politics 15 - The Latremie Post

The ‘two-state solution’ is making its last stand at the UN. It’s time for a new approach – opinion

**The Two-State Solution Is Making Its Last Stand at the UN: It’s Time for a New Approach**

*By Gil Troy | JTA*

The concept of a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians is facing significant challenges, and it appears to be making its last stand at the United Nations. The ongoing impasse calls for a fresh perspective in addressing this longstanding conflict.

A new rallying cry should emerge from this difficult moment: two democracies for two peoples. This approach emphasizes the importance of democratic values and mutual recognition as the foundation for lasting peace.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently addressed delegates during a high-level meeting of heads of state on the two-state solution, held at United Nations headquarters in New York City on September 22, 2025. His participation underscores the global significance of finding a viable path forward.

As discussions continue, it is clear that innovative ideas and renewed commitments will be essential in overcoming barriers and achieving coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians.

*Photo credit: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters*
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868418

Amit Shah to inaugurate Startup Conclave 2025 at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar

The Gujarat government’s Education Department is set to organize a two-day Startup Conclave from September 23 to 24, aiming to set a new benchmark in India’s startup ecosystem. The event will bring together some of the country’s most dynamic voices in innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment on a single platform.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and State Higher and Technical Education Minister Rushikesh Patel are expected to participate in the opening ceremony, reported news agency IANS. The conclave will feature over 1,000 startups, 5,000 innovators, 100 industry mentors, more than 50 venture funds, and leading policymakers, all working together to boost India’s startup landscape.

One of the key highlights of the event will be the investor pitching sessions. More than 50 shortlisted startups will pitch their ideas across multiple parallel tracks before some of India’s top venture capitalists. These sessions are anticipated to unlock funding opportunities worth Rs 250 crore, building upon the success of the Startup Conclave 2023.

Even before the event, investor interest has already resulted in letters of intent and financial commitments amounting to Rs 150 crore for promising startups, as reported by IANS.

The conclave will be inaugurated by Home Minister Amit Shah and will showcase over 170 startups from 20 states. Participating startups have been selected by prominent initiatives such as Startup India, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX).

Exhibitions will cover critical sectors including defence, aerospace, healthcare, clean energy, agritech, deep tech, and social impact innovations. This broad representation underlines India’s entrepreneurial drive towards achieving ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India).

The opening session will also see the release of several important publications, including the Startup Conclave Coffee Table Book, the NEP-2020 Dashboard, and the Indian Knowledge System Compendium.

Additionally, the Gujarat state government will facilitate the signing of 50 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between startups, investors, and financial institutions. Funding cheques and Letters of Intent will be distributed to selected ventures during the event, further strengthening the support ecosystem for India’s innovators and entrepreneurs.

(With inputs from IANS)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/amit-shah-to-inaugurate-startup-conclave-2025-at-mahatma-mandir-in-gandhinagar-23595420

Battle for Global Talent: UK Mulls Offering Free Visas for Top Talent as Trump Enforces $100k H-1B Fee

In a high-stakes transatlantic showdown for the world’s brightest minds, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is aiming to eliminate visa fees for elite scientists and digital experts to supercharge Britain’s economic growth. This bold move comes in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s executive order on 19 September 2025, which imposed a $100,000 (approximately £74,000) annual fee on new H-1B visas, reshaping high-skilled immigration overnight.

As global competition for top talent intensifies, Britain’s strategy signals a clear pivot to attract world-class innovators amid America’s tightening immigration policies.

### Scrapping Fees: UK’s Strategic Lure for High-Skilled Innovators

Starmer’s global talent taskforce, co-chaired by Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance and business adviser Varun Chandra, is pushing to abolish application costs for outstanding foreign professionals.

“We’re talking about the sort of people who have attended the world’s top five universities or have won prestigious prizes. We’re kicking around the idea of cutting costs to zero,” an official told the *Financial Times* on 22 September 2025.

The proposal extends to waiving fees for partners and children, easing family relocation for individuals in science, engineering, and digital technology fields.

