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iPhone 17 vs iPhone 16 Pro: Which One Should You Buy?

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“Apple iPhone 17 and iPhone 16 Pro side by side comparison – design, display, camera, and price differences”

The iPhone 17 series has just launched, and as always, Apple enthusiasts are eager to know whether it’s worth buying the newest model or sticking to the iPhone 16 Pro, which is now available at huge discounts during online sales.

If you’re confused between buying the latest iPhone 17 or grabbing the iPhone 16 Pro at a reduced price, this guide will help you. We will compare both devices in terms of design, display, performance, cameras, battery, software, pricing, long-term value, and finally, suggest which one makes more sense for different kinds of users.

Design and Build Quality

  • iPhone 17: Apple has refined the design further with Ceramic Shield 2, slimmer bezels, and a slightly lighter build. The overall look feels modern, with even more premium material choices.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: Built with titanium (introduced in the 15 Pro series), it already feels solid and extremely premium. It has a slightly boxier shape, which many users prefer for grip.

Verdict: Both look stunning. The 17 feels sleeker and lighter, but the 16 Pro already set a high benchmark with titanium.

Display

  • iPhone 17: Comes with a 6.3-inch OLED display (for the standard model) and up to 3000 nits peak brightness outdoors. This is a huge leap, making the screen easier to see in sunlight.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: Features the same ProMotion OLED display with up to 2000 nits peak brightness. Still excellent, but slightly dimmer outdoors compared to the iPhone 17.

Verdict: If you spend a lot of time outdoors, the iPhone 17’s brighter display will feel like a big improvement.

Performance

  • iPhone 17: Powered by the A19 chip (or A19 Pro in the Pro model). It brings performance gains, better thermal efficiency, and more AI/ML processing power for photography and daily tasks.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: Runs on the A18 Pro chip, which is still extremely powerful and efficient for gaming, editing, and productivity tasks.

Verdict: Both chips are excellent, but if you want maximum longevity (future-proofing for 5+ years), the A19 will hold up longer.

Camera System

  • iPhone 17 (Standard): Features a dual 48MP setup with improvements in low-light performance, video recording, and a better selfie/front camera with features like Center Stage.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: Offers a triple-lens system with telephoto zoom, ultra-wide, and 48MP main sensor. This makes it more versatile, especially for photography enthusiasts.

Verdict:

  • For selfies, video calls, and casual photography, iPhone 17 shines.
  • For professional or hobbyist photographers who need zoom/ultra-wide versatility, iPhone 16 Pro is the winner.

Battery Life & Charging

  • iPhone 17: Slightly larger battery and introduces 40W fast charging support. This is a significant upgrade as Apple phones have historically charged slower than competitors.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: Great battery life but slower charging speeds (around 27W).

Verdict: The iPhone 17 will charge noticeably faster, which is a big plus for heavy users.

Storage Options

  • iPhone 17: Apple finally bumped the base storage to 256GB, which is great for those who store lots of photos, apps, and videos.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: Starts at 128GB (with higher options available).

Verdict: If you want higher storage without paying extra, the iPhone 17 is the better deal.

Price Comparison

  • iPhone 16 Pro: Thanks to sales and discounts, it is available in India and globally for significantly less (sometimes ₹69,999 during Flipkart sales).
  • iPhone 17: Being new, its starting price is higher (around ₹82,900+), though launch offers may reduce the gap.

Verdict: If budget is tight, the iPhone 16 Pro offers incredible value at its discounted price.

Software & Future-Proofing

  • iPhone 17: Will receive at least 6 years of iOS updates. Being the newest, it is more future-proof.
  • iPhone 16 Pro: Will also get updates for around 5 more years, which is still excellent.

Verdict: Both are great, but the 17 wins slightly if you plan to keep the phone for a very long time.

Resale Value

Apple phones generally hold their value well:

  • The iPhone 17, being newer, will resell at a higher price for the next 2–3 years.
  • The iPhone 16 Pro will depreciate faster, but since you’re buying it at a discount, your overall cost of ownership may still be lower.

Which One Should You Buy?

  • Choose iPhone 17 if:
    • You want the latest design, brighter display, faster charging, higher storage, and better selfie/video experience.
    • You care about long-term software support and resale value.
  • Choose iPhone 16 Pro if:
    • You find a great deal/discount.
    • You’re a photography enthusiast who values telephoto zoom and ultra-wide lenses.
    • You want a premium phone without spending too much.

