Srinagar, Mar 17: Federation Chamber of Industries Kashmir President Shahid Kamili (FCIK) today welcomed the issuance of order by Finance Department regarding filters on GeM portal for local entrepreneurs but, at the same time, has suggested the Government to increase the local filter cap of minimum of Rs 2 crore.
“It was one of our main demands which can encourage and boost local unit holders. We are thankful to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Advisor Baseer Khan and Financial Commissioner A K Mehta for issuing the formal order regarding local filter,” FCIK President Shahid Kamili said in a statement to Ziraat Times.
He, however, said that FCIK has “reservations regarding the cap mentioned for local entrepreneurs.”
“Rs 5 lakhs is simply peanuts. Local filter cap on GeM portal should be raised minimum of Rs 2 crore. If Govt is keen to boost the local industry, then local filter cap should be hiked. Rs 5 Lakh cap won’t help local enterprenuers who are already struggling to keep their units running after bearing the burnt of unfavorable conditions over the years,” he said.
It is encouraging that Government through Finance Department has directed all its departments to adhere to the order and prefer local enterprenuers.
“The order can prove shot in the arm that industry really demands to survive and revive with local filter cap of atleast minimum of Rs 2 crore”, Kamili said.
He also asked the Government to ensure a mechanism is developed and implemented for equitable distribution among all unit holders in a phased manner.