Bangalore: Paying tax is not only a responsibility but also a way to contribute to the nation. Unlike the other socials duties, paying tax will soon be added in the list of 11, as a fundamental duty, which every Indian have.

The finance ministry believes that this move will increase the compliance in Indians for paying tax and will encourage them. According to the government report, India has 33.73 million income taxpayers, which is less than even 3 percent of the entire population of the country, reports ET.

"There are various fundamental duties laid down for citizens in the constitution...We are looking at including paying taxes the list in the same way,” said a Finance Ministry Official, as quoted by ET.

The tax-to-GDP ratio of India is one of the lowest among its neighboring nation, which fell to 10.1 percent in 2011-2012 from a high of 11.9 percent in 2007-08. This is basically because of multiple tax exemptions allowed over a tax rates, which reduces the tax liability of a tax payers and hence he pays lesser tax.

According to tax experts, the government plans that paying tax will soon be made a fundamental duty, will increase awareness among the citizens about why paying tax is necessary and how by paying taxes ,  they can contribute to nation’s development.

'Fundamental duties are not a legal obligation, but there is a social responsibility with them. There is no legal remedy available but law-abiding citizens will abide with them,'' said Sunil Jain, partner, Jyoti Sagar & Assosiates.

The finance ministry has proposed an amendment of including a relevant chapter in school curriculum about Taxes and why is essential for nation’s building.  This initiative by the government will create tax awareness in the citizens of India from a bugging age.