Finance Minister Mr. Pranab Mukherjee has called upon the officers and staff of the Central Excise Department to maintain highest standards of efficiency and devotion to duty. In his message on the occasion of Central Excise Day today, Mr. Mukherjee said that the Central Excise Department plays a vital role in the economic growth and development of the country. He said that the department has enabled transparent, efficient and hassle-free tax administration for the trade and industry over the years.