NEW DELHI: The 7th meeting of the National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB) was held at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi, under the chairmanship of Shri Sunil J. Singhi. The session highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to empower traders and promote Indian-made products under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.
During the meeting, a poster titled ‘Garv Se Kaho, Ye Swadeshi Hai’ was unveiled, encouraging citizens to take pride in locally manufactured goods. The campaign echoes the Prime Minister’s call to strengthen indigenous industries. Board members pledged to act as ambassadors for the initiative to expand its reach nationwide.
Chairman Sunil J. Singhi lauded the recently implemented Next-Gen GST Reforms (effective from September 22, 2025), describing them as a transformative step benefiting both consumers and traders. The reforms have reduced GST rates on over 375 essential and consumer goods, making products such as cars, stationery, clothing, medicines, and tractors more affordable.
He also highlighted the ‘GST Bachat Utsav’, a traders-led nationwide campaign celebrating these reforms, which have led to significant savings — including ₹70,000 for small car buyers and 7–12% reductions on daily-use items.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to ease of doing business, Shri Singhi emphasized continued efforts toward simplification of procedures, reducing compliance burdens, and improving financial and infrastructural support for the trading community.
Representations from various trade bodies have been forwarded to concerned ministries for necessary action, with an open call for further suggestions to enhance awareness of welfare schemes in the retail and trading sectors.
