Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Context: Briefly introduce the Planning Commission’s establishment in 1950 and its replacement by NITI Aayog in 2015. Significance: Highlight the importance of understanding the differences in their principles to grasp India’s developmental strategy. 2. Key Differences in Principles A. ...
The financial aspect of Centre-State relations in India has undergone significant changes with the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), also known as the "One Nation One Tax" regime. *Pre-GST Scenario:* 1. Multiple taxes: Central sales tax, state VAT, excise duty, etc. 2. Complex taxRead more
The financial aspect of Centre-State relations in India has undergone significant changes with the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), also known as the “One Nation One Tax” regime.
*Pre-GST Scenario:*
1. Multiple taxes: Central sales tax, state VAT, excise duty, etc.
2. Complex tax structure: Different tax rates, exemptions, and compliance requirements.
3. Revenue sharing: Centre and states shared taxes, with states receiving a significant portion.
*GST Regime (Post-2017):*
1. Unified tax: Single tax rate for goods and services across India.
2. Dual GST: Central GST (CGST) and State GST (SGST) components.
3. GST Council: Centre and states jointly decide tax rates, exemptions, and policies.
*Financial Implications:*
*Centre:*
1. Reduced revenue: GST rates lower than pre-GST taxes.
2. Compensation: Centre compensates states for revenue loss (5-year period).
*States:*
1. Increased autonomy: States have more control over taxation.
2. Revenue growth: GST revenue growth benefits states.
3. Dependence on Centre: States rely on Centre for compensation and GST Council decisions.
*Challenges:*
1. Revenue distribution: Disparities in revenue sharing between Centre and states.
2. Tax rate disputes: Differences in GST rates between Centre and states.
3. Compliance issues: Difficulty in implementing and enforcing GST.
*Benefits:*
1. Simplified tax structure
2. Reduced tax evasion
3. Increased transparency
4. Boost to economic growth
*Centre-State Relations:*
1. Cooperative federalism: GST Council promotes collaboration.
2. Increased dependence: States rely on Centre for revenue and policy decisions.
3. Potential conflicts: Disagreements over revenue sharing, tax rates, and exemptions.
*Reforms:*
1. Improve GST compensation mechanism
2. Enhance states’ autonomy in taxation
3. Streamline compliance procedures
4. Address revenue disparities
*Conclusion:*
The “One Nation One Tax” regime has transformed Centre-State financial relations in India. While challenges persist, the GST regime has simplified taxation, increased transparency, and boosted economic growth. Ongoing reforms aim to address revenue disparities, enhance state autonomy, and strengthen cooperative federalism.
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Model Answer Introduction India's Planning Commission was established in 1950, inspired by the Soviet model, to design five-year plans. In 2015, it was replaced by the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog, reflecting the evolving needs of the nation. Key Differences in PrinciplesRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India’s Planning Commission was established in 1950, inspired by the Soviet model, to design five-year plans. In 2015, it was replaced by the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog, reflecting the evolving needs of the nation.
Key Differences in Principles
1. Approach to Policy Formulation
2. Ideological Basis
3. Competitive Federalism
4. Decentralization and Participation
5. Financial Powers
6. Focus on Inclusive Growth
7. Coordination Role
8. Relationship with Government
Conclusion
While both NITI Aayog and the Planning Commission aim for socio-economic transformation, NITI Aayog’s approach is more modern, inclusive, and less bureaucratic, positioning it as a pivotal player in India’s development narrative.
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