Context:
The Cabinet has recently approved PAN 2.0 (upgrade to existing PAN) to enhance user-friendliness and align with current technological advancements.
More on the news:
- With a financial outlay of ₹1,435 crore, the PAN 2.0 project is expected to re-engineer the PAN/TAN services to offer seamless digital experiences.
- This initiative will simplify services and ensure data security and transparency, fostering better tax compliance.
About PAN 2.0 Project:
PAN 2.0 aims to revolutionize the existing system by integrating all PAN/TAN services into a unified portal, ensuring a seamless and paperless process.
It aims to provide a more streamlined and efficient experience for taxpayers, aligning with the government’s vision of a digital India.
It adopts global standards to enhance taxpayer registration with seamless digital processes and strong data security.
- It ensures compliance with key ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certifications for quality, security, and service management
Key Features of PAN 2.0:
Integration of Platforms: PAN-related services are currently hosted on three different portals (e-Filing Portal, UTIITSL Portal, and Protean e-Gov Portal).
- In the PAN 2.0 Project, all PAN/TAN-related services will be hosted on a single unified portal of the Income Tax Department.
Comprehensive use of technology for paperless processes: Complete online, paperless processes as against the prevailing mode.
- Allotment/updation/correction of PAN will be done free of cost, and e-PAN will be sent to the registered mail ID.
Enhanced QR Code: Under PAN 2.0, the present QR code will be enhanced with a dynamic QR code displaying the latest data from the PAN database.
PAN data vault system: The project also aims to set up a “mandatory PAN data vault system” for all entities using PAN data through an online validation service.
A dedicated call center and helpdesk to address user queries and issues.
- The current valid PAN cards will remain fully operational under PAN 2.0 unless PAN cardholders request an update or correction.