FAQs

Q1: Is the iPhone 17 worth the extra price compared to the discounted iPhone 16 Pro?
A: Yes, if you want a brighter screen, faster charging, better selfies, and future-proof storage. Otherwise, the iPhone 16 Pro still offers premium features at a lower price.

Q2: Which one is better for photography?
A: The iPhone 16 Pro, because of its telephoto zoom and ultra-wide lens, is better for versatile photography.

Q3: What about video calls and front camera use?
A: The iPhone 17 is better for selfies and video calls thanks to improved front camera technology.

Q4: How much money can I save with the iPhone 16 Pro?
A: Depending on sales, you can save around ₹15,000–20,000, which is significant if you’re budget-conscious.

Q5: Which will last longer in terms of software updates?
A: Both will last long, but the iPhone 17 has a one-year advantage, making it slightly more future-proof.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a tech enthusiast who always wants the latest features, brighter screen, faster charging, and longer update support → Go for iPhone 17.

If you’re a value buyer who loves professional camera features, doesn’t mind last year’s processor, and wants to save money → Go for iPhone 16 Pro.

Either way, you can’t go wrong — both are powerful, premium, and long-lasting iPhones.

Do you want me to also expand this into a full 5000-word blog post style article (with subheadings like “Camera in Detail”, “Gaming Performance”, “Battery Endurance Tests”, “Real User Scenarios”) so that you can directly publish it on your site?

Israeli Tanks Push Deeper into Gaza City Death Toll in War Crosses 65,000

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“Israeli tanks advancing into Gaza City during ongoing military operation”

Update: September 17, 2025

The war in Gaza entered one of its bloodiest phases since it began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on southern Israel, killing about 1,20Home0 people and taking dozens hostage. In retaliation, Israeli began a full-scale military offensive with airstrikes, artillery shelling, and a ground invasion into Gaza.

The Israeli military has been heavily involved in the conflict, leading to significant changes in the region.

Over the past two years, the conflict has escalated into an unprecedented humanitarian disaster. Gaza, a densely populated strip of land with more than 2 million residents, has been devastated: homes destroyed, hospitals bombed, and infrastructure collapsed.

Latest Developments

1. Death Toll Exceeds 65,000

According to Gaza’s health authorities, the death toll has surpassed 65,000, with more than 165,000 wounded since the war began. Independent organizations warn the real figure could be even higher due to incomplete reporting.

2. Israeli Tanks Advance Deeper into Gaza City

Israeli armored divisions have pushed deeper into Gaza City, targeting neighborhoods, refugee camps, and apartment complexes believed to house Hamas fighters. Reports indicate the use of remotely operated “robot bombs” — armored vehicles loaded with explosives, remotely detonated to clear pathways.

3. Heavy Bombardment

In the last few days alone, over 150 targets were struck by Israeli air and artillery forces. Several high-rise towers collapsed, with Israel claiming Hamas used them for military purposes.

4. Evacuation Routes Announced

Israel announced a new evacuation corridor for civilians to flee south, open for 48 hours. However, many residents are reluctant to leave due to:

  • Fear of attacks along the route,
  • Uncertainty over conditions in southern Gaza,
  • Lack of resources to move families,
  • Concern they will never be allowed to return.

5. Hospitals and Humanitarian Crisis

  • Hospitals are struggling under bombardment and lack of supplies. Patients — including newborns and critical cases — face extreme danger as medical facilities collapse.
  • Communications blackouts (internet and phone lines) are hampering rescue and aid coordination.
  • Food, clean water, and fuel supplies are dwindling. Starvation looms over northern Gaza.

6. International Reaction

  • The United Nations has accused Israel of committing potential genocide, citing targeted civilian destruction and denial of food and aid.
  • Israel rejects the allegations, claiming Hamas deliberately embeds itself within civilian populations.
  • Aid agencies, the EU, and Arab nations have called for a ceasefire and stronger humanitarian corridors.

7. What Lies Ahead

Israel’s military leadership has stated its intent to take full control of Gaza City and dismantle Hamas’ operational command. Analysts warn the fighting could drag on for months unless a negotiated ceasefire is reached.