The Home Office supports the initiative, stating it will “attract and retain high-skilled talent, particularly in science, research, and technology, to maintain the UK’s status as a leading international hub for emerging talent and innovation.”

Discussions between Number 10 and the Treasury intensified following Trump’s announcement, with insiders noting it “put wind in the sails” of immigration reform ahead of the 26 November 2025 Budget.

Importantly, no job offer is required under this visa, which fast-tracks settlement for leaders in their fields and is endorsed by organizations such as UK Research and Innovation. Official statistics show grants surged 76% to 3,901 in the year to June 2023.

### Trump’s H-1B Hammer: $100k Fee Upends US Tech Hiring

Trump’s executive order mandates a $100,000 (approximately £74,000) annual fee for new H-1B visa petitions, affecting fresh applicants from the February 2026 lottery.

Since 2004, the H-1B program has been capped at 85,000 visas annually and faced criticism for suppressing wages. Yet, tech giants like Amazon — which secured 12,000 approvals in early 2025 — remain heavily reliant on it.

White House aide Abigail Jackson clarified on 20 September 2025 that existing visa holders will be exempt from the fee, urging those currently abroad to return quickly.

India accounted for 71% of 2024 approvals, and China 11.7%, according to US data.

US Labour Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer is reviewing prevailing wage regulations to better protect American workers.

This order forms part of Trump’s broader immigration clampdown initiated in January 2025 and has alarmed sectors such as IT, prompting companies to scramble amid talent shortages.

Elon Musk backed the measure for addressing genuine workforce gaps, while critics warn it could stifle innovation.

### UK Gains Edge in High-Skilled Immigration Tug-of-War

Starmer’s May 2025 white paper raised skilled worker thresholds to RQF level 6 and increased the Immigration Skills Charge by 32%, now standing at £2,400 for small firms and £6,600 for large ones.

Despite these hikes, elite visa pathways remain open for AI pioneers and engineers, with no salary floors applied.

“This isn’t about diluting our determination to bring down net migration, but it’s about getting the brightest and best into Britain,” Lord Vallance affirmed.

Trump’s hefty H-1B fee may reroute 7,000 to 8,000 workers annually, benefiting UK firms under the current minimum cap of 41,700 visas from 22 July 2025.

English language requirements for visa extensions will also rise to B2 level.

*Financial Times* journalist John Reed posted on X: “Will America’s loss be Britain’s gain? UK explores plan to drop visa fees for top global talent.”

Meanwhile, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering tax adjustments for non-domiciled residents to further boost the UK’s appeal.

With net migration approaching one million by June 2023, this strategy reflects a delicate balance between immigration control and ambitious economic growth.
https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/battle-global-talent-uk-mulls-offering-free-visas-top-talent-trump-enforces-100k-h-1b-fee-1744982

Will EU Missions’ momentum carry them beyond 2030?

Plans by the European Commission to stop financing the EU Missions through Horizon Europe in 2030 are not winning unanimous support. While some stakeholders believe that the momentum of these initiatives will carry them forward, others worry that discontinuing funding could undermine the progress made so far.

Ending funding in 2030 risks jeopardizing advancements just as many initiatives begin to deliver tangible results, said Pirita Lindholm, director of the European Regions Research and Innovation Network (ERRIN). She emphasized that tackling societal challenges does not end in 2030; continued support is essential to maintain momentum.

Launched in 2021, the five EU Missions are large-scale initiatives designed to address some of the European Union’s greatest challenges. These include climate change, cancer, ocean restoration, soil health, and the development of climate-neutral and smart cities. Each mission was given clear goals to guide their impactful work.
https://sciencebusiness.net/news/r-d-funding/missions/will-eu-missions-momentum-carry-them-beyond-2030

EXCLUSIVE: Donald Trump’s Late-Night ‘Kill List’ Revealed After Jimmy Kimmel Is Axed — From Jimmy Fallon to Trevor Noah

**Donald Trump’s Secret ‘Kill List’ Targets Liberal Late-Night Comedians**

*Published: September 22, 2025, 4:23 p.m. ET*

Donald Trump has reportedly drawn up a secret “kill list” of liberal late-night comedians he wants removed from the airwaves, multiple television industry sources revealed to RadarOnline.com.

