Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta Announces Rs 1,600 Crore GST Refunds for Traders Before Diwali

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced the release of nearly Rs 1,600 crore in pending GST refunds before Diwali. This move aims to allow traders to enjoy the festival with increased prosperity. The announcement followed a special meeting held on Sunday at her camp office in Civil Lines, attended by GST Commissioner Nandini Paliwal and Finance Secretary Shurveer Singh.

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Gupta criticised the previous AAP government for not addressing this long-standing issue. She instructed that the entire refund amount be distributed to traders before the festival. To expedite the process, the Delhi GST department has collaborated with IIT-Hyderabad to create an advanced IT module. This system uses data analytics and automation for faster verification and settlement of refund applications.

Advanced IT Module for Faster Refunds

The new IT module is designed to make the refund process more efficient and transparent. By leveraging data analytics and automation, it aims to ensure quicker settlements, providing timely relief to traders. Gupta emphasised that all pending, undisputed, and genuine refund applications must be processed according to rules on a priority basis.

Ensuring timely refunds is crucial for maintaining liquidity among traders. Gupta highlighted that this would reduce litigation costs and collectively boost Delhi's economic growth. The chief minister also stated that enhancing the 'ease of doing business' for traders remains a top priority for her administration.

Traders Welfare Board Initiatives

In line with these efforts, the government has set up a Traders Welfare Board. This board includes representatives from Delhi's trading community to ensure their concerns are genuinely addressed. Gupta assured that continuous efforts are being made to protect and promote traders' interests.

The chief minister believes that these initiatives will significantly benefit traders by providing them with necessary financial support during festive times. The advanced IT module developed in collaboration with IIT-Hyderabad is expected to streamline processes, making it easier for traders to receive their due refunds efficiently.

Gupta's focus on improving business conditions reflects her commitment to fostering a supportive environment for traders in Delhi. By prioritising timely refunds and establishing a welfare board, she aims to address longstanding issues faced by the trading community effectively.

With inputs from PTI