Ceasefire

 

Trump saves Pakistan!

Though Telegram and Reuters gave out "news" of Indian 4-5 planes being downed, India seems to have had the better of the  exchanges, despite solid material support from China and Turkey.

But Trump has preempted matters  by unilaterally announcing a Ceasefire  between the combatants. Mystifying and totally unacceptable, most patriotic Indians feel, just when we had brought Pakistan to its knees.

1) The Simla Treaty which defeated Pak PM ZA Bhutto, was summoned here to sign, expressly forbids the intervention of any third party in Indo-Pak issues. All matters are to be settled Bilaterally!

Now, not only USA, but every Tom, Dick and Harry, will offer to mediate. And though Terror was condemned by all,  post Pahalgam, not one country explitly named Pakistan as the perpetrator.... despite EAM Jaishankar's diplomacy.

2) Trump further decides to interfere in the Kashmir problem. We simply can't accept this, especially if a plebiscite/referendum is what Trump is going to suggest.

3) And horror of horrors, Trump equates  criminal Pakistan with victim India.

4) After 26 of ours were butchered in Pahelgam, we waited and then attacked terrorist sites and later, bases. While we were beginning to have the better of the conflict, Trump jumps in, with an intervention  favorable for Pakistan.

 5) What about punishing the 4 real murderers whose pictures were even shown on TV.? Pakistan should be forced to hand them over.

6) Iconic Karl Clausewitz considered "War as an extension of Policy". What were the "strategic goals" we set out to achieve?

7) How many of these goals were achieved in our strike on terror camps and bases?

8) Strong leaders act, sans trumpeting what they are going to do... but hit really, really hard. President Theodore Roosevelt wisely 

said,  "Talk softly, and carry a big stick".

9) After attacking with drones and missiles, we should have allowed our regular forces .. Army, IAF, Navy .. to engage with the enemy and show their superiority. The army sriking with actual boots on the ground; the Navy with our 2 aircraft carriers (as we drove along Venduruthy bridge today, we saw the empty Naval Docks!); IAF with the Rafales which cost over $250 mn each. 

10) Though the Pakis are no pushover, their geography precludes "Defense in Depth".

 11) Afghan Taliban and their own Balochis are baying for blood.

12) With Pak finances in a total mess, why did we allow the IMF loan of $1,5 bn to go virtually uncontested on 9th, despite Paramesawran Iyer have taken over as Director. Arm-twisting by Big Bully Trump?

12)  Though Trump announced the Ceasefire,  the devil is in the details. We should be cautious dealing with the likes of Pakistan, with Trump as referee.

Especially on the Kashmir question!

J P Alexander

We saw a ceasefire.

Was there something far more Sinister

Everyone’s talking about Trump.

But no one’s asking the only question that matters:

Why did India agree to a ceasefire?

This isn't post.

It’s a classified timeline 

buried beneath headlines,

scrubbed from primetime,

loaded with silence.

Because May 10 wasn’t a truce.

It was a warning shot veiled in diplomacy.

Let’s rewind.

May 9, sunset. Blackouts.

Pakistan attacked again.

India didn’t flinch.

The PM gave the signal. 

The NSA nodded.

The Chiefs understood: 

this changes everything.

May 10, early hours.

Operation Sindoor – Phase 3.

BrahMos-A missiles.

SPICE 2000 bunker busters.

Between 12 AM and 4 AM—

11 precision strikes.

Eleven Pakistani airbases erased:

1.Nur Khan, 

2.Rafiqui, 

3.Murid, 

4.Sukkur, 

5.Sialkot,

5.Pasrur, 

6.Chunian, 

7.Sargodha, 

8.Skardu,

9.Bholari, 

10.Jacobabad.

11.Radars Gone.

But three?

Three rewrote the doctrine.

*Nur Khan – Rawalpindi.*

*Sargodha – Pakistan’s nuclear nerve.*

*Jacobabad – F-16s & nuclear storage.*

Then it shook.

*1:44 AM – Earthquake. 4.1 magnitude.*

*3:40 AM – Another. 5.7 magnitude*

*No tectonic fault lines collision* 

*Just fallout.*

*India cracked open bunkers of nuclear.*

Pakistan trembled.

7:40 AM – Pakistan Called emergency NCA meeting.

India rewrote…

Mapped, Exposed &  Annihilated.

One more strike and Pakistan becomes a case study.

Desperation took over.

Hotlines buzzed:

Washington. 

Brussels. 

Beijing. 

US knew Pakistan will be gone.

Its leverage in South Asia would vanish.

Meanwhile:

Russia had a plan.

Ukraine ceasefire. 

Putin agreed.

May 10 evening – 

Announcement set.

Then… delay.

Putin paused. 

Trump was furious.

So he pivoted.

India–Pakistan = his new theatre.

He called Delhi: 

“Pause this.”

India replied: 

“Only on our terms.”

He called Islamabad: 

“You go first.”

3:35 PM – May 10.

DGMO Pakistan to DGMO India:

"We’re ready to lay down weapons."

Trump got his headlines.

5:33 PM – He jumps the gun.

Announces ceasefire 

before India could speak.

5:38 PM – Pakistan makes it official.

Thanks the US. 

Paints surrender as strategy.

6:00 PM – MEA India responds.

Cold. 

Calculated. 

Unimpressed.

But behind the curtain  China was furious.

“How dare you leave us out?”

They called Islamabad. 

Scolded.

And to fix the breach,

Pakistan violated the ceasefire.

To appease Beijing.

So now it's a food for thought,

Were those earthquakes natural?

*Or did BrahMos whisper into Pakistan’s bunkers?*

Did India strike nuclear assets?

Did Trump jump because Putin paused?

Did F-16s fall before they flew?

Was China always the ghost in the cockpit?

Did Trump arm-twist India?

Why is Modi still silent?

And the final question:

Is there even a ceasefire...

if nothing was signed?

Or is this illusion 

taped with American ego,

and Chinese rage 

waiting to detonate?

Don’t fall for headlines.

Don’t get high on anchors.

Watch the silence.

That’s where the truth lives.

And when it spills 

remember who told you first.

China and Turkey understood ineffectiveness of machinery 

Russia and France looking for big orders 

Pak celebrating Lost war 

India hurraying its WIN

 *….Looks like, all parties achieved their KRA (Key Result Areas) - Pakistan got loan, China tested their missile system, Turkey tested their drones, India and Russia tested S400 and Brahmos, France tested Rafale,  some terrorists got their 72 virgins,*

*….And, Trump got his credit.*

For everyone who is disappointed that we didn’t finish Pakistan. I have only one question.

What exactly do you mean by “Finish Pakistan”? What do you expect to do?

Do you want to do a WW2 style Operation Sickle Cut, launch armored pincer movements, encircle Pakistani armies and annex Pakistan? Why on earth would you want to do that?

Do you want to add 300 million hostile people, some of whom already think blowing themselves up is their greatest purpose in life?  How will you manage them? 

Is that how you will finish Pakistan?

Or do you want to nuke them out of existence? 

Because let me give you a reality check here. We won’t do that. We can’t do that. Indian citizens cannot morally contemplate, let alone sanction, nuking 300 million people. So that option is out.

Then Someone said, “Let’s split Pakistan into 5 countries”. 

Now, Pakistan isn’t some Ikea Furniture that you can assemble or disassemble at your will. As hopeless they may be, they still have a functioning military and a working bureaucracy. They will do anything they can to keep the country together.

With all our might, with all our focus, we can exploit that Faultline, but it will take a lot of money and energy and 10-15 years. Are you ready to wait that long? 

Some people said we should do a large-scale attack on all their air bases, military bases, Ports, Military HQ everything. Obliterate them out of existence. 

Sounds nice if you are movie general. 

In reality if we do that, Pakistan will launch nukes on Mumbai and Delhi. Simple. Because it will be their last resort and they will exercise it. 

Obviously, we will retaliate and wipe them out of existence, but are ready to lose our 2 big cities and the lives of 20 million Indians as a price for taking out their military? 

I don’t think so.

Finally, what is War? War is nothing but politics by other means. And War without objective is pointless. 

Any battle launched should be with a purpose. 

Our purpose in this strike was two-fold

1. Send a message to Pakistan that for every Indian your terrorist kills, we will kill 100 of your terrorists. We will take you out even if you are ensconced in the heart of your country. We will come after your terrorists like a wrath of God.

2. If Pakistan retaliates, not only can we handle them, but we will also hit and twist the knife if it comes to that.

We have achieved it. In fact, we have more than achieved it. 

We have put the fear of God in the terrorists. Obviously, they will try again, but this time they know we will hit back.

And we have clearly shown Pakistan that we can penetrate wherever we want into Pakistan, while the maximum they can do is look up and shake their fists.

Some people also speak about India being diplomatically isolated. 

In this entire exercise, if anyone has been isolated, it is Pakistan. 

In the olden days, as soon as something bad from Pakistan happened, most countries used to descend on us, asking us to be restrained, calm, resilient etc.

This time not only did nobody speak, but they also allowed us three days of complete freedom of action where we stuck fear in the hearts of the Pakistani military. 

So much so, they had to beg to us to stop.

In international diplomacy, no country will come out and say “Please attack someone else. We are with you” . 

They will support you only when you are being attacked. The fact that nobody said anything when we attacked, is a diplomatic success in itself. Just that we don’t see it.

To summarize, as far as Operation Sindoor is concerned

1. We sent 200 jihadis to where they belong.

2. Took out 9 terrorist locations deep inside Pakistan

3. Attacked all major Pakistani Air bases, made a complete mockery of their air defence system.

4. Made them beg for us to stop. I mean if it is a wrestling match, the person who taps out first is the one who loses. Pakistan tapped out. Ergo, they lost.

5. Ensured Indus Water Treaty is now firmly in the dustbin.

6. Have given ourselves the freedom to attack Pakistan as soon as a Terrorist incident takes place.

If this is not a win for us, then I don’t know what is.

