CBIC’s Pavilion Shines at IITF 2024
The India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2024 witnessed a remarkable achievement as the GST and Customs Pavilion, organized by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), was awarded the Bronze Medal for its outstanding contribution to public communication and outreach. This recognition highlights the Pavilion’s dedication to enhancing taxpayer awareness and facilitating seamless information sharing. The award reflects the innovative strategies employed by the CBIC to bridge the gap between taxpayers and tax administrators.
Innovative Engagement Strategies
The GST and Customs Pavilion stood out for its innovative approach to engaging the public. By utilizing creative storytelling and advanced technology, the Pavilion made complex tax concepts more accessible to a diverse audience. Visitors were not only informed but also engaged through interactive displays and dynamic exhibits. This approach demystified the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Customs procedures, making them easier to understand.
The Pavilion’s theme, “Facilitating Trade, Fostering Economy,” focused on creating an informative experience. It featured comprehensive exhibits that highlighted key aspects of India’s indirect tax ecosystem. For the first time, the CBIC introduced the Red Indian Panda as the official mascot for IITF 2024, further enhancing the Pavilion’s appeal. The mascot served as a friendly face, inviting visitors to learn more about the tax system in a relaxed environment.
During the event, the Pavilion attracted over 85,000 visitors, showcasing its widespread appeal. The successful engagement strategies employed by the CBIC not only educated attendees but also fostered a greater understanding of tax regulations.
On-the-Spot Assistance and Query Resolution
One of the Pavilion’s key features was its commitment to resolving queries on the spot. During the trade fair, the CBIC staff addressed 687 queries related to GST and Customs. Additionally, they handled 4,514 general inquiries about the department’s functioning. This immediate assistance demonstrated the Pavilion’s focus on customer service and taxpayer support.
To further educate visitors, the Pavilion showcased tutorial videos on various topics, including e-invoicing under GST and Aadhar-based biometric authentication for GST registration. These videos were available in English, Hindi, and ten regional languages, ensuring that a broad audience could benefit from the information. The Pavilion also displayed 53 brochures on different GST and Customs topics, which can be downloaded from the CBIC’s official website.
The presence of dedicated helpdesks staffed by experienced tax professionals provided an additional layer of support. These helpdesks offered on-the-spot guidance on filing returns, resolving queries, and understanding the latest updates in tax regulations. This comprehensive approach ensured that visitors left the Pavilion with a clearer understanding of their tax obligations.
Engaging Activities and Educational Outreach
The Pavilion also featured engaging activities that captured the attention of visitors. A notable highlight was the demonstration by a trained Customs K9 named “PARO,” which showcased its ability to detect planted narcotics. This activity not only entertained but also educated attendees about the role of Customs in maintaining security and safety.
The CBIC’s commitment to outreach extended beyond the fair. The Pavilion’s educational initiatives aimed to strengthen understanding of GST and Customs provisions at the regional level across the country. By providing resources in multiple languages and formats, the Pavilion ensured that taxpayers from various backgrounds could access vital information.
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