In a Memorandum submitted to Sh. Dinesh Trivedi Hon'ble Union Railway
Minister by Sh. Y.V. Sharma , President Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Jammu, the following demands were highlighted for taking into a consideration
during the presentation of Railway Budget 2012-2013.
1.
Railway Coach Factory to give Philip to the pace of industrialization,
setting up of a Rail Coach Factory will go along way in fulfilling the long
awaited dream of the people of this region. This will also generate lot of
employment opportunities. It will also give boost to the process of
ancillarization of the industrial units.
2.
The Double laning of Railway Track from Jammu to Jullundhar which is
already in progress, though a bit slow has to ensure that Jammu Station is
connected immediately.
3.
One Shatabadi Train from Jammu to Delhi and back is of utmost
importance which will benefit both tourists and business community. Though an
experiment was made in the years gone by but which could not be successful due
to various stops on various stations which were not exactly suiting the people
travelling from Jammu to Delhi and back in this train. This Shatabadi train has
to be precisely from Jammu to Delhi and back.
4.
We request to start a direct train from Jammu to Bangalore. It is very
old demand of the people of J&K State. We would like to make it clear that
thousands of students from our state are studying in various colleges in
Bangalore Even this particular train will facilitate defense forces also. So we
request that this train may kindly be sanctioned in this budget.
5.
Remodeling of Yards and extension of two Platforms at Jammu Railway
Station is very essential.
6.
Jammu Railway Station should be developed as a world class station as
we are receiving tourists and religious pilgrims from all over the
country especially
the pilgrims going to Mata Vaishno Devi.
7.
An extra Foot over Bridge (FOB) from Plate form No.3 to the circulation
area is required to the congest the main platform.
(Y.V. Sharma)
President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
Press Note 13th February 2012
RESOLUTION
In an extra ordinary meeting of Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu held on 13-02-2012, the executive committee of Chamber expressed heartfelt condolences on the sad and untimely demise of Sh. Satish Gupta, Secretary General Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu. In the meeting members passed the following resolution unanimously.
Expressing deep sorrow at the demise of Sh. Satish Gupta, the Chamber prays to the Almighty to give peace and solace to his soul and give strength to the family to bear this irreparable loss.
The Chamber feels that with the demise of Sh. Satish Gupta, the business and social community of Jammu in general and the Chamber of Commerce & Industry in particular has lost a dedicated, dynamic and effective leader, who had been associated with the Chamber for last more than 25 years. His contribution, the working of the Chamber and the cause of business community was highly lauded.
We have received condolence messages from the following organizations i.e Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Federation Chamber of Industries, Kashmir, Traders Association, Kishtwar and various trade organization from Jammu
(Y.V. Sharma)
President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2012 Press Note 9th February 2012
Mr. Y.V. Sharma, President Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Mr. Abdul Hamid Punjabi, President Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry in a formal meeting alongwith their Office Bearers identified common issues which need to be taken up with the State Government/Central Government for the economic development of the State.
Many common issues were discussed such as implementation of GST regime, and it was common opinion that it should not be made applicable before the requisite law is framed and approved by the Parliament.
FDI in retail somehow if gets approved by the Union Government, our submission made earlier stands that it should not be made applicable in our state, otherwise not only the problem of unemployment will increase but many people will be subjected under BPL category.
The growth of industry in the shape of creation of new industrial estates be preferred and the vital issue of electricity, and its supply should be ensured. On this issue Presidents of both the Chambers agreed that for the better and continuous supply of electricity both the chamber wants to emphasize on the state government for the return of power projects from NHPC. It will not only make the state of J&K self sufficient in power but the surplus will result in economic development of the state in future.
The major point on which both the Chambers were unison that the central government should give one time debt relief to the State of J&K from 1990. This will augur well for creating the necessary conducive climate for the private sector in the State to invest again in all the sectors of the economy.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2012 Press Note 8 th February 2012
In Press a Note Sh. Y.V. Sharma President CCI expressed deep anguish over the deteriorating services of BSNL Mobile facility. Even after the continues effort it is difficult to get the desired number due to technical snags and congestion. Often the running call gets disconnected and the number becomes out of range / reach. It is a fact that the BSNL has largest number of consumers due to old confidence and first service provider. It is unfortunate that the premier Mobile service provider i..e BSNL has become complacent about its working.
We strongly condemn the callous attitude of the service providers . it has to be highlighted that the mobile service has become sine-quanon for civil life. It becomes well nigh impossible to carry on the day today activities without this service. Defective service with this regard can cause medical problems to the users of this service. It is of paramount importance that the authorities have to very well weigh that how much the system of the service provider can accommodate the load. The immediate rectification of this service is highly desirable.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2012 Press Note 7 th February 2012
City Chowk repair mismanaged – great inconvenient and financial loss for public
A meeting of the Office bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu was held today at Chamber House under the Presidentship of Sh. Y.V. Sharma in which besides various issues pertaining to Trade and Industry, the working of government agencies involved in public related facilities like repairs of roads and other amenities were discussed. Members expressed their grave concern about the working of such jobs which are not attended properly and are not time bound and without consultations with the public concernd. Only few months back a Nallah was repaired in Kanak Mandi near City Chowk which took unscheduled more time causing great difficulties to the general public and the trading community wherein of Kanak Mandi area in particular suffered losses of crore of rupees and the total business remained paralyzed. Now again the government agency working for the sewerage system of the city has put the main busy city chowk under digging for sewerage system. Past one month has gone but the small piece of job is not completed yet which has blocked all the routes through this busy city chowk and is creating lot of inconvenience to the general public with regard to their movement at vehicular movement causing again great loss to the business community in these days of marriages etc.
Office bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry unanimously opined that the Government / Agencies concerned with the repair of this busiest area of the city i.e City Chowk should be set right for the Traffic and Pedestrians at the earliest even if they have to undertake this job during night hours.
Chamber feels its obligation towards society to advise government agencies and the concerned officers to take their responsibilities seriously to start such jobs in due consultation with the trading community of that area and complete the work in a time bound system to save the general public from unnecessary and unwanted inconvenience and financial loss to the trading community who have to earn their livelihood on day today basis and not on the fixed monthly salary.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2012 Press Note 4 th February 2012
In an emergency meeting of the Office Bearer of the Chamber, presided over by Mr. Y.V. Sharma, President Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu has received representations from various sections of civil society complaining against the harsh way in which various taxes / tariffs are being levied on the people without any publicly visible notice. The Levies for water, electricity, maintenance charges by Municipal Corporations and many such levies are being thrust upon the people by the officials responsible for collecting these levies without any government notice, circular, order in any public channel. This speaks of non transparency, absence of dialogue or accountability which speaks of governance devoid of reason, logic and public interaction. Moreover the levies are so exhorbitant that increasing the levies or tariffs so many times in one go shatters the budget of the people who are already wiltering under the pressure of inflation and rising prices. At the same time there is no guarantee from the government that even after charging hefty levies there will be any improvement in the delivery of services of these sectors. Extortion of money from the people in the name of services which are already in bad shape does not speak well of welfare state.
