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Home e-Newsletters Index Year 2014 July Day 3 - Thursday

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TMI Tax Updates - e-Newsletter
July 3, 2014

Case Laws in this Newsletter:

Income Tax Customs Corporate Laws Service Tax Central Excise CST, VAT & Sales Tax Indian Laws



Articles

1. MAT- A PROVISIONAL COLLECTION FOR WHICH NOW THERE IS NO REASON AND JUSTIFICATION –Section 115JB should be abolished

   By: DEVKUMAR KOTHARI

Summary: The article argues for the abolition of the Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) under Section 115JB, citing changes in tax laws and reduced incentives that make MAT unnecessary. Initially, MAT aimed to ensure that profitable companies paid a minimum tax on book profits, as they often paid little to no tax due to various deductions. However, with the introduction of taxes on dividends and the reduction or removal of many tax incentives, the rationale for MAT has diminished. The article suggests that MAT complicates tax collection, creates anomalies, and may not be constitutionally valid, advocating for its removal to simplify the tax system.

2. NIDHI COMPANIES

   By: DR.MARIAPPAN GOVINDARAJAN

Summary: Section 406 of the Companies Act, 2013, governs Nidhi companies, which promote thrift and savings among members, accepting deposits and lending exclusively to them. The Nidhi Rules, 2014, apply to companies declared as Nidhis or Mutual Benefit Societies under prior laws or incorporated under the 2013 Act. Key requirements include being a public company with a minimum equity share capital of Rs. 5,00,000, having at least 200 members, and maintaining net owned funds of Rs. 10,00,000. Nidhis face restrictions on business activities, deposit acceptance, and loan issuance, and must comply with specific financial and operational guidelines, including filing returns and maintaining branch operations. Penalties apply for non-compliance.


News

1. Streamlining the Procedure for Grant of Industrial Licenses

Summary: The validity period of Industrial Licenses has been extended from two to three years to facilitate business operations. For licenses where production hasn't started within three years, applications for extension must be submitted 60 days before expiry. The firm's status must match the original license, and any changes must be endorsed. Applications are reviewed by the Ministry of Home Affairs and relevant state government if there are changes in key personnel. Applicants must have secured land, begun construction, and ordered machinery. Extensions are granted for two years, and licenses lapse if production doesn't start within five years.

2. RBI Reference Rate for US $ and Euro

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India set the reference rate for the US dollar at Rs.59.9745 and for the Euro at Rs.82.0220 on July 2, 2014. The previous day's rates were Rs.60.1370 for the US dollar and Rs.82.2830 for the Euro. The exchange rates for the British Pound and Japanese Yen against the Rupee were 102.8982 and 59.05, respectively, on July 2, 2014. The SDR-Rupee rate will be determined based on the reference rate.

3. Media Advisory (General Budget 2014-15)

Summary: The Finance Minister is scheduled to present the General Budget for 2014-15 on July 10, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. in the Lok Sabha. The Economic Survey for 2013-14 will be presented in Parliament a day earlier, on July 9, 2014. Copies of both documents will be available through the Press Information Bureau (PIB) and distributed to media personnel at designated locations in Parliament House and the National Media Centre. Accredited correspondents can collect Authority Slips required for obtaining these documents from the PIB office in New Delhi on July 3 and 4, 2014, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

4. India Showcases Pharma Prowess in India Show in Japan India is a Responsible Health Care Giver: Commerce Secretary

Summary: India is rebranding itself as a global leader in pharmaceuticals, emphasizing its role as a responsible healthcare provider. At the 27th International Pharmaceutical R&D and Manufacturing Expo in Tokyo, the Commerce Secretary highlighted India's affordable, high-quality medicines that meet stringent US and EU regulations. India is advancing in biologics, biotechnology, and nanotechnology, ranking among the top three countries in drug discovery and R&D spending. The event, organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Department of Commerce, showcases India's pharma capabilities, with significant investments in research and development by major Indian corporations.

