| Staff REPORTER |
Itanagar, Sep 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday interacted with local traders, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in Itanagar, highlighting the transformative impact of the new GST reforms and the launch of the GST Bachat Utsav, officials said.
Ahead of his public address at Indira Gandhi Park, the Prime Minister visited exhibition stalls set up at the venue and held informal discussions with traders. He enquired in detail about locally made items on display, encouraging participants to promote indigenous products under the government’s Vocal for Local campaign.
Sharing his thoughts on social media, Modi posted: “Interacted with traders and entrepreneurs in Itanagar today. They expressed their appreciation for the GST reforms and the launch of the GST Bachat Utsav. They highlighted how these initiatives will benefit key sectors like fisheries, agriculture, and other local enterprises. I emphasised the importance of maintaining quality standards and nurturing a strong spirit of buying Made in India products.”
During the interaction, the Prime Minister asked traders how the GST reforms were helping their businesses. He stressed that India can achieve the goal of a Viksit Bharat only by embracing Swadeshi practices. “Buy Swadeshi and sell Swadeshi,” he urged.
Announcing the launch of the GST Bachat Utsav, Modi said the initiative marks a new chapter in India’s tax system—simpler, transparent, and more citizen-friendly. He said the reforms are aimed at directly reducing the tax burden on households and supporting small businesses.
A major relief announced under the reforms is the reduction of GST rates on automobiles, with two-wheelers and small cars now taxed at 18 percent instead of the earlier 28 percent. The Prime Minister said this will bring substantial savings to families while boosting demand in the sector.
Highlighting the wider impact, Modi said women will be among the biggest beneficiaries of the reforms, as they will reduce household expenses on essentials and improve purchasing power. Describing the GST Bachat Utsav as a “memorable milestone for households across the country,” he added that the reforms will strengthen both the economy and the spirit of self-reliance.