The chamber strongly protests against this arbitrary style of imposition and request the government to review these exorbitant hikes and the way in which they has been imposed.
The government must also explain the reason behind such hefty hike in one go. The imposition of maintenance tax by the municipal corporation goes against the very spirit of its formation. The chamber believes in cooperating with the government but it also expect the government to be rational, transparent, people friendly and realistic.
Chamber feels grieved that the elected representatives of the people who promised to give sky to the people at the time of election remain mum and action-less when such imposition are thrust on the people and collections are made under duress. The meeting was attended by Sh. Tara Chand Gupta, Sr. Vice President, Sh. Ram Sarup Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh. Manish Gupta, Secretary, Sh. Deepak Aggarwal, Treasurer.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2012 Press Note 31 st January 2012
The Municipal Corporation Jammu is collecting some sort of shop tax etc from the traders in Jammu city. It came to the notice of Chamber of commerce & Industry Jammu about 20 days back and Chamber had enquired about this tax from the Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation, wherein chamber has stressed that such type of tax being collected was irrelevant and no such notification of the government had come to light. Now again the complaints are pouring in that they have again started collection of said tax.
President Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu discussed this issue with the Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation and it has been stressed upon that no such tax be collected unless and until the issue is thoroughly discussed with the trading community. President Sh. Y.V. Sharma has also discussed this issue with the hon'ble Dy. Chief Minister few day back and he has assured that no such tax will be collected unless and until the issue is discussed with the stakeholders. Henceforth we request the Commissioner Jammu Municipal Corporation not to send any party for collection of this irrelevant tax viz-a-viz Chamber of Commerce & Industry requests to the trading community not to entertain anybody who demands such tax till the issue is resolved.
(Tara Chand Gupta)
Sr. Vice President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2012 Press Note 28 th January 2012
A delegation of Chamber of Commerce & Industry led by Sh. Y.V. Sharma, President met Hon'ble Finance Minister Sh. A.R. Rather and submitted a detailed Memorandum. In the memorandum the points elucidated and forcefully represented include
i. The various rates in the VAT list having different rates and sometimes exhorbitant rates than the rates in the other states of the country. Items required to be exempted from VAT, Sir, this persistent demand should immediately be conceded because the basic need of the VAT regime was uniform Taxation throughout the country.
ii. The exhorbitant hike in stamp duty with regard to the mortgages and documentation while getting loans from the bank
iii. Lack of infrastructure like the development of new Industrial estates, shopping complexes, Warehouses, Cold Storages, Parking facilities and other amenities of civilized life, good roads etc.
iv. Enhancement of Threshold limit and T.O.T limit in VAT.
v. Problems of confiscating the goods and wrong interpretation of certain rules and provisions at Lakhanpur Check Post.
vi. Problem of I.T. Sector and absence of clear cut Trade Policy.
vii. The provisions of the Provident Fund Act
Chamber also urged that to run trade and industry smoothly the city must have peaceful and organized traffic system. So to decongest the cities of Jammu / Srinagar Chamber made a fervent appeal to introduce mono rail project which can contribute to decongest both the cities. Mono rail project will go a long way in transporting people from one corner to the other. It will also enhance tourism potential of both the cities of the state. It was also suggested that the feasibility of Metro rail service in both the cities of the state should be thoroughly studied. Thrust was also put to start work on approved flyovers and places of parking lots which will also help in decongestion of traffic. It was further requested to take maximum benefits to produce electricity from the existing hydel projects and taking over the charge of Salal and Uri projects etc to ensure electricity viz-a-viz check the T&D losses. Chamber also made a fervent plea to waive off toll tax on import of fresh fruit and vegetables from outside the state. Chamber also suggested to create new Industrial estates, warehouses and big Malls to create employment opportunities in the state.
The Hon'ble Finance Minister assured to under take a quick survey for providing sufficient land near Raya Morh as promised in the last year's budget speech for creation of new warehouse.
The delegation was comprised of office bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry, heads of various trade and industrial organizations, representatives from Automobile Industry, fruit and vegetables association, stone crusher association and general distributor association etc..
(Tara Chand Gupta)
Sr. Vice President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2012 Press Note 26 th January 2012
Republic Day was celebrated by Chamber House where good number of
members were present. The triclolor was hoisted by President Sh. Y.V.
Sharma. National Anthem was sung at the occasion. Members were very
enthusiastic. Mr. Sharma Spoke about the importance of Republic day.
(Tara Chand Gupta)
Sr. Vice President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
Press Invitation 24th January 2012
We regret to inform you that our today's programme with Hon'ble Dy. Chief Minister, Sh. Tara Chand and Revenue Minister Sh. Raman Bhalla to discuss the matter regarding Commercial activities in Residential Colonies, at Chamber House O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu at 3.45 PM has been changed and we will inform you about future program accordingly. The inconvenience caused is highly regretted.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
Press Invitation 23rd January 2012
Chamber of Commerce & Industry has arranged an interaction meeting with Hon’ble Dy. Chief Minister, Sh. Tara Chand and Revenue Minister Sh. Raman Bhalla to discuss the matter regarding Commercial activities in Residential Colonies, at Chamber House O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu on Tuesday 24th January 2012 at 3.45 PM
You are requested to kindly participate and oblige us by making necessary arrangements for covering the said event..
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/11/2012 Press Note 16 th January 2012
An emergency meeting of office bearers and senior members of Chamber of Commerce & Industry to consider the imposition of municipal tax on shops and houses which were highly objected by traders , social bodies and all jammuites. Members took serious note about the attitude and approach of the government to impose such taxes arbitrary without taking into confidence the stakeholders i.e the trade bodies, social bodies etc. proposed tax is also not justified as the public is already heavily under the burden of existing heavy taxes and unemployment. Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu appeals to the government to review the decision and feels that it is pertinent to discuss the issue with concerned trade bodies social organizations nominated citizens and member of legislative assembly. It is not out of place to mention that sanitation arrangements are not well attend by concerned municipal officer's main drains and nallahs remain always chocked and lanes and by lanes of the city show shabby look..
