Srinagar, Nov 6 (KNN) The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has called for advocating an innovative approach to uplift the industrial sector in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

In a meeting with the Departmental Parliamentary Standing Committee on Industry, KCCI presented their recommendations for revitalising the J&K's industrial landscape, reported greater Kashmir.

The KCCI delegation led by Senior Vice President Ashaq Hussain Shangloo shared their perspective on the state of the industrial sector in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasising the need for a more robust and diversified industrial base in the region.

They pointed out that while the region boasts unparalleled natural resources and landscapes, it has struggled to establish a potent industrial presence.

During the meeting, KCCI suggested that industrial estates need to be developed before land is allotted to ensure better infrastructure.It also recommended extending the time for commencing operations of industrial units from 3 to 5 years to allow for more flexibility. The committee urged the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and clearances within fixed deadlines to expedite the setup of industries. The erroneous ranking policy, which links land allotment to employability, should be revised to better incentivise industrial growth.

The KCCI also drew attention to the region's unique challenges, including its adverse geographical location, challenging terrain, inclement weather conditions, limited working season, and unreliable transportation infrastructure, which result in increased costs and reduced profitability.

One of the key points made by the KCCI was the need for a differentiated approach for incentivising industrial development in far-flung and remote areas of the Kashmir Valley, suggesting that a one-size-fits-all zoning policy may not be suitable for the region.

Furthermore, the KCCI raised concerns about the frequent changes in industrial policies, rules, regulations, and incentive schemes, which have caused confusion and hardships for entrepreneurs.

The KCCI delegation included prominent members like Faiz Bakshi, Secretary General, Umar Nazir Tibetbaqal, Joint Secretary General, Touseef Ahmad, Executive Committee Member, and Bilal Ahmad Bhat.

The meeting was also attended by key government officials, including Chief Secretary Arun Kumar Mehta, Commissioner/Secretary Industries & Commerce Vikramjit Singh, Director Industries Mehmood Shah, and Joint Director MSME, along with other senior officials.

(KNN Bureau)