Itanagar, Sep 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced the launch of next-generation GST reforms, calling it a major relief for households, traders and entrepreneurs. Addressing a massive gathering at Indira Gandhi Park in Itanagar, he urged citizens to celebrate a grand “GST Bachat Utsav” (savings festival), describing it as a milestone for the nation.
The Prime Minister said GST has now been simplified into just two slabs — 5 per cent and 18 per cent. Essential items such as kitchen supplies, educational materials, footwear and clothing have become cheaper, while several goods are now tax-free. “Building a home, buying a scooter, dining out and travelling will all be more affordable,” he added, stressing that the reforms will especially benefit women by easing household budgets.
PM Modi highlighted three reasons that made his visit special: the auspicious first day of Navratri and worship of Maa Shailputri; the launch of GST reforms and the ‘Savings Festival’; and the foundation stones for 13 development projects worth over ₹5,127 crore in Arunachal Pradesh, spanning power, connectivity, tourism and health. Thousands of people responded enthusiastically as he led them to raise mobile flashlights in celebration.
Before the rally, the Prime Minister visited an exhibition of local crafts, interacted with artisans, traders and taxpayers, and discussed the impact of GST rationalisation. He said the reforms would boost entrepreneurship and strengthen the Ease of Doing Business in the Northeast.
Later in the day, PM Modi flew to Tripura, where he inaugurated the redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari temple in Udaipur, Gomati district. Calling the projects a “double benefit” of Centre-state cooperation, he extended congratulations to the people of Arunachal and Tripura, affirming that the GST ‘Savings Festival’ would bring prosperity and success to every household.
