Introduction: The Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) brings forth significant developments in its latest communication, DO No. 10/News Letter/CH(IC)/2024, dated March 4, 2024. This comprehensive update covers diverse aspects, from a notable surge in revenue to cultural heritage preservation and technological advancements.
Detailed Analysis:
1. Revenue Growth: The communication begins with uplifting news of a 12.5% increase in revenue figures for February compared to the previous year, totaling 21.68 lakh crore. The average monthly gross collection for FY 2023-24 surpasses the preceding year’s, indicating a consistent upward trajectory in revenue generation.
2. Cultural Heritage Protection: CBIC acknowledges the Hon’ble Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs presiding over the handover ceremony of seized antiquities to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The ceremony, held at seven locations, emphasizes CBIC’s commitment to safeguarding India’s cultural heritage. Noteworthy is the personal handover of an idol of Lord Vishnu during the ceremony.
3. Technological Advancements: CBIC underscores its commitment to leveraging technology by remotely launching Electronic Data Interchange at Land Customs Stations in the North-Eastern Region. This move aims to boost Ease of Doing Business, promoting economic prosperity in the region.
Additionally, the introduction of Electronic Cash Ledger (ECL) for payment of import duties through Courier Mode is set to enhance convenience and efficiency in the Express Cargo Industry. Stakeholders can now make payments through multiple banks, streamlining the payment process.
4. Infrastructure Development: The week witnesses the virtual inauguration of CITRA Heights, a residential project in Delhi. Comprising 256 flats, recreational facilities, and essential amenities, this project meets the accommodation needs of CBIC officers in Delhi. The impending allotment process is urged to commence promptly.
5. International Collaboration: A delegation led by the Deputy Secretary, Department of Homeland Security, engages in fruitful discussions on mutual cooperation in combating narcotics smuggling. This dialogue emphasizes the importance of a secured Global Supply Chain.
6. Successful Operations: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Chennai, executes a meticulously planned operation, resulting in the seizure of 36 kgs of Methamphetamine worth around Rs. 180 crores. This success highlights the efficiency of extensive surveillance and collaborative efforts with RPF officials.
Conclusion: CBIC’s latest communication reflects a multifaceted approach, encapsulating fiscal achievements, cultural heritage preservation, technological strides, and collaborative efforts on the international front. The surge in revenue, coupled with successful operations and infrastructure development, positions CBIC as a dynamic and forward-looking entity in the realm of indirect taxes and customs.
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Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs
DO No. 10/News Letter/CH(IC)/2024 Dated: 04th March, 2024
Dear Colleague,
In the revenue figures for the month of February, there was a good increase of 12.5% compared to the same period last year, amounting to 21,68,337 crore. Notably, the average monthly gross collection for FY 2023-24 has surpassed the previous year’s figures, standing at Z1.67 lakh crore, indicating a consistent and upward trajectory in revenue generation. The revenue figures this year paint a picture of continued growth momentum and positive performance in terms of GST.
As you are aware, the Hon’ble Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs presided over the handing-over ceremony of the antiquities seized by Customs to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from North Block. The handing-over ceremony was held at seven different locations viz. Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneshwar, Delhi, Guwahati, Mumbai and Pune and 101 antiquities were handed over in total. CBIC is indebted to the Hon’ble Finance Minister for personally handing over an Idol of Lord Vishnu (Perumal) belonging to the late medieval period to the Director General, ASI, as part of the ceremony. Hon’ble Finance Minister also released the brochure ‘पुरावशेष के प्रहरी’, depicting select antiquities that were a part of the ceremony. The electronic version of the brochure is available on the CBIC website so that the Department’s commitment towards safeguarding our nation’s cultural heritage can be appreciated by the public. Antiquities not only hold immense historical, artistic, and societal value, but they are an embodiment of our history and culture as well. When they are stolen or smuggled across borders, we also lose a part of our historical legacy. Through rigorous efforts and timely interceptions, Indian Customs endeavours to prevent the illicit trafficking, smuggling, and theft of culturally significant artefacts across borders. Complemented with expertise of ASI, loss of many antiquities has been successfully prevented.
The Department’s continued focus on leveraging technology gained strength as the Hon’ble Finance Minister remotely launched the enablement of Electronic Data Interchange at Land Customs Stations of the North-Eastern Region. Launch of EDI at remote Land Customs Stations will boost Ease of Doing Business in the region and create greater avenues for economic prosperity.
Technology has revolutionized our lives in countless ways, and the digital revolution will now benefit the Express Cargo Industry. The introduction of Electronic Cash Ledger (ECL) for payment of Import duties for goods imported through Courier Mode is slated to bring convenience and efficiency for the industry. With the introduction of ECL last week, Express Industry can make payment through multiple banks as per convenience by internet banking and NEFIIRTGS from the existing one bank. The field should monitor the implementation process and be open to suggestions to further improve the experience of stakeholders.
Another highlight of last week was the launching of the much anticipated residential project of CBIC in Delhi. CITRA Heights or Customs and Indirect Taxes Residential Apartments at Dwarka, New Delhi were inaugurated virtually by the Hon’ble Finance Minister from North Block. This ambitious project of the department, which is situated in the heart of Delhi, will fulfil the accommodation needs of the officers of CBIC stationed in Delhi. One of the tallest and landmark buildings in the area, the residential complex comprises of 256 flats, a Guest House cum Transit Hostel, a canteen, three shops, two multipurpose halls, swimming pool and outdoor badminton courts for recreational activities. I would urge the Delhi Zone to keep track of the final formalities and begin the allotment as soon as possible.
Last week, a delegation led by Deputy Secretary, Department of Homeland Security, Ms. Kristie Canegallo discussed the areas of cooperation in smuggling of narcotics and other substances on the sidelines of the Senior Officials Homeland Security Dialogue. It was a fruitful dialogue with discussions on areas of mutual interest and emphasis on establishing a secured Global Supply Chain.
Interestingly, the very next day, the officers of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Chennai, in a meticulously planned operation, seized 36 kgs of Methamphetamine drug worth around Rs. 180 crores at Madurai Railway Station and Chennai Kondungaiyur dump yard. The seizure was a result of extensive surveillance carried out by the DRI with the help of RPF officials. Kudos to the team!
Till next week!
Yours sincerely,
(Sanjay Kumar Agarwal)
All Officers and Staff of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes 86 Customs.
