Calling the goods and services tax (GST) reforms a "savings festival", Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that these reforms would lead to savings of a substantial ₹2.5 lakh crore. “In this GST Bachat Utsav, your savings will increase, and you will be able to buy things of your choice more easily,” PM Modi said, adding that poor families, the neo-middle class, farmers, women, traders, and entrepreneurs will all benefit from the next generation of GST changes.

In his address to the nation, the PM said the reforms, along with the income tax reliefs announced over the past year, will give a budgetary boost of more than ₹2.5 lakh crore to citizens. “This reform will accelerate India’s growth story, make business easier, and make investment more attractive. It will ensure that every state competes equally in the race for development,” said PM Modi. He also recalled the struggles of the pre-GST era of multiple taxes and check posts while addressing the nation.

The GST reforms will take effect from Monday, September 22, 2025, coinciding with the first day of Navratri. “Tomorrow, along with sunrise, the next generation of GST reforms will be implemented. In a way, the GST festival is about to begin,” PM Modi said.

He highlighted that the new structure would make products like houses, vehicles, hotel stays, and household items cheaper. “When GST rates are reduced and procedures become easier, the dreams of every citizen, from buying a scooter to owning a house, will be easier to fulfil,” said Modi.

Besides, he also small businesses to do well, saying that the reforms would particularly help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). “If GST rates are reduced and rules simplified, our MSMEs will benefit the most. Their sales will rise and taxes will fall, giving them a double benefit,” he said.

Pitching for a stronger Make in India and Swadeshi drive, PM Modi also urged the people to prefer Indian goods. “We should buy the things that are made in India, in which the hard work of our country's youth, the sweat of our country's sons and daughters, is involved. We have to make every house a symbol of Swadeshi. Every shop has to be decorated with Swadeshi,” he emphasised. He also appealed to the states to boost manufacturing and create a conducive environment for investment.

The PM concluded his speech by wishing everyone a happy Navratri and expressing his sincere gratitude to all for the GST Bachat Utsav.