VIA Enterprise - December 2023 Edition

SEPTEMBER 2023

A MONTHLY BULLETIN PUBLISHED BY VIDARBHA INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION

VISION To promote Vidarbha as a preferred investment destination and create conducive environment for socio-economic growth through industry and services

MISSION To act as a catalyst between various stakeholders and authorities.

To create harmonious environment for accelerated industrial growth.

To provide a unified platform for policy advocacy at all levels.

To create, nurture and develop entrepreneurship and business leadership.

To enhance managerial and technical competency for excellence

CONTACT Vidarbha Industries Association, 1st Floor, Udyog Bhawan, Civil Lines, Nagpur +91 712-2561211/2554090 www.viaindia.com | viangpindia@gmail.com Download the VIA App

/vidarbhaindustrieassociation /viasocialngp

EDITORIAL BOARD Vishal Agrawal Aditya Saraf Ashish Doshi Dr. Anita Rao Shobha Dhanwatey Mili Juneja Sei Deshpande

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dear Members, In November 2023, India gathered Rs 1,67,929 crore in gross GST (Goods and Services Tax) revenue. The breakdown includes Rs 30,420 crore in CGST, Rs 38,226 crore in SGST, Rs 87,009 crore in IGST (which covers Rs 39,198 crore from imported goods), and Rs 12,274 crore in cess (with Rs 1,036 crore from imported goods).

Comparatively, November 2023's revenues have marked a 15% increase from the same month the previous year. According to the Ministry of Finance, this is the highest YoY growth in monthly GST collections.

Domestic transactions (including imported services) surged by 20% compared to revenues from the same sources in November 2022.

Notably, this marks the sixth instance in FY 202324, where gross GST collections exceeded Rs 1.60 lakh crore.

FY 2023-24's gross GST collection stands at Rs 13,32,440 crore by November 2023, averaging Rs 1.66 lakh crore monthly. This showcases an 11.9% hike over FY 2022-23's gross GST collection, which stood at Rs 11,90,920 crore, averaging Rs 1.49 lakh crore monthly by November 2022. As per the 202324 Budget, the Centre expects its GST collections to rise by 12% in the current financial year.

This robust growth in GST (compared to last year) is seen in most of the manufacturing states, indicative of an uplift in demand and consumption.

Delhi-based Mother Dairy has started the process of acquiring land to set up a dairy plant in Nagpur, Maharashtra, with an investment of ₹500 crore to expand its presence beyond North India. Aiming to expand its presence in South India, the plant, which will produce milk and value-added dairy products, is part of the company's ₹700 crore capex outlay approved by its board last year.

As per the State-wise growth of GST Revenues during November 2023, as shared by the Ministry of Finance, Maharashtra showed an 18% y-o-y growth from Rs. 21,611 crore in Nov-22 to Rs. 25,585 crore in Nov-23.

We appeal to Members to contribute in the form of articles, content, comments on inclusion and exclusions, and suggest ideas to improve.

- Vishal Agrawal President

SECRETARY’S MESSAGE Dear Readers, In October and November, VIA, HRD Forum, and NIPM Nagpur Chapter collaboratively organized a session titled "Ways AI is Changing HR" with David Raju, Head of Human Resources at Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd, Nagpur, as the expert speaker.

Raju highlighted AI's role in HR management, showcasing its potential to streamline onboarding, hiring, employee monitoring, performance analysis, and task automation. AI emerges as a tool to boost efficiency, aid recruiters in decision-making, analyze employee behaviour, and craft personalized training programs. A seminar by the Energy Forum of Vidarbha Industries Association (VIA) illuminated recent transformative shifts

catalyzed by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC).These changes, deemed a substantial relief for specific industrial consumers, aim to mitigate high power costs by advocating for green energy alternatives. French Company, Pernod Ricard India (Seagrams), Managing Director, Mr Jean Toboul, interacted with the industrial fraternity at VIA Auditorium, Nagpur and discussed the feasibility of setting up the Distillery plant at Nagpur. The Lady Entrepreneurs Wing of Vidarbha Industries Association organized an “Empowerment of Women Entrepreneurs with the Support of Government Schemes” session. We also reached out to key government officials and departments, seeking support on matters such as discrepancies between the Energy Policy Revision and the Textile Policy and concerns related to BIOSTIMULANT in Gazette No. 882 (E).