P:S: India wants to be an advanced country and has to provide for 80 crore people who are below the age of 30. 

We have to focus on industrialization, technological self-sufficiency and agricultural modernization. 

We have higher priorities than fighting pointless wars against a country who has nothing and can give nothing.

@thekaipullai

👌👌 India definitely led a very well planed and successful operation 🫡

We have to be thankful to the govt and armed forces for that. 

As a citizen i am glad that the taxes are being utilized in the right direction. Defence and Infrastructure is coming up in a big way with the taxes that each of us Indian citizens are paying. 

Not each one of us can be in the battlefield but the least we can do is not complain and not cheat on our taxes.  

As far as Pakistan is concerned I don't know about it being a piece of IKEA furniture or not but it did dissemble once when Bangladeshis were suffering and decided to separate. Today Balochis are suffering so I feel it is natural today or tomorrow or in few years it might also disemble. 

Monali Gosh 👆

My lessons:

1. Israel will side India, Turkey Pakistan.  Nobody else can be trusted

2. India lack info war strategy.  They go professional way. Terrorism is different from military warfare 

3. We need a war to unite. If there is a extraterrestrial attack may be only then everyone on earth will unite. Otherwise we human need something to fight for.

4. Though most of us know war will lead to destruction,  when we call for peace we are immediately labeled wore/woke. 

5. IMF fund Terror and other countries who encourage us to go for war want to see our country collapse.

Purely my thoughts.

At this stage, it's difficult to figure out what really happened. Neither side will admit damage done to its own installations or planes.

But we should have ensured getting back the 4 murderers before agreeing to the Ceasefire at a stage when we believed we were winning.

And getting Trump in as mediator was against the specific clause of  "no 3rd party" in the Simla Agreement which Pak PM was forced to sign after Pakistan's massive defeat in 1971.

BOTM - May 25

 Here are synopses of the books on poll:

1. The Feast of the Goat by Mario Vargas Llosa

A historical novel taking place in the Dominican Republic depicting the tyrannical rule of Trujillo and its aftermath and the personal life of a lawyer returning to her homeland after a self-imposed 30-year exile.

As per the votes received till 5 pm today, our Book of the Month for June is The Feast of the Goat by Mario Vargas Llosa

2. Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

The story of Florentino and Fermina who fall in love in their youth only for Fermina to leave him later and marry a wealthy doctor. But Florentino waits for her for decades, even until they are too old and her husband dies, to propose to her again.

3. Before We Were Free by Julia Alvarez

A 12-year old girl grapples with the ideas of oppression, resistance, and freedom in a terror-filled Dominican Republic ruled by Trujillo. Most of her relatives have left the country and the remaining family is under surveillance as they are in opposition to the government. She maintains a diary like Anne Frank amid the turmoil.

4. Aunt Julia and the Scriptwriter by Mario Vargas Llosa

A funny story about an 18-year old student who falls in love with a much older divorcee lady. The narrative flits between their love story and the melodramatic episodes of daily soap operas churned out by a crazy scriptwriter running a radio station.

5. Pedro Paramo by Juan Rulfo

A pioneering work of Magical Realism that has influenced many Latin American writers, including Marquez. In search of his father, Juan Preciado enters a ghost town where the living and the dead coexist. The story of the protagonists and the town itself unfolds in an innovative narrative blending reality and memory.

6. Hurricane Season by Fernanda Melchor

A Witch dies in the Mexican village and rumours fly around about the cause of her death. Through the countless exaggerated and unreliable narratives of the villagers unfold the darker story of the village itself rife with violence, poverty, superstition, misogyny, and despair. A highly acclaimed novel published in 2017. 

7. The Aleph by Jorge Luis Borges

A collection of stories where the line between reality and imagination blurs. The narratives are filled with puzzles, philosophical musings and fantastic elements. Where the mundane meets the mystical and anything in the universe can be connected to anything else.

8. The Tunnel by Ernesto Sabato

Sitting in a prison cell, a painter writes about his relationship with a woman he had murdered. A psychological thriller seeking to explore the depths of a disturbed psyche. A novel praised by Albert Camus and Graham Greene.

9. The House of the Spirits - Isabel Allende

Debut novel of Isabel Allende. Told from the perspectives of two different protagonists - Esteban and her granddaughter Elba - the saga spans three generations of the Trueba family, revealing both its triumphs and tragedies. The political and the personal intertwines in the story of secret loves and violent revolution.

Les Miserables

 

Attended this today, was quite interesting to know of Les Misérables by Victor Hugo which is not just a novel of around 2500 pages in three volumes with 365 chapters - one for each day of the year if you like it that way. It's a moral epic. It's about how, even in the darkest of circumstances, hope and humanity can endure. In 2025, it will be 100 years since Malayali acquired the famous work Le Miserable under the name 'Paavamgal'. Sunil P. Ilayidom took us through The Poor: World Life and Malayalam Life in the 100th Anniversary of the first translated work by Nalapat Narayana Menon which was backed by Vallathol for publication. 

LES MISERABLES by Victor Hugo - Collectible Deluxe Special Gift Edition - Leather Bound Hardcover.  It's the Barnes and Noble collectibe edition!

At its heart, Les Misérables follows Jean Valjean, a man imprisoned for 19 years for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his sister’s starving child. After his release, society rejects him — until a kind bishop’s act of mercy inspires Valjean to turn his life around. Habituated he steals and is caught, but Bishop said, it was a gift for him, and tells him, keep your promise to be a good human. It was neither his promise, nor does he respond, but it indeed makes him a good human.  He adopts a new identity and becomes a successful factory owner and mayor.

But his past haunts him: he is relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert, a rigid lawman who believes criminals can never change. Valjean’s path crosses with Fantine, a struggling single mother. After her death, he vows to care for her daughter, Cosette, whom he raises in hiding. As Cosette grows up, she falls in love with Marius, a young revolutionary. Their story unfolds amid social unrest, the June Rebellion of 1832, and the deep moral questions of justice and grace.

The key message is "Always love each other. There is nothing better than love in this world." which Jean Valjean tells Cosette and her husband when he is on his death bed. 

One third of the book is filled with Philosophy and many on the society, around 14 pages cover waterloo war. There are pages on the local pipelines and day to day events. 

The author thought of adding a preface to the book, which he started writing in two parts : God and Soul. Then he cut it down to one powerful sentence which reads as: **“So long as there shall exist, by reason of law and custom, a social condemnation, which, in the face of civilization, artificially creates hells on earth, and complicates a destiny that is divine with human fatality; so long as the three problems of the age—the degradation of man through poverty, the ruin of women through hunger, the crippling of children through lack of light—are not solved; so long as, in certain regions, social asphyxia shall be possible; in other words, and from a still broader point of view, so long as ignorance and misery remain on earth, books like this cannot be useless.”

— Victor Hugo, 1862

Major Themes:

Redemption: Can a person truly change?

Law vs. Mercy: Javert’s obsession with the law vs. Valjean’s compassion.

Poverty & Injustice: The suffering of the poor and marginalized.

Love: Romantic, parental, and sacrificial love.

Les Misérables is not just a novel — it's a moral epic. It's about how, even in the darkest of circumstances, hope and humanity can endure.

Mathrubhumi Book Store @ Kakkanad

 

The long-awaited dream of having a bookstore in Kakkanad became a reality with the inauguration of Mathrubhumi's new bookstore near the old driving test ground, adjacent to the Kakkanad Collectorate, at Civil Lane Bypass road, on April 30, 2025. For book lovers, especially those in nearby areas who have craved such a space during book exchanges or while hunting for meaningful gifts, this was a moment of deep personal joy and fulfillment. The event was not only about books but also about connecting with the literary soul of the region.

Eminent personalities graced the event, adding to its significance. Renowned writer and activist Sarah Joseph stressed the need for public spaces that uphold democratic dialogue and resist social injustice. Priya A.S., acclaimed translator and author, shared insights into the art of literary translation and her work based on Kerala's 2018 floods. Mithun Chittilapilly, businessman and author, spoke about the role of reading and storytelling in leadership and business innovation. Joseph Annamkutty Jose, radio jockey and motivational author, highlighted the transformative power of personal storytelling. He asked the audience to get inside the bookstore and buy a book. He is happy to see someone pick his book, but is sad to see that these days, people click a selfie with it and keep back the book. Akhil Dharmarajan, a rising literary voice, said though he was afraid of public speaking was glad to be in the company of people like Sarah Joseph and Priya and that they recognise and know him.

Mathrubhumi’s initiative reflects the cultural heartbeat of Kakkanad—a region that cherishes letters and literature. This bookstore is more than a commercial space; it is a sanctuary for those who seek comfort in words, they are planning to have authors come and speak on Fridays. We have space in there to sit and read too. It stands as a tribute to a community deeply rooted in literary tradition and yearning for meaningful dialogue.  Immense Gratitude to Team *Mathrubhumi* for this venture and hope the people around will make this venture a success.

#mathrubhumibooks @mathrubhumibooks #CochinBookClub #Bookstore #KakkanadBookStore #BookshopatKakkana

National Language vs. Mother Tongue

 Hindi is less than a few hundred years old. My mother tongue Telugu is well over 2000 years old, possibly as old as Tamil. 

Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Odiya, Bengali, Punjabi, Gujarati, Assamese, Manipuri etc. have their own unique scripts, many ancient and evolving, some recent. 

The above languages have a great history and superb literature dating back to a thousand years or much much more. These languages have also been the vehicle and instrument of social change and development. Moral tales, proverbs, folklore, unique forms of expression. All of them have wonderful fiction.

In the 1960s it was said that one of the best works of fiction in Hindi was the timetable book of the Indian Railways.

