Key Updates (Point-Wise)
National & Economic Affairs
Launch of GST 2.0
Effective from 22 September 2025, the Indian government has launched a major reform in the Goods and Services Tax called GST 2.0.
Simplifies multiple rate slabs; a two-slab structure (5% & 18%) for most goods/services, with special rates for luxury or sin goods.
Removal of the GST compensation cess, which had been levied since the inception of GST.
Exemptions/reductions given to life-saving drugs, medical devices, health & life insurance policies etc.
Impact on Consumers and Sectors
Essentials like certain foods, medicines, daily-use items will become cheaper due to rate cuts.
FMCG, e-commerce, and retail sectors are adjusting prices ahead of the festive season to pass on benefits.
Some retailers, especially in pharmaceuticals, fear losses on existing stock as older higher-taxed items need to be sold under lower taxes.
Festive & Swadeshi Push
Alongside GST 2.0 rollout, awareness campaigns have started (especially in Uttar Pradesh) to educate shopkeepers and buyers about GST reforms and promote indigenous (Swadeshi) goods.
Government initiatives like “GST Savings Festival” / “GST Reform Awareness Campaign” running 22-29 September to reinforce both policy changes and consumer behavior shifts toward made-in-India products.
Trade & International Relations
India’s Commerce & Trade Minister is visiting Washington (USA) on 22 September to advance talks on trade agreements, especially in light of U.S. tariffs on Indian goods and visa related issues.
India and U.S. have agreed not to demand software source codes (algorithms etc.) as part of regulatory conditions in bilateral digital trade. This reduces friction for tech & software firms operating cross-border.
Stock Market / Corporate Reaction
Equity markets showing mixed to positive reactions; IT firms, exporters under focus due to trade developments.
Major automakers like Maruti Suzuki revising prices of small cars downward reflecting reduced GST rates.
State Level Developments
In Andhra Pradesh (with CM Chandrababu Naidu), clear implementation of GST 2.0 reforms including translation of government orders, regional awareness.
Namkeen & sweets industry in cities like Indore benefitting: many local snacks saw tax cut from former higher slabs to 5%.
National Events & Social / Cultural
Urban Development Projects in Bihar
Deployment of 1,300 urban infrastructure projects being inaugurated on 22 September 2025. This is expected to improve amenities, public services, infrastructure in urban areas of Bihar.
Water Supply Disruption in Bhopal
Scheduled power maintenance for electric infrastructure will lead to disruptions in water supply in various areas of Bhopal from evening 22 September through 23 September.
Indore’s “No Car Day”
Indore city observing “No Car Day” on 22 September to reduce pollution and congestion. Promotes walking, cycling, public transport. This is part of ongoing environment awareness / clean city efforts.
Dasara CM Cup Sports Meet
In Mysuru, the Dasara CM Cup Sports Meet 2025 starts on 22 September, covering traditional and modern sports across many venues. Focus on rural talent development, inclusion of special sports categories.
International Affairs
Nepal-China Direct Flights
Nepal Airlines is launching direct flights between Kathmandu and Guangzhou (China). Enhances air connectivity, trade & tourism.
India-US Digital Trade Agreement
Agreement to not require disclosure of source code in regulations is aimed at fostering trust, protecting IP, facilitating digital trade.
Tariff Regime & Global Trade Pressures
U.S. has imposed high tariffs on Indian goods (e.g. due to oil purchases from Russia), creating trade tensions. India is negotiating and seeking to diversify trade partners while pushing reforms.
Sports & Miscellaneous
Asia Cup 2025: India vs Pakistan
India defeated Pakistan by six wickets in an Asia Cup match, with an explosive half-century from Abhishek Sharma contributing heavily. Strengthens India’s position in the tournament.
Cultural Festival Recognition
Kolhapur’s Shahi Dasara Mahotsav (Royal Dasara Festival) has been officially designated a “Major State Festival” by Maharashtra. More government support, events, tourism and cultural programs added.
Exam-Relevant GK Points / Static Facts
GST 2.0 rollout date: 22.09.2025. This is a major policy event, altering indirect tax structure.
New primary GST slabs: 5% and 18% for most items; luxury/sin goods possibly at higher. Removal of compensation cess is historic.
Trade Minister of India: Piyush Goyal. His US visit on 22 Sept is a key diplomatic / trade event.
PM Modi pushing Swadeshi/Make in India as part of policy discourse especially after trade tensions with USA.
State level policy changes (e.g. in Andhra Pradesh) often mirror central reforms—good to track models.
In sports, remember major matches like India vs Pakistan in Asia Cup because these often feature in exam questions.
Implications & What to Watch
For Banking / Finance Exams: How GST 2.0 affects fiscal receipts, inflation, consumer demand, impact on MSMEs. Questions may ask on indirect taxes, GST slab changes, compensation cess.
For Trade / International Relations Papers: India-US trade negotiations, tech policy (source code regulation), impact of tariffs.
For General Awareness / Static GK: Dates, names, important reforms/global events.
