Andhra CM reviews state revenue, calls for action against tax evasion

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday issued a stern warning against tax evasion, directing officials to plug all loopholes undermining the state's revenue systems.

During a review meeting with revenue-generating departments, Naidu stressed the need to avoid harassment of traders and asked officials to focus on raising awareness among taxpayers about their financial obligations.

“Public satisfaction is vital to this NDA coalition government,” Naidu said in an official release, asking officials to analyse data since 2017 and review incentives given to tax evaders.

The officials informed the CM that the state’s estimated revenue for 2025–26 stands at Rs 1.24 lakh crore, noting a 5.71 percent rise in Goods and Service Tax (GST) and commercial tax collections from last year.

They further said that the registration revenues in April and May increased to over Rs 906 crore and Rs 916 crore, respectively, from around Rs 663 crore and Rs 583 crore from last year.

The TDP supremo suggested leveraging technology like satellite data to monitor mining activities, and optimise red sandalwood valuation in line with global market prices.

He also directed officials to strengthen the excise revenue under the new liquor policy, which is expected to generate an additional Rs 2,432 crore for the state.

Emphasising merit-based postings, Naidu directed officials to ensure revenue, registration, and tax services become more efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly with a focus on innovation.