SRINAGAR, Dec 21: On Saturday, Mehbooba Mufti, the former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and President of the Peoples Democratic Party, expressed deep concerns regarding the proposed 28 percent increase in Goods and Services Tax (GST) on handicrafts, warning it could severely impact essential industries in J&K.
Mufti noted the pervasive anxiety among residents regarding the potential GST hike, which they feel could undermine Kashmiri crafts. The 55th GST Council meeting, led by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is currently taking place in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
She emphasized the vital importance of handicrafts and horticulture in preserving Kashmir’s economy and identity, especially during tough times.
“Kashmir’s handicrafts are not merely an industry; they embody our culture and assets. A 28 percent GST would jeopardize this sector,” Mufti told reporters in Srinagar.
She criticized the government’s inaction, highlighting that handicrafts and horticulture are lifelines for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and expressed concerns about unplanned development on agricultural land.
“These two sectors have sustained Kashmir through hard times. If they fail, what will remain for us? Will we have to rely solely on tourism?” she questioned.
Mufti urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take urgent action to safeguard the handicrafts industry, stressing its critical importance for the livelihoods of numerous artisans and overall economic stability.
“You have 50 MLAs and a majority in the Assembly, along with 3 MPs from Ladakh. For heaven’s sake, who is being settled in satellite towns? What are you doing to protect our horticulture industry? Now there are discussions about a 28 percent GST hike on handicrafts,” she stated.
She pressed Omar for clarity on what steps the government is undertaking to support this vital industry.
The former chief minister also raised concerns that central government policies appear to be steering Jammu and Kashmir’s economy toward a reliance solely on tourism, at the expense of the horticulture and handicrafts sectors, which she warned could have long-term detrimental effects.
She expressed hope that CM Omar would alleviate the fears of the J&K populace. (Agencies)
