CBEC exceeds tax arrears target by 42 per cent

New Delhi, May 13 (UNI) The Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) has exceeded by 42 per cent its target in recovering arrears of revenue fixed for the financial year 2007-08.

As against the target of Rs 3,550 crore, the Department has collected Rs 5,035 crore, an official release said here.

CBEC had adopted a Task-Force based approach for recovery of arrears in an effective manner. The Task-Force known as 'Tax Recovery Cell' (TAR) is headed by an officer of the rank of Chief Commissioner and is assisted by nodal officers stationed at six different locations across the country.

A well formulated Action Plan implemented in the Fiscal year 2007-08 included the sensitisation of Commissioners and Chief Commissioners by holding review meetings at Nodal/Zonal levels, initiating steps for vacation of the stay orders in deserving cases, filing early hearing applications in Courts and CESTAT and regular follow-up of such cases, circulation of favourable orders, including those for pre-deposit, passed by CESTAT and Courts for quick recovery of connected arrears, immediate recovery of arrears free from restraints and regular monitoring of performance of field formations in arrears collection.

Concerted efforts made by TAR in close coordination with the field offices, DGCEI and DGRI has aided in achieving this record realisation, the reease said.

UNI GS MP NS1737