The Income Tax Department has awarded its new PAN 2.0 project to tech giant LTIMindtree, according to reports. This project, which is expected to be operationalised in 1.5 years, aims to upgrade and modernise the systems related to Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) using advanced tools like artificial intelligence and data analytics.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has already cleared the project, which will cost around Rs 792 crore.
What is PAN 2.0 project?
The goal of PAN 2.0 is to make the entire process of issuing and managing PAN and TAN simpler and quicker. It also aims to offer better services to the public, faster processing times, and an improved system to handle complaints and queries, all by using the latest digital technologies.
The PAN 2.0 project is a transformative initiative to modernise taxpayer registration through advanced e-governance. The project addresses the requirements of taxpayers, focusing on consolidation of multiple platforms/portals and efficient services to PAN/ TAN holders.
PAN 2.0 project enables technology driven transformation of Taxpayer registration services and has significant benefits including:
-A single portal for all PAN/TAN-related services to simplify access for users.
-Eco-friendly paperless less processes to reduce paperwork.
-PAN will be issued free of cost, with quicker processing times.
-Personal and demographic data will be protected through enhanced security measures, including a PAN Data Vault.
-A dedicated call centre and helpdesk to address user queries and issues.
PAN 2.0 Revolutionizing Existing System
PAN 2.0 aims to revolutionize the existing system by integrating all PAN/TAN services into a unified portal, ensuring a seamless and paperless process. Free e-PAN services and simplified updates enhance convenience for taxpayers.
Have a look at these key features in detail: –
Integration of Platforms: PAN-related services are currently hosted on three different portals (e-Filing Portal, UTIITSL Portal and Protean e-Gov Portal).
In the PAN 2.0 Project, all PAN/TAN-related services will be hosted on a single unified portal of the Income Tax Department. The said Portal would host all end-to-end services related to PAN and TAN like allotment, updation, correction, Online PAN Validation (OPV), Know your AO, AADHAAR-PAN linking, verify your PAN, request for e-PAN, request for re-print of PAN card etc.
Comprehensive use of technology for paperless processes: Complete the online paperless process as against the prevailing mode.
Taxpayer facilitation: Allotment/updation/correction of PAN will be done free of cost, and e-PAN will be sent to the registered mail ID.
For a physical PAN card, the applicant has to request along with the prescribed fee of Rs 50 (domestic). For delivery of the card outside India, Rs. 15 + India post charges at actuals will be charged to the applicant.