Double dose for growth: PM hails GST 2.0, attacks Oppn

The changes in the Goods and Services Tax regime is a double dose of support and growth for the nation and the next-generation reforms have been done to support India's progress in the 21st century, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday, a day after the GST Council approved the most sweeping overhaul of the country's consumption tax since its 2017 launch.

- Rajeev Jayaswal and Sanjay Maurya

Modi's comments came even as experts said the rate cuts will boost domestic demand, offset the impact of US tariffs in businesses such as textiles and leather and may increase real gross domestic product (GDP) from existing estimates of 6.5% to 6.7% in 2025-26.

"Without timely reforms, our country cannot claim its rightful place in today's global landscape.

As I had said from the ramparts of Red Fort on August 15, it is essential to implement next-generation reforms to make India truly selfreliant. I had also assured the nation that there would be a double blast of happiness for citizens ahead of this Diwali and Chhath Puja..This time, the festivity of Dhanteras will also be even more vibrant as the tax on dozens of items has now been reduced significantly," Modi said while interacting with the National Awardee Teachers. Stating that GST has become even simpler, the PM said, "On 22 September, which is the first day of Navratri, the next generation reform will be implemented as all these things are related to the 'Matrishakti (maternal strength)".

Modi said that the poor, neo middle class, middle class women, students, farmers and young people will particularly benefit from the decision. He further said that these would lead to "ease of doing business", and boost employment and investments.