Network18 is set to host Reforms Reloaded 2025 in Delhi on September 22, 2025, a summit focusing on India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms and broader economic growth. The event will gather industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the latest GST reforms, share perspectives on the government's economic vision, and explore strategies for India's future economic progress. Reforms Reloaded 2025 will highlight GST 2.0, Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), Make in India, and India's Vision 2030, aiming to shape a resilient and innovation-driven economy. The event will be broadcast live on Network18 channels starting at 11:00 AM.

GST Reforms and Economic Impact

The summit occurs as India implements significant GST reforms effective September 22, 2025,. These reforms, dubbed "GST 2.0," represent the most substantial overhaul of India's indirect tax system since its inception in 2017. The primary goal is to simplify the tax structure, improve compliance, and stimulate economic activity.

A key change is the rationalization of GST rates, replacing the previous four-slab system (5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%) with a simplified two-slab structure of 5% and 18%. Essential goods and services will be taxed at the merit rate of 5%, while most other items will fall under the standard rate of 18%. A new "demerit rate" of 40% will be applied to luxury and sin goods such as tobacco, pan masala, aerated drinks, and high-end cars.

The reforms aim to reduce the tax burden on the common man and boost consumption. Several essential items and services will see tax reductions or exemptions. For example, life-saving drugs and medicines will have reduced GST rates, and household essentials may see tax cuts to 5% or nil. Personal care products, kitchen essentials, and household items have moved from the 28% to 18% slab.

Expected Economic Growth

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India's economic growth forecast to 6.4% for both 2025 and 2026. Deloitte expects India to grow between 6.4% and 6.7% in fiscal year 2025 to 2026. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) projects GDP growth at 6.5% for FY25. Factors driving this growth include strong domestic demand, easing inflation, and government policies to boost consumption and investment. The government is expected to further boost spending through direct tax exemptions, potentially adding 0.6-0.7% to GDP growth in FY26.

Statements from Network18 Leadership

Puneet Singhvi, Chief Strategy Officer of Network18 Group, stated that the GST reforms have brought renewed attention to Make in India, India's Vision 2030, and solving compliance challenges. He believes Reforms Reloaded 2025 will facilitate crucial dialogue between government and industry leaders, exploring how these reforms can unlock opportunities, impact livelihoods, and catalyze sectoral growth.

Avinash Kaul, CEO of Network18 (Broadcast) & MD, A+E Networks I TV18, emphasized the importance of the summit in discussing the next chapter of India's economic journey. He noted that at a time of global economic shifts and technological disruption, the summit will spark future-focused conversations on governance, the impact of GST reforms, and India's evolving role in the global economy.

Conclusion

Reforms Reloaded 2025 is poised to be a significant event for discussing India's economic future, particularly in light of the new GST reforms. The summit aims to provide a platform for strategic dialogue and practical insights to accelerate India's economic growth trajectory. With the implementation of GST 2.0 and positive economic forecasts, India is on track for continued growth and development.