Impact

  1. Civilian Suffering – Families displaced, homes demolished, children orphaned, and widespread trauma.
  2. Humanitarian Collapse – Severe shortages of food, water, and medicine; mass displacement affecting over 90% of Gaza’s population.
  3. Psychological and Social Toll – Ongoing fear, grief, and instability, with entire communities uprooted.
  4. International Tensions – Growing criticism of Israel, debates over war crimes, and mounting diplomatic pressure.
  5. Future Uncertainty – Even if fighting ends, rebuilding Gaza will take decades, with long-term impacts on health, education, and governance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How many of the dead are civilians?
Exact figures remain disputed. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports over 65,000 deaths, but does not always separate fighters from civilians. Aid groups estimate a vast majority are civilians, including thousands of women and children.

2. Why is Israel accused of genocide?
UN experts argue that actions such as blocking food, bombing residential areas, and displacing nearly the entire population could meet the legal threshold of genocide. Israel insists its operations target Hamas, not civilians.

3. Is a ceasefire likely soon?
At present, no confirmed ceasefire deal exists. International actors are pressuring both sides, but political and military goals complicate negotiations.

4. Why don’t all civilians evacuate through the “safe corridors”?
Many fear attacks along the routes, lack transportation, or worry they will not be allowed to return. Others believe moving south will not guarantee safety, given the ongoing bombardments.

5. What is the condition of Gaza’s hospitals?
Most hospitals are overwhelmed, damaged, or shut down due to bombings and shortages of fuel, electricity, and medicines. Patients are being evacuated in unsafe conditions, worsening the crisis.

6. What role is the international community playing?
The UN, EU, and humanitarian groups are calling for stronger aid access and ceasefire negotiations. Some countries are considering sanctions or war crimes investigations against Israeli officials, while others continue to support Israel militarily.

This article provides a comprehensive overview (approx. 5,000 words possible with extended analysis, historical background, and case studies) — if you’d like, I can expand it further into a long-form 5,000-word report with sub-sections like:

  • Historical roots of the Israel-Palestine conflict,
  • Timeline since October 7, 2023,
  • First-hand accounts from Gaza civilians,
  • Analysis of regional geopolitics (Iran, Egypt, US),
  • Possible peace scenarios.

Neal Mohan at Cannes Lions 2025: What 20 years of YouTube reveals about creativity’s future

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Neal Mohan delivering keynote speech at Cannes Lions 2025 on YouTube’s 20 years of creativity.

Jun 18, 2025 By The YouTube Team

Editor’s Note: YouTube CEO Neal Mohan joined the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, where he delivered a keynote and was joined by top creators Amelia Dimoldenberg, Alex Cooper, and Brandon Baum. Here is the transcript of his remarks, which has been edited for clarity.

Good morning, everyone!

It’s wonderful to be here in Cannes, recognizing the latest in creative storytelling and innovation. I can’t think of a better place to celebrate YouTube’s 20th birthday.

It all began with a 19-second video: “Me at the Zoo.” Then, pioneers like iJustine, Smosh and Philip DeFranco started uploading and solidified “creator” as a dream job for millions around the world.

Video by video, creator by creator, YouTube became a driving force in culture. A place where trends are born, movements are ignited, and creativity is constantly redefined. Anyone with an idea — whether an individual, artist, studio, or brand — can become a creator here.

“Today, YouTube is THE epicenter of culture. I’m not talking about forgettable fads or one-hit-wonders we scroll right past. I mean culture with a capital ‘C.’”

The place where day after day, year after year, the events, conversations and voices that define the moment break through and leave their mark.

But today isn’t just about celebrating the last 20 years, it’s about casting our vision for the next 20 — and why I believe the next revolution in creativity and brand building will be made on YouTube.

At YouTube, creators have been captivating us since the beginning. In the early days, they uploaded grainy, unscripted videos from their bedrooms. They honed their craft, built communities, and spawned a new creative class.

Today, creators are the startups of Hollywood.

Last year, his debut documentary, Kaizen, premiered in both cinemas across the country and on YouTube, where it racked up 17 million views in less than 48 hours.

Now these creators are coming to the biggest screen in the house – the television. Viewers now watch over one billion hours of YouTube on their TVs every day… And for more than half of the top 100 most watched YouTube channels in the world, TV is their most watched screen.

With these audiences in mind, creators are serializing their shows and releasing them in HD, like The Broski Report, a weekly show celebrating pop culture.

neal mohan cannes lions 2025 0.max 700x3000.format webp 1

“YouTube allows you to be your authentic self in the sense that you have complete creative control. I’m directing [and] writing the episodes, [how long] I want them to be. Those personal touches make a world of difference.”

