The National Traders’ Welfare Board, in a recent meeting in New Delhi, highlighted the significance of the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign to support local industries and boost the sale of domestically produced goods. They announced the launch of the ‘Swadeshi Sankalp Daud’ from January 12 to 23, aiming to encourage people nationwide to embrace Swadeshi principles in both production and consumption.
Board Chairman Sunil J. Singhi underscored the importance of digital transformation in the retail sector. He urged small traders to utilize platforms like the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to broaden their market reach and increase income opportunities. The Board also discussed upcoming policies focusing on traders’ welfare, including capacity building, financial aid, social security measures, market connections, and transparent grievance redressal systems.
The chairman reiterated the Board’s commitment to ensuring the competitiveness, security, and prosperity of traders in the changing economic scenario. Joint Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Sanjiv, emphasized the role of the retail trade sector in India’s economy. He encouraged members to raise awareness about the Board’s initiatives and engage in virtual interactive sessions to promote them effectively.
Chairman Sunil briefed the Board on the latest Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms and their positive impact on traders and consumers. He mentioned the “GST Bachat Utsav” campaign led by traders nationwide, expressing their support for the transformative GST reforms initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The government’s dedication to fostering a favorable business environment through streamlined procedures, reduced compliance burdens, financial aid, and enhanced infrastructure was also reaffirmed.
The meeting saw the participation of non-official members from various trade associations and States, along with ex-officio members from nine Ministries and Departments of the Government of India.
