Punjab Seeks Special Package for Industrial Growth
Amritsar/Chandigarh, 23 July
The Punjab government has made a strong plea to the 16th Finance Commission for a special industrial development package akin to that offered to Jammu and Kashmir. The state aims to curb the outflow of capital and accelerate industrial growth in its border districts.
In a presentation before the commission, the Punjab government highlighted the state’s industry-friendly environment and sought various incentives, including:
- Compensation for economic losses due to the Attari-Wagah border closure
- Establishment of a Special Economic Export Zone for agricultural products
- Freight subsidies to offset high logistics costs
- Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for the agricultural sector
- Subsidized interest rates on loans
- Tax benefits similar to hill states for border industries
Industry representatives echoed the state’s demands, emphasizing the need for support for MSMEs, improved port infrastructure, better healthcare facilities, and a level playing field through policies like ‘One Nation One Tariff’. They also highlighted the importance of addressing issues like stubble burning, boosting tourism, and promoting the sports industry.
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The Punjab government is hopeful that the Finance Commission will consider these recommendations and provide the necessary support for the state’s industrial development.
