Important News - 2025-03-26
26 March 2025
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Politics (10)
K.J. George Denies ₹15,000-Crore Smart Meter Scam Allegations in Karnataka
Karnataka Energy Minister K.J. George has strongly refuted allegations of a ₹15,000-crore scam related to smart meters, raised by BJP leader C.N. Ashwath Narayan. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, George clarified that the tender for smart meters was conducted in compliance with the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements Act (KTTP Act). He explained that the tender was called under the KW 4 category, which does not permit joint ventures, and emphasized that the process involved system integrators who would later collaborate with Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Providers (AMISP) and meter manufacturers. George also addressed concerns about the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) guidelines, stating that while prepaid smart meters are mandatory for temporary connections, new permanent connections can opt for either prepaid or postpaid smart meters. Opposition leader V. Sunil Kumar, however, dismissed George’s clarifications, insisting that the scam allegations remain valid.
Congress Forms Committee to Address Delimitation Concerns
The Indian National Congress has decided to form an internal committee to develop its stance on the upcoming delimitation exercise. Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal emphasized the need for a multi-dimensional approach to address the complexities of delimitation, particularly concerns about reduced parliamentary representation for certain states. Venugopal called for the government to issue a detailed statement to clarify its position and dispel rumors. The Congress has opposed using population as the sole criterion for delimitation, arguing that both southern and northern states could be adversely affected. The party aims to adopt a more nuanced position than its ally, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), especially given its vulnerable position in Hindi-speaking states, which are expected to benefit from the exercise. Congress leaders, including Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, participated in a Joint Action Committee meeting organized by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. Congress General Secretary (Communications) Jairam Ramesh highlighted that delimitation cannot proceed without a fresh Census, citing the 2002 Constitutional amendment that postponed delimitation until after the first Census post-2026. Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari noted that even northern states like Punjab and Haryana could lose proportional representation in the Lok Sabha post-delimitation. The exercise is expected to benefit middle Indian states that have lagged in population control measures.
J&K L-G Administration Invokes Article 311 to Dismiss Employees in NDPS Cases
On March 26, 2025, the Lieutenant Governor’s administration in Jammu and Kashmir invoked Article 311 of the Indian Constitution to dismiss four government employees allegedly involved in cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This marks the first time Article 311 has been used in NDPS cases in the Union Territory. The dismissed employees, identified as Abdul Rashid Bhat, Dilbag Singh, Gulzar Ahmed, Noor Mohammad Sheikh, and Gulzar Ahmad Dar, were found to have violated Rule 3 of the J&K Employees Conduct Rules, 1971, and engaged in activities detrimental to public welfare. Earlier, the administration had terminated 63 employees for alleged anti-national activities, including children of separatists and militants. The J&K Police, under the L-G administration, has intensified efforts against narcotics, registering 3,190 cases and arresting 4,536 individuals in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, 463 individuals were detained under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. Authorities suspect a significant link between narcotics and terrorism in the region, with 39 persons detained in 19 narco-terror cases during the same period. Properties, including residential houses, land, and vehicles of the accused, have been attached as part of the crackdown.
IG Asra Garg Directs Cuddalore Police to Monitor History-Sheeters and Curb Smuggling
Inspector General of Police (North Zone) Asra Garg has directed police officers in Cuddalore district to closely monitor history-sheeters to prevent potential law and order issues. During a review meeting on law and order at the District Police Office on Tuesday, Mr. Garg emphasized the need for jurisdictional police to track the movements of history-sheeters and take necessary action. He also instructed the police to intensify efforts against the smuggling of ganja, banned gutkha, and tobacco products. Additionally, Mr. Garg directed the police to take stringent action against repeat offenders and history-sheeters under the Goondas Act, if required. He further highlighted the need to increase vigilance at check-posts to curb the smuggling of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) from Puducherry into Cuddalore district. The meeting, attended by Deputy Inspector General of Police (Villupuram Range) Disha Mittal and Superintendent of Police S. Jeyakumar, focused on strengthening enforcement and reviewing case progress in the district.
