In a big push towards digitisation, Navi Mumbai's civic body has rolled out new initiatives that helped collect INR 212 crore in property tax in just three months. Under Dr. Kailash Shinde's leadership, the campaign used digital payment methods, a WhatsApp chatbot, and a revamped online portal to make payments easier. A unique touch: 200 women from self-help groups were trained to deliver bills and update records, boosting local employment. Over half the bills reached homes in just 30 days, encouraging early payments with a 10% discount. With SMS alerts, widespread publicity, and multiple payment options, NMMC is making tax payments simpler and more transparent.
In a significant stride towards digitisation and citizen empowerment, the Property Tax Department of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has launched a set of innovative initiatives that have led to the collection of INR 212 crore in property tax in the first quarter of the current financial year. The department has so far delivered property tax bills to two lakh owners, who have availed themselves of a 10 percent discount offered for early payments.
This initiative, carried out under the supervision of Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailash Shinde, enabled a smoother experience for taxpayers. Digital payment methods, mobile applications for KYC updates, a WhatsApp chatbot to access tax bills, and a user-friendly online tax portal have all contributed to this effort. Importantly, a unique feature of the campaign involved engaging 200 women from self-help groups to distribute tax bills directly to homes.
These women were specially trained to not only deliver bills but also collect and update owner data through mobile apps. They received remuneration per bill delivered, creating a dual benefit - efficient bill distribution and economic upliftment for women. Compared to previous years, this campaign ensured that over 50 percent of bills reached properties within just 30 days, boosting early payments significantly.
The use of SMS alerts also played a vital role. The civic body urged property owners to check their messages from the official @NMMC handle, which provided clickable links for instant tax payments. Property owners responded actively, and the updated KYC database enabled seamless digital communication and improved service delivery.
Further enhancing public outreach, NMMC leveraged hoardings, digital boards, advertisements, and public address jingles across city traffic signals. These efforts amplified awareness about the 10 percent rebate and simplified digital payment options, prompting a strong and timely response from taxpayers.
The WhatsApp chatbot introduced by the Corporation enabled taxpayers to access bills in four simple steps. By sending a simple "Hi" message to the designated number (8291920504), users could retrieve and pay their bills instantly, benefiting from the discount and avoiding last-minute rush.
In addition to UPI-based platforms like GPay, PhonePe, and Paytm, the corporation also accepts property tax payments via debit cards, credit cards, and official portals. These multi-platform integrations have contributed to a user-friendly and transparent tax system.
Municipal Commissioner Dr. Shinde has urged all property owners to take advantage of these facilities and pay their dues on time to receive the 10 percent rebate. This proactive, citizen-centric approach is designed to make tax compliance simpler and more inclusive, laying the groundwork for the city's continued infrastructural development.
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