After inflation, new GST rates on everyday essential products and services are hurting household budgets. The new Goods and Service Tax (GST) rates come into effect today, and many essential goods and services have become more expensive. Five per cent GST will be applicable on pre-packed, labelled food items, including atta, paneer, and curd, and hospital rooms with rent above Rs 5,000. Meanwhile, an 18 per cent GST will be levied on tetra packs. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said, "I demand the central government to take back GST applied on materials of everyday use of basic food products, it is not right."