The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has secured the Gold Prize in the ‘Public Outreach and Communication’ category at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025, recognising its innovative communication strategy, wider citizen engagement, and impactful public awareness efforts. The award was announced today in New Delhi.
Held between 14–27 November 2025, the GST & Customs Pavilion emerged as one of the most visited and discussed attractions at IITF, successfully bridging the gap between tax administration and the public. The Pavilion was built on the theme “Next-Gen GST: सरल कर, खुशहाल राष्ट्र”, reflecting the Government of India’s vision for a simplified, technology-driven and citizen-friendly indirect tax system.
A Pavilion That Turned Tax Awareness Into Public Conversation
Designed as a highly interactive learning space, the Pavilion enabled taxpayers, students, businesses and curious visitors to explore recent reforms in GST and Customs through digital tools, multilingual content and engaging activities. The impressive footfall—comprising people from varied professional and demographic backgrounds—highlighted growing public interest in understanding GST reforms and CBIC’s modernisation initiatives.
Major Features That Captivated Visitors
1. Comprehensive Helpdesks for Real-Time Problem Solving
Eight specialised helpdesks from GST, Customs, GSTN, ICEGATE and CPGRAMS helped visitors resolve issues related to registration, refund processes, return filing, grievance redressal and import–export procedures. The on-spot support drew appreciation from businesses and new taxpayers alike.
2. Multilingual Educational Resources
To ensure inclusivity, CBIC showcased detailed learning modules—videos, demonstrations and guides—in 10 regional languages along with Hindi and English. These simplified complex compliance steps, making them accessible even for first-time taxpayers.
3. Immersive Digital Installations
Large digital screens, dashboards and interactive panels displayed CBIC’s policy reforms, technological advancements and service delivery improvements. Visitors could navigate through explanations of e-invoicing, fraud detection systems, customs modernisation and trade facilitation tools.
4. Awareness Through Creative Engagement
In an effort to make compliance education enjoyable, the Pavilion featured magic shows, puppet presentations, quizzes, caricature stalls, VR games and selfie corners. Informative brochures and takeaway materials further enhanced visitor understanding.
5. Youth Outreach and Career Orientation
Special sessions for students introduced them to career opportunities in CBIC, explaining the organisation’s role in revenue administration, enforcement and facilitation of international trade.
CBIC Reiterates Commitment to Citizen-Centric Governance
Following the Gold Award recognition, CBIC extended its appreciation to the thousands of visitors, partner institutions and stakeholders who contributed to the Pavilion’s success. The nodal body reaffirmed its commitment to simplifying GST compliance, strengthening transparency and building a more service-oriented taxation ecosystem.
With the success of the 2025 Pavilion, CBIC has reinforced its position as a leader in public outreach within government institutions—showcasing how technology, communication and inclusive design can transform complex subjects into accessible civic knowledge.
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