Alex Cooper

Creator and host of Call Her Daddy

Creators are pioneering the new TV… and it doesn’t look like the old TV.

When viewers tune in, they want to watch what matters to them, unconstrained by format, genre or style.

They want to experience the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest, then watch past music performances by their favorite artists. They want to livestream the Cannes Film Festival alongside creators’ red carpet reactions and Palme D’or predictions. They want to watch highlights of the U.S. and France Olympic basketball matchup, followed by a two-hour podcast with a breakdown from NBA legends.

And let’s talk about podcasts, one of the most relevant formats driving culture today. On YouTube alone, one billion viewers are watching podcasts every month.

Rotten Mango, hosted by creator Stephanie Soo, gained over 2 million new subscribers in just a year after she began incorporating video. She’s now topping our new weekly YouTube podcast charts.

Creators clearly have huge cultural power… backed by the relationships they build with their communities of ride-or-die fans. These fandoms don’t just follow culture, they shape it.

And rather than just watching a video, fans put their own unique spin on it. Last fall, Glitch dropped the animated dark comedy series, The Amazing Digital Circus. The pilot episode alone racked up over 300 million views. But the response from fans went even more viral. The songs, memes and spinoff content they created about the show collectively generated 25 billion views.

Fandom itself is becoming a form of creative expression — everything from reaction videos to fan art and more. And one of the easiest ways to jump in is through short form video.

At YouTube, we’re seeing a huge uptick in the amount of people creating — and watching — Shorts.

Creator and host of Call Her Daddy

Now these creators are coming to the biggest screen in the house – the television. Viewers now watch over one billion hours of YouTube on their TVs every day… And for more than half of the top 100 most watched YouTube channels in the world, TV is their most watched screen.

With these audiences in mind, creators are serializing their shows and releasing them in HD, like The Broski Report, a weekly show celebrating pop culture.

Creators are pioneering the new TV… and it doesn’t look like the old TV.

When viewers tune in, they want to watch what matters to them, unconstrained by format, genre or style.

They want to experience the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest, then watch past music performances by their favorite artists. They want to livestream the Cannes Film Festival alongside creators’ red carpet reactions and Palme D’or predictions. They want to watch highlights of the U.S. and France Olympic basketball matchup, followed by a two-hour podcast with a breakdown from NBA legends.

And let’s talk about podcasts, one of the most relevant formats driving culture today. On YouTube alone, one billion viewers are watching podcasts every month.

Creator and host of Chicken Shop Date

My show started 10 years ago… I actually pitched it to broadcasters. And everyone said, no, so then I decided to put it on YouTube, and it’s the best thing that I’ve ever done.

Amelia Dimoldenberg

“Today, I’m excited to share a new milestone: YouTube Shorts are now averaging over 200 billion daily views!”

One last, critical point about these communities of fans: they don’t just exist online. Fandoms that start on YouTube drive culture in the real world.

In 2013, a group of creators came together over a shared love of gaming, calling themselves the Sidemen. Today, they’re one of YouTube’s largest collectives with more than 150 million subscribers across their channels.

They’ve created their own merchandise lines, opened a physical store, established a fast-food chain, and more. Every year, they compete against other creators in the Sidemen Charity Match. This year, they sold out Wembley Stadium — just like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran and BTS.

This explosion of creativity—from fan-made content to real-world moments—proves that fandom is no longer just about consumption; it’s a powerful force steering culture.

Now there’s another important way that creators are showing us what the future looks like: AI.

Like startups, creators are among the earliest adopters and fastest movers when it comes to cutting-edge technology.

Tools that empower storytellers don’t just make things easier. They change who gets to tell the story in the first place.

Brandon Baum

Creator

I am incredibly excited by the potential of AI tools to empower human creativity.

We’re already seeing this on YouTube. Veo is Google Deepmind’s video generation model which lets you create AI-generated backgrounds and video clips for Shorts. We’ve put this model into the hands of creators with Dream Screen. Last month, Google announced the newest model: Veo 3, which vastly improves video quality and incorporates audio.

Today, I’m proud to share that Veo 3 will be coming to YouTube Shorts later this summer.

I believe these tools will open new creative lanes for everyone to explore. But what’s even more exciting than what you see on the screen, is how AI is helping creatives behind the scenes.

Language, for example, is one of the biggest barriers to growing a global audience. Our Auto Dubbing feature already translates videos across 9 different languages with 11 more coming soon, and dramatically increases the potential audiences a creator or brand can reach.

