goods and service tax
Last week marked the fifth anniversary of the Goods & Services Tax (GST), a journey filled with significant developments in India's tax regime. As a young Assistant Commissioner in the Department, I witnessed the inception of MODVAT, the precursor to a VAT-based system, followed by the introduction of Service Tax. Now, with GST in place, I feel rejuvenated by the progress we’ve made.
The introduction of GST has substantially resolved many issues inherent in the previous tax structure, such as:
Despite a steep learning curve for both businesses and tax authorities, the GST regime has stabilized, thanks to the proactive approach of the GST Council, the implementation of technology through the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN), the IGST model for inter-state transactions, and extensive outreach and capacity building programs.
I felt a profound sense of pride when the Hon’ble Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs recognized and appreciated the immense efforts made by the CBIC family during the challenging COVID-19 period. Our team remained committed to fulfilling our duties, ensuring the nation had the necessary resources during a critical time.
This recognition imposes a considerable responsibility on us to set and achieve even higher goals in enhancing revenue while improving taxpayer services. Let us commit to this mission with renewed enthusiasm.
The 5th GST Day Celebrations included insightful presentations from representatives of five Trade Bodies, focusing on topics such as:
I would like to congratulate the Principal Chief Commissioners from CGST Mumbai, Chennai, Bhopal, Kolkata, and the CEO of GSTN for mentoring these presentations.
I extend my appreciation to the Member (IT, Taxpayer Services & Technology) and his team, particularly the Directorate General Taxpayer Services (DGTS), as well as the Principal Chief Commissioner of CGST in Delhi and her team for successfully coordinating this notable event. The efforts of DGTS deserve applause for executing an effective social media campaign leading up to GST's fifth anniversary, producing a creative film documenting GST’s journey, and compiling an accessible guide on the subject—all under tight timelines.
Chandigarh hosted the GST Council's 47th Meeting last week, where a range of issues were discussed over two days, resulting in several decisions regarding both tax rates and procedures. I encourage you to review these outcomes and provide necessary guidance to trade members.
Recently, the National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN) in Faridabad organized a workshop and conference focusing on content creation for the Integrated Government Online Training (iGOT) platform. This platform facilitates various forms of online learning and enhances lifelong capacity building for government officials.
The conference, which resumed in physical mode this year after a two-year break, featured discussions led by the Member (Administration) of CBIC and members of the Capacity Building Commission (CBC) on topics related to capacity development and future learning needs. I commend the Principal Director General of NACIN for spearheading this workshop.
In addition, last week, the Delhi Customs Zone inaugurated an X-ray Baggage Scanning System at the ICD Tughlakabad Export Commissionerate. This advancement will significantly streamline baggage processing and enhance compliance. Congratulations to the Chief Commissioner of the Delhi Customs Zone and his team for this initiative. I encourage field formations to seek out and implement technological solutions that improve our operational efficiency.