- Ashish Doshi Secretary

Investments and capital gain exemptions.

Pavan Nikhare offers tips for productivity

SECRETARY’S MESSAGE Dear Readers, The cover story for this month's edition of "Enterprise" comprises two articles highlighting entrepreneurs' pivotal role in environmental conservation. Anysaya Kale contributes an engaging article and talks about how entrepreneurs help shape the environment, while Kaustubh Chatterjee offers insights on what industrialists can do to help prevent the water wastage crises.

Our guest articles enrich this issue with diverse perspectives. Samita Singh delves into the essence of an ideal client. Suresh Pandilwar explores HR's latest focus on Talent Relationships. Naresh Jakhotia shares valuable insights on family member

enhancement in the manufacturing sector, and Dr. Tejinder Singh Rawal sheds light on Bihar's caste dynamics while presenting a way forward. Pradip Maheshari advocates for bamboo plantations to curb air pollution and generate income. Rahul Bagdia touches upon the ER Revolution in Nagpur, and Mr. Hemant Lodha discusses how Action Decides Destiny.

Our endeavour is to bring you the latest and most important news related to Vidarbha and its industries. We welcome write-ups from readers

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editions of the 'Enterprise'. Please write to us at viangpindia@gmail.com with your input and feedback.

- Aditya Saraf Editor

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VIDARBHA OVER THE MOON

ECO-CONSCIOUS INDUSTRY: 10 KEY STEPS TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES

Kaustav Chatterjee Founder Green Vigil Foundation Industries, at the forefront of economic growth, are increasingly realizing their pivotal role in preserving the environment. To steer industries toward eco-consciousness, here are ten specific steps imperative for integrating sustainable practices into their operations.

Beginning at the Blueprint Before a project’s inception, conducting an honest assessment of its environmental impact is critical. This assessment should initiate compensatory plantation efforts, nurturing greenery from the blueprint stage that aligns with the project's growth.

Aiming for Zero Liquid Discharge For larger industries, integrating Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems is paramount. These wastewater treatment plants aim to completely eliminate any discharge into water bodies or groundwater, ensuring minimal ecological impact.

Revision to Reduce Industries must conduct a comprehensive revision of their technology, materials, and manufacturing processes. Aligning these elements with eco-friendly practices significantly reduces the environmental footprint while encouraging innovation.

Building Green From the project's outset, embracing green building practices is essential. This approach ensures immediate and long-term sustainability, minimizing the project’s environmental impact.

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Proprietary Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) Industries with sizable workforces must prioritize investing in their Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs). These self-sufficient systems not only minimize sewage emissions but also yield substantial long-term cost savings in water usage.

Rainwater Harvesting An indispensable practice for every project, rainwater harvesting aids in maintaining water tables and fosters sustainability. Implementing these systems ensures the efficient utilization of a precious natural resource.

Environment-Friendly Tree Plantation Utilizing indigenous trees like Neem, Banyan, Peepul, Manjo, Arjun, Ashoka, and fostering Miyawaki forests in open spaces significantly contributes to environmental conservation efforts.

Environmental Impact Assessment Conducting comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments is crucial.

These assessments raise awareness and facilitate the design of effective mitigation strategies, reducing the project’s ecological footprint.

Freeing Projects of Single-Use Plastics Industries committing to eliminating single-use plastics within their projects contribute significantly to reducing plastic pollution, benefiting ecosystems and water bodies.

Embracing the 9Rs of Environmental Protection Adopting the principles of the 9Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refuse, Rethink, Repurpose, Redesign, Repair, and Refrain—guides industries toward minimizing waste and embracing environmentally conscious practices.

COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW: ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS AND COMPLIANCE FRAMEWORK FOR ENTERPRISES HEMA DESHPANDE RO Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, Nagpur The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change enacted various environmental rules and regulations to prevent and control environmental pollution.

Below are some of the significant environmental rules and regulations: Legal Aspect and Environmental Compliances for Enterprises India participated in the United Nations Conference held in Stockholm in June 1972, which resulted in the formulation and implementation of several crucial regulations and acts within India: 1. Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 2. Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 3. Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Rules, 1986 4. National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 5. Waste-related Rules and Notifications made under EP Act 1986 Water (Prevention And Control Of Pollution) Act, 1974 Objective: An Act to prevent and control water pollution and maintain or restore the wholesomeness of water for establishment.

To facilitate the implementation, state and central pollution control boards were constituted.

Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 Objective: To take appropriate steps for the preservation of the natural resources of the earth, which, among other things, include the preservation of air quality and air pollution control.

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An "air pollutant" refers to any solid, liquid, or gaseous material, including noise, found in the atmosphere at levels that could potentially harm humans, other living organisms, plants, property, or the environment.

Statutory Requirements: Entrepreneurs setting up industries or processes that discharge effluent or emit pollutants into water bodies, land, or air, causing environmental pollution, need to obtain consent under Sections 25 and 26 of the Water Act, 1974, and Section 21 of the Air Act, 1981.

Consent to Establish: This consent is necessary before setting up any industry or process. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board requires industries to fill out an online application form and submit it with essential documents like land ownership details, manufacturing processes, anticipated pollution levels, proposed control measures, and the required fees. Detailed information regarding necessary documentation is accessible on the MPCB website, where the application procedure is also outlined. Once the application is received, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board should grant/refuse consent within a month.

Requirements for Consent Application Site plan/index, Topographical Map Detailed plant layout of different processes, point sources of effluent discharge/emissions, stack position, and other documents, including D.G. set capacity in KVA Process flow sheet and details of chemical reactions with mass balance Water Budget Details of Water Pollution Control/Air Pollution Control devices proposed Ambient Air Quality Report (if available) SSI Certificate/NOC from Directorate of Industries Government of Maharashtra

D.G.T.D. Registration (if applicable ) Consent fees in the form of D.D. drawn in favour of MPCB Local body NOC Undertaking on Rs.20 stamp paper or Chartered Accountant certificate about proposed Capital Investment ( land, building, and machinery) Latest analysis report of effluent, fuel gases, solid waste and hazardous wastes (in case of renewal of consent) Xerox copy of Environmental Clearance of Government of Maharashtra or Government of India in case of 1st consent to operate in case of industries/processes requiring environmental clearance.

Consent to Operate: After establishing the industry or process plant and installing requisite pollution control systems, the entrepreneur must actively file an online application to secure consent to operate the unit. The industry category determines the duration of this consent: Red, Orange, or Green; the categories receive consent for one, two, and three years, respectively.

However, paying five times the fee enables the industry to obtain consent for five, ten, and 15 years.

1. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board implemented an auto-renewal program.

Under this scheme, the board issues consent within seven days if an industry fully adheres to environmental regulations and provides self-certification confirming compliance.

2. Section 27: Refusal or withdrawal of consent by State Board. Under this section, the board may refuse or revoke the consent.

3. Section 28: Appeals. A person who feels aggrieved by an order issued by the State Board under Section 25, Section 26, or Section 27 can file an appeal to an authority established by the State Government within thirty days of receiving the communicated order.

Pollution Control For the abatement and control of water pollution, the industries shall provide

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comprehensive treatment consisting of primary, secondary and tertiary treatment as warranted with the influent quality and meeting the consented standards prescribed by the board.

For the abatement and control of air pollution, the industry shall install fullfledged air pollution equipment per the conditions prescribed by the board to achieve the consented standards.

All 17 category industries are required to connect their OCEMS to both MPCB's and CPCB's servers.

