In a significant stride towards strengthening India’s economic security, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary inaugurated the new state-of-the-art Headquarters Building of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in New Delhi on June 3, 2025.
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Sitharaman lauded the swift completion of the building and commended the DRI’s pivotal role in national security and safeguarding India’s economic frontiers. She urged DRI officers to embody the spirit of ‘Reform, Perform, and Transform,’ emphasizing three key imperatives for enforcement agencies:
- Harmony between Enforcement and Facilitation: Recognizing that these are not opposing forces.
- Holistic Investigations: Focusing on dismantling entire criminal syndicates rather than just isolated infractions.
- Ethical Enforcement: Rooting operations not only in data but also in “dharma,” signifying righteous conduct.
The Finance Minister stressed the importance of dismantling entire syndicates by reaching the “last mile” and highlighted the critical need for enhanced inter-agency cooperation and improved coordination with international counterparts to combat transnational economic crimes.
Tech Integration and Institutional Growth
Shri Pankaj Chaudhary praised the DRI’s rapid adoption of technology and data analytics, noting its respected position among law enforcement agencies globally. Shri Arvind Shrivastava, Secretary, Department of Revenue, underscored DRI’s contribution to a safe and secure economic environment, which is foundational to India’s journey towards a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).
Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Chairman, CBIC, emphasized that with robust indirect tax collections and a growing taxpayer base, the CBIC’s role in the country’s economic growth is expanding. He highlighted the necessity of infrastructural development and enhancing institutional capabilities to meet the evolving landscape.
A Modern and Sustainable Hub
Shri Abhai Kumar Srivastav, Director General, DRI, described the distinct features of the new headquarters, reaffirming DRI’s commitment to its core values of integrity, vigilance, and service to the nation.
The newly inaugurated building, spanning 6,200 sq. meters, is equipped with modern amenities and technological infrastructure designed to support the agency in combating complex financial crimes and cross-border illegal trade. It boasts a range of sustainable and energy-efficient features, including rainwater harvesting, a sewage treatment plant, and solar power panels. The design also prioritizes inclusivity and staff welfare, offering barrier-free access, ramps, elevators, and a crèche to support working parents.
