Biometric-based Aadhaar Authentication Through GST Seva Kendras Approved for Andhra Pradesh

New Delhi: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced on Thursday that biometric-based Aadhaar authentication through GST Seva Kendras has been approved for the state of Andhra Pradesh. She made the announcement while addressing tax officers at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of GST Bhavan in Tirupati.

Sitharaman's Virtual Address

In her virtual address, Sitharaman said that the approval for biometric-based Aadhaar authentication through GST Seva Kendras has been given for Andhra Pradesh. She also lauded the efforts of the Tirupati Commissionerate, which collected GST revenue of Rs 8,264 crore last year and Rs 5,019 crore till September.

Growth in GST Collections

The Commissionerate has seen significant growth in the past few years, posting a growth of about 300% in the GST regime. The major contributors to this growth are the manufacture of passenger vehicles, cement, and automotive batteries.

Revenue Growth and Law Enforcement

Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra emphasized the need for revenue growth and law enforcement to work hand-in-hand. He urged all officers to expedite all matters related to prosecution and bring them to a logical conclusion in a timely manner. Malhotra also exhorted the officers to continue focusing on the grievance redressal mechanism for taxpayers.

Curbing Tax Evasion

Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) Chairman Sanjay Agarwal said the robust GST and customs revenues are a testament to their commitment to curbing tax evasion and plugging revenue leakages, particularly by detecting fake input tax credit (ITC).

New Office Building

The new office building of the Tirupati CGST Commissionerate will be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 36.11 crore by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) and is expected to be completed within 18 months. The building will enhance the overall taxpayer experience and facilitate economic activities in the region.

The Union Finance Minister's announcement of Aadhaar-based authentication through GST Seva Kendras in Andhra Pradesh is a significant step towards facilitating taxpayers and improving tax compliance. The new GST Bhavan in Tirupati will provide a modern and efficient workspace for tax officials and enhance the overall taxpayer experience.