KATHUA, MAY 03 (KNO) : Industries Association Kathua felicitated Deputy Chief Minister Kavinder Gupta, who is holding the charge of Industries & Commerce and Transport departments, along with Minister for Forests, Environment and Ecology, Rajiv Jasrotia, here today.
On the occasion, the association led by its president raised various issues including overloading of existing 120 MVA transformer at Hatli Morh power grid station, availability of power at newly established Industrial Estate Ghati, construction of railway over bridge on Hatli road, continuation of various benefits to the industries as presently getting in VAT system after implementation of new GST regime in the State and benefits to cement industry under new industrial policy. The association also demanded a suitable piece of land for establishing the office of the Association within the industrial estate. Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister said that the present dispensation is focused on modernizing existing industries and due attention is being given on establishing new industries as they will drive the growth. He also asked the industrialists to come forward to respond to the changes which would come on account of latest technical interventions which is synonymous with smart manufacturing. Kavinder assured that all out efforts will be made to stop migration of youth to other states in search of jobs as the government is leaving no stone unturned to develop industrial sector in the state so that unemployed educated youth can earn his livelihood without leaving his home.
“Tourism and Industry are revenue generating sectors and provide opportunities for employment so it is high time the unemployed youth should take benefit of various skill development schemes launched by the State as well as Central government, said Deputy Chief Minister adding that their issues will be discussed at appropriate forum for early redressal and assured them that Government will create industry friendly atmosphere for the industrialists and budding entrepreneurs who are interested in setting up of business units in the State. Speaking on the occasion, Rajiv Jasrotia said that Forests department plays an important role in regulating industries which doesn`t mean that they will discourage establishing new industries. He also called for improved coordination between Industries Department and Pollution Control Board so that the process of granting all requisite permissions and No Objection Certificates to the interested investors can be issued in shortest possible time.
Rajiv also said that government is fully committed to further promote industries in the state. He further said government is aware of the problems of industrialists, especially those of small scale industries, and every possible effort will be made for the growth of this important sector which is immensely contributing for boosting the economy and employment generation in the State. He called upon them to focus on quality control and develop the spirit of competitiveness for sustenance in the market. Deputy Chief Minister along with Forests Minister on the occasion felicitated the meritorious students who excelled in CBSE class 10th and 12th exams. DC Kathua Rohit Khajuria, SSP, Shridhar Patil, DFOs, Officers from Industries and Forest Department besides industrialists in large number were present on the occasion.