Mumbai, Feb 19 (KNN) A significant seminar focusing on GST and customs regulations for MSMEs was conducted on February 18, 2025, in Navi Mumbai.
The event, titled ‘GST & Customs Outreach Programme on Ease of Doing Business – Focus on MSMEs,’ was jointly organised by the Directorate General of Taxpayer Services (DGTS), Mumbai Zonal Unit, and the Navi Mumbai Branch of the Western India Regional Council (WIRC) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
Chief Guest Shri Mahesh Kumar Rustogi, Director General of Taxpayer Services, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), emphasised the federal nature of GST and its consensus-driven approach through the GST Council.
He noted that this collaborative framework has successfully addressed the previous challenges of varying state tax rates while establishing a more equitable business environment.
During the proceedings, Shri Sumit Kumar, Principal Additional Director General of DGTS, Mumbai Zonal Unit, provided a comprehensive overview of India’s GST evolution. He highlighted the system’s enhanced transparency and simplified procedures since implementation, particularly noting the reduced direct interaction between taxpayers and government officials.
Kumar emphasised the critical role of tax practitioners in facilitating various processes, including registration, returns, refunds, and appeals, while explaining how the self-assessment-based system has effectively streamlined compliance for small businesses.
The government’s commitment to MSME development was detailed by Shri Milind Barapatre, Joint Director and Head of Office at the MSME Development and Facilitation Centre, Mumbai.
He outlined various export-oriented initiatives, including a notable collaboration with the Postal Department, which has facilitated MSME access to global markets.
Barapatre also discussed the ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative, which aims to develop 6,000 products and strengthen micro-industries, thereby enhancing MSME competitiveness internationally.
The seminar concluded with an interactive question and answer session, allowing participants to seek clarification from the expert panel.
The event, which saw attendance from MSME representatives, chartered accountants, and taxation professionals, ended with a formal presentation of mementos to the speakers.
This outreach program represented a significant step in the government’s ongoing efforts to simplify business operations for the MSME sector through improved understanding of tax regulations and compliance procedures.
(KNN Bureau)
