Punjab government takes action against tax evasion, offering rewards for compliance

Punjab E News: The Punjab government’s “Bill Lao, Inaam Pao” (Bring a Bill, Win a Reward) scheme has emerged as a major initiative to promote tax compliance. The aim of this scheme, introduced by the Mann-led government, is to encourage consumers to demand bills from dealers after making purchases.

As a result, more people are showing enthusiasm for asking for bills post-purchase. Through this initiative, consumers uploading their bills on the government app stand a chance to win cash prizes of up to Rs 1 lakh every month via a draw.

Numerous consumers across the state have already won cash rewards through the scheme, which not only motivates public participation but also helps curb tax evasion. Recently, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema shared statistics revealing that 97,443 bills had been uploaded on the Mera Bill app, resulting in 2,601 winners receiving cash prizes totaling Rs 1,51,62,335. Another 709 winners are set to receive Rs 41,39,450 in the coming days.

This initiative has led to a significant rise in tax compliance, with authorities taking strict action against those found guilty of irregularities in bill issuance.

A total fine of Rs 7,92,72,741 has been imposed on violators, with Rs 6,16,98,869 already recovered.

The success of the “Bill Lao, Inaam Pao” scheme highlights the Punjab government’s efforts under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to bring transparency and accountability into the tax system, while also strengthening the state’s tax structure.