Whether GST, excise, mining, or transport, each of these sectors holds potential; find new ways to boost revenue: CM Yogi

Chief Minister reviews the current status of non-tax revenue receipts for this financial year, emphasizing the need to accelerate efforts to meet targets

● Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewed the current status of non-tax revenue receipts for this financial year in a high-level meeting on Tuesday. He examined the revenue collection targets and relative receipts in GST, VAT, Excise, Stamp and Registration, Transport, Land Revenue, and Energy, addressing each area individually. The Chief Minister also provided essential instructions to departmental officers. Finance Minister Suresh Khanna, Excise Minister Nitin Agarwal, and Stamp and Registration Minister Ravindra Jaiswal were present at the meeting.

Major guidelines given by the Chief Minister in the meeting:

● Owing to well-planned efforts, the state has seen a steady increase in both tax and non-tax revenue collections. In the current financial year, against a target of Rs 2.70 lakh crore, over Rs 1.16 lakh crore has already been collected through various sources by October. This includes approximately Rs 64,000 crore from GST/VAT, Rs 26,000 crore from excise, Rs 17,700 crore from stamp and registration, Rs 2,000 crore from mining, and over Rs 6,300 crore from transportation. This collection level is considered satisfactory, as it represents public funds that will be directed towards the state’s development, public interests, and welfare programs.

● We must also focus on creating new avenues to boost revenue collection. Conduct weekly, biweekly, and monthly reviews of the targets assigned to each district. Prepare a performance report for each officer, assessing their efforts to enhance revenue collection.

● Through sustained efforts, the state now has over 31 lakh GST-registered traders. This number should be further increased, as there are immense opportunities in the state that should be leveraged. Officers’ responsibilities must be clearly defined, and postings should be based solely on merit.

● Enhanced vigilance is essential to prevent GST theft and evasion. Special disciplinary units and mobile squads should increase their activity. Although recent vigilance efforts have been successful in curbing tax theft and evasion, there is still a need for significant improvement in operational methods.

● The Excise Department plays a vital role in boosting revenue. Conduct weekly reviews of district-specific targets. Take immediate action against any officer found negligent in their duties. Ensure zero liquid discharge in distilleries to prevent river pollution from waste. Engage with the industry and encourage them to adopt advanced technology.

● We have made significant progress in curbing the production and sale of illegal or raw liquor. Actions against such activities must continue consistently. Vigilance must be maintained to prevent unauthorized liquor from entering the state from other regions. The Excise Department is expected to make stronger efforts to achieve the revenue collection target.

● In light of the needs of the general public, the rules regarding stamp and registration should be further simplified. Issues between builders and buyers must be resolved swiftly. For any pending registrations, whether related to Awas Vikas, Development Authority, or private builders, communication with both parties should occur to find a solution. We must safeguard the interests of every buyer, ensuring they receive their flat registration on time. Every necessary measure should be taken to facilitate this process. Additionally, new options should be explored to enhance revenue from registrations.

● No vehicle should be allowed on the road without the proper permit and fitness certification. Awareness campaigns must be intensified to reduce accidents.

● The mining season has begun, and strict action must be taken against illegal mining and overloading activities. There is significant potential in the mining sector; it is essential to recognize this and actively work to enhance revenue.