Karnataka's Chief Minister Enforces Commercial Tax Targets

Karnataka's CM Siddaramaiah, during a review meeting, stressed the importance of meeting commercial tax collection targets set at Rs 1,10,000 crore for 2024-25. As of October, Rs 58,773 crore has been collected. Coordinated efforts are essential to achieve this target. Excise Department was also urged to curb illegal liquor smuggling.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah issued a stern warning to officials failing to meet commercial tax collection targets, emphasizing accountability. The review meeting focused on achieving the Rs 1,10,000 crore target for 2024-25.

Currently, the state has collected Rs 58,773 crore by the end of October, with significant contributions from GST, Karnataka Sales Tax, and Professional Tax. The state has achieved 53.5% of its target so far, with a year-on-year increase of Rs 5,957 crore.

To fill the gap, Rs 10,200 crore must be collected monthly over the next five months. Siddaramaiah highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts, stating the target is crucial for state development. Additionally, the 'Karasamadhana' scheme aims to raise another Rs 2,000 crore. The CM also demanded stricter measures from the Excise Department to curb illegal liquor activities, setting an excise tax collection target of Rs 38,525 crore for 2024-25.

(With inputs from agencies.)