In a nationally televised address timed with the onset of Navratri, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the rollout of Next-Generation GST reforms, branding it the ‘GST Bachat Utsav’—a savings festival aimed at making goods more affordable and boosting economic growth.

Modi hailed the move as a “double bonanza” for the middle class and poor, citing projected savings of ₹2.5 lakh crore through simplified tax slabs and reduced rates on essential items. He emphasized the reforms as a step toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat, invoking the spirit of Swadeshi and the role of MSMEs in driving self-reliance2.

However, the announcement drew sharp criticism from opposition parties:

• Congress accused the government of offering a “band-aid” fix after years of flawed GST implementation. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge demanded an apology for taxing basic necessities, calling the original GST a “Gabbar Singh Tax”.
• Jairam Ramesh slammed Modi for claiming sole credit, arguing that the GST Council—a constitutional body—was responsible for the changes. He reiterated Congress’s long-standing demand for a “GST 2.0”.
• AAP mocked the timing of the speech, suggesting it was scheduled early to avoid clashing with the India vs Pakistan cricket match, and criticized the PM for ignoring pressing international trade issues.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders and NDA allies celebrated the reforms as a landmark achievement. Uttar Pradesh Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya praised the initiative for empowering the poor to afford high-end goods, while Janata Dal (United) called it a festive gift to the nation