The Goods and Services Tax (GST) came into force at the stroke of midnight amid a historic midnight session at the Central Hall of Parliament. President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley addressed the gathering, before the President and the Prime Minister launched the GST. Speaking on the occasion, the PM Modi said that the day marks a decisive turning point, in determining the future course of the country. He recalled that the Central Hall had been witness to several historic occasions in the past as well, including the first session of the Constituent Assembly, India’s independence, and the adoption of the Constitution. He described GST as an example of Co-operative Federalism. Quoting Chanakya, PM Modi said hard work can overcome all obstacles and help us accomplish even the most difficult of objectives and added that just as Sardar Patel had ensured political integration of the country, GST would ensure economic integration.
