The 7th meeting of the National Traders Welfare Board (NTWB) took place at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi, on October 9, 2025, under the chairmanship of Shri Sunil J. Singhi for ‘Vocal for Local’. The session featured major policy updates and a renewed emphasis on promoting indigenous products and simplifying compliance for the trading community.
Chairman Welcomed for Second Term; Retail Trade Policy in Spotlight
Attended by senior officials and board members, the meeting began with Joint Secretary Shri Sanjiv (DPIIT) extending congratulations to Chairman Shri Sunil J. Singhi on starting his second term. The pivotal role of India’s retail trade sector was applauded, and members were encouraged to make practical, inclusive recommendations for the upcoming National Retail Trade Policy. The aim is to boost participation among grassroots traders and strengthen the national trading ecosystem.
‘Vocal for Local’ Initiative and Poster Launch
A key moment of the meeting was the launch of the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign poster: “Garv Se Kaho, Ye Swadeshi Hai.” This campaign aims to amplify the Prime Minister’s message of supporting and promoting Indian-made products. All board members pledged to actively champion the campaign, seeking broader outreach and greater consumer pride in local goods.
Next-Gen GST Reforms Lauded; ‘GST Bachat Utsav’ Celebrated
Chairman Singhi praised the implementation of Next-Gen GST Reforms, which went into effect on September 22, 2025. The reforms have led to substantial price reductions—375 essential and consumer items now attract lower GST rates, making goods such as stationary, apparel, medicines, and automobiles significantly more affordable. The reforms also exempted health and life insurance policies from GST, providing up to 18% savings. Under the new framework, car buyers could save approximately ₹70,000, and the GST rate on tractors dropped to 5%, cutting costs by nearly ₹40,000. The nationwide ‘GST Bachat Utsav’ reflected gratitude for these consumer- and trader-friendly measures.
Board’s Continued Commitment to Trader Welfare
Chairman Singhi reiterated the government’s resolve to foster a business-friendly atmosphere through streamlined procedures, reduced compliance burdens, and enhanced financial and infrastructural support. He assured members that representations from traders’ associations are regularly sent to concerned ministries for appropriate action and welcomed further suggestions to increase awareness of welfare schemes across India’s trading community.
Conclusion
The NTWB’s 7th board meeting reinforced its commitment to empowering India’s traders and retailers, with an accent on practical policy input, indigenous industry promotion, and ongoing GST-driven economic relief. As the board advances proactive measures, traders can expect a more inclusive and supportive environment for growth.
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Source: PIB
