GST 2.0 created ‘global buzz’, stands as symbol of progressive economic vision: FM

Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman, on Friday elaborated on the recently launched GST 2.0, noting that it has created a remarkable global buzz and stands as a symbol of India’s progressive economic vision.

She highlighted that the reform has generated significant employment opportunities during the festive season of Navratri and Diwali and has made life easier for the common man, a fact reflected in the surge of purchases, production, and online transactions following its implementation.

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Sitharaman further commended the CBIC for its efficiency and appreciated the successful rollout of GST 2.0 ahead of the Diwali deadline set by the Prime Minister.

Sitharaman’s remarks came during the inauguration of the newly constructed Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Bhawan. The CGST Bhawan is located on Rani Jhansi Marg (Hapur Chungi), Ghaziabad.

During his speech at the launch, Sitharaman lauded the efforts of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and its field formations in strengthening India’s tax administration and advancing a transparent, citizen-centric governance framework. She emphasised on technology-driven compliance with simplified procedures, enhanced transparency, and voluntary participation among taxpayers.

The Finance Minister stated that timely disciplinary action shows that the institution holds its own officers to high standards of professionalism and integrity, and added that disciplinary proceedings against the officials at different levels in the CGST field formations should be concluded expeditiously in a time-bound manner within prescribed timelines given by DoPT and CVC.

“Swift conclusion of disciplinary proceedings reinforces accountability within the organisation,” she said.

Sitharaman noted that these proceedings send a clear message that misconduct, dereliction of duty, or unethical behaviour will not be tolerated.

“Prolonged proceedings unfairly affect the morale and reputation of the officers involved – particularly the innocent. For those wrongfully accused, early closure brings relief and restoration of dignity,” she added.

The Minister stressed the need for the next generation revenue infrastructure to work in tune with the next generation taxation, and called for greater empathy, greater courtesy, and greater integrity on the part of all tax officers.

She said that the ultimate goal of reforms is to make life easier for honest taxpayers and make them feel comfortable about every change being made in the existing statutory framework.

She described the new CGST Bhawan, Ghaziabad, as a symbol of modern India’s commitment to good governance — where infrastructure meets innovation and efficiency aligns with empathy.