Showing questions for August 22, 2025
- Total: 33 questions
Question 1 Aug 22, 2025
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The Group of Ministers (GoM) on GST has accepted the Centre’s proposal to reduce the number of GST slabs to how many?
Two (5% and 18%)The Group of Ministers on GST rate rationalisation, headed by Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, accepted the Centre’s proposal to streamline the indirect tax system by reducing the number of GST slabs from four (5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%) to just two—5% and 18%. Under the new structure, 99% of items currently taxed at 12% will be shifted to the 5% slab, and 90% of those under 28% will move to 18%. A 40% levy will still apply to 5–7 'sin goods'. This reform aims to simplify the tax structure and improve compliance. The decision reflects a major shift in India’s tax policy post-GST implementation.
Question 2 Aug 22, 2025
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Who has been appointed as the new Delhi Police Commissioner following the attack on Chief Minister Rekha Gupta?
Satish GolchaSatish Golcha, a 1992-batch AGMUT cadre officer, has been appointed as the new Delhi Police Commissioner after the security lapse during the attack on CM Rekha Gupta. He replaced SBK Singh, whose tenure was among the shortest, lasting just over three weeks. Golcha is known for his decisive leadership during the 2020 northeast Delhi riots and has held key positions including Director General (Prisons) and roles in the CBI where he investigated high-profile cases. His appointment was made by the Ministry of Home Affairs to strengthen law and order. His experience in handling sensitive cases makes him a strategic choice for the capital’s top police role.
Question 3 Aug 22, 2025
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What is the proposed higher levy on 'sin goods' under the new GST restructuring plan?
40%Under the proposed GST slab rationalisation, a higher levy of 40% is likely to be retained on 5–7 'sin goods' such as tobacco, alcohol, and luxury items. While most items under the 12% and 28% slabs will be shifted to 5% and 18% respectively, these goods will continue to attract a special tax rate. The decision aims to maintain revenue from demerit goods while simplifying the overall tax structure. The GoM supports this to ensure public health objectives are not compromised. This special rate has been in place for certain luxury and harmful products even before the proposed changes.
Question 4 Aug 22, 2025
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Which Indian astronaut recently returned from the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission?
Shubhanshu ShuklaGroup Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is the first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS, returning after a landmark mission under the Axiom-4 program. He shared his experience in a press conference, describing the journey as 'unbelievable' and emphasized its value for India’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission. He met with PM Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and ISRO officials upon return. His mission marks a significant milestone in India’s space exploration journey. Shukla’s firsthand insights will contribute to future manned space missions by ISRO.
Question 5 Aug 22, 2025
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What did External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlight as a major concern in India-Russia trade relations during his Moscow visit?
Ballooning trade deficitDuring his discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, EAM S Jaishankar acknowledged the robust defence and geopolitical ties but expressed concern over the widening trade deficit with Russia. While bilateral trade surged from $3 billion in 2021 to $68 billion in FY2024-25, the deficit grew from $6.6 billion to $58.9 billion, largely due to India’s heavy oil imports. Jaishankar proposed measures like enhancing connectivity via INSTC and removing trade barriers to balance the equation. The meeting emphasized strategic cooperation despite economic imbalances. Russia remains a key partner in India’s defence and energy sectors.