- Government Initiative: CCEA approved the ₹1,435 crore PAN 2.0 project, enhancing taxpayer services.
- Digital Upgrades: Features include QR code-enabled PAN cards, a paperless unified portal, and better grievance management.
- Broader Utility: PAN will serve as a common business identifier across government platforms.
- Service Benefits: Faster access, improved data consistency, and eco-friendly processes.
- Current Reach: 78 crore PANs have been issued, with individuals comprising 98% of recipients.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Income Tax Department’s ambitious PAN 2.0 project. With a financial outlay of ₹1,435 crore, this initiative aims to modernize taxpayer registration services and align with the government’s Digital India vision.
Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the project will introduce significant upgrades, including free QR code-enabled PAN cards for citizens. The new system will feature a unified, fully online, and paperless portal that simplifies taxpayer services and prioritizes grievance redressal.
Highlights of PAN 2.0 Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unified Business Identifier | PAN will become a common identifier across specified government digital platforms. |
| QR Code-Enabled PAN Cards | Citizens will receive upgraded PAN cards with QR codes for easier verification and digital use. |
| Grievance Redressal Focus | A streamlined system to address taxpayer complaints efficiently. |
| Paperless Operations | Fully digital portal ensuring faster, eco-friendly service delivery. |
| Data Consistency and Security | Establishes a single source of truth for taxpayer data while safeguarding sensitive information. |
| Cost Optimization | Reduces operational expenses by moving to an eco-friendly digital infrastructure. |
Advancements in PAN 2.0
PAN 2.0 represents an upgrade from the existing system, focusing on:
- Modernization of PAN/TAN services, integrating core and non-core activities.
- Enhanced validation services for accuracy and efficiency.
- Unified access to grievance redressal, tax payments, and monitoring under one platform.
This transformative project is expected to significantly improve service delivery and simplify taxpayer interactions with government agencies.
The Scope of PAN Today
Currently, the Income Tax Department has issued approximately 78 crore PANs, with individuals accounting for 98% of the total. PAN is central to monitoring and linking various financial activities, including tax payments, TDS/TCS credits, income returns, and high-value transactions.
The PAN 2.0 project ensures this identifier evolves to meet the needs of a digital-first India, simplifying interactions between citizens, businesses, and government agencies.
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