5. Imposition of Minimum Export Price on Onion Export

Summary: The Inter-Ministerial Committee decided to increase the Minimum Export Price (MEP) for onions to USD 500 per metric ton FOB, equivalent to Rs.30.00 per kg, due to rising wholesale and retail prices and delayed monsoon conditions. Despite the previous MEP of USD 300 per metric ton, onion exports had not significantly decreased. The decision aims to curb domestic price increases and boost local supply.


Notifications

DGFT

1. 86 (RE – 2013)/2009-2014 - dated 2-7-2014 - FTP

Export Policy of Onions

Summary: The Government of India, through the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has amended the export policy for onions under the Foreign Trade Policy 2009-2014. Effective immediately, all varieties of onions listed under Serial Numbers 51 and 52 of Chapter 7 in the ITC(HS) Classification of Export & Import Items are subject to a Minimum Export Price (MEP) of US$ 500 per Metric Ton FOB. This change supersedes previous notifications, ensuring that the export of onions adheres to the specified pricing guidelines as determined by the Director General of Foreign Trade.


Circulars / Instructions / Orders

FEMA

1. 09/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Compounding of Contraventions under FEMA, 1999

Summary: The Master Circular on Compounding of Contraventions under FEMA, 1999, outlines the process by which individuals or entities can voluntarily seek to compound contraventions of FEMA provisions. It consolidates existing instructions and is periodically updated. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) administers the compounding process, except for specific contraventions under Section 3(a) related to hawala transactions, which are handled by the Directorate of Enforcement. The circular details the powers, procedures, and prerequisites for compounding, emphasizing the need for quantifiable contraventions and providing a framework for submitting applications and determining penalties. It also specifies post-compounding procedures and conditions under which contraventions cannot be compounded.

2. 05/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Risk Management and Inter-Bank Dealings (Updated as on March 31, 2015)

Summary: The Master Circular on Risk Management and Inter-Bank Dealings, updated as of March 31, 2015, outlines comprehensive guidelines for Authorized Dealers (AD) Category I banks regarding foreign exchange derivative contracts, overseas commodity and freight hedging, and inter-bank foreign exchange dealings. It provides detailed instructions on products like forward foreign exchange contracts, options, and swaps for hedging exchange rate risks. The circular also addresses facilities for residents and non-residents, including Foreign Institutional Investors and Non-Resident Indians, and sets out operational guidelines, terms, and conditions for various financial instruments. Additionally, it specifies reporting requirements to the Reserve Bank and includes guidelines for managing accounts of non-resident banks.

3. 13/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Import of Goods and Services (As amended up to June 18, 2015)

Summary: The Master Circular on Import of Goods and Services, updated to June 18, 2015, consolidates guidelines for the import of goods and services into India under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. It provides comprehensive instructions for authorized dealer banks on handling import transactions, including general and operational guidelines, advance remittances, evidence of import, and specific provisions for importing goods such as gold, precious metals, and aviation equipment. The circular also includes rules for merchanting trade, third-party payments, and import factoring, ensuring compliance with existing foreign exchange regulations and trade policies.

4. 07/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Establishment of Liaison / Branch /Project Offices in India by Foreign Entities

Summary: The Master Circular provides guidelines for foreign entities to establish Liaison, Branch, or Project Offices in India under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. It outlines the application process, permissible activities, reporting requirements, and conditions for closure of such offices. Foreign entities must obtain Reserve Bank approval, with applications considered under the Reserve Bank or Government Route based on the sector of business. Liaison Offices are limited to communication roles, while Branch Offices can engage in certain business activities. Project Offices can be set up for specific projects with general permission under certain conditions. The Circular also details reporting and compliance obligations.

5. 03/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Memorandum of Instructions for Opening and Maintenance of Rupee/ Foreign Currency Vostro Accounts of Non-resident Exchange Houses (As updated on May 20, 2015)

Summary: The Master Circular provides comprehensive guidelines for Authorised Dealer Category-I banks on opening and maintaining Rupee/Foreign Currency Vostro Accounts for non-resident Exchange Houses. It includes procedures for Rupee Drawing Arrangements (RDAs), detailing operations, permitted transactions, and collateral requirements under different procedures like Designated Depository Agency (DDA), Non-DDA, and Speed Remittance. The document emphasizes compliance with KYC/AML/CFT guidelines, internal controls, and monitoring of accounts. It mandates regular audits, due diligence, and annual reviews to ensure adherence to regulations and safeguard against financial risks. The circular consolidates previous notifications and is periodically updated.

