New Delhi: The Income Tax sleuths have the image of being those people who are always ready to crack the whip. But, this year, the IT department has become a reason for smiles on faces of many taxpayers.
Several individuals have received a ‘Certificate of Appreciation’ from the department as small gesture to let the taxpayers know that the department is truly thankful to them for being responsible citizens of this country.
The certificate, signed by Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) chairman Sushil Chandra, mentions the taxpayer’s name and permanent account number (PAN) and acknowledges his/her contribution “towards building of this great Nation”.
Speaking to Newskarnataka.com, Al-Ain Holding LLC, Abu Dhabi Support Services Group Head Valerian Dalmaida stated that the move of the government of India and CBDT of Ministry of Finance of appreciating the tax-payers on Republic Day for paying taxes and being a part of nation building is a great feeling.
“I was overwhelmed to have opened by mailbox to see this mail from the IT department. It is always so reassuring to know that out good actions are being recognised and rewarded in this form. I took the privilege of letting all of my contacts in my e-mail list to know that the IT department has appreciated me for doing my bit towards nation building. I am elated because I could be a small drop in the big ocean of building India for next generation where all people will have quality of life, dignity, equality and fraternity. Jai Hind,” said Dalmaida, a proud taxpayer and truly proud Indian.
As per IT sources, the certificate is being sent to taxpayers who have cleared their entire liability and have filed their returns electronically in the prescribed file.
However, a majority of those who have received the certificate are those contributing Rs one lakh to Rs 10 lakhs towards taxes.
While this is the first-ever step by the government to pat the back of honest and punctual taxpayers, it is also being seen as a step to give the dreaded IT department a customer-friendly make-over. If the initiative will work or not, only time will tell!