Punjab Governor Greenlights Key Administrative Move to Fortify Chandigarh's Excise and Taxation Department
In a significant administrative development aimed at bolstering the operational capacity of the excise and taxation department, Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria has sanctioned the creation of two new positions for assistant excise and taxation commissioner (AETC). These roles are designated to be filled through deputation from the neighboring states of Punjab and Haryana, marking a strategic step to enhance departmental efficiency and revenue management.
Expansion of Manpower with Additional Officers and Inspectors
Beyond the establishment of the two AETC posts, the Chandigarh administration has also welcomed two excise and taxation officers (ETOs) from the Haryana government. Furthermore, three excise and taxation inspectors (ETIs) from the Punjab government have officially joined the department, contributing to a comprehensive strengthening of its workforce. Following the approval of the new AETC positions, the UT joint excise and taxation officer formally communicated with both the Punjab and Haryana governments, requesting them to submit panels of eligible officers for consideration.
According to the official letter, copies of which are available with TOI, the Chandigarh administration sought a panel comprising at least three qualified officers to occupy the two temporary AETC posts on a deputation basis. These appointments are initially set for a duration of one year, with the possibility of extension for up to two additional years, ensuring flexibility in staffing arrangements.
Stringent Eligibility Criteria and Documentation Requirements
The letter outlined specific eligibility criteria, stipulating that recommended officers must not have reached the age of 55 years. Additionally, it mandated the submission of annual confidential reports (ACRs) for the past five years, along with a certification confirming that no departmental or vigilance proceedings are pending or contemplated against the candidates. This rigorous selection process underscores the administration's commitment to appointing competent and unblemished personnel to critical roles.
Urgent Need for Enhanced Manpower to Meet Ambitious Revenue Targets
Officials have emphasized that reinforcing the manpower in the excise and taxation department is imperative, as it serves as the primary revenue-generating entity for the Chandigarh administration. The Union Ministry of Finance has established a formidable revenue target of approximately Rs 4,500 crore for the UT in the new financial year 2026-27. This target encompasses collections from GST, state excise, sales tax, and VAT, all of which fall squarely under the jurisdiction of the excise and taxation department.
An official from the Chandigarh administration highlighted that achieving such a high revenue goal necessitates robust groundwork and continuous, close monitoring of taxpayers. "There is a dire need for adequate officers and staff to ensure efficient administration and effective revenue collection. ETOs and ETIs from the neighboring state governments have already joined, and they have been allocated their respective duties," the official stated, underscoring the practical steps being taken to meet these challenges.
Current Workload and Expected Benefits from New Appointments
Presently, only one AETC from the UT cadre is managing all key affairs and day-to-day operations within the excise and taxation department, leading to a concentrated workload. With the approval of two additional AETCs on deputation, officials anticipate that responsibilities will now be distributed among three officers, thereby alleviating the burden previously shouldered by a single individual.
A senior Chandigarh administration official elaborated that with the inclusion of the two new AETCs, duties related to GST, excise, VAT, and establishment matters will be clearly bifurcated among the trio. "Bifurcation of work will reduce the immense burden on one officer and is expected to improve productivity as well as deliver more effective results," the official added, projecting enhanced operational outcomes from this structural adjustment.
Details of New Joinees and Revenue Targets for Key Wings
The two officers who have joined from Haryana are Ramanjit Singh and Rameshwer Dahiya. Meanwhile, the excise and taxation inspectors from the Punjab government include Shaveen Jain, Gurpreet Singh Koney, and Mandeep Singh Minhas. These officers from Haryana and Punjab have been selected for an initial period of one year, with potential extensions of up to two more years, ensuring continuity in departmental functions.
In terms of revenue objectives for the financial year 2026-27, the excise and taxation department has fixed ambitious targets across its key wings:
- GST (Goods and Services Tax): Rs 2,892 crore
- State Excise: Rs 1,000 crore
- Sales Tax and VAT: Rs 610 crore
This comprehensive restructuring and manpower augmentation reflect a proactive approach by the Chandigarh administration to streamline operations, boost revenue collection efficiency, and effectively meet the stringent financial targets set by the central government.