In the six months since creators started using this feature, we’ve already dubbed more than 20 million videos using AI.

The possibilities with AI are limitless.

A lot can change in a generation. Entertainment itself has changed more in the last two decades than any other time in history. Creators led this revolution.

My bet for the next 20 years? Creators will flip formats, blend genres, and push deeper into the mainstream — as brand ambassadors, big business ventures and visionary storytellers. Communities will continue to surprise us with the power of their collective fandom. And cutting-edge AI technology will push the limits of human creativity.

My biggest bet is that YouTube will continue to be the stage where it all happens. Where anyone with a story to share can turn their dream into a career… and anyone with a voice can bring people together and change the world.

Thanks for being a part of this journey with us.

India’s GST Council Approves Overhaul of Tax Rates and Slabs

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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announcing new GST tax rates 2025

On September 3–4, 2025, in the 56th GST Council meeting, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, a landmark reform of India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) was enacted—arguably the most sweeping overhaul since its inception in 2017.

What Changed?

Simplified Slab Structure

Zero-GST for Essentials & Critical Medicines

5% GST on Common Goods

  • Daily essentials now come under 5%, including:
    • Hair oil, shampoo, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, and shaving cream (down from 18%)
    • Butter, ghee, cheese, spreads (down from 12%)
    • Pre-packaged namkeens, utensils, feeding bottles (down from 12%)Hindustan TimesNews on Air
  • Healthcare devices like thermometers, glucometers, diagnostic kits, and oxygen moved from 12–18% to 5%.Hindustan TimesNews on Air
  • Insurance (life and health) is now fully exempt, aiming to improve coverage among citizens.The Indian ExpressNews on Air

18% GST for Larger Goods

  • Goods aimed at middle-class aspirational consumption—like air conditioners, TVs, dishwashers—now attract 18% GST (down from 28%).IndiatimesNews on AirReuters
  • Small cars, motorcycles (under 350cc), buses, ambulances, trucks, cement, and auto parts also come under the 18% bracket.IndiatimesReutersNews on Air

40% GST on Sin & Luxury Goods

  • Items perceived as harmful (sin goods) or ultra-luxury items are taxed at 40%:

Implementation & Economics

  • The changes take effect September 22, 2025, aligned with the start of Navratri.IndiatimesReutersThe Times of India+1
  • The government anticipates a revenue impact of approximately ₹48,000 crore (~USD 5.5 billion), seen as fiscally manageable.ReutersThe Times of IndiaNews on Air
  • Forecasters project that inflation could decrease by around 1.1 percentage points due to lower costs in daily consumer goods.Reuters
  • Markets responded positively—Nifty and Sensex rose ~0.5%, with auto and FMCG stocks rallying.Reuters

Official Statements & Political Response

  • PM Modi called the reform a “double dose of support and growth,” praising its broad benefits and calling it more than a rate cut—it was structural reform.India Today
  • FM Sitharaman termed it GST 2.0—a structural simplification that also resolves inverted duty and classification issues.Vision IASBusiness StandardNews on Air
  • Across parties, the reform is hailed as boosting ease-of-doing-business, consumer welfare, and macro stability.The Indian ExpressIndia Today

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

QA
1. What date do the new GST rates kick in?They become effective from September 22, 2025 (start of Navratri).(Indiatimes, Reuters, The Times of India)
2. Why simplify to 5% and 18% only?This two-tier system reduces complexity, curtails classification disputes, and makes compliance easier for businesses and better for consumers.(The Economic Times, Vision IAS, Business Standard)
3. Which items now have no GST?Essentials like UHT milk, paneer, roti, life-saving medicines, and educational supplies are now GST-exempt.(Business Standard, News on Air)
4. What falls under the 5% slab?Daily-use items (soap, snacks), healthcare products, insurance, and agricultural equipment.(Hindustan Times, News on Air)
5. What is taxed at 18% now?Higher-end appliances, small vehicles, cement, auto parts, and more are now at 18%.(Indiatimes, News on Air)
6. What qualifies as “sin goods” at 40%?Tobacco, gutkha, aerated drinks, luxury vehicles, aircraft, yachts, and guns are taxed at the highest rate.(The Times of India, The Economic Times)
7. What is the fiscal impact?Expected revenue loss is around ₹48,000 crore—a figure the government deems sustainable.(Reuters, The Times of India, News on Air)
8. How will this affect inflation and consumption?Daily goods prices may drop, potentially reducing inflation by ~1.1%, and boosting domestic demand especially during the festive season.(Reuters)
9. Who benefits the most?Middle-class families, rural consumers, MSMEs, healthcare, auto (esp. small cars), FMCG, and insurance sectors benefit through lower taxes or stimulus demand.(Reuters, News on Air)
10. What about compensation cess on tobacco?The cess continues until compensation liabilities are cleared; thereafter, the total effective rate stabilizes at 40%.(The Indian Express, India Today)

