Lucknow : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday conducted a comprehensive review of the State Tax Department’s performance through video conferencing with officials at the state and zonal levels. Stressing the importance of fiscal discipline, the Chief Minister called for the adoption of a policy rooted in transparency, technological efficiency, and robust enforcement to ensure maximum revenue generation and compliance.
CM Adityanath directed officials to intensify the crackdown on shell companies and fraudulently registered firms, calling tax evasion a “national crime” that undermines development and welfare initiatives. “Tax evasion is not just an economic offense, it disrupts the delivery of services to the common citizen and should be dealt with sternly,” he said.
Ground Inspections for All New Registrations
The Chief Minister instructed officers to conduct field inspections for all newly registered firms and carry out thorough departmental reviews of firms registered under the State GST (SGST). He added that any irregularity must result in immediate cancellation of registration and FIRs against defaulters. For suspicious firms under Central GST (CGST), he said data must be promptly shared with central authorities for necessary action.
Performance Review of GST and VAT Collections
Officials informed the CM that during April-May 2025, revenue collection under GST and VAT had reached ₹18,161.59 crore, against an annual target of ₹1,75,725 crore for FY 2025-26. Appreciating the efforts, the Chief Minister encouraged departments to expedite steps towards target achievement.
He specifically lauded the performance of around 14 zones — including Lucknow, Ayodhya, Bareilly, Agra, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Meerut, Jhansi, and Saharanpur — that achieved over 60% of their respective collection goals. However, he also expressed concern over zones such as Varanasi-I, Prayagraj, Kanpur-II, Etawah, Aligarh, and Moradabad, where the collection was below 50%, calling for immediate review and corrective strategies.
The CM directed that special reports from low-performing zones be submitted to the headquarters and shared with policy experts for thorough analysis. “Revenue is not just a number, it is the cornerstone of development. Every official must handle their role with accountability and sensitivity,” he stated.
Dialogue with Traders, Trust Building Essential
CM Yogi stressed the importance of direct communication with traders, particularly in underperforming areas. He advised Additional Commissioners, Joint Commissioners, and Deputy Commissioners to actively engage with the business community to foster a culture of trust, cooperation, and voluntary compliance.
“The tax department must not only enforce rules but also act as a facilitator for genuine taxpayers. Strong communication channels will help demystify the system and ensure honest trade practices,” he said.
Strengthening Revenue with a Vision
Reiterating his government’s commitment to good governance, the Chief Minister underlined that enhanced revenue collection was critical to funding infrastructure, public welfare, and other state development goals. He concluded by encouraging all departments to remain vigilant, proactive, and results-driven to meet the state’s ambitious targets under the “double-engine government.”
The meeting was attended by top revenue officials, zonal commissioners, and representatives from the finance and commerce departments.
