New Delhi, September 16 (Daily Kiran) : Central Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the need for the Indian Tax Research and Advisory Foundation (ITRAF) to enhance its role in international taxation discussions. Speaking at ITRAF’s 8th International Tax Conference in Bengaluru, she urged the organization to transition from its previously quiet contributions to a more visible and impactful presence in policy-making and public dialogue.
Sitharaman stated that the high-quality insights produced by ITRAF should not only reach policymakers but also resonate with the general public. “My first request to ITRAF is very simple. You have contributed quietly until now, and I urge you to make your contributions more apparent,” she remarked.
The Finance Minister acknowledged that while ITRAF’s work has already engaged professionals in the field, it is crucial for the organization to expand its outreach to the broader community. “I understand that your insights are of high quality and have reached professionals, but they must also enter the policy-making process and reach the public,” she added.
Highlighting the expertise within ITRAF, Sitharaman noted that the organization comprises former CFOs and tax heads from some of India’s leading technology firms, senior lawyers, partners from major professional firms, and educators who have trained generations of tax specialists. “These are the giants in the field,” she said, pointing out their consistent contributions to international taxation over the past decade.
The Minister also referenced ITRAF’s published works, mentioning that the foundation has released seven volumes, with introductions penned by globally recognized experts in international taxation. Additionally, she discussed ITRAF’s international collaborations, noting that its conferences are conducted in partnership with institutions in The Hague, the London School of Economics, and the Chartered Institute of Taxation in London.
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