(Tara Chand Gupta)
Sr. Vice President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCI/12/2011 Press Note 5th January 2011
In an emergency meeting of the Office bearers of Chamber of Commerce & Industry chaired by Sh. Y.V. Sharma, President Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu noted with due appreciation the projects which are going to be undertaken by the government in the days to come. It may be the project with regard to Chenab Water Supply Scheme for greater Jammu, may be starting of fly-over work and such other projects which were long over due. It is pertinent to mention that atleast two more flyovers are required in addition to that of Bikram Chowk to Satwari - Flyover from Jewel to Canal which will cater at least 20% of population of the city as that are upto Bohri is very congested, second from Jewel Chowk to Amphalla which will facilitate total civil and army traffic towards Kashmir Valley. These projects will go a long way in making the life of the people of Jammu better. Chamber would also like to highlight that the projects like multi-tier parking have also to be under taken on priority basis. Any delay in these projects will make the life of the people in Jammu city more difficult. In fact these projects have to be taken on war footing.
Chamber also puts on record their due appreciation and congratulates the Hon'ble Chief Minister for undertaking the renovation works of the Abhinav theatre which is of utmost importance. Chamber also registers its appreciations for again resuming the work on the under construction convention center at Canal Road. This project is once again of great importance as the people of Jammu do not have any such place to do meetings, seminars etc.
Chamber would like to request the authorities which undertake different activities in and around Jammu may be like repairing of roads in the cities, digging of roads for laying sewerage lines etc. these may be done in such a way that they do not effect the day to day life of the citizens.
Chamber also would like to request that four laning of roads from Kunjwani to Satwari may be done in such a way that it does not result into jamming of traffic for hours together which ultimately puts the citizenry into lot of inconvenience, felling of trees on two sides of roads should be undertaken in such a way that it does not cause traffic blockade etc.
(Satish Gupta)
Secretary General
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCI/12/2011 Press Note 17th December 2011
A meeting of Presidents of various markets / Trades of Jammu was held in the Chamber House under the Presidentship of Sh. Y.V. Sharma
A comprehensive discussion was held about the proposed call for Jammu Bandh on 20th December 2011 by Jammu Bar Association.
It was felt by all the participant unanimously that the on going strike by Bar Association is based on genuine reasons, that a practice of registration in Judiciary is being observed since last 90 years. There seems no reasons to switch over from Judiciary to executive. Hence it was resolved that Chamber of Commerce & Industry should fully support the genuine call for bandh and thus Chamber of Commerce & Industry requests all the business community to observe complete bandh on 20th December 2011. But at the same time Chamber of Commerce & Industry firmly and strongly appeal to the government to consider the genuine demand of Bar association to maintain peace and tranquility in the city.
(Tara Chand Gupta)
Sr. Vice President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 15th December 2011
Sh. Y.V. Sharma President Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu appeals to the Government to evolve a consensus and avoid the stand off between the Bar Association of Jammu, the legal fraternity, on the issue of transferring the powers of registration from Judiciary to Revenue Department.
Mr. Sharma stressed the importance of meaning-full dialogue for resolving the issues of civil society and not to put it to any unwanted inconvenience unnecessarily.
Mr. Sharma specially referred to the Bandh Call of the Bar Associations on 20th December and the support given to it by various organizations. According to Mr. Sharma the strong response which the bandh call has evoked clearly indicates that the people are against the proposed decision of the cabinet to transfer power from Judiciary to revenue department. Mr. Sharma appeals to the Hon'ble Chief Minister to personally intervene in this matter and restore the status quo anti. He was also of the view that there is no urgent need for the contemplated decision of the State Cabinet for this transfer. He also said that litigants of Jammu have already suffered a lot.
The government representatives in the local TV Telecast could not justify the need for immediate transfer of powers from Judiciary to the revenue department. He feels that even the common people of the civil society did not see any utility of the present exercise. Lacunae, if any, could be removed by bringing about reforms and modification in the present system rather than changing it completely.
He, therefore, felt the immediate need of calling an urgent meeting with the representatives of Bar Associations to arrive at a consensus and save civil society from undue inconvenience.
Mr. Sharma also expressed his opinion that on such important issues of public interest the decision should be taken with due consultation with the stakeholders. He opined that government must take the stakeholders into confidence before taking any major decision involving the civil society as a whole.
(Satish Gupta)
Secretary General
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 8th December 2011
In a Press Statement Sh. Y.V. Sharma President Chamber of Commerce & Industry stated that the on going agitation of the Members of the Bar Association against the decision of the Government to take the powers of registration from the Judiciary and to give it to the revenue department is based on valid reasons because it will cause a lot of inconvenience to general public. Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu is of the view that the existing systems should not be demolished and if need be it should be properly improved by bringing in suitable modifications.
The Judiciary and lawyers are an important organ of the society rendering useful service and to take their services away in any way would create a chaotic situation. Revenue Department is no doubt a responsible department but it is not free from the lacunae which are proposed to be filled up by shifting the responsibility from Judiciary to this department. Efficiency is the hallmark of good governance and no one can claim that Judiciary can not discharge its duties efficiently.
Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu appeals to the government that a way should be found out to bring normalcy by persuading the advocates to withdraw their agitation by restoring the previous system. Such a long strike by any section of the society does not speak of good on the part of the government. Decisions should be made by consulting all the stakeholders and not to create a tense situation in the name of efficiency.
(Satish Gupta)
Secretary General
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 1st December 2011
Chamber of Commerce & Industry thanks the business community for
observing a complete peaceful and unprecedented bandh to protest
against the decision of the Union Government to allow 100% foreign
equity in single brand and 51% foreign equity in Multi-brands in
retail sector. The overwhelming response from cross sections of the
society clearly shows that people are totally against the entry of
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in retail sector and that they also
share the concern for 21 crores of people engaged in trade both
wholesale and retail whose fate will be endangered once these
multinationals are given free hands in retail sector as has happened
in all the countries wherever these multinationals have been allowed
to enter the retail sector.
Secretary General Sh. Satish Gupta hopes that the unity shown by the
business community across the county and the sympathy it has received
from common masses will force the central government to reconsider and
roll back its decision to allow FDI in retail sector.
