PM Imran rejects “Rs. 1” tax on phone calls, tasks FBR to collect Rs. 1 trillion via additional taxes

Exhibiting deep concern for the welfare of the general public, PM Imran rejected a proposal to deduct Rs. 1 on each phone call on account of the education levy in the upcoming federal budget for 2021-22. Pakistanis took a deep sigh of relief, considering they already pay Rs.30 tax on each Rs.100 of mobile services – the highest in the world, appreciated the PM for saving them from what could have been an additional burden on their pockets.

However, it is to be noted that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has been tasked to collect additional revenue of over Rs. 1 trillion in the next budget through the withdrawal of exemptions in sales tax, income tax, and the minimization concessionary tax rates.

According to details, the PM’s National Task Force on Science Technology and Knowledge Economy – headed by renowned scientist Dr. Attaur Rehman – had proposed that an education levy be imposed on every call from landline or mobile phone. The move was suggested as part of an effort to collect funds for promoting literacy, education, and knowledge economy.

In a related development, PM Imran approved an Rs. 2.1 trillion development budget for the financial year 2021-22 with Rs. 31 billion to develop Science and Technology.

Source: Express Tribune

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