Honest taxpayers are silent architects of India’s progress: Telangana Governor
Hyderabad, July 24 (TNT): Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Friday described honest taxpayers as the “silent architects” of India’s progress and said tax contributions play a crucial role in nation-building, supporting infrastructure development, national security and welfare programmes.
Addressing the 167th Income Tax Day celebrations here as the chief guest, the Governor said taxpayers were the backbone of India’s development and paying taxes should be viewed as a significant contribution towards building the nation rather than merely a legal obligation.
Shukla said India’s taxation system has traditionally followed a scientific and welfare-oriented approach, with revenue collected from citizens being utilised for public benefit.
Highlighting the country’s achievements, including modernisation of defence capabilities, construction of rural roads and space missions such as Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan, the Governor said these milestones were made possible in part due to the contributions of taxpayers.
Appreciating the transformation of the Income Tax Department, he said initiatives such as faceless assessments, e-proceedings and faster refund mechanisms had enhanced transparency and improved taxpayer services. He also lauded the ‘Vivad Se Vishwas’ scheme for strengthening trust and cooperation between taxpayers and the department.
Describing Hyderabad as a major centre for innovation, information technology, pharmaceuticals and startups, Shukla said Telangana’s youth were making a significant contribution to India’s economic growth.
He expressed confidence that the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat–2047’ could be achieved through expansion of the tax base and promotion of voluntary tax compliance.
The Governor urged Income Tax officials to uphold taxpayer trust and dignity and encouraged citizens to take pride in paying taxes, stating that every rupee contributed helps build a stronger and self-reliant India.
On the occasion, Shukla presented awards to Income Tax Department officials for outstanding performance in tax collection and released the department’s magazine “Tax Spark.”
The programme was attended by Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Suresh Battini; former Chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) K.V. Chowdary; senior Income Tax officials, employees, representatives of taxpayers’ associations and Chartered Accountants.
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