Srinagar, Sept. 22 -- Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur on Monday lauded the Central government's implementation of the new Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, calling it a "historic step" that would provide relief to traders, the middle class, and the poor.

Speaking to ANI in Shimla on the first day of Navratri, Thakur also extended his greetings to the people of Himachal Pradesh. "On this sacred occasion of Navratri, I convey my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all residents of the state. May the blessings of the Goddess be with everyone. Himachal has suffered immense loss of life and property due to disasters during this prolonged monsoon season. I pray that we overcome this difficu...