The Income Tax Department has intensified its crackdown on tax evasion, recovering ₹37,000 crore over the past 20 months from individuals who failed to file income tax returns despite having taxable income. This massive recovery is the result of targeted efforts leveraging data analytics and the Non-Filer Monitoring System (NMS), according to senior officials.
High-Value Transactions Under Scrutiny
The department has been analyzing data on significant transactions since FY 2019-20, including cash purchases of gems, jewelry, luxury properties and expensive vacations. "These are cases where individuals made large purchases but failed to file tax returns," an official said.
Additionally, some individuals filed returns claiming zero income, despite engaging in substantial spending and accruing significant tax liabilities. Out of the total ₹37,000 crore collected, ₹1,320 crore came from individuals involved in high-value transactions.
Enhanced Tax Monitoring System
The crackdown has been facilitated by an expanded and stricter tax collection and TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) system. By synchronizing data from multiple sources, the department has been able to identify discrepancies in taxpayers' income and expenditure patterns. "With advanced tools, we can now track evaders more effectively," the official said.
Surge in Direct Tax Collections
The intensified efforts align with a broader trend of rising tax compliance. Between April and November 2024, direct tax collections increased by 15.4%, reaching ₹12.10 lakh crore. This includes ₹6.61 lakh crore from non-corporate taxpayers and ₹5.10 lakh crore from corporate tax.
The Path Ahead
The Income Tax Department plans to sustain its rigorous approach, focusing on individuals whose spending patterns do not align with their declared income. Through data-driven strategies, the department is closing gaps in tax compliance and ensuring that tax evaders are held accountable.
This ongoing crackdown reflects the government's commitment to enhancing tax transparency and boosting revenue collection in line with India's growing economy.
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