Ludhiana, Even as the state government has decided to dedicate a session to the textile and garment sector during the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit, local manufacturers have said that such events do no good to the existing industry.

The event is slated to be held at the Indian School of Business, Mohali, on December 5 and 6. Leading industrialists will share their experiences and facilities being offered by the Punjab Government in promoting the sector during the summit.

Local manufacturers say no facilities have been given to them for expansion and further growth. “The government does not even have the money pay the refunds. How will it satisfy new entrants?” said a manufacturer.

Ajit Lakra, head of the textile division, Federation of Industrial and Commercial Organisation, said it was a good initiative on part of the government to bring in investors. “At the same time, what facilities have they provided to us to compete with the new entrants? We are not getting cheaper electricity, the problem of common effluent treatment plants is persistent and the dyeing industry does not know what to do. The surprise visits by officials from different government departments are routine, which unnecessarily hamper our working. Those in the garment and textile sector are not able to concentrate on their own productivity and creativity. The state has no money to provide the basic infrastructure to manufacturers. The efforts of the government should help the new as well as the existing entrepreneurs,” said Lakra. He said the existing industry in Punjab was working under fear and apprehensions.

Narinder Chugh, member, Apparel Export Promotion Council, said many garment manufacturers were not interested in attending the summit for the simple reason that refunds worth several crores were pending and they were not able to sustain their businesses.

The textile industry has contributed significantly to Punjab’s economic growth.

Published On : 22-11-2019

Source : The Tribune India