CBIC Chairman’s weekly newsletter dated 23rd December 2024 highlights pivotal developments. The 55th GST Council meeting in Jaisalmer emphasized simplifying the GST framework with decisions to facilitate trade, reduce litigation, and streamline compliance. Officers are urged to engage taxpayers to foster understanding and trust. The Board launched transformative initiatives on the CBIC website, including a revised Citizen’s Charter, an ‘Ease of Doing Business’ section for taxpayer suggestions, and CBIC Archives, enhancing transparency and taxpayer engagement. Notification No. 27/2024-GST increased Common Adjudicating Authorities (CAAs) for DGGI-issued SCNs from 10 to 23. Field officers must ensure smooth case reassignment to the new CAAs under close monitoring by (Pr.) Chief Commissioners.
On the enforcement side, CBIC officers at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport intercepted two gold smuggling cases, seizing 2.073 kg of gold worth ₹1.48 crore. Swift and meticulous action highlighted the vigilance against smuggling. These updates reflect CBIC’s commitment to creating a transparent, taxpayer-friendly ecosystem and strengthening enforcement efforts. Officers and stakeholders are encouraged to align with these initiatives for effective implementation.
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs
DO No. 52/News Letter/CMIC)/ 2024 Dated: 23rd December, 2024
Dear Colleague,
The 55th GST Council meeting, chaired by the Hon’ble Union Minister for Finance 86 Corporate Affairs, held last week in the picturesque and welcoming city of Jaisalmer, was marked by a shared commitment of the Centre and States towards simplifying the GST framework. Several critical issues were deliberated upon, resulting in key decisions aimed at facilitating trade, reducing litigation, and streamlining compliance processes. It is imperative for officers to familiarize themselves with the Council’s recommendations and proactively engage with taxpayers to effectively communicate these progressive measures. Such interactions will not only enhance taxpayers’ understanding of these initiatives but also strengthen the trust and collaboration between the administration and stakeholders in the GST ecosystem.
Last week, the Board held a virtual conference with the field formations of CBIC. Many important issues were discussed and I am hopeful that the salient points of the VC will be taken up by the field with utmost sincerity. Also, a series of transformative initiatives were launched on the CBIC website aimed at simplifying processes and reinforcing transparency. These include a revised Citizen’s Charter, a revamped Citizen’s Corner, an ‘Ease of Doing Business’ tab for taxpayer suggestions, and the CBIC Archives. Together, these initiatives mark a significant step towards creating a more taxpayer-friendly ecosystem aligned with the aspirations of citizens and businesses alike.
In a much needed step towards streamlining adjudication processes, Notification No. 27/2024-GST dated 25.11.2024 has expanded the number of Common Adjudicating Authorities (CAAs) for SCNs issued by DGGI from 10 to 23. To facilitate this transition, the original 10 CAAs (ADCs/JCs) are to identify the cases to be adjudicated by the newly appointed CAAs. Given the time-bound nature of adjudication, (Pr.) Chief Commissioners are urged to monitor this process closely so that the corrigenda are timely issued and the newly appointed CAAs commence adjudication of these cases.
On the anti-smuggling side, the officers at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, successfully intercepted two cases of gold smuggling, seizing 2.073 kilograms of gold valued at Rs. 1.48 crore. In one case, the gold was ingeniously concealed in the body cavity of a passenger, while in another, it was recovered from an airport staff member who had received it from a transit passenger. The swift action and meticulous investigation underscores the heightened vigil against smuggling activities.
Until next week!
Yours sincerely,
(Sanjay Kumar Agarwal)
All Officers and Staff of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes 86 Customs.
