Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurates new CGST Bhawan in Ghaziabad

At the event, Sitharaman emphasized that NextGenGST should ensure transparency, efficiency, and respect for taxpayers, treating them honorably, addressing only bad actors, and prioritizing ease and trust in tax administration

Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the newly constructed Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Bhawan in Ghaziabad, highlighting the government’s continued focus on tax reforms and ease of compliance. Speaking at the event, Sitharaman stressed that the next generation of GST reforms, or NextGenGST, should prioritize transparency, efficiency, and respect for taxpayers.

“NextGenGST must feel different to the taxpayer. They should feel that they are honorably treated, as they are taxpayers to the nation. If there are bad actors, follow protocol to address them, but do not treat everyone with suspicion,” she said, urging officials to place ease and trust at the center of tax administration.

GST reforms driving economic growth

The minister also highlighted the positive trends in India’s economic landscape, citing data from the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT). According to the data, festive retail sales this year hit a record Rs 6.05 lakh crore, up 25 per cent from last year. Of this, Rs 5.4 lakh crore came from goods and Rs 65,000 crore from services, with 87 per cent of consumers opting for Made-in-India products.

Sitharaman noted that nearly 72 per cent of traders attributed the rise in sales to recent GST rate cuts on consumer goods, footwear, and home décor. “These figures show that reforms like GST rate rationalization are making a real difference, benefiting both traders and consumers,” she observed.

Future initiatives and accountability measures

Looking ahead, Sitharaman announced that from November 1, the Simplified GST Registration Scheme will enable automatic registration for most applicants within three working days. She directed field officers to ensure smooth implementation supported by well-equipped GST Seva Kendras.

The minister also emphasized accountability in CGST operations, urging timely disciplinary action against misconduct or dereliction of duty. Quoting the departmental motto, she said, “(Galat Kiya Toh Khair Nahi, Sahi Kiya Toh Koi Bair Nahi),” reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct.

Concluding her address, Sitharaman expressed confidence that continued reforms, teamwork, and commitment would make the GST system more efficient, equitable, and growth-oriented. “Keep up the good work, maintain reform momentum, and remember that our ultimate goal is to make life easier for the honest taxpayer,” she said.