Himachal budget has many gaps, says CII

An amount of Rs 21 crore is too small for the Baddi, Barotiwala, Nalagarh Development Authority (BBNDA), according to the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

"In view of the non-existent industrial and social infrastructure in the BBNDA, under which come 70 per cent of the state's industrial units, Rs 21 crore is too meagre an amount," said Rajendra Guleria, chairman, CII's Himachal Pradesh wing.

The chamber has expressed concern that the budget has failed to address the issue of housing schemes for workers in the industrial areas of the state.

"The CII has brought up the housing problem before the state government in its pre-budget memorandum," he said.

"On simplification of taxation, the budget does not meet industry's expectations because it does not focus on barrier management and withdrawal of all types of sub-taxes like additional goods tax and entry tax," said Guleria.

"The chamber feels the decision of the government to discourage registration of vehicles in the state needs a relook," he added.

On tourism, the CII welcomed the initiatives of the government to attract high-value tourism in the state with a specific focus on medical tourism. The CII also suggested for organising Himachal festivals outside the state to popularise 'Brand Himachal' and was willing to partner the government on this.