Delhi's Municipal Corporation has achieved a remarkable milestone in property tax collection. Officials confirm that the civic body collected over Rs 2,700 crore by December 31 last year. This figure represents the highest amount gathered since the unification of the MCD in 2022.
Record-Breaking Revenue Growth
The collection of Rs 2,700 crore marks a significant 45% increase compared to the same period in the previous financial year. This surge highlights improved efficiency and compliance within the municipal tax system.
Rising Number of Taxpayers
Simultaneously, the total number of property taxpayers in Delhi has shown substantial growth. This financial year, the count reached 12,43,375 taxpayers. Last year, the figure stood at 10,31,177. This jump of nearly 21% indicates broader participation in the tax net.
Impact of the SUNIYO Amnesty Scheme
The impressive growth stems largely from the introduction of the SUNIYO scheme. This one-time property tax amnesty initiative launched this financial year offers significant benefits to taxpayers.
Under SUNIYO, individuals receive a complete waiver on interest and penalties. To avail this, they must pay the current year's tax for 2025-26 along with any outstanding property tax dues from the past five years, covering 2020-21 to 2024-25.
An official explained that many taxpayers who previously filed incorrect property tax returns or paid lower amounts have taken advantage of this scheme. Approximately 1.70 lakh taxpayers enrolled in SUNIYO, generating substantial revenue.
Revenue from the Scheme
By December 31, the SUNIYO scheme contributed Rs 933 crore to the total property tax collection. This includes Rs 320 crore collected specifically from 91,000 new taxpayers who joined the system through this initiative.
Scheme Extension and Application Process
The MCD has decided to extend the SUNIYO scheme until January 31. However, a minor penalty of 5% will now apply for those applying during this extended period. Taxpayers can easily apply through the MCD's dedicated property tax portal, ensuring a streamlined process.
This record collection demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted amnesty programs in boosting municipal revenues. It also reflects growing compliance among Delhi's property owners, strengthening the city's financial foundation for future development projects.
