PM Modi to Address Nation at 5 PM Today: What to Expect from the Speech
PM Modi’s 5 PM Address Sparks Speculation Ahead of GST 2.0 Rollout
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 5 PM today, September 21, 2025, and the subject of his speech remains undisclosed. This has triggered widespread speculation, especially as the address comes just a day before the rollout of the much-anticipated GST 2.0 reforms. With major changes to India’s tax structure set to begin on the first day of Navratri, many expect the Prime Minister to speak on economic reforms, GST rate cuts, and possibly the recent developments around the US H1B visa policy that could impact thousands of Indian tech professionals.
Why the Timing Matters: Navratri, GST Reforms & Global Headlines
The timing of PM Modi’s address is significant for several reasons:
- GST 2.0 reforms go live tomorrow, simplifying the tax structure and reducing prices on essential goods.
- Navratri begins, marking a high-consumption festive season.
- US H1B visa fee hike and tariff tensions with Washington are making headlines, potentially affecting Indian professionals and trade.
This combination of domestic and international developments makes today’s address one of the most anticipated in recent months.
A Look Back: PM Modi’s Landmark Addresses
PM Modi has a history of using national addresses to announce major decisions:
| Date | Announcement |
|---|---|
| Nov 8, 2016 | Demonetisation of ₹500 and ₹1000 notes |
| Mar 12, 2019 | Balakot airstrikes after Pulwama attack |
| Mar 24, 2020 | Nationwide COVID-19 lockdown |
| Apr 14, 2020 | Lockdown extension |
| May 2020 | Lockdown easing measures |
| May 12, 2025 | Operation Sindoor counterstrike briefing |
Each of these speeches marked a turning point in India’s policy or response to crises, adding weight to today’s upcoming address.
GST 2.0 Reforms: What’s Changing from September 22
The GST Council has announced a major overhaul of India’s indirect tax system. Here’s what you need to know:
New GST Slabs:
- 5% and 18%: These two slabs will now cover the majority of goods and services.
- 40%: Introduced for ultra-luxury items.
- 28% + cess: Reserved for tobacco and other sin goods.
Items Becoming Cheaper:
- Kitchen staples: Ghee, ketchup, coffee, paneer
- Electronics: Appliances, gadgets
- Healthcare: Medicines
- Automobiles: Cars, especially during Dhanteras offers
This reform is expected to boost consumption, especially during the festive season, and simplify compliance for businesses.
Festive Bonanza: Car Buyers to Benefit Big
One of the biggest winners of GST 2.0 is the automobile sector. Tax rates on cars have been slashed, and several manufacturers have already announced price cuts. This is expected to:
- Drive up car sales during Dhanteras and Diwali
- Make mid-range and entry-level vehicles more affordable
- Encourage first-time buyers and rural consumers
Global Angle: H1B Visa Fee Hike & Trade Tensions
The US government’s decision to hike the H1B visa application fee to $100,000 has sparked concern across India. With over 70% of H1B visas going to Indian professionals, this move could:
- Disrupt tech workforce mobility
- Impact remittances and family reunions
- Trigger diplomatic and trade responses from India
The Prime Minister may address this issue, especially given its humanitarian and economic implications.
GST Simplification: What Businesses Should Know
For businesses, GST 2.0 brings:
- Easier compliance with fewer slabs
- Removal of compensation cess
- Better input tax credit tracking
- Enhanced ease of doing business
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are expected to benefit the most, with reduced paperwork and clearer tax structures.
Where to Watch PM Modi’s Address
You can watch the Prime Minister’s address live at 5 PM on:
- PMO India’s official YouTube channel
- National news channels
- Social media platforms (X, Facebook)
The livestream is tagged with #NextGenGST, hinting at a strong focus on tax reforms.
What to Expect: Possible Topics in PM Modi’s Speech
While the subject remains officially unconfirmed, here are the top possibilities:
- GST 2.0 rollout and benefits
- Festive season economic stimulus
- Response to US H1B visa fee hike
- India-US trade relations and tariff updates
- New schemes for middle-class and youth
A Speech That Could Shape the Season
PM Modi’s address today is more than a routine announcement—it could set the tone for India’s festive economy, clarify global challenges, and offer reassurance to millions of citizens. Whether it’s GST reforms or international diplomacy, the nation will be watching closely.
As a Senior Journalist – My Thoughts
As a senior journalist who’s witnessed many of Prime Minister Modi’s landmark addresses—from the surprise demonetisation announcement in 2016 to the Balakot airstrike and COVID lockdown declarations—I’ve learned one thing: when he says “Mitraon…” at 8 PM, the nation braces for impact. Social media jokes aside, those moments have often signaled seismic shifts. But today feels different. With GST 2.0 reforms set to roll out from September 22—bringing tax relief on essentials and big-ticket items—and global developments like the US imposing 50% tariffs and hiking H1B visa fees to $100,000, Modi’s 5 PM address could be more about economic optimism than disruption. Let’s decode what might be coming.
