The Government of India’s Ministry of Finance, through the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), marked the 75th anniversary of India’s Constitution on November 26, 2024, encouraging officers to uphold its values. The CBIC also received a Bronze Medal for “Public Communication and Outreach” at the 43rd India International Trade Fair. The successful Global Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Dialogue in New Delhi saw over 300 participants discussing global trade partnerships, with the signing of a Joint Action Plan with Brazil and the release of the AEO Journal. In enforcement news, the DGGI Rajkot Regional Unit uncovered a significant GST evasion case worth Rs. 131.23 Crore. Meanwhile, the DRI Kolkata Zonal Unit intercepted a container at Kolkata Port, seizing smuggled cigarettes worth Rs. 12.13 Crore. CBIC also bid farewell to Sh. Rajiv Talwar and Sh. Ashish Varma, acknowledging their significant contributions to indirect tax administration.
Weekly newsletter from Chairman, CBIC, Dated: 02.12.2024
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs
DO No. 49/News Letter/CH(IC)/2024 Dated: 02.12.2024
Dear Colleague,
Last week, India commemorated a historic milestone – the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of India. On November 26, 1949, the Indian Constituent Assembly formally adopted the Constitution, which came into effect on January 26, 1950, establishing India as a sovereign, democratic republic. November 26 has been formally declared by the Government of India as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) to honour the adoption of the Indian Constitution. As officers of indirect taxes, we must always remain mindful of our roles and responsibilities as outlined in the Constitution, ensuring that our work aligns with its principles and values.
As you are aware, CBIC participated enthusiastically in the 43rd India International Trade Fair by having a GST and Customs Pavilion. I am pleased to announce that CBIC has been conferred the Bronze Medal in the “Ministries and Department Pavilion” category for “Public Communication and Outreach” at the Trade Fair. This is not only a recognition of the public’s appreciation of the work being done by CBIC but also speaks volumes of the hard work of team DGTS.
The Global Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Dialogue, held last week in New Delhi, was a huge success with wide participation from our global trade partners and other stakeholders, both international and domestic. The event, titled “India AEO Dialogue: Enhancing Global Trade Partnerships,” brought together over 300 participants, including policymakers, international organizations, industry leaders, and trade experts from over 20 countries. The dialogue provided an engaging platform to share experiences, discuss challenges, and chart a path for strengthening the AEO framework globally. Key highlights of the Dialogue included the signing of a Joint Action Plan (JAP) with Brazil on the sidelines and the unveiling of the AEO Journal titled “AEO: Pathways to Ease”, which documents the journey of the Indian Customs AEO programme since its inception in 2011, its positive impacts, benefits to different stakeholders and industry experiences about the programme. The World Bank, as the knowledge partner for the event, added immense value through its expertise and insights, further enriching the deliberations.
In a significant enforcement action, the DGGI Rajkot Regional Unit, unearthed a major GST evasion case amounting to Rs. 131.23 Crore involving clandestine supply, under-invoicing, and issuance of fake invoices in the supply of petroleum oil and its derivatives. Through meticulous analysis of E-Way bills, BIFA reports, and GST returns, and leveraging human intelligence and IP location analysis, the officers identified a secret office. Searches led to the seizure of incriminating documents and electronic devices indicating stock discrepancies. The mastermind behind the operation has been arrested and the evasion amount is expected to rise as investigations continue. Bravo!
On the Customs enforcement side, DRI Kolkata Zonal Unit intercepted a transshipment container at Kolkata Port, uncovering an attempt to bring into the Indian territory smuggled cigarettes concealed in the consignment of “Baby Diapers”. Upon examination, the container was found to be concealing 71.4 lakh cigarette sticks of the “Gold Flake Honeydew Smooth” brand, valued at Rs. 12.13 crores, along with a cover cargo of 3,750 baby diapers. The seizure highlights the department’s continued vigilance in curbing illicit trade.
Last week, CBIC bade a heartfelt farewell to Sh. Rajiv Talwar, Special Secretary and Member CBIC. His long and illustrious career has been marked by unparalleled commitment and exemplary leadership, which has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the indirect tax administration. Sh. Ashish Varma, Principal Chief Commissioner, also superannuated last month. Dear colleagues, as you embark on new chapters in life, we extend our deepest gratitude and wish you health, happiness, and success in all your future endeavours.
Until next week!
Yours sincerely,
(Sanjay Kumar Agarwal)
All Officers and Staff of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes 86 Customs.