Jarkiholi-Kumaraswamy Meeting Sparks Speculation Over Honey-Trapping Allegations
A recent meeting in Delhi between Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi and JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy has sparked speculation amid ongoing honey-trapping allegations in Karnataka politics. Jarkiholi was in Delhi to secure environmental clearance for the proposed Shiradi Ghat tunnel project. During their meeting at Kumaraswamy’s office in Parliament House, the two leaders discussed the alleged use of honey-trapping as a tool to blackmail or tarnish the image of political rivals. Both leaders have personal connections to such incidents; Jarkiholi’s brother, former Water Resources Minister Ramesh Jarkiholi, resigned in 2021 after a video scandal, while Kumaraswamy’s nephew, Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna, was arrested in 2024 over rape charges following leaked videos. The meeting also included a discussion with former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda. Despite their political differences, Jarkiholi and Kumaraswamy are known to maintain a close personal relationship outside politics.
BJP Raises Hazaribagh Stone Pelting Issue in Jharkhand Assembly
On March 26, 2025, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators raised the issue of stone pelting during a religious procession in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, in the state assembly. The incident occurred near Jama Masjid Chowk on March 25, 2025, during a Mangla procession as part of Ram Navami celebrations. BJP MLAs accused the Jharkhand government of being 'anti-Hindu' and demanded strict action against anti-social elements. Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi criticized the Soren government for alleged appeasement politics, claiming it emboldened such incidents. He urged the government to use CCTV and drone cameras during religious processions. Congress leader Neha Shilpi Tirkey accused the BJP of inciting communal discord to impose President’s rule. Hazaribagh BJP MLA Pradeep Prasad called the incident a 'well-planned attack' and questioned the police’s role. Chief Minister Hemant Soren assured the assembly that the government was monitoring anti-social elements to maintain communal harmony. Police resorted to firing in the air to control the situation, with no casualties reported.
Karnataka Home Minister Refers Honey-Trap Allegations to State Police Chief for Investigation
Home Minister G. Parameshwara has referred a memorandum submitted by Cooperative Minister K.N. Rajanna to the Director General & Inspector General of Police (DG&IGP) of Karnataka, Alok Mohan, for further action on allegations of a honey-trap ring. The memorandum seeks a high-level investigation into claims that 48 individuals, including legislators, central leaders, and judges, were targeted by an organized honey-trap operation. The issue was raised in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly by BJP senior leader Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, prompting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Home Minister Parameshwara to promise a thorough probe. However, Rajanna has yet to file a formal police complaint, which is necessary to register an FIR. Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader emphasized that it is the government's responsibility to act on the assurances made in the House, while refraining from directing the government on the matter. Parameshwara clarified that suo motu action was not initiated as the issue arose in the Assembly, making it the property of the House under the Speaker's custodianship.
Global Union Urges Kerala to Address ASHA Workers' Demands for Fair Wages and Benefits
The Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) in Kerala have been leading an agitation demanding fair remuneration and retirement benefits, which has gained significant support and evolved into a broader women’s rights movement. Kate Lappin, the Asia Pacific Regional Secretary of Public Services International (PSI), a global union federation representing over 30 million public service workers, has written to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, urging the state government to engage with ASHA union leaders to address their concerns. Lappin emphasized the importance of recognizing ASHA workers as public health workers and providing them with living wages, respect, and recognition. She highlighted that the International Labour Organisation’s Committee of Experts on Application of Conventions (CEACR) had affirmed in its 2022 report that community health workers are entitled to fundamental rights and principles at work. Lappin also pointed out that while ASHAs in India are denied these rights, similar workers in Pakistan, known as Lady Health Workers, have secured recognition as public health workers with minimum wages and benefits. She urged the Kerala government to take immediate steps to ensure fair, dignified, and secure working conditions for ASHAs, including a monthly honorarium of ₹21,000 and retirement benefits of ₹5 lakh for those retiring at 62 years. Lappin called on Kerala to lead by example in this fundamental labor rights struggle, setting a precedent for other Indian states to follow.