(Satish Gupta)
Secretary General
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 29th November 2011
In a Joint meeting of Executive Committee of Chamber of Commerce &
Industry and the representatives of different Trade and Bazar
Associations which was held at Chamber House on 29th November 2011, it
was unanimously decided to observe complete bandh on 1st December 2011
to lodge strict protest against the decisions of the Union Government
to allow Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in retail sector. Members
were unanimously of the view that if allowed FDI in retail sector will
result in closure of business of small and petty traders, farmers,
wholesalers and commission agents and even the small scale industrial
sector. Track record of these MNCs shows that whenever and wherever
FDI has been allowed it has resulted in closure of local business by
flooding the market with cheap foreign products. Their modus-oprendi
is to provide cheap goods in the initial period and then they charge
exhorbitant rates in the absence of any local competition. The meeting
requested the business community all over Jammu province to observe
complete band on 1st December 2011.
Prominent among those present in the meeting include Sh. Tara Chand
Gupta, Acting President, Sh. Ram Sarup Gupta, Jr. Vice President, Sh.
Satish Gupta, Secretary General, Sh. Prithvi Raj Gupta, Sh. Vinod
Malhotra, Sh. Shiv Partap Gupta, Sh. Ashwani Khullar, Sh. Sham Langar,
Sh. Ravinder Goel, Sh. Anil Gupta, Sh. Arun Gupta, Sh. Ashok Honda,
Sh. Sham Langar, Sh. Anoop Mittal, Sh. Vinay Sharma, Sh. Arun Kumar,
Sh. Kuldeep Gupta, Sh. Om Parkash Gupta, Sh. Sant Kumar Gupta, Sh.
Atul Rajpal, Sh. Satish Gupta, Sh. Rajendra Motial, Sh. Balwinder
Singh, Sh. Ramesh Tak and others.
(Satish Gupta)
Secretary General
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 28th November 2011
Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu strongly condemns the misleading
and disinformation campaign being launched by the Hon’ble Minister of
Commerce Sh. Anand Sharma, the multinational companies and their
counterparts –the big corporate houses of India who are crying hoarse
from the roof tops that the entry of foreign direct investment (FDI)
in retail sector is a panacea for all the ailments afflicting the
Indian economy, that entry of multi-nationals will (1)give the
farmers high remunerations for their products (2) that new techniques
in storing and food processing will come with their entry (3) that
one crore new jobs will be created in three years (4) that inflation
will be controlled by their entry.
All these arguments prove hollow when one takes a glance at all those
countries where multi nationals have been allowed to call the shot. To
expect these multinationals to be philanthropists is like entrusting a
dacoit with valuables and expecting honesty from him. To a naive like
sh. ANAND SHARMA Chamber suggests to visit their malls / stores in
other countries and find for himself how all their stores have been
flooded with goods made from a particular country. With cheap out
sourcing of man power and raw material only the supplying country e.g.
CHINA and these multinationals have benefitted at the cost of consumer
worldwide.
To all advocates of FDI in retail sector Chamber will like
to pose (1) Will not our farmers be left at the mercy of these MNCS
when the sabazi mandis (vegetable markets) are erased from the scene
i.e when these malls/ stores have direct access to purchase goods from
the farmers. (2)In the absence of competitors who
and how the exploitation of the poor farmers will be taken care of.
(3) How can the petty and marginal Karyana shops withstand the fierce
competition of powerful MNCS when they are allowed entry in retail
sector? (4) When the very survival of twenty crores is at stake, how
the generation of one crore new jobs is going to benefit the country?
(5) The 30% rider of purchases from SSI units is a mere eye wash. What
about the fate of remaining 70 % of small scale industries. How will
they survive when there will be no customer for their products? By
their proposed billions of dollars of investment (as claimed by
Ministry of Commerce and big Indian corporates who have their own
vested interests), these MNCS will take out trillions of dollars of
profit from our country.
To know about their modus-oprendi one needs
not have thick rimmed glasses, naked eyes are sufficient. Keen viewer
of Bombay stock exchange will vouch how these foreign investors
have robed India of millions of dollars by manipulating the shares
according to their own interests. The million dollar question is, can
we afford to entrust our retail sector which is catering to vast
masses throughout the length and breadth of India efficiently for
centuries together to these wolves under the grab of MNCS. The answer
is emphatic No. To save petty and small farmers and 20 crores of
Indian engaged in this Un-organized Sector Chamber of Commerce &
Industry appeals the general masses, political parties NGO’S to join
hands with us to compel the central govt. To desist from allowing the
FDI in retail & wholesale sectors.
(Satish Gupta)
Secretary General
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 22nd November 2011
A Protest Dharna held today pertains against expected grant/ sanction to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to enter into retail business by Union Government of India.
It is pertinent to mention that opening of such retail outlets will no doubts may give some rate relief to consumers but it will effect directly and indirectly to society in general and millions of traders all over the country in particular.
In another year or two thousands of traders in various trades alongwith their employees will render jobless. This will have great problem for all the states and union territories to deal with millions of people rendered in jobless. There is acute problem of unemployment in the county. This act will further add to woes and worries in the society.
It will not be out of place to mention that producer will not be beneficial at large. The best part of product will be sold, the remaining part will go waist, causing ultimate loss to producer.
Hence it is requested and submitted to the Union Government and State Government to please not to allow Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in retail.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCI/12/2011 Press Invitation 21st November 2011
Chamber of Commerce & Industry is organizing a Protest Dharna in front of Press Club Jammu on Tuesday 22nd November 2011 at 11.30 Sharp in protest against the apprehensions of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in retail.
You are requested to kindly participate and oblige us by making necessary arrangements for covering the event of utmost importance.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCl/12/2011 Press Note 20th November 2011
A meeting of different Trade and Bazar Associations was held at Chamber House under the Chairmanship of Sh. Y.V. Sharma to discuss the issue regarding cabinet note which has been circulated amongst the members of the union cabinet for opening of retail stores under FDI arrangements. Detailed discussions were held and it was resolved unanimously that State Government should be requested that such licenses to open retail outlets under FDI arrangements should not be allowed. It will render thousands of traders alongwith their employees jobless and the government shall have to face the problem of acute unemployment. Since the matter is of serious nature Chamber of Commerce & Industry requests the government to take note of it.
In this regard a Protest Dharna is to held on Tuesday 22nd November 2011 at 11.00 AM Sharp in front of Exhibition Ground near Press Club Jammu. Members of the business community are requested to participate in the protest Dharna.
