To facilitate last minute filing of income tax returns by taxpayers, field income tax offices throughout India shall remain open on March 29, 30 and 31.

"In order to facilitate filing of return of income and other related work of taxpayers, the field officials have been asked to make special arrangements, including opening on additional counters required on March 29 (Saturday), March 30 (Sunday) and March 31 (Monday)," the Finance Ministry said in a statement.

In view of some parts of the country celebrating 'Gudi Padva' and 'Ugadi' on March 31, the offices would be open to receive I-T returns and other taxpayer related services, the statement added.

The measures have been taken by the apex policy making body of the Income Tax Department keeping in view the aim of collecting as much revenue as possible before the current financial year closes on March 31.