Congress Opposes Brewery in Water-Scarce Elapully Panchayat
T. Siddique, the working president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) and MLA, stated on Wednesday that the Congress party would not allow the establishment of a brewery in Elapully panchayat, where residents are already facing severe water scarcity. He warned that protests against the brewery would intensify if the government did not abandon its plans to produce liquor, which would further exacerbate the drinking water crisis. Siddique accused the government of inviting Oasis Commercial, a company known for exploiting water resources in northern regions, with the intention of receiving kickbacks. He demanded the release of the detailed project report for the proposed liquor plant. Siddique made these remarks while inaugurating the valedictory session of a 100-hour satyagraha organized by Karshaka Congress State president Majoosh Mathew at Anjuvilakku junction. The event was presided over by Karshaka Congress vice-president G. Sivarajan, with several other leaders, including KPCC general secretary C. Chandran and Karshaka Congress district president B. Iqbal, in attendance.
CPI(M) Launches Campaign Against Alleged Misuse of ED by BJP
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] has announced a political and legal campaign against the alleged misuse of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Central government for political gains. CPI(M) State secretary M.V. Govindan accused the ED of giving a clean chit to BJP leaders in the 2021 Kodakara hawala case, despite evidence suggesting that ₹3.36 crore looted from a car in Thrissur was linked to unaccounted election spending by the BJP. Govindan criticized the ED for not conducting a proper investigation and for failing to question key individuals, such as T. Satheesh, the then BJP Thrissur office secretary. He alleged that the ED’s actions were aimed at protecting top BJP leaders, including K. Surendran, from prosecution. The CPI(M) plans to expose the ED’s alleged political bias and misuse through a grassroots campaign and legal action, collaborating with other secular democratic parties at the national level.
Heritage (1)
Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden Boosts Kashmir’s Tourism Sector
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, officially opened by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has become a major attraction for tourists, showcasing 1.5 million blooming tulips across 74 varieties. Spread over 20 acres at an altitude of 5,600 feet, the garden, with the Zabarwan Hills as its backdrop, was established in 2008 by former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad. The garden, Asia’s largest of its kind, has seen a significant increase in footfall, with 4.65 lakh visitors in 2024 compared to 3.65 lakh in 2023. The tulip bloom, lasting a few weeks from mid-March, has become a symbol of Kashmir’s flourishing tourism sector. Nasir Aslam Wani, advisor to the Chief Minister, emphasized the need to further strengthen tourism by expanding initiatives like almond and cherry blossom zones. J&K Minister Javed Dar expressed optimism about breaking past tourism records and improving infrastructure to create more tourist destinations.
Ranks & Reports (1)
Telangana Ranks Third in Deforestation for Developmental Projects (2014-2024)
Telangana has recorded the third highest deforestation in India and the highest among Southern States between 2014 and 2024, losing 11,422.47 hectares of forest land for developmental projects. This was revealed by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, in response to a question in Parliament. The data was provided in response to a query by Raja Ram Singh Kushwaha, an MP from the Communist Party of India (Marxist–Leninist) Liberation, who sought details on forest land diversions and the scientific veracity of the India State of Forest Report, 2023. Yadav stated that a total of 1,73,396.87 hectares of forest area was approved for non-forestry purposes, including infrastructure projects, under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, during this period. Telangana’s deforestation accounts for about 7% of the total, excluding forest land distributed for ‘podu’ cultivation by the previous BRS government. Madhya Pradesh topped the list with 38,553 hectares diverted, followed by Odisha with 24,459 hectares. In Telangana, 3,168.13 hectares were diverted for the now-defunct Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, spread across eight forest divisions and wildlife sanctuaries. Other projects like Mission Bhagiratha, road infrastructure, and optical fibre lines also received forest clearances.
