Ranchi: Hemant Soren on Monday conducted a detailed review meeting of the Finance and Commercial Tax departments at the Jharkhand Ministry, with a sharp focus on budget management, revenue generation and effective implementation of government schemes.
Senior officials briefed the Chief Minister on the state’s overall financial condition, including budget estimates, revenue targets, establishment expenditure, capital receipts and grants received from the Central government. Discussions also covered the progress of various departmental schemes and development projects, expenditure trends and challenges affecting implementation.
Soren directed officials to ensure efficient utilisation of financial resources and maintain strict monitoring of development works so that projects are completed within the targeted timeline.
Jharkhand Ahead in Mining Revenue
During the review, officials highlighted that Jharkhand has performed better than neighbouring states like Odisha and Chhattisgarh in terms of mining revenue collection.
The officials attributed the growth to improved mineral resource management, transparent policies and tighter monitoring systems. Expressing satisfaction over the state’s performance, the Chief Minister asked departments to further strengthen transparency in the mining sector, crack down on illegal mining and increase the use of modern technology for monitoring operations.
Stress on Biometric System and Accountability
The Chief Minister also stressed the need for greater transparency and accountability in administration through the wider use of biometric systems. He instructed officials to ensure strict implementation of biometric attendance and technology-based governance practices across departments.
Coordinated Approach for Faster Development
Soren emphasised better coordination among departments to accelerate the execution of welfare schemes and development projects. He said integrated planning and teamwork would help improve efficiency and ensure better use of government resources.
Commercial Tax Department Asked to Boost Revenue
Reviewing the performance of the Commercial Tax Department, the Chief Minister examined the status of GST compliance, tax collection and measures being taken to increase state revenue.
Officials presented data related to GST, VAT, professional tax and other state taxes while also discussing challenges in tax collection. The meeting focused on strengthening monitoring systems, encouraging voluntary tax compliance and taking strict action against tax evasion.
The Chief Minister directed officials to use modern technological tools to improve enforcement and make tax administration more transparent and effective.
Simplifying Processes for Taxpayers
Soren also instructed officials to simplify departmental procedures and make them more citizen-friendly to improve taxpayer convenience and ensure sustained growth in revenue collection.
The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishore, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Development Commissioner Ajay Kumar Singh, Finance Secretary Prashant Kumar, Commercial Tax Secretary Amit Kumar and other senior officials.