Jammu: Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani on Thursday held an interaction with representatives of industrial and trade associations from Jammu province to discuss issues concerning the industrial sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
During the interaction, representatives of various industrial associations raised concerns regarding the growth and sustainability of industries in the Union Territory and highlighted the absence of a fiscal package for industries in J&K.
They expressed hope that the proposed Logistics Policy and Public Procurement Policy under formulation would address several challenges faced by industries in the region.
Issues related to extension in EM-I registrations for units allotted land at Balole Industrial Estate and introduction of auto-renewal mechanisms for Green Category Units were also raised during the meeting.
The industrial representatives also suggested development of dedicated trekking tourism routes and emphasised promotion of local and traditional industries, particularly the woollen sector.
Addressing the gathering, the advisor stressed the government’s commitment towards improving ease of doing business and making industries in J&K more vibrant and competitive.
Nasir Aslam Wani said industrial growth should translate into employment generation and called for promotion of localised industries, especially agro-based and wool-based sectors.
Representatives also sought continuation of turnover incentives and requested the government to take up pending registrations under the New Central Sector Scheme with the Centre.
They further stressed the need for leveraging artificial intelligence, promoting e-commerce and focusing on the service sector in the Union Territory.
The meeting was attended by Managing Director J&K SIDCO/SICOP Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar, Director Industries and Commerce Jammu Arun Manhas, President Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jammu Arun Gupta and representatives of various industrial bodies.
Later, several public delegations and individuals also met the advisor at the Civil Secretariat Jammu and projected their demands and grievances.
A delegation of the Non-Teaching Employees Union of University of Jammu raised service-related issues, while Chairman of the All J&K Transport Welfare Association Karan Singh highlighted concerns of the transport sector.
Former President of Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry Rakesh Gupta also met the advisor and raised issues related to amendments in the Society Act.
A delegation from Mohalla Welfare Committee Gujjar Nagar sought early release of compensation for families affected by floods last year.
The advisor assured all delegations that their genuine demands would be examined and addressed on priority and directed concerned departments to take appropriate action in a time-bound manner.
