Srinagar: The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) has expressed its deep disappointment over the continued exclusion of its representatives from the boards of all industry-related public sector undertakings, including SICOP and SIDCO, following their reconstitution on Wednesday.
In a statement issued to Ziraat Times, the apex industrial chamber expressed concern that, despite the industrial community’s trust in the new government to foster growth through public-private partnerships, the recent reconstitution of boards has yet again excluded the Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) and the Federation of Industries Jammu (FOIJ). This exclusion is seen as a missed opportunity to involve key stakeholders in policy decisions for shaping the future of the industrial sector.
“Before the state reorganization in 2019, FCIK and FOIJ played an indispensable role in representing the industrial community’s interests, directly engaging with the government, and contributing to decision-making at the highest levels. Their exclusion from the new boards is an affront to the very stakeholders who have been integral to the growth and development of the industrial landscape in Jammu and Kashmir”, reads the statement issued by FCIK.
FCIK raised its exclusion from key boards and high-level committees in a recent meeting with the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Chief Secretary, receiving a positive response and assurances regarding the inclusion of genuine industry representatives from both regions.
FCIK stated that the industrial stakeholders bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and real-time insight into the issues that industries face on the ground.
“The inclusion of chambers like FCIK and FOIJ is not just a matter of representation but it is a matter of ensuring that policies are well-informed, realistic, and aligned with the sector’s needs”, emphasizes FCIK adding that these stakeholders are actively involved in the day-to-day functioning of industries, and their input from the grassroots is essential to shape policies that encourage investment, address regional challenges, and stimulate growth.
FCIK cautioned that decisions made without input from these key players risk being disconnected from the realities of the industrial sector.
“When the boards of industry-related PSUs and high-level committees are deprived of the perspectives of stakeholders, the policies are more likely to be ineffective and even counterproductive as witnessed over past many years now”, stated FCIK.
The chamber reminded that equally important was the necessity of evaluating the performance of these industry-related PSUs in a fair, transparent, and constructive manner.
“SICOP and SIDCO, as key players in the industrial landscape, have significant influence over the development of industrial infrastructure and the provision of vital services to industries. However, their effectiveness and performance must be scrutinized critically to ensure that they are fulfilling their roles and responsibilities to the highest standards”, reads FCIK statement.
FCIK has demanded the immediate restoration of FCIK and FOIJ representation on the Boards of Directors of industry-related PSUs and high-level decision-making committees.
“These organizations are not only crucial for helping in collaboration, transparency and accountability of the sponsoring department but engaging with them directly is crucial for creating an environment that supports sustainable growth, attracts investment, and fosters a thriving industrial ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir”, stated FCIK.
Meanwhile, FCIK President Shahid Kamili has personally raised the issue with Deputy Chief Minister Surender Kumar Choudhary and Advisor to the CM Nasir Sogami, both of whom have assured him that FCIK will be included in the key boards of industry-related PSUs.
The industrial chamber remains hopeful that the government will consider incorporation of authentic representatives of the industrial community in the boards of relevant PSUs at the earliest.