Deepak.Yadav@timesofindia.comChandigarh: The UT excise and taxation department has recorded significant revenue increase in the first quarter of the 2026‑27 (April–June) financial year, registering growth across GST, VAT and excise segments, particularly as compared to the same period last year.The GST wing reported the maximum increase, with collections rising by Rs 151.1 crore. VAT revenue increased by Rs 26.3 crore, while excise collections grew by Rs 16.1 crore. Together, these figures reflect a strong upward trend in the performance of the department.GST collections in the first quarter stood at Rs 707.2 crore, marking a 27.1% increase over last year’s Rs 556.08 crore. VAT collections rose from Rs 137.3 crore to Rs 163.7 crore, showing a growth of 19.2%. Excise revenue climbed from Rs 265.7 crore to Rs 281.8 crore, registering a 6.7% increase.Officials attributed the growth to constant monitoring of taxpayers, tighter checks on liquor vends, streamlined fee collection, and a more user‑friendly tax‑payment system. Efforts to plug leakages and ensure timely compliance have also contributed to the improved figures.Sources said officers were assigned specific areas of responsibility to ensure proper collection and meet revenue targets. The department has also strengthened its manpower with the recent deputation of excise officers and inspectors from Punjab and Haryana. This additional staff has allowed closer monitoring of grey areas and better enforcement.According to officials, the enhanced manpower has enabled the department to divide responsibilities more effectively, ensuring that leakages are addressed promptly. The focus remains on improving efficiency and accountability across all segments.The department’s performance in the first quarter is seen as a positive indicator for meeting the ambitious revenue targets set for the current financial year. With GST leading the growth, officials are confident of sustaining momentum in the coming quarters.Box: Revenue Targets for 2026‑27The ministry of finance has set a revenue target of Rs 5,758.4 crore for the Chandigarh administration in 2026‑27. Of this, the excise and taxation department carries the largest responsibility.GST: Rs 2,892 croreState excise: Rs 1,000 croreSales tax/VAT: Rs 611 croreAll revenue collected by the Chandigarh administration is transferred to the Consolidated Fund of India. The ministry of finance has fixed department‑wise targets for both tax and non‑tax revenue streams to ensure accountability.Box: 1st Quarter GST Collection Comparison2025‑26: Rs 556.08 crore2026‑27: Rs 707.2 croreIncrease: Rs 151.1 crore (up 27.18%)Box: 1st Quarter VAT Collection Comparison2025‑26: Rs 137.3 crore2026‑27: Rs 163.72 croreIncrease: Rs 26.3crore (up 19.22%)Box: 1st Quarter Excise Collection Comparison2025‑26: Rs 265.7 crore2026‑27: Rs 281.8 croreIncrease: Rs 16.1 crore (up 6.7%)
