<h1>CBEC Introduces Measures for Easier Trade: Faster Registration, Extended CENVAT Credit, Digital Records, and Rationalized Penalties.</h1> The Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) has implemented several measures to enhance trade and ease of doing business. These include subsuming education cess into basic excise duty, granting excise registration within two days, and allowing digital signatures and electronic record-keeping. Electronic payment of duties is now available to all assessees, and the time limit for claiming CENVAT credit has been extended. Direct dispatch of goods is facilitated, and penalties have been rationalized. Provisions for installment payments of arrears and withdrawal of prosecution under certain conditions have been introduced. Industry-specific clarifications include excise duty exemptions for fertilizers and goods supplied under International Competitive Bidding.