Union Commerce and Industries Minister Suresh Prabhu kicked-off a series of nation-wide consultations with the industrialists on the proposed new Industrial Policy.
The first consultation was held at Guwahati on February 2.
The event, organised by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) in partnership with the Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), was attended by more than 120 industrialists from the Northeast in addition to government officials from the Northeastern States.
In his speech, the Union minister emphasised on the importance of this exercise being done after twenty five years.
Prabhu highlighted that this is for the first time that a policy is being designed that truly listens to and objectively equips Indian industry for the future.
The prior attempts in 1956 and 1991 were driven by ideology or formulated at a time of financial crisis.
He said, “The change in the culture of governance under the current NDA government is apparent.”
“Our government is coming to the industry to understand their concerns rather than the other way around,” said Union minister Prabhu.
The focus of the government is to make business easier for industry, he added.
In this regard, Prabhu highlighted multiple initiatives of the government to reduce the burden of regulations for the industry.
He also talked about the importance of Centre-State cooperation and the need for a change even at the district level.
The consultation was also attended by Assam Minister for Industries & Commerce Chandra Mohan Patowary.
In his remarks, Patowary emphasised the Northeastern region’s potential to be a gateway to South East Asia and mentioned the recent initiatives taken by the government in this regard.
Patowary also highlighted the need for a new Industrial Policy for the Northeast.