` Chamber of Commerce and Industries,Jammu,Jammu and Kashmir,India
 
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Phone: 91-191-2472266
Telefax:91-191-2472255
Email:ccijammu@gmail.com
Address: OB 31 , Rail Head Complex , Jammu Tawi - 180012(J&K) India
















































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Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/24/2024                                                              Press Note                                                     19 April 2024


Sh. Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu met the Chief Secretary Sh. Atal Dulloo, IAS. During interaction Sh. Arun Gupta apprised the Chief Secretary that although the government is trying is level best for the development and beautification of Tawi River banks and creating a fresh water lake. The project needs to be expedited and more such projects are also required to be taken in hand to attract a pilgrims / tourists to the city of temples as in near future the train is going to be reach Kashmir Valley. Further the work on the Mubarak Mandi Heritage complex is going on at snails pace. We request that the work on the said project should be expedited and the light and sound system over there should also be started at the earliest. Sh. Arun Gupta also request that Patnitop should be developed as a tourist hub for which it is necessary to allow commercial activities over there on the pattern of Gulmarg and Pahalgam. Sh. Arun Gupta also apprised the Chief Secretary that Jammu has great potential for pilgrims and tourists which has remained untapped till now. Peer panchayal mountainous region of Jammu has vast tourists potential but has been neglected so far. We request that tourists potential of this region together with tourists attractive places in Poonch,Rajouri districts should be tapped in right earnest. Similarly religiously important places like Shiv Khori, Mata Vaishnoo Devi ,Sudh mahadev and tourists attractive places like Patni top, Sanasar should be inter connected by improving road and erecting picnic spots on route. Historical natural water lakes like Mansar & Surinsar should be developed on modern lines to attract tourists. Sh. Arun Gupta also pointed out that since last three decades the JDA as well as the Housing Board have not established any commercial area or residential colony due to which there is dearth of both commercial sites as well as residential area. The possibilities of same may be explored. Government should formulate a scheme allowing ownership rights of leasehold Industrial land to local sons of soil / entrepreneurs after a period of 25 years of first/ original allotment of land after charging a nominal amount as conversion fee. He also requested the Chief Secretary existing allottees of Warehouse should also be given ownership rights after charging reasonable premium. During interaction Sh. Arun Gupta briefed the Chief Secretary that inspite of depositing the prescribed fee by the allottee of Shiv Market Railway Station have not be executed since last more than `15 years the same should be expedited. He also apprised the Chief Secretary that the lease deeds of some allottees of Sabzi Mandi and Fruit Mandi Narwal have expired the same should be renewed after charging minimum possible premium. Further some allottees of Bahu Plaza commercial shops have not been given procession and lease deeds executed with them the same should also be expedited. Sh. Arun Gupta further apprised the Chief Secretary that Large chunk of land in Jammu have been declared as “Gair Mumkin Khud” by Revenue Department despite the fact that no water body is passing through these lands. Registration and Construction activities on these lands is barred. There is the need to redefine the “Kism” of this type of land and also a Policy should be formulated to allow the commercial and construction activities on those lands. The old bus stand building has been declared as unsafe. We request that steps should be taken to repair the said building to avoid any untoward incident. Further we request that this area of the bus stand should be developed into a new multistory project and the existing shopkeepers / businessmen working in the present building may be rehabilitated on the analogy of rehabilitating the shopkeepers of newly constructed/developed multistory projects so that their livelihood is not effected. Mr. Arun Gupta also said that the development work of Transport Nagar Narwal which is being carried by Jammu Metropolitan regional development authority through JDA is going on at a very slow pace. We request that the said work should be expedited and more funds be released on need basis to get the development work of Transport Nagar completed without any further delay. Sh. Arun Gupta also apprised the Chief Secretary that although the Union Government is very much concerned for the development of Jammu on modern lines for which they have provided many projects like flyovers etc. but at the same time we wish to request that the businessmen and general public of those areas should not feel inconvenience and harassed while constructing the expressway and flyovers besides should not hinder the emergency services and impact on daily commuters while constructing flyovers/expressway. Sh. Arun Gupta welcomed the move of UT Govt to waive off interest and surcharge on domestic power connections by introducing amnesty scheme. He also demanded power tariff amnesty scheme for the commercial users(Traders and Industrial Consumers) so that they get relief on this front. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that the government has announced a turnover incentives for the existing Industries for their survival and become viable but till date no turnover incentives has been given to any Industrial unit. We request that these incentives for the year 2021-22 and 2022-23 be released for the industries without any capping at the earliest.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/24/2024                                                              Press Note                                                     6 April 2024


CCI urges Govt to expedite Jammu Based tourism projects complete ongoing projects before start of Amarnathji Yatra In the meeting of the Office Bearers of CCI held today at Chamber House, Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI urged the government to prioritize and accelerate the completion of key tourism projects in Jammu, including the Artificial lake, Tawi river front project, the restoration of Mubarak Mandi, and other critical initiatives aimed at promoting tourism in the region. In light of the upcoming annual Amarnath Ji Yatra, Arun Gupta, President of CCI Jammu, emphasized the need for expediting the ongoing tourism projects in the city. He stated that timely completion of these projects would enable tourists to extend their stay in Jammu and explore the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that the region has to offer. He further highlighted the significant economic benefits that a flourishing tourism industry can bring to the region. Increased tourist footfall would translate into improved business opportunities for local entrepreneurs, generate employment, and boost the overall economy of Jammu, he added. Arun Gupta has requested the government to give utmost importance to the development of the Artificial lake, Tawi river front project, restoration of the iconic Mubarak Mandi, and the timely execution of other tourism-related projects in the city. This would not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the region but also contribute to positioning Jammu as a premier tourist destination in the union territory, he added. The Jammu Chamber has also welcomed the recent decision of the government to abolish the Urban Transport Environment Improvement Committee (UTEIC), which was responsible for the complicated process of obtaining 16 NOCs for building permission. Gupta said the aforesaid law was uniquely applicable to Jammu only and had placed a significant burden on the business houses. He expressed his appreciation for this decision and stated that it would go a long way in easing the regulatory framework for businesses and facilitating Ease of Doing Business in Jammu. “This step by the government is expected to provide a significant relief to the local business houses and create a more conducive environment for investment and economic growth,” he added. Arun Gupta extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Martyred Police Officer Deepak Sharma who lost his life in the line of duty while protecting the citizens. He praised the bravery and dedication of the J&K Police Force, which has been working tirelessly to maintain law and order in the region. He recognized the immense sacrifice made by Deepak Sharma and acknowledged the risks that law enforcement personnel face every day to protect the community. The other office bearers present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/24/2024                                                              Press Note                                                     19th March 2024


Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI expressed serious concern and strong resentment over the move of the J&K UT Government (Industries and Commerce Department) to initiate the eviction process against the permanently registered Industrial Units for the leased out premises by SIDCO and SICOP who are operating since last about five decades but were forced to suspend their production and close their units due to various reasons including withdrawal of market support as well as purchase preference and timely disbursement of already declared incentives mainly turnover incentive and also due to Covid, when all the activities were disturbed. Sh. Arun Gupta said that the existing Industry is really under stress because of market dynamics and also change in new product range. The existing Industry under substantial expansion by way of change in line of activity or additional line of activity is barred from all the incentives as it does not fall under the central incentive package or the J&K UT package. He said that instead of providing healing touch to the existing ailing Industry the government is bent upon to snatch the land from the sick / closed units who mostly fall under Micro and Small Sector. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that the government should come forward for the rescue of existing ailing industry by restoring the incentives of market support, purchase preference and also provide in time the already declared incentives mainly turnover incentives, the problem of Industry becoming sick shall be solved. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that before initiating the eviction process the government should have taken all the stakeholders into confidence to resolve the issue. Sh. Arun Gupta demanded the immediate withdrawal of the said notice/order and also pleaded that the government must constitute a high powered committee to formulate the revival / rehabilitation policy for such units.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/24/2024                                                              Press Note                                                     22 February 2024


A delegation of office bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry headed by its President Sh. Arun Gupta called on Sh. Bhawani Singh Rakhwal, KAS VC JDA and during interaction Sh. Arun Gupta apprised him that Since last about 2 and half decades the Jammu Development Authority and the J&K Housing Board have not developed /established any commercial area or residential colony due to which there is dearth of both commercial sites as well as the residential colonies in Jammu, where we can accommodate the unemployed educated youth as well as the middle class families. He requested that steps should be taken to establish the new commercial area as well as the residential colonies. Sh. Arun Gupta also briefed the VC JDA that Inspite of depositing the prescribed fee the lease deeds in respect of shops at Shiv Market Railway Station have not been executed by JDA since last 15 years. These lease deeds should be executed without any further delay. Further some commercial shops in Bahu Plaza area have been allotted to some persons but the possession of said shops has not been given to the concern allottees and no lease deeds have been executed with them. He requested that possession should be given and lease deeds be with the said allottees without any further delay. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that the old bus stand building has been declared as unsafe we request that steps should be taken to repair the said building to avoid any untoward incident. Further he requested that this area of the bus stand should be developed into a new multistory project and the existing shopkeepers / businessman working in the present building may be rehabilitated on the analogy of rehabilitating the shopkeepers of newly constructed/developed multistory project so that their livelihood is not effected. Sh. Arun Gupta also briefed the VC JDA that a move was started by the JDA to give free hold rights to the plot holders of Trikuta Nagar Housing Colony but due to some unknown reasons the said move was stalled. We request that the process of free hold rights to the plot holders of Trikuta Nagar Housing Colony should be restarted. The issue of Change of Land Use (CLU) was also discussed in the meeting and Sh. Arun Gupta requested the VC JDA to clear All the pending files of CLU without any further delay. While reacting to the issues raised / discussed in the meeting Sh. Bhawani S. Rakwal, VC JDA informed that JDA is already working for developing new residential colonies and new commercial sites. He also said that he will personally look into the issue of lease deeds of Shiv Market Railway Station and sort out the same. Regarding the issue of Bahu Plaza Shopkeepers he requested the Chamber to come up with a concrete proposal that how the matter can be sorted out and he will definitely work on the advised proposed. The other Office bearers who accompanied the delegation include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Arun Gupta, Executive Member

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCI/24/2024                                                              Press Note                                                     1st February 2024


In the reaction to the Budget announced by the Central Government today Sh. Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce & Industry said that there is nothing new for the business community as no relief has been announced for them in the budget. He also said that we have demanded establishment of some public sector undertaking unit in Jammu but nothing has been announced in the budget. He also hoped that while announcing the budget for the UT of J&K the government will announce establishment of a big tourism destination in Jammu to increase the footfall of tourists in Jammu as the Rail / Road connectivity upto Kashmir Valley will definitely harm the economic growth especially of Jammu City. While hailing the Union Budget announced today Sh. Arun Gupta said that the Central Government has given focus to all major sectors including Defence, Health Sector, Agriculture and food processing , Women, Youth and lower middle class people. Sh. Arun Gupta also welcomed the continuity of tax benefits to the start-ups and tax exemption of some IFSC units upto 31-03-2025 and retention of same tax rates. Sh. Arun Gupta also welcomed the scheme of rooftop solarisation for one crore household enabling them to get 300 units of electricity free of cost per month. Sh. Arun Gupta hailed the announcement of additional two crore houses in next five years and the scheme to promote housing for middle class to buy and build their own houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that implementation of three Railway Corridor programs under PM GATI Shakti to improve logistic efficiency and reduce cost, expansion of existing Airports and development of new airports under UDAN Scheme and promotion of Urban transformation via Metro Rail and NAMO Bharat is also a welcome step.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/26/2024                                                              Press Note                                                     26th January 2024


CCI celebrates 75th Republic Day with patriotic fervor Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), Jammu celebrated the 75th Republic Day with great fervour here today. An impressive programme was organized at the Chamber House which commenced with the hoisting of National Flag by Sh. Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jammu in presence of other office bearers and senior members of the CCI. On the occasion, Sh. Arun Gupta unfurled the National Flag after which the whole premises reverberated with the singing of National Anthem amid salutations to the National Tricolour and the martyrs who laid down their lives while protecting the territorial integrity of the nation on the borders and the hinterland. In his address, Sh. Arun Gupta threw light on the martyrdom of freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the cause of the nation and its people as a result of which the people of the World’s largest Democracy are enjoying full freedom and self esteem having earned honour and dignity at the global level. He also said that it is a day to remember those who had sacrificed their lives to get the nation free from British rule. Sh. Arun Gupta said that Republic Day is the most auspicious day for the whole nation and its people and being the most vibrant democracy of the world, it deserves to be celebrated like a festival with full enthusiasm and gaiety amid participation of people from diverse cultures as ‘Unity in Diversity’ is the hallmark of the Indian democracy. The Chamber President assured that CCI members will leave no stone unturned in taking J&K on the glorious path of development and prosperity.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/24/2024                                                              Press Note                                                     24th January 2024


A Delegation of Chamber of Commerce & Industry led by its President Sh. Arun Gupta called on the Commissioner State Taxes Department Sh. P.K.Bhat, and apprised him about the various issues / problems being faced by the Business community which include enhancement of present limit of e-way bills from Rs. 50000 to Rs. 1 lac, goods shifted from go-downs/cold storage to the shops be treated at stock transfer and the GST reimbursement to the Industrial Units should be in a time bound manner. Sh. Arun Gupta also requested the Commissioner State Taxes that the members who could not claim the reimbursement of GST from 2017 onwards due to some unavoidable circumstances should be given one last chance to apply for reimbursement claims and there should be no need to generate a fresh e-way bill if shifting of stock is mentioned on the bill as it is a technical points and needs to be understood. Further he briefed the Commissioner State Taxes that some businessmen who were doing their business since VAT regime by carrying the goods for delivery in other districts door to door are not allowed to carry on their business after the introduction of GST, these businessmen should be allowed to carry on their business with some specific guidelines. He also said that the scrap dealers who collect the scrap from door to door and are paying GST at the time of selling their goods should not be harassed unnecessarily. He also pointed out that there should be no penalty on technical fault and also take decision regarding e-way bill expiry with no penalty on humanitarian grounds. Sh. Arun Gupta further briefed the Commissioner State Taxes about restructuring of GST for Dhabas, Halwaies, Tea Stalls and Bakeries and requested him to reexamined the whole issue and consider charging of GST at 1% of their sales or charging of a lump-sum amount from these traders as was being charged before implementation of GST. Sh. Arun Gupta further requested the Commissioner State Taxes to take up the matter with the Hon’ble Union Finance Minister for allowing opening of one time window as an amnesty for sending the information of e-invoices on the Invoice Registration Portal(IRP) for the dealers having annual turnover of Rs. 100 crore or more. Sh. Arun Gupta also requested the Commissioner State Taxes to take up the issue with GST Council that if any seller does not file his return GST-1, the buyer does not get the input of that bill. This is a punishment to the honest taxpayers and this should not happen as he has a proper bill in this regard and a change in the law is required. The Commissioner State Taxes assured the delegation that the issues raised by Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu are well taken and we will see that no innocent businessmen are harassed unnecessarily and the issues pertaining to the GST council shall be taken up with the concerned authorities for their early redressal. He also said that the revenue collection in the shape of penalties is not our motto, we just want to educate the business community to work and pay the taxes honestly. The other office bearers who accompanied the delegation include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/24/2024                                                              Press Note                                                     22 January 2024


CCI organizes remarkable function to celebrate Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Rama in Ram Temple Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) today organized a remarkable function at Chamber House to celebrate the historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Rama in Ram Temple at Ayodhya. At the outset, CCI Office bearers performed Pooja of Ram Darbar. The Pooja was also attended by a large number of members and representatives from All Bazars and Industrial areas inspite of the fact that separate function were organized in every Bazar and Industrial areas. After Pooja Archana, Prashad was served among the participants. Speaking on the occasion, CCI Members thanked PM Narendra Modi and said today after the struggle of centuries we got our Ram Mandir and it not less than Diwali for all Indians. They said that whole world was waiting for the “historic” Ram temple consecration ceremony, and appealed to people to celebrate this as Diwali and light Diyas in their houses.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/24/2024                                                              Press Note                                                     4th January 2024


A delegation of Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu led by its President Sh. Arun Gupta alongwith Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. RajeeV Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General CCI and Sh. Rajesh Gupta Secretary CCI called on Sh. Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister of Road, Transport and Highways at New Delhi and briefed him about the concerns regarding the proposed construction designs of Katra-Delhi express way especially Kunjwani to Narwal section and Kunjwani to Satwari section and submitted a memorandum. Two of our senior members Sh. Davinder Rana, Seh Parbhari BJP Himachal State Unit and Sh. Sham Lal Langer, Ex-Sr. Vice President CCI who were present at Delhi were requested by Sh. Arun Gupta to accompany the delegation. During interaction Sh. Arun Gupta said that Jammu & Kashmir is currently experiencing unprecedented development under your leadership. Massive infrastructure projects are transforming the Union Territory, contributing significantly to its overall growth and prosperity. He also expressed that certain concerns and recommendations regarding the ongoing infrastructure development projects in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Katra Delhi Expressway. Sh. Arun Gupta drew the attention of the Hon’ble Minister to the proposed construction design of the expressway flyover between Kunjwani to Narwal, which includes the implementation of blind walls. While we acknowledge the importance of infrastructure development, we are concerned that the blind walls on both sides of the expressway may disrupt vital connections between shops, businesses, and residences. In the era of advanced technologies, we question the adherence to old patterns, especially when modern infrastructure technicalities are readily available. The blind walls may not align with the current needs of the community and may cause inconvenience to residents, hinder emergency services, and impact the daily commutes of pedestrians. The land use of this area is mainly commercial. Varied types of commercial activities in the form of wholesale, Malls, Hospitals, retail, or small-scale services are carried out in this area. About 6 kms away from the project starting point at 515 KM +000, a wholesale fruit market, mandi,and garages for heavy vehicles, including bodybuilding units of trucks and buses, are situated. The project will impact 502 commercial establishments(approx.), which include 365 shops, 10 Vehicle showrooms including Private Vehicles, Construction equipment along with their service centers, 37 godowns, 5 Schools, 65 office spaces, 7 Hospitals, 5 Malls, and 8 shops in sheds in both government and private structures. In addition to the commercial establishments, the impact of the livelihood would be on the households (HH) losing their shops. There will be direct impacts on source of income for households losing godowns, as these are used only to support businesses; hence, losing them will result in a economical disturbance and inconvenience in storing goods. Thus, the loss of livelihood will be posed to 587 commercial establishments which implies for loss of income and which directly impacts the economy of Jammu. The portion from Kunjwani to Narwal encompasses residential and commercial areas, and we believe that a community-friendly pillar-based design for the expressway flyover would be more suitable. This modification would not only address the concerns of the local community but also contribute to the overall success of the expressway project. Additionally, we wish to bring to your attention the livelihood of 65 shopkeepers are in great danger with the construction of proposed flyover from Kunjwani to Satwari section, upto the Government College for Women in Gandhi Nagar, Jammu. These shopkeepers, who have been running their establishments for over six decades, now face the threat of losing their livelihoods due to the proposed flyover design. Understanding the importance of these businesses in supporting the local community, we earnestly request your office to consider a slight shift of the flyover by 1.5 meters to save the livelihoods of atleast 45 shopkeepers. This adjustment would not only preserve the economic stability of these families but also showcase the government's commitment to supporting local businesses. We trust that your esteemed office will consider our concerns and recommendations with the seriousness they deserve. Your intervention in these matters will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the Katra Delhi Expressway while ensuring the well-being of the local communities it serves. Sh. Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister of Road, Transport and Highways telephonic talked to the Chairman NHAI regarding the issues discussed in the meeting. He also assured that he will personally look into the issues and find out the solution regarding the above problems.. he also said that we are of the opinion that the general public should not be harassed while taking up the developmental projects.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     30 December 2023


Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI expressed sincere thanks and gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Sh. Narendra Modi Ji for giving much needed relief to the pilgrims of Mata Vaishno Devi by starting the second Vande Bharat Express from New Delhi to Holy town Katra from 30 December 2023 which will have brief stoppage at Udhampur and Kathua. Sh. Arun Gupta also thanked Hon’ble Union Railway Minister Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw, Hon’ble MOS in PMO Office Dr. Jatinder Singh and Hon’ble LG UT of J&K Sh. Manoj Sinha with whose efforts it has become possible to start this new train. Sh. Arun Gupta said that this train will a big relief to the business community besides the pilgrims of Mata Vaishno Devi and the General passengers. He also said that Jammu Railway Station being the most congested station, the stoppage time for Vande Bharat trains should be atleast five minutes instead of two minutes. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that Jammu is a major hub for railway operations for interstate and intrastate transportation. There is ample need to upgrade the Jammu Railway Station by giving it the Divisional Status although it has been announced earlier but on ground nothing has been done in this regard, as such urgent steps be taken to develop the infrastructure which is necessary for establishing a new Railway division. Sh. Arun Gupta further pointed out that there is urgent need to establish a rail engine workshop between Jammu and Kathua as at present the nearest rail engine workshop is at Patiala which is far away from Jammu. Moreover the rail network is extended upto Baramulla in Kashmir Valley which is more than 300 KM from Jammu. The present rail engine workshop at Patiala shall prove to be insufficient to meet the requirement of repairs as the number of rail engines has increased manifold. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that few new trains and some existing ones be restricted upto Jammu Railway Station and the visitors be encouraged to visit this city of temples in order to give boost to the economy of UT of J&K.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/21/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     28 December 2023


Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI today expresses his deep gratitude to Sh. Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble LG UT of J&K, Sh. Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Hon’ble Advisor to LG, Sh. Atal Dhulloo, Chief Secretary UT of J&K for accepting our long pending demand regarding granting amnesty for settlement of tax arrears pertaining to Pre GST regime for the dealers who could not take the benefit of earlier amnesty scheme issued vide order no. 39-F-D of 2018 due to various reasons especially Covid-19 pandemic. Sh. Arun Gupta said that this amnesty scheme will provide relief to the dealers on 100% waiver of penalty and interest under general sales tax act 1962, central sales tax 1956 And VAT act 2005. He further said that this decision of the government will result in minimizing the tax dispute cases. Sh. Arun Gupta requests the business community to avail tax benefit of this amnesty scheme by depositing the tax arrears within the prescribed time limit. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that during the initial stage of implementing the GST scheme there were some technical / other minor mistakes on the part of the dealers/ assesses due to unawareness about GST scheme. Chamber requests the government that those dealers / assesses should be given one time opportunity to settle their cases especially for the period 2017-2018, 2018-2019 and 2019-2020. Sh. Arun Gupta also requests the government/NHAI to reconsider the decision of enhancing the toll tax by 100% at Nashri Toll Plaza as it will effect the business community/general public badly.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/21/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     23 December 2023


In a meeting of Office Bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry held today at Chamber House Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI strongly condemned the terrorist attack on an Army Vehicle at Dhatyar Morh between Dhera Ki Gali and Bufliaz under hurdicition of Surankot Police Station in Poonch District in which five Army soldiers were martyred and two others were injured. The meeting saluted the brave Soldiers who sacrificed their lives while defending the motherland and also prayed for the speedy recovery of injured and expressed sympathies with the bereaved families. A two minutes silence was observed to pay homage to the departed Souls. Sh. Arun Gupta said that fundamentalists of all hues are worried with the peace, tranquility and brotherhood between different communities and want to destabilize the brotherhood. He also added that Chamber firmly believes that people of Jammu and Kashmir shall not get trapped in their nefarious designs and will firmly uphold the credentials of secularism. Sh. Arun Gupta demanded that the terrorists and their over ground workers as well as supports be eliminated. He also requested the International Community to raise their voice against the terrorism of all kinds and urged World Community to sensor Pakistan who openly supports and promotes terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The other office bearers present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer The other Office bearers who accompanied the delegation include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General CCI and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/13/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     18th December 2023


