The Newz Radar
NALAGARH: The industrialists of the Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh (BBN) belt have opposed the Himachal Pradesh government’s decision to increase various duties and taxes on the industry claiming it would have an adverse impact on investment. “Due to the continuous anti-industry steps being taken by the government, not only will new investments be affected but the existing industries will also have to think about lockdown and migration,” said Rajeev Aggarwal, the president of BBN Industry Association. Aggarwal said that industries were the backbone of the state’s economy and “unsung heroes of the economic development of Himachal Pradesh”.
However, Aggarwal expressed grave concerns over the current challenges faced by the industrial sector, which are heightening the risk to its very existence.Aggarwal underscored the significant contributions made by industries, strengthening local and regional trade, generating both direct and indirect employment, fostering innovation, and making substantial contributions to the state’s gross domestic product (GDP).Voicing his distress, Aggarwal criticised the state government for adopting a stance that seems “intent on burdening entrepreneurs, rather than providing relief and concessions to industries struggling through a crisis”.
He particularly highlighted the withdrawal of concessions and a substantial hike in electricity duty, which have sent shockwaves through the industry. In some instances, electricity duties have surged from a mere 1 per cent to an alarming 19 per cent, placing a direct strain on operational costs.Aggarwal urgently called upon the state government to reevaluate its recent notifications and refrain from imposing any further financial burdens on the industry. He stressed the importance of a collaborative approach between the government and industry stakeholders to address the challenges faced by Himachal Pradesh’s industries and secure their sustained growth.
