<h1>GST Launch Set for April 2017: Finance Minister Announces Major Tax Overhaul to Lower Living Costs.</h1> The government is targeting April 1, 2017, for the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in the country, as announced by the Finance Minister. The Constitution (101st Amendment) Act, 2016, allows the central government to levy excise duty and service tax, and state governments to levy sales tax or VAT until September 16, 2017. The GST Council, a joint forum of the Centre and States, will decide on tax rates and exemptions. Concerns were raised about clarity, transparency, IT network availability, and the need for awareness campaigns for small traders. The initiative aims to reduce the cost of living by moderating taxation rates.