The delegation of Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu today met the Chief Secretary Sh. Atal Dulloo, IAS. At the outset Sh. Arun Gupta expressed heartiest congratulations and welcomed Sh. Atal Dulloo, IAS on assuming the charge of Highest and prestigious post of Chief Secretary UT of J&K. During interaction Sh. Arun Gupta apprised the Chief Secretary that Although the government is trying is level best for the development and beautification of Tawi River banks and creating a fresh water lake. The project needs to be expedited and more such projects are also required to be taken in hand to attract pilgrims / tourists to the city of temples as in near future the train is going to be reach Kashmir Valley. Further the work on the Mubarak Mandi Heritage complex is going on at snails pace. We request that the work on the said project should be expedited and the light and sound system over there should also be started at the earliest. Sh. Arun Gupta also requested that Patnitop should be developed as a tourist hub for which it is necessary to allow commercial activities over there on the pattern of Gulmarg and Pahalgam. During interaction Sh. Arun Gupta briefed the Chief Secretary that inspite of depositing the prescribed fee by the allottee of Shiv Market Railway Station have not be executed since last morethan `15 years the same should be expedited. He also apprised the Chief Secretary that the lease deeds of some allottees of Sabzi Mandi and Fruit Mandi Narwal have expired the same should be renewed after charging minimum possible premium. Further some allottee of Bahu Plaza commercial shops have not been given procession and lease deeds executed with them the same should also be expedited. It was also impressed upon the Chief Secretary that the delayed payment act which at present is applicable to MSME registered units be available to MSME registered firms also. Further the GST structure in respect of Dhabas, Halwaies and Tea Stalls needs to be reexamined and slash down are in the alternative the composite tax level be raised to 50 lacs. The limit of e-way bills be enhanced from existing 50 thousand to Rs. 1 lac Sh. Arun Gupta also demanded that the old damaged water pipes should be removed and fresh pipes be laid so that the people can get portable drinking water. Government should formulate a scheme allowing ownership rights of leasehold Industrial land to local sons of soil / entrepreneurs after a period of 25 years of first/ original allotment of land after charging a nominal amount as conversion fee. He also requested to include a separate clause of land value / Stamp duty rates for Industrial land which is to be registered for Industrial units. Further he demanded the extension in the validity of provisional registration to benefit the unit holders who could not commence productions within stipulated time due to non availability of road connectivity, electric supply and water supply due to which they are unable to get the financial help from the banks and the other commercial institutes. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that the government has announced a turnover incentives for the existing Industries for their survival and become viable but till date no turnover incentives has been given to any Industrial unit. We request that these incentives for the year 2021-22 and 2022-23 be released for the industries without any capping at the earliest. Sh. Arun Gupta also demanded VAT amnesty scheme and power amnesty for commercial users. Sh. Arun Gupta briefed the Chief Secretary that Custodian Land is being allotted for the purpose of Industrial use after charging circle rates. We request that the said land should be transferred / allotted after charging the fee equivalent to the rates of transfer fee of normal Industrial land i.e Rs. 6.00 lacs per kanal. The other Office bearers who accompanied the delegation include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General CCI and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/21/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     23 November 2023


In a meeting of Office Bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry held today at Chamber House Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI strongly condemned the cowardice act of terrorism yesterday at village Bajimaal in Kalakot area of Rajouri district in which four Army personnel including two Captains, JCO and a Jawan were martyred besides one Major and a Jawan were injured. The meeting saluted the brave Officers and Soldiers who sacrificed their lives while defending the motherland and also prayed for the speedy recovery of injured and expressed sympathies with the bereaved families. A two minutes silence was observed to pay homage to the departed Souls. Sh. Arun Gupta said that fundamentalists of all hues are worried with the peace, tranquility and brotherhood between different communities and want to destabilize the brotherhood. He also added that Chamber firmly believes that people of Jammu and Kashmir shall not get trapped in their nefarious designs and will firmly uphold the credentials of secularism. Sh. Arun Gupta demanded that the terrorists and their overground workers as well as supports be eliminated. He also requested the International Community to raise their voice against the terrorism of all kinds and urged World Community to sensor Pakistan who openly supports and promotes terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The other office bearers present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/21/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     22 November 2023


A Delegation of Chamber of Commerce & Industry led by its President Sh. Arun Gupta called on the Commissioner /Secretary Industries and Commerce Department Sh. Vikramjeet Singh,IPS and apprised him about the difficulties being faced by our Industrial units. While interacting with the Commissioner Secretary Industries and Commerce Sh. Arun Gupta said that the J&K UT is at the dead end of the country and is effected by militancy and cross border terrorism due to which our industry has to bear high input cost and high cost of production. To provide a level play field the J&K UT government as well as central government has provided certain incentives for sustenance and survival of existing industry as well as to bring in fresh investment from outside the UT, but some hurdles are being faced which needs to be removed at the earliest. We request that steps should be taken to remove the hurdles to provide hand holding and healing touch for the industry. Further he demanded the extension in the validity period of provisional registration benefit to the units holders who could not commence the production within stipulated time due to non availability of road connectivity, electricity supply and water supply due to which they are unable to get the financial help from the banks and other financial institutions. Further Sh. Arun Gupta apprised the Commissioner Secretary Industries and Commerce that the government has announced a turnover incentives for the existing Industries for their survival and become viable but till date no turnover incentives has been given to any Industrial unit. We request that this incentives for the year 2021-22 and 2022-23 be released for the industries at the earliest. Sh. Arun Gupta further briefed the Commissioner Secretary that Sometimes due to some unavoidable circumstances some Industrial Units are not able to file their SGST refund claims in time to avail the incentives provided by the Industries/ finance department. Due to non-filing of SGST refund claims in time by some industrial units, they are debarred from taking the benefit of SGST refund. We request that additional suitable time be granted to such units for filing their SGST refund claims. Gross GST reimbursement incentive be provided to the existing Industries under substantial expansion program for their survival and become viable. Since the commercial notified rates are too high, there is urgent need to introduce separate market value/stamp duty rates for Industrial Category. We request to include a separate clause of Land value / Stamp duty rates in respect of land which is to be registered for Industrial Units There should be no negative list for the Industrial products being manufactured by the registered industrial units for their survival and become viable. The Govt. should formulate a scheme allowing ownership rights of lease hold industrial land to local sons of the soil' entrepreneurs after a period of more than 25 years of the first/original allotment of land after charging a nominal amount as conversion fee. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that while developing the land for industries 50% land should be kept reserved for Micro Industries. Sh. Arun Gupta further demanded that for the survival of local Micro and small Industrial units price/purchase preference should be given to these units, besides Reimbursement of road freight incentives for inward and outward supply for raw material and finished products across India. While reacting to the issues raised in today’s meeting Sh. Vikramjeet Singh said that the turnover incentives shall be provided to the existing unit holders as per the policy of the government. Regarding the issue of not filing the SGST refund claims he said that we will look into the issues and sort out the matter. He also said that while developing the land for Industries department will see that new Micro and Small Industrial Units will get their due share. The other office bearers who accompanied the delegation include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/13/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     16th November 2023


In a meeting of the Office Bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry held today at Chamber House, Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI expressed deep shock, anguish and sadness over the tragic Bus Accident that occurred Assar in Doda district yesterday in which 39 people including women and children have lost their precious lives and 17 persons have been injured. The meeting also expressed heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved families and also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the Bus accident. Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI expressed thanks to Sh. Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India for announcing Rs, 2 lacs each for the next of the kin of the deceased and Rs. 50 thousand for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. Sh. Arun Gupta also thanked Sh. Manoj Sinha, Hon’ble LG UT of J&K for announcing ex-gratia relief of Rs. 5 lacs each for the next of the kin of the deceased and Rs. 1 lacs for the injured besides every possible help. The meeting also called on the State Administration to take effective steps so that such unfortunate incidents does not take place in future. The other office bearers present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/25/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     25th October 2023


Chamber of Commerce & Industry organized an interactive meeting with Police Department at Chamber House today wherein Sh. Vinod Kumar, IPS SSP Jammu, Sh. Chandan Kohli, IPS Dy. Secretary in Cabinet Secretariat, New Delhi and Sh. Faisal Qureshi, JKPS SSP Traffic were present. At the outset Sh. Arun Gupta welcomed the dignitaries present in the interactive session and also recalled the services/cooperation of the Police Department especially during the Covid period and Post Covid period as well as after the abrogation of Article 370. He said that due to positive role of the Police Department no untoward incident has taken place and the Police Department has eliminated / captured a number of militants and over ground workers of different militants outfits, besides huge quantity of arms and ammunition has been recovered during various operations. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that during past sometime the relations between the general public and the Police Department have remained cordial and cooperative with each other and we hope that this type of relations shall continue in future also. Thereafter Sh. Arun Gupta also recalled the services rendered by Sh. Chandan Kohli, IPS as SSP Jammu and said that during his tenure the crime graph of Jammu considerably come down and people of Jammu will remember him for his politeness and determined approach in solving the problems and we wish him all the success and good luck on taking over the new assignment. Sh. Arun Gupta also welcomed Sh. Vinod Kumar, IPS on assuming the charge of SSP Jammu and said we are hopeful that the relations between the Public and the Police Department shall be strengthened more during his tenure as SSP Jammu. Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI also praised the traffic police department for their cooperation with Chamber of Commerce & Industry and the business community and requested not to penalize the innocent Jammuites instead only major violators should be booked/penalized. While speaking on the occasion Sh. Chandan Kohli, IPS thanked the people of Jammu especially Chamber of Commerce & Industry for their wholehearted support and cooperation during his tenure as SSP Jammu. He also said that there can be differences in our actions but ultimately we have work jointly for the betterment of the society and I have tried my best to provide better and hassle free services to the people of Jammu. While speaking on the occasion Sh. Faisal Qureshi, JKPS SSP Traffic assured the Chamber members that he will definitely look into the suggestions made by the Chamber members in today’s meeting. Sh. Vinod Kumar, IPS SSP Jammu also assured the Chamber members that he will try his best to continue the Police and public relations in a better way. Prominent among others present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI, Sh. Rajendra Motial, former Secretary General, Sh. Shiv Kumar Gupta, Sh. Ravinder Sawhney, Sh. Surinder Singh Kala , Sh. Ashish Gupta Sh. Balbir Gupta, Sh. Pardeep Vaid, Sh. Raghubir Gupta, Sh. Ashwani Khullar, Sh. Ramesh Tak, Sh. Surinder Mahajan,Sh. Subash Gupta, Sh. Charanjeet Singh, Sh. Narinder Singh Chahal, Sh. Satish Sethi, Capt. Anil Gour, Sh. K.K.Khosa, Sh. Atul Gupta, Sh. Sham Kesar, , Sh. Raj Kumar Gupta, Sh. Bharat Bhushan Gupta, Sh. Ashwani Gupta, Sh. Vinod Gupta, Sh. Virender Kesar, , Sh. Prem Sharma, Sh. Sanjay Gupta, Sh. Narinder Gupta, Sh. Amit Gupta, Sh. Narinder Gupta, Sh. Raj Kumar and others

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/06/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     6th October 2023


CCI welcomes Govt's decision to uphold Property Tax. Arun Gupta urges Power Deptt to rectify false & inflated bills. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), Jammu, today welcomed the decision of Jammu and Kashmir Government for upholding the imposition of property tax in Jammu. In this regard, an urgent meeting was held at the Chamber House, presided over by Sh. Arun Gupta, President of CCI Jammu, and attended by office bearers of the Jammu Chamber. In the meeting, Sh. Arun Gupta expressed sincere gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor for demonstrating a profound commitment to the aspirations of the Jammu people by honoring the request made by the Jammu Chamber. It is pertinent to highlight that the Jammu Chamber had called for suspension of the property tax and also called Jammu Bandh in this regard. The overwhelming support from the people of Jammu underscored the importance of this issue within the community. Sh. Arun Gupta urged the government to initiate a comprehensive dialogue with all stakeholders concerning property tax. He emphasized the necessity of formulating a well-thought-out policy on property tax through extensive discussions with relevant parties. This approach, he believes, will contribute to the development and prosperity of the region.Sh. Arun Gupta has also welcomed the decision of Lt. Governor to address the concerns of those impoverished individuals who have received erroneous and inflated electricity bills in Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that there are numerous individuals who have fallen victim to these inaccuracies, causing undue hardship. Sh. Arun Gupta appealed to the Lt. Governor to issue necessary directives to the Power Department to refrain from disconnecting power connections of any poor and needy residents. He stressed the critical importance of ensuring uninterrupted access to electricity for those most vulnerable in the society. The Jammu Chamber President also urged the concerned Power Department to prioritize the rectification of false and inflated bills, urging them to expedite the resolution process to alleviate the burden on affected households. Furthermore, he called upon the government to cease any harassment of citizens related to the implementation of pre-paid meters. Chamber totally oppose implementation of prepaid meter system. Sh. Arun Gupta further request the government to provide uninterrupted Power supply to the Industrial units as the Industries at present are facing hardships and are going through tough time due to unscheduled power cuts President CCI Sh. Arun Gupta urges the LG Government to come forward to resolve the other issues raised by Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Jammu as people of Jammu have full faith in Chamber of Commerce & Industry because it is the only elected body raising the issues pertaining to the people of Jammu. The other Office bearers present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/14/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     14th September 2023


CCI expresses profound grief over Martyrdom of three brave hearts in Kokernag encounter Urges Govt to take strenuous steps to eliminate terrorism in Kashmir Valley The Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Jammu, has deeply saddened and mourned the tragic martyrdom of three valiant officers in an encounter that occurred in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district. In this connection a meeting was held at Chamber House under the chairmanship of Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu in which office bearers of Jammu Chamber Rajiv Gupta,Munish Gupta,Rajesh Gupta,Rajesh Gupta were also present. Speaking on the occasion, Arun Gupta expressed his condolences and solidarity with the families of the martyred officers during this hour of immense pain and distress. He stated, "The entire nation stands firmly with the families of these martyred officers, sharing their grief. Their sacrifice serves as a stark reminder of the challenges our brave soldiers and police officers face while protecting our borders and maintaining law and order." Mr. Gupta said “The nation lost three of its finest heroes in this unfortunate incident, including Army Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhancok, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat. These fearless officers made the supreme sacrifice while defending our country and maintaining peace in the region. Their unwavering dedication and courage in the line of duty are an inspiration to us all. Their loss is immeasurable, and their memory will forever be etched in our hearts.” Mr. Gupta further urged the government to take strenuous steps to eliminate terrorism in the Kashmir Valley. He emphasized the need for a collective effort to ensure the safety and security of our citizens.The Jammu Chamber extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhancok, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat and prayed for their eternal peace. “We salute the bravery and dedication of these officers and remain committed to supporting our armed forces and law enforcement agencies in their tireless efforts to safeguard our nation,” he added.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/27/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     29th August 2023


Tibetan Parliament Members Sh. Dawa Tsering, Sh. Yeshi Dolma and Tenpa Yarphel accompanied by Rajinder Sadotra, General secretary Bharat Tibet Sanyog Manch, Sh. Sanjeev Mangotra, Convener North Zone(BTSM) and Indu Puri Vice President Mahila Morcha visited Chamber House and interacted with President Chamber of Commerce & Industry Sh. Arun Gupta and his team of Office Bearers. Sh. Arun Gupta, welcomed the visiting delegation in Chamber house. During interaction the visiting MPs of Tibet briefed that historically Tibet was an Independent nation having defined territory, distinct population, governments and maintained diplomatic relations with neighbouring countries. They further apprised that how China invaded / occupied Tibet illegally. They further said that the Tibetan people have been traumatized by systematic violations of their most fundamental human rights and threat to their distinct culture and national identity since China occupied Tibet. They also said that at present half of the migrated pollution of Tibet is settled in India. The Government of India has already highlighted our issues and we also request your association that our cause should be highlighted at an appropriate level. Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI said that your demands are very genuine and every country has the right of freedom and China Should declare Tibet as an independent country. He assured the visiting MPs that demands put before the Chamber shall be forwarded to the appropriate authorities. The other Office bearers present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/26/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     26th August 2023


Sh. Arun Gupta, on behalf of Chamber of Commerce & Industry expresses sincere thanks to all the organizations including J&K High Court Bar Association Jammu, the Transporters who have supported the Bandh Call and remained off the road and the business community from all over Jammu Province including Kathua, Samba and R.S.Pura for their wholehearted and overwhelming support to today’s Jammu Bandh by keeping their business establishments closed on the call of CCI, thus supporting the cause of Jammu. Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu today took out a peaceful protest rally from Chamber House Rail Head Complex Jammu. The Transporters, Tanker Association, Trade and Market Associations also joined the Rally. Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI while addressing the rally expressed deep concern /anger and said that Chamber of Commerce & Industry believes in open dialogue with all the stakeholders but in view of the adamant approach of UT Administration J&K, Chamber after discussions with different Associations and in consultation with J&K High Court Bar Association Jammu, Chamber announced one day Jammu Bandh to press the government to understand the gravity of the situation and wake up from the deep slumber and take proactive approach to address the pressing genuine issues of halting installation of smart meters / prepaid meters and suspension of Toll Plaza at Sarore as these issues are of paramount importance.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/24/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     24 August 2023


The Meeting of the different Market and Trade Associations comprising of more than 100 Associations was held today at Chamber House under the Presidentship of Sh. Arun Gupta. Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI while welcoming apprised the members present in the meeting about the purpose and agenda of the meeting. He said today’s meeting has been convened to discuss the issues regarding Installation of Smart Meters by PDD and subsequently switching over to Prepaid system of billing and Toll Plaza at Sarore. Sh. Arun Gupta apprised the members that he had already taken up the issues regarding excess billing after installation of smart meters and has also voiced that installation of smart meters should be stopped immediately as the digital meters were functioning properly and smoothly. Regarding the toll plaza at Sarore he said that he has already highlighted this issues and said that till the damaged bridge of Taranah Nallah on National Highway is completely restored and the damaged roads are repaired and made fully operational, the toll tax collection be kept in abeyance. in this regard he has also requested the Hon’ble LG to give appointment to discuss these issues. Thereafter he requested the members to present their views. After thorough discussions the members of the different associations present in the meeting expressed their anger over the installation of Smart Meters/functioning at Toll Plaza at Sarore and were of the opinion that Jammu Bandh is the only solution to get our demand /issues resolved and the members with one voice extended their full support and authorized Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI to take any decision including announcing Jammu Bandh in this regard. Thereafter a Press Conference was held by Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI. While briefing the media persons about the discussions / decision taken in the meeting of the associations announced one day Jammu Bandh on Saturday 26 August 2023. The Office Bearers present in the meeting and Press Conference include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer Prominent among those present in the meeting include Sh. Deepak Gupta, President Trader Federation Warehouse ,Sh. Yash Pal Gupta,President Retailers Federation, Anan Sharma, President Tanker Association, Sh. Murari Lal Balgotra, Chairman Dhaba Union, Sh. Neeraj Gupta, President Hardware,Paint & Sanitary Dealer Association, Sh. Krishan Lal Gupta, Chairman, Rajinder BAzar Trader Association, Sh. Prem Sharma, General Secretary Jammu Chemist Association, Sanjay Gupta, President Raghunath Bazar Association, Rajan Gupta, President JPDA, , Sh. Ashish Gupta, General Secretary, Kanak Mandi Traders Association, Sh. Pawan Gupta, President All Jammu, Hotel and Lodges Association, Sh. Janak Raj Gupta, President, Brick Kiln Owner Association, Sh. Arjun Gupta, Ms. Puja Kapoor, Sh. Gian Sharma, Sh. Rajesh Dewan, Sh. Rajesh Raina, Sh. Ramesh Tak, SH. Madhu Sharma, Sh. Sushant Gupta, Sh. Suraj Parkash, Sh. Rajeev Langer, Sh. Davinder Mahajan, Sh. Jatinder Pinky Jain, Sh. Vishal Gupta, Sh. Sanjay Jain, Sh. Anil Gupta, Sh. Manmohan Singh,Sh. Rajender Parsad, Sh. Anil Gupta, Sh. Narinder Gupta, Sh. Surinder Mahajan. Sh. Davinder Sharma, Sh. Kamal Gupta, Sh. Ashwani Gupta and others

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     23 August 2023


Chamber of Commerce & Industry joins millions of Indians in rejoicing on the wonderful feat of soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the south pole of moon in its very first attempt. India is proud to achieve this unparalled event in the annals of history of moon missions. We join with millions of Indians in saluting and congratulating the scientific community of ISRO who achieved this feat with minimum necessary expenditure. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has demonstrated its exceptional prowess in space exploration once again, marking a significant milestone in the country's space journey. This achievement not only adds to India's scientific capabilities but also enhances our understanding of the Moon's geology and its potential for scientific exploration. With soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 the Indian has become the fourth country to master the technology of soft landing on the lunar surface and its objectives are to conduct scientific experiments which will open new avenues for future space exploration endeavors and reinforce India’s position as a formidable force in the global space community.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/12/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     22 August 2023


An urgent meeting of Office Bearers and Sr. Members of Chamber of Commerce & Industry was held today at Chamber House under the Presidentship of Sh. Arun Gupta. The meeting strongly condemned the action of the administration to impose section 144 and lift the activists of Yuva Rajput Sabha who were peacefully and democratically protesting and demanding the removal of Sarore Toll Plaza on Jammu-Pathankot National Highway. It was underscored that to protest peacefully and democratically is the fundamental right of every citizen. Chamber had already highlighted the said issue and had requested the authorities to keep in abeyance the toll tax being collected at Sarore till the damaged bridge of Tarnah Nalah on National Highway is completely restored. The transporters have to cover extra mileage due to diversion of traffic which has not only caused increased transportation cost besides delay in receipt of goods. CCI firmly believes in the importance of open dialogue and communication between all stakeholders. We encourage the concerned authorities to engage in constructive discussions with the stakeholders to find a resolution that respects the rights and interests of the people while ensuring the smooth functioning of public infrastructure. Chamber of Commerce & Industry urges the LG Administration to release the arrested activists of Yuva Rajput Saba forthwith and suspend the toll plaza till the National Highway is completely constructed and made fully operational. Those present in the meeting include, Sh. Prithvi Raj Gupta, Sh. Shiv Partap Gupta, Sh. Ravinder Goel Sh. Ravinder Sawhney, Sh. Jagdish langer, Sh . Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI ,Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta Treasurer and others

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/12/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     20th August 2023


