The Income Tax Department, Amritsar organized the 77th Republic Day at the Aayakar Bhawan premises in an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and patriotism. The Chief Guest of the event was Dr. G. S. Phani Kishore, Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Amritsar, while Ms. Komal Jopal, Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, graced the occasion as the Special Guest. The Chief Guest was accorded a Guard of Honour. Thereafter, at 9 a.m., the National Flag was unfurled by the Chief Guest in the august presence of the Special Guest.

While addressing the gathering on the occasion of Republic Day, Dr. G. S. Phani Kishore extended greetings to the citizens and paid homage to the sacrifices and martyrdom of the freedom fighters. He urged everyone to uphold the unity and sovereignty of the nation and emphasized that India is a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. Highlighting India’s cultural and religious diversity as the country’s greatest strength, he stressed the need to preserve and protect it.

The Chief Guest stated that the Income Tax Department is not merely a tax-collecting body, but plays a vital role in the overall development of the nation. Revenue collected through income tax is utilized for education, infrastructure development, defence, and social welfare activities. He further said that through the effective use of technology, the department is providing transparent and convenient services to taxpayers, enabling them to file income tax returns from their homes and resolve income tax-related issues efficiently.

On this occasion, cultural performances added charm to the event, with enthusiastic participation by officers, staff members, and their children from the Income Tax Department. At the conclusion of the programme, all participants were felicitated with prizes. The event was attended by Mr. Kanwaljit Singh, Principal Commissioner of Income Tax-1, Amritsar; Ms. Ratinder Kaur, Additional Commissioner of Income Tax; Mr. Himanshu, Additional Commissioner of Income Tax; Mr. Mewar Ram, Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax, along with representatives of the Bar and CA Associations, serving officers, staff members, and retired employees of the department.