The 79-year-old president is said to have circulated the list to key broadcast contacts just hours after ABC abruptly suspended *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* The network confirmed that Kimmel’s long-running show would be put on hold “indefinitely” following a series of scathing monologues, in which the 57-year-old comedian mocked conservatives over the murder of activist Charlie Kirk.

### Kimmel’s Show Returns After One Week

As of Monday, September 22, ABC announced the return of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* just one week after its unexpected suspension.

### Trump’s Social Media Celebration

Within minutes of the announcement, Trump celebrated on his social media platform Truth Social, calling Kimmel’s removal “great news for America.” He urged rival networks to dismiss other prominent critics, including Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert, Seth Meyers, and Trevor Noah.

One Republican media strategist with direct knowledge of Trump’s plan disclosed:
“He has privately circulated a list of names – Fallon, Colbert, Meyers, Noah, and of course Kimmel. He wants them all gone. The instruction to his allies is to lean on the networks until every one of them is silenced.”

Trump’s online post left little doubt about his intentions, stating:
“Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done. Kimmel has zero talent, and worse ratings than even Colbert, if that’s possible. That leaves Jimmy and Seth, two total losers, on Fake News NBC. Their ratings are also horrible. Do it NBC!!!”

### The Pressure on Late-Night Comedy

The outburst followed Kimmel doubling down on jokes about Kirk’s killing during two consecutive monologues, criticizing conservatives and mocking Vice President JD Vance. Kimmel notably said:
“We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them.”
He also added, “Trump is fanning the flames by attacking people on the left.”

According to a senior network executive, Trump’s fury extends beyond social media rants.
“He is making calls,” the executive revealed. “There’s a pressure campaign to push these shows off the air. Trump doesn’t just want Kimmel sidelined – he’s demanding a full clear-out of the late-night field.”

### FCC Chair Backs ABC’s Decision

Brendan Carr, chair of the Federal Communications Commission, publicly defended ABC’s decision, saying Kimmel was “suffering the consequences” of his words. However, a communications industry insider claims Carr has faced “relentless pressure” from Trump to increase regulatory scrutiny on broadcasters who employ satirical hosts critical of his administration.

### Mixed Reactions in Washington

Not everyone in Washington has welcomed the move. The SAG-AFTRA union condemned Kimmel’s suspension, warning:
“Suppression of free speech and retaliation for speaking out on significant issues of public concern run counter to the fundamental rights we all rely on.”

Meanwhile, White House deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich applauded the network’s actions, stating:
“Welcome to consequence culture. Companies like ABC are finally willing to do the right and reasonable thing.”

### Trump’s Longstanding Battle with Late-Night Comedy

For Trump, late-night comedy has long been a political battleground. Fallon has remained a target since their infamous 2016 interview, while Meyers frequently skewers the president in his *Closer Look* segments. Colbert has been informed by CBS that his show will end this season—a decision critics believe was influenced by his sharp anti-Trump stance.

Noah stepped away from *The Daily Show* in 2022, but insiders say Trump still fumes over his legacy.
“He sees these shows as the last standing megaphones of the liberal elite,” said a longtime Trump adviser. “And he won’t rest until every one of them is off the air.”
https://radaronline.com/p/donald-trump-late-night-kill-list-jimmy-kimmel-axed-jimmy-fallon-trevor-noah/

EXCLUSIVE: Donald Trump’s Late-Night ‘Kill List’ Revealed After Jimmy Kimmel Is Axed — From Jimmy Fallon to Trevor Noah

**Donald Trump Draws Up Secret ‘Kill List’ Targeting Liberal Late-Night Comedians**

*Published: September 22, 2025, 4:23 p.m. ET*

Donald Trump has reportedly compiled a secret “kill list” of liberal late-night comedians he wants taken off the air, multiple television industry sources have told RadarOnline.com. The 79-year-old president is said to have issued the list to key broadcast contacts just hours after ABC abruptly suspended *Jimmy Kimmel Live!*.

