The government on Monday unveiled the Rs 1,435 crore PAN 2.0 Project. The project unveiled by Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw aims to transform the Permanent Account Number (PAN) into a “common business identifier” for all digital systems of government agencies.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the initiative under the Income Tax Department. Announcing the project, Vaishnaw highlighted its focus on technology-driven taxpayer registration services, ensuring ease of access, faster service delivery and improved quality.
Will your old PAN still work?
If you’re wondering whether you need to apply for a new PAN card or if your current one will become invalid, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has clarified that there is no need to change your existing PAN number. However, you will receive a new PAN card as part of the upgrade process.
The updated PAN card will come with new features, including a QR code for enhanced functionality. The best part is that this upgrade will be free of cost and the new card will be delivered directly to you, ensuring a seamless transition to the improved system.
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“The existing system will be upgraded and the digital backbone will be brought in a new way… We will try to make it a common business identifier. There will be a unified portal, it will be completely paperless and online. The emphasis will be on the grievance redressal system,” Vaishnaw said during a Cabinet briefing.
The PAN 2.0 Project seeks to achieve data consistency, eco-friendly processes and cost optimization while enhancing the security and agility of infrastructure. According to an official release, it aligns with the government’s Digital India vision by enabling PAN’s use as a common identifier across specified government digital systems.
The project represents an e-Governance upgrade, re-engineering PAN/TAN services to provide an enhanced digital experience for taxpayers. It consolidates existing PAN/TAN 1.0 systems, streamlining both core and non-core activities, and offering robust PAN validation services.
Currently, approximately 78 crore PANs have been issued, with 98% allocated to individuals.
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