Sh. Ghulam Ali Khatana,Hon’ble MP Rajya Sabha today visited Chamber House and interacted with Office Bearers, Sr. Members of CCI and representatives of different market associations present on the occasion. Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI welcomed Sh. Ghulam Ali Khatana Sahib and during discussions highlighted various issues pertaining to Trade, Industry and general public of Jammu which include stoppage of installation of smart meters immediately, Toll Tax being charged at Thandi Khoi by NHAI be kept in abeyance till the construction of express way corridor and the damaged bridge at Tarnah Nallah(Chadwal) is made operational, GST linked incentive be made available to the existing Industries also for their survival and in the era of cut throat competition, Mother Industries like Rail Coach Factory and Defence Equipment manufacturing Factory be established in Jammu in order to generate employment opportunities for the youth of our UT, Freight Subsidy be provided upto National Capital to save the existing Industry, Issues relating to GST Refund and Interest Subsidy, The concessions being provided to the new Industrial Units is also extended to the existing Industrial Unit for their survival. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that there are many Industrialists who want to establish their units on the land which comes under the purview of Khad Land. There is the need to redefine the “Kism” of this type of land and also a Policy should be formulated to allow the commercial and construction activities on those lands, so that the dream of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India that maximum investment should come in our UT. Sh. Arun Gupta further apprised him that the Govt. have fixed Circle Rates at very exaggerated rate while the actual prevalent rates are much low. Whereas Govt. is encouraging the entrepreneurs to establish their own industrial estate but such exaggerated circle rate is becoming a big hurdle in this process. The work on beautification of Jammu City Lake and Bank of River Tawi needs to be expedited, Promotion of Tourism in Jammu Region. Sh. Arun Gupta also pointed out that at present only one train is running between Jammu-Haridwar on daily basis. Although a new train has been started but it is running for twice a week. The people of Jammu are travelling to Haridwar frequently to perform religious rituals but due to non-availability of this second train throughout the week they are facing lot of inconvenience, we demand that this train should be operated regularly on daily basis, Presently There is urgent need to introduce a new super-fast train from the State of Rajasthan especially Jaipur for the facilitation of Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims. While reacting Mr. Khatana said that he has already talked to the PDD regarding excess billing and he hoped the necessary and favourable order shall be issued very soon. Regarding Toll Plaza he said that he will take up the said matter with the NHAI to resolve the issue at the earliest. Regarding other issues raised in today’s meeting he said that he will definitely take up these issues with the concerned higher authorities for their redressal at the earliest. Those present in the meeting include Sh. Prithvi Raj Gupta, Former Secretary General CCI, Sh. Shiv Partap Gupta, Sh. Jagdish Langer, Sh. Ravinder Sawhney, Sh. Ravinder Goel, Sr. Executive Committee Members,Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/12/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     19th August 2023


Meeting of the Presidents/General Secretaries of different Market Associations was held at Chamber House under the Presidentship of Sh. Arun Gupta. While welcoming the members present in the meeting Sh. Arun Gupta apprised about the agenda of the meeting i.e. installation of smart meters and subsequently switching over to prepaid system of billing by PDD. In this regard Sh. Arun Gupta apprised the members that he has taken up this matter at various forums and also held a press conference and meeting with MD JPDCL Sh. Shiv Anat Tatyal on 8th August 2023 wherein he has raised the pressing issues relating to escalating power bills after installation of smart meters which have caused distress among the consumers and also questioned the necessity of replacing digital meters with smart meters. He further said that he has voiced the apprehension about the installation of smart meters on the electric polls which have generated unease among the general public and has suggested that the meters should be installed within the consumer’s premises and urged that this abrupt shift can cause undue mental agony and distress among the power consumers and termed it as a direct attack the fundamental rights of the consumers. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that the government especially PDD is trying to mislead the public by comparing the meter reading of smart meters with the digital meters and said that the department should come up with plausible reasons that how the consumers have received inflated bills after installation of smart meters. The government should rather take the issue on board and constitute a committee to look into the grievances of the public. He also said that government is busy in making excuses and the department has publically accepted that there may be some difference in meter reading as previously bills were prepared manually as per the reading submitted by their staff. Sh. Arun Gupta said that it is strange that after installation of smart meters a consumer who used to receive the power bills for Rs. 1000/- p.m. but after installation of smart meters he received a bill for Rs. 5000/- p.m. and next month he again received the bill for an amount of approximately Rs. 1000/- only. We have been raising this aspect with the PDD but have not got any satisfactory reply to this unexplainable phenomenon. The members present in the meeting while expressing their view said government should concentrate to bring down the transmission losses which are highest in our state as compared to other UTs and states of our country. They also opined that government should take into confidence the members of the business community and civil society before implementing any policy or decision concerning the general public. Some members also expressed that government is harassing the general public and members of the business community on one pretext or the others. They also complain that in case after installation of smart meters the electricity gets disrupted nobody cares to set right the same. The members with one voice suggested that since the administration has not bothered to look into the grievances of the consumers regarding excessive billing with smart meters, Jammu Bandh is the only solution to highlight our genuine demands and are ready to shut down business establishments for indefinite period. The members present in the meeting authorized President CCI Sh. Arun Gupta to take any decision including announcing Jammu Bandh at an appropriate time. Besides the office bearers namely Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer, Presidents and General Secretaries of more than 100 associations were also present in the meeting

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/15/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     16 August 2023


Sh. Arun Gupta President Chamber of Commerce & Industry alongwith Office Bearers namely Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President ,Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary today called on Sh. Rajiv Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to Hon’ble LG today in his office chambers. Sh. Arun Gupta apprised the Advisor that there is urgent need to redefine the Land types as large chunk of land in Jammu have been declared as “Gair Mumkin Khad” by Revenue Department despite the fact that no water body is passing through these lands. Registration and Construction activities on these lands is barred. There are many Industrialists who want to establish their units on the land which comes under the purview of Khad Land. There is the need to redefine the “Kism” of this type of land and also a Policy should be formulated to allow the commercial and construction activities on those lands, so that the dream of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India that maximum investment should come in our UT. Sh. Arun Gupta further apprised him that the Govt. have fixed Circle Rates at very exaggerated rate while the actual prevalent rates are much low. Whereas Govt. is encouraging the entrepreneurs to establish their own industrial estate but such exaggerated circle rate is becoming a big hurdle in this process. We request that the circle rates be suitably brought down to match with the prevalent market rates. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that The Water pipes have been laid many many years ago and there is leakage of water from these old pipes at so many places due to which the people of Jammu are forced to drink the substandard/contaminated water. We request that these old / damage water pipes should be removed and fresh water pipes be laid so that the people can get potable drinking water. Sh. Arun Gupta further apprised the Hon’ble Advisor that to reduce the rush of patients on Government Medical College Jammu, the emergency services alongwith HUD(High dependency Units) be started in Gandhi Nagar and Sarwal Hospitals so that the patients from different areas can get emergency services in a better way. While taking up the matter regarding smart meters Sh. Arun Gupta pointed out that the Consumers are complaining that smart meters are running very fast as compared to digital meters installed earlier and there is also drastic increase in power bills after the installation of the smart meters. He request the Hon’ble Advisor to look into the grievances of the public (consumers) and hold this process until their grievances are sorted out. He also said that since the consumers of PDD are paying their power bills regularly the process of prepaid system of power bills should not be introduced in Jammu which we think is against the fundamental rights of the consumers. Sh. Arun Gupta further apprised him that the Roads of Jammu almost everywhere are damaged and there are deep ditches which are hampering the free flow of traffic. No work to repair these damaged roads has been under taken since last 2-3 months. We request that these roads be got repaired at the earliest. He also said that the contractors who are also our members are not getting the payment for the works they have completed / executed, allotted to them by different departments and urged that their payments should be released at the earliest. While reacting Sh. Rajiv Rai Bhatnagar, Hon’ble Advisor assured that the issues raised in today’s meeting by Chamber of Commerce & Industry will be considered and the issues pertaining to other departments will be taken up with the higher / concerned authorities.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/15/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     15 August 2023


CCI celebrates 77th Independence Day with patriotic fervor Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), Jammu today celebrated the 77th Independence Day with great fervour here today. An impressive programme was organized at the Chamber House which commenced with the hoisting of National Flag by Sh. Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jammu in presence of other office bearers and senior members of the CCI after which the whole premises reverberated with the singing of National Anthem amid salutations to the National Tricolour. In his address, Arun Gupta threw light on the martyrdom of freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the cause of the nation and its people as a result of which the people of the World’s largest Democracy are enjoying full freedom and self esteem having earned honour and dignity at the global level. Gupta said that Independence Day is the most auspicious day for the whole nation and its people and being the most vibrant democracy of the world, it deserves to be celebrated like a festival with full enthusiasm and gaiety amid participation of people from diverse cultures as ‘Unity in Diversity’ is the hallmark of the Indian democracy. The Chamber President assured that CCI members will leave no stone unturned in taking J&K on the glorious path of development and prosperity.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/08/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     8th August 2023


Sh. Arun Gupta President Chamber of Commerce & Industry alongwith its office bearers namely Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer called on the Managing Director Jammu Power Development Corporation Sh. Shiv Anand Tayal. During interaction Sh. Arun Gupta raised various pressing issues relating to inflated power bills which are causing distress and unease among the honest consumers and urged the MD JPDCL to immediately stop the installation of smart meters/prepaid meters till the complaints of excess billing of these meters is sorted out to the satisfaction of the general public(consumers) Sh. Arun Gupta asked the MD JPDCL that in case it is utmost necessary to install the smart meters, the consumers /house owner should be intimated first before installation of said meters and the department must show the tag of meter tested as “OK” to the owner of the house, besides the meter must be installed in the premises of the house owner at a suitable and moderate height. Sh. Arun Gupta further apprised the MD JPDCL that PDD should issue clearance certificate regarding previous power bills before installing the new smart meters and the meter reading of both the new as well as existing meters be conveyed to the concerned consumers. Sh. Arun Gupta further briefed the MD JPDCL that when the government is abolishing 15% Electricity duty, the benefit of the same should be passed on to the consumers instead of merging the same with the unit rates and it should also be guaranteed that government will not reintroduce the electricity duty subsequently through a government order. Sh. Arun Gupta further apprised the MD JPDCL that our Industrial Units of R.S.Pura area(Sunderpur) are facing lot of problems / huge losses due to power shut down from 33KVA Miransahib. We request that power shut down if required should be arranged from 11KVA station Sunderpur instead of 33KVA Miransahib. During interaction Sh. Arun Gupta, President referred a case of excess billing of an honest consumer who used to received the electricity bill round about 900 per month before the installation of smart meters and he has cleared all the dues up to date. But after the installation of smart meter he has received the electricity bill of Rs. 65000/-. Managing Director JPDCL acting promptly got the said bill verified. After verification the department clarified that the bill has been generated due to fault and corrected the said bill from Rs. 65000 to 20000/-. Sh. Arun Gupta said that there are so many other cases of honest consumers which need to be verified by the department so that the consumers could pay their electricity dues without any harassment.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/05/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     7th August 2023


Sh. Arun Gupta President Chamber of Commerce & Industry the meeting of the Office Bearers held today expressed his gratitude and thanks to the Union Govt. headed by Sh. NArendra Modi Hon’ble Prime Minister of India for including the Railway Stations of Jammu and Udhampur for redevelopment with world class facilities resembling like Airports.// Chamber also thanks the Hon’ble Union Minister of State in PMO Office Dr. Jatinder Singh and Sh. Jugal Kishore Sharma, Hon’ble MP with whose efforts the Railway Stations of Jammu and Udhampur will get world class facilities. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme involves preparation of Master Plans and their implementation in a phased manner to improve the amenities at the stations like improvement of access to the stations, circulating area, walnut halls, Toilets, Lifts and escalators besides cleanliness, free Wi-Fi etc Further Sh. Arun Gupta ,President CCI request Dr. Jatinder Singh, Hon’ble Union MOS in PMO Office to take up the matter with the Railway Ministry that Jammu Railway Station should get the Divisional Status like Ferozpur though it has been announced years back but no further steps have been taken in this regard. Mr. Gupta also said that only one train is running between Jammu-Haridwar on daily basis. Although a new train has been started but it is running for two days a week. The people of Jammu are travelling Haridwar frequently to perform religious rituals but due to availability of train for 2 days only they are facing lot of inconvenience, we demand that this train should be operated on daily basis Sh. Arun Gupta further said that at present only one train is running between Jammu and Jaipur where from thousands of pilgrims visit to Katra for pilgrimage. There is utter need to introduce new super fast trains from State of Rajasthan especially Jaipur for facilitation of Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Sh. Arun Gupta also demanded that few new trains and some existing ones be restricted exclusively up to the Jammu Railway Station and Visitors be encouraged to travel to the city of Jammu keeping in view its historical importance and in order to give boost to the economy of this city of temples. The other office bearers present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/06/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     5th August 2023


Govt should stop installation of smart meters and prepaid meters : CCI Says inflated bills, location of meters raising apprehensions The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), Jammu, has called upon the Government to address the ongoing concerns surrounding the installation of smart meters in the Jammu region. In this regard, a press conference was convened at the Chamber House today under the chairmanship of Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu in which other office bearers were also present. Arun Gupta raised pressing issues related to inflated power bills and sought transparency and clarification from the Government. Expressing deep concern, he emphasized the urgent need for clarity on the escalating power bills that have caused distress among the populace subsequent to the installation of new smart meters. He questioned the necessity of replacing the existing digital meters with smart meters, urging government to verify the authenticity of these devices. He highlighted the importance of discerning the discrepancies between the old and new power bills. Drawing attention to the potential misuse of digital meters, CCI President underscored the Government's responsibility to elucidate the reasons for this transition and address the concerns of consumers who lack access to information regarding these meters. Arun Gupta also voiced apprehensions about the placement of meters on poles, which has generated unease among the general public. He proposed an alternative approach, suggesting that new Smart Meters should be installed within consumers' homes, as per the past practice, to alleviate such concerns. He also resented over move of Government to switching from Smart Meters to Prepaid Meters within a short timeframe, he argued that this abrupt shift can cause undue mental distress to power consumers, terming it as direct attack on their fundamental rights. President of CCI, Arun Gupta, appealed to the Government to immediately halt the ongoing process of smart meter installations until the raised concerns are effectively addressed. He also demanded that the Government should come up with one time amnesty scheme for commercial users as they are the worst sufferers after the abrogation of article 370 and 35A and also due to Covid-19. The other office bearers present in the press conference include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/27/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     27th July 2023


A delegation of Chamber of Commerce & Industry led by its President Sh. Arun Gupta and accompanied by Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer met the newly appointed Principal of Government Medical College Jammu. Sh. Arun Gupta congratulated the newly appointed Principal and apprised him that the people of Jammu have high hopes from him as he is already serving the people of Jammu and the people expect the best from him as the Principal of Medical College Jammu. Sh. Arun Gupta acknowledge that the emergency services of Medical College are working much above their installed capacity but hope that under his guidance and leadership the emergency services shall be further streamlines. Sh. Arun Gupta requested the Principal Government Medical College that similar emergency services should be started in Gandhi Nagar and Sarwal Hospital to minimize the load on the Government Medical College. He also requested that HDU (High dependency Unit) be started in Gandhi Nagar and Sarwal hospitals so that the patients from the different areas can get the emergency services in a better way in these Hospitals also. He further said that as per the reports from different sectors, the nursing staff needs to be suitably increased to provide better services to the patients as are being provided in the private hospitals. The Principal Government Medical College assured that he will definitely look into the suggestions made by the Chamber and ensure that better services are provided to the patients in the emergency wards and to cater the ever increasing rush of the patients in the emergency wards and if the need arises the emergency wards will be further augmented.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/19/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     19th July 2023


Switching from digital to smart, & now prepaid meters, Govt unnecessary harassing honest consumers: Arun Gupta It is highly obnoxious and unwarranted that the Government in J&K is unnecessarily harassing thousands of honest electricity consumers by frequently switching from digital to smart and now prepaid meters, without initiating consultation with civil society and representative of the people. This was said by Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) in a statement issued to media in presence of Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI and SH. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI. Expressing grave concern over the frequent moves of the government in the name of putting an end to the power theft in J&K, the CCI President said that switching over from one type of meter to another will not serve the purpose because the highest rate of transmission losses are the real culprits. Decrying the government's move of changing the power meters from one technology to another in a short span of time, Arun Gupta said that such kind of harassment amounts to mental agony to PDD consumers and in a way is an attack on fundamental rights. He said that Jammu Power Development Corporation Ltd (JPDCL) is torturing people by adopting new methods to collect revenue, which is unacceptable and illogical because the people in J&K are already paying income tax, GST, water bills, power bills, etc without fail despite absence of any prepaid methodology then why government needs advance payment (prepaid system) from consumers to provide electricity, which is an essential service and the government is bound to ensure power supply to each and every household and business establishments. CCI President castigated the policy makers of the J&K Government for taking such drastic steps to tackle the simple problem of non-payment of power bills. He said that people in Jammu and Kashmir are respectable citizens of the country and not traitors, therefore the government should not persecute or torment them in such a manner which snatches away their peace of mind. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that the consumers are complaining that smart meters are running very fast as compared to digital meters installed earlier. We asked the government whether the digital meters are showing wrong reading or the smart meters are wrong. The areas where the smart meters are installed are also not being spared from the unscheduled power cuts. We are of the firm view that the smart meters should not be installed to harass the honest consumers unless and until the things are set right. Further Arun Gupta also highlighted that as per the communication from the Industrialists of R.S.Pura there is no separate feeder for Industries as such they are facing lot of hardships in running their Industrial units but there is no one to listen or solve their problems even after so many representations. We request the electric department to listen to their genuine grievances and act accordingly to minimize their suffering .

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/13/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     13th July 2023


Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu welcomes the Yatries coming from different States/Cities of the Country to have darshan of Baba Amarnath. Chamber always feels that the pilgrims should get all the required facilities whether it is from the administration or from the local people who are always ready to help the needy pilgrims. In this context to facilitate the easy movement of Handicapped and elderly pilgrims and tourists, Sh. Arun Gupta President Chamber of Commerce & Industry accompanied by Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta Treasurer today provided four wheel chairs to the Railway Authorities of Jammu Tawi Railway Station. The Station Master of Jammu Railway Station alongwith Superintendent of Railways highly appreciate this gesture of Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu who always have been at the forefront to render all possible help to the Needy. The Chamber urges the government and also the general public to ensure hassle free yatra of Amarnath yatries so that they do not feel disparity while performing their yatra.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/04/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     4th July 2023


Chamber welcome the decision of the Hon’ble LG Sh. Manoj Sinha to provide 5 marlas land to the landless families A meeting of the office bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry was held today at Chamber house under the Presidentship of Sh. Arun Gupta. The meeting appreciated the decision of the government to provide 5 marlas land to the landless families here to construct their houses under Pradhanmantri Awas Yojna. Sh. Arun Gupta said that our Hon’ble Prime Minister is keen to provide all basic essential facilities to the poor and the needy people whether it is education, Medical facility or other house hold things. The Hon’ble Prime Minister has earlier announced a scheme under Pradhanmantri Awas Yojna so that the people who do not have any kind of shelter will be given a constructed house where their families/children can live in a dignified manner. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that though as per information 2711 landless families who do not have any kind of shelter have been provided plots and we are sure that under the a guidance of the hon’ble LG the poor and needy landless people will be provided cash assistants to construct their houses. Further the Chamber appreciates the arrangements made by the administration for smooth, comfortable and hassle free pilgrimage of holy Shri Amarnath. He said still there are various issues which need to be addressed and the administration should listen to those who have come here for darshan of holy Baba Amarnath. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that the traffic movement on the national highway needs to be monitored at the highest level as due to long traffic jams pilgrims and other commuters are facing lot of problems to reach their destinations The other office bearers of CCI present in the meeting Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/14/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     14th June 2023


On the request of President Chamber of Commerce & Industry Sh. Arun Gupta, DIG Traffic Sh. Shridhar Patil, IPS visited Chamber House alongwith SSP Traffic Rural Sh. Vijay Kumar and SSP Traffic City Sh. Faisal Qureshi and interacted with the Sr. Members of Chamber of Commerce & Industry. While expressing gratitude and thanks to Shridhar Patil, IPS, DIG Traffic for sparing his valuable time to interact with Office Bearers and Sr. Members of CCI said that our Transporters, Traders and Industrialists are facing lot of problems after unloading their trucks at Srinagar and proceed back to Jammu and request for instituting appropriate measures for its streamlining. The condition of the highway and bottlenecks there to, are known to the administration and stakeholders, yet some appropriate measures will be helpful for free flow of the downward traffic. The upward and downward movements of load carriers are on alternate days. The upward convoy movement from Jammu to Srinagar is regulated forward from Nagrota-Jajjar Kotli-Udhampur-Jakahani barriers. In such an arrangement the trucks reach the destination next day morning in a smooth manner. However after unloading are made to halt for a day at Mir Bazar. Thereafter the trucks are also made to halt at bonigaum and in this way it takes 8 to 10 days to cover the distance of 20-25 km from Mir Bazar to Qazikund. Further due to landslides unsuitable road conditions and inclement whether they are forced to halt at Vulnerable stretches. Which adds another 2-3 days in time line. In addition, another reason for piling of the trucks at the above barriers is that the trucks for down movement are lined up and not allowed to break the queue, but the local trucks with Registration Digits (of 01) /drivers are reported to be proceeding from the wrong side and from numerous lateral/feeder roads to the new tunnel, thus bypassing all the barriers. Such trucks when reaching the New Tunnel get preferential way down where the trucks are released in a phased manner due to the road/tunnel capacity/safety limitations, while the queues at the barriers keep on getting longer. It may be appreciated that in such a scenario, all of this activity is creating cascading and debilitating effect on the turnaround time and recycling of the trucks, is considered avoidable wastage of man hours, under utilisation of the precious human and mechanical resources and at micro level it translates into undue administrative and physical inconvenience to the truckers, financial loss to individual drivers as also to business establishments; all impacting the business environment negatively. We further suggest that the ONLY empty trucks of 12/14 tyres category be permitted to take a detour from Shopian via the Mughal Road on to Jammu to partially address the situation. This arrangement was in place in the year 2022-23 but no more allowed now. Sh. Arun Gupta also pointed out that the Amarnath Yatra is going to start from 1st July 2023. We request that the Transport Department should not disturb and penalize pilgrims tourist during Amarnath Yatra Period. We further request not to penalize those who are making efforts to facilitate the pilgrims by way of providing them eating facility etc. During interaction Sh. Arun Gupta also said that with the construction of the flyover from Canal Road to Muthi the businessmen of the Canal Road are feeling harassed as the traffic police did not allow the vehicles of the customers to be parked outside their shops/establishments rather they immediately penalize the customers for parking their vehicles there. We request to come up with a solution so that the traffic in this area plies without any hurdle and also the customers who visit there for shopping purposes get suitable parking facility for their vehicles. While reacting Sh. Shridhar Patil, IPS DIG Traffic said that the issue regarding movement of Commercial vehicle from Jammu to Srinagar and from Srinagar to Jammu shall be resolved within 2-3 days and the issues of Amarnath Yatra and Canal Road Parking will be resolved after discussions with the concerned officers on duties in these areas. Sh. Arun Gupta also lauded the commendable work done by Sh. K.K.Gandhi our member and a renowned artist(Painter). During his stay as artist in residence Hallein, Salzburg Austria he was chosen as a peace messenger in recognition of his work and he received a sculptor of a bronze dove that represents peace from the silent night museum Hallein Salzburg Austria. Sh. Arun Gupta congratulated Mr. K.K.Gandhi on receiving this peace dove(Gruber Taube) that will travel across India and finally reach back to Austria during the pre Christmas season. Today Mr. Gandhi handed over the peace dove to Sh. Ajay Mathur, President Taj Ma Hallein(NGO)in Chamber House.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/06/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     6th June 2023


