37th GST Council meeting

News:The 37th Goods & Services Tax(GST) Council meeting was held on 20th September 2019.

Facts:

Key Highlights of the meeting:

  • Uniform GST rate of 12% to be levied on polypropylene bags and sacks used for packing of goods
  • GST exempted on specified defence goods not manufactured in India
  • Group insurance schemes for paramilitary forces under the Home Affairs ministry to be exempted from GST.
  • GST rate on caffeinated beverages raised from 18% to 28% with 12% compensation cess. Aerated drink manufacturers shall not be under the composition scheme anymore.

Facts:

About GST Council:

  • Goods & Services Tax(GST) Council is a constitutional body for making recommendations to the Union and State Government on issues related to Goods and Service Tax.
  • As per Article 279A (1) of the constitution, the GST Council was constituted by the President.
  • The council consists of the following members: (a) The Union Finance Minister is the Chairperson (b) The Union Minister of State in-charge of Revenue of finance and (c) The Minister In-charge of finance or taxation or any other Minister nominated by each State Government.