Punjab GST collections rise 24.45% to ₹7,833 crore in FY27 Q1. Harpal Singh Cheema highlights growth, refunds, and anti-tax evasion drive.
Punjab has registered a strong performance in Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections, recording a 24.45% growth in the first quarter of the financial year 2026–27. The state’s improved revenue performance reflects better tax compliance, sustained economic activity, and ongoing governance reforms, said Finance, Excise and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Wednesday.
According to official data, Punjab’s gross GST collections rose to ₹7,833.45 crore during April–June FY27, compared to ₹6,294.57 crore in the same period last year, marking an increase of ₹1,538.88 crore.
Strong SGST Performance
The minister highlighted that State GST (SGST) cash collections grew by 9%, significantly higher than the national average of 3%. This indicates stronger compliance levels and effective administrative reforms in the taxation system.
He further noted that combined growth in GST and VAT/CST collections reflects a stable and improving fiscal position for the state.
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₹1,270 Crore Refunds to Boost Business Activity
To support businesses and improve liquidity in the market, the Punjab government released ₹1,270 crore in GST refunds during the quarter, including a significant portion under SGST. The government emphasized that timely refunds and simplified procedures are key to improving the ease of doing business in the state.
Crackdown on Tax Evasion Intensified
Reiterating the government’s zero-tolerance policy against tax evasion, Cheema stated that enforcement actions led to the recovery of ₹633 crore in penalties, a sharp 207% increase compared to the same period last year.
In June 2026 alone, authorities imposed penalties worth ₹225 crore and registered 20 FIRs against entities involved in fake invoicing and fraudulent GST registrations. Additionally, property auctions were conducted to recover pending VAT dues, generating around ₹14 crore.
Government Focus on Transparency and Growth
The Finance Minister said the government will continue balancing strict enforcement with taxpayer facilitation. The focus remains on ensuring transparency, strengthening revenue systems, and supporting honest taxpayers through efficient services and timely refunds.
Punjab’s strong GST performance is being seen as a positive indicator of economic resilience and improved financial governance in the state.
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