The network confirmed that Kimmel’s long-running show would be put on hold “indefinitely” following a series of scathing monologues. In these segments, the 57-year-old comic mocked conservatives over the murder of activist Charlie Kirk. However, as of Monday, September 22, ABC announced that *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* is returning one week after its unexpected cancellation.

—

### Trump’s Celebration on Truth Social

Within minutes of the suspension, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to celebrate. He called Kimmel’s removal “great news for America,” urging rival networks to also sack other outspoken critics, including Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert, Seth Meyers, and Trevor Noah.

One Republican media strategist with direct knowledge of Trump’s plan revealed:
*”He has privately circulated a list of names – Fallon, Colbert, Meyers, Noah, and of course Kimmel. He wants them all gone. The instruction to his allies is to lean on the networks until every one of them is silenced.”*

In his online post, Trump’s intentions were clear:
*”Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done,”* he jeered.
*”Kimmel has zero talent, and worse ratings than even Colbert, if that’s possible. That leaves Jimmy and Seth, two total losers, on Fake News NBC. Their ratings are also horrible. Do it NBC!!!”*

—

### Cracking Down on Late-Night Hosts

The backlash from Trump came after Kimmel doubled down on his jokes about Kirk’s killing during two consecutive monologues.
*”We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them,”* Kimmel said. He also ridiculed Vice President J.D. Vance, adding,
*”Trump is fanning the flames by attacking people on the left.”*

According to a senior executive at a major network, Trump’s fury extends beyond social media outbursts:
*”He is making calls,”* the executive said.
*”There’s a pressure campaign to push these shows off the air. Trump doesn’t just want Kimmel sidelined – he’s demanding a full clear-out of the late-night field.”*

—

### FCC Chair Brendan Carr’s Response

Brendan Carr, chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), publicly supported ABC’s decision, stating that Kimmel was “suffering the consequences” of his words. However, a communications industry insider claimed Carr has been under “relentless pressure” from Trump to increase regulatory scrutiny of broadcasters who employ satirical hosts critical of his administration.

—

### Reactions from the Industry and Washington

Not everyone in Washington welcomed the move. The SAG-AFTRA union condemned Kimmel’s suspension, warning:
*”Suppression of free speech and retaliation for speaking out on significant issues of public concern run counter to the fundamental rights we all rely on.”*

Meanwhile, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich praised the network’s decision:
*”Welcome to consequence culture,”* Budowich said.
*”Companies like ABC are finally willing to do the right and reasonable thing.”*

—

### The Political Battleground of Late-Night Comedy

For Trump, late-night comedy has long been a politically charged arena. Fallon has remained on his radar since their infamous 2016 interview, while Meyers frequently targets the president with his *Closer Look* segments. Colbert was recently informed by CBS that his show will end this season, a decision many critics believe was influenced by his sharp anti-Trump stance.

Though Trevor Noah stepped away from *The Daily Show* in 2022, insiders say Trump continues to fume over his legacy.

One longtime Trump adviser explained:
*”He sees these shows as the last standing megaphones of the liberal elite. And he won’t rest until every one of them is off the air.”*

—

*Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.*
https://radaronline.com/p/donald-trump-late-night-kill-list-jimmy-kimmel-axed-jimmy-fallon-trevor-noah/

Avoid common voter ID renewal errors

By Anujj Trehaan | Sep 22, 2025, 06:51 PM

**Renewing Your Voter ID: Tips to Avoid Common Pitfalls**

Renewing a voter ID can sometimes be a daunting task, especially if you’re not aware of the common pitfalls that can occur during the process. By understanding these potential errors and knowing how to avoid them, you can enjoy a much smoother renewal experience.

Here are some practical strategies to help you navigate the voter ID renewal process efficiently, minimizing the chances of mistakes or delays.

—

### Tip 1: Double-Check Personal Information

One of the most frequent mistakes in voter ID renewal is submitting incorrect personal information. Before you submit your application, make sure to carefully cross-check all details such as your name, address, and date of birth. Even minor discrepancies can lead to delays or outright rejection.

Ensure that the information you provide matches your official documents, like your birth certificate or utility bills, to prevent any issues during verification.

