IIPA J&K REGIONAL BRANCH INSTITUTIONALIZES RAM SAHAI MEMORIAL LECTURE SERIES

Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) J&K Regional Branch today organized the 1st Shri Ram Sahai Memorial Lecture on “GST: A Comprehensive Tax Reform” in memory of Late Shri Ram Sahai, one of the founding members of the Regional Branch. Khawaja Bashir Ahmad, Advisor to Chairman, Empowered Committee of State Finance Ministers, delivered the key note address and Dr. S S Bloeria, Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Jammu presided over the function. The function was attended by members of the civil society, various trade, commerce and industrial associations, members of IIPA and family and friends of Late Shri Ram Sahai.

Khawaja Bashir Ahmad in his key note address 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. According to him, the GST will help in removing the cascading effects, shall be more comprehensive and will provide more relief to the industry while shifting the tax to the consuming state.

Dr. S S Bleoria in his presidential remarks 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 Shri 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 tribute to Late Shri Ram Sahai recalling his contribution to the IIPA, Chamber of Commerce and Industries and many other organizations. 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.

Shri Rahul Sahai, Chairman, Sahai Group of Industries thanked the organizers of IIPA in institutionalizing this lecture series and offered his support for future events in this direction. Sh. J B S Johar, Honorary Secretary, IIPA conducted the proceedings of the function and Dr. Anil Gupta, Joint Secretary, IIPA presented the formal vote of thanks.