Even though recession has hit the business sector, the state government is confident of matching last year's revenue collection figures. "Tax collection of all three departments sales, excise and transport indicates that we will achieve last year's revenue figures," said state finance minister Sunil Tatkare on Tuesday.

Addressing a press conference he said that Pune division, which covers almost 15 districts, has registered revenue of Rs 5,813 crore till November. The projected revenue generation for the division is Rs 7,430 crore and it will be achieved by the end of the financial year.

"Similarly the sales tax department's annual target of Rs 21,346 crore is also within reach," said Tatkare.

He said that in Pune division, the district's share is a whopping Rs 3,705 crore, which is an indication of the economy bouncing back.

According to Tatkare, the sales tax department is facing an acute manpower crunch. The department has over 35% vacant posts for officers. These will be filled by direct recruitment and promotions. The department also faces a staff crunch of grade three and four. Efforts would be made to fill up these posts before January 26, 2010, he added.

Tatkare spoke of the online method being used for submission of sales tax receipts. Over six lakh registered traders have been asked to fill up tax returns online in an electronic format. This is expected to reduce the problems faced by traders in physically filling up the returns and visiting the offices. The process has, therefore, become faster, clearer and more reliable, he said.