From Using Data Analytics & AI, Faceless Tax Assessment Scheme To Remove Physical Interface

The exceptions to the scheme include serious frauds, major tax evasion, sensitive and search matters. The system also excludes international taxation and Black Money Act & Benami Property.

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets during the launch of 'Transparent Taxation - Honoring The Honest' platform via video conferencing, in New Delhi, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2020. (PTI Photo)

New Delhi: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi, unveiled 'Transparent Taxation - Honoring the Honest' plan on Thursday, one of the most significant changes introduced is the faceless assessment that gets implemented from today and has been formulated keeping in mind the post-pandemic economy. Also Read:  What Is Taxpayers Charter And How Is It Going To Help You? In the video conference PM has urged taxpayers to come forward and pay taxes as part of their responsibility. "Those who are able to pay tax but are not paying taxes, should come forward with self-motivation. This is my request," said PM. The Faceless Assessment Scheme will basically look at eliminating the human interface between the taxpayer and the income tax department. Here are notable features of the Faceless Tax Assessment Scheme.

• Taxpayer selection will be processed through the system using data analytics and AI
• Another noted change is the abolition of territorial jurisdiction which means you may belong to one city but the tax returns may be assessed in some other city through random selection by computer.
• It will help in automated random allocation of cases
• Central issuance of notices with Document Identification No.(DNI)
• There won’t be any physical interface and requirement to visit the Income Tax Office
• Team based assessments and team-based review
• It will make possible the draft assessment order in one city, review in another city and finalisation in third city.

What are the exceptions to the scheme? The exceptions to the scheme include serious frauds, major tax evasion, sensitive and search matters. The system also excludes international taxation and Black Money Act & Benami Property.