VARANASI: The new GST slab exemption announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially come into effect from Monday, bringing visible relief to the citizens of his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi. Locals are celebrating the move as a 'Savings Festival, ' marking a shift toward affordability and economic optimism.
From temple priests to restaurant owners and grocery shopkeepers, the sentiment is unanimous — this tax relief is a welcome gift, especially as it coincides with the beginning of Navratri.
“This decision will definitely boost business and offer direct benefits to consumers, ” said Sheetala Prasad Upadhyay, a local restaurant owner. “Cheese, butter, pulses, rice — everything has become more affordable.”
Vinod Kannaujiya, who runs a general store, echoed the sentiment: “Reducing the GST is a great initiative. It’s a relief for common people and deserves to be celebrated as a ‘Savings Festival.’”
For Tulsi, a temple priest, the timing of the announcement is spiritually significant.
“On the first day of Navratri, this is great news. GST has been reduced on natural items used in puja rituals. This strengthens Sanatan Dharma. I thank PM Modi for this, " he told IANS.
Citizens like Sunil Upadhyay view the change as a festive gift.
“From day one of Navratri, GST cuts will make daily essentials more affordable. This is a huge benefit for the common man.”
Meanwhile, India's revamped Goods and Services Tax system, dubbed next-generation GST or "GST Bachat Utsav", was implemented, reducing taxes on around 370 products, including daily essentials and lifesaving medicines.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the overhaul aims to inject approximately Rs 2 lakh crore into the economy by increasing the disposable income of consumers.