Need to strive for “Vocal for local reality to make us self-dependent”: Arun Manhas
Jammu, September 26: The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) J&K Council today organized a Stakeholders’ Meet at Hotel Radisson Blu, Jammu, as part of the 10-year celebrations of the Government of India’s flagship initiative Make in India. The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders for a meaningful dialogue on industrial growth and policy support in Jammu & Kashmir. The programme was graced by Dr. Arun Manhas (JKAS), Director, Industries & Commerce, J&K, as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Arun Manhas highlighted the government’s thrust on strengthening the MSME sector. He said, “The focus of the Government of India has been on the MSME sector and this year’s budget was related to that. The ‘Vocal for Local’ slogan given by Hon’ble Prime Minister has to become a reality, and this can only happen when demand is generated. We must strive for local products, as said by the Prime Minister, which will make us self-dependent.”
In his welcome address, Mr. Manik Batra, Chairman, ASSOCHAM J&K Council, emphasized that Make in India is more than a manufacturing initiative. He said, “Make in India Week is not just about manufacturing in India, it is about innovating in India, designing in India, and building a future where India leads the world with its skills, scale, and spirit of enterprise.” He further added, “We must push our entrepreneurs to build global brands. At the same time, it is important to converge all stakeholders and make the dream of Atma Nirbhar Bharat a reality.”
The session also featured an open house discussion where industry members shared ideas and suggestions for strengthening industrial growth in J&K.
Delivering the concluding remarks, Mr. Bhupesh Gupta, Co-Chairman, ASSOCHAM J&K Council, reaffirmed the ASSOCHAM’s commitment to act as a bridge between industry and government and to support initiatives that encourage local manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
