Introduction: The Weekly Newsletter from the Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) dated 08/04/2024 reflects on the accomplishments of the past financial year and sets forth objectives for the future. It outlines key initiatives, successful operations, and remarkable achievements within the department.
Detailed Analysis:
1. Legacy Adjudication Cases: The Chairman emphasizes the importance of resolving pending legacy adjudication cases promptly. This directive underscores the commitment to clearing longstanding issues and ensuring efficiency within the department.
2. Successful Joint Operation: Highlighting a joint operation by DRI, Customs Trichy Zone, and the Indian Coast Guard, the newsletter applauds the interception of a smuggling attempt. The operation resulted in the retrieval of smuggled gold, showcasing the vigilance and effectiveness of collaborative efforts.
3. Crackdown on GST Fraud: The newsletter discusses the proactive measures taken by CGST Raipur to combat GST fraud. Through meticulous analysis and swift action, officers identified and apprehended individuals involved in a fraudulent scheme, preventing significant revenue loss to the exchequer.
4. Recognition of Achievement: The newsletter celebrates the remarkable achievement of Shri Yogesh Kathunia, a Tax Assistant in Delhi CGST Zone, who secured Silver medals at the Asian Paralympic Games 2023 and the World Championship in Paris 2023. His dedication and success serve as an inspiration to colleagues and aspiring athletes alike.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Weekly Newsletter from the CBIC Chairman serves as a comprehensive update on recent developments and notable accomplishments within the department. It underscores the commitment to efficiency, integrity, and excellence in the realm of indirect taxes and customs. The newsletter not only informs but also inspires, highlighting the dedication and achievements of individuals within the CBIC community.
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Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
08th April, 2024
DO No. 15/News Letter/CH(IC)/2024
Dear Colleague,
As the curtains closed on the financial year, we rejoiced on the fruits of our collective efforts. While we revel in the success of the past, it is imperative that we keep ourselves focused towards the tasks that lie ahead. I would like to draw your attention towards the pending legacy adjudication cases. Now is the opportune moment to clean the slate, and resolve these long standing issues in an expeditious manner. The Board has been highlighting the need to liquidate the legacy matters every now and then. I expect the Zones to diligently address the pendency at their end.
The joint operation of DRI, Customs Trichy Zone and Indian Coast Guard caught my attention. On the basis of specific intelligence that foreign origin gold is being smuggled into India through the Vedhalai coast in Ramnathapuram District by a gang using fishing boats, surveillance was mounted over the movement of suspected fishing boats in the area. One identified suspect boat was intercepted after a dramatic chase and in a bid to escape, the persons onboard threw the smuggled consignment in the sea. The smuggled gold was retrieved after an extensive search operation at the sea bed. The DRI officers have seized crude gold bars of different sizes weighing 4.9 Kg in total and valued at Rs 3.43 Crores. The persons onboard the country boat have been apprehended. The officers deserve a pat on their back!
On the GST front, the officers of Fake Invoice Cell of CGST Raipur identified a bunch of suspicious firms which appeared to be operating from fake addresses. Deeper data analysis revealed that they were passing on fake tax credit without having inward supplies or having supplies from cancelled or suspended taxpayers. Interestingly, 13 firms which were identified were filing returns from a single IP address. A search operation at the said location led to recovery of various Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, photographs, signed Cheque books, etc. of these firms. The mastermind behind the racket has been apprehended due to quick action by the officers who has admitted to creation of fictitious firms for the purpose of passing on fake ITC. In all, ITC amounting to Rs. 114.15 Crores has been availed and passed on fraudulently to defraud the Exchequer. Compliments to the team!
One of our officers, Shri Yogesh Kathunia, posted as Tax Assistant in Delhi CGST Zone, has made us proud. He won the Silver medal at the Asian Paralympic Games, 2023, and the Silver Medal at World Championship in Paris, 2023, in the Discus Throw event. Not only is he an achiever himself, he is also supporting young talents by training them. The CBIC wishes you all the best for the upcoming Paralympics in Paris. May it be your Golden throw in Paris!
I am reminded of the following lines by the renowned Hindi poet, Harivansh Rai Bachchan:
These lines beautifully encapsulate the essence of perseverance and determination, reminding us that success is attainable for those who dare to sail against the currents and remain persist in their efforts. Yogesh brings these lines to life!
Until next week!
Yours sincerely,
(Sanjay Kumar Agarwal)
All Officers and Staff of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs.
