Prime Narendra Modi on Saturday called upon all those with undisclosed income in the jewellery industry to declare it before September 30.
He also asked them not to fear the government or income tax officers. Modi was speaking at a felicitation function organized by the All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation.
"I urge you (jewellers) to ask everyone associated with your industry to declare assets as such (tax evasion) things are more common in this industry. Why should we fear the government or income tax officers? Its better that one declares their assets before September 30," Modi said.
Modi had earlier during his monthly radio address 'Mann Ki Baat' urged citizens with undisclosed income to come clean by September 30.
"I urge everyone to disclose undisclosed income by September 30. This is the last chance to avoid any problems," Modi had said on June 26.
Modi also urged the gems and jewellery sector in India to look beyond the domestic market and establish a global presence.
He called for innovation and skill development to achieve this objective. "There is an increasing global demand for handmade jewellery," he said.
Recalling the recent issues related to excise duty, the Prime Minister said: "These issues gave an opportunity for the gems and jewellery industry to better understand the working of the government. It also gave the government an opportunity to better understand the intricacies of the sector."
Modi further said: "We wanted to win you over and we have won over each other. Things like bending happens during battles but we are not battling each other. This government is yours and our doors are always open."
--IANS
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