Central University of Kashmir organizes “Tax Talks” in collaboration with Income Tax Department to promote fiscal awareness

GANDERBAL: Dean Students Welfare, Departments of Commerce, Management Studies, and Economics, Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Income Tax Department, Srinagar, organized “Tax Talks” - an awareness programme on fiscal responsibility and taxation at Green Campus here Thursday.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, emphasized the importance of conducting awareness programmes on taxation, describing such initiatives as “the need of the hour” to build a financially responsible citizenry. He highlighted the significance of understanding fiscal responsibility, particularly for students of Commerce and Management who will play key roles in shaping the country’s economic future.

In his presidential address, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Mir, Registrar, deliberated on the crucial role of income tax in nation-building and economic development. He stated that, to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, we must strengthen policies that are equitable, transparent, and beneficial to both the common people and for the nation. Dr. Mir underlined that the Income Tax Department plays a pivotal role in ensuring sustainable national growth through effective revenue mobilization.

In his keynote address, Mr. Shakil Ahmad Ganie (IRS), Deputy Commissioner of Income Tax, Srinagar, elaborated on the importance of expanding the tax base and implementing robust fiscal policies. He noted that reforms in tax policy are always driven by the objective of improving the welfare of the common citizen. Mr. Ganie explained how well-structured income tax systems contribute to poverty reduction, enhance purchasing power, and stimulate business growth, ultimately leading to a stronger economy.

In her speech, Ms. Rifat Aftab Qureshi (KAS), Addtl District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Srinagar, highlighted the dual importance of direct and indirect taxes in strengthening the government exchequer and ensuring sustainable development. She stressed that educational institutions play a vital role in promoting awareness about taxation and fiscal policies among students, thereby nurturing responsible future taxpayers.

A debate competition was also organized as part of the event, providing students a platform to express their perspectives on taxation and fiscal responsibility. The jury comprised Dr. Tasleem Araf Cash, Dr. Insha Mir, and Dr. Irfan. Mr. Towseef Ahmad, Ms. Hadiya, and Ms. Eilaf from the Department of Commerce secured the first, second, and third positions, respectively. The session was moderated by Dr. Asif Jeelani Khan while vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Insha Mir. Dr. Adil Nazki served as the rapporteur.