Question 1 · 10 marks · 177 words written
Opening · a definition
Windfall tax is a tax on unprecedented levels of profits made by some companies by illegitimate means.
ex- imposed on several MNCS & big tech during covid-19 times.
Body · points and prose
→ Effective redistribution of wealth by Windfall tax:-
(1.) Follows Hecenyian model of taking from rich & giving to poor.
(2.) Progressive taxation as taxes those who gained higher income → promotes inclusive growth
(3.) Profiteers pay principle upheld ex- Defence industry during Russia-Ukraine war to be levied with this tax.
→ Not effective redistribution
(4.) Uncertainty of use of collections from such taxes for vulnerable ex- such collects may be siphoned to other needs.
(5.) can lead to Tax evasions, profit shifting
(6.) Will reduce GFCF (33%) & thus reduce capital formation due to flight of such industries
(7.) Reduce Ease of doing business
Way forward
- Promote CSR and ESG efforts by companies
- follow behavioural economics to improve tax to GDP collection
- incorporate in GST slabs (28%)
Close · a way forward
"Taxation is the economic string crucial to maintain the social contract in economic sphere" - Eco survey '17