Tax laws in India refer to the legal framework and regulations that govern the imposition, collection, and enforcement of taxes in the country. These laws are set forth by the government and administered by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).
In India, taxes are divided into two main categories: direct taxes and indirect taxes. Direct taxes include income tax, which is imposed on an individual’s or a business’s income, and wealth tax, which is imposed on an individual’s net wealth. Indirect taxes include goods and services tax (GST), which is imposed on the sale and consumption of goods and services, and customs duty, which is imposed on imported goods.
The Income Tax Act, 1961 is the main legislation that governs the imposition and collection of income tax in India. It lays out the rules and regulations for assessing and collecting income tax, including the tax rates and the various deductions and exemptions that are available.
The GST Act, 2017, is the main legislation that governs the imposition and collection of GST. It lays out the rules and regulations for the registration, payment, and compliance of GST, including the GST rates and the various input tax credit available.
Customs Act, 1962 governs the imposition and collection of custom duty in India. It lays out the rules and regulations for the assessment, collection, and enforcement of customs duty, including the rates of duty, the various exemptions and concessions available, and the procedures for clearance of goods.
In addition to these laws, there are various other laws and regulations that govern specific aspects of the tax system in India, such as the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), the Companies Act, and the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act.
Overall, the tax laws in India are complex and ever-changing, and taxpayers are required to stay compliant with the various rules and regulations. They are also subject to regular changes and amendments made by the government from time to time.