In a move to enhance compliance during the ongoing tax season, the Income Tax Department has begun tracking online visits of taxpayers and filtering PANs (Permanent Account Numbers) to ensure timely filing of returns, revealed CBDT Chairman Ravi Agrawal.
I-T Department Now Tracking Online Visits to Nudge Taxpayers: CBDT Chairman
Speaking to The Indian Express, Agrawal stated that the department is leveraging data analytics and digital behaviour monitoring to identify taxpayers who have not yet filed their Income Tax Returns (ITR). By observing user activity on the tax portal, such as login frequency, the department is aiming to send personalised nudges reminding individuals to complete the filing process before the deadline.
“The objective is to make compliance easier and proactive. We are not waiting for people to delay or default,” said Agrawal.
How the Monitoring Works
Officials are using AI-powered systems to monitor which PAN holders are visiting the income tax portal and whether they are completing their returns. The system identifies gaps and sends soft nudges in the form of SMS and emails, reminding users of pending tasks.
This strategy is part of a broader compliance management initiative where tax authorities are adopting a more predictive and preventive approach, replacing older reactive models.
Impact and Intention
With the ITR filing deadline extended to September 15, 2025, for most individuals and HUFs not requiring audit, this move is seen as a digital push to ease the process and improve voluntary compliance.
The department is also filtering PANs based on income levels, previous filing history, and high-value transactions, allowing it to focus efforts on taxpayers who are more likely to default or delay.
The CBDT believes this initiative will reduce the need for enforcement and scrutiny later while also enhancing trust and convenience in the tax ecosystem.
