Consumers and Farmers Cheer as New GST Rates Take Effect During GST Bachat Utsav

As the “GST Bachat Utsav” commenced with the rollout of revised Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on September 22, coinciding with the first day of the Navratri festival, positive reactions were widespread. The new GST rates of 5% and 18% are designed to benefit consumers and businesses. Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the occasion, emphasizing its significance for Swadeshi initiatives and a self-reliant India. Consumers are reporting immediate benefits. Alok Kumar Shrivastav from Ayodhya highlighted savings on milk products and automobiles, benefiting the poor and middle class. Narsingh Pathak pointed out significant savings in the automobile sector, potentially saving up to Rs 80,000 on small cars. Ravi Shankar Kumar in Delhi, noted decreased prices on dairy products. Shopkeeper Naved expressed support for the reforms, anticipating lower milk prices. Farmers are also benefiting from the GST changes. A farmer from Aligarh praised PM Modi for the relief provided. Another farmer explained that the reforms would greatly benefit farmers.