Digest for 23 September, 2025
Next-Generation GST Reforms Implemented, Slashing Rates on Essentials
The government has rolled out its next-generation GST reforms, consolidating most goods into two main slabs of 5% and 18%. This significant tax overhaul reduces or eliminates taxes on daily essentials like food and medicine, with many items previously taxed at 12% now in the 5% bracket. The government projects the reforms will boost household savings, simplify compliance for businesses, especially MSMEs, and encourage domestic manufacturing as part of a nationwide 'GST Savings Festival'.
Torrential Rains Paralyse Kolkata, Claiming at Least Four Lives
Torrential overnight rain has inundated Kolkata, causing at least four deaths due to electrocution and bringing the city to a standstill. Widespread waterlogging submerged arterial roads, crippling traffic and public transport, including the suspension of Metro and Eastern Railway services on several stretches. Some areas received over 300 mm of rain in a few hours. The India Meteorological Department has warned of more heavy rainfall as a low-pressure area forms over the Bay of Bengal.
India to Develop 'Bodyguard Satellites' to Protect Space Assets
India is launching a new strategic initiative to develop 'bodyguard satellites' designed to identify and counter threats to its orbiting spacecraft. The plan was reportedly accelerated after a dangerously close approach by a neighboring country's satellite earlier this year highlighted vulnerabilities. The project aims to create a defensive shield in space, potentially using LiDAR technology to detect threats and allow time for evasive manoeuvres, marking a significant step in bolstering India's national security and space-based capabilities.
US Indicates Doctors May Be Exempted From $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee
The White House has indicated that doctors and medical residents may be exempted from the new, steep $100,000 H-1B visa application fee. A spokesperson confirmed that the executive order contains provisions for waivers if hiring a foreign worker is deemed to be in the US "national interest." This potential policy shift follows widespread concern from medical organizations that the fee would deter international medical graduates, exacerbating physician shortages in underserved areas and significantly impacting Indian applicants.
Two Senior Maoist Leaders with ₹80 Lakh Bounty Killed in Encounter
In a major blow to the Naxal insurgency, security forces killed two top CPI (Maoist) Central Committee members in an encounter in the Abujhmad forest along the Chhattisgarh-Maharashtra border. The slain leaders, Katta Ramachandra Reddy and Kadari Satyanarayana Reddy, each carried a bounty of ₹40 lakh. They were reportedly masterminds behind numerous major attacks, including the 2010 Tadmetla ambush. Security forces recovered an AK-47, an INSAS rifle, and explosives from the site.