Mysuru Zilla Panchayat CEO Issues Stern Directive for Tax Collection
In a decisive move to bolster revenue, Mysuru Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer S Yukesh Kumar has mandated officials to ensure a 90% collection of this year's taxes, including long-pending arrears, within a strict 15-day deadline. The IAS officer issued this directive during a video conference held at the ZP auditorium on Wednesday, expressing strong dissatisfaction with the sluggish pace of tax collection across several gram panchayats.
Strict Action Threatened for Non-Compliance
Kumar warned that failure to meet this ambitious target without valid reasons would result in recommendations for strict government action against the responsible officials. He emphasized that this year's tax collection must surpass last year's figures, highlighting the urgency for gram panchayats currently achieving only 50-60% to compulsorily reach the 90% mark within the stipulated period.
The CEO cautioned that poor tax collection could severely impact essential services, including staff salaries and library maintenance. To expedite the process, he directed Panchayat Development Officers and secretaries to personally visit households rather than delegating the task to bill collectors, ensuring a more hands-on approach to revenue generation.
Weekly Reviews and Performance Focus
Executive officers of all taluk panchayats have been instructed to conduct weekly progress reviews to monitor collection efforts. Kumar expressed concern over the apparent indifference of some PDOs towards revenue collection, urging them to prioritize performance over excuses. He pointed out that taluks with challenging terrain in other districts have successfully achieved fee collection targets, questioning why similar results cannot be replicated in Mysuru.
Proactive Measures for Drinking Water Issues
In addition to tax collection, the CEO addressed critical drinking water concerns, directing gram panchayats to collaborate with the rural drinking water supply department to proactively tackle potential shortages. He stressed that complaints must be resolved before they escalate to media attention, with strict action promised for any lapses.
Officials have been tasked with identifying problem areas, preparing street-wise lists, and utilizing taluk and ZP funds where gram panchayat grants fall short. The directive includes installing additional borewells and mini water supply units where necessary, along with mandatory water sample testing every 15 days to ensure safety and quality.
This comprehensive approach underscores the administration's commitment to improving both fiscal health and public welfare in the region.
