Anantnag, Jul 27 (KNO): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said the government has taken concrete steps to address the concerns of Kashmir's cricket bat manufacturing industry.
Talking to the reporters here in South Kashmir, CM Omar, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the representatives of the Cricket Bat Manufacturers Association recently met him in Srinagar and raised several issues affecting the sector. “We have assured them sustained supply of raw material and uninterrupted electricity,” he added.
CM Omar said the foremost concern is the availability of willow wood, the principal raw material used in the manufacture of Kashmir's internationally renowned cricket bats.
The Chief Minister said that restrictions on replantation following extensive willow felling in the Wular area have created uncertainty over future raw material availability. “The government has worked out a mechanism to ensure the industry does not suffer from any shortage of willow in the coming years.”
CM Omar also said the issue of dependable electricity supply for manufacturing units was discussed during the meeting and appropriate decisions have been taken to provide a more reliable power supply to the sector along with providing first aid dispensary for the locals as labourers often receive injuries who have no option other than to visit Bijbehara or other health facilities which takes time.
"The cricket bat industry is an important source of employment and livelihood. We have addressed the concerns placed before us and taken decisions to safeguard its future," he said—(KNO)