Current Affairs

166th Income Tax Day celebrated by Income Tax Department, West Bengal and Sikkim Region

166th Income Tax Day celebrated by Income Tax Department, West Bengal and Sikkim Region

Kolkata; July 24, 2025

166th Income Tax Day was celebrated by Income Tax Department, West Bengal and Sikkim today. Shri Subhro Kamal Mukherjee, Vice Chancellor of Rabindra Bharati University & Former Chief Justice of the High Court of Karnataka graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Shri Sourav Ganguly, former Captain, Indian Cricket Team & Former President of BCCI, the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, WB & Sikkim, the Director General of Income Tax (Investigation), WB, Sikkim & NER along with other senior officials of IT department were also present during the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Mukherjee praised the smooth income tax collection system, highlighting its efficiency. He noted that taxation is not new to India, citing ancient texts like the Raghuvansham by Kalidas, which likens taxes to the sun drawing moisture from the earth. Kautilya’s works also underscore the importance of taxation in governance, he added. Furthermore, he emphasized that tax laws should be lucid and simple, as complexities can lead to unintended consequences.

Shri Ganguly commended the IT department’s outstanding efforts, illuminating the path to a brighter nation. The other speakers underscored the importance of dedication, fairness, equity, and empathy in collecting taxes, highlighting that citizens play a pivotal role in nation-building through their contributions. According to them, by fostering a sense of pride and responsibility, the department operates under the approach of “Together We Can, Together We Win,” which embodies the spirit of collective progress.

Income Tax Day, celebrated on 24th July every year, marks a significant milestone in India’s fiscal history. This day commemorates the introduction of income tax in India by Sir James Wilson in 1860. Income Tax plays a crucial role in nation-building by supporting the fundamental functions of an effective state. It provides the necessary revenue to ensure security, funding essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. These services are vital for the well-being of citizens and the overall development of society. Additionally, the revenue from income tax facilitates economic development by enabling investments in various sectors, promoting growth, and creating job opportunities.

 

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