Assam aims to widen tax net, boost voluntary compliance ahead of July budget

Assam Finance Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah held a review meeting of the Commissionerate of Taxes on Monday, two weeks before he presents his first state budget in the Assembly. The session at Kar Bhawan in Guwahati focused on widening the state's tax base and using technology to improve compliance, according to a statement from the minister's office.

Mallabaruah noted Assam's taxpayer-to-population ratio remains below the national average. He directed officials to bring more eligible individuals and entities into the tax net without adding burden on those already filing returns. The minister called for targeted efforts to improve voluntary compliance and broaden coverage.

The Commissioner of Taxes presented an overview of revenue trends, enforcement mechanisms, and ongoing initiatives during the meeting. Senior officers at Kar Bhawan attended in person; field-level officials from across the state joined virtually.

Mallabaruah instructed the department to step up data-driven analysis to identify gaps in compliance and to strengthen monitoring systems to prevent revenue leakages. He reviewed measures to curb fraudulent practices and improve transparency. The minister also told officials to facilitate compliant businesses while stepping up oversight on sectors showing unusual reporting patterns.