Dimapur IT dept launches New Income Tax Act awareness drive

Dimapur, May 14 (MExN): The Income Tax Department, Dimapur, under the Office of the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, North Eastern Region (NER), organised an extensive awareness campaign on the New Income Tax Act, 2025, as part of the nationwide outreach initiative ‘PRARAMBH 2026.’

The campaign held at Hotel Grand Maspel on May 14, was aimed at educating taxpayers, stakeholders and the general public on the provisions, reforms and implementation framework of the newly introduced Act, which came into effect from April 1, 2026. As per a DIPR report, it was held simultaneously across major North Eastern cities including Shillong, Imphal, Aizawl, Itanagar and Agartala.

The Dimapur event formed part of a broader regional outreach drive following a Mega Outreach Event held in Guwahati on May 7, 2026. The Department also announced plans to extend such awareness initiatives to rural and remote areas to ensure last-mile dissemination of information and greater taxpayer inclusion.

Giving the inaugural address, Commissioner of Income Tax, N Jungio underscored the importance of taxpayer awareness for the smooth implementation of the new tax regime, describing the Act as a “modernised and simplified framework” designed to make the taxation process easier, more accessible and user-friendly.

“The Department aims to educate and engage stakeholders for better understanding and trust,” Jungio said, adding that the “PRARAMBH 2026” initiative was launched to facilitate a smooth transition from the old tax system to the new regime.

Detailed presentations on the key provisions of the new Act were delivered by senior officers of the Department. Commissioner of Income Tax (Appeals) Imlimeren Jamir presented an overview of the New Income Tax Act, 2025 and Income Tax Rules, 2026, covering simplification, key features, taxpayer initiatives and digital tools. He highlighted the government's efforts to reduce procedural complexities and improve taxpayer convenience through digital initiatives.

Commissioner of Income Tax (TDS) T James Singson spoke on TDS provisions under the new Act, elaborating on updated tax deduction norms and compliance requirements. Deputy Director of Income Tax (I&CI) Upendro Nahakpam delivered a presentation on the Statement of Financial Transactions (SFTs), explaining reporting obligations and the role of financial transaction monitoring under the legislation.

A major highlight of the programme was the promotion of “Kar Saathi,” an AI-enabled chatbot developed by the Income Tax Department to assist taxpayers with real-time responses to income tax-related queries. A dedicated kiosk was set up at the venue, allowing participants to experience the platform first-hand.

Officials stated that the initiative reflects the Department's commitment to leveraging technology to make taxpayer services more efficient and accessible.

The Department informed that information on the new Act is being disseminated through social media, print and electronic media platforms. Officials also highlighted a range of taxpayer assistance resources developed under the initiative, including 12 comprehensive brochures in simple language, guidance notes, FAQs, and “Samvaad” video sessions featuring expert insights from officers involved in drafting the Act.

Digital platforms such as “Kar Setu” and “Kar Saathi” are also being utilised for outreach. The Department said these materials are available on the official Income Tax Department website and are being provided in regional languages to ensure wider accessibility. Physical copies of brochures embedded with QR codes linking to digital content were distributed at the venue.

The Department stressed the importance of stakeholder feedback in strengthening its outreach efforts. Participants were encouraged to share their views on the usefulness of educational materials, the effectiveness of “Samvaad” sessions, user experience with “Kar Saathi,” and the Department's overall outreach initiatives.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Additional Commissioner of Income Tax Vinikupu H Arkha.

The event witnessed participation from senior Income Tax officials, tax professionals, stakeholders from various sectors, media representatives and members of the public.

The Department reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a smooth transition to the New Income Tax Act, 2025 through awareness, capacity building and continuous stakeholder engagement.