Current Affairs 5th September 2025

 

A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted electronic device that helps people with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss perceive sound. Unlike a hearing aid, which only amplifies sound, a cochlear implant bypasses the damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerveStructural Overhaul Old 4-slab structure (5%, 12%, 18%, 28%) replaced by: 5% – Merit Rate (essentials, daily-use items). 18% – Standard Rate (majority of goods & services). 40% – De-merit Rate (select luxury/sin goods). Aims to simplify compliance, enhance predictability, and align with global practices Antibiotics and mental Health Gut-Brain Axis The gut microbiome regulates serotonin, dopamine, mood, stress, and sleep cycles. Antibiotics disrupt microbial diversity → dysbiosis → altered neurotransmission, inflammation, and psychiatric vulnerabilities. Dysbiosis is linked to anxiety, depression, cognitive declineRelief to Households & Consumers Exemptions: UHT milk, paneer,

 

chapati, paratha. 5% GST: soap, shampoo, toothpaste, bicycles, kitchenware. Packaged foods (noodles, chocolates, beverages) → GST cuts → boost in consumption. Insurance & Healthcare Complete GST exemption on life and health insurance → improves affordability, increases penetration, especially for low income families & senior citizens. Healthcare boost: Exemptions/reductions on drugs, devices & treatments for cancer, rare diseases, and chronic conditions. Challenges Public ignorance of gut-brain axis.

 

Cultural preference for quick fixes & antibiotics over lifestyle/dietary solutions. Weak regulatory oversight: unregulated pharmacies, OTC sales, rural healthcare gaps. Fragmented medical practice: antibiotics often prescribed for viral illnesses. The Hindu Agriculture & Farmers Farm machinery & tractors → 5% GST. Fertilizers & key inputs (sulphuric acid, ammonia) → reduced from

18% to 5%. Correction of inverted duty