—

### Tip 2: Submit Required Documents

Missing documents are another common reason why renewal applications get rejected. Be sure to gather all necessary documents before starting the process. Typically, this includes proof of identity and proof of residence.

Since requirements can vary slightly depending on your region, check the specific document guidelines applicable to your area. Preparing everything in advance saves time and helps you avoid unnecessary complications.

—

### Tip 3: Follow Application Guidelines

Different regions may have their own unique guidelines for renewing a voter ID, including submission deadlines and methods (online or in-person). Familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure you comply completely.

Carefully following the instructions will help you avoid procedural errors that might delay your application.

—

### Tip 4: Keep Track of Deadlines

Missing deadlines is a simple yet significant mistake many applicants make during the renewal process. To stay on top of your application, mark important dates on your calendar and set reminders if needed.

Being proactive about deadlines helps you avoid last-minute rushes and the stress associated with late submissions.

—

### Tip 5: Verify Application Status Regularly

After submitting your application, be sure to check its status periodically through official election authority channels. This allows you to promptly address any issues or additional document requests that might arise during processing.

Staying updated on your application progress ensures that you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected delays or demands.

—

By following these tips, you can make the voter ID renewal process smoother, quicker, and stress-free. Stay informed, stay prepared, and exercise your democratic rights with ease!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/avoid-common-voter-id-renewal-errors/story

‘Very heavy times’: Angelina Jolie reacts to free speech decline

**”Very Heavy Times”: Angelina Jolie Reacts to Free Speech Decline**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Sep 22, 2025, 05:30 PM*

Hollywood actor Angelina Jolie recently voiced her concerns about the current state of free speech in the United States during an appearance at Spain’s San Sebastian Film Festival. Reflecting on the nation’s atmosphere, Jolie remarked, “I love my country, but at this time, I don’t recognize my country.”

Though she refrained from naming specific individuals or providing detailed context, her comments come amid growing controversy surrounding Disney and ABC’s decision to indefinitely suspend the popular show *Jimmy Kimmel Live!*.

### Free Speech Concerns

Jolie elaborated on her apprehensions as both an artist and an American. She shared, “My worldview is equal, united and international. Anything anywhere that divides or limits personal expressions and freedoms from anyone, I think, is very dangerous. These are such serious times that we have to be careful not to say things casually. These are very, very heavy times we are living in together.”

Her statement underscores a widespread anxiety among creatives and public figures about limitations on free expression in increasingly polarized times.

### Discontent Among Disney Stars

The suspension of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* has sparked backlash from numerous Disney-affiliated actors and filmmakers. Mark Ruffalo, known for his role as Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), expressed his criticism on Threads, warning that Disney’s stock “will go down a lot further if they cancel” Kimmel’s show permanently.

Similarly, Pedro Pascal, star of Disney’s *Fantastic Four: First Steps* and other forthcoming projects, voiced his support for Kimmel on Instagram. Other notable figures including Tatiana Maslany and Damon Lindelof also spoke out against the suspension, emphasizing solidarity within the Hollywood community.

### Suspension Details: Why Was Kimmel Suspended?

The indefinite suspension of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* followed comments made by Kimmel regarding the aftermath of a fatal shooting involving conservative speaker Charlie Kirk. Brendan Carr, chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), publicly criticized Kimmel’s remarks, fueling a social media backlash.

In response to the controversy, ABC, a Disney-owned network, decided to suspend Kimmel’s show indefinitely, a move that has intensified the debate on free speech and media responsibility.

—

As the discussion around free speech continues to evolve, Angelina Jolie’s candid reflections highlight the complexity and gravity of expressing oneself in today’s charged political environment.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/don-t-recognize-my-country-says-angelina-after-kimmel-speech-outcome/story

India`s GST reforms ignite clash between PM Modi and Congress

Congress Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari on Monday took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his recent speech on Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms implementation, suggesting that the PM should have issued an apology to the nation.

Accusing the Narendra Modi-led central government of “looting” poor and middle-class citizens, Tiwari stated that Congress and the opposition had been demanding a single GST slab based on the concept of ‘One Nation, One Tax’.

