Yogi hails GST reforms as ‘Diwali gift’ from PM Modi

Lucknow, Sep 18: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday welcomed the recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, describing them as a “Diwali gift” from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the nation.

Addressing a news conference, he said the measures, effective from September 22, will provide relief from inflation, boost trade, and ease the lives of ordinary citizens.

The CM noted that the four-tier GST structure has now been simplified into two slabs – 5 percent and 18 percent while the highest 40 percent rate will remain on select luxury items.

Adityanath highlighted benefits for households, farmers, students, and businesses, with lower taxes on essential goods, farm equipment, medicines, insurance, and vehicles, while harmful products like tobacco will see higher levies. He also stressed the positive impact on Uttar Pradesh’s economy, particularly its industries under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme. Calling the decision historic, he thanked Prime Minister Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, saying the reforms would directly strengthen consumption, industry, and employment while giving a major push to India’s growth story.