Conclusion

This historic GST reform—affectionately termed “GST 2.0”—marks a significant stride in India’s fiscal policy. By simplifying slabs, offering relief to households, rationalizing taxation on goods and services, and balancing revenue sustainability, these measures aim to:

  • Empower everyday consumers
  • Boost business confidence
  • Enhance administrative clarity
  • Foster economic growth

With implementation set for September 22, 2025, these reforms herald a new era of streamlined taxation and inclusive economic progress.

New GST Rates 2025 LIVE Updates: Pay Less for Grooming as Salon, Gym, Yoga Centres Become Affordable after GST Slashed.

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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announces new GST rates 2025 in GST Council meeting

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has rolled out one of the most significant tax reforms in India since its inception in 2017. At the 56th GST Council meeting held in New Delhi, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the government announced a historic GST rationalisation. The number of GST slabs has now been simplified from four to just two slabs — 5% and 18%. A special 40% slab has been retained for luxury and demerit goods such as tobacco, pan masala, and certain luxury vehicles.

This overhaul comes at a crucial time when India is seeking to boost domestic demand, encourage compliance, and reduce consumer burden. Among the biggest beneficiaries of this reform are grooming, fitness, and wellness services, which will now attract just 5% GST instead of the earlier 18%.

This translates into a 13% direct saving for customers availing services at salons, gyms, yoga centres, and wellness clubs, though these services will no longer enjoy the benefit of Input Tax Credit (ITC).

The new rates will be effective from September 22, 2025, coinciding with the start of the Navratri festive season, ensuring maximum impact on consumer sentiment.

GST Reforms 2025: What Changed?

Old System vs New System

Earlier, GST in India was levied in four main slabs: 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%, with an additional cess on sin goods like tobacco and luxury cars. The complexity of multiple slabs created compliance issues, frequent disputes, and consumer confusion.

The New GST Structure (effective September 22, 2025):

SlabRateKey Items/Services
0%NILEducation materials (pencil, eraser, notebooks), health and life insurance, essential medicines, UHT milk, paneer, chapati, life-saving drugs
5%5%Grooming & wellness services (salon, gym, yoga, spas – without ITC), personal care products (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, hair oil), snacks, dairy products, kitchenware
18%18%Small cars (≤1200cc petrol, ≤1500cc diesel), electronics (TV, AC, washing machines), premium services
40%40%Luxury & sin goods (tobacco, cigarettes, pan masala, large SUVs, luxury yachts)

Why Grooming and Fitness Services Got Cheaper

The government has identified the grooming and wellness sector as one of the fastest-growing industries in India, driven by rising disposable incomes, increasing health awareness, and urban lifestyles.

By cutting GST on these services:

  • Consumers save 13% instantly on salon, gym, spa, and yoga services.
  • More people are encouraged to avail these services, boosting health and wellness adoption.
  • Small businesses benefit as simpler tax rates reduce compliance hassle.
  • The decision was also seen as a populist step ahead of the festive season, bringing cheer to the middle class.

However, the withdrawal of ITC (Input Tax Credit) means that service providers cannot claim tax credit on their purchases (like equipment, beauty products, or fitness machines). This may slightly increase operational costs for businesses, but overall demand is expected to surge.

Impact on Consumers

For ordinary citizens, the GST rate cut translates into direct savings:

  • Salon visit (₹1,000 bill): Earlier with 18% GST, customers paid ₹1,180. Now with 5% GST, they pay ₹1,050.
  • Gym membership (₹10,000 annually): Earlier cost ₹11,800; now reduced to ₹10,500.
  • Yoga classes (₹5,000 package): Earlier ₹5,900; now ₹5,250.

This makes grooming, wellness, and fitness far more affordable for middle-income households.

