GST reforms a "Diwali dhamaka", will boost consumption and employment: Eknath Shinde

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 22 (ANI): Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of the new GST slab implementation from Monday and said that the reform were a revolutionary decision for the common man, the middle class, women, farmers, traders, small traders, shopkeepers, and this would boost consumption, production, and employment.
"I congratulate Prime Minister Narendra Modi. There were four slabs in the GST. He removed two slabs, leaving only two. This decision is truly revolutionary for the common man, the middle class, women, farmers, traders, small traders, shopkeepers, and everyone. This will boost consumption, production, and employment. That's why this is Modi's masterstroke. It's a masterstroke because it's a life-changing decision. The daily necessities have been made much cheaper. Therefore, this is a huge decision," Shinde said.
He called GST reforms a "Diwali Dhamaka". "No amount of thanks would be enough for him," Eknath Shinde said.
He further said that the opposition should welcome the decision as it had been taken for the welfare of 140 crore people.
The Prime Minister, during his address to the nation on Sunday, stated that reform is a continuous process, and as times change and national needs evolve, next-generation reforms become equally essential.
He noted that keeping in view the current requirements and future aspirations of the country, these new GST reforms are being implemented. PM Modi highlighted that under the new structure, only 5 per cent and 18 per cent tax slabs will primarily remain.
This, he remarked, means that most everyday-use items will become more affordable. He listed food items, medicines, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and health and life insurance among the many goods and services that will either be tax-free or attract only a 5 per cent tax. The Prime Minister further noted that of the items previously taxed at 12 per cent, 99 per cent--virtually all--have now been brought under the 5 per cent tax bracket. (ANI)