“The question that needs to be asked is who increased the GST? Who put a burden on the country by increasing it for eight years? You (PM Modi) should have apologised to the nation yesterday. Congress and the Opposition had been demanding only one slab on the basis of ‘one nation, one tax’. However, you looted the poor and middle-class citizens,” Tiwari told ANI.

The Congress MP further criticized PM Modi for referring to the GST rate rationalisation as a “festival,” pointing out that it was the government who had imposed GST at midnight.

“Yesterday, the Prime Minister said that this is a festival. He said that we should celebrate because GST has been reduced. You imposed GST at 12:00 in the night in Parliament. You spoke similarly then. People of this country have paid over Rs 50 lakh crore in GST. The MSMEs have almost shut down,” Tiwari added.

“Now, you (PM Modi) have the courage to ask people to celebrate the ‘Utsav’. Only you could have shown this courage. Your face was telling that your words lacked self-confidence and courage,” he further remarked.

Meanwhile, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri commented on the GST reforms, saying they have brought a wave of happiness and celebration among people and could potentially boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 0.8%.

The new GST reforms came into force from Monday. Puri stated, “Apart from Navratri, the budget utsav has begun. There is a wave of happiness and celebration among people wherever you see. GST rates have been reduced, which will benefit all sections of society. But we are celebrating something else. These reforms can boost the GDP by 0.8%.”

He emphasized that the country’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat (developed India) depends on self-reliance.

“It has been welcomed by all sections of society,” Puri added. He noted that all groups, particularly the lower middle class and economically weaker sections, will benefit as GST rates on various consumption items have been reduced.

From the very first day of Navratri, the nation is taking a significant step forward in the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the implementation of Next Generation GST reforms marks the beginning of a “GST Bachat Utsav” (Savings Festival) across India. He emphasized that this celebration will enhance savings and make it easier for people to purchase their preferred items.

PM Modi noted that the benefits of this savings festival will reach the poor, middle class, neo middle class, youth, farmers, women, shopkeepers, traders, and entrepreneurs alike.

*This story is sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or the data in the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/indias-gst-sparks-political-row-as-congress-pramod-tiwari-says-pm-modi-should-have-apologised-23595243

‘Give up…foreign jet’: Kejriwal jabs Modi on buy Swadeshi call

**‘Give up foreign jet’: Kejriwal jabs Modi on Buy Swadeshi call**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 22, 2025, 02:11 pm*

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has taken a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent call to buy indigenous products. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader questioned why PM Modi does not follow his own advice by using Swadeshi products himself.

Writing in Hindi, Kejriwal said, “The foreign aircraft you travel on daily, why not give it up?” He further challenged the Prime Minister, saying people expect concrete action rather than just sermons.

Kejriwal pressed Modi on why, if he is serious about promoting Swadeshi, he has not taken steps to shut down American companies operating in India. “Why don’t you take some action too? People expect action from their prime minister, not sermons,” he added.

This critique comes shortly after PM Modi’s address to the nation on Sunday, where he urged citizens to embrace self-reliance and reduce dependence on foreign goods.

### GST 2.0 Announcement

During his address, PM Modi announced a significant overhaul of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system, dubbed ‘GST 2.0.’ The new framework introduces two primary tax rates of 5% and 18%. Meanwhile, ultra-luxury and sin goods will attract a higher tax rate of 40%.

Describing the rollout as a “GST saving festival,” Modi emphasized that the reforms aim to ease consumer burdens while boosting domestic consumption and production.

### Navratri Message: Linking Festival with Self-Reliance

On Monday, PM Modi took to X once more to share his Navratri message, connecting the festival’s spirit to the theme of self-reliance. He wrote:

_”This time, the auspicious occasion of Navratri is very special. Along with the GST savings festival, the mantra of self-reliance will gain new energy during this period.”_

He called upon citizens to come together for the collective goal of building a developed and self-reliant India.

—

*Stay tuned for more updates on this unfolding political exchange and the implications of the new GST framework.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/politics/give-up-foreign-jet-kejriwal-targets-pm-after-swadeshi-call/story