Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 5 pm today, ahead of GST rate cuts from September 22, amid US tariff threats and H-1B visa fee hike.
PM Narendra Modi to Address Nation at 5 PM Today
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 5 pm on Sunday, September 21, a day before India rolls out significant GST reforms. The address comes at a time when global and domestic economic developments are making headlines — from US tariff hikes to the sharp increase in H-1B visa fees.
The Prime Minister’s speech is expected to focus on upcoming economic changes, consumer relief through GST rate cuts, and India’s stance on international trade pressures.
Key Highlights
- PM Modi to address the nation at 5 pm on September 21.
- GST reforms effective from September 22: two-tier system at 5% & 18%, luxury items at 40%, and sin goods at 28% + cess.
- US tariffs on Indian goods and oil imports reach 50%.
- H-1B visa fee hike to $100,000, raising concerns for Indian IT professionals.
- Address comes during a crucial economic juncture for India.
GST Reforms from September 22
From September 22, India will implement GST 2.0, marking one of the biggest tax reforms since its introduction. Under the new structure, GST will operate on a two-tier slab system with 5% and 18% rates for most goods and services.
- Ultra-luxury items will face a 40% tax rate.
- Tobacco and sin goods will remain under the 28% plus cess category.
- Consumers are expected to benefit as several essential items will become cheaper.
This move is being seen as a major relief for households, especially since the reforms coincide with the beginning of Navaratri festivities.
US Tariffs and H-1B Visa Fee Hike
Adding to the economic backdrop, US President Donald Trump recently announced steep tariff measures against India:
- A 25% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods.
- An additional 25% duty on Russian oil imports, raising the total tariff burden to 50%.
In a separate development, the US also announced a $100,000 fee hike on H-1B visa applications. Since nearly 72% of H-1B visas are issued to Indians, the move has triggered concerns among tech professionals, Indian IT companies, and families dependent on overseas remittances.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has called the decision unfair and disruptive, urging US authorities to reconsider the measure.
A Crucial Address
The last time PM Modi addressed the nation was after India and Pakistan reached a bilateral understanding following cross-border tensions in May. His upcoming speech, however, is expected to carry a strong economic message.
With GST rate cuts set to reshape household budgets and US policies adding global uncertainty, the Prime Minister’s words will be closely watched by businesses, policymakers, and citizens alike.