Growing up in Hyderabad we learnt to read write and speak Telugu, English, Hindi. Urdu, Marathi and Kannada were not foreign to us in the neighbourhood. Actually when we went to the neighbouring states they spoke to us in our language. In Bangalore they spoke to us in Telugu or Tamil. In Hyderabad, our buses had destinations written in Urdu, Telugu and English. We read them out for those who could not read at all. We knew at least 3 scripts. Some of us 4. I learnt and forgot another four scripts including three of Japanese and Chinese. I also spoke, read, wrote and taught French and German. 

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS THAT WE LEARNT OTHER PEOPLE'S LANGUAGES AND CULTURES. WE DID NOT FORCE THEM TO LEARN OUR OWN. WE VALUED THE OTHER'S LANGUAGE AND CULTURE. AND PARTICIPATED IN EACH OTHER'S CELEBRATIONS.

Language is identity. Language is culture. Language is ideas. Language is one's breath. Language is history. Often Language is Literature, it can be the basis of Art and music. Language is lore. Language is lyric. Language is fable. Language is song. Language is mythology. Language is our connect to the inside. Language is our connect to the outside world. Language creates community. 

In Europe countries are organized on the basis of language. Italy - Italian, Greece - Greek, France - French, England - English, Wales - Welsh etc. 

In India states are organized on the basis of language. And minority languages are protected at the same time.

Of course, Language can also lead to hatred and fanaticism. To parochialism. Especially when you speak only one language. Or think that yours is superior. 

Official is not the same as National. Apart from the 15 on the Indian currency, there are at least 500 more, some with a script, some without. What would unite all the language groups would be the common thread of freedom and human rights and common aspirations. Shared hope, common experiences. Sense of solidarity and belongingness.

Now, the first thing any sincere lover of a language does is learn the swear words in the lingo. When you know many languages you know many swear words.

If single-language-speakers try to impose their language on those of us who are multi cultural and broad minded, you will soon find out how well we learnt those special words in several languages.

Struggling with Drugs - Help

 

Helping someone struggling with drug use who wants to recover is a critical and sensitive process. Here's a practical, compassionate approach:

1. Create a Safe, Non-Judgmental Environment

Listen without criticizing or lecturing.

Assure them you’re there to help, not to shame.

Avoid ultimatums unless safety demands it.

2. Encourage Professional Help

Medical detox may be needed if physical dependence is present.

Suggest seeing a therapist, counselor, or addiction specialist.

Help research rehab centers (inpatient or outpatient, depending on severity).

3. Provide Emotional and Practical Support

Offer to attend appointments or group meetings with them (e.g., NA, AA).

Help them structure their time with positive, sober activities.

Encourage a healthy routine—good sleep, food, and exercise help recovery.

4. Avoid Enabling Behaviors

Don’t cover up their problems, give money for drugs, or shield them from consequences.

Instead, guide them to take responsibility while showing care.

5. Stay Educated and Patient

Learn about addiction as a medical and psychological issue, not a moral failing.

Understand that relapse can happen—it doesn’t mean failure.

Celebrate small victories to build momentum.

6. Consider Support Groups (for you and them)

Al-Anon or Nar-Anon for family and friends.

Peer support groups can give them community and accountability.

7. Set Boundaries

Protect your mental health. It's okay to set limits on what you can and can’t do.

Support Groups for Individuals Struggling with Addiction

1. Narcotics Anonymous (NA India)

Focus: Peer support for individuals recovering from drug addiction.

Format: 12-step program, similar to AA.

Meetings: Available in major cities and online.

Website: www.naindia.org

2. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA India)

Focus: Alcohol addiction.

Meetings: In-person and virtual groups across India.

Website: www.aagsoindia.org

3. SMART Recovery India

Focus: Science-based, self-help program for addiction recovery (alcohol, drugs, gambling).

Approach: CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) tools, not spiritual/religious.

Website: www.smartrecoveryindia.org

👪 Support for Families and Friends

4. Al-Anon India

Focus: For families and friends of alcoholics.

Format: 12-step, similar to AA, focused on healing and boundaries.

Website: al-anon.org (global, but has Indian groups too)

5. Nar-Anon

Focus: Family and friends of drug addicts.

Website: www.nar-anon.org (international with some India chapters)

🏥 Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers with Group Programs

6. NIMHANS (Bangalore)

Premier mental health and addiction treatment hospital.

Offers both clinical treatment and group therapy sessions.

Website: www.nimhans.ac.in

7. TTC (T.T. Ranganathan Clinical Research Foundation – Chennai)

Offers detox, rehab, counseling, and aftercare groups.

Website: www.ttcrf.org

🕊️ Online & Phone Support (Pan-India)

iCall (TISS): Free, confidential counseling (mental health, addiction, crisis).

Website: www.icallhelpline.org

Helpline: +91 9152987821

AASRA: Suicide prevention & emotional support; helpful for those in crisis due to addiction.

Website: www.aasra.info

Helpline: +91 98204 66726

Adi Shankaracharya - Kalady

Adi Shankaracharya was instrumental in reconciling various sects in the bygone days. He travelled all over India to help restore the study of the Vedas. He established/popularised  the Advaita Vedanta school of thought. 

For Shankaracharya, Jnana Yoga—the pursuit of knowledge—was the key to liberation. He emphasized self-inquiry and contemplation as tools to remove ignorance (Avidya). 

The word Shankaracharya is composed of two parts, Shankara and Acharya. Acharya is a Sanskrit word meaning "teacher", so Shankaracharya means "teacher of the way of Shankara

Getting Started With Stock Markets

 Thanks a ton to Rashmi for getting me interested and involved into the world of stock markets. My real interest began when I was in my 10th standard. Still remember the day I got the magazine  'Dalal Street' from library and another borrower mocked saying 'what would a girl this age Understand from this'?

Soon after Harshad Mehta's scam broke out, and there was a mindset shift. For me stock market equalled to speculation, until  I read the book 'The Intelligent Investor'. 

But then I felt I was too old to start stock market trading.  Never took a demat account until now, though I had filled manual application forms years before. Then came the news of Himalayan Swami. My stock market investing dreams took a back burner after reading 'The Market Mafia' by Palak Shah.

https://arunoday.blogspot.com/2022/02/the-market-mafia-palak-shah.html?m=1

Investing in stocks means buying shares of ownership in a company. When you buy a stock, you become a shareholder, and you can earn money if the company does well (through price appreciation or dividends).

 
The key is to set your goals before you begin:

Why are you investing? (e.g., wealth building, retirement, saving for a house)

Time horizon – Are you investing for the short term (1-3 years) or long term (5+ years)?

Risk tolerance – How much fluctuation in value can you emotionally and financially handle?

 Know the basics:

Stock Exchange – Where stocks are bought/sold (e.g., NSE/BSE in India, NYSE/NASDAQ in the U.S.).

Broker – You need a broker to trade stocks. Popular ones: Zerodha, Upstox, Groww, Robinhood.

Demat Account – Holds your shares digitally.

Trading Account – Used to buy/sell shares.

Sensex and Nifty - Indexs of BSE and NSE

Key Stock Market Terms:

Equity – Ownership in a company.

IPO – When a company first sells its shares to the public.

Market Capitalization – Company size based on stock price × number of shares.

Dividends – Profits shared with shareholders.

Bull Market – Market going up.

Bear Market – Market going down.

 Types of Stock Investing:

Long-term investing – Holding stocks for years.

Short-term trading – Buying/selling based on price movements.

Dividend investing – Focusing on stocks that pay regular dividends.

Index investing – Investing in index funds (like Nifty 50 or S&P 500).

 Do Your Research, Look into:

Company financials – Revenue, profits, debts.

Industry trends – Is the sector growing?

Valuation metrics – P/E ratio, EPS, book value.

News & leadership – Management quality, market reputation.

Diversify Your Portfolio. Don’t put all your money in one stock. Spread it across:

Different sectors (Tech, Pharma, FMCG, etc.)

Different sizes (Large cap, mid cap, small cap)

Index funds or ETFs (for automatic diversification)

Start with Small Amounts:

Use a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) to invest regularly.

Even ₹500 or $10 monthly in an index fund is a great start.

Avoid FOMO – don’t chase trends blindly.

Stay Informed, Stay Calm

Follow market news from trusted sources (Moneycontrol, ET, Bloomberg).

Ignore short-term noise.

Don’t panic during downturns—markets recover over time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Blindly following tips on social media.

Timing the market.

Not doing your own research.

Lack of diversification.

Overtrading or emotional trading.

Recommended Resources:

Books:

The Intelligent Investor – Benjamin Graham

One Up on Wall Street – Peter Lynch

Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits – Philip Fisher

Apps/Websites:

Groww, Zerodha Varsity, Yahoo Finance, Screener.in

Be patient—wealth builds over time.

Learn consistently.

Review and rebalance your portfolio yearly.

Think long-term.

Getting started with stock market investing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are the basic requisites you’ll need:

 1. A PAN Card (India-specific)

Required for opening an investment account and for tax purposes.

2. A Bank Account

Used to transfer funds in and out of your trading or demat account.

3. A Demat Account
This is where your stocks are held in electronic form.

You can open one with brokers like Zerodha, Groww, Upstox, ICICI Direct, etc.

4. A Trading Account
Used to place buy/sell orders in the stock market. Usually comes bundled with the demat account.

5. KYC Documents
Proof of identity, address, income (sometimes), and a photograph.

Required to comply with SEBI regulations.

 6. Basic Knowledge of Markets
Understand how stocks, mutual funds, IPOs, indices, etc. work.

Know the difference between investing vs. trading.

7. Investment Goals
Clarify if you’re investing for long-term wealth, short-term gains, retirement, etc.

This affects the type of stocks or funds you’ll invest in.

8. Risk Appetite
Understand how much risk you're comfortable with.

Stocks are high-risk, high-return; some funds or bonds are safer.

9. Capital to Invest

Even small amounts (₹100–₹500) can get you started with fractional shares or mutual funds.

10. Discipline & Patience
Stock investing requires consistency, not daily action.

Emotional control is key during market ups and downs.

