Ranchi: A high-level review meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, was held on Monday at the Jharkhand Secretariat with officials from the Finance and Commercial Taxes Departments. During the meeting, a detailed review was conducted regarding the state’s financial status, revenue collection, the effective implementation of budget provisions, and the progress of various schemes and development works being executed by different departments. Based on an analysis of data from various financial years presented during the meeting, it emerged that Jharkhand’s mining revenue position is stronger compared to its neighboring states, Odisha and Chhattisgarh. Officials informed the Chief Minister that a significant increase in revenue collection has been recorded in the state, attributed to the systematic management of mineral resources, a transparent policy framework, and an effective monitoring mechanism.
Expressing satisfaction over this achievement, Chief Minister Hemant Soren directed that necessary steps be taken to sustain this positive trend and further strengthen it. He placed special emphasis on ensuring transparency in the mining sector, establishing strict controls over illegal mining, and encouraging the adoption of modern technologies. During the review of the Finance Department, various financial matters—including budget estimates, revenue targets, establishment expenditure, capital receipts, and grants-in-aid received from the Government of India—were discussed in detail. A point-by-point review of the state’s overall income and expenditure position was conducted, with emphasis placed on the effective management and judicious utilization of financial resources. During the review session, detailed information was presented regarding the progress of schemes and programs being implemented by the department. The status of scheme implementation, the pace of expenditure, target achievement, and potential challenges were also deliberated upon in depth.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister emphasized the extensive use of biometric systems to ensure transparency and accountability in administrative functions. He directed that biometric systems be strictly implemented across all departments for processes related to attendance and workflow management, thereby ensuring accountability and enhancing transparency in administrative operations.
Chief Minister Soren further directed officials to ensure that there is absolutely no lack of coordination in the implementation of schemes, and that all departments work with a unified vision in alignment with their predetermined targets. He stated that this would not only accelerate the implementation of various schemes but also ensure a more efficient utilization of resources.
During the review meeting of the Commercial Taxes Department, a comprehensive assessment was conducted regarding the current status of tax collection in the state, GST compliance, measures for revenue growth, and departmental operational procedures. An analysis of revenue figures derived from various tax heads was presented, and challenges associated with tax collection were discussed in detail. Deliberations were also held on critical issues pertaining to the assessment, collection, monitoring, and enforcement of GST, VAT, Professional Tax, and other state-level taxes. Special emphasis was placed on enhancing compliance among taxpayers, exercising effective control over tax evasion, and strengthening the monitoring system through the use of technological tools. Furthermore, directives were issued to undertake necessary corrective measures to render departmental processes more transparent, effective, and accountable.
During the review, particular stress was laid on paying special attention to aspects related to tax assessment, collection, monitoring, and enforcement. Additionally, emphasis was placed on encouraging voluntary compliance among taxpayers and promoting the utilization of modern technological tools to effectively curb tax evasion.
