PM Modi Inaugurates UP International Trade Show, Highlights India’s Growth, Self-Reliance, and GST Reforms.
Greater Noida:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated and addressed the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show 2025 in Greater Noida, emphasizing India’s economic resilience, commitment to self-reliance, and the transformative impact of recent GST reforms.
Welcoming thousands of traders, entrepreneurs, and investors, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over the participation of more than 2,200 exhibitors at the event. He noted that this year’s edition is special with Russia as the country partner, strengthening the deep-rooted Indo-Russian partnership.
Antyodaya and Inclusive Growth
The Prime Minister underscored that the event coincides with the birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, who championed Antyodaya—upliftment of the poorest. Modi stated that India is now exporting this model of inclusive growth to the world, backed by open digital platforms such as UPI, Aadhaar, DigiLocker, and ONDC. These platforms, he said, are leveling the playing field for everyone—from street vendors to large enterprises—demonstrating the principle of “Platforms for All, Progress for All.”
Citing the success of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), he said nearly 25 lakh small sellers and service providers are now directly supplying goods and services to the government. Of the Rs. 15 lakh crore worth of procurement through GeM, Rs. 7 lakh crore has come from MSMEs and small businesses.
Call for Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Highlighting India’s ambitions to become a developed country by 2047, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). “Every product that can be made in India must be made in India,” he asserted, urging entrepreneurs to align their business models with national self-reliance goals.
He pointed to India’s progress in electronics manufacturing, noting that the country is now the world’s second-largest mobile phone producer—with Uttar Pradesh alone accounting for 55% of domestic output. He also announced the launch of a major semiconductor manufacturing facility nearby, which will further strengthen India’s capabilities in advanced tech manufacturing.
Defence Sector and ‘Made in India’
Touching on India’s growing defence sector, the Prime Minister emphasized the government’s goal of reducing import dependence. He said that India is creating a vibrant defence manufacturing ecosystem where every component carries the “Made in India” label. The AK-203 rifle production unit, in collaboration with Russia, and the Defence Corridor in Uttar Pradesh were cited as examples. Manufacturing of BrahMos missiles and other systems has already begun, he added.
GST Reforms and Public Savings
A major highlight of the address was the rollout of next-generation GST reforms on September 22. Modi described these as structural changes aimed at boosting business ease, accelerating refunds for MSMEs, and cutting down on tax disputes.
He illustrated how GST has significantly reduced tax burdens across various products. For instance, a shirt priced at ₹1,000 that previously incurred Rs. 170 in taxes before 2014 now attracts just Rs. 35 in tax. Similarly, household essentials that cost Rs. 131 in 2014 now cost only Rs. 105 due to reduced GST.
Modi added that under the new tax regime, a family that spent Rs. 1 lakh annually on essentials is now saving Rs.15,000–Rs.20,000 compared to a decade ago. Tractors are now over Rs. 40,000 cheaper in tax terms, while scooters and motorcycles cost Rs. 8,000–Rs.9,000 less due to revised GST rates. He emphasized that these savings directly benefit the poor and the middle class.
Investment Potential of Uttar Pradesh
Lauding Uttar Pradesh’s development, Modi said the state is now a national leader in connectivity, with the highest number of expressways and international airports. It serves as a key node in two dedicated freight corridors and is witnessing a tourism boom, thanks to initiatives like Namami Gange. The “One District, One Product” scheme, he added, has brought local UP products to global markets.
He encouraged investors to tap into UP’s extensive MSME network and growing industrial base. “Investing in India—and especially in Uttar Pradesh—is a win-win,” he declared.
Reforms, Stability, and Opportunity
The Prime Minister concluded his address by reaffirming that India offers unmatched opportunities, driven by political stability, reform-oriented governance, and a young, skilled workforce. “India today has a strong will for reforms and a clear vision for the future,” he said, urging global investors to seize the moment.
The event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries.