3 Best Books on Stock Market

 

1. The Intelligent Investor – Benjamin Graham
Theme: Value investing and protecting capital
Key Ideas:
Investing vs. Speculating: Investors analyze and seek value; speculators chase trends and tips.

Margin of Safety: Buy stocks when they’re priced well below their intrinsic value—this gives you a cushion if things go wrong.

Mr. Market Metaphor: Picture the market as an emotional business partner offering you stock prices daily—sometimes he’s optimistic, sometimes fearful. Be rational, not reactive.

Defensive vs. Enterprising Investor: Defensive investors want simplicity and safety (index funds, blue-chip stocks), while enterprising investors research deeply to find undervalued gems.

Big Takeaway:
Focus on long-term value, avoid emotional decisions, and always seek a margin of safety when investing.

 This is one book, which made me feel investing is not speculation. The above synopsis is also courtesy Chat GPT.

2. One Up on Wall Street – Peter Lynch

Theme: How everyday investors can beat professionals

Key Ideas:
"Invest in what you know": Pay attention to companies, products, and trends you encounter in daily life—they can be early investment opportunities.

Categories of Stocks: Lynch classifies stocks into six types—slow growers, stalwarts, fast growers, cyclicals, turnarounds, and asset plays. Know what you're buying.

Do Your Homework: Research a company’s fundamentals: profits, debt, earnings growth, and business model.

Tenbaggers: These are stocks that grow 10x in value. Identifying them early (often from everyday observations) can be incredibly rewarding.

Big Takeaway:
Use your common sense and personal experience to find winning stocks—then do deep research before investing.

3. Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits – Philip Fisher

Theme: Growth investing through understanding business quality

Key Ideas:
Scuttlebutt Method: Learn about companies by talking to employees, customers, suppliers—get the real-world view.

15 Points to Look for in a Company: Includes factors like capable management, good R&D, sales growth, profit margins, and long-term outlook.

Buy Great Companies & Hold: Look for high-quality businesses and hold them for years, even decades.

Focus on Management Quality: A company’s leadership is as important as its financials.

Big Takeaway:
Invest in outstanding companies with long-term growth potential and competent management, then hold patiently.

Goods and Service Tax (GST)

 Module 1 - 19 pages: Background of GST And Constitutional Amendment 

• In this course, we shall be covering the constitutional background of GST,

key definitions and concepts under GST, Levy, Time of Supply, Place of

Supply, Input tax credit, Valuation, Registration, Returns, Payments,

Refund, Assessment, Appellate proceedings, Offences and Penalties, etc. 

• The objective of the course is to impart basic understanding of GST which

will be useful to professionals from finance or tax background for

compliance and record keeping required under GST.

In the current chapter, we will be covering the brief background behind introduction of GST and

constitutional background. The list of the key topic covered is summarized below :-

‒ What is Indirect Tax?

‒ Taxes subsumed under GST

‒ Why GST was introduced

‒ Benefits of GST

‒ Roadmap of GST Implementation

‒ Constitutional Background

‒ Procedure for Amendment in GST law

‒ Overview of GST legislation

‒ Rate Structure in GST Regime

‒ Key Stake Holders

‒ GST Council and its Role

‒ Exemption Carried forward from Earlier Tax regime

• Indirect taxes are the taxes levied on goods or services supplied by a person and collected from buyers.

• The tax is basically levied on the seller of the goods or the provider of the services

• The seller/ provider of services passes tax burden to the end consumer and therefore ultimately it is the end consumer who bears this in the form of Indirect Tax

• For instance, Goods and services tax means tax on supply of goods, or services or both except taxes on the supply of the alcoholic liquor for human consumption. GST on petrol, diesel and related products will be notified at later date.

Why GST?

• Cascading effect of taxation
• Multiple taxable events
• Double taxation of a transaction as both goods and Service
• Blocked credits
• Evolving laws Frequent changes

Roadmap:

GST – The Constitution of India has been amended by the Constitution (101st Amendment ) Act, 2016 for this purpose. Constitutional framework Article 246A - Union and States empowered to enact laws in relation to GST. The powers to make laws for inter-state supplies is exclusive to Union. Article 269A provides for making law in relation to inter-state supply of goods and services.

Article 269A provides for making law in relation to inter-state supply of goods and services.

Article 279A provides for constitution of GST Council.

174 Sections, rules, clarifications, circulars. 

Present GST Tax Rate Structure is as follows**Additionally, compensation cess is levied for specified products.

Nil Rated:- Salt, Indian National Flag, duty credit scrips, etc.

5%:- Cream, Paneer, natural honey, etc.

12% :- Butter, candles, bicycles, contact lenses, etc.

18% :- Services like IT, telecom services, etc.

28% :- Pan Masala, Cigars, Cement, yachts, lottery, etc.

The process for creating GST Council started in India when the Constitution (One Hundred and Twentysecond Amendment) Bill 2016. GST Council was formed with Union Finance Minister as Chairperson, The

Union Minister or Ministers of State in-charge of Revenue or Finance for the following role:

Central or State Government grant exemptions in public interest which may be absolute or conditional

exemption. The illustrative list of exemption in earlier tax regime which were carried forward by the law maker in GST law as well are summarized below:

Type of Goods and Services Exempt under/Pre GST Regime/ Exempt under Post/ GST Regime

1. Agriculture products like fruits and vegetables, etc. Yes Yes

2. Services by way of admission to a museum, national park, wildlife

sanctuary, tiger reserve or zoo Yes Yes

3. Service provided by arbitral tribunal to specified entities Yes Yes

4. Services by a veterinary clinic in relation to health care of animals

or birds Yes Yes

5. Funeral Services Yes Yes

Module 2: Important Definitions. 11 Pages. 

1. Understand some definitions:

1. 2(52) Goods cover all (1) movable property (2)  but not money and securities (3) include actionable claims like crops attached to land not severed (GST will be applicable - you might have exemption)
2. 2(102) Services (1) anything other than goods (2) exchange of money (3) facilitating or arranging transaction in securities. 
3. 2(31) Consideration - (1) Payment made or to be made by money or otherwise even grants (2) Advance deposit only if there is a consideration
4. 2(17) Business (1) any trade, commerce, manufacture (2)  provision by club, association, society  (3) admission to premises
5. Composite supply - Bundled. One principle umbrella and multiple others. 
6. Mixed supply 2(74) - Single price - different products with different GST rate - whatever the highest rate that would be applicable on other supplies. Example: Mobile with charger, earphone and other accessories (BOGIF - Buy one get one free will not fall in either 5 or 6)
7. Continuous supply of Goods and another for Continuous supply of Services.
8. Taxable and Non Taxable supply 2(18) and 2(78) Not covered example petroleum, liquor, Schedule 3. 
9. Works contract - Immovable property
10. Recipient 2(39) - making payment, if not taking delivery or service
11. Supplier 2(105) - supplying goods/services or agent
12. Exempt Supplier 2(47) - Supply of any goods or services or both which attracts nil rate of tax, Wholly exempt from tax under section 11, or under section 6 of the IGST Act, Includes non-taxable supply
13. Reverse Charge Section 2{98}: Liability of tax payable by recipient of notified goods or services
14. Aggregate Turnover Section 2{6}: Very important definition - as based on it it would depend if you need to take registration? 
1.  Aggregate value of all taxable supplies (excluding reverse charge)
2.  Exempt supplies
3. Exports of goods/ services
4. Inter-state supplies for same PAN 
15. Tax Period Section 2{106}: Period for which the return is required to be furnished; Monthly, quarterly, annual returns are to be files. 

Module 3: Concept of supply under GST. 7 Pages.

Pre GST event: Exercise - taxable event was manufacture; VAT - Sale; Service - Event

All these events combined and is called Supply. 

8 limbs and 2 provisio. 

1. Sale - ownership change
2. Transfer  - no change in ownership; goods moving from one branch to other
3. Barter 
4. Exchange
5. License
6. Rental
7. Lease
8. Disposal - Depreciated assets

For consideration, in the course of business. 

Proviso:

1. Import of service
2. Schedule 1 items - supply without consideration. 

Supply is an inclusive definition. 

Supply - Schedule 1

Supply - Schedule 11

Goods:

Activities to be treated as supply of goods

• Transfer of title in goods
• Transfer of title where property will pass at future date
• Goods cease to form part of business assets
• Transfer of assets where person ceases to be a taxable person
• (except where as a going concern or by a personal representative)
• Supply of goods by unincorporated association to its member

Supply of Services:

 

Supply- Schedule III: Supply of neither goods nor services

Sec. 7(2)(b) Such activities or transactions undertaken by

• Central government

• State government

• Any local authority

where they are engaged as public authorities. (as may be notified)

Module 4: Registration under GST 14 pages

Registration is the prerequisite for doing a business, but not all need to. Section 22 to Section 30 discuss registration. 

If business in 15 states - need registration in all the states

Turnover:  

Supplier of Goods

• Aggregate turnover > 40 lakhs (intra state turnover)
• Aggregate turnover >10 lakhs (intra state turnover for suppliers located in special category states*) 

Supplier of services

• Aggregate turnover > 20 lakhs (inter or intra state turnover)
• Aggregate turnover >10 lakhs (turnover for suppliers located in special category states*) 

Not liable for registration

1. Exclusive exempt supplier of goods or service

2. Where recipient is liable to pay tax under RCM

3. Certain taxpayers who are making supplies through e-commerce operator.

“Aggregate Turnover" means aggregate value of all taxable supplies (excluding value of inward supplies on which tax is

payable on reverse charge mechanism, exempt supplies, export of goods or services or both Inter-state supplies of

persons having the same PAN (to be computed on all India basis) but excludes central tax, state tax, union territory tax,

integrated tax and cess and includes all supplies made by the taxable person, whether on own account or made on behalf of all his principals

Voluntary registration

A person who is not liable for registration may still choose to obtain voluntary registration, all provisions of the Act as are applicable to a registered person, shall apply to such voluntary registered person. Benefits of Voluntary registration:

• Availing and passing on Input tax credit
• Good Rating under GST may help in increasing the scale of operations and adding more customers
• Renting premises, availing loans from banks and other such business requirements will become easier for businesses that are registered

Compulsory registration

Point 8 certain people might get exemption. 

