IT Department organises cyclothon as part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav

IMPHAL, Dec 13 (PIB)
The Income Tax Department organised a cyclothon from Imphal to Moirang yesterday as a part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
The Cyclothon was flagged off at 7 am jointly by the guests of honour—renowned International Cyclist C Rameshwori Devi; and popular actors Biju Ningombam and Bonny Gurumayum— along with GG Kamei, IRS, Commissioner of Income Tax (Administration), Guwahati.
The Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, North East Region, Guwahati had been organising a series of Cyclothon events across the North East Region during the period December 6 to 12, 2021covering prominent places and monuments of national importance in the region and creating awareness on “Transparency in Taxation”.  
More than 200 cyclists participated in the Cyclothon which commenced from Shahid Minar, Imphal and culminated at INA Memorial, Moirang. The participants included L Ibomcha Singh, Dronacharya Awardee in Boxing and Shamjetsabam Sarjubala Devi, former World Youth Boxing Champion among other dignitaries.
The message of “Transparency in Taxation” was spread through announcements and distribution of pamphlets to the general public along the route.
The cyclists were supported by hydration points, support vehicles, ambulances and volunteers all along the route of the Cyclothon.
The participants offered floral tributes to freedom fighters at the historic site in INA Memorial, Moirang where the national Tricolor was hoisted for the first time on Indian soil on April 14, 1944.  
Certificates and medals were distributed to the participants at the closing ceremony held at Sendra.  
In line with the noble spirit behind Azadika Amrit Mahotsav, a Cultural Fest-cum felicitation ceremony was held in the evening at Hotel Imphal by-the-Classic, Imphal to celebrate the indomitable spirit of freedom; the glorious history of the country, its culture and achievements.
GG Kamei delivered the keynote address on the occasion wherein she acknowledged and appreciated the important role played by taxpayers in nation building.
She highlighted the initiatives taken by the Income Tax Department towards better delivery of taxpayer services and grievance redressal. Carrying forward the message of “Transparency in Taxation”, she spoke about the reforms in tax administration including introduction of a faceless regime in the Department. Acknowledging the contributions made by eminent citizens belonging to different walks of life towards nation building, she stated that the Department is proud and privileged to honour the eminent achievers.  
The Cultural Fest saw scintillating performances by troupes of Guru Rewben Mashangva, Lourembam Bedabati Devi, Manipuri Jagoi Marup, Rhythms of Manipur and Folk Ensemble Manipur.  
The Cultural Evening concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.