The GST Council has approved a restructured indirect tax system, effective September 22nd, featuring simplified rates of 5% and 18%, with a 40% category for luxury and sin goods. This reform eliminates the 12% and 28% slabs, aiming to streamline tax administration.
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In Etah, Uttar Pradesh, four men were acquitted after an 11-year gang-rape trial when the woman admitted the crime never occurred. The court ordered action against the woman and her husband for filing a false case, and against the investigating officer for a flawed investigation.
Himachal Pradesh has faced a severe monsoon season. It has led to 310 deaths since June 20. Rain-related incidents and road accidents are the major causes. Extensive damage to public and private property has occurred. Mandi is the worst-hit district. Connectivity, power, and water supply are disrupted. Authorities are working to restore essential services.
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has refuted Pakistan's propaganda claiming India's S-400 air defence system was damaged during Operation Sindoor. PIB clarified that reports of destruction are false, and the circulated image is from a 2010 Russian parade. India launched Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam terror attack, striking terror hubs, and intercepted Pakistani drones and missiles using the S-400.
German Foreign Minister Johann David Wadephul is in India to discuss the Ukraine conflict and strengthen trade ties. Talks with S Jaishankar will likely address potential secondary sanctions against Russia, which could impact India's energy relations. Jaishankar is expected to reiterate India's support for dialogue and a peaceful resolution, a message previously conveyed to Vladimir Putin.
Florida is set to potentially eliminate all vaccine mandates, including those for schoolchildren, a move spearheaded by Surgeon General Dr. Joseph A. Ladapo and Governor Ron DeSantis. Dr. Ladapo, a known vaccine skeptic, has clashed with public health authorities in the past. The state plans to form a commission tied to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to further this agenda.
Mitesh Khapra, IIT Madras professor, features in TIME's 2025 AI 100 list. He is recognised for NLP and machine learning contributions. Khapra focuses on AI systems for India's diverse languages. His work addresses challenges in English-centric AI models. He aims to make AI accessible across India. AI4Bharat, his project, builds datasets for Indian languages. This initiative supports government's Bhashini mission.
Brittany Mahomes, wife of NFL star Patrick Mahomes, has addressed her past insecurities regarding attention from other women towards her husband. She admitted that disrespectful behavior from some women used to bother her. However, Brittany has grown to a point where she is unbothered and focused on her family with Patrick, whom she met in high school.
Television actress Priya Marathe, known for her roles in Marathi and Hindi serials, passed away at her Mumbai residence on August 31 at the age of 38. She had been battling cancer for several years. Marathe gained recognition for her performances in 'Kasamh Se,' 'Pavitra Rishta,' and 'Bade Acche Lagte Hain,' leaving behind a legacy of memorable characters and versatility.
Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation in the 125th episode of Mann Ki Baat, expressing sorrow for the havoc caused by incessant rains and highlighting the contributions of disaster response forces. He also mentioned achievements in Jammu and Kashmir, including a cricket match in Pulwama, and spotlighted athletes from the Khelo India Water Sports Festival.
Congress leader Udit Raj endorsed Peter Navarro's controversial remarks about Brahmins, sparking outrage. He claimed upper castes dominate Indian oil refining and benefit from cheap Russian oil, aligning with his party's focus on non-upper caste coalitions. Karti Chidambaram referenced 'Boston Brahmins' as societal elites, highlighting the complex intersection of caste, politics, and discrimination.