Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the country on Monday as Navratri started, calling the festival a time of devotion, courage, patience, and determination.
In a post on X, he wrote, “Heartfelt wishes to all for Navratri. This sacred festival, filled with devotion, courage, patience, and determination, brings new strength and renewed faith into everyone’s lives. Jai Mata Di!”
While stressing the religious significance of the first day of Navratri in honor of Goddess Shailputri, the Prime Minister expressed his hope that "with the love and blessings of the Goddess, all life should be blessed with good health and well-being."
PM Modi also accentuated schemes such as 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and the 'GST Bhachat Utsav' during Navratri, observing that this year's celebration is unique since the "GST savings festival" is combined with India's movement of self-reliance.
“Along with the GST savings festival, the mantra of self-reliance will gain new energy during this period. Let us come together in collective efforts to achieve the resolve of a developed and self-reliant India,” he added.
On Sunday, PM Modi spoke to the nation before the implementation of the new Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms. He defined the GST rate cuts as complementing the income tax reductions that were brought in earlier this year, forming a "double bonanza" for citizens.
"In the last 11 years, 25 crore people in the country have defeated poverty. Having emerged from poverty, a large group of 25 crore people, known as the neo-middle class, is playing a significant role in the country today. This neo-middle class has its own aspirations and dreams," PM Modi said.
"This year, the government presented a gift by making income up to Rs 12 lakh tax-free and naturally, when income tax relief up to Rs 12 lakh is granted, the lives of the middle class undergo a profound transformation, bringing about so much simplicity and convenience. Now, the poor, the neo-middle class, and the middle class are receiving a double bonanza. With the reduction in GST, it will be easier for the citizens of the country to fulfil their dreams," he added.
Explaining the reform process, PM Modi stated that it is "a continuous process," reiterating that the GST reforms were intended to meet the country's "current needs and future dreams."
"Reform is a continuous process. As times change and the country's needs change, next-generation reforms are equally necessary. These new GST reforms are being implemented, keeping in mind the country's current needs and future dreams," PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister also explained the new GST structure, which now consists of only two tax slabs: 5% and 18%.
"In the new form, there will now be only 5% and 18% tax slabs. This means that most everyday items will become cheaper. Food items, medicines, soap, brush, paste, health and life insurance, many such goods and services will either be tax-free or only a 5% tax will have to be paid. Out of the goods which were earlier taxed at 12%, 99% of the items have now come under the slab of 5% tax," he said.
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