PM Modi Launches “GST Utsav” from Navratri, Calls It a Nationwide Festival of Savings

New Delhi — September 21, 2025 Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Sunday the launch of a nationwide “GST Utsav”, beginning from the first day of Navratri on Monday, September 22. The initiative, aimed at highlighting the benefits of recent GST reforms, has been described by the Prime Minister as a festival of savings for all Indians. Addressing the nation, PM Modi emphasized that the “GST Utsav” will allow citizens to buy a variety of goods at lower prices, thanks to the implementation of the new GST rate structure. “Starting tomorrow, you will be able to purchase your favorite items with ease. This initiative is like a festival of savings for every Indian,” he said. The GST reforms, part of what the government refers to as GST 2.0, were approved during the 56th GST Council meeting, reflecting broad consensus between the Centre and state governments. The new system introduces a simplified tax structure with two main slabs of 5% and 18%, while a 40% rate is applied only to super-luxury, sin, and demerit goods. This rationalization is expected to make compliance easier for businesses and bring transparency to the tax regime. The government had earlier announced the rate cuts on September 3, covering a wide array of goods including automobiles, electronics, essential daily-use items, and consumer products. According to officials, these reductions are particularly beneficial for the poor and the emerging middle class, who will now enjoy lower prices on necessities as well as discretionary items. PM Modi noted that the GST Utsav is not just about consumer savings but also about economic growth and ease of living. The reforms are expected to boost consumption, stimulate manufacturing, and support farmers, MSMEs, women, youth, and middle-class families. Officials also indicated that the simplified structure will help reduce tax litigation and compliance costs for businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises. In preparation for the launch, the government has asked businesses, both online and offline, to highlight GST-compliant products and offer clear pricing to customers. Retailers are expected to participate actively, promoting special discounts and offers under the “GST Utsav” banner. Analysts believe this initiative could lead to a significant increase in consumer spending, coinciding with the festive shopping season of Navratri and Diwali. Industry experts also welcomed the move, stating that the simplification of GST slabs will reduce confusion and encourage more traders to come under the formal tax net. “With fewer tax rates and better clarity, the new GST system will encourage businesses to expand, which in turn benefits consumers,” said a senior commerce analyst. The Prime Minister further highlighted that these reforms demonstrate cooperative federalism, as the decisions were jointly made by the Centre and the states through the GST Council. “The objective is to make goods cheaper, support industries, and strengthen India’s economy,” PM Modi stated, underlining the inclusive nature of the reforms. The “GST Utsav” is expected to become an annual event where citizens can directly experience the benefits of tax reforms. In addition to consumer advantages, it also serves as an awareness campaign about the importance of GST compliance and its role in nation-building. With the launch coinciding with Navratri, a festival of cultural significance and increased shopping activity, the government aims to combine festive spirit with economic benefits, ensuring that the advantages of tax reforms reach all segments of society—from urban middle-class households to rural consumers. The initiative has generated excitement across the country, with retail outlets and e-commerce platforms preparing to roll out promotional campaigns under the GST Utsav banner. Citizens are expected to see immediate price reductions, making the event a practical demonstration of the government’s commitment to consumer welfare and economic development.