(Tara Chand Gupta)
Sr. Vice President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 19th November 2011
Hon’ble Mr. K.S. Pathania, Chief Commissioner Income Tax Amritsar Region, Respected Mr. Ravi Sarangal, Commissioner Income Tax J&K, Sh. T.P. Singh, Additional Commissioner, Income Tax, Range IV Amritsar, Mr. Mahavir Singh, Joint Commissioner, Jammu Region, Mr. S.K. Sharma and Mr. Rakesh Kumar, Deputy Commissioners, Income Tax Officers and esteemed members from Trade and Industry. At the very outset I express my heart felt thanks especially to Mr. Pathania for sparing his valuable time for an open interaction with the members of Trade and Industry.
I, welcome all of you and assure you of our full cooperation as it has been the endeavor of the Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Jammu to make healthy and friendly relationship with the department with a view to help them to collect revenue and to highlight the problems of traders and industrialists.
It is with the cooperation of business community that there has been a phenomenal growth of 27 per cent in the gross tax collection in Jammu and Kashmir for the financial year 2010-11 which is much higher than the national growth level of 19 %. In the current year also we assure you that the collections will show an impressive growth.
Sir, Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu never holds a brief for the tax evaders or the black sheeps in the system but feels at the same time that the attitude of the department at times embarrasses and humiliates even the law abiding tax payers. Sir, it is being realized universally that cordial relationships between the tax payers and Income Tax department always yield good results because traders & Industrialists in general want to pay their taxes but somehow feel harassed and scared by the inexplicable strong hand measures by some officers in the department. An impression is created wily nilly that every trader when visits the income tax department has something to hide which in many case is not true. It is no exaggeration to say that tax payers support the government and the economy of the country and should be held in high esteem by the Income Tax department. I am sorry to say that many respectable tax payers approach us relating very strange tales about the working and functioning of the system. It is our earnest appeal that the system should be improved and streamlined in a way which creates a sense of confidence, faith and respect for the department and the department on its part should try in every possible way to preserve the dignity and respect of the tax payers.
Sir, laws and rules are framed for the efficient running of the system but a thorough training should be given to all concerned to interpret the rules and regulations in a way which do not throttle the underlying spirit. Sir, I have an example; of Late there are complaints from many quarters that applicants seeking registration of trusts / Charitable / religious/Education/ NGO are being arbitrarily rejected. Sir, is it not the travesty of Justice that on the one hand government appeals to the public to lend helping hand to the government in bringing about social justice and on the other bottlenecks are being created for the people who volunteer themselves for the purpose. This matter should be looked into urgently. Another example of wrong interpretation of laws is the denial of tax exemption in lieu of excise duty granted to the industrialists in the state. It seems very strange that the exemption granted by the central government is treated as profits by the department though the case is in court but it has definitely denied the benefits of the central package to the industrialists of the state.
Sir, there are certain difficulties for which the tax payers are not responsible. There is no coordination between the various wings of the Income Tax department.
In many cases the credit for taxes paid by the assesses are not reflected in their accounts may be because of certain short coming at CPC at Bangalore. The late payments of refunds is another perpetual complaint. Once a tax payer has paid tax dues demand notices from the department seems very irksome. Similarly applications for rectification of orders are not properly addressed.
The department should look into these short comings.
Sir, I am not here to pin-point the deficiencies of the department, my simple objective is to request you to make the system efficient, fool proof and traders / Industrialists friendly.
Sir, unnecessary coercive and punitive measures like searches and surveys etc should not be resorted to unless there are satisfactory reasons and evidences for such actions. Even when they are conducted businessman should not be compelled to surrender some amount simply because the survey has been conducted even when nothing worthwhile has been found. There is a feeling that surveys are conducted mostly in one region only.
At the end we will request that when ever surveys are conducted. Chamber may be associated with the proceedings so that the taxpayer is psychologically supported.
Once again I express my heart felt thanks to all of you for being with us this afternoon and giving us patient hearing. I hope the points raised by the Chamber will get favourable consideration.
(Y.V. Sharma)
President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 15th November 2011
The search of Historical Budh Stupa at Ambaran in Akhnoor by Archaeological Department of India assumes great importance due to the message of peace, brotherhood and harmony spread by Budha centuries ago. To develop the place as a centre of Buddhist studies and research has been taken up.
In this connection the Budh Dharam Guru Dalai Lama is visiting Jammu and Ambaran. This step is likely to develop Ambarn in Akhnoor as an International tourist centre and will attract tourist a from India and abroad. Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu welcomes Shri Dalai Lama and assures him of all help and cooperation in developing this Buddhist centre of excellence.
The Chamber believes that the visit of Shri Dalai Lama will definitely serve as soothing touch to the strife stricken state which has been in the throes of militancy for quite long time.
(Y.V. Sharma)
President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 4th November 2011
Today's Press Conference has especially been called with great concern and resentment of trade and industry at the arbitrary power tariff hike recommended by Power Development Department and approved by J&K State Electricity Regulatory Commission in a manner which is not only highly unreasonable but also goes against the findings of the J&K State Electricity Regulatory Commission.
The observations of the J&K State Electricity Regulatory Commission are virtually a charge sheet of the Power Development Department in which the J&K State Electricity Regulatory Commission has taken objection to the in efficiency, failure to check T& D Losses which have risen to the extent of 61%. We in trade and industry believe that this figure is deflated and the actual T&D Losses are much more. The J&K STATE ELECTRICITY REGULATORY COMMISSION has found same with the betrayal of the Power Development Department for not supplying quality power to the consumers even in the 100% metered areas which was promised by the Power Development Department prior to the exercise of metering. The J&K State Electricity Regulatory Commission has also taken exception to the frequent unscheduled power cuts due to the damage of transformers which are not maintained properly by the Power Development Department.
The greatest travesty of justice is that the hike in the power tariff was announced on 8th October 2011 but it was given affect from Ist October 2011.
Prior to the announcement of the hike the J&K STATE ELECTRICITY REGULATORY COMMISSION conducted an exercise of having interaction with trade and industry, general consumers and the prominent members of the civil society represented by even the Ex-Chief Engineers of the POWER DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT. All of them were of the view that in view of the high inefficiency of POWER DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT, corruption and connivance of POWER DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT in failing to check the increasing T&D Losses and the non accountability of the department, there was no justification, whatsoever, of any hike in the existing rates of Power supply. Almost everyone was of the view that POWER DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT must set its own house in order and collect the revenue from the defaulters, especially the government departments and the big wigs whose outstandings run into hundreds of crores.
The representatives of trade and industry have made it amply clear in these interactions that there was practically no pilferage and no outstanding balances in industrial sector which paid the full metered amounts without any hesitation. They went on to assert that raising the power tariff for industries virtually meant punishing them for honesty and making them suffer for the omissions and commissions of others.
The Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu believes in getting this resolved not by coertion but by logic, discussions and reason. The charge sheet of the J&K STATE ELECTRICITY REGULATORY COMMISSION and their castigation of the POWER DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT had the logical conclusion not to affect any hike,otherwise their disapproval of the functioning of POWER DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT and approving the hike at the same time makes the whole exercise suspect and shows wilting under pressure. The Chamber of Commerce & Industry demands that the entire process of hike and its underlying reasons should be revisited with seriousness and the order of the hike should be withdrawn with immediate effect. The Chamber is also very well aware of the inflationary trends in the economy but is of the view that undue inflation should not be introduced through such arbitrary decisions which are fueled by inefficiency.
Chamber strongly feels that any laxity in the supply of power under any pretext is highly deleterious not only for the health of trade and industry but also for the quality of life of general masses whose life is totally dependent on modern technology using electric power.
(Y.V. Sharma)
President
Federation of Industries Jammu
B.B.I.A Bhawan Bari Brahmana Jammu-181133
Phones: 01923-220414
PRESS NOTE INDUSTRY ON THE VERGE OF CLOSURE IN J & K
Hon’ble members of Print and Electronic Media,
We are thankful to you for sparing your valuable time for this press conference and we are hopeful that you will give proper attention to the various problems being faced by the Industrial Sectors while highlighting the issues through your Print and Media Channels. We are highlighting the various issues which needs the immediate attention of the Govt. to save the Industrial Sector from closure:
Power Tariff Hike
Recently the SERC has increased the Power Tariff in the tune 18 to 20% for Industrial Sector . The PDD Department has failed to reduce the T&D Losses in last three years in spite of clear directions from J&KSERC. The J&KSERC is working as an extended arm of the J&K Govt. which has ignored the objections filed by Industrial Sector in which it is clearly highlighted that the gap between the cost of Energy &Revenue Generation due to inefficiency of the PDD Department who has failed to control the T&D losses & unable to use huge funds received from GOI for the Upgradation of exiting Power infrastructure. Industry Consumes 30% power & contributes 70% of total revenue generation of PDD. Industry is 100% metered & generates 100% revenue where as the T&D losses are much less than national average.
It was observed that Industrial Sector has been panelized on account of failure of PDD department due to non recovery of whooping amount of Rs. 1300 Cr. from the various Govt. Departments & not able to reduce the T&D losses below 70%. Further PDD has failed to install meters to more than 50% of the registered consumers.
More so the water usage charges are totally unwarranted and uncalled for which has further burdened the tariff.
We fear that due to steep hike in Power Tariff, the Industrial Units may opt for the closing of their units resulting further increase in the unemployment in our State.
Provident Fund:-
In his Budget speech 2008-09, the then Hon’ble Finance Minister J&K announced in the State Legislature that the Provident Fund Rules will be applicable to the industrial units which employ 10 workers & above instead of 5 workers and above as at present. This resolution was adopted by the State Legislature. Subsequently
A Notification was required to be issued by Labour Department. Unfortunately, this Notification has not been issued so far with the result that new Rules are yet to be made applicable to industrial sector. It may be mentioned here that criteria of contributing to Provident Fund is applicable throughout the country on 10 workers & above, like the ESIC Act which also provides for 10 workers & above.
In fact, a meeting was also held with Hon’ble Chief Minister on 02-07-2010 on this issue & he was kind enough to issue on spot orders for issue of the Notification. But so far no such Notification has been issued which put industrial unit holders to great harassment by the Labour Department. In fact, we have been demanding that the Act passed by State Legislature on this account be given the shape of a Notification which is a normal practice. There appears to be no logic to withhold the issuance of this notification.
Provident Fund is payable from day one & some times the worker leave the Job after few days & we have to deposit Provident Fund which is neither refundable to Employer or Employee. At present PF Act have a provision for exemption to SSI Units for the employment of less than 5 workers. The SSI unit holders are not willing to employ more than five workers due to cumbersome formalities under the PF Act.
The SSI sector is willing to provide more employment opportunities to local unemployed youths if the Govt. issue the notification to enhance the exemption under PF Act from 5 to 10 workers.
Exemption of Stamp Duty on Loan Agreement with Financial Institutions
The Govt has enhanced the Stamp Duty on Loan Agreements with Financial Institutions for Term Loan and Working Capital Loans and also on the registration of Partnership Deeds and other Legal Documents in manifold w.e.f 25th April 2011 due to which a huge burden on the Industrial Units for the Registration of Documents and availing loans from the banks/ Financial Institution.
In this regard, we submit that package of incentives as announced by J&K Govt. vide order 21- Ind. of 2004 dated 27-01-2004, the Industrial Units are exempted from the payment of stamp duty on the mortgage deeds of the financing Institution
We request the Hon’ble Chief Minister kindly to intervene in to the matter and issue immediate orders for:-
To immediately roll back the recent Power Tariff Hike.
To issued immediate Order for the Issue of Notification pending with Labour Department in respect of increase in the Exemption Limit from 5 to 10 Worker for PF Act and also necessary amendment in the Act to increase the limit for the applicability of PF Act for a worker who worked atleast for 60 days in three months.
To withdraw the enhancement in the Stamp Duty for the registration of Documents with financial institutions in respect of loan documents for availing loans of term / working capital loans.
Annil Suri T S Reen Chairman Co-Chairman
FOIJ Cell:9419188586 Cell: 9419183546
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 3rd November 2011
Dear Sir,
A Joint Press Conference is to be held by Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu and Federation of Industries Jammu, at Chamber House O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu on Friday 4th November 2011 at 11 AM Sharp to highlight the issue regarding Power Tariff Hike
You are requested to kindly participate and oblige us by making necessary arrangements for covering the said event.
Thanking you
Yours faithfully
(Y.V. Sharma)
President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 24th October 2011
Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu is concerned with the hard-ships being encountered by the business community of Jammu division due to frequent surveys by Income Tax Department on honest taxpayers without any evidence regarding tax evasion as required under law. The department of Income tax at Jammu is also rejecting the applications seeking registration of trusts arbitrarily resulting into denial of lawful exemption to chartable / religious / educational trusts /NGOs who are rendering services to the society as per their aims and objectives.
The State of J&K has already suffered due to militancy for last 20 years resulting into large scale unemployment in the state. The central package for the promotion of industry also could not bring desired results due to wrong interpretation of law on the issue of excise refunds by Income Tax Authorities.