Requirements of Environment Clearance under EIA Notification 2006 Certain categories of Projects and activities shall require prior environmental clearance from the concerned regulatory authority before any construction work or preparation of landAll new projects or activities are listed in the Schedule of EIA Notification 2006 Expansion and modernization of existing projects or activities listed in the Schedule of EIA notification with the addition of capacity beyond the limits specified for the concerned sector, that is, projects or activities which cross the threshold limits given in the Schedule, after expansion or modernization; Any product mix change in an existing manufacturing unit included in the Schedule beyond the specified range.

Projects are categorized based on the spatial extent of potential impacts and potential impacts on human health and natural and man-made resources: Category 'A'- EC is granted by the Central Government in the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change on the recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee.

At the state level, the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) grants Category 'B'-EC. MoEF has notified various waste management rules, which are as follows Plastic Waste Management Rules E-waste Management Rules

Hazardous waste management Rules Solid Waste Management Rules Bio-Medical Management Rules It is obligatory for an entrepreneur generating and handling the above waste to obtain authorization/registration under the rules mentioned above. Besides this, it is also compulsory to submit the following Statutory submissions.

Statutory submissions Sr. No. Type of annual report Whether a submission is according to financial or calendar year Stakeholder who should submit the annual return/report The industry must comply with the conditions imposed in the consent, especially concerning production, generating pollutants, and achieving the prescribed standards.

The State Pollution Control Board has the power to inspect any industry and collect the samples if required. During the visit of the

State Pollution Control Board officials, if any industry is found to be violating the consent condition, then the board have the power to take legal action as per the provisions of the Underwater Act 1974, Air Act 1981 and Environment Protection Act 1996, which includes closure direction as well as to file the complaints in the court of law.

Initiatives by the M.P.C. Board for transparent and Speedy Disposal for ease of doing business: Online application system for grant of consent The website and the applicant receive digitally signed consent copies immediately upon publication.

Updated informative website, including hosting of consent copies An online manifest system for industries generating, handling, and managing hazardous waste to track the end-to-end path of hazardous waste Online statutory submissions like annual reports and environmental audits

A CALL TO ACTION: INNOVATING BUSINESS AMID ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES ANASUYA KALE CHHABRANI President Swachh Association Today, I see a lot of uncertainty and unrest among entrepreneurs everywhere, especially the young and energetic looking for something different and new.

As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, limited natural resources, pollution with rising health concerns in all, increasing global temperatures, and extreme weather that are all clear signs of an ecosystem under stress, we need to understand the problem and also work together towards the solutions for a Sustainable Green future.

The urgency of environmental responsibility and innovation for Entrepreneurs as drivers of

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change cannot be overstated now. Today, the role of the Entrepreneur is more pivotal in shaping a sustainable future, and there is an urgent need to address environmental concerns through their businesses and secure long-term success. With the ability to create innovative solutions and drive change, entrepreneurs are in a position to manage all these challenges and work towards the goal.

The impacts of climate change are not limited to the natural world alone but influence consumer behaviour and shape regulatory landscapes and the supply chain.

Entrepreneurs are primarily service-based in the market; they must consider the environmental consequences of their decisions and the impacts as they disrupt industries through innovations and more and more new startups.

The need for businesses to invest in sustainable practices technology can discover an untapped opportunity for growth. For instance, small and big companies can begin with sustainable packaging, reducing energy consumption, and developing carbon-neutral processes.

Renewable energy startups and circular economy initiatives can create new market revenues and reduce the ecological footprint.

Today, consumers are more environmentally conscious than before; they support businesses that align with their values, including sustainability as a lifestyle. By doing so, they attract Eco-Conscious customers and build brand loyalty, which can withstand market fluctuations in the long run. Collaborating with policymakers and industry associations can help entrepreneurs as governments worldwide are tightening the regulations around environmentally friendly practices.

Entrepreneurs must proactively understand these regulations to avoid legal falls (cases, litigations). They can wave and lead the way, offering a competitive advantage.

