Context:
Recently, the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) made the geocoding functionality live for all states and union territories.
Relevance:
GS III: Indian Economy
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Geocoding
- About Goods and Services Tax Network
About Geocoding:
- Geocoding is the process of converting an address or description of a location into geographic coordinates.
- It is used to ensure the accuracy of address details and streamline the address location and verification process.
- The implementation of geocoding has been introduced in the GSTN (Goods and Services Tax Network) records.
- The GST Network has already geocoded 1.8 crore principal places of businesses.
- The geocoding functionality is available for various types of taxpayers, including normal taxpayers, composition taxpayers, SEZ units, SEZ developers, input service distributors, and casual taxpayers.
- It is applicable to taxpayers who are active, cancelled, or suspended.
- Geocoding is a one-time activity, and once the address is submitted, revisions are not allowed.
- Taxpayers who have already geocoded their address through new registration or core amendment will not have access to the geocoding functionality.
About Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN):
- GSTN is a nonprofit non-government company registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013.
- It serves as the IT backbone for the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India.
- GSTN provides shared IT infrastructure and services to both the central and state governments, as well as taxpayers and other stakeholders.
- The company is responsible for developing and maintaining the technological infrastructure for the smooth functioning of the GST system.
- It facilitates various functions, including taxpayer registration, return filing, tax payment, and invoice matching.
- Private players hold a 51% equity stake in the GSTN, while the Central and State governments collectively hold a 49% equity stake.
- The involvement of private players ensures the efficient management and operation of the GSTN, leveraging their expertise in the IT sector.
-Source: Indian Express