Schemes (6)
Andhra Pradesh Launches ‘Zero Poverty - P4 Policy’ to Eradicate Poverty by 2047
The Government of Andhra Pradesh is set to launch its ambitious flagship programme, ‘Zero Poverty - P4 Policy’, on March 30, 2024, coinciding with Ugadi, the Telugu New Year. This initiative is part of the broader Swarna Andhra-2047 vision, which aims to eradicate poverty in the state by 2047. The ‘P4’ stands for ‘Public, Private, People Partnership’, and it is one of the ten principles of Swarna Andhra-2047. The policy focuses on empowering families by providing house sites, constructing houses, ensuring sanitation facilities, 100% tap water connections, LPG connections, reliable power supply with incentives for rooftop solar installations, high-speed Internet access, and promoting entrepreneurship. Economically weaker families, referred to as ‘Bangaru Kutumbam’ (golden families), will be supported by well-off contributors, known as ‘Margadarsis’ (guides). The initiative encourages High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) and the Telugu diaspora to contribute towards bridging the economic divide. The State government will identify the beneficiaries through analytics and surveys, and the ‘Margadarsis’ can select families to support. The government’s role is limited to policy framing, with financial transactions facilitated through the P4 platform. A ‘P4 Society’ will be constituted at various levels to drive the initiative, involving public representatives, government officers, industry leaders, philanthropists, CSR heads, civil society, and social impact organizations. The government expects this initiative to foster inclusive economic growth and set a precedent for poverty alleviation models in India.
Kerala University’s 2025-26 Budget Focuses on Combating Drug Abuse and Enhancing Campus Security
Kerala University has unveiled its Budget for the 2025-26 financial year, focusing on combating drug abuse and promoting awareness against alcoholism, violence, and social injustices. Starting from the next academic year, students will be required to sign undertakings against drug abuse during admissions at university centres and affiliated colleges. Disciplinary actions will be enforced against students found guilty of misconduct. The budget includes an allocation of ₹40 lakh for procuring AI-enabled drones and autonomous security bots to enhance campus surveillance and detect suspicious activities. Additionally, ‘Souhrida’ (friendship) clubs will be established across all affiliated colleges to counter drug abuse, with a directorate set up at the university to coordinate these activities. Awards will be presented to campuses excelling in drug-free initiatives, with ₹50 lakh allocated for this purpose. The budget, presented by Syndicate subcommittee on finance convener G. Muralidharan, anticipates revenue and expenditure of ₹844.42 crore. The university will also conduct a comprehensive study on the environmental, social, and economic impacts of offshore mining along the Kerala coast. Furthermore, ₹50 lakh has been earmarked for implementing on-screen valuation for all courses, including four-year undergraduate programmes, with plans to expand scanning centres at Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, and Pandalam. To boost research quality, the university will introduce a research slab system with fixed time frames of three and five years, offering monthly fellowships of ₹25,000 and ₹15,000, respectively.
Governor Advocates Entrepreneurial Education and Anti-Drug Initiatives in Kerala Universities
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar addressed a special session of the Kerala University Senate on Wednesday, coinciding with the presentation of the 2025-26 fiscal budget. During his speech, he emphasized the need to move away from the colonial legacy in the education system, which he believes focuses on producing job seekers rather than job creators. He advocated for fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among students, aligning with the National Education Policy's focus on educational reforms and innovation. The Governor also highlighted the importance of combating drug abuse among youth, suggesting the observance of an Anti-Drug Day every month to raise awareness. This visit followed a similar session at Calicut University, where he reiterated the need for self-reliance and entrepreneurship in higher education.
Telangana CM Proposes Comprehensive Revamp of Education Sector
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy of Telangana emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of the education sector, describing its current state as alarming. Speaking in the Legislative Council on Wednesday, he urged members to submit constructive suggestions in writing to help formulate a robust education policy. The government has already recruited 10,000 teachers and facilitated the transfer of 36,000 teachers without controversy. Additionally, ₹1.08 lakh is being spent daily on scholar students, and 98,000 residential schools are operational. Reddy highlighted the establishment of the Skills University, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi and named 'Young India,' and proposed a Sports University and a Mining University in Kothagudem. A new sports policy is set to be released soon, and 100 advanced technology centers are being developed across Assembly constituencies by updating outdated ITI syllabi. Addressing criticism from BRS MLC K. Kavitha regarding delayed fee reimbursements, Reddy clarified that funds are being disbursed in phases. He also cited the National Achievement Survey 2021, which revealed that a majority of primary school students in Telangana lack proficiency in core subjects, and a decline of 6.50 lakh students in government schools, underscoring the need for reform.
