New Delhi, May 5 (KNN) The State Government had recently set up a high-powered committee to facilitate the industrial projects that were proposed at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2017. The Committee gave its nod to 12 major proposals. 

These include proposed changes in revenue rules, something the industry as well as land dealers are keenly waiting for.

The Committee further acknowledged that there are several genuine grievances that need to be addressed.

Talking to KNN, Mangalbhai J. Patel, Vice President of the Federation of Industries and Association in Gujarat explained the key problems that hinders the growth of MSMEs in the region. He said that to acquire a land registered with the government is very difficult, whereas there are estates that operate privately where entrepreneurs can park their unit.

Patel further informed that one of the reasons behind this is the fact that the majority of the land available in the region comes under agricultural purposes or grazing land, on which there is a Supreme Court notification that prohibits the Industries from acquiring such land.

“The large chunks of land fall under ‘Gaucharya’ i.e. grazing land and for farmers use, we can’t acquire those lands, though the Supreme Court’s order is implemented throughout the country, we in Gujarat suffer more as majority of the land falls under that category” he added.

Commenting upon the Committee’s recommendations, Patel said that though the panel lists many important issues that surround the Industry in our region, it certainly doesn’t address the land norms issue in a proper manner.

He suggested that a separate panel to be formed to look into revising land related norms, not just at the state level but at the national level. At a time when the Government of India is working along the lines of ease of doing business and Make in India, considering the concerns of the industry would help accelerate the growth. (KNN/ DA)