Entrepreneurs often face many challenges; while the benefits of taking environmental concerns into their business practices are apparent, the main thing that hinders their progress is the misconception that Sustainable practices are expensive and quite cost-related.

From a long-term perspective, a shift in the mindset is what is required. Entrepreneurs who support sustainability are not only

addressing the current issues but investing in the future viability of their businesses and the next generation.

In contrast, companies that fail to adapt could find themselves at a disadvantage, as many consumers and investors demand transparency and responsibility today, with much awareness coming in through media and social media handles.

Collaborative efforts across industry sectors where Entrepreneurs can form partnerships, including sharing best practices, pooling resources, and advocating for policy changes to promote sustainability, is the way forward.

Entrepreneurs can be the drivers of positive change, and even though the path to environmental responsibility may be difficult and complex, the rewards are undeniable.

Paving the way for a Greener hope, A more sustainable world through innovation, collaboration and commitment that extends far beyond their balance sheets can give much satisfaction as today's young Entrepreneurs have an approach with wanting to be very successful in a short period and are ready to step up to the challenge by contrasts.

The Entrepreneur of today can overcome barriers and challenges to investing in the FUTURE.When you look at the market today, young Entrepreneurs hold a unique opportunity and position to address environmental challenges, as Entrepreneurs bring products and services to the market, they must consider the environmental consequences of their decisions.

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MANAGEMENT MATTERS: WHAT MAKES A GOOD CLIENT? clients want them to discuss and decide on everything. They may even go micromanaging in the name of passion or a 'my DR. SMITA SINGH (DABHOLKAR) baby and I own it' mindset. In such cases, Associate Professor half of the consultants' energy is invested or IMT Nagpur wasted into explaining why something needs On the dais sat Dr. Rajan Welukar, the former to be done, and the other half eventually Vice Chancellor of the University of Mumbai gets compromised. and other dignitaries participating in the panel discussion on the topic 'Spirituality, Mental For that matter, one can easily compare this well-being and Career success'. The following client-consultant relationship with any other panel discussion comprised Bharat Dabholkar, dyadic relationship. Let us, for a while, the legend famous for his Amul ads and other consider a typical stereotype of a Saas-Bahu creatives, in the 5th edition of the Orange City dyad; if the selection has been made by Literature Festival in Chitnavis Centre Nagpur. whoever in the family or through consensus by the entire family, absolute trust needs to We do come across a lot of literature on follow. When there is trust, support follows becoming a good Consultant. But rarely are automatically. How common is this? Each we an audience to what makes a Good Client? one of us can look around and find out.

Asking the consultant/ or a bahu to display Bharat explained the real secret behind the extraordinary empathy is common, but in humungous success of the Amul many cases, if not all, introspection at the advertisements. 'It is largely having good other end may need more attention. clients', he said. Characteristics that go into the making of a Good Client, as explained by Let us take the case of a leader and a him and other panellists, could be mainly subordinate in a typical corporate house. summarised into three actionable points: Careful selection of a Growth partner, for When one has been picked over others through a robust mechanism, with complete example, a creative agency Empowering them/him/her with full faith, what should follow by default is unconditional support, as far as it is well autonomy and the bandwidth of the basic Once hired, least or preferably zero within understanding both the parties had initially interference in the creatives or the agreed upon. Discussions and debates may outsourced work of any kind always occur but with a compulsory He explained how sometimes Kurien disagreed appreciative and facilitating tone, tenor and with a certain creative person but still believed intention. that the agency and the leaders in that space knew the game better, and thus, that creative The narrative that came clearly from the went as it was. The topic of the panel panel comprising of veterans like Kiran Tarun Mehrishi, and Bharat discussion was "Building Eternal Brands." Khalap, Amul made a solid case. The monstrous trust Dabholkar in conversation with Dr.Ashutosh products, services and that a client needs to have and demonstrate Paturkarwas, on a daily basis is something that doesn't get processes may make brands eternal, but 'Actions and Inactions of Clients' also have a discussed very often. major role in making of an Eternal Brand. A very profound insight! One will agree there is Most consultants get frustrated when their

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a lot of scope for improvement in this space for clients of any size and stature.The Consultant needs to have a lot of initial credibility. It should display a lot of Emotional Intelligence with 'empathy' and build trust.

