ICC Jammu Chairman Meets LG Manoj Sinha, Discusses Drug-Free Campaign and Industry Concerns

Ziraat Times News Desk 

Jammu, April 11: Rahul Sahai, Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Jammu Chapter, on Saturday called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Lok Bhawan, Jammu, and held a detailed discussion on key socio-economic, industrial, and anti-drug initiatives in the Union Territory.

During the meeting, Sahai expressed gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor for his recent communication seeking active participation of civil society in the implementation of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA). He appreciated the emphasis on community-driven efforts, Jan-Bhagidari, and the involvement of social and religious institutions in combating drug abuse and working towards a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.

Sahai also congratulated the Lieutenant Governor for promoting and reviving Jammu’s cultural and spiritual heritage. He particularly welcomed recent initiatives and visits to prominent religious sites, including Bawe Wali Mata Temple, Raghunath Temple, and Sukrala Mata, noting that these efforts have been widely appreciated by the public. He suggested that similar initiatives, including cultural and spiritual exchanges such as visits to Tirupati, could further boost religious tourism and cultural integration.

On the issue of drug abuse, Sahai lauded the administration’s strong stance, describing the ongoing anti-drug campaign as a timely and significant intervention. He proposed the formation of an advisory committee comprising key stakeholders, including divisional and district officials along with civil society members, to strengthen and institutionalize anti-drug efforts across the Union Territory.

Highlighting industrial concerns, Sahai raised the issue of pending applications under the New Central Sector Scheme (NCSS), stating that delays have caused considerable stress within the industrial community. He expressed hope that the upcoming industrial policy for local industries would address these concerns and provide clarity and relief.

He further drew attention to unresolved issues affecting the sector, including land-related matters such as “Gair mumkin khad” and complications in lease deeds, stressing that timely resolution would enhance investor confidence and accelerate industrial growth in Jammu and Kashmir.

Emphasizing inclusive governance, Sahai underlined the need for greater involvement of civil society in policymaking and implementation processes to improve transparency, participation, and effectiveness of government initiatives.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with the Lieutenant Governor assuring continued support for industrial development and overall growth in the Union Territory.