Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla emphasized the importance of tax reforms in ensuring inclusive and sustainable development while addressing the inaugural session of a two-day International Conference on “Tax Reforms in India: Challenges and Prospects” at Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla. The conference was sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR).
In his address, the Governor stated that tax policy plays a pivotal role in mobilizing national resources for development, welfare initiatives and infrastructure creation. He described the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as a landmark reform that unified India’s indirect tax structure and strengthened cooperative federalism, calling it a milestone in economic justice and transparent governance.
He remarked that taxation is not merely a mechanism for revenue collection but a foundation built on trust, accountability and transparency between the State and its citizens. Tracing the evolution of India’s tax system since Independence, he noted that reforms, particularly after economic liberalization, focused on simplification and greater transparency. Initiatives such as “Vivad se Vishwas” were cited as examples of a participatory and trust-based approach to tax administration.
Referring to the principles of Acharya Chanakya’s Arthashastra, the Governor stressed that taxation should be just, balanced and welfare-oriented, promoting production and shared prosperity rather than imposing undue burdens. He described GST as a modern reflection of these principles aimed at fostering inclusive growth.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Priti Saxena welcomed the Governor and outlined the themes of the conference. Keynote speaker Prof. Nigam Nuggehalli from NLSIU Bengaluru highlighted the need for continuous evolution of tax reforms in response to changing economic realities. Conference Convener Prof. Girijesh Shukla spoke about modernization through digitization and AI-driven analytics in tax administration, while Registrar Prof. Alok Kumar delivered the vote of thanks.
Earlier, the Governor inaugurated the newly designed litigation lab at HPNLU and a Blood Donation Camp organized by the Youth Red Cross of the University. Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission, academicians, delegates and students were also present on the occasion.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