Time limit and Process of Registration

Time limit for registration

• Within 30 days from the date on which the person becomes liable

• A casual taxable person or a non-resident taxable person shall apply for registration at least 5 days prior to the commencement of business

Process of registration

• Application of registration filed by the taxable person along with Aadhar authentication

• Proper officer on receipt of application shall examine the details and if details are found in order, approve the same within seven working days

• If the application submitted is found to be deficient, communication must be made in Form REG-03 within 7 working days from date of submission of application

• Reply to the said notice shall be made in Form REG-04 within a period of 7 days from date of receipt of notice

• Where application is not approved by the officer within the due time limit, application for registration shall be deemed to have been approved.

Composition Scheme

• Composition dealer is not allowed to collect outward tax from customers 
• Not allowed to avail Input tax credit
• Required to pay tax through GST CMP-08 quarterly and furnish GSTR-4 and GSTR-9A annually
• Required to issue Bill of Supply instead of Tax Invoice

Composition scheme – Sec. 10

10(1) r/w 10(2)

Composition scheme - I

• Aggregate Turnover in preceding financial year ≤150lacs (75 lacs for specified states)

• Services along with goods can be supplied up to 10% of turnover in state (preceding financial year) or 5 lakh rupees, whichever is higher.

• Tax rate – Refer Annexure A

• Liable to pay tax under

reverse charge u/s 9(3) and

9(4) at applicable rates

10(2A)

Composition scheme - II

• Applicable for suppliers not eligible to pay tax under 10(1) r/w 10(2)

• Aggregate Turnover (preceding financial year) not exceeding 50 lacs

• Tax rate – 6% for suppliers opting or said scheme

• Liable to pay tax under reverse charge u/s 9(3) and 9(4) at applicable rates

Eligibility

• Not engaged in making any supply of goods or services which are not leviable to GST

• Not engaged in making any interState outward supplies

• Not engaged in making any supply through an electronic commerce operator required to comply with sec 52

• Not a manufacturer as may be notified by the Government

• Neither a casual taxable person nor a non-resident taxable person

10(1) r/w 10(2)

Composition scheme - I

• Aggregate Turnover in preceding financial year ≤150 lacs (75 lacs for specified states)

• Services along with goods can be supplied up to 10% of turnover in state (preceding financial year) or 5 lakh rupees, whichever is higher.

• Tax rate – Refer Annexure A

• Liable to pay tax under reverse charge u/s 9(3) and 9(4) at applicable rates

10(2A)

Composition scheme - II

• Applicable for suppliers not eligible to pay tax under 10(1) r/w 10(2)

• Aggregate Turnover (preceding financial year) not exceeding 50 lacs

• Tax rate – 6% for suppliers opting for said scheme

• Liable to pay tax under reverse charge u/s 9(3) and 9(4) at applicable rates

Eligibility

• Not engaged in making any supply of goods or services which are not leviable to GST

• Not engaged in making any interState outward supplies

• Not engaged in making any supply of services through an electronic commerce operator required to comply with sec 52

• Not a manufacturer as may be notified by the Government

• Neither a casual taxable person nor a non-resident taxable person

Documents needed:

Cancellation of registration

Revocation of cancellation of registration

• Application for revocation: Any registered person whose registration is cancelled by the

proper officer on his own motion, may apply to such officer for revocation of cancellation of

registration in such manner, within such time and subject to such conditions and

restrictions, as may be prescribed.

• Acceptance or Rejection of application by proper officer: The proper officer may in

such manner and such period as may prescribed, by order, either revoke cancellation of

registration or reject the application

Provided that application for revocation of cancellation of registration shall not be rejected

unless the applicant has been given an opportunity of being heard.

Module 5 PPT 35 Concept of Place of Supply under GST. 

Place and location determine nature of supply i.e. interstate or intra state. 

Any interstate supply IGST will be applicable and intra state it will be, CGST or SGST or UTGST depeding on the location.

Relevance of Place of Supply (POS)

• POS has been defined under IGST Act

• POS along with location of supplier determines nature of supply i.e. whether supply is inter-state or intra state

Location of recipient and supplier has been defined under GST basis place of business .

• Specific cases have been provided in law wherein levy of GST has been pre-determined. In case of supply from DTA to SEZ, IGST would be levied and same is always treated as an inter-state transaction. Similarly, imports of goods and services are inter-state supplies.

Place of Supply (POS) of goods in other miscellaneous cases:

“export of goods” with its grammatical variations and cognate expressions, means taking goods out of India to a place outside India [Section 2(5) of the IGST Act,2017]

Nature of Transaction Place of Supply

Goods supplied on board a conveyance [Sec. 10(1)(e)] Location where goods are taken on board

Import into India [Sec. 11(1)] Location of importer

Export from India [Sec. 11(2)] Location outside India

Place of Supply (POS) of goods: Bill to – Ship to (Out of India)

Nature of Transaction Understanding Place of Supply

Bill to in India –Ship to out of India

[Sec. 10(1)(b)]

• Direction given by Indian (Bill to) party

• Movement of goods outside India results transaction

into Export for the bill to party

• Principal place of business of person

giving the direction

Bill to out of India – Ship to in

India

[Sec. 10(1)(b)]

• Movement is within India, thus not export of goods

• Shipped to location not relevant for determining

place of supply

• Location outside India since the

person giving the instruction is

outside India. In such a case IGST

would be charged

Place of Supply of Services

Place of Supply (POS) of services where both supplier and recipient are located in India

POS of services shall be guided by general rule [Sec. 12(1)] as mentioned below (except in case of specific services):

 

Transaction: Supply of restaurant and catering services, personal grooming, fitness, beauty treatment, health service including cosmetic and plastic surgery [Sec. 12(4)]

Place of supply: Location where services are actually performed

(Not all data included)

Module 6: Time and Value of Supply PPT: 12

Time is relevant, because Tax is applicable from the time of supply on the value of supply. 

Module 7: Input Tax Credit: PPT 12

Very important topic = Cash. 

It can be utilised against output tax credit. 

Input Tax under GST

Definition Sec. 2(62) - • CGST/ SGST/ IGST/ UTGST charged on supply of goods or

services

Inclusion Sec. 2(62)

• IGST on imports

• CGST/ IGST/ SGST/ UTGST paid under reverse-charge

Exclusion • Tax paid under composition levy

Time-limit Sec. 16(4): • Earliest of filing return for September* following end of the financial year or annual return

**Under finance bill 2022, an amendment has been proposed to substitute ‘due date of filing return for September’ with ’30 November’

following end of the FY. This amendment will be applicable from such date as may be appointed by a notification

First and formost condition is that the invoice has to be raised. 

Other Conditions:

• Invoice, debit note, self invoice, ISD invoice/credit note and bill of entry or other document prescribed in Custom Act,1962 can be used.
• Receiver of ITC can avail credit in respect of invoices and debit notes which have been furnished by supplier in GSTR-1/ IFF and appearing in GSTR-2B
• Banking company have an option to comply with sec. 17(2) i.e. either to reverse the credit pertains to exempt supply for example interest received or may claim 50% of ITC eligible.
• Rule 41 of CGST Rules, 2017 have also provided provision for transfer of credit in case of sale, merger, de-merger, amalgamation, lease or transfer of business.

ITC – Goods sent for Job work

Job worker is not the principal, he is just doing on behalf of principle. 

Note: - Above conditions does not applies to moulds and dies, jigs and fixtures, or tools sent out to a job worker for job work.

Input: has to be return within one year. Maintain books of accounts. 

Capital Goods: Return period of capital goods is 3 years. 

This is not applicable for liquor and petroleum  and its products as they are covered separately by state. 

Formula to be applied on a monthly and yearly basis, 

keep knocking of the credit in this order. 

Mechanism to utilise to knock of the credits. 

Thumb rule - IGST must be fully utilised before utilising the other. 

Module 8: Input Service Distributor: PPT 8

Input Service Distributor means an office of a supplier which receives tax invoices towards the receipt of input services and distributes credit of GST paid to its branch offices.

Points for Consideration:

Invoice should contain:

• Name, address, GSTIN of ISD and recepient
• A consecutive serial number
• Date of issue
• Amount of credit distributed
• Signature authorised representative

ISD shall only deal with input services. It cannot keep credits in its own books. 

Module 9:  Job Work and TDS/TCS - Page 10

Job work is supply of service. 

• Ownership of goods belongs to Principal andtreatment or process on such goods are undertaken by job worker.

• As per Schedule II of CGST Act, “Any treatment or process which is applied to another person's goods is a supply of services.” Hence, Job work is a supply of Service.

• The principal is allowed to avail credit on the goods directly sent to the job worker.

Job work - Procedure:

Inputs or capital goods can be sent by a principal to job worker without payment of tax under a Delivery Challan along with e-way bill, if applicable.

• Inputs or capital goods can be supplied from business premises of unregistered job worker if principal has added it as additional place of business.

Job Work – Other Provisions

• Principal may on intimation, send and bring back goods from “Job Worker” to any of his place of business without payment of tax provided the goods are returned within the prescribed time limit as summarized below:

• Type                                                                                    me Limit

1. Inputs (whether completed or otherwise) - 1 year
2. Capital Goods (other than moulds and dies, jigs and fixtures, or tools) - 3 Year

• If Inputs or Capital Goods (other than other than moulds and dies, jigs and fixtures, or tools) are not returned

within prescribed time limit, it shall be considered as deemed supply on the date when such goods were

received by the job worker.

