From Our Special Correspondent

Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, Sep 14: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has called upon Excise Department officers to make concerted efforts to surpass the revenue collection target of Rs 36,000 crore set for the department in the current year. He emphasized that the target is "very realistic" and is based on the department's past performance.

Siddaramaiah made these remarks while reviewing the performance of the Excise Department with senior government officials at Vidhana Soudha on Thursday.

The chief minister expressed his warm appreciation for the Excise and Commercial Taxes Department, highlighting that the department's revenue mobilization rate of 19.2% for the year is a record for the entire country. He stressed the need to strictly combat tax evasion, pilferage, and other fraudulent activities, while also streamlining the collection machinery for improved performance.

Siddaramaiah pointed out that the national average for tax collection by states stands at 15%, whereas Karnataka has achieved an impressive 19.2%. The state contributes 9.4% to the country's total tax mobilization.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister issued a directive to Excise Department officials, urging them to take decisive action to halt the illicit manufacture of liquor and the illegal transportation of liquor from neighboring Goa. He emphasized the importance of surpassing the revenue target and called for heightened efforts by check-posts and vigilance squads in border districts. He suggested the utilization of Home Guards to enhance their capabilities.

During the review meeting, Siddaramaiah also assessed the performance of the Stamps and Registration Department, as well as the Mining and Geology Departments. He emphasized that higher revenue collection would enable the government to carry out its welfare programs and developmental initiatives.