1 minEconomic Concept
Economic Concept

Taxation

What is Taxation?

Taxation is a compulsory financial charge or some other type of levy imposed on a taxpayer (an individual or legal entity) by a governmental organization in order to fund government spending and various public expenditures.

Historical Background

India's tax system has evolved significantly since independence. Key milestones include the introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) at the state level and the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017.

Key Points

8 points
  • 1.

    Taxes can be direct taxes (e.g., income tax, corporate tax) or indirect taxes (e.g., GST, customs duty).

  • 2.

    GST is a comprehensive indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services.

  • 3.

    The Income Tax Act 1961 governs the taxation of income in India.

  • 4.

    The government uses taxation to raise revenue, influence economic activity, and redistribute income.

  • 5.

    Tax rates and exemptions are determined by the government through the annual Union Budget.

  • 6.

    Tax evasion and avoidance are major challenges for the government.

  • 7.

    The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) are responsible for administering direct and indirect taxes, respectively.

  • 8.

    Tax reforms aim to simplify the tax system, broaden the tax base, and improve compliance.

Visual Insights

Simplified GST Registration Process

Outlines the simplified Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration process for businesses in India.

  1. 1.Apply online through GST portal
  2. 2.Verification of documents
  3. 3.GSTIN allotment
  4. 4.Complete KYC verification
  5. 5.Registration certificate issued

Recent Developments

5 developments

Ongoing efforts to simplify the GST system and address issues related to compliance.

Government is focusing on tax reforms to promote economic growth and investment.

Increased use of technology for tax administration and compliance.

Recent changes in corporate tax rates to attract investment.

Efforts to combat tax evasion and money laundering.

Source Topic

Aircraft Leasing's Growing Role in India's Aviation Sector

Economy

UPSC Relevance

Important for UPSC GS Paper 3 (Economic Development). Questions are frequently asked in both Prelims and Mains regarding the tax system, tax reforms, and their impact on the Indian economy.

Simplified GST Registration Process

Outlines the simplified Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration process for businesses in India.

Apply online through GST portal
1

Verification of documents

2

GSTIN allotment

3

Complete KYC verification

Registration certificate issued