6. 14/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Exports of Goods and Services (Updated upto May 14, 2015)

Summary: The Master Circular on Exports of Goods and Services, updated to May 14, 2015, consolidates existing instructions for the export of goods and services from India under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. It provides guidelines for authorized dealer banks regarding export transactions, including exemptions, receipt and payment methods, realization and repatriation of export proceeds, and operational guidelines. The document also covers specific accounts such as the Diamond Dollar Account and Exchange Earners' Foreign Currency Account, and addresses issues like advance payments, consignment exports, invoicing, and export claims. It includes procedures for handling shipping documents, export bills, and overdue bills, along with provisions for write-offs and extensions of time for realization.

7. 01/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Money Transfer Service Scheme (As updated on March 25, 2015)

Summary: The Master Circular on the Money Transfer Service Scheme (MTSS) outlines the guidelines for transferring personal remittances from abroad to India. MTSS permits only inward remittances for family maintenance and tourists, prohibiting outward transfers. Indian Agents, authorized by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), partner with Overseas Principals to facilitate these transactions. The circular details the criteria for Indian Agents, the appointment of Sub-Agents, and the role of Overseas Principals, emphasizing compliance with KYC/AML/CFT norms. It also includes procedures for application, renewal, and inspection, with strict guidelines on collateral and reporting requirements.

8. 12/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on External Commercial Borrowings and Trade Credits (Updated up to June 11, 2015)

Summary: The Master Circular on External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) and Trade Credits consolidates guidelines under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999, governing ECBs and trade credits. It outlines the procedures and regulatory framework for ECBs, including eligible borrowers, recognized lenders, amount and maturity, and end-use restrictions. ECBs can be accessed via the Automatic or Approval Route, with specific conditions for each. The circular also covers Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds, Foreign Currency Exchangeable Bonds, and structured obligations. It mandates compliance with ECB guidelines and details reporting arrangements and dissemination of information. The circular is updated periodically to incorporate new instructions.

9. 06/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Miscellaneous Remittances from India – Facilities for Residents

Summary: The Master Circular issued by the Reserve Bank of India consolidates guidelines on miscellaneous remittances from India for residents under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. It details the permissible transactions for which foreign exchange can be drawn, including private visits, business travel, medical treatment, and cultural tours. The circular also outlines the Liberalised Remittance Scheme, allowing residents to remit up to USD 125,000 per financial year for permissible transactions. It specifies documentation requirements, conditions for using international credit and debit cards, and guidelines for handling unspent foreign exchange. The circular emphasizes compliance with the Act's provisions and the need for authorized dealers to verify the purpose of transactions.

10. 11/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Direct Investment by Residents in Joint Venture (JV) / Wholly Owned Subsidiary (WOS) Abroad (Amended up to May 06, 2015)

Summary: The Master Circular consolidates guidelines for direct investments by Indian residents in Joint Ventures (JV) and Wholly Owned Subsidiaries (WOS) abroad under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. It outlines permissible routes for investment, including the Automatic and Approval Routes, and specifies prohibitions, such as investments in real estate or banking without Reserve Bank approval. The circular provides detailed instructions on funding methods, reporting requirements, and the process for obtaining necessary approvals. It also covers the roles of Authorised Dealer banks in facilitating these investments and emphasizes compliance with regulatory norms. The circular is effective until July 1, 2015, after which it will be updated.

