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56th GST Council Meeting: Simplified Slabs, Key Rate Cuts, and Higher Sin Taxes on Luxury Goods
- The GST Council proposed simplifying the tax structure from four slabs to mainly two slabs: 5% and 18%, removing 12% and 28% slabs.
- Major goods like daily essentials and textiles are expected to shift mostly to 5%, while consumer durables and electronics may move to 18%.
- A new 40% tax slab is suggested for luxury and sin goods, including high-end cars and tobacco products.
- Opposition-ruled states raised concerns over revenue loss and are demanding compensation mechanisms for losses.
- The overhaul aims to boost consumption, simplify compliance, and promote transparency in the GST regime.
Trump Says U.S. Has “Lost India and Russia to Deepest, Darkest China” After SCO Summit
- Trump said on Truth Social that “we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China” after the SCO summit in Beijing.
- This comment followed the meeting of Narendra Modi, Vladimir Putin, and Xi Jinping, showing growing unity among India, Russia, and China.
- Trump expressed concern over China’s increasing influence on these two key countries.
- He wished them a “long and prosperous future together.”
- The statement has drawn significant attention and triggered discussions about shifting global alliances.
Internet Amazed by Korean Man’s Extraordinary Watermelon Peeling Skills in Viral Video
- A video of a Korean man peeling a large watermelon with remarkable skill and ease went viral on social media.
- The man’s technique showed smooth and quick peeling, impressing viewers with his dexterity and precision.
- The video was widely shared on Instagram and other platforms, garnering amusement and admiration from the internet community.
- Many viewers commented on the next-level skills, expressing amazement at the effortless and neat watermelon peeling.
- The viral post highlighted the creativity and talent often found in Korean street food preparation and presentation.
First Tesla Model Y Delivered in India to Maharashtra Minister
- Tesla delivered its first Model Y from the Mumbai Bandra Kurla Complex showroom.
- Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik is the first owner, promoting EV awareness.
- Model Y prices start at ₹59.89 lakh for the Rear-Wheel Drive variant.
- Tesla has received around 600 bookings since July with deliveries limited to select cities.
- The delivery marks a key step in advancing electric vehicle adoption in India.
Ross Taylor Comes Out of Retirement to Represent Samoa in T20 World Cup Qualifiers
- Ross Taylor, former New Zealand cricket star, has ended retirement at age 41.
- He will represent Samoa, his mother’s native country, in the T20 World Cup 2026 Asia-Pacific Qualifiers.
- Taylor is eligible to play for Samoa through his Samoan heritage and passport.
- He expressed pride in representing Samoa and his culture, calling it a huge honour.
- The comeback aims to help Samoa qualify for the T20 World Cup and share Taylor’s experience with the team.
Messi’s Emotional Brace Secures Argentina’s 3-0 Win in Final Home World Cup Qualifier
- Messi scored two goals in his likely last home World Cup qualifier, leading Argentina to a 3-0 win over Venezuela at a packed Estadio Monumental.
- Messi received a standing ovation and emotional support from 85,000 fans, visibly moved with tears during the match build-up.
- He became the all-time top scorer in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers with 36 goals, contributing two crucial strikes.
- Lautaro Martínez added the third goal, helping Argentina maintain top position in South American qualifying.
- Messi is uncertain about playing in the 2026 World Cup, citing physical condition and rest following injury.