- Seeks capping of package for local traders, industrialists to empower regional growth
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Gaurav Gupta, former General Secretary of the Chamber of Commerce and industry , Jammu on Sunday lauded the proactive steps taken by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in seeking the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and the Department for Promotion of Industrial and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to raise the industrial package granted to Jammu and Kashmir.
With the exhaustion of initial industrial package of Rs 28,400 crore following the registration of 971 units, Gaurav Gupta expressed his strong support for the Lt Governor’s request to escalate the package to Rs 75,000 crore. He emphasized that this move is crucial to sustaining the momentum of industrial development in the region and addressing the growing demand from prospective entrepreneurs.
In a press statement issued here today, the former General Secretary pointed out that nearly 300 proposals are currently awaiting approval, underscoring the urgent need for the expanded financial package to facilitate further registrations and investments.
“This decisive step by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha highlights the commitment of the Jammu and Kashmir administration to foster industrial growth and create a robust business environment. By seeking a Rs 75,000 crore industrial package, the government is ensuring that the momentum gained over the past few years continues and that Jammu and Kashmir remains a top investment destination,” he added.
Gaurav emphasized the need to ensure that some portion of this enhanced industrial package should be reserved specifically for the local traders and industrialists of Jammu and Kashmir.
He pointed out that the local business community often struggles to compete with large-scale industrialists from across the country due to resource constraints and the topography of the region.
He also emphasized that the reserved portion of the industrial package should be time-bound in its usage to ensure optimal and efficient utilization.
“It is crucial that local entrepreneurs and industrialists are given their fair share of opportunities under this package. By capping a portion of the package for local stakeholders will not only boost their morale but also enable them to grow and contribute more effectively to the region’s economy,” he said.
The former General Secretary further appealed to all trade and industrialist organizations in Jammu and Kashmir to unite on a single platform and collectively approach the Lt. Governor to advocate for this reservation. Highlighting the importance of solidarity, he stated that a unified effort would strengthen their voice and ensure that the local “sons of the soil” are empowered and motivated to actively participate in the region’s industrial resurgence.
Gaurav reiterated his confidence in the Lt. Governor’s leadership and commitment to the welfare of the region.
“Lt. Governor Sinha’s timely initiative to seek an enhanced industrial package demonstrates his vision for a progressive Jammu and Kashmir. Capping a portion of the upcoming package for local stakeholders will further ensure that the fruits of development reach everyone, fostering inclusive growth,” he added.
Gaurav asserted that the Rs. 75,000 crore industrial package, if approved, will be a game-changer for Jammu and Kashmir, boosting employment, encouraging entrepreneurship, and cementing the region’s position as a hub for industrial innovation.
He called for continued collaboration between the government and local stakeholders to achieve this shared vision.