KL NEWS NETWORK
SRINAGAR
A delegation of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry( KCC&I) headed by its President Mushtaq Ahmad Wani met Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, today. A statement of the organization issued here said the KCC&I raised the issues relating to Industrial Policy-2016, proposed GST law, return of power projects, LOC trade, handicrafts, tourism and “venomous anti-Kashmiri propaganda” by some sections of national media.
“KCC&I requested the Chief Minister to associate Stakeholders while revisiting the controversial policy with special reference to Art. 370. KCC&I also expressed its concern on the applicability the proposed Goods & Services Tax law on the legislative powers of the State Legislature given our special status under Article 370. Moreover, J&K being predominantly a consumer State such a legislation will adversely affect the export, Handicrafts and Industrial sectors which needed to be addressed.”
The statement further said, the delegation also raised the problems being created for tourism sector by Shri Amarnath Shrine Board by being asked to fulfil un-necessary formalities like Income Tax Returns and other clearances. Chief Ministers intervention was sought for providing budgetary support for the crisis-ridden handicrafts sector whose exports has fallen by more than 35% during the past three years. It sought support for artisans and weavers who had fallen on bad times.
“The delegation sought Chief Ministers intervention to putting a stop to the venomous anti-Kashmiri propaganda being regularly carried on some national electronic media.”
The Chief Minister assured KCC&I that no compromise will be made on the special status of the State while reviewing the Industrial Policy in a way that the sensitivities of the local populace are not hurt. She sought KCC&I support in carrying forward her developmental agenda for the State. The delegation assured her of its support in implementing the people -friendly developmental programme.
The principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Naveen Chowdhary was present in the meeting.
