Assam Overhauls Tax Department to Boost State Revenue

Guwahati: Assam Finance Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah pushed for a total overhaul of the state tax department on October 9. He wants the restructuring finished before the next financial year kicks off. The move targets better administration and higher collection rates across Guwahati. Officials held the review at Kar Bhawan to map out this new strategy.

Baruah set fresh, individual revenue targets based on how well specific officers perform. He told the team that building a stronger, own-source revenue base is vital for economic growth. The state needs to cut its reliance on external funding. During the meeting, he asked staff to flag practical field hurdles and pitch solutions to clean up operations. He stated, "Strengthening revenue collection was important for Assam's economic growth and financial self-reliance."

Tax Commissioner Jitu Doley joined the session alongside senior staff. Before the review, Baruah handed out certificates to tax inspectors who finished a 50-day training course. He demanded they act with integrity and push for results that beat the national average. He pointed to the state's consumer-driven economy and GST as the primary engines for future gains.