'Vocal for local': PM Modi calls for festive season boost to indigenous products

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday called on citizens to make the upcoming festive season more meaningful by choosing indigenous products.

- SHAHID KABBAS

Addressing the 126th episode ofhis monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister highlighted the ongoing “GST Bachat Utsav’, encouraging people to take a pledge to support local goods during their festival shopping.

“Inthe coming days, festivals and celebrations will be a succession of joys. We doa lot of shopping for every festival. And this time, there’s even a 'GST Bachat Utsav’ going on," the Prime Minister said.

“Youcan make your festivals even more special by taking a pledge. Ifwe resolve to celebrate this festival with only indigenous products, you will see the joy of our celebrations increase exponentially,” he added.

His remarks continue the government's emphasis on the ‘Vocal for Local initiative, aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing and self-reliance. The Ministry of Finance has stated that the rationalisation ofthe GST structure will provide furtherimpetus to consumption growth, with a new two-rate structureimplemented, featuring a standard rate of 18 percent and a merit rate of 5 per cent.

PM Modi paid tributes to Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Lata Mangeshkar on their birth anniversaries.