Explanation:

- The GST compensation cess is a levy to help states recover revenue deficits post-GST implementation.

- Initially, this cess was supposed to end in 2022, five years after GST came into effect in 2017.

- Option 1: 2026 - This is the correct date. The government extended the GST compensation cess till 2026 to repay the borrowings made for compensation during the pandemic.

- Option 2: 2030 - There is no extension till this date.

- Option 3: 2050 - This date is far off and not currently considered.

- Option 4: 2024 - This option is incorrect; the extension is beyond this year.

- Option 5: 2023 - Extension already surpasses this year.