The Government of India, through the Ministry of Finance and the Department of Revenue, continues its efforts to streamline operations within the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC). In a recent newsletter dated 29th April 2024, Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, addressing colleagues, emphasizes the importance of functional efficiencies and updates on key interceptions against smuggling activities.
Weekly newsletter from Chairman, CBIC dated 29/04/2024
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs
Sanjay Kumar Agarwal
Chairman
29th April, 2024
DO No. 18/News Letter/CH(IC)/ 2024
Dear Colleague,
As the mercury climbs relentlessly, the air feels heavy with the sweltering heat. But, in the tranquil early hours of the summer season, there lies a golden opportunity to invest in our health and well-being. The crisp morning air invigorates the senses and beckons us to stretch our bodies and minds, setting the tone for a day filled with vitality and vigour. So, rise early and take out time to engage in rejuvenating activities such as yoga or jogging or any other exercise that may interest you.
I have, in the past, highlighted the need to bring greater functional efficiencies in the divisions and ranges of CGST. In my Newsletter dated 28th August, 2023, I mentioned the Chennai Outer CGST Commissionerate experiment reorganization of the Range offices on functional basis. Recently, a presentation was made by the Commissioner, Chennai Outer CGST Commissionerate before the Board on the difficulties being faced in the current Range model which is organized on a territorial basis and their experience in reorganizing work in a few Divisions on a functional basis. Considering the benefits as well as challenges of the proposed system, the Board decided to explore the replication of the model on a pilot basis. The selected CGST Zones are advised to plan a reorganization of some of the city-based Divisions in their jurisdiction and submit their reports by 15th May to the Member (GST), CBIC. The DGGST will be coordinating with the Zones in this regard.
Continuing its vigil against Gold smuggling, the officers of the Headquarters and Mumbai Zonal Unit of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, intercepted a lady at Mumbai International Airport who was found to be carrying 25 Kg of Gold bars (of 1 Kg each) on her person concealed in customized inner jacket and knee caps. The Gold was valued at around Rs. 18.5 Crore. It is one heavy haul!
On the GST front, DGGI Jaipur Zonal Unit apprehended a mastermind in a case of fake Input Tax Credit (ITC). The mastermind had created and controlled about 50 non-existent firms involving fake ITC of about Rs. 215 Crores. Although he remained elusive for more than five months by frequently changing his location, the officers continued the surveillance and were ultimately able to catch him at his residence. I congratulate the officers for their follow-up action and hard work.
Until next week!
Yours sincerely,
(Sanjay Kumar Agarwal)
All Officers and Staff of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes 86 Customs.
