VAT to be implemented by October in Jammu and Kashmir: Baig

JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir Minister of Finance, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Muzaffar Hussain Baig today said that VAT would implemented in the state by October this year.
"There is no immediate implementation of VAT as training of officials, and software is causing delay in its implementation in Jammu and Kashmir," Baig told PTI here today.
Due to this fact, VAT would be implemented by October, 2003 only, he said and added that it would be beneficial in the long run for the state.
The State Government has written to the Chairman of Empowerment Committee on VAT, asking him to send its persons to impart training to state officials about VAT and usage of software in this direction.
"We are awaiting a response from them. Even trainers from outside state are afraid in visiting Kashmir for providing training to state employees due to turmoil," he said and added this is causing delay.
He said that preparing shopkeepers, businessmen and other traders would need time to understand and learn about VAT. Besides, software installation would also consume time.