CM Bhupendra Patel Lauds Shift to People-Centric Tax Model on 165th Income Tax Day

On the 165th Income Tax Day, CM Bhupendra Patel commended the transformation towards a people-centric tax system under PM Modi's leadership. Highlighting key reforms, he noted Gujarat's significant tax contributions and the enhanced transparency through technological innovations. The event honoured top taxpayers and emphasized collaborative efforts for a prosperous India.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel commended the shift from a process-centric to a people-centric tax model, attributed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reform, perform, and transform vision. Speaking at an event by the Income Tax Department to celebrate the 165th Income Tax Day in Ahmedabad, Patel recognized taxpayers through the 'Honoring the Honest' initiative.

He stressed that in the Prime Minister's third term, turning India into the world's third-largest economy will require future-oriented infrastructure, technology, welfare schemes, and judicious use of taxpayer contributions. Patel underscored the critical role of taxpayer funds, applauding Modi for improving transparency and ease of operations in the Income Tax Department through technological advancements.

The CM acknowledged advancements for taxpayers over recent decades, citing increased transparency from faceless assessments and appeals. He highlighted this year's Union Budget's focus on simplifying taxation and enhancing taxpayer services.

Patel pointed out that reviewing the Income Tax Act of 1961 for clarity is a key budgetary aspect. Collaboration between taxpayers and department personnel is vital for achieving Modi's 'Viksit Bharat' vision. Gujarat, he said, is a growth engine and role model, leading in tax contributions with a collection of 64 thousand crore rupees in 2023-24 and a return filing growth rate surpassing the national average.

At the event, Chief Income Tax Commissioner Yashwant Chauhan recalled that tax revenue was first included in the budget in 1860 by Finance Minister James Wilson, with subsequent Acts in 1865, 1922, and 1961. Chauhan praised the nation's sectoral progress and projected the department's 46 percent contribution to the 2024-25 budgeted revenue, emphasizing its role in national development. Chief Income Tax Commissioner of TDS, Dr Banwarilal, lauded Gujarat's policies fostering significant business growth and tax collections, assuring dedicated service to taxpayers. The event saw the Chief Minister honouring top taxpayers and a new leading local manufacturing company for their contributions.

The ceremony was attended by numerous Income Tax Department officers, employees, and taxpayers from related departments. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)