JAMMU, Aug 23: Deepak Gupta, Convener, Industries Cell, BJP Jammu & Kashmir, today expressed serious concern over the increase in power tariff for industrial consumers, stating that the reported 10% tariff hike and nearly three-fold increase in demand charges will significantly increase the cost of production for industries in the UT.
Deepak said, “At a time when the government is talking about attracting investment and promoting industrial growth, such a steep increase in the cost of power is a matter of serious concern. Electricity is a fundamental input for industry, and this additional burden will directly affect the competitiveness and viability of our industrial units.”
He said the government must simultaneously work towards reducing the cost of doing business and improving industrial infrastructure if J&K is to compete with neighbouring industrial states.
Welcoming the Central Government’s BHAVYA scheme, Deepak said the programme provides a major opportunity for Jammu & Kashmir to create modern, investment-ready and plug-and-play industrial infrastructure, with financial support of up to ₹1 crore per acre for eligible industrial infrastructure development.
“BHAVYA can be a game changer for J&K. The UT Government must proactively utilise this opportunity to develop our existing industrial estates and create world-class infrastructure for entrepreneurs.”
Deepak, however, stressed that investors who have already submitted their proposals and paid the prescribed land premium must be given priority while developing industrial estates under BHAVYA, subject to applicable eligibility criteria.
“Those investors who have already committed their capital and paid the premium cannot be made to wait indefinitely or asked to start the process afresh. If new industrial infrastructure is being created under BHAVYA, such existing applicants should be appropriately accommodated in these estates.”
He said this would also help address the growing trust deficit among investors.
“The Department of Industries must understand that investor confidence is built by honouring commitments. Entrepreneurs who have already paid premium and are waiting for possession need certainty, not another round of assurances.”
Deepak demanded that the UT Government prepare a time-bound plan for utilisation of BHAVYA in J&K, including identification of industrial estates, infrastructure development timelines and a clear mechanism for accommodating eligible investors who have already paid their premium.
“J&K needs an industrial policy based on confidence, competitiveness and timely delivery. Power costs must be rationalised, industrial infrastructure must be developed and investors who have already committed their money must be protected. Investment follows confidence, and confidence follows delivery.”