The government is in the works of a framework that will most likely ensure trouble-free customs clearances for non-resident Indians who are bothered by customs for carrying 'too much' gold. Strict norms that were placed to stop gold smuggling through personal baggage, has posed troubles particularly for families. A senior finance ministry official said, "We are examining the norms. We understand that some people get jewellery for weddings and take it back as well."
The move is a part of CBEC's ease-of-doing-business plan that focuses on removing unnecessary hurdles. A series of measures have already been taken to make customs clearances easier, and less time-consuming, including risk-based checks by agencies like the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India for food imports. Passengers who want to bring their jewellery back have to undergo cumbersome procedures at ports. They have to get the jewellery photographed and complete paperwork at a separate counter.
The government now finds itself between wanting to allow easy movement of gold and other priced metals, and ensure the new norm is not used for smuggling. Various options are being explored, which means that based on the valuation of jewellery, duty could be paid on entry and refunded when the person returns. This way, even if jewellery is brought in and not taken back, customs duty would have been paid.
