Hans News Service Palasamudram (Sri Sathya Sai district)

UnionMinister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said that indirect tax and customs officials play a crucial role in safeguarding national security and promoting ease of trade in the country.

He addressed the graduation ceremony of 76th batch of Indian Revenue Service (Customs & Indirect Taxes) officers held at National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN) in Palasamudram on Saturday. A total of 79 IRS (C&IT) officers successfully completed their training as part of the batch.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said services rendered by customs and indirect tax officials significantly contribute to India’s growth and economic progress. He noted that the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) is rapidly transforming into a modern technology-driven institution, with reforms such as faceless assessment, automation, digital compliance and data analytics enhancing transparency and efficiency in governance.

Chaudhary stressed the need for officers to remain vigilant and professionally competent in dealing with emerging challenges, including cyber-enabled financial crimes, illegal trade networks and smuggling activities. He urged the newly inducted officers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism while discharging their duties.

The Minister observed that integrity forms the foundation of public service and said the credibility of officers depends on their honesty and impartial conduct. He pointed out that every administrative decision taken by officials directly impacts traders and citizens; therefore, governance should not only be efficient but also sensitive and humane.

Encouraging the officers to adapt to the changing global environment, Chaudhary advised them to continuously update their knowledge and enhance their professional skills to achieve excellence in every responsibility entrusted to them.

Senior NACIN officials, Penukonda Revenue Divisional Officer Anand Kumar, Tahsildar Madhu Naik and other officials attended the programme.