<h1>GST Council approves two-slab tax overhaul, consolidating rates to 5% and 18% effective September 22, 2025</h1> The GST Council approved a statutory overhaul of indirect taxation by consolidating rates into two slabs-5% and 18%-effective September 22, 2025. A state chief minister publicly characterized the Council's decision as a historic reform likely to simplify compliance and reduce tax burdens for consumers, small traders, farmers and the middle class, asserting attendant social and developmental benefits. The decision alters the legal tax framework and will require administrative implementation by central and state tax authorities, potentially affecting pricing, revenue distribution among governments, and compliance procedures for businesses and taxpayers.