Introduction
Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, the Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), released a weekly newsletter dated September 4, 2023. This article delves into the key takeaways, including updates on the Mera Bill Mera Adhikaar Scheme, the new e-HRMS 2.0, and other noteworthy events.
Mera Bill Mera Adhikaar Scheme
Launched on a pilot basis in Assam, Gujarat, and Haryana along with certain Union Territories, this scheme aims to boost Business-to-Customer (B2C) tax compliance. So far, the app associated with the scheme has garnered about 2.96 lakh downloads on both Android and iOS platforms. Notably, high-ranking officials including the Deputy Chief Minister of Haryana have personally participated in the initiative, setting an example for the public.
e-HRMS 2.0
The e-Human Resource Management System, or e-HRMS 2.0, is set to become a one-point solution for HR needs. CBIC will implement e-HRMS across India and Chairman Agarwal urges all zones and directorates to prepare for this migration.
Other Initiatives
- In West Bengal, officers from the Kolkata Zonal Unit seized approximately 15 kg of foreign-origin gold valued at around Rs. 8.50 Crore.
- Promotions of 97 Administrative Officers to the post of Chief Accounts Officer were finalized.
Tribute and Farewell
Chairman Agarwal paid tribute to the former CBIC Chairman, Shri R. Gopalnathan, who recently passed away, and extended best wishes to officers on their superannuation.
Conclusion
The newsletter from the Chairman of CBIC offers a comprehensive update on various initiatives and events that took place in the past week. The Mera Bill Mera Adhikaar Scheme and e-HRMS 2.0 stand out as major steps towards modernizing governance and improving compliance.
The Chairman’s personal engagement in these initiatives highlights their importance and sets a precedent for other officials to follow. His updates continue to provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of indirect taxation and customs in India.
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Weekly newsletter from Chairman, CBIC dated 04.09.2023
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs
04th September, 2023
Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Chairman,
DO No. 05/News Letter/CH(IC)/2023
For the coming week, as the G-20 leaders gather and unite for the first time in the historic city of Delhi, I wish that the G-20 summit meet resounding success, fostering international cooperation and dialogue on global challenges, and securing a brighter future for the world.
In the week gone by, the newly launched Mera Bill Mera Adhikaar Scheme took the limelight. As you are aware, the scheme has been launched on pilot basis in the States of Assam, Gujarat and Haryana and in the UTs of Dadra 86 Nagar Haveli, Daman 86 Diu and Puducherry. The overall objective of the scheme is to encourage the customers to demand an invoice so as to improve B2C tax compliance. I am sure that the attractive rewards will keep the consumers interested. To put things in perspective, there have been about 2.96 lakh downloads of the Mera Bill Mera Adhikaar app on both Android and iOS devices. The participation of the people is truly encouraging.
The Deputy Chief Minister of Haryana, in a show of support for the scheme, personally participated in this initiative by uploading a bill for his purchase from a grocery shop in Gurugram. He was joined by the Revenue Secretary and other high ranking officials of the Centre and the State of Haryana. If you ask me, my experience of uploading an invoice on the app was smooth.
The other States have fared no less. In Puducherry, Hon’ble Chief Minister launched the Scheme while the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Assam broadcasted a message to the people of the State making them aware of the salient features of this novel initiative. Similarly, the scheme was flagged off in Vapi by the Hon’ble Minister of Finance, Government of Gujarat. It would be in our best interests to widely publicise the scheme and drive a positive change in the B2C behaviour.
I will take a moment to briefly mention the revamped and upgraded e-Human Resource Management System (or e-HRMS) Version 2.0, an initiative of Department of Personnel and Training, being developed with the objective to make the portal as a one-point solution for HR needs of the employees to avail end-to-end online services. In version 2.0, the onboarding process simply involves the officers updating their profiles on the portal which will be verified by the nodal officer/admin. As you would be aware, CBIC shall be implementing e-HRMS on an all-India basis. I, therefore, urge the Zones and the Directorates to have the groundwork ready and work in cooperation with DGHRD so that CBIC takes a lead in migration to this portal.
Moving on, during the week, officers of the Kolkata Zonal Unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence seized about 15 Kg foreign origin gold valued around Rs. 8.50 Crore which had crossed the international border near Gede in West Bengal. The enhanced vigil by the officers of DRI and the joint operation with Border Security Force merits special appreciation!
On the HR front, I am delighted to share that last week the promotions of 97 Administrative officers to the post of Chief Accounts Officer (CGST 86 Directorates) saw the light of day. It shall be my pursuit to keep a tab on the promotions due.
Yesterday, I was informed that former CBIC Chairman, Shri R. Gopalnathan, has left for heavenly abode. A decorated officer of the 1964 batch, he was recently awarded the prestigious DRI Iftkrisht Seva Samman’. Shri Gopalnathan’s leadership and wisdom have left an indelible mark on the Department, and his loss will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working with him. During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.
Before signing off for the week, I would like to extend my heartfelt best wishes to Dr. Uma Shanker, Shri Ajay Ganesh Ubale and Shri Ram Chander Sankhla on their superannuation. The fraternity will deeply cherish your legacy of hard work and camaraderie!
Yours sincerely,
(Sanjay Kumar Agarwal)
All Officers and Staff of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes 86 Customs
