The Ministry of Finance’s PAN 2.0 Project, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on November 25, 2024, aims to modernize and streamline the issuance and management of Permanent Account Numbers (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Numbers (TAN). This initiative focuses on enhancing efficiency, simplifying processes, and improving the user experience by consolidating services into a unified platform.
Key Features of PAN 2.0:
- Unified Portal: Integration of services from the e-Filing Portal, UTIITSL, and Protean e-Gov into a single platform to address all PAN/TAN-related matters, including:
- Applications and updates.
- Aadhaar-PAN linking.
- Corrections and reissuance requests.
- Online PAN validation.
- Paperless and Eco-Friendly Processes: Fully online, paperless processes aligned with the Digital India initiative.
- Free PAN Issuance: PAN will be issued free of cost with quicker processing times. Corrections and updates can also be made online without charges.
- Enhanced Security: Introduction of a PAN Data Vault to protect personal and demographic data.
- Dynamic QR Codes: PAN cards will feature dynamic QR codes to validate updated details in real-time.
- Common Business Identifier: PAN will serve as the universal identifier for digital systems of specified government agencies.
- Improved Grievance Redressal: A dedicated call center and helpdesk will enhance the resolution of taxpayer issues.
Benefits for Existing PAN Holders:
- Existing PAN holders are not required to reapply under PAN 2.0.
- Corrections or updates can be made free of cost through the online portal.
- Older PAN cards without QR codes will remain valid, but users can request a new QR code-enabled card if desired.
Centralized Mechanism for Duplicate PANs:
The project introduces advanced system logic to detect and address duplicate PAN issues, ensuring compliance with the Income Tax Act, 1961, which prohibits individuals from holding multiple PANs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- What is PAN 2.0? PAN 2.0 is an e-Governance initiative to re-engineer taxpayer registration services by consolidating processes for PAN/TAN allotment, updates, corrections, and validation into a single platform.
- How is PAN 2.0 different from the existing setup?
- Integration of Platforms: Unifies three existing portals into one.
- Paperless Processes: Fully online and eco-friendly.
- Free Services: No cost for PAN issuance or updates.
- Do existing PAN cardholders need to reapply? No, existing PAN cards will remain valid under the PAN 2.0 system.
- Can corrections be made to existing PAN details? Yes, corrections or updates such as name, address, or contact details can be made online free of cost.
- How will the new PAN card be delivered? New PAN cards will only be issued upon user request for updates or corrections. Address updates can be made online via Aadhaar-linked facilities.
- Will older PAN cards without QR codes still function? Yes, older PAN cards remain valid. However, users can opt for a new card with enhanced QR codes if needed.
- What does the “Common Business Identifier” mean? PAN will act as a universal identifier for business-related activities across specified government agencies.
- How will duplicate PANs be managed? The PAN 2.0 system incorporates improved logic and centralized mechanisms to identify and resolve duplicate PAN issues effectively.
By consolidating platforms, leveraging technology, and prioritizing user-friendly services, the PAN 2.0 Project represents a significant advancement in taxpayer convenience and administrative efficiency. It aligns with the government’s broader goal of fostering a seamless, transparent, and inclusive digital ecosystem.
