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“inner sight” on how the government functions from within.

“Many junior economists nowadays apparently don’t see anything (good). I know all of them. I’ve been teaching since the 1970s. They’re all my students,” he said.

“To see, one needs vision. One requires inner sight. If someone doesn’t want to see, they won’t be able to,” he added.

The seminar was organised by the NBR to highlight recent changes brought about in income tax, VAT, and customs regulations through the current fiscal year’s budget, as well as to inaugurate e-return submissions for the current tax year.

Speaking at the event, the adviser acknowledged that the government makes mistakes.

“We make many mistakes, and that’s okay. But it feels good when good initiatives are encouraged. Constructive criticism is always welcome.”

Noting that everyone has the freedom to speak, the adviser called on to see the progress as well, instead of just the lackings. “Don’t just look at the empty part of the glass, see that it is also half full.”

The adviser also spoke stated that the NBR has made it mandatory for individual taxpayers to submit their income tax returns online.

However, this rule does not apply to those aged 65 or above, individuals who are physically unfit, or Bangladeshi taxpayers residing abroad.

“I’m over 65 years old, so maybe I’ll get a bit of tax exemption,” Ahmed said, calling for the online tax return process to be made more user-friendly.

Economic Reporters Forum President Doulot Akter Mala also spoke at the programme.