Reply from Mr. Amitabh Kumar - Head, Resource center

  
  
Dear TRPs,
  
A discussion was initiated in the discussion forum for 'targeting taxpayers in the month of March 2008'. It is good to see that many TRPs have given their views on this subject and have also suggested ways to increase the number of clients.
  
I have gone through the responses and suggestions. Some of you have stated that -
  
  1. The list of local TRPs can be put up in the Income Tax office.

  2. Mr. Ashish from Mumbai expressed his disappointment at having requested the Income Tax office at Mumbai to put up the names of TRPs on the notice board, but the same was turned down.

  3. Mr. Rahul has suggested that the IT Department could ask the government departments to use the services of TRPs.

  4. Mr. Jivan has suggested that special counters can be provided to the TRPs during the last week of return filing.

  5. Mr. Pravesh has stated that loans are required by the TRPs to set up their office for this work.

  6. Mr. Kumar has sought a list of books on Income Tax which may come handy for the TRPs.

  7. Mr. N. Paul has a long list of suggestions which might interest the other TRPs. He has stated that TRPs may be provided some space in the Income Tax office so that they can get several 'walk in' clients.

  8. Some of the TRPs have asked for an increase in their remuneration.
  
I appreciate your active participation in the 'discussion forum'. We have noted down your concerns and suggestions. It is felt that there should be a Mentor / Nodal Officer in each city, who can be approached by the TRPs, who can help in coordinating various activities of the TRPs and solve their problems at the local level. List of the Mentors will be put up on the TRP website, as soon as it is approved by the higher authorities. The Mentors can be contacted to put up the list of TRPs on the notice board of the local Income Tax office. They can also be contacted to put up banners of TRP logo, provide space for TRPs and special counters, when required.
  
As advised earlier, the TRPs have to work as entrepreneurs and not agents of the department. So, the Income Tax department can not issue any directions to the other government organizations to use the services the TRPs.
  
As regards, increase in remuneration or charges for conveyance, these things have been noted but they would require amendment in notification. Any progress in this matter will be communicated through the website.
  
The suggestions given by Mr. N. Paul may be seen by the TRPs. His enthusiasm is remarkable. He has also figured in our new column on the website - 'Successful TRP'. In case some of you have done well in the previous year and would like to share your success story, you may write to the Resource Centre.
  
As regards, 'Service at your door step', this is the very essence and USP of TRP Scheme. Please do not complain if some one calls you and requests you to render service at his premise. The female TRPs may go to the client accompanied by some one, in case there is any problem for those serving in small towns and far flanged areas. It would be advisable to collect 8-10 clients, before you visit to nearby towns. But you must explain these constraints to your clients and try to keep the spirit of service above profit. You can also explain that the Income Tax Department does not reimburse your traveling expenses; as such the same (outside the cities) may have to be borne by the Taxpayers. At no stage, however, the taxpayer should complain about refusal from TRPs. In the initial years, you would have to establish your credibility and reputation for efficient and prompt service.
  
The Resource Centre is of the view that most of the TRPs are not accessing the website frequently. You are requested to stay connected and express yours views freely.
  
With best wishes,
  
  
  
(Amitabh Kumar)
Director of Income Tax (PR, PP&OL;)