The Office Bearers and Senior Members of Chamber of Commerce & Industry under the Presidentship of Sh. Arun Gupta met Sh. Hardeep Singh Puri, Hon’ble Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and Petroleum and Natural Gas. At the outset Sh. Arun Gupta expressed gratitude and thanks to the Hon’ble Union Minister for providing an opportunity to interact and put forth before him the issues and problems being faced by the business community and the general public of Jammu. Sh. Arun Gupta also requested the Hon’ble Union Minister to take up the issues pertaining to the local housing and urban development department with the concerned higher authorities for their early redressal. While speaking on the occasion Sh. Arun Gupta briefed the Hon’ble Union Minister that there is urgent need to develop the commercial sites and residential colonies as since last 3 decades no such sites or colonies have been developed by the J&K Housing Board and JDA. Further the allottees of Channi Himat area have been asked to construct their houses on the allotted land otherwise the allotment will be cancelled. Our submission is that instead of harassing the allottees, these departments should focus on establishing new commercial sites and residential colonies. Sh. Arun Gupta also pointed out that inspite of depositing the prescribed fee the lease deeds in respect of shops at Shiv Market Railway Station have not been executed by JDA since last 15 years. These lease deeds should be executed without any further delay. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that the lease deeds of allottees of Sabzi Mandi and Fruit Mandi Narwal, which have expired be renewed at the earliest after charging minimum possible premium. Sh. Arun Gupta also apprised the Hon’ble Union Minister that JDA is proposing to build a multi storey complex in old bus stand area without framing any rehabilitation policy for the present business outlets who are working there since the bus stand came into existence. Before proceeding further in the matter, JDA should frame a rehabilitation policy in consultation with the stakeholders. Sh. Arun Gupta also briefed the Hon’ble Union Minister that Gandhi Nagar Housing Colony was established in the year 1995 to decongest the old city area and since then there is manifold increase in the family members of the allottees. Further though the Gandhi Nagar area has been declared free hold but the rule of undivided plots still exists and the allottees are not allowed to divide their plots or construct separate houses on the said plots. In addition to this the housing board has allotted plots of 20 marlas to some allottees but 4-5 marlas extra land is under their possession. Earlier there was a scheme under which the allottees had the option to regularize the whole extra land but now the department has directed that only 2.5 marlas of extra land can be regularized and remaining will be retrieved. Our submission is that the entire chunk of extra land be regularized in favour of such plot holders as envisaged in the previous scheme. While reacting Sh. Hardeep Singh Puri, Hon’ble Union Minister said that the focus of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India and the BJP government his overall development of Jammu and Kashmir and we are on the job to achieve the goal. Further he said that the issues raised in the meeting pertain to the local housing and urban development department and he assured that these issues shall be taken up with the local higher authorities for their early redressal. Among others present in the meeting include Sh. Jugal Kishore Sharma, hon’ble MP, Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta , Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI, Sh. Romesh Chander Gupta, Ex-President CCI,Sh. Sham Lal Sharma, former Minister J&K, Sh. Shiv Partap Gupta, Sh. Jagdish Langer, Sh. Rahul Ji, Corporator, Sh. Neeraj Lucky Puri , Sh. Vinay Gupta, Sh. Subash Gupta and Sh. Vijay Gupta.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/18/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     26th May 2023


A delegation of Office Bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Sr. Members from Trade and Industry called on Ms. Nirmala Sitharaman, Hon’ble Union Finance Minister at New Delhi. At the outset Sh. Arun Gupta thanked the Union Finance Minister for giving an opportunity to interact also put before her the problems being faced by Trade, Commerce and Industry. While speaking on the occasion Sh. Arun Gupta pleaded with Finance Minister that keeping in view the climatic, demographic conditions and security reasons the limit of e-way bill should be enhanced from Rs, 50000/- to Rs. 1 lakhs and the period of e-way bills should also be suitably enhanced in the smaller cities like Jammu. Sh. Arun Gupta also requested the Hon’ble Finance Minister to enhance the date for filling of GSTR-3B and setup GST tribunal at Jammu. Further the delayed payment Act which at present is applicable to MSME Registered Industrial Units only may please made available for MSME registered firms also as they are not getting the benefit of delayed payment act. Sh. Arun Gupta apprised the Union Finance Minister that GST applicable on Dhabas and small traders should be withdrawn as they are not getting the input facility. We also request that the smaller traders should not be penalized for meager technical mistakes. We also request that one time GST amnesty for those who have not filed their proper returns or have not applied for GST refunds due to ignorance may kindly be given one time chance to file their returns and apply for GST refund. We also request that one time VAT amnesty in our state be given for giving relief to the assesses. Sh. Arun Gupta also briefed the Finance Minister that Jammu has lot of tourists potential, but has been neglected so far. He requested the Finance Minister that steps should be taken to develop the untapped tourist places of Jammu. Further the Suchetgarh Retreat ceremony be made a regular feature for all the days of week. President CCI Sh. Arun Gupta also requested the Hon’ble Finance Minister that in order to generate employment opportunities and flourish the ancillary units, the mother industry like Rail Coach Factory, Defence Equipment manufacturing Factory and Rail Container manufacturing factory be established in Jammu. Sh. Arun Gupta thanked the Union Government for providing the Central Scheme Package of Rs. 28400/- crore for New Industries. This package is purely for New Industrial units only including the benefit of GST are to be given only to the new Industrial undertakings as a result of which it will be very difficult / impossible for the existing Industrial Units of Jammu region to survive and become viable, he said and requested that all the concessions which are being extended to the new Industrial Units may also be given to the existing Industrial Units to survive. Further he requested that the freight subsidy upto National Capital be provided to save the existing industries here. Further Sh. Arun Gupta apprised the Finance Minister that the current central package has ignored the export manufactures with no incentives. To check the price pilferage and better flourishment of walnut industries, quantity based tax be considered as is being done in case of almonds. He also requested the finance minster to establish export promotion industrial park and SEZ zones. Sh. Arun Gupta also request the Finance Minister that 100% Income Tax exemption be provided to the export units. Hon’ble Union Finance Minister Smt. Sitharaman gave patient hearing to the demands raised by the Chamber of Commerce & Industry and assured that we will look into the issues related to their department and the issues pertaining to the other departments will be taken up with them on priority. Besides CCI President Arun Gupta other delegation members comprises of Senior Vice President CCI Anil Gupta, Junior Vice President CCI Rajiv Gupta, General Secretary CCI Manish Gupta, Secretary CCI Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI Rajesh Gupta, and President Traders Federation Ware House, Deepak Gupta, President Retailers Federation, Yashpaul Gupta, President JPDCL, Rajan Gupta, Ravinder Sawhney, Jagdish Langer, CA Pardeep Gandotra, Suraj Singh, Neeraj Gupta, Ravneesh Gulati and Pragya Gandotra.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/18/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     25 May 2023


A delegation of Office bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry alongwith Sr. members from Trade and Industry under the Presidentship of Sh. Arun Gupta called on Dr. Jitendra Singh Hon’ble Union Minister of State(Independent charge) Ministry of Earth Sciences, Science and Technology, Minister of State PMO and Minister of State of Personal and Public Grievances. At the outset Sh. Arun Gupta thanked Dr. Jitendra Singh for arranging the meeting with Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman , Hon’ble Union Finance Minster at New Delhi. During interaction Sh. Arun Gupta apprised Dr. Jitendra Singh that the new investors are struggling hard to find suitable developed Industrial land for setting up their projects, but they are not getting proper place for investments due to existing land policy and the circle rates which are very high. Sh. Arun Gupta also apprised Dr. Jitendra Singh that the existing Industrial units are not getting any kind of incentives in the new Industrial policy as a result, it is very difficult for the existing Industrial units of Jammu to survive. Further there is urgent need to develop new housing colonies as well as commercial sites so that the educated unemployed youth who want to start their ventures for earning livelihood can be absorbed. Sh. Arun Gupta also briefed Dr. Jitendra Singh that in the near future the rail is going upto Srinagar which will further effect the trade sector of Jammu. Thus there is urgent need to develop the untapped tourists places in Jammu so that tourists are attracted to visit the tourists places of Jammu Province which otherwise have been neglected so far. We request that tourists potential of Jammu region together with tourists attractive places in Poonch,Rajouri districts should be tapped in right earnest. Similarly religiously important places like Shiv Khori, Mata Vaishno Devi ,Sudh Mahadev,Chichi Mata, Chandi Mata and tourists attractive places like Patnitop, Sanasar should be inter connected by improving road and erecting picnic spots on route. Historical natural water lakes like Mansar&Surinsar should be developed on modern lines to attract tourists. Sh. Arun Gupta also requested Dr. Jitendra Singh that the CBI cases against the hoteliers of Patnitop be got solved at the earliest so that the commercial activities can be started over there. Sh. Rajan Gupta, President JPDA raised the issue of Online supply of medicines and said that the same should be checked on priority by the concerned department so that it is ensured that no one can misuse the unchecked medicines of unfair means. Sh. Deepak Gupta President Traders Federation Warehouse said that though the development is there but the small traders are being harassed. Other Office Bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry present in the deputation who called on Dr. Jitendra Singh at New Delhi include Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer and other Trade Members who accompanied the delegation include Sh. Jagdish Langer, Sh. Yashpal Gupta, Sh. Pardeep Gandotra, Sh. Neeraj Gupta, Sh. Suraj Singh, Sh. Pragya Gandotra.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/18/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     18th May 2023


Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI held a Press Conference today at Chamber House. While addressing the media persons Sh. Arun Gupta said holding the G-20 Summit at SKICC Srinagar between 22 to 24 May 2023 is a great pride for us. Over 100 Non-Ministerial Members representing G-20 nations are excepted to participate in the said summit. Aside from G-20 Members the delegates from Guest Countries are also likely to participate in the event. This event will have lasting impact on Trade, Commerce, Industry and Tourism Sector of UT of Jammu & Kashmir as well as across the country. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that this high profile summit will not only provide an opportunity for India to showcase the reality to the world that normalcy has returned in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir but will also paved way for India to counter the Pakistan fake claims of human rights violations. This summit will eventually result in increasing the tourist flow, enhance economic benefits and generation of employment opportunities for the localities and will make it a stable destination for investments. Speaking on the occasion Sh. Arun Gupta said that Hon’ble LG Sh. Manoj Sinha is taking keen interest to make this event a great success which will open new Vistas and opportunities for the stake holders to get maximum benefit out of this summit. Further Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI requests the Union Government that if possible, the government should arrange the visit of the delegates attending the summit, to Jammu areas also so that they can visit the world famous places like Patnitop, Sudhmahadev, Mantalai and the lakes of Surinsar, Mansar and the holy shrine of Mata Vaishnodevi in Katra . These places are being visited by the lakhs of the people. The visit of the delegates to Jammu areas will prove as a mile stone for improving the tourism sector of Jammu. Among others present in the Press Conference include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vic President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/13/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     13 May 2023


A delegation of Office bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry under the Presidentship of Sh. Arun Gupta Called on Additional Commissioner State Taxes Department Ms. Namrata Dogra and discussed with her various issues confronting the Trade and Industry including the issue of unnecessary harassment of traders by enforcement wing of the State Taxes Department. Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI told the Additional Commissioner that some officers of the enforcement wing of State Taxes Department are unnecessarily harassing and penalizing the traders due to technical mistakes. Further, he said that the officers on duty are penalizing the traders on the pretext that the traders have not obtained GST Invoice in their name and have purchased the goods on cash memo. In this matter Sh. Arun Gupta also said that if a dealer is not getting a GST Invoice he is not applying for input tax. It is our request that on these small bills there should be no penalty. In some places the officials of the enforcement wing of checking each and every vehicle and even those who have invoice of below Rs. 30,000/- are not being spared. As they have no proper GST invoice and they have only cash bills. We are of the opinion that unnecessary harassment should be avoided During interaction the matter of enhancement of time limit of e-way bills was discussed wherein Sh. Arun Gupta said that taking into consideration the climatic and the demographic conditions the parties whose e-way bill has expired should not be penalized rather they should be given time to explain the reason behind the delay. Further sometimes the vehicles in which the goods are despatched to some faraway places gets stranded due to mechanical fault and the party has to change the goods from one vehicle to another vehicle. The enforcement wing of the State taxes department should take lenient view rather than penalizing the concerned parties Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI also brought into her notice the matter relating to shop to shop checking by the State Taxes Department which is not acceptable as it will create undue panic and unnecessary harassment to the business community. The Additional Commissioner assured the Chamber team that the official of the State Taxes Department shall visit the premises of the traders to check their registration certification only which should be displayed by the traders at a visible place of their business premises. There will be no harassment by the State Taxes Department to the members of the business community The others who accompanied the delegation include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/06/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     6th May 2023


Chamber of Commerce & Industry strongly condemns the dastardly act of terrorists of yesterday blast and encounter in Rajouri. Chamber of Commerce & Industry salutes and pays homage to the brave Officers and Soldiers who sacrificed their lives in defending the mother land and common man. Chamber demands that the terrorists and their ground workers wherever they are operating should be eliminated Fundamentalists of all hues are perplexed and worried with the peace , tranquility and ,brotherhood between different communities and wants to destabilize this bonhomie. Chamber of Commerce & Industry firmly believes that people of Jammu will not get trapped in their nefarious designs and will firmly uphold their credentials of secularism. Chamber of Commerce & Industry requests the International Community to raise their voice against the terrorism of all kinds and urges the UNO to strictly sensor the Pakistan for their open supports and promotion of terrorism in J&K.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     9th March 2023


Sh. Arun Gupta President Chamber of Commerce & Industry today addressed a Press Conference at Chamber House and while apprising the Media Persons Sh. Arun Gupta said that the government has imposed the property tax without consulting anybody and also without taking into confidence the business community and the general public. He also said that Chamber out rightly rejects/opposes the imposition the property tax w.e.f 01-04-2023. He said that presently the government has no land policy so that the people of J&K can get the ownership rights/lease rights. The people of Jammu are much disturbed due to non cooperative attitude of the government and instead of giving any relief to the people government has imposed property tax which actually is the prerogative of the elected government/municipal corporation and local bodies. He also said the government is taking the plea that the property tax is imposed all over the country and in Jammu due to the policy of Neeti Udyog the grant provided to the municipal corporations and local bodies cannot be released unless and until the property tax is imposed in J&K. we are of the view that this is the prerogative of the elected government and elected members of the municipal corporation/local bodies to impose such type of property tax. But the government bypassed the local municipal corporations/local bodies and issued the notification SRO-87 regarding imposition of property tax in J&K. The comparison between Jammu and Chandigarh cannot be justified as Chandigarh is a fully developed UT whereas Jammu is under developed UT. Moreover as per the statements and hoardings of the government that government is imposing meager tax whereas the property tax structure is a big jolt for the business community. Even the hoardings and the statements it is said that only 500,1000 and 2000 tax will be imposed whereas actually if we calculate the tax structure imposed on commercial areas, it is too high and even the shops which are not operational and the buildings which are not under working conditions are also liable to pay property tax. Chamber is ready to talk on the table but no such communication has been received from the government. We on behalf of the business community of the Jammu province announce one day peaceful Jammu Bandh on Saturday 11th March 2023 to press the government to rescind the order of imposing the property tax and if the government fails to understand the feeling of the Jammu people than we shall have no other alternative but to announce continuous shut down of business establishments. Prominent among others present in the Press Conference include Sh. Happy Singh, President Yuva Rajput Sabha & his team, Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI,Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Sh. Sanjay Kumar, President Raghunath BAzar Businessmen Association, Sh. Ashish Gupta, General Secretary Kanak Mandi, Sh. Suraj Parkash, President BC Road, Sh. Ramesh Tak, President Bus Stand, Sh. Anil Gupta, Bahu Plaza, Sh. Surinder Mahajan, Puranimandi , Sh. Vishal Gupta, President Canal Road, Sh. Rajan Gupta, General Secretary, Bus stand, Sh. Ravinder Sawhney and others.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     24 February 2023


Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI held a Press Conference today at Chamber House. While addressing the media persons Sh. Arun Gupta said that govt had last year decided to take this initiative, but CCI played its due role and took up this issue with the government and successfully got it stalled. Now again the government had decided to implement the property tax w.e.f 1st April 2023 and issued a statutory order SO-87 in this regard. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that at present there is no land policy and we are of the firm opinion that government should come up with a land policy so that the people of Jammu and Kashmir can get the ownership rights / lease rights. At present the people of Jammu are much disturbed by non cooperative attitude of the government instead of giving relief to the general public, government is imposing this property tax. The business community has out rightly rejected imposition of this property tax in the meeting held yesterday in Chamber House and the participants/ Presidents of different Bazar and Trade Associations unanimously opposed the implementation of Property Tax and demanded immediate withdrawal of this SRO. They were of the firm opinion that if the government refuses to withdraw this SRO the Chamber should go for Jammu Bandh. By imposing property tax the government is of the view that by way of imposing the property tax the, municipal bodies and local bodies will get central aid which otherwise they are loosing due to non-implementation of property tax. We are of the firm opinion that the states where this property tax is applicable they are already developed state/UT’s and our comparison with the nearby State/UT’s cannot be justified. If we compare the tax rates applicable in Chandigarh UT this way we are comparing highly developed UT with our under developed UT, even where the basic amenities which are required by common people are not available here. Chamber is of the firm opinion that this SRO should be withdrawn by the government to give a sigh of relief to the people of Jammu and Kashmir UT. Further if the government fails to understand our feeling than we shall have no other option but to go for a bandh call by consulting civil societies, Bar Association and others.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     23rd February 2023


CCI appeals Admin to keep property tax in abeyance Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu while asserting that this is not the proper time for implementation of Property Tax statute has appealed to the Union Territory Administration to keep the concerned Statutory Order(S.O.) 87 in abeyance till the time people at large are properly educated about property tax rules and procedures. This was expressed by Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu while addressing an emergent meeting of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries held here today at the Chamber House to discuss the issue of property tax imposition from 1st April 2023. The meeting attended by the representatives of various Bazaar Associations of Jammu was chaired by the CCI President Arun Gupta. While addressing the meeting, Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu apprised the members in detail about the move of Govt to implement property tax. He said that the Govt had decided to take this initiative last year but the Chamber of Commerce and Industries played its due role by intervening and taking up the matter with the Govt and successfully getting it stalled. Arun Gupta said that the Chamber is not against the property tax but feels that it is not the right time to implement the property tax. He further said that government is busy in harassing the people of Jammu in one way or the other way, every department is open to issue show cause notices and eviction notices to the business community and now the government has introduced the new tax in the shape of property tax. He also said that government is comparing this property tax with those states who are already developed states but as far as Jammu is concerned we are far away from getting even the basic amenities, moreover the Jammu and Kashmir was previously a state and now the government has converted Jammu and Kashmir into a UT. There is need to understand that Jammu has not got the proper shape of development and until and unless our UT is properly developed we request to keep this order of property tax in abeyance. In the meeting the representative of Bazar Associations and Trade Associations unanimously opposed the decision of the government to impose property tax and also they were of the opinion that if the government does not withdraw this order of property tax then chamber should take the lead and call for a Jammu Bandh. They further said that they will voluntarily close their business establishments on the appeal of Chamber of Commerce & Industry if the government will not stop harassing the trading community Among others present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCi, Sh. Shiv Partap Gupta, Sh. Ravinder Goel, Sh. Murari Lal Balgotra, Sh. Ashwani Gupta, Sh. Sanjay Gupta, Sh. Rajan Gupta, Sh. Anoop MIttal besides Presidents/ General Secretaries of different Bazar and Trade Associations.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     20th February 2023


Sh. Pashupati Kumar Paras Hon’ble Union Minister for Food Processing today visited Chamber House and interacted with Office bearers and Sr. Members of CCI besides representatives of the different trade bodies. While speaking on the occasion Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI apprised the Hon’ble Union Minister that nature has showered his blessings on UT of Jammu & Kashmir in nature of agricultural produce, organic produce, mineral & mining produce, but unfortunately people of Jammu are not getting due share of all these produces. Sir, the items which are produce in Kashmir Valley are Apple, Plump, Walnuts Almonds and Kesar etc. while as in Jammu Rice, Rajmah, grapes, Guava etc. are produced in rich quantity Previously the food park were announced in Jammu and Kashmir and one food park was developed in Kashmir Valley but unfortunately Jammu was deprived of getting the benefit of developing the food park. We request that food park as well as food laboratories should be developed in all the districts of J&K. Although one food laboratory has been given clearance by your department and we have full faith for your cooperation on allowing the food laboratory function in Jammu. Though the Union Government has imposed 100% import duty on Walnuts to help the small growers but still small growers are not getting the sufficient price of their produce. We request your goodself to consider our plea and consider the quantity based tax on Walnuts as is being done in case of almonds for better flourishment of walnut industry in the country the country. Further previously when there was a state industrial policy some items were brought in the category of negative list and the mustered oil was also one of the item mentioned in the said negative list. We request to abolish the negative list and if any particular item is in the Union Government negative list that should be applicable in our UT also. While speaking on the occasion The Hon’ble Union Minister said that the demand of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry regarding Tax on Walnuts and abolition of negative list, I will definitely look into it and growers of walnuts will get their due price and also the negative list if possible shall be removed. Further he said that the government has introduced the new policy regarding food parks and now we are going to develop mini food parks instead of the food parks developed previously and anybody can avail the benefit of the schemes and my door are always open for everyone who wants to visit our department and avail the benefits of the any scheme as per our policy. Those who were present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI, Sh. Shiv Partap Gupta, Sh, Rajendra Motial, Sh. Ravinder Sawhney, Sh. Sham Lal Langer, Sh. Krishan Lal Gupta, Sh. Vishwamitter Gupta, Sh. Jatinder Pinky Jain, Sh. Rajinder Parshad, Ms. Pooja Kapoor, Sh. Bimal Manchanda and Presidents/Representatives of different Bazar Association

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     1st February 2023


CCI hails Union Budget, terms it progressive, soothing for common man The Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Wednesday welcomed the Union Budget claiming it to be soothing and progressive. In a statement issued to media persons, Arun Gupta President CCI Jammu said that much sought after cuts in tax slab will definitely go a long way in comforting the people especially the middle class which was facing troubles in the past due to inflation and other compulsions affecting household budgets. Arun Gupta however said that the traders were expecting big sops and provisions for giving a push to their businesses which is lacking in this budget but overall the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has taken care of all sections of the society through a balanced approach and ensuring a trade-off between different entities.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     27h January 2023


CCI celebrates 74th Republic Day with patriotic fervor Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI), Jammu celebrated the 74th Republic Day with great fervour here today. An impressive programme was organized at the Chamber House which commenced with the hoisting of National Flag by Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jammu in presence of other office bearers and senior members of the CCI. On the occasion, Arun Gupta unfurled the National Flag after which the whole premises reverberated with the singing of National Anthem amid salutations to the National Tricolour and the martyrs who laid down their lives while protecting the territorial integrity of the nation on the borders and the hinterland. In his address, Arun Gupta threw light on the martyrdom of freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the cause of the nation and its people as a result of which the people of the World’s largest Democracy are enjoying full freedom and self esteem having earned honour and dignity at the global level. Gupta said that Republic Day is the most auspicious day for the whole nation and its people and being the most vibrant democracy of the world, it deserves to be celebrated like a festival with full enthusiasm and gaiety amid participation of people from diverse cultures as ‘Unity in Diversity’ is the hallmark of the Indian democracy. The Chamber President assured that CCI members will leave no stone unturned in taking J&K on the glorious path of development and prosperity.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     19th January 2023


In a meeting of the Office bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry held today at Chamber House, Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI hailed the government of Jammu and Kashmir for accepting the long pending demand of Chamber for opening the issuance of New Arms Licenses for self defence so that minority community can take the benefit of the government policy. Sh. Arun Gupta said that we are grateful to the government especially the Home Ministry for taking cognizance of recent killing incidents followed by IED Blasts in Dhangri Village of Rajouri and opened the issuance the individual Arms Licenses vide government order no. 30/home of 2023 dated 18-01-2023. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that this step of the government will instill confidence among the minority community. The office bearers present in the meeting also include Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta Treasurer.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     5th January 2023


