STATE TIMES NEWS
Jammu: Member Parliament Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Ali Khatana, on Sunday visited the Chamber House to engage with office bearers, senior members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), and representatives from various market associations. The interaction focused on addressing critical issues related to trade, industry, and the general public of the Jammu region. Khatana was welcomed by Arun Gupta, President of CCI. The participants expressed serious concern over the installation of smart meters and toll tax charged at Thandi Khoi and emphasized the need for reconsideration of both issues on priority. They also appealed for prompt restoration and operationalization of damaged bridge at Tarnah Nallah. The business community stressed the necessity of extending GST-linked incentives to existing industries for the survival and competitive edge of these industries in a highly competitive market landscape. They also demanded establishment of vital industries like the Rail Coach Factory and Defense Equipment Manufacturing Factory in Jammu, freight subsidies up to the National Capital. GST refund and interest subsidy issues were also part of the conversation, underscoring the importance of resolving these matters for smoother business operations. A forward-looking proposal was brought forth, suggesting the redefinition of “Khad Land” and the formulation of policies to enable commercial and construction activities on these lands. This step aimed at aligning with the vision of increased investment in the region, as envisioned by the Prime Minister of India. Additionally, concerns were raised about inflated circle rates set by the government, potentially hindering the establishment of industrial estates. This issue was seen as requiring prompt attention. The meeting delved into matters of urban development and tourism promotion. The participants urged for the acceleration of the beautification projects for Jammu City Lake and the River Tawi banks, along with the strategic promotion of tourism in the region, train connectivity of the Jammu-Haridwar route and the introduction of a new super-fast train from Rajasthan, particularly Jaipur, to facilitate pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi. Ghulam Ali Khatana assured the attendees that he had already engaged with the Power Development Department (PDD) regarding excess billing concerns. He expressed optimism that favourable orders would be issued soon. Addressing the toll plaza issue, he committed to taking up the matter with NHAI for swift resolution. Regarding the broader concerns raised during the meeting, he pledged to bring these to the attention of the relevant higher authorities for prompt redressal. The meeting was attended by various prominent figures, including Prithvi Raj Gupta (Former Secretary General CCI), Shiv Partap Gupta, Jagdish Langer, and Ravinder Sawhney (Senior Executive Committee Members), Rajeev Gupta (Junior Vice President CCI), Manish Gupta (Secretary General CCI), and Rajesh Gupta (Secretary and Treasurer CCI).
