NEW DELHI : Delhi alone is projected to generate ₹75,000 crore in sales, reflecting the nationwide boom fueled by shifting consumer choices and recent government reforms. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Vocal for Local” campaign has dramatically reshaped shopping patterns, with Indian-made goods dominating festive markets while Chinese imports have nearly disappeared.
CAIT Secretary General and Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal noted that consumers are making a conscious effort to buy Swadeshi products. A survey across 35 major cities found Indian goods leading categories ranging from decorations and garments to electronics and household items. The trend gained momentum after the 2020 Galwan clash, with importers steering clear of China-sourced festive products.
Adding fuel to the shopping spree, the government’s GST 2.0 reforms, rolled out on September 22, have slashed taxes across essentials and big-ticket items. Daily consumables like shampoos and toiletries now fall under a 5% GST slab, down from 18%, while appliances such as refrigerators, TVs, and air conditioners saw tax rates drop from 28% to 18%. Automobiles, including small cars and motorcycles, also benefited from reduced levies.
India’s consumer economy has already seen a roaring start this season. Navratri sales were the strongest in over a decade, with Maruti Suzuki doubling deliveries to 1.65 lakh vehicles in just eight days. Early festive data showed ₹60,700 crore in gross merchandise value in the first week alone, a 29% year-on-year increase.
Projected to hit $56 billion, India's festive sales are thriving due to a focus on local products and tax reforms. The 'Vocal for Local' campaign has led to a decline in Chinese imports, while GST cuts have encouraged spending on essentials and luxury goods, resulting in a significant boost in consumer activity this festive season.