New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced major upcoming reforms to the Goods and Services Tax (GST), stating that the draft proposals have already been shared with state governments. He emphasized that the next-generation GST reforms would benefit businesses as well as low- and middle-income citizens, while simplifying the GST framework and rationalizing tax rates.
Speaking after inaugurating two major highway projects in Delhi, PM Modi said the reforms indicate progress and aim to make business operations easier and more efficient. “We are ready with the next-generation GST framework. By the upcoming Diwali, these reforms will deliver double benefits. The draft has been circulated to central and state governments, and we expect all states to cooperate. I appeal to complete this process as soon as possible,” he said.
The GST Council is scheduled to meet next month to discuss the proposed measures. The draft suggests moving to a two-tier slab system, which would remove the current 12% and 28% slabs from the existing four-tier structure. Officials noted that discussions and consultations on the reforms have been ongoing for nearly six months before the policy was finalized, marking it as a significant step toward simplifying GST administration.
In addition to his GST remarks, PM Modi inaugurated two major highway projects worth ₹11,000 crore, highlighting their role in improving connectivity and reducing traffic congestion in Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region. He noted that the new roads would facilitate smoother travel from Sonipat, Bahadurgarh, Gurugram, and Rohtak to Indira Gandhi International Airport, enhancing convenience for commuters across the region.