Context:

The ‘Mera Bill Mera Adhikar’ GST Reward Scheme is set to launch on September 1 with the aim of promoting transparency in financial transactions and empowering consumers

About Mera Bill Mera Adhikar Scheme:

• It is a Goods and Services Tax (GST) invoice incentive programme that offers cash incentives for uploading invoices.
• It would initially be introduced in the states of Assam, Gujarat, and Haryana, as well as the UTs of Puducherry, Daman & Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.
• Objective: To encourage customers to request a bill whenever they make purchases.
• How does the scheme works?
  • All invoices issued by GST-registered suppliers to consumers will be eligible for the scheme.
  • A monthly and quarterly draw of lots will be made, and winners will be eligible for cash reward prizes beginning from Rs 10,000 to up to Rs 1 crore.
  • The minimum purchase value for the invoice to be considered for the lucky draw is Rs 200, and individuals can upload a maximum of 25 invoices in a month.

The Role of Technology

In a digital age, technology plays a pivotal role in facilitating schemes of this nature. The government has developed the ‘Mera Bill Mera Adhikar’ mobile app, available on both iOS and Android platforms. This app provides a seamless platform for consumers to upload their invoices for consideration in the prize draws. To ensure validity, the uploaded invoices should contain essential information such as the seller’s GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number), invoice number, amount paid, and tax details.

Promoting a Responsible Consumer Culture

At its core, the ‘Mera Bill Mera Adhikar’ scheme aspires to create a positive shift in consumer behavior. By motivating individuals to actively seek legitimate invoices, the scheme promotes accountability, curtails tax evasion, and contributes to the growth of the formal economy. Furthermore, the initiative strengthens the government’s efforts to streamline GST processes and increase revenue collection.

MCQs about ‘Mera Bill Mera Adhikar’ GST Reward Scheme

Question 1: What is the main objective of the ‘Mera Bill Mera Adhikar’ GST Reward Scheme?

a) Encouraging consumers to upload invoices

b) Promoting transparency in financial transactions

c) Empowering GST-registered suppliers

d) Introducing a new tax identification number

Question 2: In which states and union territories will the ‘Mera Bill Mera Adhikar’ scheme be initially introduce?

a) Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Rajasthan

b) Assam, Gujarat, and Haryana

c) Delhi, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh

d) Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh

Question 3: What is the minimum purchase value will be require for an invoice to be eligible for the lucky draw under the scheme?

a) Rs 100

b) Rs 150

c) Rs 200

d) Rs 250

Question 4: Which essential information should the uploaded invoices contain for validity?

a) Buyer’s contact details

b) Seller’s bank account number

c) Invoice description

d) Seller’s GSTIN, invoice number, amount paid, and tax details

Question 5: Apart from encouraging consumer accountability, what other purpose does the ‘Mera Bill Mera Adhikar’ scheme serve?

a) Promoting international trade

b) Encouraging tax evasion

c) Increasing informal economy growth

d) Strengthening GST processes and revenue collection

Read also:- Goods and Service Tax (GST) & it’s types