Central Excise Day 2026: Why 24 February Still Matters in India’s Tax System

India will observe Central Excise Day 2026 on 24 February 2026 to mark the historic Central Excise Act, 1944. This day recognises the contribution of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) in tax administration and revenue collection. Even after the introduction of GST, Central Excise remains important for specific goods like petroleum and tobacco. Central Excise Day 2026 highlights the role of CBIC officers in ensuring transparency, preventing smuggling and strengthening India’s financial system.

History Behind Central Excise Day 2026

Central Excise Day 2026 commemorates the enactment of the Central Excise and Salt Act on 24 February 1944, which later became the Central Excise Act in the 1944. This law consolidated multiple earlier excise related laws into one framework.

Key historical facts linked to Central Excise Day 2026 include,

• The Act unified 11 different excise laws.
• It laid down rules for levy and collection of excise duty.
• It created a structured administrative system for tax officers.
• It strengthened revenue collection during the pre-independence period.

Central Excise Day 2026 reminds citizens of the evolution of India’s indirect tax system.

Purpose of Central Excise Day 2026

The main objective of Central Excise Day 2026 is to recognize the services of CBIC and its officers. The day promotes awareness about the importance of indirect taxation in nation-building.

The purpose includes,

• Appreciating CBIC officers for maintaining tax compliance
• Encouraging transparency and integrity in tax administration
• Spreading awareness about excise and customs duties
• Highlighting reforms in tax technology and digital systems

Central Excise Day 2026 also motivates officers to perform their duties with dedication and accountability.

Role of CBIC on Central Excise Day 2026

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) functions under the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance. On Central Excise Day 2026, special focus is given to its contributions.

CBIC is responsible for,

• Collection of Customs Duty
• Administration of Central Excise Duty
• Implementation of Central GST (CGST) and IGST
• Prevention of smuggling and illegal trade
• Policy formulation related to indirect taxes

Central Excise Day 2026 highlights how CBIC integrates traditional excise systems with modern GST reforms.

Central Excise Day 2026 in the GST Era

After the introduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017, many indirect taxes were merged into GST. However, Central Excise Duty continues to apply to specific goods such as,

• Petroleum products
• Tobacco products
• Certain industrial goods

Central Excise Day 2026 reflects how India’s tax system has evolved from excise-based taxation to a GST-driven structure. The day acknowledges both historical foundations and modern tax reforms.

How Central Excise Day 2026 Is Observed

On Central Excise Day 2026, various programmes are organized across India by CBIC offices and related institutions.

Activities usually include,

• Seminars and workshops on tax reforms
• Awareness campaigns about customs and GST
• Cultural and educational programmes
• Award ceremonies honouring officers

Central Excise Day 2026 serves as a platform to connect tax administration with citizens and industries.

Central Excise System in India

• Central Excise is a form of indirect tax imposed on goods manufactured within India.
• It was historically one of the major sources of revenue for the central government before GST.
• The Central Excise Act, 1944 provides the legal framework for its implementation.
• Though GST replaced many indirect taxes, excise duty remains applicable on select items like petroleum and tobacco.
• The administration of this tax falls under CBIC, which also manages customs and GST operations across the country.

Question

Q. Central Excise Day 2026 is observed on which date?

A) 26 January
B) 24 February
C) 15 August
D) 1 April