• Waste and scrap generated during job work may be supplied on payment of tax by job worker, if job worker is

registered or by principal, if job worker is unregistered.

Tax Deducted at Source (TDS)

Person required to deduct TDS

• Department / Establishment of Central Government /State Government

• Local Authority

• Government Agencies

• Other person notified by the government

Transaction Value • Where total value of such supply of goods and / or services under acontract exceeds INR 2.5 lakhs.

• Taxable value of supply excluding GST indicated in invoice needs to be

considered for deduction.

Rate • 1% CGST + 1% SGST [2% in case of IGST] of payment made or credited

to the supplier

Non-Applicability of TDS

• If location of supplier and place of supply is in a state different from the

state of registration of the recipient

Time Limit of Payment • 10th day of the succeeding month in which deduction has been made

Interest for delayed

payment

• Interest at the rate notified, not exceeding 18% to be paid

Certificate • Certificate in Form GSTR-7A will be made available in GST portal once

return is filed

Excess / Erroneous Deposit

• Refund shall be according to Section 54

• No refund to deductor if the amount has been credited to electronic cash ledger of the deductee

Claim in Electronic Cash Ledger by Deductee

• Deductee shall claim the credit in his electronic cash ledger of the amount of deduction made by the deductor

Tax Collected at Source (TCS)

Person required to

collect TCS

• E-commerce operator (not agent) shall collect TCS on taxable supplies made

through it by other supplier, where consideration with respect to such

supplies is to be collected by the operator

Rate • 0.5% CGST + 0.5% SGST [1% IGST] of net value of taxable supplies made

through it

Net Value of Taxable

Supplies

• Aggregate value of taxable supplies of goods and/or services made through

e-commerce operator excluding supplies notified under Section 9(5) of CGST

Act and value of taxable supplies returned

Time Limit of Payment • 10th day of the succeeding month in which collection has been made

Interest for delayed

payment

• Interest at the rate notified, not exceeding 18% to be paid

Furnishing of Statement • Monthly- on or before 10th of succeeding month in Form GSTR-8

• Annually- on or before 31st December following the end of the financial year

• Rectification- before due date of filing of return for the month of September

following the end of the financial year or actual date for furnishing of the

relevant annual statement, whichever is earlier

Claim in Electronic

Cash Ledger

• Collectee shall claim the credit in his electronic cash ledger of the amount

of tax collected by the collector

Module 10: Payment of Tax under the GST Law PPT 15 pages.

Introduction

Format of Liability Register, Electronic Credit Ledger and Electronic Cash Register

• Payment of tax is to be made on or before 20th of succeeding month.

• A unique identification number shall be generated for every debit/credit made in electronic liability register, electronic credit

register and electronic cash register.

• Every taxable person shall discharge his tax and other dues under this Act in the following order:

o Self-assessed tax and other dues related to previous tax periods

o Self-assessed tax and other dues related to current tax period

o Any other amount/demand payable under section 73 or section 74

• Mode of Payments are summarized below:

1. Internet banking
2. Credit Card or Debit card
3. NEFT/RTGS
4. Over the counter (OTC)
5. OIDAR Services - international money transfer through Society for Worldwide Internet banking

Electronic Liability Register

Applicability • This register is applicable for every person liable to pay tax, interest, penalty, late fee or any other amount

Form • GST PMT-01

Items to be Debited

• Amount of tax, interest, late fees or any other amount payable as per return

• Amount of tax, interest or any other amount payable as determined by proper officer

• Amount of tax & interest payable due to mismatch under section 42 & section 43

• Amount of interest that may accrue from time to time

Payment made to be credited • Every payment has to be made either from electronic cash ledger or electronic credit ledger

Miscellaneous

• Amount of demand debited shall stand reduced to the extent relief given by proper officer or appellate tribunal or court by way of credit in register

• Amount of penalty imposed or liable to be imposed shall stand reduced to the extent of payment made of tax interest or penalty by way of credit in register

Discrepancy

• If the registered person notices any discrepancy in the register, communicate the same to the officer exercising jurisdiction in

Form GST PMT-04

Electronic Credit Register

Applicability • This register is applicable for every registered person eligible to take ITC

Form • GST PMT-02

Items to be Debited

• Amount of liability discharge through input tax credit

• Amount of refund claimed, if any

Items will be Credited • Eligible input tax credit

Miscellaneous • If the amount of refund claimed is rejected, amount debited earlier shall be re-credited to electronic credit ledger

Discrepancy

• If the registered person notices any discrepancy in the register, communicate the same to the officer exercising jurisdiction in

Form GST PMT-04

These registers are auto populated and no manual intervention is allowed. 

Electronic Cash Register

Applicability • This register is applicable for every person liable to pay tax, interest, penalty, late fee or any other amount

Form • GST PMT-05

Items to be Debited • Amount of liability discharged through this register

Items to be Credited • Deposit made through Internet banking, credit/debit card,

NEFT, RTGS & OTC

Miscellaneous

• Any payment made in this register shall be made after generating challan in Form GST PMT-06 and his challan will be valid for 15 days.

• Where payment is made by way of NEFT/RTGS, mandate form will be generated and that mandate form shall be submitted to the bank from where payment is made and this mandate form shall be valid for 15 days.

• On successful credit of the amount to the account of the Govt., CIN will be generated by collecting bank

• On receipt of CIN, amount deposited shall be reflected in the electronic cash ledger of the concerned person

• In case any refund is claimed from this register, refund amount shall be debited in this register. If the refund claim made is rejected by proper officer, amount to the extent of rejection shall be credited to this register

Discrepancy

• If the payment amount is debited but no CIN has been generated, registered person shall communicate in Form GST PMT – 07 through the common portal to the bank or electronic gateway through which deposit was initiated

• If the registered person notices any discrepancy in the register, registered person shall communicate the same to the officer exercising jurisdiction in Form GST PMT-04

Format of Challan

Format of GST PMT-09

With effect from 1st January 2020, CBIC has inserted section 49(10), as per which Tax Payers are eligible to transfer the fund available in cash ledger balance of any Tax Head such as CGST, SGST & IGST to other Head such as SGST or IGST, CGST or IGST and CGST or SGST via filing of GST PMT-09.

Module 11: Documents prescribed under the GST law 18 pages.

Tax Invoice

Section 31 of CGST Act

• Supply by a registered taxable person under GST is to be made under a cover of “Tax invoice”

• “Tax invoice” is to be issued before or at the time of removal of goods in case of supply of goods

whereas it can be issued within 30 days of completion of services in case of supply of services

• For supply of goods, “Tax invoice” is to be issued in triplicate

• For supply services, “Tax invoice” is to be issued in duplicate

In case of continuous supply of goods, where successive statements of accounts or successive payments are involved, the invoice shall be issued before or at the time each such statement is issued or, as the case may be, each such payment is received.

In case of continuous supply of services, where the due date of payment is ascertainable, the invoice shall be issued on or before the due date of payment otherwise receipt of payment. In case, payment is linked to the completion of an event, the invoice shall be issued on or before the date of completion of that event.

E-invoicing - Overview

To automatically create invoice and curb tax evasion. 

Bill of Supply

• A registered person supplying exempted goods/services or

• Paying tax under composition scheme

Payment voucher, Receipt voucher, Refund voucher

Payment voucher : A registered person liable to pay tax in cases of supplies from unregistered vendor/ supplies that attract tax liability on RCM basis and At the time of making payment to supplier

Reciept voucher : A registered person receiving advance payment with respect to any supply of goods/services

Refund voucher :  A registered person received payment in advance, but no subsequent supply made, and no tax invoice issued.

Credit Notes and Debit Notes/Supplementary Invoices - Section 34 of CGST act.

ISD Invoices: • An input service distributor issues ISD invoices to distribute the GST ITC that pertains to different GSTIN having the same

PAN

Delivery Challan: Supply of liquid gas where the quantity at the time of removal is

not known

• Transportation of goods for job work

• Transportation of goods for reasons other than by way of supply

Tax Invoice in special cases are:

Supplier/Supply Document Requirement 

Insurer or a banking company or a financial institution, including a non-banking

financial company

Consolidated tax invoice for supply made during themonth /any other document in lieu thereof

• Serial no. is not mandatory

• Address of the recipient not mandatory

• Signature of supplier is not mandatory

• Can be issued physically or electronically

• Other information as mentioned under rule 46 is required

Goods transport agency (GTA) Tax invoice or any other document in lieu thereof

• Gross weight of the consignment

• Name of the consigner and the consignee

• Registration number of goods carriage

• Details of goods transported

• Details of place of origin and destination

• GSTIN of the person liable for paying tax whether as consigner, consignee or goods transport agency, and

• Other information as mentioned under rule 46.

Passenger transportation service

Tax invoice • Ticket in any form, by whatever name called

• Serially number is not mandatory

• Address of the recipient of service is not mandatory

• Signature of supplier is not mandatory

• Containing other information as mentioned under rule 46.

Admission to exhibition of cinematograph films in multiplex screens

An electronic ticket • Details of the recipient of service is not mandatory

• Other information as mentioned under rule 46.

Module 12: Accounts and Records Page 7

Manner, period and place to be maintained. 

Accounts and records to be maintained by every registered person

• production or manufacture of goods;

• inward and outward supply of goods or services or both;

• stock of goods;

• input tax credit availed/claimed;

• output tax payable and paid;

• goods or services imported or exported

• payment of tax on reverse charge along with the relevant documents

• advances received, paid and adjustments made thereto

• names and complete addresses of suppliers/recipients and

• such other particulars as may be prescribed

Records prescribed for Specified Cases

Supplier other than composition tax payer

• Accounts of stock in respect of goods received and supplied by him, and such accounts shall contain particulars of

opening balance , receipt, supply, goods lost, stolen, destroyed and balance of stock

• Account of tax payable, paid , input tax credit claimed

Agent

• Particulars of authorization received from principal for supply of goods on behalf of such principal

• Particulars including description, value and quantity of goods or services supplied and received on behalf of principal

• Details of accounts furnished to every principal and tax paid on receipts or supply.