The Chamber has decided to seek an appointment Mr. Pranab Mukherjee Honorable Finance Minister of India and Mr. Mukesh Chand Joshi, Chairman Board of Direct Taxes to submit that the Income Tax Authorities presently posted at Jammu should not resort to unnecessary coercive and punitive as required under Income Tax Act and the authorities should not arbitrarily reject registration of trusts and societies.
Chamber further demands that whenever surveys are required to be done under law, Chamber should be associated with the process so that harassment to the members of business community is avoided.
(Y.V. Sharma)
President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 22th October 2011
In connection with some complaints from different members of Chamber of Commerce & Industry regarding Commercial tax department a delegation led by Sh. Y.V. Sharma President CCI called upon Sh. R.K. Koul Additional Commissioner VAT and discussed all the problems regarding seizure of document, under valuation and other problems in detail. Mr. Koul gave very patient hearing to all problems and assured that the officers of Commercial tax department will always be facilitators to the dealers. He further assured that he himself is of the firm opinion that any dealer should not face any type of harassment at the hands of the officers of the Commercial tax department. He was kind enough to issue instructions to all the concerned CTO's to be friendly with dealers and not to disturb the trade during these festive days.
Certain cases which were pending in the department un-disposed were disposed off and the document were released. The delegation was comprised of Sh. Tara Chand , Sr. Vice President CCI and Sh. Deepak Aggarwal Treasurer CCI.
(Tara Chand Gupta)
Sr. Vice President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 14th October 2011
Mr. Samuel Charnawsky Economic Officer and Madam Nisha Rajan Economic specialist from American Embassy New Delhi visited Chamber Office. They were received by Sh. Y.V. Sharma, President along with Office Bearers. They interacted with Chamber to find out the ways and means to invest in the state for over all growth in trade and industry in present challenging situation. The issue was discussed comprehensively to work in the field of tourism and power generation and IT Sector and to bring heavy industry in the state. The visiting officers were convinced that there is no doubt great potential to promote tourism in all the three regions of the state. Many ways and means were discussed among the visiting officers and office bearers. Trade on LOC was also discussed and we suggested to increase the number of items for LOC trade being conducted at present points and besides this to start Trade via Suchetgarh-Sialkot Border. They were also convinced that there is potential and availability of water potential in the state to utilize for power generation.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 10th October 2011
Chamber of Commerce & Industry expresses its deep sense of anguish and concern on the arbitrary power hike introduced by PDD with effect from October 1, 2011.
It is well known that PDD approached State Electricity Regulatory Commission with the petition to hike the tariff. The State Electricity Regulatory Commission did not find any justification in the petition of PDD and gave very strict remarks on the inefficiency, lack of accountability and the rampant corruption prevalent in the department. The authority failed to see any reason for the in-ability of the department to check the T&D Losses to the extent of 60% which is highest in the country. It is most important and pertinent to control T&D Losses due to old infrastructure and poor machinery which needs replacement and the government does not take any step for its remedy. The argument of the department of hostile environment / conditions was brushed away by the authority by citing the example of HP with similar conditions but with much less T&D losses. It found fault with the poor infrastructure, the bad upkeep of the transmission system, the willful negligence of official of PDD and their collision with theft of the power without any accountability.
The authority could also not find any justification in frequent, unscheduled long cuts in areas where electronic meters have been fitted especially when the department had assured that there will be no power cuts in the metered areas. The agency also castigated the department for not fitting the meters in all the areas of the state.
Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu has always pleaded uninterrupted quality by power supply to business and industrial houses because they pay maximum revenue which form the backbone of the states economy. It is regrettable that despite various pleas of the Chamber to correct the power supply to whole trading community in general and Warehouse and Nehru Market which is the hub of the whole Sale trade in the region in particular, nothing has been done so far.
The Chamber feels that businessmen and Industrialists bear the brunt of all the laws, rules and regulations of the government even on small flaws and omissions while trying to make their both ends meet. The recent hike of 20% for trade and industry is bound to trouble all commercial activities in the state which will produce a cycle of high inflation and rising cost of essential items for the masses. This concern of power tariff hike has been highlighted through editorials in leading Dailies of the state.
Chamber therefore appeals to the government to pay heed to the concern of the people as large and withdrawn this order without any further delay.
(Y.V. Sharma)
President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ//12/2011 Press Note 8th October 2011
Chamber expresses its deep concern on the steep hike in the Rate of Power tariff especially in Commercial and Industrial sector. The hike of 15% in the industrial sector when taken alongwith duty amounts to almost 19% hike which is going to tell heavy upon the industrial units who are already suffering on account of various factors. This hike will definitely decelerate the industrial activity. It is also to be pointed out that Commercial sector will also feel the burden of this hike which will make the shopkeepers, traders and service providers to tighten their belts and resort to cost cuttings measures like retrenchment of workers. The trade & industry are reeling under the burden of recent petrol hike & increase in the interest rates by the Government of India. There already exists an acute cash crunch in the market and the ongoing festival season is dull and not generating usual business. The steep power hike at this juncture will not only add to the miseries but adversely effect the businesses.
Chamber has made pleas in various meetings held with the PDD Authorities, J&K State Electricity Regulatory Commission & J&K Power Development Department that showing losses in transmission and distribution to the extent of 65 to 70 % makes the budget of the power sector go hay wire. It was emphasized in the meetings that these transmission and distribution losses are required to be brought down and pilferage in the power supply should be plugged and the areas which are non-metered have to be metered at faster rate and the theft of power has to be made accountable. Chamber has on various occasions even in the meeting with the Hon’ble Chief Minister made the request that the need of the hour is to improve upon the system than to burden the power tariff payers. It has been observed that whenever the hike in the rates of power occur it is the honest tariff payers who are effected. Incentives provided to the Industry are neutralized. Chamber makes a strong plea to the government that such hikes have not to be resorted till the system of Power Supply becomes efficient and fool proof.
