### 📈 Excise Department Reaches Consensus on Digitalisation and Modernisation

All trade unions within the Excise Department have officially agreed to a comprehensive digitalisation and modernisation programme aimed at boosting national revenue collection. The consensus follows high-level discussions at the Presidential Secretariat to streamline operations and enhance transparency. • Revenue & Efficiency: The primary objective is to increase excise revenue collection by improving departmental efficiency through technology. This includes implementing new reforms and a robust digitalisation process. • Modernisation Initiatives: The programme focuses on the Revenue Administration Reform and Modernization Bureau’s proposals to transition from manual to digital systems, addressing longstanding gaps in tax collection. • Officer Welfare: Beyond technology, the plan incorporates human resource development and the welfare of officers to ensure smooth implementation and long-term sustainability. • Stakeholder Alignment: The agreement involves the Director General of Excise, Mr. M. B. N. A. Premarathne, and representatives from all trade unions, signaling a unified approach to fiscal reform. _Status: Based on official reports from the Presidential Secretariat._ ---