Brace-up security grid, mobilize intelligence network to deter terror attack in future: CCI urges LG Sinha The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu today paid tributes to minority community people, who lost their precious lives in the ghastly terror strike in village Dhangri of district Rajouri that left the entire Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir into deep pain and anger. In a programme held at Chamber House Jammu, Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu along with its office bearers prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls and courage to kith and kin to bear with the irreparable loss inflicted upon them by the ultras working on the behest of rogue nation Pakistan. Later talking to media persons at Chamber House, Arun Gupta said that the situation in J&K has turned grim with terrorists now carrying out targeted killings at their will in Jammu region as well. “After the killing spree in the Valley wherein many lives perished under the targeted killing ploy of the terror outfits, the situation in Jammu province has become crucial and if the government will not take some out of the box steps, it will become difficult for the common man to live under such situation where fear psychosis is ruling the roost,” he added. CCI President asked the LG’s administration to brace-up the security grid and mobilize the intelligence network to ensure that such horrendous attacks should be stopped in the coming time. He urged the government to leave no stone unturned to bring to book the terrorists involved in this barbaric act of violence. Arun Gupta also blamed the administration for disarming the Village Defence Committees (VDCs) especially in border districts of Rajouri and Poonch to put their lives at risk. He said had the VDCs not been disarmed in Upper Dhangri, precious lives of six innocent people would have not been lost. He said the VDCs constituted way back in 1996 when the militancy was at its peak in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir have now been made totally defunct by the authorities. “VDCs did a yeoman’s job in combating militancy in erstwhile Doda district as well as other militancy infested areas of Jammu region,” he said, adding unfortunately the Government has disarmed them and made them defunct in various parts of the region due to which the militants got a free chance to strike at will wherever they like. Jammu Chamber President appealed to the government to establish VDCs along entire border belt right from Lakhanpur to Poonch in Jammu region to check the infiltration and attacks by militants. Arun Gupta also raised serious concern over not arrest of truck driver involved in recent terror strike at Sidhra. He appealed to the LG Sinha to revamp the entire security network and put the culprits involved in the terror related activities behind the bars. Arun Gupta said that now all the eyes are on LG’s administration to take this terror related case to its logical conclusion by eliminating each and every entity involved in the crime so that people who are in constant fear repose faith in the government and normalcy could be restored in the aforesaid district. He also sought demanded adequate security arrangements in the Jammu Province also to deter such ghastly attempts by ultras in the future Those who were present in the meeting include Sh. Davinder Gupta, President Fruit Market Association, Sh. Surinder Mahajan, Chairman Purani Mandi Trader Association, Sh. Anoop Mittal, President Kanak Mandi Traders Association, Sh. Ashish Gupta, General Secretary Kanak Mandi Traders Association, Sh. Dharminder Mahajan, President Shalamar Traders Association, Sh, Joginder Gupta, General Secretary OHR Traders Association, Sh. Vishwamitter, President Shiv Market Railway Station Traders Association, Sh. Krishnan Kutty, General Secretary Shiva Market Railway Station Traders Association, Sh. Rajinder Parsad, Vice President Shiv Market Railway Station Traders Association Sh. Charanjeet Singh, President Wine Traders Association, Sh. Harbinder Singh, Residency Road Traders Association, Sh. Harish Gupta, President Pacca Danga Traders Association, Sh. Raj Kumar Babbar, President Swarnkar Sang, Sh. Daljeet Singh Bumrah, General Secretary Shalamar Traders Association, Sh. Daleep Gupta, Secretary, Shalamar Traders Association, Sh. Ramesh Tak, President Bus Stand Traders Association The CCI team members present on the occasion included Rajeev Gupta, Junior Vice President CCI , Rajesh Gupta Secretary and Rajesh Gupta Treasurer. Others who attended the meeting were Subash Dableria, Jagdish Langer, Vishal Gupta, Ravinder Sawhney , Hira Lal Abrol, Sanjay Aggarwal, Anil Gupta, KK Khosa, Bharat Bhushan Gupta and Charanjit Singh.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/23/2023                                                              Press Note                                                     2nd January 2023


CCI condemns Rajouri attack, terms it ‘despicable act’ by Pakistan The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu on Monday condemned the Rajouri terrorist attack terming it another despicable act of violence by Pakistan and demanded adequate security arrangements in the Jammu Province also to deter such ghastly attempts by ultras in the future. In a statement issued to media persons, President CCI Jammu Arun Gupta said that the situation in J&K has turned grim with terrorists now carrying out targeted killings at their will in Jammu region as well. He said that firing incident in Dhangri village of Rajouri followed by IED blast is enough to prove that no one is safe in the UT as terrorists are targeting the vulnerable sections without any fear of law. He demanded that the government should brace-up the security grid and mobilize the intelligence network to ensure that such horrendous attacks should be stopped in the coming time. Gupta said that after the killing spree in the Valley wherein many lives perished under the targeted killing ploy of the terror outfits, the situation in Jammu province has become crucial and if the government will not take some out of the box steps, it will become difficult for the common man to live under such situation where fear psychosis is ruling the roost. CCI President said that the government should come up with a foolproof security strategy to ensure the safety of all, especially the Hindu community, which is by and large the main target of the ultras active in the UT. He said that there is need to further boost up security to instill confidence among the citizenry as after every terror attack whether in Kashmir region or Jammu people are losing faith in the security edifice in vogue in J&K.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     21th December 2022


CCI President flags off players for Inter Zonal National Veteran Championship Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce and Industries Jammu today flagged off former Ranji Player, Member Indian Cricketers Association and Captain of JK Veterans along with other three J&K based players for their participation in the Inter Zonal National Veteran Championship which is scheduled to be held at Indore, Madhya Pradesh from 22nd to 27th of December, 2022. Pertinent to mention here that the Selection Committee of Indian Veteran Cricket Association of India has also announced the North Zone Veteran Cricket Team after conducting the trials at New Delhi which includes Rajesh Gill, Nikhil Parikh, Sanjeev Seth, GS Harry, Vipin Sharma, Satish Saraf, Dhiraj Kumar, Haseeb Rehman, RK Bhat, Samir Mukherjee, Ratan Sharma, Radha Kant, Raju Arora and Vivek Suri. The Selection Committee headed by Sanjay Sinha, Director of the VCI has selected Rajesh Gill as Captain of North Zone Veteran Cricket Team. It needs to mention here that six teams including North Zone Warriors, Central Strikers, Eastern Dynamos, Western Lions, Southern Gazellelles and Global Patriots are the participating teams in the Inter Zonal National Championship. Four players from Jammu and Kashmir have been selected which include Rajesh Gill, R.K Bhat, Haseeb Rehman and Vivek Suri for the Inter Zonal National Veteran Championship. Arun Gupta extended best wished to Rajesh Gill, Captain who is leading the North Zone Veteran Cricket Team and hoped that the selected players will bring laurels to Jammu and Kashmir by giving their best performance and winning the championship. The Indian Veterans Cricket Team will be picked based on the performances including the Inter Zonal Matches and the selected Indian Veteran Team will take part in the forthcoming World Cup in March, 2023 at Cape Town South Africa. The schedule of the World Cup has also been released and the Indian Veterans will play its first match against South Africa on 6th of March, 2023.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     20th December 2022


MP Bansal, Dr Shakti visit Chamber House, brief CCI team on progress of Jammu AIIMS Naresh Bansal Member Rajya Sabha said that BJP Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to bolster healthcare sector in J&K to such an extent that need to refer patients outside the UT for specialized treatment get eliminated once and for all. Bansal, who is also the member of AIIMS Committee was interacting the CCI Jammu team during a visit to Chamber House. The Rajya Sabha member was accompanied by Dr Shakti Gupta Director AIIMS Jammu. At the outset of the meeting, Arun Gupta President of CCI Jammu appreciated their services in establishing AIIMS Jammu in record time with no compromise on quality and speed of the work. Citing that Jammu conventionally is confronting dearth in healthcare edifice, the CCI President said that there is dire need to raise small hospitals engaging local doctors to cater to the daily needs of people living in the vicinity. He said that healthcare services are on edge and there is need to provide proper emphasis on the issue and create healthcare facilities locally in all the areas. He suggested that small 10 bedded hospitals in localities would go a long way in catering to the needs of the people as far as basic healthcare requirement is concerned. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Shakti informed that 95 percent civil work done of the AIIMS Jammu has been accomplished and the rest will be completed in the coming six months making it feasible for the government to commission this national level healthcare facility in the forthcoming May month. He also informed that Tata Group has provided two medical vans to cater to the needs of local people living in the nearby rural areas. The CCI team members present on the occasion included Rajeev Gupta, Junior Vice President CCI , Rajesh Gupta Secretary and Rajesh Gupta Treasurer. Others who attended the meeting were Subash Dableria, Jagdish Langer, Vishal Gupta, Ravinder Sawhney , Hira Lal Abrol, Sanjay Aggarwal, Anil Gupta, KK Khosa, Bharat Bhushan Gupta and Charanjit Singh.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     19th December 2022


BJP leaders meet CCI office bearers, listen to problems of business community Traders’ body will not allow anyone to harass businessmen: Arun In order to have firsthand knowledge about the problems and issues faced by the traders in Jammu region, senior BJP leaders including BJP National Secretary Narinder Singh, former deputy chief minister Kavinder Gupta, J&K BJP Vice President Yudhvir Sethi, Seh-Prabhari Vinay Gupta and Corporators Lucky Puri and Narinder Singh visited Chamber House and held interaction with Chamber of Commerce and Industry office bearers. At the outset of the meeting, Arun Gupta President CCI said that the ace body of the traders will not allow anyone including the government to harass the business community. He raised the issue of lease deed of fruit market , Sabzi Mandi , Bahu Plaza and shiv market situated outside Jammu Railway Station. Another important issue which came for discussion was related to SRO issued with regard to Nazool land. The CCI President also said that the issue for survival and revival of sick industry is also very important as new industrial package has limited scope for rejuvenating the existing industry of Jammu. He urged the BJP leadership to take up the matter with HMO and union finance minister besides also appoint a local Advisor to the hon’ble Lt. Governor to discuss their issues and have liaison with Government. The Chamber also raised the issue of extraordinary hike in the electricity tariff of industrial units. The CCI President said that 30 per cent hike is too much and therefore he demanded that government should assure that the tariff will be frozen for the next three years with no proposal for any further hike. Besides, he also demanded that the electricity duty for industrial units should also bring down upto 5 percent. After listening to the issues of the business community of the Jammu region the visiting leaders of the BJP assured to take up all the matters with the concerned quarters and vowed for the positive outcome in all the issues taken up during the meeting. CCI office bearers including Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General , Sh Rajesh Gupta Secretary and Sh Rajesh Gupta Treasure were also present.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     16th December 2022


CCI signs landmark Healthcare MoU with ‘Medanta The Medicity’ In a landmark initiative the Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Medanta-The Medicity Medanta to ensure the best healthcare services to its members and their employees. The MoU was signed by the respective representatives from both the sides during a simple yet impressive function here today. It is pertinent to mention here that Medanta-The Medicity Hospital had submitted a proposal for empanelment to the CCI and the Office bearers of the trade body after due deliberation and discussion decided to give a go-ahead to the said proposal and consequently the MoU was signed by both the parties. Arun Gupta President CCI Jammu along with his team of office bearers informed that as per the Memorandum signed today, the Chamber Members as well as their employees shall now be entitled to avail the benefit of indoor and outdoor treatment and health checkup at Medanta-The Medicity Hospital in Gurugram Haryana which provides a comprehensive care to patients from all over India and abroad and is well known for best quality medical care and compassionate hospitalization facilities. He said that it is one of India's largest projects in multi-super specialty institutes providing medical services to patients with care, compassion and commitment as per the extraordinary vision of eminent cardiac surgeon, Dr. Naresh Trehan who is its Chairman & Managing Director. The Chamber President while expressing pleasure over the signing of this significant healthcare memorandum said that the Chamber Members and their employees shall be accorded Priority in admission; Marketing & Public Relations Department's assistance in Emergencies; Admissions, Appointments, Registration, Billing etc. and for this purpose a suitable officer will soon be earmarked by Medanta. Other facilities provided under the MoU include pickup and drop from point to point; (In case minimum 7 employees/members coming for health checks); Specially designed Health Check up Packages; Credit facility of 45 days only on Special request; Cash/Cashless Hospitalization on request; 15%Medanta Tariff Rates on IPD services; 15% Discount on Medanta Health Check-up Packages; 15%Medanta Prevailing Rates on OPD Investigations (Lab & Radiology); Personal assistance in admissions and treatment; Health Education talks in the Organization premises; OHC (Occupational Health Centre), workplace medical assistance models can also be developed as per the requirements; Medical Camps Under Community Outreach Programme and last but not the least Free Ambulance in Emergency Cases from Airport/within Gurgaon.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     14th December 2022


CCI lauds police for solving Gandhinagar dacoity case in a short time, says Jammuites have full confidence in the force The Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu has congratulated the Jammu and Kashmir Police for solving the much hyped dacoity case targeting the Aggarwal family of Gandhinagar in a very short span of time. In an urgent meeting held at Chamber House here today, Arun Gupta President CCI Jammu along with his office bearers Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI , Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General , Sh Rajesh Gupta Secretary and Rajesh Gupta Treasurer welcoming the development said that this has proved yet again that Jammu and Kashmir Police is second to none and its efforts especially towards zeroing in on the culprits in the instant case deserve full appreciation. He said that Police establishment has always been on the forefront and done played its role marvelously in a highly professional manner whether it is action on the crime front or the terrorism or onslaught against the drugs. Moreover, it has been playing a significant role under its Corporate Social Responsibility to serve the people of this sensitive region. The Chamber President said that the people of the City of Temples have full confidence and faith in the professionalism of the J&K Police and are sure that they can live peacefully with the men in khaki being ever alert to respond to any emergent situation when required. While offering salutations to police force, he expressed gratitude on behalf of the CCI and the people especially the business fraternity to the police establishment for solving the aforesaid case instantaneously. It is pertinent to mention here that soon after the dacoity incident the CCI delegation had called on the ADGP Jammu Sh. Mukesh Singh on 9th Dec besides also met SSP Jammu Sh. Chandan Kohli and demanded immediate arrest of culprits and booking them under law. The ADGP had assured the delegation that the men and machinery of the police force is already on the job and the culprits would be identified and booked under law very soon.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     29th November 2022


CCI delegation calls on J&K Bank MD & CEO, put-forth issues of business fraternity A delegation of Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) today called upon the J&K Bank MD and CEO Baldev Parkash at the bank’s corporate headquarters to discuss the issues faced by the business community and also the way forward. The Jammu Chamber delegation led by President JCCI Arun Gupta while Secretary General Gaurav Gupta, Rajeev Gupta Vice President, Rajesh Gupta Secretary and Rajesh Gupta Treasurer also presented. The CCI delegation, while expressing gratitude to the MD & CEO for his timely outreach to the bank’s different stakeholders especially business community besides extending the much needed financial support to the affected, raised some issues concerning Jammu business community and also suggested that customer service at operative levels needs to be improved and made more responsive. Arun Gupta urged the MD and CEO that there are certain issues which need to be addressed on priority in the general interest of business community. He suggested that the bank should immediately reduce the Lending Rate of Interest, waive off commitment charges, no charges to payee on cheque bouncing and leaving of processing charges. In the light of bank’s uninterrupted financial support besides its world-class banking services, Arun Gupta appealed to the people especially business community to strengthen their bonds further with the flagship financial institution of J&K UT. He said that the J&K Bank should grow as this is the only bank from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir which has its branches all over India. The MD & CEO Baldev Parkash assured the delegation members that their suggestions and the issues discussed would be considered by the bank on merit and resolved in a time bound manner.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     16th November 2022


CCI delegation calls on CS, highlights demands of traders, industrialists A delegation of Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) led by its President Arun Gupta along with his team today met Chief Secretary Arun Kumar Mehta at Civil Secretariat and discussed various issues of the traders and industrialists besides the common masses of Jammu. Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Ramesh Kumar was also present on the occasion. Several issues which came up for discussion Development of Patnitop, power amnesty for commercial users including industrialists of Jammu region, tourism development, expedition of Mubarak Mandi Heritage projects, etc. The CCI representatives also demanded enhancement in the limit of E-way bill from the existing Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh. The delegation demanded ownership rights for sons of the soil entrepreneurs who have been allotted the industrial land and our traders at Warehouse. The CCI also raised the issue pertaining to the circle rate besides demanded inclusion of separate clause of Land Value / Stamp Duty for Industrial Units on the lines of other states claiming that existing commercial notified rates are too high. Further the CCI demanded extension of VAT Amnesty Scheme as the traders couldn’t avail this earlier due to COVID-19 lockdown. CCI deputation demanded extension in validity period beyond June 30, 2022 upto at least one year for the industrial units which could not commence production within the stipulated time due to several genuine reasons. Another important issue which came for discussion was declaration of Gair Mumkin Khud by the Revenue Department despite the fact that no water body is passing through these lands. It was apprised that registration and construction activities on these lands was barred therefore there is need to redefine the “Kism” of this type of land and also a policy to allow the commercial and construction activities on such land chunks. As the period of lease deeds in respect of some allottees in Sabzi Mandi and Fruit Mandi Narwal have expired, therefore the Chamber appealed that their lease deeds should be renewed further after charging minimum possible premium. The issue of some commercial shops in Bahu Plaza area which have been allotted to some persons but the possession of the aforesaid shops has not been given to the concern allottees and lease deeds are also pending was also raised and it was demanded that possession should be given and lease deeds be executed henceforth. CCI also discussed the issue pertaining to the Jammu Central Cooperative bank besides the issue regarding the Transport Nagar and Div Com Sh. Ramesh Kumar has assured the CCI team that issue of Transport Nagar will be resolved within fifteen days. The CCI President also apprised the Chief Secretary and Divisional Commissioner Jammu about the notice served by the JDA declaring Bus Stand and Warehouse buildings as unsafe. He advised that there should be some policy for the aforesaid traders so that their businesses should not be affected as hundreds of people are working with these establishments. The CCI also demanded an exclusive power amnesty scheme for commercial users viz traders and industrialists apart from the one which has been offered to the domestic users. The meeting also batted for giving some relief to those single wine shop owners who lost their businesses and are jobless today . The Chief Secretary gave a patient hearing to the visiting delegation and assured for early consideration of the aforesaid issues. The delegation comprised of Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General and Sh Rajesh Gupta Secretary.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     11th November 2022


CCI resents over arbitrary hike in Waqf shops rent Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jammu, today expressed resentment against the unethical enhancement of rent of properties allotted to shopkeepers. In this context, an urgent meeting was held at Chamber House under the chairmanship of Arun Gupta, President CCI in which office bearers of Jammu Chamber were present. In a communique sent to Dr Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson J&K Waqf Board Jammu, Arun Gupta apprised her that the Auqaf Department had allotted shops in 1984-85 on a fixed rent basis in various locations of Jammu. From the last three decades, a fixed rent on these properties was charged with 10% increase after every 3 years. This practice of revising rent after every 3 years was suddenly done with after 4th Meeting of J&K Waqf Board held on 21-07-2022 in terms of the Rent Recommendation Committee 2015-16. The occupants are being served with notices where in the user charges have been enhanced at exorbitant rates contrary to the laid down provisions or enhancement in lease Rent Agreements. This decision has led to the steep hike of rent @ 500% to 1100% which is totally illogical and unethical, he added. CCI President further apprised the Chairperson Waqf Board that the small businesses are just struggling to recover from the successive setbacks occurred due to abrogation Article 370, Lockdown of business due to Covid 19 and discontinuance of Darbar move. Besides most of the businesses are under heavy debts of loans from banks and all are trying to come out of these slums, he added. “The decision taken by the waqf board is arbitrary and beyond the scope of stakeholders majority of whom small shopkeepers having their shops in congested bye lanes and markets. The payment of rent at such a hike is beyond their capacity and available sources of income,” he said. Arun Gupta appealed to the Chairperson of J&K Waqf Board to sympathetically reconsider the decision of increase of rent and take steps for review of same by taking into confidence all the parties involved. Office bearers of CCI present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta Treasurer.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     19th September 2022


CCI delegation calls on CS, highlights demands of traders, industrialists A delegation of Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) led by its General Secretary Gaurav Gupta met Chief Secretary A K Mehta and highlighted various demands of the traders and industrialists besides the common masses of Jammu. At the outset of the meeting, Gaurav raised the issue of unnecessary harassment of traders by way of anti-encroachment drive by JMC whereby the concerned authorities were penalizing those shopkeepers who have placed their goods well within the yellow line drawn by the same civic body. He said that the JMC is harassing the traders for no fault of theirs and requested the Chief Secretary to intervene and stop this injustice henceforth. On the issue of Smart City, the CCI General Secretary hailed PM Narendra Modi and J&K administration for giving preference to Jammu but on the other hand he asked the stakeholders not to venture in the walled city as the scope is marginal due to congestion and any change in the existing set-up will affect the established businesses which is undesirable. The CCI representatives also demanded enhancement in the limit of E-way bill from the existing Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh. The delegation demanded ownership rights for sons of the soil entrepreneurs who have been allotted the industrial land. It demanded a scheme allowing ownership rights of lease hold industrial land to local entrepreneurs after a period of over 25 years. The CCI also demanded inclusion of separate clause of Land Value / Stamp Duty for Industrial Units on the lines of other states claiming that existing commercial notified rates are too high. CCI deputation demanded extension in validity period beyond June 30, 2022 upto at least one year for the industrial units which could not commence production within the stipulated time due to several genuine reasons. The CCI delegation also asked for revisiting the Excise Policy to accommodate the old licensees who lost their source of income and were rendered jobless. It was also demanded that the policy be revised in such a manner to ensure Local Trade & Business Guarantee as per the sentiments of the people of the region. Further the CCI demanded extension of VAT Amnesty Scheme as the traders couldn’t avail this earlier due to COVID-19 lockdown. The delegation said that tourism was declared as an industry in 1995 but the hotels and lodges were deprived of the benefits and now the tourism department has asked for renewal of licenses on annual basis thereby causing discrimination. The delegation also highlighted the issue of proposed hike in power tariff, which has the potential to break the back bone of the industry and therefore it was appealed to stop any such move to help sustain industry in J&K. Another important issue which came for discussion was declaration of Gair Mumkin Khud by the Revenue Department despite the fact that no water body is passing through these lands. It was apprised that registration and construction activities on these lands was barred therefore there is need to redefine the “Kism” of this type of land and also a policy to allow the commercial and construction activities on such land chunks. As the period of lease deeds in respect of some allottees in Sabzi Mandi and Fruit Mandi Narwal have expired, therefore the Chamber appealed that their lease deeds should be renewed further after charging minimum possible premium. The issue of some commercial shops in Bahu Plaza area which have been allotted to some persons but the possession of the aforesaid shops has not been given to the concern allottees and lease deeds are also pending was also raised and it was demanded that possession should be given and lease deeds be executed henceforth. The CCI also demanded an exclusive power amnesty scheme for commercial users viz traders and industrialists apart from the one which has been offered to the domestic users. The CCI demanded amendment in Change in Land Use notification as people are ruing the change carried out in last December. The traders’ body also demanded for a daily Retreat Ceremony at Suchetgarh BOP to promote tourism. Another vital issue which came for discussion was the Excise Policy. The Chief Secretary gave a patient hearing to the visiting delegation and assured for early consideration of the aforesaid issues. The delegation comprised of Rajiv Gupta Junior Vice President, Rajesh Gupta Secretary, Jagdish Langer, Pawan Gupta and Anil Gupta.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     17th September 2022


