Pune zone CGST collects Rs 17k cr revenue

Pune: On the successful completion of two years of the launch of Goods and Services Tax (GST), the Pune zone of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) has collected more than Rs 17,000 crore as CGST revenue and Rs 2,800 crore of IGST (Integrated GST) revenue in 2018-19. The figures were announced during the Annual GST Day celebrations that were held at Pune head office on July 1. 

The function was attended by senior officers from the department, other senior officers, prominent members of trade and industry, various trade associations and tax practitioners. The function was inaugurated by Chief Commissioner CGST and Customs, Pune Zone Vasa Seshagiri Rao, Commissioner Rajiv Kapoor, Managing Director of Weikfield Products Corporation and Ex-President of MCCIA Mukesh Malhotra and Chancellor of Symbiosis International University SB Mujumdar.

Chief Commissioner Vasa Seshagiri Rao said, “The launch of GST on the intervening night of June 30 and July 1, 2017, was a historic event and it continues to contribute in the growth of the country’s economy.” He further highlighted the reforms in the pipeline. 

Rajiv Kapoor highlighted the proactive measures taken by the government to facilitate smooth implementation of the law and thus, minimise the compliance burden on the taxpayers. He underlined the significant role of GST in formalising the economy and steering the economy towards the motto of ‘One Nation, One Market and One Tax’. 
Guest Speaker Mukesh Malhotra acknowledged the role of CGST Officers in the smooth implementation of the law by minimising the chaos, given the scale of operation in a complex country like India. He highlighted certain pain points where the government should work. 

Mujumdar emphasised the need to tap the demographic dividend and the enormous young population. Giving an example of South Korea, Mujumdar highlighted the need to have quality education and more freedom for universities to work. He also wished that GST will lead to progress and prosperity of the country.