11. 10/2014-15 - dated 1-7-2014

Master Circular on Memorandum of Instructions governing money changing activities (As updated on March 25, 2015)

Summary: The Master Circular consolidates instructions for money changing activities under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. It provides guidelines for licensing, branch authorization, agent/franchisee appointments, and license renewals for Authorized Money Changers (AMCs). The circular outlines operational instructions, KYC/AML/CFT compliance, and conditions for revoking licenses. It specifies requirements for franchisee agreements, due diligence, and reporting obligations. AMCs must maintain minimum Net Owned Funds, submit regular statements to the Reserve Bank, and adhere to audit and inspection protocols. The circular is periodically updated and includes detailed annexures for various forms and reporting formats.


Highlights / Catch Notes

    Income Tax

  • High Court Orders Revision u/s 263 Due to Assessing Officer's Failure to Consider All Evidence on Record.

    Case-Laws - HC : Revision u/s 263 - entire materials on record were not considered by the Assessing Officer - It would have definitely be an erroneous procedure adopted by the AO - HC

  • Settlement Commission Overlooks Key Conditions for Interest Waiver u/s 220(2) of Income Tax Act.

    Case-Laws - HC : Waiver of interest u/s 220(2) - There was total non-application of mind by the Settlement Commission on the crucial issue as to whether the assessee has fulfilled all the three conditions laid therein - HC

  • Court Finds Unexplained Cash Deposits Taxable u/s 68 of Income Tax Act; Assessee's Claims Dismissed.

    Case-Laws - HC : Addition u/s 68 – cash were deposited in the bank account of the assessee - The assertion of the assessee in this regard was that it was the amount received from his clients is not true - HC

  • Court Rules Advance Money as Taxable Income if Repayment Liability Ceases in Books of Accounts.

    Case-Laws - HC : Advance money in books of accounts - accrual of income – the amount found credited in the books of account of the assessee, the liability to pay back the same had ceased to exist - taxable - HC

  • Section 14A: Deduction Rules for Expenses Linked to Excluded Income Explained in Simple Terms.

    Case-Laws - HC : Section 14A is applicable only when any part of the income is not to be included in the total income of the assessee and the expenditure relating to that part of income is claimed by the assessee as deduction - HC

  • Assessment Order Date in Tax Case Not Suspicious Despite 47-Day Period.

    Case-Laws - HC : Effective date of passing assessment order - A period of 47 days’ time is not time long enough which can even make anyone suspicious as regards the correctness of the date of the order - HC

  • High Court rules personal reasons don't justify cash loan repayments, enforcing strict compliance with Section 269T of Income Tax Act.

    Case-Laws - HC : Repayment of certain loans or deposits in cash - Section 269T – explanation of the Assessee was that the loan was repaid in cash as the father of payee was not well and the amount was required for illness is not acceptable - HC

  • Customs

  • Heat Exchangers and Air Conditioners Not Classified Under Heading 84.19 for Customs; Intended for Domestic Air-Conditioning Use.

    Case-Laws - AT : Heat exchangers and air conditioners - goods can be classified under Heading 84.19 is not acceptable as the same are not for purposes other than air-conditioning machinery used for domestic purposes - AT

  • Import of Used Buoyancy Tanks and Equipment Exempt from Licensing; Not Subject to Customs Confiscation.

    Case-Laws - AT : Import of old and used Buoyancy Tanks along with wire ropes, shackles chain blocks and hydraulic pumps - appellant is not required to obtain any licence - there cannot be confiscation of goods - AT

  • Service Tax

  • Brand Endorsement Activities Taxable Under Service Tax Section 65 (105) (zzzzq) Since July 1, 2010.

    Case-Laws - AT : Activity of Brand endorsement - appearing in advertisement and promotional events - the services provided by the respondent are covered by Section 65 (105) (zzzzq) which had come into force w.e.f. 01/07/10 only - AT

  • Travel Desk in Hotels Exempt from Service Tax on Rent-a-Cab Services, Rules Clarify Exclusion.

    Case-Laws - AT : Rent a cab service - Applicant stationed travel desk in their hotels and respective travel desk provided Rent a cab service' to their customers - prima facie appellant is not taxable - AT

  • Penalty Imposed Despite Reversal of CENVAT Credit Before SCN; Option to Pay Reduced Penalty with Interest Available.