Sh. Jugal Kishore Sharma Hon’ble MP visited Chamber House. Sh. Arun Gupta President Chamber of Commerce & Industry while welcoming the Chief Guest said that the Jammu Airport which is being developed as an International Airport for which the 967 kanal land has been transferred to Airport Authority of India out of which 150 Kanal which being to Animal/ Sheep Husbandry department need to be sorted out for making the further expansion the Jammu Airport. Arun Gupta further said that the Jammu City is being developed under Smart City Project which we whole heartedly welcome but at the same time we wish to point out that the funds are being used in a hafazerd manner without doing the ground work for the same. He further said that the projects should be separated from different department to have genuine benefit and the main chowks of the city should be developed in such a manner to create a better of market. Sh. Ravinder Sawhney will speaking on the occasion said that the drainage system in the city is very poor and needs to be developed. Sh. Jagdish Langer prominent Industrialist raised the point regarding CLU raised and it was said that the same is not to upto mark and circle rates for Private land for Industries are 3 to 4 lakhs per kanal but the govt, has fixed the rate 16 lakhs perkanal due to which industries are not being developed in private land and the govt of fixed the rate of Rs. 5.50 lakhs per kanal but the adequate order/ notification has not been issued so for. Sh. Rajan Gupta, President The JPDA Jammu raised the point regarding Reliance/multi brand chains of smart points whether in Wholesale or retail market is not required as the import of online medicines will create havoc in the market because It is directly concerns with the help of the people. Sh. Jugal Kishore Sharma Hon’ble MP gave patient hearing to the issues raised by the worthy members and said that he will take up the issues discussed in todays meeting with the concerned departments. The other Office Bearers present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     16th September 2022


CCI Welcomes announcement of holiday on Maharaja Hari Singh’s birthday, thanks LG for the decision. Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu has overwhelming welcomed the decision of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s announcement of the decision declaring a Public Holiday on the birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh on 23rd September. In a statement, Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu said that the Chamber welcomes the aforesaid decision as it was a long pending demand of the people of Jammu region. He said Maharaja Hari Singh was a great educationist, progressive thinker, social reformer and a towering man of ideas and ideals. He said that this will be a humble tribute to the last Dogra ruler of Jammu and Kashmir Maharaja Hari Singh who undoubtedly was a great reformer and visionary which is evident from the reforms brought by him during his tenure as the king of erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir. The Chamber President said that it is a decision that needs to be celebrated by the people across cross sections of the society as their aspirations, sentiments and feelings linked with the great Maharaja have been duly addressed by the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Administration led by LG Manoj Sinha addressed. He expressed profound thanks and gratitude to the Lt Governor for the decision duly respecting the sentiments of Dogras. Arun Gupta said that the Chamber also appreciates the relentless efforts made by the Yuva Rajput Sabha for leading unabated agitation in this regard that has ultimately reached its logical conclusion.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     9th September 2022


CCI welcomes amnesty to domestic power consumers, appeals for its extension to Traders and Industrialist While welcoming the amnesty scheme for domestic power consumers/connections announced by the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Administrative Council. Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI), Jammu has appealed to the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to announce a similar amnesty for the Traders / Industrialist sector as these sector continues to suffer after being adversely affected during the peak Covid-19 pandemic period and is still struggling for their survival. This was expressed during an urgent meeting of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry held under the chairmanship of Arun Gupta, President CCI at Chamber House here today. Arun Gupta said “We wholeheartedly welcome the move of UT Govt waiving off interest and surcharge on domestic power connections by introducing amnesty scheme. However, we seek roll out of another amnesty scheme for the Traders and Industries power consumers so that the unit holders also get some relief on this front.” Arun Gupta stated that the Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industries has already raised this significant issue with the UT Administration a number of times demanding power tariff amnesty scheme for the traders and industrial sector and are still waiting for rolling out of the scheme with great hope as it would go a long way in holding the hands of this vital sectors which is experiencing a very tough and testing time at present. The CCI President said that the Traders and Industrialist are trying to come out of Covid trauma after having suffered for more than two years on account of huge economic losses and theirs’ is a genuine and fit case for granting of power amnesty scheme . He reiterated the CCI appeal to the LG led UT government to announce amnesty scheme for the Traders and Industrialist at the earliest. At the same time Chamber requests the defaulting consumers to avail the benefits of this amnesty scheme and clear their outstanding dues within the prescribed period of 12 months as failure to do so will invite penalty and legal action under electricity act 2010.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     5th September 2022


CCI meets Comm & Addl CS I&C, highlights Industrialists , traders issues & demands
The Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) on Monday highlighted the issues and demands of Industrialist and traders before Commissioner & Additional Chief Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Vivek Bharadwaj. The CCI delegation headed by its President Arun Gupta met Bharadwaj and apprised him about the burning issues of the business fraternity and also submitted a memorandum for early consideration. Several issues of industry and trade in Jammu region came for discussion under a congenial atmosphere wherein the Commissioner & Additional Chief Secretary, Industries & Commerce assured full support. The issues which came up for discussion included demand of inclusion of separate clause of land value / stamp duty rates with respect to land which is to be registered for Industrial Units on the lines of other states as the commercial notified rates are too high, extension in validity period beyond June 30, 2022 as some industrial units could not start production well within the stipulated time period due to certain unavoidable hindrances like delay in loan sanction, non issuance of NOC from PCB, etc, therefore the units which have taken effective steps should be granted extension in validity of provisional registration for at least one year, extension of Central Package-2021 to existing industries under substantial expansion, grant of benefits of industry to hotels and lodges because tourism was declared an industry in the year 1995 but unfortunately the benefits of industries were not given to the hapless hotel industry till date, removal of negative list as this will enable the local industry to compete with outsiders, provide ownership rights to sons of the soil by formulating a scheme allowing ownership rights of lease hold industrial land to local entrepreneurs after a period of 25 years of the first/original allotment of land that too with nominal conversion fee from lease hold to free hold, restore power amnesty scheme as the one offered during the lockdown period could not be availed by the industries due to complete or partial shutdown and trader fraternity facing financial crunch, revisit the decision of hike in power tariff as JPDCL’s proposal for 70 percent hike will affect the industry badly. The other Office bearers of CCI present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary. Giving a patient hearing to the CCI delegation, Bharadwaj assured early redressal of the above said issues.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     24 August 2022


CCI honours SPIC MACAY Founder Dr Kiran Seth
Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu honoured Padamshri Dr Kiran Seth, founder SPIC MACAY during a function held at Chamber House here today. The traditional ritual of honouring Dr Kiran Seth was conducted by the CCI President, Arun Gupta. It is pertinent to mention here that SPIC MACAY is a Society for the promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture among the Youth which was founded by Dr. Kiran Seth in the year 1977. In his address on the occasion the Chamber President, Arun Gupta while asserting that it was a privilege and honour for the Chamber to host the great personality in the City of Temples, highlighted the achievements of Dr Kiran Seth in detail. He said Dr Kiran Seth (born 1949) is an Indian academician, ex-Professor and ex-Professor Emeritus at the department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, since 1976, and is widely known as the founder of SPIC MACAY (1977), a non-profit organization which promotes Indian classical music, Indian classical dance, and other aspects of Indian culture, amongst youth across the world. CCI President informed that Dr Kiran Seth started his career working as a Member of the Technical Staff (MTS) at Bell Laboratories, New Jersey in 1974, a job he gave up to return to India in 1976, to teach and carry out research at IIT Delhi, where he served till his retirement in 2021. It was at IIT Delhi that he founded SPIC MACAY in 1977, a society that has done phenomenal amount of work in the area of promoting Indian heritage amongst school and college students in India and different parts of the world, he added. SPIC MACAY is the biggest, non-profit, voluntary, cultural, youth movement in independent India. It is pertinent to mention here that the stature of Dr Kiran Seth can be well judged from the fact that he has received Padma Shri from the Govt, Distinguished Alumnus Award by the IIT Kharagpur, NDTV Indian of the Year under Arts and Culture category, Sahitya Kala Parishad Award, Sanskriti Award, Harballabh Sangeet Sammelan Award, Keshav Kothari Smriti Award, Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award, Chand Khan Award and Modernites Excellence award by Modern School Delhi besides a long list of other awards. Dr Kiran Seth in his brief speech on the occasion impressed upon the youth to work relentlessly and with full devotion for the nation by fully using their potential. He also thanked the CCI members for hosting a function to felicitate and honour him.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     16 August 2022


CCI celebrates 76th Independence Day with patriotic fervor
Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI), Jammu today celebrated the 76th Independence Day with great fervour here today. An impressive programme was organized at the Chamber House which commenced with the hoisting of National Flag by Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce and Industries Jammu in presence of other office bearers and senior members of the CCI. On the occasion, Arun Gupta unfurled the National Flag after which the whole premises reverberated with the singing of National Anthem amid salutations to the National Tricolour and the martyrs who laid down their lives while protecting the territorial integrity of the nation on the borders and the hinterland. In his address, Arun Gupta threw light on the martyrdom of freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the cause of the nation and its people as a result of which the people of the World’s largest Democracy are enjoying full freedom and self esteem having earned honour and dignity at the global level. Gupta said that Independence Day is the most auspicious day for the whole nation and its people and being the most vibrant democracy of the world, it deserves to be celebrated like a festival with full enthusiasm and gaiety amid participation of people from diverse cultures as ‘Unity in Diversity’ is the hallmark of the Indian democracy. The Chamber President assured that CCI members will leave no stone unturned in taking J&K on the glorious path of development and prosperity.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     13 August 2022


Div Com, IG flag off ‘Tiranga Rally’ organized by Jammu Chamber
Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industries carried out a highly impressive ‘Tiranga Rally’ as a part of ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign to mark the celebration of 75 years of Independence (Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav). The ‘Tiranga Rally’ was flagged off by the Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar along with IGP Mukesh Singh and Chamber President Arun Gupta from Karan Market. The rally after passing through various markets including Hari Market, Raghunath Bazar, City Chowk, Kanak Mandi, Rajinder Bazar and Residency Road finally culminated at Shri Raghunath ji Temple. Businessmen from various markets including members of various Market and Bazaar associations joined the rally in large numbers from the commencing point followed by joining of others on way. The rally turned the environs of the City of Temples into festivity amid high patriotic fervour. The roads and markets traversed by the trading class echoed with patriotic slogans raised by the participants carrying national flags in their hands with great reverence and pride. The slogans raised during the rally included ‘Vande Matram’; ‘Naman Matra Bhoomi’; ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’, etc. The CCI President, Arun Gupta, while addressing the participants of the rally, impressed upon the business fraternity in particular and public in general to make the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign a big success across the City of Temples. He said that the National Flag (Tiranga) is identity of the nation and pride and honour for all the citizens of the nation. He asserted that it reflects the philosophy of the world’s largest democracy through its colours and design. He said that it reminds us about the precious sacrifices made by the freedom fighters to achieve freedom for the nation. It also reminds us to salute the martyrs of the nation who as part of the belt forces embraced martyrdom to keep the nation secure along borders and within and keeping the national flag fluttering high under all circumstances, he added. He offered his salutations to the freedom fighters and the martyrs. Arun Gupta appealed to the business fraternity to make the 76th Independence Day celebrations a unique event as the Nation is celebrating the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     12th August 2022


JPDA team calls on CCI President, discusses burning issues of pharmaceutical traders
The office bearers of the newly constituted body of Jammu Pharmaceutical Dealers Association (JPDA) led by its President Rajan Gupta visited the Chamber House here today. The JPDA team discussed with the Office bearers of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of the burning issues and problems being faced by the traders dealing in pharmaceuticals across the region. At the outset of the programme, Jammu Chamber gave a rousing reception to JPDA team comprising Rajan Gupta, President; Manohar Verma, Senior Vice President; Chander Shekhar Gupta Vice President; Brijesh Gupta General Secretary; Anil Gupta Secretary; Rakesh Gupta Joint Secretaries and Vicky Gupta Treasurer. While deliberating on various issues pertaining to this class of traders’ fraternity, JPDA President Rajan Gupta briefed the CCI President Arun Gupta about multiple problems being faced by them that retard the progress of their trading activity with consumers being the ultimate sufferers. Rajan Gupta sought special attention of the CCI on the online selling of medicine by the giant capitalist Reliance across Jammu city at substantially low prices that has a direct impact upon the very survival of the local pharmaceutical traders. He said that the aforesaid development has made it impossible for all the local traders in this sector to compete with Reliance in providing medicines at such low price to the customers. He lamented that if the same trend continues for long then all the local business enterprises in Pharmaceutical sector in Jammu will be closed thus affecting the very livelihood of the owners as well as their employees. He sought the intervention, help and support of the CCI to take up their issues with the Administration on priority basis and get their concerns addressed. After giving a keen and patient hearing to the JPDA team members, the CCI President Arun Gupta said that Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry will fight for the genuine cause of Jammu’s pharmaceutical traders. He said that the CCI will take up the matter with all the concerned authorities in J&K Administration and get their issues resolved at the earliest. Arun Gupta complemented the newly elected body wishing all success to the team during its tenure. He exuded confidence in the new team led by Rajan Gupta hoping that it will work relentlessly for the cause of the dealers of Jammu Pharmaceutical Distributors by getting their simple as well as complex issues addressed. He expressed the hope that the team will fully come up to the expectation of the pharmaceutical stakeholders, especially the traders. Meanwhile, Arun Gupta informed that Jammu Chamber is organizing Tiranga Rally as a part of Har Ghar Tiranga campaign to mark the celebration of 75 years of Independence. He informed that the Tiranga rally will start from Karan Market passing through Hari Market, Raghunath Bazar, City Chowk, Kanak Mandi, Rajinder Bazar and Residency Road and finally will culminate at Raghunath ji Temple. He appealed to the traders as well as members of various markets and Bazaar association of Jammu to participate in the Tiranga Rally and make it a grand success. Among others who were present include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     9th August 2022


Celebrate ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign with great enthusiasm: CCI
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu President Arun Gupta on Tuesday made a fervent appeal to the people in Jammu region to celebrate the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign with nationalistic fervour and ensure that no household remains without Tricolour atop its rooftop. He was speaking during a special event organized by the CCI Jammu at the Chamber House here. Divisional Commissioner Jammu was the Chief Guest on the occasion while various representatives of market associations of Jammu region also participated in the function held to popularize the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign envisaged by none other than PM of India Narendra Modi. Earlier, the programme commenced with the presentation of welcome address by Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General CCI. Arun Gupta said, it is solemn duty of every citizen to celebrate the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign with fervour by hoisting the national flag atop all buildings, including houses, commercial complexes, shops, and offices from August 13 to 15. He said that such occasions hold much significance to infuse a sense of patriotism among the next generation and introduce the progeny with the sacrifices which the countrymen made during the fight for freedom and uniting the country to become a great nation which India is today. During the occasion the issues pertaining to the business fraternity were also discussed . Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar, in his address, said, “ It is the time to give a solemn message to the entire world that India is united and its people live in complete harmony through this campaign conceived and promoted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi”. He said that this time Independence Day should not remain a mere government programme but every citizen should actively participate in the national festival. “Every citizen was expected to hoist the flag with family members and there should not be any decoration to the flag as all should ensure the flag code was not violated”, he said adding that such events are quite significant in telling the youths about the glorious past of the country and the valour with which people have achieved the freedom from the tyrannical invaders. He also appreciated CCI for playing a significant role in the society to spread awareness about various social causes. He said that the government needs such institutions to percolate better services among the masses and ensure good governance. Vote of thank was presented Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI. Among others who were present Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI. (Gaurav Gupta) Secretary General

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     14th July 2022


Sh. Arun Gupta, President CCI accompanied by Office Bearers namely Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI today participated in the interactive session organized by J&K State Taxes Department where the representatives of different Trade Organizations were also present. While interacting with the Commissioner State Taxes, Arun Gupta demanded that the limit of the e-way bills should be enhanced from Rs. 50000 to Rs. 1 lakh. While speaking on the occasion, Sh. Arun Gupta said that when GST was introduced the then Finance Minister Sh. Arun Jaietly on the floor of the house said that GST is a good and simple tax, but now-a-days it has been complicated by imposing penalties for minor technical mistakes. We request that this should not happen, he added. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that the goods which are shifted from godowns /cold storage to shops should be treated as stock transfer. Sh. Arun Gupta also apprised the Commissioner State Taxes that as per Industrial Policy the Industrial units in UT of J&K are getting GST reimbursement, but sometimes the refund process is delayed due to one reason or the other. We request that GST reimbursement should be in a time bound manner. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that some members could not claim the reimbursement of GST from 2017 onwards due to some un-avoidable circumstances. Chamber requests that they should be given one last chance to apply for reimbursement claims. Sh. Arun Gupta further said the goods which are imported from other states and if shifting of stock is mentioned on the bill from one place to other place, there should be no need to generate a fresh e-way bill as it is a technical point and needs to be understood. Sh. Gupta also said that the government has earlier announced VAT Amnesty scheme giving an opportunity to the defaulter of VAT to deposit their VAT dues without interest and penalties during Covid-19. But due to continued lockdown and financial crunch some traders could not avail the benefit of the scheme as such we request that these traders be provided one more opportunity to deposit their VAT dues without interest and penalties. Some businessmen were doing their business by carrying the goods and delivering the same door to door since long during VAT regime also but after the introduction of GST these people are not allowed to carry on their business to earn their livelihood. We request that these businessmen be allowed to carry on their business. Similarly there are certain businessmen(Scrap dealers) who collect the scrap from door to door. They are paying GST at the time of selling their goods. These scrap dealers are unnecessarily harassed by the department who collect the scrap from door to door. If any seller does not file his return GST-1, the buyer also does not get input of that bill. This is a punishment to the honest tax payer who buys from someone who does not file his return. We request that this should not happen as he has a proper bill in this regard and a change in the law is required. Those who were present in the interactive session from the department side include Principal Commissioner CGST Mr. Mahesh Rastogi,IRS, Commissioner J&K State Taxes Dr. Rashmi Singh, IAS, Additional Commissioner(Adm) Madam Neetu Gupta, Dy. Commissioner(Tax Planning) Madam Ankita Kar, Dy. Commissioner Enforcement Madam Ritu Gupta, Dy. Commissioner Lakhanpur Mr. Ranjit Singh, Dy Commissioner Appeals, Madam Sehnaz Choudhary, Dy. Commissioner Recovery Madam Namrata Dogra and other senior Officers of the State Taxes Department were also present (Gaurav Gupta) Secretary General

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     13th July 2022


Follow path shown by Saints, Spiritual leaders for a prosperous, peaceful nation: CCI President Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI), Jammu, Arun Gupta appealed to the people to follow the path shown by great Indian saints to make the nation prosperous and peaceful. He made this appeal while inaugurating a Bhandara organized by Mahamandleshwar Mahant Rameshwar Dass for the Saints and Sadhus visiting Jammu for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. Dr Satya Narayan and Mahant Rajesh Bittu were also present. Arun Gupta highlighting the role of saints during times immemorial, he said that the saints have played a significant role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of India through their significant teachings and actions (Karma). Saluting the great Indian saints, Arun said spiritual leaders including the saints can play an important role in making India prosper and modern. He lauded those saints who are already contributing a lot in this direction. “Our saints and seers are very noble and have always been compassionate towards society and the poor,” he added. Chamber President said that the world has been witnessing straying away of people from the path of virtuousness resulting in destruction due to wars, terrorism, etc. He lamented that despite all religions teaching to refrain from hatred or enmity there are frequent instances of clashes among people. He appealed to the people to maintain communal harmony and brotherhood at all costs. Be vigilant against anti social elements who are trying to create wedge between various communities in the society, he cautioned them. Mahamandleshwar Mahant Rameshwar Dass said that the holy Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is a symbol of communal harmony and brotherhood among different communities and the J&K Government should ensure a hassle free, safe and secure ancient pilgrimage that is being conducted this year after a gap of two years. Mahant Rajesh Bittu said “We are committed to provide maximum facilities to the saints and Sadhus come from across the country for Amarnath pilgrimage.” He appealed to the come forward and extend all possible support in making this annual eventy a great success. Among others who were present include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI. (Gauav Gupta) Secretary General

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     9th July 2022


CCI expresses grief over loss of lives in Amarnath cloudburst tragedy Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI), Jammu has expressed grief over the loss of lives in the Amarnath cloudburst tragedy on Friday evening. In this context, a meeting was held at Chamber House under the chairmanship of Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu in which office bearers Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President ,Sh. Rajiv Gupta, Jr. Vice President ,Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary-General , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary ,Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer were present. CCI President expressed deep heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the departed souls and fast recovery of the people injured. He urged LG administration to announce ex-gratia relief for the victim families and free-of-cost treatment for those injured in the incident. Arun Gupta appealed to the general public to come forward and extend all possible help to the pilgrims of Amarnath Yatra which will undoubtedly help in further strengthening the bonds of brotherhood, compassion and righteousness which is the dire need of the hour especially in the Valley. He said that after concluding their sojourn in J&K they will carry back memories as our ambassadors to their respective states thus not only promoting communal harmony and brotherhood but also further strengthening the secular fabric of the nation.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     28th June 2022


CCI, FOI delegation call on LG Sinha, highlight various issues related to traders A joint delegation of Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Jammu, and Federation of Industries today called on Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and submitted a charter of demands highlighting the issues and demands of the industrialists and traders of the region. During the meeting, Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu appreciated the efforts of Lt Governor for giving his valuable time, bringing J&K on industrial map of the country and making all efforts to bring investment from outside the state for the betterment of the youth of the Union Territory. Rajesh Jain, President FOI Jammu apprised the Lt Governor that the existing industry is feeling neglect as the same is providing employment to the local youth with very small investment while upcoming industry shall fetch more incentives and provide less employment. Arun Gupta said the “JPDCL has proposed hike in power tariff to the tune of approximately 70% and fixed charges to the tune of 50%. Such big hike has never been seen in the country by the any utility provider. The proposed power hike shall not only hit the existing industry but also send bad signal to the upcoming investors for which government is putting all its efforts,”. Arun Gupta also raised the issue of extension of validity of Provisional registration of industrial units. “The Apex Project Clearance Committee in its meeting held on 8/12/2021 granted extension in the validity of provisional registration upto June 30, 2022 to the units which had not commenced production within the stipulated time. Such industrial units are in the process of commencement of production but due to certain unavoidable circumstances including non-sanctioning of loan, delay in supply of machinery by the supplier , non issuance of certificate from PCB, non-sanctioning of power, etc they are not in a position to commence their production before June 30, 2022,”. Arun Gupta and Rajesh Jain urged the Lt Governor to take effective steps by extending the validity of provisional registration of the aforesaid industrial units by at least one year. They also raised various issues viz marketing support for local Micro/Small units / manufacturers ; ownership rights of lease hold industrial land to entrepreneurs ; delay in filing of refund claim ; circle rates for industry; removal of negative list; extension of Central Package 2021 to existing industries under substantial expansion; Lease Deed of Sabzi Mandi/Fruit Mandi/Bahu Plaza; simplification of registration/renewal of hotels/lodges and guest houses; grant of benefits of industry to hotels/lodges; simplification of renewal system of hotels/lodges; VAT Amnesty Scheme; Power Amnesty Scheme; Ownership rights for Warehouse; Development of Transport Nagar, etc. The Lt Governor gave a patient hearing to the visiting delegation of Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Jammu and assured that he will pass necessary directions to the concerned Principal Secretary for early consideration of the demands. He said that industrial sector is the back bone of the Union Territory and necessary steps will be taken for the welfare of traders’ community. The delegation comprised of Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary ,Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer, Sh. Lalit Mahajan, Sh. Vijay Aggarwal, Sh. JAtinder Aul, Sh. S.B.Abrol, Sh. Varinder Jain, Sh. Tarun Singla and Sh. Viraj Malhotra

