Published Paper Details:

Taxation prevailed in India since ancient times in one form or another. Manu Smruti's , the most authoritative book on Hindu code gave a detailed analysis on the subject clearly showing the existence of a well - planned taxation system, even in ancient times, where taxes were paid in the shape of gold - coins, cattle, grains, raw-materials and also by rendering personal service by all the class of people. Arthasastra, the extensively offered book on statecraft, economic policy and military strength also advocated to a variety of tax measures. On the contrary, history has witnessed the unfortunate struggle between the state - the collector and the subjects- the tax payer for the payment of the taxes. In the present paper an attempt has been made to throw light on prevailing personal income tax structure in India. The paper briefly analyses the issues relating to high tax burden on people falling under low and medium income groups.