Karnataka's Gram Panchayat Tax Collection Reaches Historic ₹1,560 Crore, Says Minister Priyank Kharge
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Bengaluru, April 2 (NationPress) The tax revenue collected by gram panchayats in Karnataka has reached a remarkable total of Rs 1,560.76 crore, as reported by Priyank Kharge, the Minister for Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, and Information Technology and Biotechnology. This significant achievement reflects a steady increase in collections over time.
During a press briefing in Bengaluru, Kharge highlighted that the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department has established itself as a leading force in tax collection and revenue generation, operating through 5,943 gram panchayats across the state and exceeding last year's figures.
Last year, Karnataka earned the distinction of being the top-performing state nationally in terms of tax collection and revenue mobilization. Kharge expressed his contentment with the ongoing year-on-year growth in tax collection, attributing it to effective governance, rigorous rule enforcement, and enhancements to the tax collection framework.
Detailing further, Kharge mentioned that in the fiscal year 2024–25, gram panchayats achieved a historic milestone by collecting Rs 1,272.54 crore in taxes, fulfilling 80 percent of the current demand and marking a record. The following year, 2025–26, tax collection rose to Rs 1,382.57 crore, which is Rs 110.04 crore more than the previous year, achieving 89 percent of the current demand—another record milestone.
He attributed this success to comprehensive awareness initiatives, tax campaigns, and ongoing efforts aimed at improving collection practices. Kharge commended the commitment of all officials, from local bill collectors to senior authorities, for their contributions to these achievements.
Since the current administration took office, tax collection has consistently increased over the past three years. He emphasized that every rupee collected is being reinvested into rural areas, facilitating public works, enhancing services, and fostering local development, which is vital for rural advancement.
Notably, Raichur district excelled by collecting 129 percent of its tax target, while 11 districts in the state surpassed the 100 percent mark in tax collection.