ICC bats for 4% interest subvention for MSMEs

Mumbai: The two per cent interest subvention scheme for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) on loans was extended till March 31 next year with few business-friendly provisions.

The scheme has truly supported Indian MSMEs. The coverage of the scheme is limited to all term loans and working capital to the extent of Rs 100 lakh.

"We would like to propose that the scheme to be extended further with enhanced coverage. We request the government to consider 3-4 per cent interest subvention to the extent of 300 lakh," says Vikash Agarwal, president, Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC).

The MSME sector employs nearly 12 crore individuals. The expansion of the sector will further open job employment opportunities in the country. Since a key agenda of Interest Subvention scheme for MSME is to get them on-board the GST horizon, the relaxation will attract more MSMEs on board. Also, once on-board the GST platform, these units will become eligible to take part in any future aid pertaining to GST slabs.

Consequent to the reduction of corporate tax rates, the differential between personal and corporate tax rates has widened. The highest marginal rate for individuals has now gone up to 42.74 per cent against the normal Corporate Tax Rate of 25 per cent. Personal Taxation has become very complicated. Further, there are different rates of taxes depending upon the source of income. In addition to this, different rates of surcharge are applicable depending upon the total income and capital gains element in the total income both under the old and new tax regime.

According to Agarwal, "We would like to propose that the tax structure for individuals be simplified. This will also help in improving the compliance. Also, it is necessary to reduce the personal tax rates for individuals so that there is a degree of equity and fairness in relation to structuring decisions."

Dividend income now is currently taxable in the hands of resident assesses at the respective slab rates, whilst the same is subjected to tax for non-residents at the rate of 20 per cent or at lower rate where ever Tax Treaty so provides. Taxability on dividend income should be capped at the rate of 15 per cent for resident assesses as well.

There is a need to incentivise new employment - Taxpayers can currently claim deduction equal to 30 per cent of the amount of additional employee cost for employees having salary not more than Rs 25,000 per month under section 80JJAA of the Act. Salary levels across have increased substantially from 2016, and hence, threshold of Rs 25,000 per month should be raised to at least Rs 50,000 per month, ICC said in a statement.