Kerala to Declare ‘Waste-Free’ Local Bodies on March 30 Under Malinya Mukhtham Navakeralam Campaign
The declaration of ‘completely garbage-free’ local self-government bodies will take place across Kerala on March 30, 2024, as part of the Malinya Mukhtham Navakeralam campaign. This initiative was launched on October 2, 2023, Gandhi Jayanti Day, and aims to achieve a totally clean Kerala by March 30, 2025, coinciding with International Zero Waste Day. Local Self Governments Minister M.B. Rajesh announced that local bodies meeting the State government’s guidelines will declare themselves ‘waste-free’ by March 30. So far, 8,337 garbage-free wards, 126 grama panchayats, and 13 municipalities have been declared waste-free. The remaining local bodies are in the final stages of achieving the target, with 50 still lagging behind. District-level announcements are scheduled by April 5, 2024, and will include status reports, award distributions, best practice presentations, and future activity planning. Local bodies achieving 80% progress in each of the 13 government-set criteria are declared ‘waste-free’.
Orissa High Court Issues Notice on APAAR ID Mandate Challenge in Schools
The Orissa High Court issued a notice on March 26, 2025, in response to a petition challenging the mandatory implementation of the Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) ID for school students. The petition, filed by Rohit Anand Das, a parent and lawyer, argued that the consent forms for APAAR did not clearly state that enrolment was voluntary, despite the Union Ministry of Education (MoE) stating on its website that it is not mandatory. The petition also highlighted concerns about privacy, as APAAR IDs are linked to Aadhaar, potentially violating the Supreme Court’s 2017 judgment on the right to privacy. The Odisha government’s circular to implement APAAR did not mention the voluntary nature of the consent, which contradicts the MoE’s position. The petition seeks a clear opt-out option in consent forms and raises concerns about the potential misuse of student data and the lack of privacy safeguards in the APAAR system.
Festivals (1)
Andhra Pradesh Government Allocates Rs. 5 Crore for Grand Ugadi Celebrations on March 30, 2025
The Andhra Pradesh government is preparing for the grand celebration of the Sri Viswavasu Nama Ugadi festival on March 30, 2025. The festivities will be held at the State level across all districts, as well as at key locations such as the A.P. Bhavan in New Delhi, the A.P. Secretariat in Velagapudi, and the Amarajeevi Potti Sriramulu Memorial Building in Chennai. The celebrations will include traditional events like Panchanga Sravanam (annual astrological reading), felicitation of eminent personalities from art and culture, Kavi Sammelanam (poets' meet), and cultural programs. The government has sanctioned Rs. 5 crore for the organization of these events, ensuring a grand and inclusive celebration.
Miscellaneous (5)
Leopard Sighting in Chalakudy Town Prompts Emergency Measures
On Tuesday night, a leopard was spotted near a residential area in Chalakudy town, causing widespread panic among the residents. The incident was captured on a CCTV camera installed at a house. In response, an emergency municipality council meeting was convened to address the situation. Chalakudy MLA Saneesh Kumar Joseph emphasized the need for urgent measures to locate the animal, which posed a significant threat to public safety. He urged the Forest Department to act swiftly. Chalakudy Forest Division DFO M. Venkateswaran confirmed that immediate steps, including setting up traps, were being taken to capture the leopard. The meeting also decided to inspect all CCTV cameras across the municipality’s wards and deploy a rapid response team (RRT) to monitor the area. The meeting was chaired by municipality chairman Shibu Valappan.
