<h1>State chief minister hails national leader after GST Council cuts slabs to two rates, 5% and 18% effective Sept 22</h1> A state chief minister praised the national leader's initiative after the GST Council approved a major rationalisation of goods and services tax slabs, reducing them to two primary rates of 5% and 18% effective September 22. The reforms aim to simplify the indirect tax structure, remove certain slabs, and reduce tax burdens on consumers. The state signaled support, asserting the changes will stimulate demand, production, trade and employment and enhance the state's fiscal contribution under the revised regime.