GST evasion typologies, collaborative efforts, and leveraging technology for early detection of potential evaders were the Key topics discussed in the Conference.
The first-ever National Conference of Enforcement Chiefs of State and Central GST Formations took place in New Delhi on March 4, 2024, inaugurated by Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman. The event marked a significant step towards enhancing collaboration and efficiency among tax authorities in their enforcement actions.
The conference was graced by the presence of Union Minister of State for Finance, Shri Pankaj Chaudhary, Secretary of the Department of Revenue, Shri Sanjay Malhotra, Chairman of CBIC, Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, along with senior officials from the Department of Revenue, GST Enforcement Chiefs of the States and Central GST authorities, and representatives from various enforcement agencies.
In her address, Union Finance Minister Sitharaman praised the relentless efforts of both Central and State GST formations since 2017, highlighting their role in making GST a robust and technology-driven system.
She emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to address loopholes, improve taxpayer services, and encouraged sharing of innovative practices among states for seamless coordination in national interest.
The finance minister urged regular meetings among enforcement chiefs to discuss challenges, share successful strategies, and collectively strengthen the tax infrastructure. She also stressed the need for prompt resolution of classification-related issues through appropriate channels.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sitharaman noted significant improvements in systems over the past decade, emphasizing the need for continuous efforts towards transparency and efficiency in the tax system.
Encouraging GST officials to engage with stakeholders, Sitharaman highlighted the importance of compliance enhancement, streamlined processes, and collaborative efforts for a more transparent tax regime.
Minister of State for Finance, Shri Pankaj Chaudhary, hailed GST as a monumental reform in India, simplifying indirect taxation and reducing effective tax rates for the benefit of citizens. He commended the GST authorities for their role in boosting revenue collections and contributing to the nation’s progress.
Revenue Secretary, Shri Sanjay Malhotra, underscored enforcement’s crucial role in the success of the GST system, outlining priorities such as targeting high-risk areas, combating tax evasion, and enhancing collaboration between central and state authorities.
CBIC Chairman, Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, highlighted the threat of fake entities and GST evasion to national revenue and fair competition. He emphasized the importance of data analytics, technology, and staying ahead of perpetrators of GST evasion.
During the conference, various GST formations made presentations showcasing their initiatives. Notably, the crackdown on fake registrations and bogus billing resulted in significant detections of tax evasion, highlighting the effectiveness of enforcement efforts.
Thematic sessions delved into topics such as GST evasion typologies, collaborative efforts, and leveraging technology for early detection of potential evaders. Best practices from enforcement agencies were shared, emphasizing a taxpayer-friendly approach and evidence-based inquiries.
The conference facilitated knowledge sharing and collaboration between central and state authorities, with participants reviewing past actions and identifying future focus areas. Based on the positive outcomes, it was decided to hold the conference bi-annually to continue the exchange of experiences and knowledge.
The event showcased the commitment of India’s tax authorities to combat tax evasion, ensure fair taxation, and create a more efficient and transparent tax environment for businesses and taxpayers alike,
To Access the related official press release of Ministry of Finance CLICK HERE
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