NLSIU Announces NLSAT 2024 for Law and Public Policy Programmes
The National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru, has announced the National Law School Admission Test (NLSAT) for admissions to various law courses. The NLSAT will be conducted on April 27, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. across specified centers in India. The application deadline is March 30, 2024, until 11:59 p.m. Interested candidates can apply through the official website, nlsatadmissions.nls.ac.in. The courses offered include the New NLS BA (Hons), 3-year LLB (Hons), 2-year Master’s programme in Public Policy, PhD (Law), and PhD (Social Sciences, Humanities, and Public Policy). Additionally, international students are invited to apply for the academic year 2025-26 for programs such as the 5-year BA LLB (Hons), 3-year LLB (Hons), 1-year LLM, 2-year Master’s programme in Public Policy, and Ph.D. programmes. International applicants can submit their applications via internationaadmissions.nls.ac.in.
Three-Member Team Investigates Hyderabad Pastor’s Suspicious Death
The East Godavari police have handed over the body of Hyderabad-based pastor Pagadala Praveen Kumar (45) to his family after completing the post-mortem examination at the Government General Hospital in Rajamahendravaram. Praveen Kumar, who was traveling from Hyderabad to Rajamahendravaram on a two-wheeler to attend a religious event, died on March 24 when his bike slipped on the highway near Konthamuru, causing him to crash into nearby fields. The police have registered the case as a suspicious death and formed a three-member special investigation team led by Kovvur DSP Deva Kumar. CCTV footage of the accident has been released by SP D. Narasimha Kishore, who stated that the inquest was completed by the Executive Magistrate, and evidence has been sent to the Regional Forensic Science Laboratory in Vijayawada. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Home Minister V. Anitha have directed the police to conduct a detailed inquiry into the incident.
‘Unlock Your Future’ Seminar Highlights Career Guidance and Competitive Exam Strategies
The Hindu Future India Club, in collaboration with KP’s 21st Century IAS Academy, organized a career guidance seminar titled ‘Unlock Your Future’ at Aurora Degree & PG College, Chikkadpally, on Wednesday. The event aimed to provide students with insights into excelling in competitive examinations and making informed career decisions. Bhavani Shankar, Director of the IAS academy, led the session and emphasized the importance of dedicated preparation, consistency, and building a strong foundation in basic concepts. He highlighted the relevance of understanding previous years’ question papers and staying updated with current affairs through newspapers. Principal Suhasini of Aurora Degree & PG College also addressed the students, stressing the significance of hard work, perseverance, and career planning. The seminar concluded with an invitation for other colleges to organize similar events by contacting Jayshankar Singh at 9885320089.
NEXUS Edge 2k25 Conclave at Bengaluru City University Focuses on Modernizing Management Education
Bengaluru City University (BCU) School of Management Studies (BCUSMS), in collaboration with the International Institute of Business Studies, successfully organized the NEXUS Edge 2k25 conclave on Tuesday. The event, inaugurated by Vice Chancellor Lingaraja Gandhi, attracted over 2,500 students, industry experts, and academicians. Prof. Gandhi highlighted the need to align management education with the rapidly changing demands of the business world, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy and technological expertise. Nirmala M., Chairperson of BCUSMS, also addressed the conclave, stressing the significance of interdisciplinary learning and the integration of technology into business education. The conclave served as a platform for knowledge exchange, empowering students to navigate the evolving business landscape effectively.
Economy (1)
PAC Recommends GST 2.0 to Simplify Compliance and Streamline Procedures
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has recommended a comprehensive review of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework to simplify compliance and streamline procedures. In its 19th report presented to Parliament on March 26, 2025, the PAC suggested consolidating GST return forms, reducing filing frequency, and adopting a tiered compliance approach to ease the burden on smaller businesses. The committee also emphasized the need for a more user-friendly GST portal, clear guidance for taxpayers, and a transparent refund system with dedicated grievance redressal mechanisms. Additionally, the PAC called for leveraging data analytics and artificial intelligence for accurate revenue projections and real-time tracking of non-compliant taxpayers. The report highlighted the importance of expediting the implementation of a fully faceless GST collection system and simplifying documentation for exporters. The PAC also recommended streamlining the provisional calculation and release of compensation payable to states, ensuring timely and efficient processes.
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