Nagaland posts 27% GST revenue growth, exceeding national average
Nagaland has recorded a compound annual GST revenue growth rate of around 27% during the first six years of implementation (2017–2023), significantly exceeding the national average of 14%, according to Sashi Wapang Lanu, Additional Commissioner of Central GST.
Speaking at the GST Day Celebration 2025 held at the Conference Hall, Taxes Colony, Lengrijan, Dimapur, Lanu hailed GST as a “game-changer” for Nagaland, a state known for its “unique geographic and economic challenges.”
The event, jointly organised by the Office of the Commissioner of State Taxes Nagaland and the Commissioner of Central GST Dimapur, marked the 8th anniversary of the Goods and Services Tax, under the theme “GST: Simplifying Taxes; Empowering Citizens.”
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) was formally implemented on 1st July 2017, following the passage of the Constitutional Amendment Act in September 2016. Since then, it has evolved into a more transparent and streamlined tax system, replacing a patchwork of indirect taxes across states and fostering a unified national market.
This year’s celebration emphasised simplification, digital accessibility, and improved taxpayer engagement under the GST regime.
“GST has aligned the state more closely with India’s broader economic growth story,” Lanu said while addressing members of the business community, GST officers, and officials from both the Centre and the state. He highlighted several key benefits Nagaland has experienced under GST since its implementation in July 2017.
“In a historic milestone, India recorded its highest-ever monthly GST collection of Rs 2.37 lakh crore in April 2025, with Nagaland contributing its second-highest collection to date during the same month,” he said.
He attributed the improvement to the destination-based nature of GST, which has “redirected more tax revenues to consumer states like Nagaland, empowering it with a higher proportion—up to 70%—of its tax revenue.”
“Due to its small industrial base, Nagaland’s economy traditionally had limited tax revenue sources,” Lanu observed. “This increased fiscal strength is now being directed toward vital sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.”
He further stressed the role of GST in integrating the state into the national economic mainstream. “Digitalisation of tax processes has improved compliance, opened up new business opportunities for the youth, and helped bridge geographical isolation,” he noted.
In terms of capacity building, Lanu informed that the National Academy of Customs and Indirect Taxes (NACIN) is set to roll out a certificate training course through its regional institute in Shillong, aimed at certifying local practitioners as “GST Mitras”. “The course aims to train and certify local practitioners… improving outreach, awareness, and employment opportunities across the state,” he said.
Concluding his address, Lanu said, “GST is more than just a tax reform—it is a testament to India’s cooperative federalism and Nagaland’s commitment to self-reliance and inclusive economic development.”
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of commendation and appreciation certificates to officers, taxpayers, and technical personnel for exemplary service and tax compliance.
Officers awarded commendation certificates included Orenponi Yanthan (Deputy Commissioner, State Taxes), ZuluTemsu (Assistant Commissioner, State Taxes), Langphong Wanmai (Commercial State Taxes Officer), E. Mhabemo Ovung (Assistant Office Superintendent), Lienchungnung (Superintendent, CGST), and Lunmilen Sitlhou (Inspector, CGST).
Technical staff Biju Sarmah (Data Analyst) and Zeko Mero (Technical Lead) received appreciation certificates, while businesses and individuals honoured for their tax compliance included:
Symbios Creations Pvt. Ltd., Nagaland Decorative House, Zion Hospital Pharmacy, Jesmina Zeliang, M/s Heirloom Naga, Seyie Auto, Medoneizo Putsure, Bambusa, and Rohan Abraham (Chartered Accountant).
Mhathung Murray, Special Commissioner of State Taxes, lauded the awardees, calling them “shining examples” of timely tax filing and ethical conduct.
“Your remarkable feats serve as an inspiration to fellow business owners and will help promote a culture of prompt and voluntary tax compliance across the state,” he said.
He expressed hope that the recognitions would inspire a broader movement toward “responsible tax contribution” and support for nation-building.