Sundays on Cycle: 8 Years of GST and Awareness Drive

Sundays on Cycle: 8 Years of GST and Awareness Drive

To directly engage with participants and enhance GST awareness, several resources were available at the event venue.

RMN News Report

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) is celebrating a significant milestone – the upcoming completion of eight years of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India. As part of the run-up to this anniversary, CBIC, in coordination with the FIT INDIA Movement, organized a nationwide cyclothon titled “Sundays on Cycle”. This event aimed to blend public health advocacy with taxpayer engagement, promoting fitness while also raising awareness about GST.

The flagship “Sundays on Cycle” event took place early in the morning on May 18 at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. Beyond the main venue, the initiative saw enthusiastic participation from over 100 CGST commissionerates across the country. More than 50,000 cyclists participated nationwide, including senior officers from CBIC, representatives from various ministries and departments, and the general public. CGST zones in Mumbai and Pune also saw involvement from Bollywood celebrities such as Mr. Sunil Shetty, Mr. Milind Somam, and Mr. John Abraham.

At the New Delhi event, Shashank Priya, Member (GST), CBIC, highlighted the transformative impact GST has had on the Indian taxation system. He emphasized how GST unified approximately 30 different indirect taxes into a single, transparent tax structure. This unification has simplified tax administration and compliance for both businesses and citizens. Priya also pointed out the significant benefits provided to small taxpayers through initiatives like the GST Composition Scheme and the Quarterly Return Monthly Payment (QRMP) Scheme, which are designed to reduce the compliance burden and foster ease of doing business.

To directly engage with participants and enhance GST awareness, several resources were available at the event venue. A dedicated GST Help Desk titled “Know About GST” was set up to answer queries. Informational brochures covering key GST topics were distributed, and digital kiosks with QR codes were strategically placed, allowing attendees to easily download GST resource materials onto their mobile devices.

Additionally, vibrant hoardings and banners displayed information on major GST reforms and taxpayer-centric initiatives, with a specific focus on support for MSMEs and the GST registration process. These efforts were designed to create a comprehensive and engaging environment, aligning with CBIC’s vision of bringing GST closer to the people through public engagement and education.

The “Sundays on Cycle” cyclothon is another example of CBIC’s commitment to engaging with taxpayers and the general public through innovative and inclusive outreach programmes. This broader initiative blended national health goals with the celebration of the ongoing journey of GST reform, marking eight successful years under this landmark tax regime.