Lok Sabha Speaker Highlights Transparency and Growth in India’s Tax Framework

Address to Officer Trainees of the 76th Batch of the Indian Revenue Service (C&IT)

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla stated that reforms in direct and indirect taxes, along with the One Nation, One Tax GST framework, have made the country’s tax structure simpler and more transparent. He said that this has contributed to India’s growth and prosperity and emphasized that revenue service officers have the responsibility to uphold and strengthen this transparent system.

Shri Birla shared these remarks while addressing Officer Trainees of the 76th Batch of the Indian Revenue Service (IRS–C&IT), who are participating in an Appreciation Course in Parliamentary Processes and Procedures organized by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies in the Parliament House Complex.

Women’s Representation and Role of Youth

Expressing satisfaction at the rising number of women officers in Central and All India Services, Shri Birla said that this increase reflects the country’s growth and aspirations.

He also appreciated the technical skills and knowledge of the younger generation, noting that they are leveraging advanced technology, research, and innovation for national development. He said that the confidence and fresh viewpoints of young Officer Trainees will help India move toward global leadership and contribute to the goal of Viksit Bharat as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Parliament’s Role and Expectations from IRS Officers

In his address, Shri Birla highlighted that the Parliament of India is central to the nation’s democratic processes and policymaking. He said that IRS officers will emerge as key pillars of India’s economic strength in the coming years.

He added that IRS officers not only collect taxes but also play important roles in respecting honest taxpayers, facilitating business, preventing illegal trade and money laundering, and maintaining financial discipline.

Emphasis on Transparency and Modern Tools

Shri Birla reiterated that the government aims to simplify and ease the taxation system so that citizens feel connected to the nation’s growth and prosperity. He said that the objective is to ensure transparency and accountability and to create a framework where taxes are collected strictly according to the law. He observed that significant progress has been made in recent years.

He noted that modern tools such as digital tax systems, AI-based assessments, and data analytics are enhancing transparency and fairness in taxation. He encouraged the young Officer Trainees to contribute with their hard work, abilities, and innovative approaches.

Call for Deeper Understanding of Laws and Procedures

Shri Birla urged the trainees to study taxation laws, parliamentary debates, and recent legislation to understand the letter and spirit of the law. He expressed confidence that the batch of young IRS officers, with their dedication and technical expertise, will strengthen India’s tax administration and support the nation’s economic progress.

Batch Composition

The 76th Batch of the IRS–C&IT includes 79 Officer Trainees, with 5 trainees from Bhutan. Women constitute 40 percent of the batch, while 32 percent come from rural backgrounds. The average age of the batch is 28 years, and 51 trainees have prior work experience.

Secretary General of Lok Sabha, Shri Utpal Kumar Singh, delivered the welcome address on the occasion.