PM Modi launched the GST ‘Savings Festival’, highlighting major tax reforms that ease household expenses and empower businesses. Speaking in Arunachal Pradesh, he also laid foundation stones for projects worth ₹5,127 crore and inaugurated Tripura’s redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari temple.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called upon citizens to celebrate the newly launched Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms as a grand “GST Bachat Utsav” or “Savings Festival.” Addressing a massive public gathering at the Indira Gandhi Park in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, the Prime Minister declared that the reforms would benefit the poor, middle class, women, farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs, making the occasion a “memorable milestone” in India’s journey of economic transformation.
Launch of GST ‘Savings Festival’
PM Modi affirmed that the introduction of next-generation GST reforms, effective from Monday, represents a major relief for households and businesses alike. He said essential items such as kitchen supplies, children’s educational materials, footwear, and clothing would now be more affordable.
The Prime Minister highlighted that GST has been simplified into just two slabs — 5 percent and 18 percent. Many essential goods have been made tax-free, while tax rates on other items have been substantially reduced. Everyday activities such as building a home, purchasing a scooter or bike, dining at restaurants, or travelling are now expected to cost less, thereby directly benefiting citizens across all sections of society.
“This festival of savings will bring joy, prosperity, and success to every household in India,” PM Modi stated, urging the public to mark the occasion as a proud celebration.
Special Significance of the Day
PM Modi remarked that his visit to Arunachal Pradesh on the auspicious first day of Navratri made the event even more special. Referring to the worship of Goddess Shailputri, the daughter of the Himalayas, he said, “I had the privilege of witnessing the breathtaking mountain ranges on this sacred day.”
He further explained that the day carried three distinct milestones: the announcement of GST reforms and the launch of the “Savings Festival,” the laying of foundation stones for major development projects in Arunachal Pradesh, and the celebration of Navratri. He described it as a “double bonanza” for citizens during the festive season.
Interaction with Traders and Artisans
Before addressing the crowd, PM Modi visited a local exhibition showcasing products by traders, craftspersons, and artisans. He interacted directly with small business owners, local taxpayers, and industry representatives to discuss the impact of GST reforms.
The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem and ensuring ease of doing business across India. By reducing tax burdens and simplifying compliance, the reforms aim to empower local businesses and artisans, enabling them to compete more effectively in national and global markets.
Development Push in Arunachal Pradesh
During the event, PM Modi virtually laid the foundation stones for 13 development projects worth over ₹5,127 crore across Arunachal Pradesh. These projects span sectors such as power, connectivity, tourism, and healthcare, signaling a major infrastructure boost for the northeastern state.
The Prime Minister congratulated the people of Arunachal Pradesh, stating, “These projects reflect the double benefit of development under our governments at the Centre and the state.” He assured that the new initiatives would enhance opportunities for the youth, strengthen connectivity, and promote sustainable growth in the region.
Engaging the People
At the rally, Modi encouraged attendees to raise their hands with mobile flashlights in celebration, and thousands of people responded enthusiastically, creating a vibrant atmosphere. He also popularized the slogan “Garv se kahen, yeh swadeshi hai” (Say with pride, this is indigenous), underlining his vision of strengthening India’s self-reliance.
Acknowledging the large participation of women in the gathering, the Prime Minister reiterated that the GST reforms would particularly ease household expenses, reduce financial burdens, and improve overall affordability.
Tripura Visit and Mata Tripura Sundari Temple Inauguration
After completing his engagements in Arunachal Pradesh, PM Modi travelled to Tripura. From Agartala, he flew by helicopter to Udaipur in Gomati district and inaugurated the redeveloped Mata Tripura Sundari temple, about 65 kilometers south of Agartala.
The redeveloped temple, an important spiritual and cultural site, is expected to boost tourism and strengthen the state’s cultural heritage.
A Call for National Celebration
Concluding his address, PM Modi said the GST “Savings Festival” marks a turning point in India’s taxation and economic journey. By reducing costs, simplifying compliance, and empowering households, the reforms aim to strengthen the nation’s growth trajectory.
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| Also Read: PM Modi inaugurates redeveloped 524-year-old Tripura Sundari Temple |
“The GST ‘Savings Festival’ is not just a financial reform but a people’s celebration of empowerment and prosperity,” he said, urging every citizen to embrace the change and celebrate this milestone with pride.
