<h1>GST 2.0 begins first day of Navratri with 5% and 18% rates, streamlined compliance and relief for essentials</h1> The Prime Minister announced that following the GST Council's approval of a comprehensive overhaul, revised GST rates and structural reforms will take legal effect from the first day of Navratri, introducing streamlined compliance and new 5% and 18% rate tiers. The government characterizes the changes as 'GST 2.0,' aimed at simplifying the regime and fostering economic growth, and frames the adjustments as relief for basic household goods previously subject to higher taxation. The announcement signals imminent regulatory and administrative implementation obligations for taxpayers and authorities.