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     13th June 2022


CCI delegation meets Commissioner State Taxes, discusses issues A delegation of Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCI), Jammu, led by its President Sh. Arun Gupta met Commissioner State Taxes, Dr. Rashmi Singh, IAS, in her office chamber and held threadbare discussions on the issues related to trading fraternity. The delegation comprised of Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI. While interacting with the Commissioner State Taxes, Arun Gupta demanded that the limit of the e-way bills should be enhanced from Rs. 50000 to Rs. 1 lakh. While speaking on the occasion, Sh. Arun Gupta said that when GST was introduced the then Finance Minister Sh. Arun Jaietly on the floor of the house said that GST is a good and simple tax, but now-a-days it has been complicated by only few officers by imposing penalties for minor technical mistakes. We request that this should not happen, he added. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that the goods which are shifted from godowns /cold storage to shops should be treated as stock transfer. If there is mention in the bill “ for shifting of stock” from one place to another place, there is no need to generate a fresh e-way bill as it is a technical point and needs to be understood. Sh. Arun Gupta also apprised the Commissioner State Taxes that as per Industrial Policy the Industrial units in UT of J&K are getting GST reimbursement, but sometimes the refund process is delayed due to one reason or the other. We request that GST reimbursement should be in a time bound manner. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that some members could not claim the reimbursement of GST from 2017 onwards due to some un-avoidable circumstances. Chamber requests that they should be given one last chance to apply for reimbursement claims. In view of ongoing Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Arun Gupta also requested the Commissioner State Taxes to hold awareness programme cum workshop on GST at Chamber House for the welfare of trader fraternity. The Commissioner gave a patient hearing to the visiting delegation and assured that necessary steps would be taken by the Department for the welfare of trading fraternity and also agreed upon to hold awareness programme cum workshop on GST at Chamber House on her next visit to Jammu.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     13th June 2022


CCI delegation meets Commissioner State Taxes, discusses issues A delegation of Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCI), Jammu, led by its President Sh. Arun Gupta met Commissioner State Taxes, Dr. Rashmi Singh, IAS, in his office chamber and held threadbare discussions on the issues related to trading fraternity. The delegation comprised of Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI. While interacting with the Commissioner State Taxes, Arun Gupta demanded that the limit of the e-way bills should be enhanced from Rs. 50000 to Rs. 1 lakh. While speaking on the occasion, Sh. Arun Gupta said that when GST was introduced the then Finance Minister Sh. Arun Jaietly on the floor of the house said that GST is a good and simple tax, but now-a-days it has been complicated by only few officers by imposing penalties for minor technical mistakes. We request that this should not happen, he added. Sh. Arun Gupta further said that the goods which are shifted from godowns /cold storage to shops should be treated as stock transfer. If there is mention in the bill “ for shifting of stock” from one place to another place, there is no need to generate a fresh e-way bill as it is a technical point and needs to be understood. Sh. Arun Gupta also apprised the Commissioner State Taxes that as per Industrial Policy the Industrial units in UT of J&K are getting GST reimbursement, but sometimes the refund process is delayed due to one reason or the other. We request that GST reimbursement should be in a time bound manner. Sh. Arun Gupta also said that some members could not claim the reimbursement of GST from 2017 onwards due to some un-avoidable circumstances. Chamber requests that they should be given one last chance to apply for reimbursement claims. In view of ongoing Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Arun Gupta also requested the Commissioner State Taxes to hold awareness programme cum workshop on GST at Chamber House for the welfare of trader fraternity. The Commissioner gave a patient hearing to the visiting delegation and assured that necessary steps would be taken by the Department for the welfare of trading fraternity and also agreed upon to hold awareness programme cum workshop on GST at Chamber House on her next visit to Jammu.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     11th June 2022


CCI delegation calls on Principal Secretary HUDD; discusses issues pertaining to Jammu traders A delegation of Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) led by its President Arun Gupta today met Sh. Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development and discussed issue pertaining to traders of Jammu city. The delegation comprised of Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President and Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary. While Vice Chairman JDA Sh. Pankaj Magotra and Commissioner JMC Sh. Rahul Yadav were also present during the meeting. While speaking on the occasion, Sh. Arun Gupta raised the long pending demand of Transport Nagar area regarding black topping and construction of drains, etc. over there. The Principal Secretary assured the Chamber team that the tenders for this will be floated in this month and the issue will be resolved as early as possible. While discussing the matter regarding execution of lease deeds in respect of shops in Shiv Market Railway Station Jammu, the Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development directed the VC JDA to come up with a clear picture before 18th of this month so that this issue can be resolved once for all. Thereafter the matter relating to Lease deeds / rent issue of Bahu Plaza was also discussed and a similar assurance was given by the Principal Secretary and JDA authorities were directed to come up with a clear road map so that this issue is also settled once for all. While discussing the issue of allottees of the Bus Stand Shopping complex, Sh. Arun Gupta said that JDA should not ask to the shopkeepers of Bus Stand to pay rent because as and when the shops were allotted to them no basic amenities like electricity and drainage system were available and are not still existing. Arun Gupta also raised the issue of the Change in land Use (CLU) notification which was issued in December, and apprised the Principal secretary about the problem being faced by the common person concerning the notification; after a threadbare discussion, the Principal secretary assured the delegation that within next few days, the department will issue the new notification with an amendment to resolve the same. While speaking on the occasion, Sh. Arun Gupta said that the smart parking is not acceptable to the traders and the public of Jammu. The rent being charged in some areas indicates that the parties who have clearly been successful in the tender process have not come up with a clear policy. Moreover the charges of smart parking are very high and we request that no parking slots should be given to any agency. Chamber clearly indicated that they are not in favour of encroachment but the way Corporation is working is totally unacceptable. The ongoing drive by the corporation is disturbing the hundreds of the traders/people without gaining anything. We request that a proper mechanism be adopted to punish only those who are violating the law without disturbing the traders and the people of Jammu city,” Gupta added.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     10th June 2022


CCI appeals people to maintain brotherhood, communal harmony and Tranquility The Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI), Jammu, raised serious concern over the prevailing situation in the Bhadarwah town. Addressing media persons here today, Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu, said that the situation in Bhadarwah is grave. "A well-planned conspiracy was hatched by some unscrupulous elements to divide the people and make them fight (against) each other to destroy century old communal harmony and brotherhood of people of the town,” he said. Arun Gupta mentioned that the recent selective innocent killings and incident of vandalizing Shri Vasuki Nag Ji Temple at Kailash Kund in Bhaderwah is not the only one as there are certain elements who want to vitiate the peaceful environment by repeatedly doing such acts which are totally unacceptable. Arun Gupta appealed to both the communities of Bhadarwah town to play their crucial role in combating growing tendencies of intolerance and hate, saying societal renaissance holds key to bind communities and regions together, especially in a diverse state like Jammu and Kashmir. He asked them to remain vigilant from the anti-national elements who are trying to create wedge between the communities for their vested interests. He asked people of Bhadarwah town to come forward and expose such elements who are enemy of peace, prosperity and tranquility. Arun Gupta appealed to the LG’s administration to act stringently against the culprits as such repeated incident has the potential to escalate communal tension. Among others who were present in the press conference include Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General, Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     9th June 2022


CCI asks MD J&K Bank to reintroduce a one-time settlement scheme for NPAs The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu on Thursday met the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of J&K Bank Ltd and appealed to reintroduce one-time settlement scheme for NPAs through which J&K Bank provided a golden chance to aforesaid account holders having outstanding between Rs. 15 lakh and 500 lakh as on September 30, 2021. In this regard, the CCI delegation led by its President Arun Gupta and comprising Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General, Rajesh Gupta, Secretary and Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer called on the Managing Director and CEO J&K Bank Ltd and submitted a charter of demands highlighting the issues and demands of the industrialists and traders of the region. The demands raised by the CCI Jammu included extension of Golden Opportunity provided by J&K Bank for One Time Settlement Scheme for NPAs in which J&K Bank has given a chance to the NPA account holders whose outstanding is Rs. 15 lakh to 500 lakh as on 30 September 2021, because very few people have availed the opportunity due to COVID-19 pandemic, those parties which have been issued with notices under SARFAESI Act should also be given one last opportunity instead of auction of their mortgaged property on humanitarian grounds, there are few industrialists who also wanted to settle their accounts as per “Golden Opportunity” provided by the Bank earlier for one time settlement as they have suffered huge losses during Covid-19 period and were unable to continue with the present limit and therefore they wanted the same OTS be provided for settlement of their accounts upto financial year 2021-2022, the rate of interest on advances by J&K Bank is higher than any national/ private banks therefore it is requested to reduce the interest rates so that more and more traders/industrialists can come under the ambit of J&K Bank and there is need to grow the network of branches of the bank so that traders and industrialists can avail benefits from the J&K Bank as the present status of branches is inadequate. He also requested the CEO, to consider the demand about the processing fee / Renewal charges that it should be at par with the other banks. Besides, Arun Gupta requested the MD to include the stakeholders from apex body of trade and industrialist in the Board of Directors list. Upon this, the CEO J&K Bank gave a very positive response and assured that all the demands will be put forward for early consideration and it is likely that many among the same will be acceded sooner than later.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     23rd May 2022


CCI Urges ADRM NR to woo tourists through advertisements, information counters The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu on Monday appealed to Northern Railways to extend help in promoting tourism in Jammu as trains and railway stations have much potential to showcase the charming beauty of the region and the places of tourist interests. The issue was taken up during a meeting of CCI office bearers with ADRM Northern Railways Baldev Raj and former MLCs Romesh Arora and Charanjeet Singh Khalsa, when the latter visited the Chamber House Jammu to hold threadbare discussion on business and tourism prospects of the region. The visiting guests were received by CCI office bearers headed by Chamber President Arun Gupta, who laid stress on promotion of tourism in Jammu by making use of edifice available with the Northern Railways. He urged the ADRM to extend help to people of Jammu by promoting tourism destinations of the region through hoardings, advertisements in trains and railway stations besides opening tourist information centres at various railway stations in collaboration with the tourism department. Arun Gupta said that Railways has much potential to boost the tourism scope in Jammu region as thousands of travelers use this mode of travelling and if things will be managed systematically, trains and Railway stations in the region and even outside the UT can bring tourism boom in Jammu region which is the need of the time. He said that business in Jammu was affected after the trains started chugging directly for Katra as was the case of Pathankot decades ago. “This has marred the businessmen fraternity of Jammu and to cover up the losses, it is necessary that tourism should be given a boost and for this, Railways can play a bigger role”, he said and added that people of Jammu have high hopes that Railways will help them to get more business through tourism promotion by adopting a prolific policy in this regard. During meeting Sh. Romesh Arora former MLC urged the ADRM Railways to speed up the project of revival of Old Railway Station at Bikram Chowk in Jammu. He said that businessmen have lots of hopes over this project as the same has the potential to woo tourists coming from outside the UT. He however insisted on taking care of traders working in the vicinity as rehabilitation of these businessmen is vital because development which causes business loss is no development at all. Arun gupta said that CCI has pinned high hopes from the Railways as it is anticipated that this department will bail out the ailing trade in the region through its farsighted steps. After giving a patient hearing, ADRM NR assured that he will take up the matter with higher authorities and will soon come up with a proposal to accommodate all the demands raised in the meeting. Among those who were present in the meeting include Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr.Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI, Sh. Jagdish Langer, Sh. Ashok Gupta and others.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     18th May 2022


CCI condemns Kashmir minority killings, seeks adequate security The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu on Wednesday condemned unabated killings of minorities in Kashmir Valley and demanded adequate security to ensure that no more life falls prey to terrorism in the Union Territory. In this context, an emergent meeting of Jammu Chamber was held here under the chairmanship of Arun Gupta, President CCI Jammu. Arun Gupta said that the situation in Kashmir has turned grim with terrorists carrying out soft killings at their will with miniscule minorities becoming the first target of these violence mongers. He said that grenade attack on a wine shop in Baramulla killing a Hindu youth from Rajouri and three others from Jammu province is testimony to the fact that minority community is not safe in the Valley as terrorists are targeting the vulnerable community because recently a Kashmiri Pandit employee Rahul Bhat was also targeted in broad day light. Jammu Chamber demanded that the government should brace-up the security grid and also make beat policing robust to ensure that no civilian, especially the minority community member, remains at risk. He said that the situation right now is grim as every now and then terrorists are carrying out terror strikes killing the soft targets with police and other security forces proving out to be defunct in stopping this vicious cycle of violence and killings. Gupta said that the killing spree in the Valley will have serious repercussions in the entire UT of J&K which is still struggling to come out of recession after the colossal losses that it incurred due to pandemic COVID-19. He said that the government should come up with a foolproof security strategy to ensure the safety of all, especially the minority Hindu community in the Valley. Expressing serious concern, CCI President said that the government cannot allow such targeted killings to go on unabated, therefore the need of the time is to immediately put an end to this dangerous trend and rejuvenate the lost faith of the people in the security edifice to restore peace once again. Among those who were present include Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr.Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI and Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     13th May 2022


CCI urges Div Com to give fillip to Jammu tourism Asks to expedite Smart City Projects The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), Jammu on Friday urged Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar to take measures for enhancing the tourist footfall in the Jammu region as the same was pivotal to give impetus to the local economy and generate employment avenues. The CCI team led by its President Arun Gupta called on the Div Com and discussed various issues of vital nature with regard to trade and economy of Jammu region. In a cordial meeting with Ramesh Kumar, the CCI President took up the important issue of reviving business of Jammu region especially after the impact it had due to trains chugging directly towards Katra and as per reports sooner than later to Valley. He said that like the Pathankot city of Punjab, the government should not allow the collapse of business of Jammu city as people will prefer to go straight to Katra and Kashmir without breaking their journey in the Temple City. He said that this is a very crucial issue and therefore people who matter must come up with promising solutions to ensure that Jammu doesn’t become another Pathankot. Jammu Chamber demanded that need of the time is to provide fillip to tourism in Jammu by utilizing its splendid natural beauty so that visitors to the UT were compelled to make a break journey and enhance local economy as reports are averring that train link to Kashmir will be established before the end of 2023, making it critical for the businessmen in Jammu. Arun Gupta also demanded that the government should streamline the system to facilitate traders who have to communicate with various government departments on one issue or the other under the J&K government’s policy of ease of doing business. The issue of expediting projects under the Smart City initiative was also highlighted in the meeting and it was said that proper monitoring should be made to ensure quality works. The President CCI Jammu also demanded immediate blacktopping of the road from Bahu Fort to Har Ki Pouri Mandir, as presently the road is in shambles giving a bad name to authorities which are responsible for the work. After listening to the demands and issues of the CCI team, the Divisional Commissioner exhibiting a very positive gesture asserted that the issues raised are of great importance as far as traders’ fraternity and the common man in Jammu is concerned. Showing extraordinary keenness, he assured that he will try his best to resolve all the problems and will soon come up with the plan to ensure that business in Jammu will not face any dent rather it should flourish better than before. Among those who were present include Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr.Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General CCI, Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI and Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     12th May 2022


CCI meets DC Jammu Avny Lavasa, anticipates warm ties between Admn, traders A team of Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu led by its President Arun Gupta on Wednesday met Avny Lavasa and discussed various issues related to trading community. Felicitating Avny Lavasa for her appointment as Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Arun Gupta said that the Jammu Chamber has lots of hopes from the new Deputy Commissioner Jammu as her tenure as Commissioner JMC was also stupendous because areas falling under Jammu Municipal Corporation have witnessed many drastic changes under her headship. “It was under your term that Jammu Municipal Corporation won the second prize for ‘Best Municipal Corporation in the Plastic Waste Management category’ at the Plastic Recycling Conference Asia 2.0. Of course, it was Avni Lavasa’s out of the box initiatives that have ensured recognition to JMC for its pioneering efforts in the field of plastic recycling”, Arun Gupta said, adding that Jammu is looking forward for the better ties between traders and the administration. He said that people of Jammu are fortunate enough to have such a seasoned officer as the DC. Meanwhile, gun manufacturers who accompanied the CCI team highlighted their issues concerning transport license, no objection certificate and proof testing permissions of guns. Arun Gupta said that the aforesaid things have been arbitrarily delayed at the DM’s office for the last over two months, thus causing trouble to gun manufacturer fraternity. Upon listening to the issue of gun manufacturers, the DC Jammu assured to look into the matter at the earliest and also vowed to bring in procedural changes to streamline the entire process so that no one feels the pinch of arbitrariness of officials in the aforesaid office. Avny Lavasa also thanked the CCI team for according warm welcome and assured that Jammu Administration will leave no stone unturned to mitigate the problems of businessmen of the region besides offering them pedestal for flourishing their establishments and businesses as never before. Among those who were present include Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr.Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General CCI, and Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     May 10, 2022


CCI calls on Commissioner JMC, anticipates trader–friendly environment A team of Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu headed by its President Arun Gupta met Rahul Yadav here on Tuesday and anticipated that the new JMC Commissioner will help in creating a trader-friendly environment in the region. Earlier at the outset of the meeting, the CCI President congratulated the new Commissioner for taking charge of the Jammu Municipal Corporation. He said that CCI is looking forward towards healthy ties between the businessman community and the civic body as they have to play a significant role in the development of the region. Arun Gupta said that CCI Jammu is ready to act as the bridge between the civic body and the business fraternity of Jammu and it is anticipated that both will create a cordial atmosphere which will steer the region towards becoming one of the most developed ones in the country. After taking keen interest in the points raised by the CCI President, Rahul Yadav assured wholehearted support to traders and industrialists of the region calling them important constituents of the local economy. He said that cooperation between the government bodies and trader fraternity is a must for boosting the local economy and realizing development as never before. The delegation of Jammu Chamber comprised of Sh. Rajiv Gupta, Jr. Vice President ,Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary-General , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary Meanwhile, Arun Gupta also appreciated the move of the Central Government for approving a package of Rs 12,000 crore for revamping power infrastructure in J&K. He said that LG Manoj Sinha has played a pivotal role in bringing this utmost necessary package for improving the power edifice in J&K as the same is in shambles due to ignorance and neglect of successive governments ruling the erstwhile state of J&K in the past over 70 years.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     26th April 2022


Provide uninterrupted power; bail out industry, people from crisis: CCI urges LG admin Expressing concern over dwindling situation of electricity supply in the Jammu region, Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), Jammu on Tuesday urged LG Manoj Sinha to take all possible steps for providing 24X7 power to bail out industry and common households from the crisis. Addressing a Press Conference at Chamber House in Jammu, Arun Gupta President CCI Jammu said that the current scenario in Jammu region as far as electricity supply is concerned is quite unfortunate because even the areas having latest smart meters are not being spared from unscheduled power cuts leaving aside the situation of consumers having old meters. He said despite installation of Smart Meters people of Jammu are not getting regular power supply. He asked the administration then what is fun of installing Smart Meters if the concerned has miserably failed to provide frequent power supply. The CCI President emphasized that the power crisis has stalled the work in the industrial areas to a grinding halt which is bad for the UT as this is contrary to what is being projected about development in the region. He said that the common man is facing nightmarish experience with no proper schedule of the power in the region which is unacceptable as people were expecting round the clock supply under the LG’s administration. Arun Gupta, however, praised the LG for taking extraordinary steps in providing facilities to the people but was doubtful with regard to the power scenario. Gupta mentioned that in the past the government had brought power from others states to cover the power shortage. He said that LG should seek special grant as far as power from the Northern grid to provide uninterrupted supply to industry and ensure scheduled electricity cuts for the common people as current uncertainty is highly unfortunate and creates unnecessary problems for the people. The CCI President appealed to LG Sinha for taking some out of the box initiatives to address the issues of power, water and other civic edifice as Jammu region has lately been affected due to dearth of these entities. The others present in the Press Conference include Sh. Lalit Mahajan, President BBIA, Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr.Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary General CCI, and Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     22 April 2022


CCI condemns terror attack on CISF personnel, pays homage to martyred ASI Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu has strongly condemned today’s terrorist attack in Jammu in which one Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel achieved martyrdom and nine jawans were injured. Today in an urgent meeting held at chamber house in which Arun Gupta, President CCI along with the office bearers Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President ,Sh. Rajiv Gupta, Jr. Vice President ,Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary-General , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary ,Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer said that the Chamber strongly condemns the dastardly act of terrorists in pre-dawn attack on the security forces’ bus. He said that such acts are aimed at disturbing the existing peaceful atmosphere of Jammu especially when the VVIP like the Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to Jammu and Kashmir. The Chamber President appreciated the instant retaliation to the attack by the security forces and killing both the terrorists in a nearby house where they had taken shelter while fleeing from the spot of attack. He said that timely action averted heavy casualty of CISF jawans as also some major strike by these fidayeens in the nearby Sunjwan Army Camp. While paying rich tributes to the martyred Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) S P Patil, Arun Gupta said that in this hour of pain the people of this nation stand highly indebted to the security force personnel who are ever ready to lay down their lives for the cause of the nation. He said it is because of their relentless vigilance and alertness that people feel safe and secure and live peacefully. He said that the Chamber members express sympathies with the family members of the martyred ASI and pray for peace to the departed soul. He also conveyed sympathies to injured security personnel praying for their early recovery. Meanwhile, the CCI office bearers headed by Arun Gupta visited the Government Medical College Jammu to know about the well-being of the security forces injured in the terror attack.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     9th April 2022


CCI condemns desecration of idols in Sidhra Temple, seeks probe, strict action against culprits The Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu on Saturday condemned the sacrilegious act of desecration of Hindu Gods idols in Sidhra Temple and demanded thorough probe to nail the culprits and punish them under law of the land. In the meeting held at Chamber House in Jammu, the CCI President Arun Gupta along with the office bearers Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President ,Sh. Rajiv Gupta, Jr. Vice President ,Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary-General , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary ,Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer took strong exception of this atrocious act and urged the UT administration to act stringently against the culprits as the incident has the potential to escalate communal tension. He said that administration should stop the situation from getting flared up as this is important for the society to remain calm and peaceful. While calling the incident as unacceptable, he said that perpetrators of this distasteful act wanted to flare-up communal divide and therefore it is necessary for the people to not give heed to such attempts to vitiate peace. He asked people of Jammu city to come forward and expose such elements who are enemy of peace, prosperity and tranquility. It is pertinent to mention that on Friday some miscreants vandalized a temple in Sidhra area desecrating the idols of Lord Ganesha, Maa Durga and many others.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     28th March 2022


CCI condemns PDD’s power disconnection drive, appeals LG to roll out amnesty scheme Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu while raising serious concern over the drive conducted by the Power Development Department to disconnect the power supply connections consumers in the Jammu region, has appealed to the Govt to immediately rollout an amnesty scheme for the power consumers so that these people are able to pay their power dues comfortably in equated installments. In a statement issued to media here today, Arun Gupta President Chamber of Commerce and Industries Jammu said that it is highly condemnable that during the ongoing drive the Power Department is even disconnecting the power supply connections of commercial establishments as well as residential areas which are just trying to come out of the tremendous economic setback during about two years of the Covid-19 pandemic. Strongly condemning the attitude of the Power Development Department, he said that this unwarranted and inequitable action by the authorities in the Power Department should be stopped immediately. The CCI President said that people on the whole have just been trying to come out of Covid trauma after having suffered for two years on account of huge economic losses and now their children have resumed normal studies including higher studies and professional courses. In such a situation depriving these students of the power supply is gross injustice with them. Asserting that Govt is never expected to be so cruel or harsh against its own people, CCI President Arun Gupta appealed to the UT Administration led by the Lt Governor, Manoj Sinha to immediately order the halting of the aforesaid drive. Instead the Govt must introduce an appropriate Amnesty Scheme so that the power consumers are able to pay their power dues in easy equated installments under the said amnesty scheme, he added.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     16th March 2022


