Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 14: First Ram Sahai memorial lecture on GST a comprehensive tax reform was organized by Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) here today.
The key note address was delivered by Khawaja Bashir Ahmed Advisor to Chairman, Empowered Committee of State Finance Minister, delivered the key note address while Dr S S Bloeria, Vice Chancellor, Central University of Jammu presided over the function.
The function was attended by members of civil society, members of various trade, commerce and industrial associations, members of IIPA and family and friends of late Ram Sahai.
Mr Sahai former president of Chamber of Commerce and Industry who was a leading man of businessman of the State was one of the founding members of the Regional Branch of IIPA.
In his address Khawaja Bashir Ahmad traced back the history of tax reforms in India and highlighted some of the key issues pertaining to Goods and Services Tax (GST). Citing various successful international examples, he emphasized the need for fiscal autonomy to the states and harmonization of tax policies. He said the GST will help in removing the cascading effects and will provide more relief to industry while shifting the tax to the consuming State.
Dr S S Bleoria in his address focused on the four issues of tax policy-tax regime, tax collection apparatus, exemption mechanism and tax avoidance.
He said that fiscal prudence is necessary and important aspect of any taxation policy. He also acknowledged the contributions of late Ram Sahai who worked towards the welfare of the State, beyond his own self interests.
Earlier Dr Ashok Bhan Chairman IIPA J&K regional branch paid rich tributes to Ram Sahai. He recalled his contribution to the IIPA, Chamber of Commerce and Industries as well as many other organisations.
He said three of his qualities worth emulating were flagged as time management, deep commitment to corporate social responsibility and seriousness in doing whatever he embarked upon.
Rahul Sahai Chairman Sahai Group of Industries thanked the organizers of IIPA in institutionalizing his lecture. He offered his full support for future events in this direction.
He recalled the services of his father rendered to the business community and said former Chamber president never compromised on national interests in the State. He said Mr Sahai always gave preference to national interests while fighting for the cause of business community in the State.
JBS Johar, honorary secretary IIPA conducted the proceedings of the function while Dr Anil Gupta, joint secretary, IIPA presented the vote of thanks.
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