How is PM Modi's GST reform transforming India's economy compared to Trump's tariff strategies?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- GST reforms are transformative for the economy.
- Recent tax cuts reflect government compassion.
- GST enhances transparency and reduces inflation.
- Comparison with Trump's tariffs highlights different economic philosophies.
- Women’s empowerment is symbolized by Sitharaman’s leadership.
Chennai, Sep 4 (NationPress) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tamil Nadu on Thursday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, calling them a “transformative milestone” that has significantly altered India's economic landscape. This commendation comes alongside a pointed critique of the tariff strategies employed by US President Donald Trump.
BJP spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad emphasized that under PM Modi’s guidance, India has embarked on “a golden era of integrated humanism”, influenced by the teachings of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya.
He asserted that GST has enhanced transparency, reduced inflation, and established a fair competition environment for businesses, from small vendors to large corporations.
Referring to GST as “a groundbreaking reform”, Prasad noted that it has closed avenues for tax evasion and fostered price stability.
“Citizens now perceive tax compliance as a patriotic obligation, contributing with pride to nation-building,”
he remarked.
The spokesperson pointed out that on the previous day, the Union government unveiled GST rate reductions as an “early Diwali gift”.
Taxes on essential items such as tractors, household appliances, medical devices, petrol, and diesel were lowered, and GST on 33 lifesaving medications was slashed to zero.
“This demonstrates the government’s empathy towards farmers, MSMEs, the middle class, and individuals reliant on affordable healthcare,”
said A.N.S. Prasad.
He juxtaposed PM Modi’s initiatives with Trump’s tariff policies, labeling the latter as “self-serving and constrictive”, contending that the American president’s actions have burdened global trade.
“While Trump’s strategies favored political advantages, Modi’s approach cultivates enthusiasm among nations trading with India, promoting inclusive prosperity,”
he stated.
Prasad also commended Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, deeming her appointment “a representation of women’s empowerment”. He noted that her leadership has positioned GST as a global standard, enhancing confidence among entrepreneurs and guaranteeing that tax policies benefit all states.
The BJP’s statement highlighted that the elimination of the 12% and 28% GST slabs—announced by PM Modi during his Independence Day 2025 address—has simplified the tax framework, enhancing the ease of living and conducting business.
“The GST system stands as the foundation of India’s economic ascent, fortifying revenues and involving every citizen in growth,”
Prasad concluded, mentioning that these reforms are integral to the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat.