ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated the urgency for accelerating reforms within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), emphasizing the need to complete the reform process promptly.
During a meeting focused on the FBR’s reform progress on Thursday, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of creating a “cordial and friendly” environment for taxpayers within the organization. He underscored that leveraging modern technology is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of tax collection and revenue systems.
PM Shehbaz also directed officials to devise a comprehensive strategy for restructuring Pakistan Revenue Automation Limited to improve efficiency. He called for enhancing the professional capabilities of FBR officers to ensure their effective deployment and to strengthen systems aimed at curbing smuggling.
Updates to Active Taxpayers’ List
In a move to improve transparency, the FBR has revised its procedures for the Active Taxpayer’s List (ATL). The list will now be updated daily instead of weekly, allowing for more accurate documentation of tax-compliant citizens. Taxpayers who submit their Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the tax year 2023-24 by the due date or extended deadline will be included in the ATL immediately, facilitating timely recognition of active taxpayers. Furthermore, late filers can still be added to the ATL by paying a specified surcharge under section 182A of the Income Tax Ordinance.
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Polio Day Tribute
On World Polio Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz paid tribute to the efforts and sacrifices of polio workers and acknowledged the support from international partners in the fight against the disease. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making Pakistan polio-free, noting the resurgence of polio cases necessitates collective action. The Prime Minister launched a nationwide vaccination drive, personally administering polio drops to children, and expressed gratitude to the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for their support. He also commended the Saudi government for its assistance in this endeavor.
Labour Attachés Directive
Additionally, the Prime Minister has instructed newly appointed community and labour welfare attachés at Pakistani missions abroad to diligently seek employment opportunities for skilled Pakistani workers. He emphasized that the welfare of overseas Pakistanis should be their top priority, noting that these citizens contribute significantly to Pakistan’s economy by bringing in billions of dollars.
