New Delhi, August 31: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday announced that the state government will release around ₹1,600 crore in pending Goods and Services Tax (GST) refunds to traders before Diwali. The refunds have been pending since 2019.
The announcement came after Gupta chaired a special review meeting of the Department of Trade and Taxes (GST) at her Civil Lines camp office. The meeting was attended by GST Commissioner Nandini Paliwal, Finance Secretary Shurveer Singh, and other senior officials.
Focus on timely relief for traders
Gupta directed officials to ensure that all pending, undisputed, and genuine refund applications are processed on priority in line with existing rules. She emphasized that timely settlement will provide much-needed liquidity to traders, reduce litigation costs, and support economic growth in the capital.
Technology-driven verification
To speed up the process, the Delhi GST department, in collaboration with IIT-Hyderabad, has developed a new IT system leveraging data analytics, automation, and expedited verification. The government said the platform will enhance transparency and efficiency in settling refund applications.
Ease of doing business priority
The Chief Minister reiterated that improving ease of doing business remains a top priority for her administration. In line with this goal, the government has set up a Traders’ Welfare Board, which includes representation from the trading community to directly address their issues.
Gupta assured that the release of long-pending refunds would not only provide financial relief to businesses ahead of the festive season but also reinforce the government’s commitment to supporting traders as key stakeholders in Delhi’s economy.