Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 19: A delegation from the Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, led by its president, met Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, along with the Union Ministers for Railways and Tourism in Delhi, to discuss various local issues.
Jugal Kishore Sharma, Member of Parliament, was also present during the meeting. The delegation highlighted several challenges related to the Trade, Industry, and Tourism sectors in J&K.
JCCI President AK Gupta informed the Minister about the unnecessary harassment faced by hoteliers in Patnitop, where CBI cases are being filed against them on unfounded charges, and he requested intervention in this matter. He further mentioned the difficulties encountered by arms and ammunition dealers in J&K regarding the conversion of all licenses to Form VIII, which is effectively halting operations until the conversion is completed. There is a pressing concern as authorities are sealing their premises, and the Chamber urged the Union Minister’s intervention.
Dr. Singh accompanied the Chamber delegation to meet with the Minister of Railways, Information Broadcasting, and Tourism. During the interaction, Gupta expressed appreciation for the long-standing demand to develop Jammu as a Railway Division, which he stated is a necessity at this time. He articulated that this development will not only improve train operations but also create new job opportunities for local youth.
He also called for the establishment of a Rail Coach Factory in Jammu to ensure the survival of ancillary units, which would also provide employment for the area’s youth. Additionally, he requested that a direct train service between Jammu and Prayagraj be initiated on a daily basis during the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela.
While discussing the establishment of a full-time “Duggar Channel” in Jammu, Gupta noted that, although a part-time Dogri News Channel operates from Jammu Doordarshan Kendra, there is a need for a dedicated (24×7) “Duggar Channel,” similar to the Kashir Channel in Srinagar.
During discussions with the Tourism Minister, the JCCI chief acknowledged the unprecedented development in J&K, with significant infrastructure projects contributing notably to the region’s overall growth. He raised concerns that the train’s reach to Srinagar, extending to Baramulla, could adversely impact the business, tourism, transport sectors, and the economy of Jammu. To bridge this gap, he proposed the establishment of a prestigious project in honor of Dr. Shayama Prasad Mukherjee, similar to the Statue of Unity in Ahmedabad, to attract tourists and enhance the economy of the region.
Dr. Jitendra Singh and Jugal Kishore briefed the Tourism Minister on the importance of properly developing Surinsar & Mansar to attract more tourists.
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