THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Finance Minister KN Balagopal has said that although the GST cannot be increased, the state government will increase tax revenue by implementing a multi-pronged action plan to curb tax leakage. He was speaking at a press conference after the budget presentation.

"Compared to January last year, tax revenue has increased by 14 per cent this year. We can achieve the targeted tax revenue by preventing tax leakage. The e-way bill will be streamlined even as processes, including inspection at shops, continue. The inspections will be strengthened by monitoring stock inspections and other activities to identify potential tax returns. For example, by calculating the number of gas cylinders purchased by a hotel, we can calculate its sales rate. In this way, tax efficiency can be ensured by checking the purchase bills and customer rush," the minister said.

"The opening of the Science Park and IT Park will also pave the way for attracting private investors to the state along with skill development. Several hotels are functioning in the private sector. The government is of the view there is nothing wrong with extending private investment to other sectors," the minister added.