The Department of State Taxes, Nagaland organised a one-day GST Training for Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs), dealers, taxpayers and stakeholders at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Wokha, on September 3. The programme was held in two sessions one for DDOs and another for taxpayers and stakeholders.
Deputy Commissioner of Wokha, Vineet Kumar, IAS, graced the programme as the Special Guest. In his address, Kumar emphasised the importance of tax collection in strengthening governance and ensuring public welfare. He noted that while taxes have been a feature of all forms of government throughout history, in a democracy, it remains essential for delivering welfare and development.
“A strong government is in the interest of everyone—the rich, the middle class, and the poor. It ensures stability, law and order, and that those left behind are also taken care of,” he stated. He further underlined that every contribution, however small, is vital in supporting governance. “The small share of taxes that we all contribute is a sacrifice for the larger good, so that we can live peacefully in society,” he remarked.
Kumar also reminded the DDOs of their responsibility in ensuring compliance. “In Nagaland, we are not collecting taxes as effectively as we should. There are leakages, and DDOs play a crucial role in addressing this. It is not just a moral obligation but also a legal responsibility,” he maintained.
Assistant Commissioner of State Taxes (ACST), Kohima, M. Yanrenthung Yanthan, delivered the keynote address and highlighted the significance of GST registration, tax compliance and obtaining Tax Clearance Certificates. He noted that the introduction of GST has brought about a major shift in the taxation framework of the State.
Speaking to the media, Yanrenthung informed that the department has been conducting similar awareness and training programmes across seven districts including Tuensang, Phek, Mokokchung, Wokha, Mon and Dimapur. “GST revenue growth has been encouraging, with June recording around 101% growth. However, leakages still exist at various stages of collection. These trainings are aimed at optimising tax collection and improving compliance,” he said.
Yanrenthung, along with Program Officer (IT Branch), Sanen Longchar, conducted detailed presentations and live demonstrations on Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) registration, return filing procedures and issuance of Tax Compliance Certificates.
Assistant Commissioner of State Taxes, Wokha, M Chibeni Lotha, delivered the welcome address. In the second session, Commercial State Tax Officer, Wokha, Ongshau Phom, spoke on registration and return filing procedures, while Lotha presented on Input Tax Credit. Yanrenthung also elaborated on payment, refund mechanisms and tax-related offences.
The programme concluded with an interactive session where participants from government departments, trade bodies and the business community raised queries and sought clarifications on GST implementation and compliance.
