President Murmu Calls IRS Officers ‘Guardians of Trust’; Urges Fair, Transparent Tax System

The President emphasized that decisions rooted in justice and integrity not only strengthen governance but also contribute to the holistic development of the nation.

President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu today underscored the pivotal role of Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officers in shaping a fair, transparent, and citizen-centric tax system, while addressing the valediction ceremony of the 78th batch of IRS (Income Tax) Officer Trainees at the National Academy of Direct Taxes (NADT), Nagpur.

Her address comes at a transformative moment in India’s fiscal landscape, marked by the rollout of the Income Tax Act, 2025, which came into effect from April 1, 2026.

Tax Reforms Signal Trust and Economic Momentum

Highlighting India’s dynamic economic journey, the President noted that sustained growth in direct tax collections reflects not only an expanding tax base but also improved compliance and growing trust between citizens and the administration.

She described the new Income Tax Act, 2025, as a historic reform aimed at creating a modern, simplified, and transparent tax regime.

However, she emphasized that the success of the reform will depend on its implementation:

“Its true success will be ensured solely through accurate, transparent and effective implementation—and this responsibility rests upon the shoulders of IRS officers.”

Beyond Tax Collection: Custodians of Justice and Fairness

President Murmu stressed that the role of IRS officers goes far beyond revenue collection. She described them as:

• Custodians of public trust

• Guardians of justice and fairness

• Pillars of economic progress and good governance

She urged the young officers to uphold the highest standards of integrity, reminding them that their actions directly influence citizens’ confidence in the system.

Ethics, Sensitivity and Public Trust

Calling for a humane and ethical approach to administration, the President advised officers to embody:

• Humility and restraint

• Sensitivity in dealing with taxpayers

• Commitment to fairness and transparency

She highlighted that every Income Tax Return represents an individual’s effort, aspiration, and enterprise, and must be treated with respect.

“Behind every return lies a story of hard work,” she noted, urging officers to ensure that all citizens—especially the underprivileged—are treated with dignity.

Strengthening Inclusive and Transparent Governance

The President emphasized that decisions rooted in justice and integrity not only strengthen governance but also contribute to the holistic development of the nation.

She called upon IRS officers to play a proactive role in building an inclusive administrative system that fosters trust and encourages voluntary compliance.

Role in India’s Viksit Bharat Vision

As India advances toward the goal of Viksit Bharat, President Murmu said the responsibility of institutions and civil servants has significantly increased.

She urged the new officers to adopt:

• High standards of efficiency

• Transparent processes

• Inclusive and citizen-centric approaches

Shaping the Future of India’s Tax System

The ceremony marked the formal induction of a new generation of tax administrators at a time when India is undergoing significant fiscal and governance reforms.

With the implementation of a new tax regime and a growing digital economy, IRS officers are expected to play a crucial role in:

• Enhancing compliance

• Strengthening revenue systems

• Promoting fairness and equity

• Supporting sustainable economic growth

The President expressed confidence that the young officers will rise to the occasion and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.