Manufacturer Monthly production accounts showing quantitative details of raw materials or services used in the manufacture and quantitative

details of goods so manufactured including waste thereof.

Service provider Maintain accounts showing quantitative details of goods used in the provision of services, details of input service utilized and

services supplied.

Person executing works contract

• The names and addresses of the persons on whose behalf the works contract is executed.

• Description, value and quantity of goods or services received and utilized for execution.

• Details of payment received

• The names and addresses of the suppliers from whom he received goods or services.

Module 13 E-Way Bill PPT: 10 

01 What is the E-Way Bill?

01 What is an Electronic Way Bill?

• An electronic document that is required for movement of goods.

• It has to be generated on e-way bill portal

• A movement of goods for more than INR 50,000/- in value cannot be made by a registered person without an e-way bill

02 When E-way bill has to be generated?

When there is movement of goods:

• In relation to supply

• For reasons other than a supply

• Due to inward supply from an unregistered person

03 Objective and benefits of E-Way Bills

04 Who can generate an E-Way Bill

05 Exceptions of generation of E-Way Bill

06 Consequences of not carrying E-Way Bill

07 Validity and Cancellation of E-Way Bill

Module 14: Refund of GST: Page 25

Refunds under GST

Refund – Explanation 1 to sec. 54 – Inclusive definition

➢ Refund of tax paid on zero-rated supplies of goods or services or both

➢ Refund of inputs or input services used in making such zero-rated supplies

➢ Refund of tax on the supply of goods regarded as deemed exports

➢ Refund of unutilized input tax credit due to a higher tax rate on the input than tax rate on outward supplies 

Relevant provisions regarding Refunds

➢ CGSTAct – Sec. 54 to 58

➢ CGST Rules – Rule 89 to 97A

Cases where no refund shall be allowed

Cases where refund of unutilized ITC shall not be allowed

•In the cases other than:

oZero rated supply without payment of tax;

oAccumulation of ITC on account of inverted duty structure;

• Goods subject to export duty;

• If the supplier has availed drawback in respect of central tax or claims refund of the integrated tax paid on such supplies

Unjust Enrichment

• Every person who has paid tax to Govt. is assumed to have passed on the burden of tax, unless contrary is proved;

• As per principal of unjust enrichment, refund shall be given to person who has actually borne the burden of tax;

• Otherwise, refund is transferred to consumer welfare fund.

Non Payment of refund:

• No refund shall be paid if the amount of refund is less than ₹1,000 in each tax head separately.

Other relevant forms:

RFD-01W The applicant can withdraw the refund application during anytime before order of sanctioning of refund using RFD-01W

PMT-03 Where any amount claimed as refund is rejected, either fully or partly, the amount debited, to the extent of rejection, shall be re-credited to the electronic credit ledger under FORM PMT-03

Procedure for filing refund application on the portal

1. Under ‘Refunds’ select the tab ‘Application for refund’, select the category of refund from the following which you require to file.

2. Select the period for which you require to file refund application and click on create application. Select the refund type

3. Download the offline tool from the ‘Download offline utility’ option as available 

4. Proceed to fill in details in relation to outward supplies for which refund is to be filed. Once all the details have been filled, proceed to create file to upload the same on the link mentioned in the previous slide.

5. Proceed to upload the file generated in the previous slide to the ‘Click to upload the details of exports of goods and/ or services’ section mentioned in the below image and validate the same.

6. Proceed to fill the turnover as computed and input tax credit availed for the relevant period. Maximum amount of refund eligible will get auto-populated.

7. Amount of refund claimed should be in compliance with the latest circulars issued by government. Further, amount eligible should be punched in the‘Refund to be claimed’ tab

8. Select the bank account in which you want the refund to be received.

9. Upload the documents in supporting of the refund claim to be made.

10. Click on the mandatory undertakings and proceed to provide LUT number (in case of exports without payment of tax) and proceed to save the return.

11. Review the entire application and proceed to submit the application.

12. Post submission, affix DSC to the application, Application will be re-directed to the concerned officer for processing.

Checklist – Refund of tax paid on export of services

S.no Refund Document Checklist

1 Declaration under second and third proviso to section 54(3)

2 Undertaking in relation to sections 16(2)(c) and section 42(2)

3 Statement 2 under rule 89(2)(c)

4 BRC/FIRC /any other document indicating the receipt of sale proceeds of services

5 Copy of GSTR-2A of the relevant period

6 Statement of invoices (Annexure-B)

7Self-certified copies of invoices entered in Annexure-A whose details are not found in GSTR2A of the relevant period

8Self-declaration regarding non-prosecution under sub-rule (1) of rule 91 of the CGST Rules

for availing provisional refund

Checklist – Accumulated ITC Refund

S.no Refund Document Checklist

1 Declaration under second and third proviso to section 54(3)

2 Undertaking in relation to sections 16(2)(c) and section 42(2)

3 Statement 3 under rule 89(2)(b) and rule 89(2)(c)

4 Statement 3A under rule 89(4)

5 Copy of GSTR-2A of the relevant period

6 Statement of invoices (Annexure-B)

7 BRC/FIRC in case of export of services and shipping bill (only in case of exports made

through non-EDI ports) in case of goods

Checklist – Inverted Tax Structure

S.no Refund Document Checklist

1 Declaration under second and third proviso to section 54(3)

2 Declaration under section 54(3)(ii)

3 Undertaking in relation to sections 16(2)(c) and section 42(2)

4 Statement 1 under rule 89(5)

5 Statement 1A under rule 89(2)(h)

6Self-declaration under rule 89(2)(l) if amount claimed does not exceed two lakh rupees, certification under rule 89(2)(m) otherwise

7 Copy of GSTR-2A of the relevant period

8 Statement of invoices (Annexure-B)

Module 15: Returns: Page 62

01 Returns under GST

02 Types of returns

IFF - Invoice Furnishing Facility - small tax payers - can give invoice details on a monthly basis

03 Filing of GSTR-1

04 Filing of GSTR-3B

05 GSTR-09

06 GSTR-09C

GSTR-9: Annual Return

GSTR 9 is an annual return to be filed once in a year by the registered taxpayers under GST including

those registered under composition levy scheme but excluding Casual Taxable person, Input Service

Distributors, Non-resident taxable persons and person paying TDS under section 51 of CGST Act.

GSTR-9 consists of details regarding the supplies made and received during the year under CGST,SGST

and IGST. It consolidates the information furnished in the monthly/

quarterly returns filed during the year

GSTR-9 shall be filed on or before 31st December of the subsequent

financial year.

For instance for FY 2020-21, the due date for filing GSTR 9 is

31st December 2021

A registered person shall not be allowed to furnish an annual return for a financial year after the expiry of

a period of three years from the due date of furnishing the said annual return- Inserted vide THE

FINANCE ACT, 2023 dated 31-03-2023 w.e.f. 01-10-2023

GSTR-9 – Details to be Provided

PART I Basic details of the taxpayer. This will be auto-populated.

PART II Details of outward and inward supplies declared during the financial year.

PART III Details of ITC for the financial year

PART IV Details of tax paid as declared in returns filed during the F.Y.

PART VI Other Information comprising of GST Demands and Refunds, HSN wise summary and

Late fee payable and paid details

GSTR-9C: Reconciliation statement

GSTR 9C is a statement of reconciliation between GSTR-9 filed and the amount as per the audited

financial statement of the taxpayers. As per Sec. 44 read with Rule 80, every registered person (whose

whose aggregate turnover during a financial year exceeds five crore rupees), other than Input Service

Distributor, a person paying tax under Sec. 51 or 52, a casual taxable person and a non-resident taxable

need to furnish this statement on self certification basis.

GSTR-9C shall be filed on or before 31st December of the subsequent

financial year.

For instance, FY 2020-21 due date for filing GSTR 9C is

31st December 2021

GSTR-9C – Details to be Provided

PART I Basic details of the taxpayer. This will be auto-populated.

PART II Reconciliation of turnover declared in audited Annual Financial Statement with turnover

declared in Annual Return (GSTR9)

PART III Reconciliation of Tax paid.

PART IV Reconciliation of Input Tax Credit.

PART V Additional Liability due to non reconciliation

Module 16:   Assessment and Audit: Page 12

01 What is Assessment

Assessment under GST laws has been defined to mean determination of tax liability under GST Acts and it includes self-assessment, re-assessment, provisional assessment, summary assessment and best judgment assessment- Section 2(11) of CGST Act

02 Types of Assessment

03 Process of provisional Assessment

04 General understanding of Audit

• GST is a trust-based taxation regime wherein the assesse is required to self-assess and discharge his tax liability

• Audit in tax law is an important tool for the tax authorities to scrutinize the self-assessed liability determined by the assesse, Compliances undertaken etc to check and ensure compliance of law and prevent any revenue leakage.

• Thus, Audit brings accountability on the part of Taxpayer to properly assess and pay taxes as per the provisions of law and hence makes the tax system more effective

• Under GST Laws, Audit has been defined under Section 2(13) of CGSTAct to mean examination of records, returns and other documents maintained or furnished by the registered person under GST laws, to :

➢ verify the correctness of turnover declared, taxes paid, refund claimed, and input tax credit availed, and

➢ assess his compliance with the provisions of the GSTActs or the rules made thereunder

05 Type of Audit under GST

Audit by Tax Authorities : Audit conducted on order by Commissioner

Special Audit: Audit conducted by a CA/CMAnominated by Commissioner

06 Audit by Tax authorities & 07 Process of Audit by tax authorities

08 Special audit

09 Process of special audit

Entire system is based on trust based assessment and hence the need of audit. 

