New GST Rates Bring Savings and Optimism as ‘GST Bachat Utsav’ Begins

The implementation of revised Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on September 22, marked the start of the “GST Bachat Utsav,” coinciding with the Navratri festival. The new GST rates, set at 5% and 18%, are designed to offer savings to consumers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his wishes, highlighting the importance of Swadeshi principles and a self-reliant nation. Consumers have begun to see immediate benefits. In Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, Alok Kumar Shrivastav pointed out that the reduced GST slabs are a boon for the poor and middle class, with lower prices on milk products and automobiles. Narsingh Pathak expressed that buyers of small cars could save up to Rs 80,000. Ravi Shankar Kumar noted that middle-class families in Delhi are also benefiting from cheaper dairy items. A shopkeeper named Naved, expressed support for the GST reforms. Farmers are welcoming the changes, with one farmer from Aligarh praising PM Modi. Another farmer explained the benefits for farmers.