To bring in more transparency, the Maharashtra government will launch e-payment gateways for stamp duty and registration charges. The government would also facilitate payment of stamp duty for leave and license deals through the internet by applying digital signatures. These initiatives are part of the 32 key resource areas (KRA) fixed by the state to increase the pace of development and revenue collection. "The Central government and the Reserve Bank of India have given their approval for the introduction of e-payment for the collection of stamps and registration, which is the second highest after value added tax and sales tax in the state. The idea is to make payment possible through credit and debit cards. The government had mobilised Rs 12,500 crore through stamp duty and registration in 2010-11 and it has set a target of Rs 15,000 crore for 2011-12. So far, in view of the current economic slowdown, especially in the realty sector, the state could mobilise Rs 5,000 crore during April-September, which is 32 per cent of the target," said a senior government official. The launch of e-payment aims at creating a hassle-free environment for the recovery of stamp duty and registration charges. The official admitted that the e-payment initiative would reduce interface between the government employees and tax payer and thereby curb corrupt practices.
BS
