Record-Breaking Navratri Sales in India Fueled by GST Reforms

India has recorded its highest Navratri sales in over a decade, driven significantly by a combination of robust festive demand and recent GST reforms, government sources revealed. The rationalisation of GST slabs and targeted measures to enhance the accessibility of essential and aspirational goods have considerably bolstered consumer confidence, resulting in record-breaking consumption across key sectors, they reported.

"GST reforms under the Modi government have lowered the tax burden on the middle class and unlocked aspirations across India. This Navratri has validated the impact of these reforms on the ground," a senior government official stated. India adopted a streamlined two-tier tax system effective from September 22, consolidating most goods and services under 5% and 18% tax brackets, departing from the previous four-slab system, while ultra-luxury items incur a 40% tax.

The automotive sector emerged as a substantial beneficiary. Maruti Suzuki reported their best Navratri performance in a decade, exceeding 2 lakh vehicle deliveries, and achieving 3.5 lakh bookings. On the first day of Navratri alone, a record 30,000 units were delivered, marking its highest in 35 years. Mahindra & Mahindra enjoyed a 60% year-on-year retail sales surge, notably due to the XUV700 and Scorpio N demand. Hyundai's SUV sales soared with models such as Creta and Venue accounting for over 72% of total sales. Tata Motors sold over 50,000 vehicles, while Hero MotoCorp and Bajaj Auto reported impressive growth, particularly in the commuter and two-wheeler segments.

In the consumer electronics arena, brands experienced double-digit to near triple-digit growth. Haier's sales surged 85%, nearly depleting its Diwali stock of premium large-screen TVs. Reliance Retail saw a 20-25% sales increase, driven by smartphones, fashion, and televisions. Vijay Sales and LG India also reported robust growth, attributing momentum to festive deals and GST-driven price stability. Government sources highlighted that the first half of the festive period—from Onam to Dussehra—typically accounts for 40-45% of annual festive sales, marking it as India's largest consumption phase. Brands and retailers recording 25% to 100% growth emphasize the nation's strength as a consumption-driven economy, supported by proactive fiscal policy and structural tax reforms.

(With inputs from agencies.)