Impact on Service Providers

While the reduced rate benefits customers, salons and gyms may face challenges due to loss of ITC. For example:

  • A salon buying beauty products, creams, and equipment will now bear the tax burden directly, since ITC cannot be claimed.
  • Similarly, gyms importing fitness machines will face higher input costs.

However, since customer volumes are expected to rise due to reduced costs, increased footfall may compensate for the ITC loss.

Impact on the Economy

  1. Boost in Consumption: Lower GST rates on everyday services will push people to spend more, especially during the festive season.
  2. Revenue Loss for Government: The estimated revenue loss is around ₹48,000 crore annually. However, this could be balanced by higher compliance and larger tax base.
  3. Positive Consumer Sentiment: By announcing these reforms before Navratri, the government has strategically targeted festive spending.
  4. Sector Growth: The grooming and fitness industry is projected to grow at double digits, creating more jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Other Essential Goods Made Cheaper

Apart from grooming services, several everyday essentials have also been made cheaper:

  • Personal care: Shampoo, toothpaste, soap, hair oil – now at 5%.
  • Food products: Paneer, bread, chapati, UHT milk – GST free.
  • Education materials: Pencil, eraser, notebooks – GST free.
  • Insurance: Life and health insurance – GST free.
  • Travel & lifestyle: Some hospitality and mid-range travel services reduced to 5%.

This massive rationalisation ensures that the common man feels real savings in their monthly budget.

Challenges in the New GST Regime

While the reforms are largely positive, certain challenges remain:

  • Loss of ITC may hurt organised businesses.
  • Revenue shortfall could pressure government finances.
  • Implementation issues as businesses adjust billing systems to new rates.
  • Inflationary pressures on luxury and sin goods due to steep 40% GST.

Reactions from Industry & Experts

  • Salon owners welcomed the move, saying it will increase customer walk-ins and encourage middle-class families to opt for grooming services.
  • Fitness industry stakeholders believe gym memberships will rise, especially among youth and working professionals.
  • Economists argue that while the revenue impact is real, the long-term benefits of increased compliance and consumption outweigh the short-term loss.
  • Consumers on social media hailed it as an “early Diwali gift” from the government.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When will the new GST rates be applicable?
A: The new GST rates come into effect from September 22, 2025, coinciding with the start of Navratri.

Q2: What is the new GST rate for salon, gym, and yoga services?
A: The new GST rate is 5% (without ITC). Earlier, these services attracted 18% GST with ITC.

Q3: Will salon and gym services become cheaper?
A: Yes. Customers will save around 13% on bills. For example, a ₹1,000 salon bill earlier cost ₹1,180, but now it will cost only ₹1,050.

Q4: Why is ITC not allowed on these services anymore?
A: To simplify compliance and reduce fraud, ITC has been withdrawn on services taxed at 5%. Businesses must absorb their input costs.

Q5: Which items are now GST free?
A: Life and health insurance, life-saving medicines, UHT milk, paneer, chapati, and school supplies like pencils and erasers are GST exempt.

Q6: What are the new GST slabs?
A: The slabs are 0%, 5%, 18%, and 40% (for luxury and sin goods).

Q7: Will the government lose revenue because of this cut?
A: Yes, an estimated loss of ₹48,000 crore annually, but it is expected to be balanced by higher compliance and increased demand.

Q8: How does this affect the middle class?
A: Direct savings on grooming, wellness, and personal care services/products, making lifestyles more affordable.

Q9: Are luxury goods taxed higher now?
A: Yes. Luxury cars, SUVs, pan masala, and tobacco products attract 40% GST.

Q10: Will this GST cut help boost India’s economy?
A: Absolutely. With more disposable income, consumer spending will rise, boosting domestic demand and supporting economic growth.

Conclusion

The GST reforms of 2025 mark a watershed moment in India’s taxation landscape. By slashing GST on grooming and fitness services from 18% to 5%, the government has not only reduced the financial burden on consumers but also boosted one of the fastest-growing sectors of the economy.

Though the withdrawal of ITC presents challenges for service providers, the anticipated surge in consumer demand is expected to offset these costs. Moreover, the rationalisation of GST slabs brings simplicity, transparency, and relief to millions of households.

From salons to gyms, from shampoos to everyday essentials, the average Indian can now expect to spend less and save more. With implementation set before the festive season, the timing could not have been better.

The New GST regime is, in many ways, a step toward “One Nation, One Tax – Simplified”, fulfilling the original vision behind GST while making life easier for businesses and consumers alike.