New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 5 pm today, the Prime Minister’s Office has announced. While the subject of the address has not been officially confirmed, the timing has sparked widespread speculation about its likely focus.
The address comes on the eve of the rollout of the much-anticipated GST 2.0 reforms, set to take effect tomorrow, coinciding with the first day of Navratri. The reforms are expected to slash GST rates across categories, making essential commodities, medicines, electronic appliances, and even cars more affordable. Experts believe the changes could provide a significant boost to consumption during the festive season.
Also Read: Sr. Journalist Paragmoni Aditya Calls for Full Investigation
Under GST 2.0, the four-tier tax structure of 5, 12, 18, and 28 percent will be replaced by just two slabs — 5 and 18 percent — covering most goods. Luxury items, however, will attract a higher tax rate of 40 percent. Among the items set to become cheaper are kitchen staples such as ghee, coffee, ketchup, and paneer. Automobiles are also likely to see major price cuts, with several manufacturers already announcing reductions ahead of Dhanteras.
Apart from GST, other subjects being speculated upon include India’s trade tussle with Washington and the recent U.S. crackdown on H-1B visa holders, a move that directly impacts thousands of Indian tech professionals.
Since taking office in 2014, PM Modi has used national addresses to announce major decisions. These include the November 2016 demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes, the March 2019 announcement of the Balakot airstrikes, and the 2020 nationwide lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. His most recent address on May 12, 2025, briefed the nation on Operation Sindoor, India’s counterstrike following the Pahalgam terror attack.
With GST 2.0 set to reshape India’s tax landscape, today’s address is being closely watched by citizens, businesses, and policymakers alike.
