Pay income tax without logging into the IT portal

eznews.in

Pay income tax without logging into the IT portal

The Income Tax Department has launched an innovative ‘e-Pay Tax’ feature on its official portal, enabling taxpayers to settle their tax obligations without the need for logging in or entering passwords. This user-friendly system, described as "elegant" and "hassle-free," allows individuals to pay taxes simply by visiting www.incometax.gov.in and selecting the ‘e-Pay Tax’ option. Users must enter their PAN and mobile number to receive an OTP, which facilitates the payment process. Various tax categories, including regular income tax and advance tax, can be selected, and a summary of payment details is provided before confirmation. Upon successful payment, taxpayers receive an SMS and email acknowledgment, along with an instant download of the payment receipt. The department emphasizes that this feature not only modernizes tax payments but also fosters timely compliance and enhances engagement with taxpayers, particularly benefiting individuals and small businesses.

Published:
Apr 22 2025, 9 pm

eznews.in

India reassesses ASEAN trade pact to limit imports, tackle China

India has launched a review of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement (AIFTA), particularly the Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA), to address concerns over steel imports from ASEAN nations, which may be linked to Chinese investments. The review aims to tackle trade imbalances and the potential re-routing of Chinese goods through ASEAN countries to benefit from duty concessions, impacting domestic industries. Steel Secretary Sandeep Poundrik confirmed that suggestions for the review have been made, focusing on whether Chinese excess stocks are being disguised as products from ASEAN nations. India, a net importer of steel with imports reaching a decade-high of 9.5 million tonnes in FY25, is also conducting anti-dumping investigations into metal imports from Vietnam and China. The country has recently imposed a 12% safeguard duty on select flat steel imports from these nations, with final recommendations expected soon.

Published:
Apr 22 2025, 10 pm

eznews.in

Air India Express appoints new chairman and board member

In a significant restructuring, Air India Group has appointed Nipun Aggarwal as the new chairman of its low-cost subsidiary, Air India Express (AIX), succeeding Campbell Wilson, who will continue as CEO of Air India. Aggarwal, who also serves as Air India’s Chief Commercial Officer, will work alongside Captain Basil Kwauk, Air India’s Chief Operations Officer, who is set to join the AIX board pending regulatory approvals. This leadership change aims to enhance coordination between Air India and AIX, following a series of structural reforms over the past 18 months, including the merger of four airlines into two and the consolidation of non-flying teams. Wilson emphasized that with these changes largely complete, the focus will now shift to optimizing the group’s fleet and operations. AIX currently operates over 500 daily flights and is undergoing a five-year transformation program, V1Rise, to expand its domestic network and increase flight frequencies.

Published:
Apr 22 2025, 9 pm

eznews.in

Traders demand e-commerce policy and independent digital regulator

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), alongside several industry bodies, is advocating for urgent policy reforms to protect traditional retail from the encroachment of e-commerce and quick commerce companies. They are calling for the immediate enforcement of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and e-commerce regulations, as well as the introduction of e-commerce rules under the Consumer Protection Act. The coalition, which includes the All India Mobile Retailers Association and the Organised Retailers Association, has proposed imposing a luxury tax on e-commerce purchases and establishing an independent regulatory body for digital commerce. CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal criticized e-commerce firms for manipulating markets and undermining small retailers through aggressive pricing strategies. To bolster their cause, CAIT plans a nationwide campaign starting May 1, aiming to engage local trade associations and submit recommendations to government officials. Additionally, they intend to address gig economy workers' rights with the human rights commission.

Published:
Apr 22 2025, 9 pm

eznews.in

Mumbai airport halts freighter flights starting August 16

Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport will suspend all freighter operations from August 16 to facilitate essential infrastructure upgrades, including the construction of new taxiways to enhance operational efficiency. Handling 24% of India's total cargo, the airport's decision has raised concerns among airlines, who view it as a tactic to encourage a shift to the upcoming Navi Mumbai airport, set to open in June. While cargo will still be transported on passenger flights, the ban on dedicated freighters will significantly reduce capacity, as larger cargo aircraft like the Boeing 777 can carry around 100 tonnes. The announcement, made in a letter to airlines on April 21, caught many carriers off guard, with some expressing frustration over a lack of prior consultation. Discussions between airlines and airport officials are expected to address these concerns, as preparations for cargo facilities in Navi Mumbai continue.