Revenue Receipts
Revenue receipts are key components of the government budget defined as all revenues that do not result in a government liability, hence termed as non-redeemable. These receipts are mainly classified into two broad categories: tax revenues and non-tax revenues.
Tax Revenues
Tax revenues consist of direct taxes, such as personal income tax and corporate tax, as well as indirect taxes, including excise duties, customs duties, and service tax. Certain direct taxes like wealth tax and gift tax, although classified under direct taxes, have negligible contributions, hence are termed ‘paper taxes’. The government adopts a progressive taxation system where individuals with higher incomes pay a higher percentage in taxes. Indirect taxes are generally structured so that basic necessities are either exempt from tax or taxed at lower rates, while luxury goods incur heavier taxation.
Non-Tax Revenues
Aside from taxes, non-tax revenues include government income from various sources such as interest from loans, dividends from government investments, fees for services rendered, and foreign grants. Understanding the classification and implications of revenue receipts is vital as they form the backbone of fiscal policy, enabling the government to redistribute income and influence economic stability. These receipts are essential in budgeting, and the forecasts related to them play a crucial role in shaping fiscal policies.