The 165th anniversary of Income Tax Day was marked with a grand celebration today, presided over by Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman. The event, organized by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) in New Delhi, was graced by the presence of Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary, along with other distinguished officials, including Shri Sanjay Malhotra, Secretary, Revenue, and Shri Ravi Agrawal, Chairman, CBDT.
In her keynote address, Smt. Sitharaman praised the Income Tax Department for its remarkable achievements, including the highest-ever tax collection and the successful implementation of the faceless assessment and appeals regime. She also emphasized the importance of a fair and friendly approach to taxation, advocating for improved taxpayer experience and the use of simple, understandable language in tax notices.
A highlight of the event was the recognition of the artistic talents and dedication of several IRS officers. Smt. Sitharaman awarded IRS officers for their outstanding contributions beyond their regular duties. Among the honorees was Mr. Raghav Gupta, who was celebrated for his exceptional photography skills. His work, which captures the essence of the Department’s activities and initiatives, was lauded as an example of the diverse talents within the Income Tax Department.
The event also featured IRS officer and accomplished singer Mr. Anand Kumar, who served as the master of ceremonies. His performance added a touch of cultural flair to the occasion, showcasing the versatility of the Department’s officers.
Smt. Sitharaman also released a commemorative “My Stamp” to mark the 165th Income Tax Day, symbolizing the Department’s commitment to excellence and innovation in tax administration.
In her concluding remarks, the Union Finance Minister emphasized the importance of capacity building and the adoption of global best practices in tax administration, ensuring that the Department continues to evolve and meet the challenges of modern taxation.
The celebration of Income Tax Day served not only to acknowledge the Department’s achievements but also to highlight the diverse talents and dedication of its officers, reinforcing the Department’s role as a key pillar of India’s financial administration.