Module 17: Demands and Recovery: Page 18

01 Hierarchy of Officers and monetary limit

02 Time limit for issue of SCN

03 Adjudication order and Time-limits

Demand only against proper notice

04 Summary of Timelines

05 General Provision relating to Determination of Tax

06 Tax collected but not deposited

07 Tax wrongfully collected and paid

08 Recovery Proceedings

09 Modes of Recovery

10 Garnishee Proceedings

Module 18: Appeals and Advance Ruling: Page 22

01 Understanding of Appeal

General understanding of Appeal

• Dispute arises whenever there is differences in view between the tax-payer and tax officer.

• However, if a taxable person is not satisfied by the decision or order passed by the Adjudicating Authority, then he can appeal to a higher court. The following are the 4 levels of the appeal procedure in GST.

• Now, since India follows a dual GST structure, a natural question which arises is – should an appeal need to be made to both CGST as well as SGST / UTGST authorities?

• As per the provisions of CGST appeals and revisions, both CGST as well as SGST / UTGST officers are empowered to pass orders, and an order passed under CGST will also be deemed to be applied to SGST / UTGST.

• However if an officer under CGST has passed any order, any GST appeal and revisions against that order, will lie only with the officers of CGST. The same will apply in the case or orders passed under SGST / UTGST

02 Hierarchy of Appeal

03 Litigation under GST & Recourse

04 Appeal to appellate authority

05 Revisional authority

06 Appeal to appellate tribunal

07 Appeals to High court

08 Appeals to Supreme Court

09 Authorized representative

10 List of forms for filling appeal

List of forms for filling appeal

Sl. No. Form No. Content

1 GST APL-01 Appeal to AA(Aggrieved person)

2 GST APL-02 Acknowledgement of submission of appeal

3 GST APL-03 Appeal to AA(Authorized officer)

4 GST APL-04 Summary of order indicating final demand

5 GST APL-05 Appeal to the AT(Aggrieved person)

6 GST APL-06 Cross-objections before AT

7 GST APL-07 Appeal to AT(Authorized officer)

8 GST APL-08 Appeal to HC

9 GST RVN-01 Notice by the RA

11 Advance ruling

AAR Miscellaneous provisions

Rectification of Mistakes

• Authority may amend their order to rectify any mistake apparent on the face of the record within a period of six months from the date of the order. (u/s 102 of the CGST Act, 2017)

• However, if such rectification enhances the tax liability or reduces the quantum of input tax credit, the applicant must be heard before the order is passed.

Applicability of Advance Ruling

• An advance ruling pronounced by AAR or AAAR shall be binding only on the applicant and on the concerned officer or the jurisdictional officer in respect of the applicant. (u/s 103 of the CGST Act, 2017)

Time period for applicability

• No specific time period

• Advance ruling shall apply till the period when the law, facts or circumstances supporting original advance ruling have not changed

• Advance ruling shall be held to be ab initio void if obtained by fraud or suppression of material facts or misrepresentation of facts

Module 19 Interest and Penalty Provision: PPT 14

01 Interest on delayed payment of tax

Interest on delayed payment of tax & undue claim of ITC

As per Section 50 of CGST Act, 2017, if GST is not paid within the due dates prescribed for filing of return, then, interest at rates prescribed under GST law must be paid on net tax liability. The same is summarized below:

The interest must be paid by every taxpayer who:

• Delay in payment of GST attracts interest @18% during delay period
• Excess availment and utilization of ITC for payment of GST attracts interest @24% during delay period

02 Interest on undue claim of ITC

03 Late Fee for delayed filling of return

Late Fee for delayed filling of return

As per Section 47 of CGST Act, 2017, late fee is payable when there is delay in filing the GST return. A prescribed late fees will

be charged for each day of delay. The maximum limit of late fee per return for Form GSTR-1 and Form GSTR-3B is

summarized below:

Late Fee for delayed filling of return

Particulars Maximum limit for Late Fees (equally divided into CGST & SGST)

Annual Turnover in last year upto 1.5 cr. 1.5 cr. To 5 cr. Above 5 cr.

Form GSTR-1 2,000 per return 5,000 per return 10,000 per return

Form GSTR-3B 2,000 per return 5,000 per return 10,000 per return

04 Offence and understanding of penalty - 21 offences listed segregated into 3 buckets as below:

05 Personal Penalty

Personal Penalty u/s 122 (3)

Any person who aids or abets any of the offences under Section 122(1) where he acquires possession of, or transports, removes, deposits, keeps, conceals, supplies or purchases or in any other manner deals with any goods which are liable to confiscation under the Act where he receives or is in any way concerned with the supply of services which are in contravention of the Act

Fails to appear before the officer of Central tax, when issued with a summon for appearance to give evidence or produce a document in an inquiry or fails to issue invoice or fails to account for an invoice in his books of accountPenalty to the extent of INR 25,000 (each under CGST and SGST) may be imposed.

06 General Penalty u/s 125

Imposition of penalty upon Any person,

1. who contravenes any provisions the act or rules

2. No penalty is separately provided for in this act

Penalty

1. Maximum INR 25,000 (each in CGST and SGST)

07 General disciplines w.r.t. penalty u/s 126

General disciplines w.r.t. Penalty u/s 126

❖ No officer shall impose penalty for

✓ Minor breaches of tax regulation – tax amount involved is less than INR 5,000

✓ Procedural requirements –

• rectifiable omission or mistake in documentation

• not involving fraud intend

• Error is apparent on the face of record

❖ Penalty to be imposed depending upon facts and circumstances considering degree and severity

❖ Opportunity of being heard

❖ Specify nature of breach and applicable law which imposing penalty in an order

❖ Voluntary disclosure of breach of tax/law etc. prior to discovery – may consider as mitigating factor during

quantification of penalty

❖ The above principle do not apply where penalty is specified in act as fixed sum or fixed %

08 Power to impose and waive off penalty

❖ S. 127 - The officer may issue an order for levying penalty when he is of view that

✓ Person is liable to penalty

✓ The same is not covered under any proceedings u/s 62, 63, 64, 73 or 74 or 129 or 130

✓ After reasonable opportunity of being heard

❖ S. 128 - On recommendation of the Council, the government, by notification:

✓ Waive in part or full,

✓ Penalty u/s 122 (specified offences), 123 (information return) or 125(General penalty) or late fees

✓ For specified taxpayers under mitigating circumstances.

E.g. late fees waived off during covid-19

Module 20 Inspection, Seizure and Arrest PPT7

Provision with higher authority. 

01 Inspection

The Joint Commissioner of SGST/CGST (or a higher officer) may have reasons to believe that

a) a taxable person has suppressed any transaction or claimed excess ITC

b) Transporter or own has kept goods which escaped tax;

he can authorize any other officer of CGST/SGST (in FORM GST INS-01) to inspect places of business of the suspected evader.

Inspection of Goods in movement

The Government may intercept and inspect the goods in movement and require the person in charge of a conveyance to produce e-way bill, tax invoice / delivery challan, etc. and devices for verification of the officer.

02 Search and seizure

03 Power to arrest

Power to arrest –Where the Commissioner has reasons to believe that a person has committed any offence specified in

Section 132 (1) (a) or (b) or (c) or (d) which is punishable under clause (i) or (ii) of sub-section (1), or sub-section (2) of the said section, he may, by order, authorize any officer of central tax to arrest such person.

Cognizable offense

• Police can arrest a person without an arrest warrant.

• The arrested person will be informed of the grounds for his arrest.

• Serious crimes like murder, robbery, counterfeiting.

• Appearance before the magistrate within 24 hours

Non-cognizable offence

• Police can not arrest a person without an arrest warrant.

• Shall be admitted to bail or in default of bail, forwarded to the custody of the Magistrate

• The Deputy Commissioner or the Assistant Commissioner shall, for the purpose of releasing an arrested person on bail or otherwise, have the same powers and be subject to the same provisions as an officer-in-charge of a police station.

03Misc. Provisions

The proper office has power to summon persons to give evidence and produce documents.

The proper office shall have access to any place of business of a registered person to inspect books of

account, documents, computers, computer programs etc.

All officers of Police, Railways, Customs, and those officers engaged in the collection of land revenue,

including village officers, officers of State tax and officers of Union territory tax shall assist the proper

officers.

Module 21 Anti-Profiteering PPT7

01 Anti Profiteering - Concept

Anti Profiteering = Anti: opposed to/ against + Profiteering: make or seek to make excessive or unfair profit, often through manipulation of prices or by exploiting a bad or unusual situation

Factors leading to Anti-Profiteering Measure

▪ It has been the experience of many countries that when GST was introduced there has been a marked increase in inflation and the prices of the commodities

▪ In many countries like Australia and Singapore, the inflationary effect has largely been attributed to fact that the benefit accruing due to GST was not passed to the ultimate consumer.

▪ To curb undue profiteering and ensure that the benefit accruing due to implementation of GST is passed on to the consumer, Antiprofiteering provisions have been enacted under GST.

02 Provisions under GST Law

03 Legislative Process

Anti Profiteering: Legislative Process

State level Screening Committee

•To be constituted by respective State Government

•Applications forwarded by interested parties on local issues or application forwarded by Standing Committee is first examined within 2 months from date of receipt

•Relevant cases are forwarded with recommendations to Standing Committee Standing Committee

•Constituted by GST Council by nominating State and Central Government officers.

•Examine the written application within 2 months from the date of receipt from interested party or Commissioner for adequacy and accuracy of the evidence in the application

•If there is prima facie evidence, matter is referred to DG DG of Anti Profiteering

•Before initiating investigation, DG issues notice to interested parties for fair enquiry

•Detailed investigation is conducted by DG, and evidence is collected

•Complete investigation within 6 months from date of receipt from Standing Committee

•Furnish report with its finding to NAA

NAA

•Determination within 6 months from date of receipt of report from DG

•Recommend further investigation or inquiry to DG, if required

•Power to order for reduction of prices, return amount to recipient along with interest, impose penalty or cancel registration