Governor Shukla Stresses Tax Reforms for Inclusive Growth at Shimla International Conference
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, in a significant address on Friday, underscored the pivotal role of tax reforms in driving inclusive and sustainable development across India. He delivered these remarks during the inaugural session of the two-day International Conference titled "Tax Reforms in India: Challenges and Prospects", which was organized by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) at Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU) in Shimla.
Taxation as a Tool for Trust and Transparency
Shukla articulated that taxation extends far beyond mere revenue generation, serving as a foundational element for fostering trust, accountability, and transparency between the state and its citizens. He highlighted the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as a landmark reform in India's fiscal history, noting its critical function in unifying the nation's indirect tax system and reinforcing the principles of cooperative federalism.
Evolution of India's Tax System and Modern Reforms
Tracing the trajectory of India's tax policies from Independence to the present day, the governor emphasized the post-liberalization reforms aimed at simplifying processes and enhancing transparency. He pointed to initiatives such as "Vivad se Vishwas" as prime examples of a participatory and trust-based approach to tax administration, designed to resolve disputes amicably and promote compliance.
Historical Insights and Welfare-Oriented Taxation
Drawing inspiration from ancient wisdom, Shukla referenced Acharya Chanakya's Arthashastra to stress that taxation should be just, welfare-oriented, and balanced. He argued that such an approach not only encourages production and economic activity but also ensures shared prosperity and social equity, aligning with broader developmental goals.
Additional Inaugurations and Conference Highlights
In addition to his keynote address, Governor Shukla inaugurated the redesigned HPNLU litigation lab and a Blood Donation Camp organized by the Youth Red Cross, showcasing the university's commitment to practical legal education and community service. The event was warmly welcomed by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Priti Saxena, who greeted a diverse audience of academicians, delegates, and students, fostering a collaborative environment for discussing fiscal policies.
The conference served as a platform for in-depth dialogue on the challenges and future prospects of tax reforms in India, with Shukla's insights highlighting the ongoing efforts to create a more equitable and efficient tax regime that supports sustainable development nationwide.
