Govt asks Customs to clear CWG consignments on holidays also

Mon, Aug 09 10 08:51 PM

New Delhi, Aug 9 (PTI) With only 54 days left to go for the Commonwealth Games, the Revenue Department today asked Customs authorities to clear import items related to the October sporting extravaganza even on holidays. "In order to ensure smooth conduct of the Commonwealth Games, the clearance of import consignments connected with the Games shall be allowed on holidays...," the Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) said in circular. The CBEC also suggested that the Commissioners of Customs appoint nodal officers to monitor clearance of consignments imported for the purpose of the games. In February, the government had allowed duty-free imports of all sports goods and equipment, including fitness items, by the Organising Committee of the Games 2010 and national sports federations. The exemption from import duty has also been extended to arms and ammunition for shooting events, broadcasting equipment by Prasar Bharti and doping control equipment. The CBEC also clarified that duty-free benefits would not be available to suppliers, contractors or vendors appointed by the Organising Committee. The CWG will be held in the national capital from October 3-14.

Source: Published>