KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Jan 8: The Income Tax Department on Tuesday organised an extensive tax awareness programme at the Mini Secretariat, Bandipora, aimed at educating taxpayers about statutory compliances, upcoming legal reforms and the broader role of taxation in national development.
The programme was led by Joint Commissioner of Income Tax (OSD), Srinagar, Shakil Ahmad Ganie, a 2016-batch officer of the Indian Revenue Service (IRS). The event witnessed active participation from traders, contractors, professionals and government officials, reflecting growing interest in tax literacy and compliance across the district.
A detailed presentation was delivered by Abhineet Jhorar, Income Tax Officer, Srinagar, who underscored the importance of timely filing of returns, correct declaration of income and adherence to advance tax obligations. He also apprised the participants about significant reforms proposed under the forthcoming Income Tax Act, 2025, which is slated to come into force from April 1, 2026. Mr Jhorar explained that the new legislation aims to simplify tax procedures, improve transparency and make compliance more taxpayer-friendly.
Addressing the gathering, Joint Commissioner Shakil Ahmad Ganie highlighted the crucial role of income tax in nation-building, stating that tax revenues form the backbone of public welfare, infrastructure development and social security initiatives. He assured the participants that the Income Tax Department remains committed to resolving taxpayer grievances in a fair and time-bound manner. Emphasis was also laid on the timely payment of advance taxes and accurate reporting of income to avoid future disputes and penalties.
The programme was attended by a large number of local traders, including office bearers of the District Traders Association, Contractors Association, Private Diagnostic Centres Association, and other business and professional bodies. Participants were briefed on various provisions of the Income Tax Act, recent amendments and procedural aspects through presentations, followed by an interactive question-and-answer session that addressed practical concerns raised by taxpayers.
Senior officers from other government departments were also present on the occasion, including State Taxes Officer Sajad Ahmad and District Minerals Officer Ghulam Nabi Pintoo, adding to the inter-departmental coordination and outreach.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Ajay Sanghwan, Senior Inspector, who expressed gratitude to all participants and acknowledged the cooperation and facilitation extended by the district administration in organising the programme. Joint Commissioner Shakil Ahmad Ganie also extended special thanks to Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal, for the proactive support provided by the district administration, which ensured the smooth conduct of the event.
Deputy Commissioner Indu Kanwal, while addressing the gathering, impressed upon the participants to adopt sound tax planning and financial management practices in their professional and economic activities, terming tax awareness an essential component of responsible citizenship.
The programme concluded on an interactive note, with participants appreciating the department’s efforts to take tax awareness initiatives to the grassroots level.
