GST Council approves simplified Returns model; Defers decision on levy of Sugar Cess

GST Council agrees to buy out 51% stake of private companies in GSTN; Defers decision on levy of Sugar Cess, reducing duties on ethanol; Group of 5 Ministers to consider avenues for raising revenue in case of contingencies, such as where the cost of a commodity is higher than its selling price; As regards the simplification of returns, GST Council approves implementation of new model within next 6 months; Current system of Form GSTR-3B and GSTR-1 to continue in the meanwhile;...