    Case-Laws - AT : CENVAT Credit - Trading activity - Credit reversed before issuance of SCN - amount of penalty confirmed subject to an option that shall be provided to the appellant, to remit 25% of the penalty together with the specified interest - AT

  • Central Excise

  • Adjudicating Authority Criticized for Shifting CENVAT Credit Verification to Tribunal, Seen as Unnecessary Burden Transfer.

    Case-Laws - AT : CENVAT Credit - duty paying documents -adjudicating authority has unnecessarily chosen to raise the level of litigation by denying the credit as if it is Tribunal's job to get verification done. - AT

  • Assessee Granted Duty Remission for Inputs Lost in Fire Under Central Excise Regulations.

    Case-Laws - AT : Remission of duty - assessee are entitled for remission of duty on inputs gone in the manufacturing process which has been lost in fire - AT

  • Mandatory Penalty Not Applicable for Unutilized Cenvat Credit on Capital Goods with Depreciation Claim.

    Case-Laws - AT : Capital goods - availing depreciation while availing cenvat credit - Cenvat credit lying in Cenvat credit account unutilized in that situation, mandatory penalty is not imposable. - AT

  • CENVAT Credit on Capital Goods: No Reversal Required if Credit Was Not Initially Taken by Respondent.

    Case-Laws - AT : CENVAT Credit - Capital goods - removal as such - when the respondent has not taken CENVAT credit therefore, they are not required to reverse any credit on these capital goods. - AT

  • 277-Day Delay in Addressing Order Due to Unit Closure; Delay Condoned After Security Guard's Oversight.

    Case-Laws - AT : Condonation of delay - There is a delay of 277 days admittedly that impugned order was received by the Chowkidar but he did not inform the management and the unit was closed - delay condoned - AT

  • CENVAT Credit Approved for Safety Shoes: Recognized as Essential Equipment Under Welfare Legislation.

    Case-Laws - AT : CENVAT Credit - use of safety shoes - Once the indispensable necessity is the requirement of welfare legislation and that is also a Central legislation, object thereof cannot be defeated - Credit allowed - AT

  • VAT

  • University Prospectus Sales Subject to VAT, Not Classified as "Book" for Tax Exemption Purposes.

    Case-Laws - HC : Demand of tax - Sale of prospectus and application forms by the university - prospectus of the University cannot be treated as “book“ or “book meant for reading“ - held as taxable - HC


Case Laws:

  • Income Tax

  • 2014 (7) TMI 57
  • 2014 (7) TMI 56
  • 2014 (7) TMI 55
  • 2014 (7) TMI 54
  • 2014 (7) TMI 53
  • 2014 (7) TMI 52
  • 2014 (7) TMI 51
  • 2014 (7) TMI 50
  • 2014 (7) TMI 49
  • 2014 (7) TMI 48
  • 2014 (7) TMI 47
  • 2014 (7) TMI 46
  • 2014 (7) TMI 45
  • 2014 (7) TMI 44
  • 2014 (7) TMI 43
  • 2014 (7) TMI 42
  • 2014 (7) TMI 41
  • 2014 (7) TMI 40
  • 2014 (7) TMI 39
  • 2014 (7) TMI 38
  • Customs

  • 2014 (7) TMI 61
  • 2014 (7) TMI 60
  • Corporate Laws

  • 2014 (7) TMI 59
  • Service Tax

  • 2014 (7) TMI 78
  • 2014 (7) TMI 77
  • 2014 (7) TMI 76
  • 2014 (7) TMI 75
  • 2014 (7) TMI 74
  • Central Excise

  • 2014 (7) TMI 71
  • 2014 (7) TMI 70
  • 2014 (7) TMI 69
  • 2014 (7) TMI 68
  • 2014 (7) TMI 67
  • 2014 (7) TMI 66
  • 2014 (7) TMI 65
  • 2014 (7) TMI 64
  • 2014 (7) TMI 63
  • 2014 (7) TMI 62
  • CST, VAT & Sales Tax

  • 2014 (7) TMI 73
  • 2014 (7) TMI 72
  • Indian Laws

  • 2014 (7) TMI 58
 

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