Jagan hails GST 2.0 as ‘Revolutionary’ move for India

Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, President of the YSR Congress Party and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, welcomed the Centre’s launch of the “Next Generation GST Reforms,” describing them as a revolutionary step toward a simpler and fairer tax system.

“The GST restructuring is a revolutionary step. It will make goods and services more affordable for every citizen. Minor glitches may occur initially, but the benefits will reach consumers once implemented effectively,” Jagan said in a statement on X. He emphasized that the reforms would provide a strong boost to both consumption and investment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the reforms on the first day of Navratri, linking them to the broader Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. “The Next Generation GST reforms will ensure savings and transparency, benefiting the poor, middle class, farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs. It is a ‘GST Bachat Utsav’ for every household,” he said.

Opposition leaders criticized the reforms, with Congress leader Jairam Ramesh recalling Modi’s earlier opposition to GST as Gujarat Chief Minister and noting that calls for reform by Congress were largely ignored for years.

Economic experts and business groups have cautiously welcomed GST 2.0, noting that it simplifies compliance for small traders, rationalizes rates for daily-use goods, and streamlines input tax credit procedures. Dr. Anjali Mehra, a tax policy analyst, said, “If implemented effectively, these reforms could spur consumption and investment.”

Jagan expressed hope that the changes would strengthen India’s economic growth while ensuring benefits reach ordinary households and small businesses. “This reform is an opportunity to make life more affordable and business easier for millions,” he said.