How Did Punjab Achieve a 21.51% Increase in GST Collections by October?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 21.51% increase in net GST collections.
- 14.46% growth in October alone.
- Net GST collection reached Rs 2,359.16 crore for October.
- Performance surpasses national average of 7%.
- Strategic initiatives contributed to growth.
Chandigarh, Nov 2 (NationPress) In a remarkable display of fiscal strength and effective administration, Punjab has achieved a stunning 21.51 percent growth in net Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections up to October, with a notable 14.46 percent increase in October alone.
State Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema expressed pride in the state's performance, even amidst significant challenges such as severe floods and the recent restructuring of tax rates as part of GST 2.0.
According to the Minister, the state accumulated Rs 15,683.59 crore in net GST from April to October, a substantial rise from Rs 12,907.31 crore during the same timeframe last fiscal year, resulting in an additional Rs 2,776 crore.
In comparison, the growth rate for the same period in 2024-25 was only 3.8 percent.
The net GST collection for October reached Rs 2,359.16 crore, reflecting a significant leap from Rs 2,061.23 crore in October of 2024, indicating a gain of Rs 298 crore that showcases the state's persistent economic vitality.
Minister Cheema highlighted that this success is particularly commendable given the GST 2.0 reforms initiated in September, which have lowered various tax rates.
He stated, "Despite reductions in tax rates and facing extreme flooding, Punjab's GST revenue has seen a remarkable increase, demonstrating the effectiveness of enhanced compliance, anti-evasion strategies, and digital monitoring systems. Our growth of 21.5 percent significantly surpasses the national average of seven percent, placing Punjab among the leading performers in northern India," the Minister remarked in a statement.
He further noted that the latest figures from State GST and Integrated GST affirm Punjab's fiscal resilience, with cumulative growth in receipts surpassing all neighboring states except for Haryana.
This achievement, the Minister asserted, reflects the robust nature of Punjab's trade and industry, particularly as nearly half of the state's districts experienced flooding during this period.
Minister Cheema credited the results to the Excise and Taxation Department's strategic emphasis on data analytics, digital integration, and thorough field enforcement.