuine needs of the populace.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new GST rates?
The new GST rates will be effective at 5% and 18%, with the previously applicable 12% and 28% rates being eliminated.
How will this affect essential goods?
The revision is expected to lower the prices of several essential commodities, making them more affordable before the festive season.
Who announced these changes?
The changes were announced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
What did Suvendu Adhikari say about this announcement?
Suvendu Adhikari praised the Modi government for making the festival season more enjoyable by reducing GST rates on essential items.
When will the new GST rates take effect?
The new GST rates will be effective starting September 22.
