The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its approval for the PAN 2.0 Project of the Income Tax Department.
The financial implications for the PAN 2.0 Project will Rs.1435 crore.
The PAN 2.0 Project enables technology driven transformation of Taxpayer registration services and has significant benefits including:
Ease of access and speedy service delivery with improved quality;
Single Source of Truth and data consistency
Eco-friendly processes and cost optimization; and
Security and optimization of infrastructure for greater agility.
PAN 2.0 Project is an e-Governance project for re-engineering the business processes of taxpayer registration services through technology driven transformation of PAN/TAN services for enhanced digital experience of the taxpayers. This will be an upgrade of the current PAN/TAN 1.0 eco-system consolidating the core and non-core PAN/TAN activities as well as PAN validation service.
The PAN 2.0 Project resonates with the vision of the Government enshrined in Digital India by enabling the use of PAN as Common Identifier for all digital systems of specified government agencies.
Key Features of PAN 2.0
System Modernisation: The initiative will update the current framework with advanced technology to improve operational efficiency.
QR Code Integration: PAN cards will now feature QR codes, enabling quick access to and verification of taxpayer details.
Unified Portal: A single digital platform will consolidate all PAN-related services, making it easier for users to access and manage their accounts.
Improved Security: Cybersecurity measures will be strengthened to safeguard taxpayer data against breaches and unauthorised access.
Eco-Friendly Operations: By transitioning to a paperless system, the government aims to reduce environmental impact and cut operational costs.
Will your old PAN still remain valid? Do you need to apply for a new PAN card?
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that existing PAN cards will remain valid. He said, “Citizens will not need to apply for new PAN numbers. The upgrade is aimed at enhancing functionality without affecting the validity of current cards.”
However, taxpayers will have the option to upgrade their cards with the new QR code features at no additional cost.
The government has not yet announced the rollout date for PAN 2.0, but the initiative is expected to be a major step towards improving taxpayer services and strengthening the digital infrastructure.
This upgrade promises to make India’s tax system more efficient, secure, and accessible, benefiting individuals and businesses alike.
