Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday highlighted the transformative impact of the latest Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, stating that they have given India’s economy a renewed boost, especially in generating employment and strengthening the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) and retail sectors. Speaking virtually at the 17th Rozgar Mela, the Prime Minister emphasized that the government’s policies are guided by a singular focus — empowering the youth of India and ensuring inclusive economic growth.

During his address, Modi underlined how the “next-generation GST reforms” have not only simplified taxation and improved compliance but also expanded economic opportunities across sectors. According to the Prime Minister, the reforms are part of a broader economic strategy designed to enhance efficiency, promote transparency, and create a business environment conducive to innovation and job creation.

A New Momentum for the Indian Economy

PM Modi described the recent GST reforms as a “landmark step” that is propelling India’s economic progress beyond traditional expectations. “These reforms go far beyond just increasing people’s savings. They are expanding opportunities for employment and growth across various industries,” he said. Citing the record sales seen during the recent festive season, he noted, “We recently saw record sales on Dhanteras and Diwali, setting new benchmarks and breaking old records. This demonstrates how the GST reforms have given the country’s economy a new impetus.”

According to the Prime Minister, the strong consumer spending witnessed during the festive period is a reflection of growing economic confidence among citizens and the business community. The implementation of technology-driven tax reforms, along with digital payment systems and simplified return processes, has made it easier for businesses—particularly small and medium enterprises—to operate efficiently. These measures have led to improved cash flow, faster transactions, and greater formalization of the economy, all of which contribute to sustainable growth.

Expanding Opportunities in MSME and Retail Sectors

PM Modi stressed that the benefits of GST reforms are being clearly felt in the MSME and retail sectors, which together form the backbone of India’s economy. These sectors, he said, are witnessing a surge in job creation, especially in manufacturing, logistics, packaging, and distribution. “The positive effects of the reforms are visible in the MSME sector and retail trade, where new jobs are being created and local enterprises are finding new markets,” Modi noted.

The Prime Minister also pointed out that India’s MSME sector has been one of the largest beneficiaries of the government’s push towards digitalization and formalization. With simpler tax structures and reduced compliance burdens, small businesses are now better positioned to expand and compete both domestically and globally. This, in turn, has led to higher production, increased exports, and a multiplier effect on employment.

He added that the government’s broader policy framework—ranging from financial inclusion initiatives to skill development programs—was designed to ensure that the country’s economic growth translates into tangible benefits for ordinary citizens. The aim, he said, is to build a resilient economy where growth is both equitable and sustainable.

Empowering the Youth Through Employment and Skills

The 17th edition of the Rozgar Mela, a flagship initiative aimed at providing government employment opportunities, saw the distribution of more than 51,000 appointment letters to newly recruited candidates across the country. Since its inception, the Rozgar Mela has become a key platform for promoting employment generation, and so far, over 11 lakh appointment letters have been distributed under the initiative.

Modi reiterated that empowering India’s youth remains at the core of the government’s vision for the future. “Empowering the youth is a priority of the BJP-led NDA government,” he declared. “India is the youngest nation in the world, and the strength of its youth is one of its greatest assets. Our policies are designed to harness this demographic dividend and ensure that every young person has access to opportunities for growth and advancement.”

The Prime Minister noted that apart from direct employment initiatives like the Rozgar Mela, the government has been focusing on developing a skilled workforce through programs such as Skill India, Make in India, and Start-up India. These efforts are creating an ecosystem where innovation, entrepreneurship, and productivity thrive together.

He emphasized that modern reforms, such as those in GST and digital governance, are enabling new sectors to emerge as engines of employment. From e-commerce and logistics to manufacturing and clean energy, India’s growing industries are generating millions of new jobs that align with the aspirations of the younger generation.

Global Partnerships and New Opportunities for India’s Youth

In his address, Prime Minister Modi also highlighted the growing international recognition of India’s economic reforms and the resulting expansion of global partnerships. Referring to the recent visit of the British Prime Minister, Modi said, “During his visit, India and the UK agreed to increase investment in sectors like artificial intelligence, fintech, and clean energy. The free trade agreement signed a few months ago will also create new opportunities for our youth.”

He explained that such international collaborations not only strengthen India’s export capabilities but also open new doors for Indian professionals to work on cutting-edge projects around the world. “These collaborations will strengthen exports and open up new avenues of growth and opportunity for India’s youth,” the Prime Minister stated.

Modi added that the government’s proactive engagement with global partners in emerging sectors such as digital technology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing will continue to create high-value employment opportunities in the coming years. These initiatives, he said, will also help Indian youth acquire global skills, build international experience, and contribute to nation-building.

GST Reforms as a Catalyst for Inclusive Growth

The Prime Minister described the next-generation GST reforms as a symbol of India’s ability to adapt and modernize its economic systems. By integrating technology and simplifying compliance procedures, the reforms have reduced inefficiencies and corruption, paving the way for a more transparent and predictable business environment.

He observed that the success of GST is reflected not only in rising tax collections but also in the growing formalization of the economy. More businesses are entering the tax net, digital transactions have become the norm, and government revenues are being reinvested in infrastructure, healthcare, and social welfare programs—all of which contribute to overall national development.

According to the Prime Minister, these reforms are central to achieving the government’s broader goal of making India a global economic powerhouse. “Our aim is to create a tax system that is simple, fair, and growth-oriented,” he said. “The benefits of these reforms are reaching the common people, as reflected in the increased purchasing power and improved business sentiment.”

A Vision for the Future

Concluding his address, PM Modi reiterated his government’s commitment to building a strong, self-reliant, and inclusive India. He emphasized that initiatives like the Rozgar Mela, GST reforms, and international partnerships are all part of a cohesive vision aimed at unlocking the country’s vast potential.

He expressed confidence that with continued reforms, strategic investments, and youth empowerment, India is on track to become one of the world’s leading economies. “Our journey towards a developed India by 2047 is being powered by the hard work, innovation, and spirit of our youth,” he said. “Together, we are building a future where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to the nation’s progress.”

Union ministers Jitendra Singh and Ajay Tamta, who were present at the Rozgar Mela in New Delhi, handed over appointment letters to the new recruits as part of the nationwide event. The ceremony, attended by thousands of candidates across various states, symbolized the government’s ongoing efforts to connect economic reforms with tangible job opportunities, reaffirming that India’s growth story is as much about its people as it is about policy.