Overview of Indian Customs Compliance Portal and Recent Trade Initiatives

Introduction

On August 4, 2021, the Board introduced the Indian Customs Compliance Information Portal (CIP), a valuable resource providing free access to information on Customs procedures and regulatory compliance for approximately 12,000 Customs Tariff lines. This initiative, aimed at enhancing the Ease of Doing Business in India, serves to empower businesses and individuals seeking to understand trade procedures, by offering current information on legal and procedural requirements from Customs and Partner Government Agencies, including FSSAI, AQIS, PQIS, and the Drug Controller.

Empowering Business Entities

The launch of the CIP is a significant step in facilitating trade. It is expected to benefit not only businesses but also anyone interested in the intricacies of trade, ensuring they have access to up-to-date information. I extend my congratulations to the team led by Shri Thamizh Valavan, Commissioner (Single Window), for this commendable initiative.

Performance Review in CGST Jaipur Zone

During my recent visit to the CGST Jaipur Zone, I engaged with the Chief Commissioner, officers, staff, and representatives from trade and industries. This visit included a performance review of the zone. Additionally, the Jodhpur Customs (Preventive) Commissionerate hosted a function to launch the Express Cargo Clearance System (ECCS) and release the yearbook of Jodhpur Customs (Preventive). The Chief Commissioner of Delhi Customs (Preventive) also participated in this event.

Crackdown on Fraud and Smuggling

The CBIC continues to take decisive action against fraudsters and smugglers, leading to notable cases last week:

• The DGGI, Gurugram Zonal Unit, has registered a case of GST evasion amounting to ₹235 crore related to the misclassification of instrument clusters.
• The DGGI, Meerut Zonal Unit, uncovered a major scam involving the passing of fake ITC through a network of bogus firms. The current detection stands at approximately ₹503 crore and may rise as investigations continue.
• The DGGI, Bengaluru Zonal Unit, has identified ₹9.7 crore in GST evasion following intelligence developed from BZU, prompting the company to deposit ₹14.32 crore, including GST, interest, and penalties.
• The CGST Ranchi Zone has revealed a scam involving fake bills and invoices that facilitated the passing of fake ITC amounting to about ₹27 crore, totaling ₹300 crore in value.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that CGST officers have uncovered input tax credit fraud exceeding ₹31,000 crore across more than 7,200 cases in FY 2020-21.

Anti-Smuggling Efforts

On the anti-smuggling front, the DRI, Siliguri Regional Unit, successfully intercepted three individuals on August 3, 2021, recovering approximately 33 pieces of ivory weighing 10.17 kgs. Follow-up actions led to the recovery of an additional 26 cut pieces of ivory weighing about 4.73 kgs from a workshop-cum-residence. I commend all officers involved in these successful operations against tax evasion and smuggling.

Welfare Initiatives

In line with our welfare initiatives, proposals from the DGHRD for ex-gratia financial assistance totaling ₹2.85 crores for 44 families of departmental employees who passed away in service, including due to COVID-19, have been approved. Furthermore, reimbursement of approximately ₹16.4 lakhs in medical claims incurred by 11 officers/staff members or their families has also been authorized. These funds should be distributed timely by the respective formations.

Additionally, a meeting of the DSC held on August 5, 2021, focused on granting NFSG on a regular basis to IRS (C&IT) officers from the 1988 to 2001 batches.

Recognition and Community Service

I am pleased to announce the winners of the 'Swachhta Awards 2020-2021'. Congratulations to the CGST Meerut Zone, Delhi Customs (Preventive) Zone, and DG Systems for being recognized in the Best Zone Category. The DGGI Siliguri Zonal Unit and Trichy CGST Commissionerate have been honored in the Best Commissionerate/Zonal Unit category. DGHRD will provide a comprehensive list of all winners, highlighting the commendable projects undertaken by field formations towards a ‘Clean India and Better India.’

Moreover, I applaud the CGST Ranchi Zone for their initiative in providing clean drinking water to a village previously lacking a reliable water source through the installation of a borewell, funded under the Swachhta program. This gesture significantly aids the local community.

Upcoming Celebrations and Achievements

As we approach the 75th Independence Day, various activities are planned to celebrate this milestone as part of the yearlong 'Azadi Kaa Amrut Mahotsav' program. I am confident that all Zones will participate enthusiastically in this occasion.