Srinagar July 27 (KNS): The PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry Kashmir had a productive and engaging meeting with the esteemed Chief Secretary Dr Arun Kumar Mehta (IAS) at the Civil Secretariat Srinagar on Tuesday 25th July -2023 . The delegation, led by the Chamber Chairman Mr A P Vicky Shaw and accompanied by Former Chair Mr Baldev, Co- Chair Mr Javaid Anim, Mr Himayu Wani, Mr Sajad Ahamd Shah and Mr Iqbal Fayaz Jan presented a range of crucial issues affecting the business and industrial landscape in the region.
During the meeting, the PHD Chamber Chair invited the Hon’ble Chief Secretary for J&K 1st Cold Chain Expo and International Climate Summit being organised by PHDCCI. Besides that the delegation highlighted several pressing matters, including the delayed payments to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), supply disruption of Pet Coke to the cement industry, the need for Final Value-Added Tax (VAT) Amnesty, the persistent delays in obtaining approval for land use alteration from SDA, pending cases of Change in Line of Activity after Provisional registration, Revival and Promotion of Kashmir Haat (Numaish Gah), Revival of Existing and Sick Industrial Units, Request for implementation of order of procurement from Micro and Small Enterprises for minimum of 20 per cent in each and every department of J&K Government, Hurdle Free and priority Transportation for Perishable Items and it was also requested to Request for Banks to Exercise Restraint in Pressuring Stressed Account Holders and also the renewal of leases for Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg was brought in notice of Hon`ble Chief Secretary.
The Chief Secretary attentively listened to the concerns raised by the Chamber and provided immediate directions for certain issues and guidance to address these issues. Furthermore, an in-depth discussion took place, wherein the Chief Secretary emphasized the state's commitment to digital transformation. He encouraged entrepreneurs to develop cutting-edge skills and compete not only at the national level but on the international stage as well. He said that it is the right time and very essential for entrepreneurs of J&K to stay ahead of the curve, embracing innovation and employing cutting-edge technologies in their respective fields. Let us remember that our collective efforts and perseverance are key to propelling J&K toward the pinnacle of success. Together, we can excel in our respective roles and become the driving force behind the transformation and progress of J&K.
In a heartfelt conclusion to the meeting, the Chamber Chairman Mr A P Vicky Shaw and members presented the Chief Secretary with an appreciation memento. This gesture was a testament to the Chief Secretary's unwavering dedication, commitment, and remarkable efforts in strengthening the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) through institutional reforms. His visionary leadership has paved the way for a more progressive and prosperous J&K, deeply impacting multiple industries and communities for the better.
The Chamber expresses its gratitude to the Chief Secretary for his invaluable support, and the organization looks forward to continued collaboration and mutual growth in the pursuit of a vibrant business environment in J&K.(KNS)