(Y.V-Sharma)
President
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 22nd September 2011
Chamber of Commerce & Industry expresses its grave concern and anxiety on the sudden spurt in the rates of Bank Charges in the shape of stamp duty resulting major burden on the prospective loanees who intend to mortgage their property to get loans from the banks. Chamber is of the opinion that mostly those people who intend to take loans from the banks are the people with meager means, who are out to start new ventures and take the help of the banks but instead they are burdened with excessive bank charges as compared to the rates which were prevalent only a few month back. These exorbitant rates are said to be prevalent in the state of J&K only. D.P note which was being prepared with Rs. 2/- is now being prepared with Rs. 10/-, the agreement which was previously being done with Rs. 20/- is now being done with Rs. 100/-, equitable mortgage which was previously valid on the plain paper is now been done at a cost of .25% of the value, guarantee is being charged Rs. 500/- as compared to Rs. 40/- earlier, Indemnity bond is being charged Rs. 500/- as compared to Rs. 40/- earlier, Partnership deed is being prepared on the stamp paper of Rs. 1000/- as compared to Rs. 50/- earlier. On the top of it banks are charging .5% additional charges on the value of loan in the shape of stamp duty. All these hikes have caused lot of resentment among the business community at large.
Chamber appeals to the department of Finance J&K State to kindly look into this aspect and manage to bring down the bank charges on the loans which are going to be taken by the general public. Chamber will like to put on record that various efforts of the government to generate self employment will involve taking loans from the banks and the particular hike in the bank charges will unnecessarily burden the prospective loanees. Chamber appeals to the government to act speedily on this un-reasonable hike in the bank charges.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 21st September 2011
The Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu invited MLA’s and MLCs from Jammu province alongwith representatives of trade and industry and eminent citizens.
Addressing the gathering Sh. Y.V. Sharma, President Chamber of Commerce & Industry informed the audience that the aim of calling the meeting was to request the legislators to rise above their political affiliations and forge unity to redress the grievances and the problem of the region.
In this connection Mr. Sharma reminded the audience that an exercise had been done to invite all the Hon’ble Ministers of the Jammu region with the same aim. He informed the audience that all the Ministers of the Jammu Province had assured the Chamber that they would definitely work for getting all the problems of Jammu solved.
Mr. Sharma in his detailed presentations highlighted the various problems of Jammu region, pending projects in Jammu and the position of political backs stage in the region. He also called upon the legislatures to form a joint front to fight for the rights of the Jammu region and present a forceful position before the government.
Mr. Sharma assured the legislators that Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu which was an elected representative body of the Civil Society in general and of trade and industry in particular was ready to cooperate with them and provide a platform for the purpose.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 17th September 2011
FDI in Retail Trade
A meeting of the trading community was held under the Presidentship of Sh. Y.V. Sharma at Chamber House to discuss the FDI in Retail Trade which if approved by the central government will invade our country as well as our state. The issue was discussed in length and breadth in the meeting. Members expressed their grave concern on the prospect of FDI in retail sector and were of the unanimous opinion that opening of FDI in retail sector will be harmful to the retail trade and traders. In our state more than 60-70% are small and micro traders who will perish with the invasion of multinationals in the retail
The retail business in the country is the back bone of the economy. More than 10 crore of people are engaged in retail trade. Business worth 20 lacs crores of Rupees which forms 14% GDP of the country is conducted annually. It is one of the most important sectors for creation of employment after agriculture. We are of the opinion that the economy of the J&K State depends on small and medium trade. Chamber is of the firm opinion that if permission is granted to FDI in retail sector, it will result in destruction of retail trade in our region and will rendered thousands of people jobless.
Chamber of Commerce & Industry appeals to the Union Government to reconsider the whole issue. A meeting of the traders from all over the country was held in Delhi under aegis of Confederation of All India Traders. Participants expressed their grave concern on the haste being exhibited in allowing FDI in retail and strongly registered their protest against such move by central government and asked the government to initiate public debate on the merits and demerits of FDI in Retail sector.
Chamber of Commerce & Industry appeals to the state government to take cognizance of concern of the trading community of our state and desist from allowing FDI in Retail Sector in our state.
(Manish Gupta)
Secretary
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 1st September 2011
In a Press Note Sh. Y.V. Sharma President Chamber of Commerce & Industry expressed strong resentment with the working of BSNL Mobile facility. Mr. Sharma explained in detail that the working of Mobile Telephone System under BSNL is quite out of gear. Even after continuous efforts one can not contact the desired Mobile Number due to snags, hurdles or breakups in the network system. This puts all the mobile users in a very grave and tense situation when they can not talk to the desired people. It is unfortunate, said Mr. Sharma, that the premier mobile services provider is complacent about its working while the private players in the field are doing comparably efficient work. This reflects very poorly on a prestigious body like BSNL which should be responsive and accountable to all the mobile users.
Mr. Sharma appealed to the BSNL authorities to set their house in order and make their services the best in the field. If BSNL does not provide services as expected from it and keep the users as helpless hostages to the system it will loose its creditability and will suffer great in consequence, opined Mr. Sharma.
(Satish Gupta)
Secretary General
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 30th August 2011
Chamber of Commerce & Industry appeals to the Government to take immediate steps to put the Abhinav Theatre in shape to cater to the needs of the people. It has to be immediately renovated. Chamber on various occasions took up this issue with Hon’ble Chief Minister and the Chief Minister has on all those occasions assured that this will be taken up and the needful be done.
Chamber supports the concern expressed by the Duggar Manch while staging a protest for the renovation and complete over-hauling of the Abhinav Theatre.
(Satish Gupta)
Secretary General
Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Regd.)
O.B-31- Rail Head Complex Jammu
Phones: 0191-2472255, 2472266
CCJ/12/2011 Press Note 28th August 2011
In a special meeting of Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu under the Presidentship of Sh. Y.V. Sharma, the Chamber expresses its deep sense of relief and satisfaction over the resolution of impasse between the government and the civil society led by the Gandhian social activist Sh. Anna Hazare. The mess and the confusion created by the aggressive stances of both the sides created a situation which was dangerous for the future of the nation and the security of the nation.
It goes without saying that we are the biggest democracy in the world based on the principles of secularism, socialism and equitable distribution of national wealth. But despite the rising economic growth, corruption, unemployment and the rising cost of living put a question mark on the governance of the country. The suppressed anger of the majority of the masses found a strong rallying point behind Sh. Anna Hazare. It is heartening to note that the government which dithered in the beginning ultimately perceived the sense of the country and adopted a conciliatory approach to placate Sh. Anna Hazare and agreed to most of his demands for making a strong LOKPAL. In this effort the government did well to take the entire elected representatives with it to show that the country was serious to put a curb on the growing corruption at all levels of administration.
The government has learnt a lesson from the happenings of last 15 days and should tighten up the administration so that no extra Parliamentary forces are given an opportunity to exploit the situation. It is the duty of the government to prove that the democratic institution in the country are efficient enough to solve all the problems. Chamber of Commerce & Industry Jammu praises both the government and Team Anna for saving the country from anarchy.
