New Delhi: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the National Awardee Teachers at New Delhi, today. Shri Modi lauded the natural respect Indian society holds for teachers, calling them a powerful force in nation-building. He emphasized that honoring teachers is not merely a ritual but a recognition of their lifelong dedication and impact.
The Prime Minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to all recipients of the National Teachers’ Awards. He stated that their selection is a recognition of their hard work and unwavering dedication. The Prime Minister highlighted that teachers not only shape the present but also mould the future of the nation making their role one of the highest forms of national service. He further noted that millions of teachers across the country, like this year’s awardees, are devoted to education with sincerity, commitment, and a spirit of service. On this occasion, he also paid tribute to the contributions of all such educators involved in nation-building.
The Prime Minister lauded the enduring role of teachers in India’s progress, stating that the nation has always revered the Guru-Shishya tradition. In India, a Guru is not merely a provider of knowledge but a guide for life. “As we move forward with the vision of building a developed India, this tradition remains our strength. Teachers like you are living embodiments of this heritage. You are not only imparting literacy but also instilling the spirit of living for the nation in the younger generation,” Shri Modi stated.
The Prime Minister emphasized that teachers are the foundation of a strong nation and an empowered society. He noted that teachers are also sensitive to the need for timely changes in curricula and syllabi, aligning education with the evolving demands of the time. “This same spirit is reflected in the reforms being undertaken for the nation. Reforms must be continuous and relevant to the times, this is the firm commitment of our government,” he added.
Recalling his commitment from the Red Fort to make India self-reliant through structural reforms, the Prime Minister stated, ““I had promised that before Diwali and Chhath Puja, there would be a double celebration for the people. In line with that spirit, the GST Council has taken a landmark decision. GST has now become even simpler. There are now mainly two GST slabs, 5% and 18%. These new rates will come into effect from Monday, 22nd September, the first day of Navratri.” The Prime Minister emphasized that from the beginning of Navratri, essential items for crores of families will become more affordable. He added that this year’s Dhanteras will be more vibrant, as tax on dozens of goods has been significantly reduced.
Shri Modi stated that GST was one of the biggest economic reforms in independent India. It freed the country from a complex web of multiple taxes. Now, as India advances into the 21st century, this new phase of GST reform being referred to by some in the media as ‘GST 2.0’ is truly a double dose of support and growth. The reform offers dual benefits of increased savings for common families and strengthening of economic momentum. “The move is expected to provide substantial relief to the poor, neo-middle class, middle class, farmers, women, students, and youth.Young professionals starting new jobs will especially benefit from the reduction in vehicle tax.This decision will make it easier for families to manage household budgets and improve their quality of life,” Shri Modi said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the transformational tax reforms undertaken by the NDA government, stating that massive GST reductions have significantly lowered the financial burden on Indian households. Shri Modi highlighted that prior to 2014, under the Congress-led government, essential goods and daily-use items were heavily taxed. Products like toothpaste, soap, utensils, bicycles, and even children’s candy attracted tax rates ranging from 17% to 28%. Basic services such as hotel stays also incurred steep taxes, including additional state-level levies. “If the same tax regime had continued, people would still be paying ₹20–₹25 in taxes for every ₹100 spent. In contrast, under the BJP-led NDA government, GST on such goods and services has been reduced to just 5%, ensuring direct relief for millions of families across the country” Shri Modi stated.
The Prime Minister emphasized that these reforms reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to boosting household savings and easing the cost of living, especially for the middle class, farmers, women, and young professionals.
The Prime Minister noted that before 2014, medical treatment remained out of reach for many, with the Congress government imposing a 16% tax on diagnostic kits. This has now been reduced to just 5%, making basic healthcare more accessible to the poor and middle class. “Under the previous regime, building a home was a costly affair. Cement was taxed at 29%, and appliances like ACs and TVs at 31%. Our government has brought these rates down to 18%, easing the cost of living for millions”, Shri Modi stated.
The Prime Minister also addressed the plight of farmers under the earlier tax regime, where essential equipment like tractors, irrigation tools, and pumping sets attracted 12%–14% taxes. Shri Modi underscored that today, most of these items are taxed at either 0% or 5%, significantly reducing farming costs and supporting rural livelihoods. The reforms are part of the government’s broader commitment to improving household budgets, empowering farmers, and enhancing quality of life across the country.
The Prime Minister stated that sectors employing a large workforce like textiles, handicrafts, and leather have been given significant relief through reduced GST rates. These reforms will not only benefit workers and entrepreneurs in these industries but also lead to lower prices for essential goods like clothing and footwear. “For startups, MSMEs, and small traders, the government has combined tax reductions with streamlined procedures, ensuring ease of business and enhanced operational flexibility”, Shri Modi added. Recognizing the growing focus on wellness, the Prime Minister announced lower GST on services like gyms, salons, and yoga, encouraging fitness among the youth. Shri Modi emphasised that these reforms are part of the broader agenda to build a Viksit Bharat, where youth, enterprise, and health are key national priorities.
The Prime Minister described the latest GST reforms as a historic step forward in India’s economic transformation, stating that the reforms have added “five key gems” to the country’s thriving economy. “First, the tax system has become significantly simpler. Second, the quality of life for Indian citizens will further improve. Third, consumption and economic growth will receive a new booster.
Fourth, ease of doing business will strengthen, leading to more investments and job creation. Fifth, the spirit of cooperative federalism, partnership between the Centre and the States will be further reinforced, which is vital for a Developed India”, Shri Modi underscored.