Prpl Secy Horti visits Chamber House, discusses issues related to traders community The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu urged Navin Kumar Choudhary, IAS Principal Secretary to J&K Government, Department of Agriculture Production and Farmer’s Welfare, Animal and Sheep Husbandry Department and Horticulture Department to extend the lease deeds of shopkeepers at Fruit Market Narwal here at Chamber House on Tuesday. President CCI Arun Gupta along with Chamber team after welcoming Navin K Choudhary to Chamber House held extensive discussion on various issues confronting trader community of Jammu region. On the occasion, the welcome address was presented by Gaurav Gupta, General Secretary CCI Jammu. The Chamber President apprised the Principal Secretary that nearly 40 years ago in the year 1980-81, the Sabzimandi Parade and Fruit Market at Jewel were shifted to Narwal. “The traders were allotted land there on lease hold rights to carry on their business. The land was developed with the help of concerned traders by JDA and later by the Horticulture Planning and Marketing Department. The traders constructed their shops/offices on the allotted land for which they had taken loans and obtained bank limits to carry on their business against lease hold properties. Now the lease period of most of shops has expired in the year 2021 and the lease period of remaining shops is expiring by the end of March 2022. The banks are refusing to extend their bank limits etc and the insurance companies are not providing insurance facilities to these traders in absence of extension in the lease periods”, Gupta said. Arun Gupta maintained that upto year 2015 the department had provided the facility of transferring the leasehold rights but after 2015 the process was stopped due to reasons best known to concerned helmsmen. He said that due to financial crises, division of families, old age, illness or loss in the business, the original allottees have executed “Power of Attorney” to carry on their businesses. “At present almost 50 per cent shop sites are occupied by the attorney holders. The banks/financial institutions are not providing financial help to these traders due to non-transfer of shops etc. in their favour”, he said and appealed to the Principal Secretary to give due attention to this genuine issue. Besides, he also appealed to Naveen K Choudhary to stop the export of raw paddy which is going outside from Jammu and Kashmir to ensure sustenance of the existing rice units. Arun Gupta said that J&K UT has been declared as procurement zone for the past few years. “Last year J&K has procured 2.40 lakh quintals of wheat but here the consumption is 7 to 8 lakh quintals per month. This clearly means that UT of J&K is a consumption state and not the procurement state. FCI has stopped the sale of wheat in the procurement states therefore it is requested to convert UT of J&K into non-procurement zone so that FCI floats fresh tenders for the sale of wheat”, he said and urged Naveen K Choudhary to take immediate steps with regard to aforesaid issues to bail out people of the UT from the grave crisis. After giving a patient hearing, the Principal Secretary assured that all the demands putforth by the Jammu Chamber shall be considered and necessary action shall be taken as per the extant norms including extension of lease deeds, transfer of rights and building permissions for shops in the Mandis. The Principal Secretary Agriculture also asked CCI members to avail benefits of different schemes launched by the government in agriculture and other sectors for better business performance. Among the major schemes, he emphasized on Agriculture Infrastructure Fund and Formalization of Medium Enterprises. Vishesh Mahajan, JKAS, Director Horticulture Planning & Marketing also accompanied the Principal Secretary. Those who were present in the function Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary,CCI Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI Sh. Rajesh Gupta,Working President VHP, Sh. Sham Langer, Sh. Om Shah , Sh. Suresh Gupta, Sh. Ravinder Sawhney, Sh. Deepak Gupta, President Trader Federation Warehouse Sh, Surinder Singh Kala, Sh. Mohan Lal, Sh. Jagdish Langer, Sh. Rakesh Gupta, Sh. Anil Gupta, Sh. Narinder Gupta and others.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     28th February 2022


LJK-LEAD team visits Chamber House, assures to reduce communication gap between Govt and Industrialists The team of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir Economic Growth and Development Dialogue (LJK-LEAD) led by its Director Sunil Shah visited the Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) House here today. They interacted with the members of Jammu CCI taking stock of the problems being faced by them. Arun Gupta, President Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industries presented the welcome address on the occasion. He highlighted the main issues and problems and issues of the traders and industrialists of Jammu and Kashmir especially due to the setback received due to lockdown and other restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic. He said industrialists are facing huge economic crisis with a lot of concerns already closed besides others on the verge of closure awaiting a helping hand from the Govt and its agencies for their rehabilitation through financial support augmented by commerce and industry friendly schemes well formulated to overcome the problems of business community. The CCI President Arun Gupta said that Industrialists of Jammu are facing numerous problems due to non-productive policies of J&K Govt. He said that on one hand government is inviting investors from other states and seeking foreign investment while the already existing industries continue to be the worst sufferers. During their interaction with the LJK-LEAD team the CCI office bearers and Industrialist members said that the Government does not listen to the vital stakeholders’ suggestions and woes. They said that Govt should encourage existing industrialists adding that on ground lack of mis-communication between Govt and stakeholders is further adding to their woes. Seeking expansion model for the existing industries they alleged that there are no proper start up schemes for the industrialists in J&K and most probably it is because of this that practically no start up venture is visible on ground. After giving the CCI members a patient hearing, Director Sunil Shah said that the LJK-LEAD team led by him is working relentlessly with the aim to reduce the gap between Govt and industrialists. He asserted that his team will make level best efforts to establish a strong bridge between these two significant components of the society in J&K. Emphasizing that the economy of the nation, states and the Union territories depends substantially on the commerce and industries sector, he said that he will take up all the issues highlighted by CCI before the government so that the gap between the Govt and stakeholders would be reduced to bare minimum. Those present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajeev Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurv Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer, Sh. Lalit Mahajan, President Bari Brahmana Industrial Association, Sh. Rajesh Jain, Sh. Jagdish Langer, Sh. T.S.Reen, Sh. Pardeep Vaid, Sh. Bansi Lal Gupta, Sh. S.B.Abrol, Sh. Anil Raina, Sh. Anil Gupta, Sh. K.K.Khosa, Sh. A.S.Sachdeva, Sh. Balbir Gupta, Sh. Sahib Saroop Gupta, Sh. Surinder Mohan Gupta, Sh. Ravi Gupta, Sh. Harinder Gupta, Sh. Deepak Gupta

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     21st February 2022


Provide adequate parking for shops along Akhnoor Road: CCI Gaurav Gupta, General Secretary CCI today appealed to R.K Singh, Executive Director NHIDCL Jammu to provide adequate parking space for the shops situated along Akhnoor Road stretch between 0 Km to 6 Km. Chamber’s Gen Secretary led delegation of Akhnoor Road traders called on Executive Director NHIDCL Jammu and projected number of issues which this business community was confronting due to construction of flyover. Gaurav asserted that there are approximately 500 traders who have been affected due to road widening and flyover work and therefore it is first and foremost requirement that adequate parking slots be provided for those who want to have business dealings with the traders in the aforesaid stretch as with the changed scenario parking has become a big issue. He advised the NHIDCL official to utilize the space underneath the flyover by developing the same as designated parking so that the need to go for specific parking building gets eliminated and the concerned people can utilize the space in the best possible way. The Chamber’s General Secretary said that developing parking between the pillars of flyover like the case in Delhi and Ludhiana, will resolve the issue to a large extent and no extra cost will be incurred to change the space into parking slots. After giving a patient hearing, the Executive Director NHIDCL was impressed by the idea and he readily accepted the same for execution. It is pertinent to mention that the CCI President Arun Gupta had called on Divisional Commissioner Jammu Dr Raghav Langer about three days ago and discussed the aforesaid issue for finding an early resolution as the construction work on Akhnoor Road was creating hindrances in the businesses of the local traders having shops in the vicinity. As a panacea, the Divisional Commissioner has assured the CCI President that he will arrange a meeting of the Chamber with the NHIDCL officials to sort out the issues regarding the Akhnoor Road traders. Today’s meeting was the follow up of the aforesaid interaction of CCI President with Dr Langar.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     19 February 2022


Narwal Mandi traders’ call on CCI President A delegation of vegetable and fruit Mandi association from Narwal Mandi comprising of Sh. Sham Lal Langer, Ex-Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Davinder Gupta, President, Fruit Market Association, S. Sirinder Singh, President Vegetables Market Narwal, Sh. Ashok Gupta, Vice President Fruit Market, Sh. Raj Kumar and Sh. S.K.Gupta today met Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu at the Chamber House here today. The delegation brought to the notice of the Chamber President multiple issues of the traders including the expired leasehold of their shops and dilapidated road condition and poor sanitation in the Narwal Mandi area. The delegation members deliberated upon their issues and concerns during their elaborate meeting with the Chamber President. The delegation members said that the pressing issue of the traders is the extension of lease period of shops at Narwal Mandi which has been irking the traders dealing in vegetables and fruits, running their establishments in the Fruit and Vegetable Market, Narwal Mandi for the past four decades. Even the transfer of shops is not being allowed for the last seven years due to which the traders of the area are not able to get their limits enhanced from their respective banks thus are facing financial crunch. The delegation apprised the Chamber President that the shops were allotted to them on a lease period of 40 years and now the lease of all their shops needs to be renewed by J&K Horticulture Planning and Marketing Department by duly extending the tenure of the original lease. They added that for the last some time, the department is not extending the lease period of their shops at Narwal Mandi, Jammu and regretted that despite repeated requests, the officers sitting at the helm of affairs failed to show any serious concern towards this grave issue concerning the Narwal Mandi traders. They also highlighted that the business community is already facing the impact of Covid-19 pandemic for the last more than two years, especially the traders dealing in fruits and vegetables have faced immense losses during the aforesaid period. They asserted that in view of the fret of non extension of lease tenure these traders are unable to concentrate properly on their business thus further accentuating their losses. They said that there is a dire need for converting the lease-hold of the shops of concerned traders into free-hold so that the problem is ended once for all. They also raised the issue pertaining to the ongoing road work which is going at Narwal Mandi road in front of the entry gate of fruit and vegetable creating unnecessary hindrance to the traders . Arun Gupta listened patiently to the delegation members and assured he would soon take up the highlighted issues with the government and get the same addressed soon. The Other Office bearers of CCI present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Rajeev Gupta. Jr. Vice President

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     13 February 2022


J&K Admn moving in right direction with expeditious pace: CCI ‘Like musical fountain, also complete artificial lake project in record time’ The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu on Sunday appreciated J&K administration’s endeavours to pace up development in the UT by realizing several development projects one after another. In a statement issued here, CCI President Arun Gupta alongwith the office bearers Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President , Sh. Rajiv Gupta, Jr. Vice President , Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary-General , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary , Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer applauded the efforts of LG Manoj Sinha for giving a fillip to development in Jammu by completing a number of development projects in record time. He welcomed the installation and commissioning of the Musical Fountain in Bagh-E-Bahu Fort and relaying of stone for the artificial lake project. Assuring full support to the government, he said that the exemplary pace with which the development is taking place in Jammu the days are not far when the tourist footfall in the region will cross all the previous records. He said that this was quite necessary to provide the required push to the local economy as there is no dearth of natural beauty in the vicinity of Jammu City but due to lackadaisical approach of previous governments the region failed to pick up pace as far as development and improvement in places of tourist interest are concerned. He anticipated that the interest shown by LG’s administration towards improving the tourist edifice in Jammu region will bring tremendous changes in socio-economic profile through creation of new livelihood opportunities and also by significant increase in the influx of tourists hailing from different parts of the country and abroad. He however, urged LG Sinha to make sure that the artificial lake project see the light of the day well in time because already much delay has been caused due to hiccups and lethargy of the successive governments that did only lip service but never paid any heed on ground thus leading to missing of deadlines one after another. He said that once completed, the Tawi Lake Project will help in making Jammu an independent tourist destination catering the aspirations of the visitors of this city of temples in a complete manner. He urged the LG to continue with the good work as this is necessary to bring Jammu on the country's tourist map and help people to lead a happy and contented life with no dearth of basic amenities and civic edifice.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     9th February 2022


CCI anguished over withdrawal of posts advertised by JKPSC, JKSSB Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jammu has urged the UT Govt. to review the decision of cancelling all the posts advertised by the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) and Services Selection Board (SSB) prior to October 31, 2019. This was expressed during an urgent meeting of CCI Jammu held in this connection at Chamber House here today. In the meeting held under the chairmanship of Arun Gupta, President CCI alongwith the office bearers Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajiv Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary-General CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI. expressed anguish over the decision of J&K Government, terming it as a bolt from the blue for the youth. The Chamber President raised a significant question on the Government’s statement that all the cancelled posts will be re-advertised and filled on fast track basis. He asked whether the government will allow the youth who have become over-aged while waiting for the written examinations, to apply for such jobs when re-advertised. He said that it is an irony that government instead of creating new job avenues and fill all the posts lying vacant in several government departments of Jammu and Kashmir has begun the campaign of withdrawing the advertisements for various posts.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     8th February 2022


CCI hails Govt. for lifting weekend lockdown The meeting of different market /trade and Industrial Associations was held today at Chamber House under the Presidentship of Sh. Arun Gupta. The main point discussed in the meeting was the situation has arisen due to the spread of the Corona Virus, which compelled the government to impose some restrictions include weekend lockdown initially on Saturday and Sunday and later the same has imposed from 2 PM on Friday up to 6 AM on Monday. Sh. Arun Gupta President CCI talked to the local administration and convinced them that the lockdown is no solution and it will only affect the business community who have already suffered huge losses due to previous lockdowns. Initially, with the intervention of Chamber shops were got opened on Friday's till 9 PM instead of 2 PM However with the continuous effort of the chamber team requesting the administration to lift the lockdown for Saturdays amid in the declining of several covid cases and finally convinced the administration to open the shops on Saturday’s followed by the recent announcement to lift the weekend lockdown. President CCI express gratitude to the administration as well as the business community for their whole-hearted cooperation and support due to which it all happened and Chamber succeeded in curbing the situation from going bad to worse. The others present in the meeting include Sh. Anil Gupta, Sr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Rajiv Gupta, Jr. Vice President CCI, Sh. Gaurav Gupta, Secretary-General CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Secretary CCI, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Treasurer CCI, Sh. Sham Lal Kalsotra, President CCI Udhampur Sh. Romesh Chander Gupta, Ex-President CCI, Sh. Sham Lal Langer, Ex-Sr. Vice President CCI.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     3rd February 2022


Waiving 50 pc passenger tax progressive move: CCI The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu on Thursday termed the move of J&K Administration to waive off 50 percent passenger tax chargeable on various vehicles for one year as progressive and demanded that same should be abolished in J&K UT as it is not applicable in other Union Territories of the country. The meeting held here today at the Chamber House was chaired by President CCI Jammu, Arun Gupta and attended among others by Sr. Vice President, Anil Gupta; Jr. Vice President, Rajeev Gupta; Secretary General, Gaurav Gupta; Secretary, Rajesh Gupta and Treasurer, Rajesh Gupta welcomed the recent decisions headed by LG Manoj Sinha to waive off 50 percent Passenger Tax Chargeable on various vehicles for one year from 1st April 2020 to 31st March 2021 asserting that the same will address genuine demand of operators of commercial vehicles. The Jammu Chamber appealed to the government to abolish the passenger tax once and for all as the same is not applicable in other UTs of the country. The Chamber also appreciated the LG Manoj Sinha for constituting a 3-tier committee to demarcate "Gair Mumkin Khad" especially in 3 districts including Jammu, Kathua and Samba and for seeking report within three months. “This will give a major relief to the people who are suffering because of erroneous/ misleading entries of such water bodies in their revenue records”, the meeting said adding that the LG’s initiative in this regard is quite appreciable and Chamber thanks him for showing magnanimity over the issue. The CCI members anticipated that by redefining the Gair Mumkin Khads, the avenues for investments as desired by the LG Sinha will take a big leap as confusion over the issue was marring the scope of the same over the last many years. After threadbare discussion on the impact of continuous lockdowns in different forms in the UT of J&K, Chamber made a fervent appeal to J&K Administration to revisit the decision under the light of PM Modi’s suggestion that the restrictions on account of COVID should not hinder the business activity and people’s livelihood. Arun Gupta appealed to the J&K Administration to completely lift all the restrictions which are hampering the business activity in Jammu Province as the same has become significant to ensure sustenance of businessmen fraternity in the region. He said that COVID cases have also started showing considerable downfall therefore it is needful now to make an end to weekend lockdowns and give the businessmen a fair chance to earn livelihood and the trade to come back on rails once again.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     1st February 2022


Budget has nothing significant for trade, industry: CCI Terming the Budget 2022 as insignificant for the business community, President Chamber for Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu Arun Gupta said that the Finance Minister has nothing in offing for the small traders and industrialists. In the statement issued to media persons here on Tuesday, Arun Gupta said that over all everything is touched in the budget but with a big disappointment for the traders and industrialists who were confronting mounting pressure due to restrictions and continuous setbacks in the last over two years due to pandemic corona and its related problems. He said the government has announced certain benefits for the overall development of the country like e-passports,two years time for updating IT returns, Increase in Defence budget, 80 lacs houses under PM Awas Yojana, Master Plan for 25000 KM Expressway, 400 New Generation Vande Bharat Trains, Har Ghar Nal se Jal etc. which are welcome steps. He said that what is missing in the budget is a big announcement for marginal traders who were worst hit by the pandemic and expecting relief from the Modi Government in the form of significant sops or some other big reliefs or incentives.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     31st January 2022


CCI deputation calls on Atal Dulloo, discusses issues related to traders The Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu deputation called on Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary) Atal Dulloo and discusses various issues related to traders’ community. The deputation submitted a memorandum giving details of the demands. The ace body of traders and industrialists under the leadership of its President Arun Gupta demanded VAT and Power Amnesty Schemes for the concerned business community. It was explained that under VAT and Power Amnesty Schemes it was provided that defaulters can deposit their dues without interest and penalties but due to continued lockdown and financial crunch some traders could not avail the benefit of the scheme therefore deserve one more chance to deposit the VAT dues and power bills without interest and penalties. It was also demanded that the limit for e-way bills should be enhanced from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1 lakh. Arun Gupta also urged the Fin Comm to ensure that power bills from hoteliers should be charged on the pattern of industries as was the case in the past. The CCI delegation also requested Atal Dulloo that the Industries who could not claim the SGST in the year 2017 therefore the same should be given a chance to claim that amount. The CCI also asked Dulloo to give an opportunity to the assessees of GST to file their GST returns during the lockdown period of Covid-19. It was also informed that there are some assessees who also have filed their GST returns after the expiry of date therefore an appeal was made that their cases should also be considered and brought under the aforesaid scheme. The delegation also sought government help in revival of The Citizens Cooperative Bank Ltd. Jammu and also demanded extension of 5% interest subsidy to the business community which was given during the first phase of the lockdown. The Financial Commissioner gave a patient hearing to the Chamber deputation and assured for early consideration of issues putforth during the meeting.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     26 January 2022


CCI celebrates 73rd Republic Day with patriotic fervor Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI), Jammu today celebrated the 73rd Republic Day with great fervour here today. An impressive programme was organized at the Chamber House which commenced with the hoisting of National Flag by Arun Gupta, President Chamber of Commerce and Industries Jammu in presence of other office bearers and senior members of the CCI. On the occasion, Arun Gupta unfurled the National Flag after which the whole premises reverberated with the singing of National Anthem amid salutations to the National Tricolour and the martyrs who laid down their lives while protecting the territorial integrity of the nation on the borders and the hinterland. In his address, Arun Gupta threw light on the martyrdom of freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the cause of the nation and its people as a result of which the people of the World’s largest Democracy are enjoying full freedom and self esteem having earned honour and dignity at the global level. Gupta said that Republic Day is the most auspicious day for the whole nation and its people and being the most vibrant democracy of the world, it deserves to be celebrated like a festival with full enthusiasm and gaiety amid participation of people from diverse cultures as ‘Unity in Diversity’ is the hallmark of the Indian democracy. The Chamber President assured that CCI members will leave no stone unturned in taking J&K on the glorious path of development and prosperity. It is pertinent to mention here that the celebration was held amid strict adherence to the Covid-19 protocols, patriotic fervour and exuberance.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     25th January 2022


CCI deputation calls on CS, seeks change in weekend lockdown timing The Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CCI) Jammu deputation called on Chief Secretary Arun Kumar Mehta here on Tuesday and sought change in timing of weekend lockdown to be imposed on upcoming Friday besides highlighting various other demands. In the meeting with Chief Secretary J&K, the CCI delegation led by its President Arun Gupta raised the issue of ensuing weekend lockdown scheduled to be imposed on Friday at 2:00 PM till the Monday morning and demanded that the same should be imposed after 9:00 PM on the aforesaid day as the business community has already incurred colossal losses and such curbs are further causing undue losses to the people earning their livelihood through business. President CCI said that government should consider the hardships of the business community of J&K before taking the decisions of lockdowns. He said that a considerate view should be taken by the government before directing the businessmen to shut their establishments especially on the weekday viz Friday. Arun Gupta also highlighted the issue of New Excise Policy which has rendered the owners of the previous wine shops jobless and even penniless. He urged the Chief Secretary to examine and find some via-media to review the Excise Policy to accommodate the old licensees who lost their source of income. He also said that the policy should be formulated to ensure local trade and business guarantee as per the sentiments of the people of the region. The CCI President welcomed the government move whereby agriculture land can be used for residential, commercial, real estate purposes. “This is a welcome step and will enable the outside investors to establish their units here”, he added. He urges the chair to redefine “Kism” land type so that people in large besides investors should invest hassle free. Arun Gupta also demanded that the security pickets around Raghunathji Temple should be removed and frisking should be optimal to raise the sense of security among the devotees as the current practice is a bit harsh leading to apprehensions among the minds of visitors. The Chief Secretary gave a patient hearing to the Chamber deputation and assured for early consideration of issues putforth during the meeting.

Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)

O.B-31 Rail Head Complex Jammu

Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266

CCJ/22/2022                                                              Press Note                                                     23 December 2021


VC JDA, CCI team visits new terminal at Bus Stand On the request of Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Jammu, Vice Chairman Jammu Development Authority (JDA), Pankaj Magotra today visited the newly constructed bus terminal at Jammu and took stock of the hardships being faced by traders. In this connection, a team of CCI Jammu headed by Arun Gupta apprised the Vice Chairman JDA about the problems being faced by shopkeepers of the old and new terminals of General Bus Stand Jammu. Rajiv Gupta Junior Vice President ,Gaurav Gupta, General Secretary and Rajesh Gupta Secretary also accompanied the President CCI Jammu. Mr Madhu Sharm President General bus stand shopkeeper Association and Ramesh Tak, President Trader welfare Association General Bus stand were also present. The shopkeepers of new bus terminal apprised the Vice Chairman that the customers are not reaching the new terminal. They further apprised the Vice Chairman there is several shortcomings for a smooth start of the terminal as some furnishing work is still pending like power connections, water logging, Lift not functional etc. They requested the Vice Chairman to address these genuine issues and take necessary steps to make the newly constructed terminal operational. Arun Gupta said that the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha had inaugurated the new Bus Stand Terminal in the month of February but surprisingly this much awaited facility is yet to become completely operational. Arun Gupta appealed to the Vice Chairman JDA to take necessary step in addressing the issues raised by traders of General Bus Stand and take all possible steps for smooth functioning of new Bus Stand Terminal. Later the Vice Chairman and CCI visited the Old Bus Stand and listened to the problems being faced traders. The Vice Chairman JDA gave a patient hearing to the traders of Bus Stand and assured the CCI team that all the aforesaid shortcomings will be resolved within shortest possible time.