The Office of the Commissioner of State Taxes Nagaland, in collaboration with the Commissioner of Central GST Dimapur, hosted the GST Day Celebration 2025 at the Conference Hall, Taxes Colony, Lengrijan, Dimapur on 1st July, 2025.
With the theme “GST: Simplifying Taxes; Empowering Citizens,” this year’s celebration marked eight years since the implementation of GST, a landmark tax reform that unified India’s indirect tax system. GST was formally implemented on 1st July 2017, following the passage of the Constitutional Amendment Act in September 2016. It has since evolved into a more transparent and streamlined tax system, replacing multiple indirect taxes across states and fostering a unified national market. The celebration emphasised simplification, digital accessibility, and improved taxpayer engagement under the GST regime.
This year’s GST Day celebration in Nagaland reaffirmed the collective commitment to a fair, efficient, and citizen-friendly tax environment.
Additional Commissioner of CGST, Sashi Wapang Lanu in his welcome address said that Nagaland joined the rest of the country in celebrating the 8th anniversary of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) with a special event marked by a strong message of progress, empowerment, and inclusion. He while addressing the members of the business community, GST officers, and officials from both the Centre and the state hailed GST as a "game-changer" for Nagaland, a state known for its unique geographic and economic challenges. He further emphasised that GST has aligned the state more closely with India’s broader economic growth story and highlighted several key benefits the region has experienced under GST.
Lanu stated that, notably, the Northeastern states, including Nagaland, recorded a remarkable compound annual GST revenue growth rate of around 27% during the first six years of implementation (2017–2023), significantly exceeding the national average of 14%. In a historic milestone, India recorded its highest-ever monthly GST collection of ₹2.37 lakh crore in April 2025, with Nagaland contributing its second-highest collection to date during the same month. Due to its small industrial base, Nagaland's economy traditionally had limited tax revenue sources. However, the destination-based nature of GST has redirected more tax revenues to consumer states like Nagaland, empowering it with a higher proportion—up to 70%—of its tax revenue. This increased fiscal strength is now being directed toward vital sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
He also emphasised the role of GST in integrating Nagaland into the national economic mainstream. Digitalisation of tax processes has improved compliance, opened up new business opportunities for the youth, and helped bridge geographical isolation. In terms of capacity building, the National Academy of Customs and Indirect Taxes (NACIN) is set to roll out a certificate training course through its regional institute in Shillong. The course aims to train and certify local practitioners as "GST Mitras," improving outreach, awareness, and employment opportunities across the state.
Concluding the address, Lanu described GST as more than just a tax reform—it is a testament to India's cooperative federalism and Nagaland’s commitment to self-reliance and inclusive economic development. The celebration served not only as a moment of reflection but also as a renewed pledge to harness GST’s potential for a prosperous future.
Short speeches were delivered by awardees during the programme namely Rohan Abraham, Jesmina Zeliang, and representatives from Symbios Creations Pvt. Ltd., who shared their experiences with GST compliance and appreciated the digital transparency it offers.
The key feature of the celebration was the distribution of certificates recognising exemplary service and compliance. The Commendation Certificates were awarded to the officers officers namely Orenponi Yanthan, Deputy Commissioner of State Taxes, ZuluTemsu, Asst. Commissioner of State Taxes, Langphong Wanmai, Commercial State Taxes Officer, E. Mhabemo Ovung, Asst. Office Superintendent, Lienchungnung, Superintendent CGST, and Lunmilen Sitlhou, Inspector CGST. Appreciation Certificates for Technicians were given to Biju Sarmah, Data Analyst, State Taxes Nagaland, and Zeko Mero, Technical Lead, State Taxes Nagaland. Appreciation Certificates for Taxpayers were presented to Symbios Creations Private Limited, Nagaland Decorative House, Zion Hospital Pharmacy, Jesmina Zeliang, M/s Heirloom Naga, Seyie Auto, Medoneizo Putsure, Bambusa, and the Appreciation Certificate for Chartered Accountant was presented to Rohan Abraham.
Special Commissioner of State Taxes, Mhathung Murray, in his closing remark address, commended the awardees for their smart and ethical business practices, describing them as “shining examples” of timely tax filing and compliance. “Your remarkable feats serve as an inspiration to fellow business owners and will help promote a culture of prompt and voluntary tax compliance across the state,” he said. The recognition not only celebrates the achievements of the awardees but also aims to encourage a broader movement of responsible tax contribution. The department expressed hope that many more taxpayers would follow in the footsteps of this year’s winners, contributing actively to nation-building through honest and proactive tax practices.
The programme was chaired by Deputy Commissioner of State Taxes (Hq), Tokatoli Sohe and a special number was presented by Rajen Deb Nath.
The event brought together officials, stakeholders, taxpayers, and members of the public to reflect on the journey and impact of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India.
(Limatoshi, IA Dimapur)
