<h1>GST slabs slashed to 5% and 18% from Sept 22 to ease living and cut taxes for consumers, MSMEs, farmers</h1> The state chief minister praised the prime minister and the union finance minister for swift GST rate reforms, saying the changes will improve 'Ease of Living' and reduce the tax burden on consumers, MSMEs, farmers, women and youth. The GST Council approved an overhaul limiting slabs to 5% and 18% effective Sept. 22. The state finance minister described reforms as targeting structural improvements, tax-rate revisions and ease of living. Key agricultural inputs and machinery previously taxed at 12-18% have been cut to 5%, a move the government says will lower production costs and benefit farmers and small traders.