The Hindu Business Line : New Govt in AP should focus on SSIs, agri sector: Chambers

NOTWITHSTANDING the rout of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in the elections to the State Assembly, trade and industry in the State expects continuity in economic policies.

It, however, also feels that that a special focus on the SSIs and agricultural sectors is necessary.

The general perception of industry bodies is that the TDP Government, which was in the forefront in implementing economic and power sector reforms, had largely neglected the SSI sector.

"Economic policies should continue. We are interested in a stable Government and policies to drive economic growth," said Mr S.S.R. Koteswara Rao, President of the Federation of Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FAPCCI).

He said that the Government must improve the SSI package to prevent sick SSIs going out of business. The focus should also be on agriculture and agro-based industries. The CII has called for equal emphasis on agriculture and industry.

Mr Ramesh Datla, Chairman of CII (AP), said that the chambers would continue its association with the State Government to make Andhra Pradesh an attractive destination for investments.

The Federation of Andhra Pradesh Small Industries Association (FAPSIA) said that the condition of SSIs in the State is pathetic. "Of the 1.2 lakh SSI units in the State, 40 per cent have fallen sick," said Mr S.S. Raju, President of the federation.

Many industrial estates in the State have become industrial slums. They need cosmetic treatment, he added. The body has also called for revamp of the Industries Department. "A separate Secretary for SSIs should be appointed."

Mr Raju also called for revision of labour laws in order to make the SSI sector more competitive in the liberalised era.

Mr B.V. Rama Rao, President of Federation of Andhra Pradesh Industries (FAPI), alleged that the previous Government neglected rural areas, farmers and SSIs.

He hoped that the new Government would give due importance to the SSI sector. He also wanted the Government to take measures that instil confidence that there would be a continuation in economic policies.

Mr G. Jayaraman, Chairman of the AP chapter of All-India Manufacturers' Association (AIMO), saw a thrust on power and agricultural sectors by the incumbent Congress Government.

"If the agricultural sector grows, agro-based industries will grow. Development of power sector will strengthen manufacturing."

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