Overview The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) , under the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, has achieved significant results under the Special Campaign 5.0 for Swachhata and Disposal of Pending Matters. This campaign, conducted across all field formations of the Income Tax Department, focused on institutionalising Swachhata, streamlining record management, and ensuring the disposal of pending matters. Key Developments Campaign Phases The campaign was carried out in two phases: Preparatory Phase: 15th–30th September 2025 - Regional offices identified campaign sites, compiled scrap and e-waste inventories, and listed records for digitization or weeding. Implementation Phase: 2nd–31st October 2025 - Widespread participation led to cleanliness drives, disposal of old records, and adoption of eco-friendly practices. Achievements Cleanliness Campaigns: A total of 1,521 campaigns were conducted against the target of 947 , achieving 160% . Space Optimization: The CBDT freed up 1.67 lakh sq. ft. of office space. Revenue Generation: Earned revenue of ₹32.0 lakh from the sale of scrap and obsolete materials. Records Management: About 2.30 lakhs of physical files were weeded out, and more than 10,000 e-files were closed. Public Grievance Redressal: Disposed of 21,251 public grievances, surpassing the initial target of 20,954 cases, and resolved 831 public grievance appeals. Innovative Initiatives Digital File Inventory and Space Optimization (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana): The Office of the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax launched a QR code–based File Inventory Mobile App . Over 10,000 records were indexed into a digital database. This initiative was recognized by DARPG as a best practice. Transformation of Waste Area into Conference Hall (Kolkata): The Income Tax Office transformed a neglected area into a modern conference hall named “Indraprastha.” Fitness Studio Inaugurated (Kochi): A modern Fitness Studio was created at the Income Tax Residential Complex in Kerala. Modern Crèche Facility Inaugurated (Pune): A previously unused room was refurbished into a modern crèche at the Income Tax Office. Walkathon on Swachhata Awareness (Vijayawada): Income Tax office organized a Swachhata Awareness Walkathon on 15th October 2025 , flagged off by Telugu film star Shri Srikanth . Creation of ‘Madhukar’ Mascot (Jaipur): ‘Madhukar’, the mascot of the Department, crafted from discarded office materials. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to the UPSC syllabus under the following headings: GS2: Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors. GS3: Economy - Government Budgeting. GS4: Ethics and Human Interface - Accountability and ethical governance. Key Takeaways for UPSC Aspirants The Special Campaign 5.0 showcases the government's commitment to improving efficiency and cleanliness in government offices. The use of technology, such as the QR code–based File Inventory Mobile App , highlights the importance of digital solutions in governance. The focus on employee welfare, through initiatives like fitness studios and crèche facilities, demonstrates a holistic approach to governance.