GST reforms, Sept. 22 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an address to the country yesterday, asserted that the goods and services tax (GST) reforms coming into effect today, on September 22, will "accelerate India's growth story".

Highlighting it as a big stop towards "Aatmanirbhar Bharat", Modi encouraged support for swadeshi goods, adding that it will strengthen India's economy similar to the way it powered the freedom movement.

"A 'GST bachat utsav (savings festival)' will begin tomorrow. You will be able to buy things you like more easily. The poor, middle class, neo middle class, youths, farmers, women, traders and shopkeepers will benefit from this," he said.

Soft drinks such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi, as well as other non-alcoholi...