The Consultant should be a great Listener by and keep his ego at bay. They should possess impeccable knowledge of the chosen domain, but there are also a few prerequisites at the client's end.

HR'S NEW BABY- TALENT RELATIONSHIP Dr. SURESH PANDILWAR Co-Chairman VIA HRD Forum The evolution of HR started as an Establishment Officer, Labour Welfare Officer, Personnel Officer, Human Engineering Officer, People Development and Communication Officer, and Employee Relation and Development Officer. Presently, a well-known and established nomenclature is Human Resource Officer. The Talent Relationship has become an important aspect for HR colleagues, and it's a new baby for them. The demand for HR professionals to manage this baby has increased.

Talent relationship management takes a strategic approach to cultivating relationships with candidates. It includes the practices, strategies, and technologies used to create and sustain meaningful long-term relationships and connections with candidates in the hopes of hiring them ultimately. I have experienced that 8 in 10 employers report difficulty finding the skilled talent they need. When companies take care of their talent, it ensures they have steady access to a pool of qualified and engaged candidates they can hire at any time.

Talent relationship management goes beyond

traditional sourcing and recruiting, which emphasizes immediate hiring. It is about investing time and effort to win candidates so they shall consider you as their next employer. HR should maintain big data on candidates' details, track their engagements, and maintain open lines of communication. HR should continue engagement with candidates through regular interaction so they can become future employees.

Using talent relationship management has significant benefits like enhanced candidate experience, reduced recruitment cost, decreased hiring time, and, most importantly, lower employee turnover.

The HR fraternity needs a breakdown of their regular activities to engage with potential candidates through multiple platforms available today in digital form. They can initiate surveys to know candidate sentiments, execute changes based on feedback and stay updated with trends, best practices, and technologies related to talent relations management.

There is ample demand for a seasoned Talent Relations Manager to lead recruitment, onboarding, employee development and employee relations initiatives. Talent relationship management is taking a proactive approach to managing connections with candidates for future employment. The goal is to convert these passive candidates into active applicants and, eventually, employees using these tools and techniques.

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NAVIGATING CASTE DYNAMICS: ASSESSING BIHAR'S CASTE CENSUS AND CHARTING THE WAY FORWARD FOR INDIA Dr. TEJINDER SINGH RAWAL Chartered Accountant The recent release of caste survey data in Bihar has ignited discussions about the imperative need for a nationwide caste census in India. This unveiling not only brought to light the intricate tapestry of caste politics in Bihar but also posed a complex challenge for the Central government, urging a holistic approach to address the socioeconomic and political repercussions of caste dynamics.

Bihar's Caste Census: A Model for Nationwide Data Collection?

Bihar's caste census, spearheaded by the Mahagathbandhan government, emerges as a potential blueprint for other states and the Union of India. Despite legal hurdles, the survey provided invaluable insights into the state's social composition, exposing the persistent disparities ingrained in the caste system.

The decision to term the survey as a 'Survey' instead of a 'Census' was an attempt to navigate constitutional restrictions. However, this manoeuvre raised legal questions, leading to nuanced rulings by the Patna High Court.

While recognizing the state's overreach, the court also acknowledged the potential utility of caste as a criterion for determining backwardness.

Socioeconomic Disparities Unveiled The caste census laid bare the socioeconomic disparities prevalent across different caste groups in Bihar. The revelation that certain communities endure higher levels of poverty accentuates the urgency for the government to foster inclusive development.

The government is now confronted with the challenge of navigating a socio-political landscape reshaped by the caste census.

Effectively addressing the concerns of diverse caste groups is imperative, and resource allocation must strike a delicate balance between economic growth and uplifting marginalized communities.

Impact on the Political Landscape The caste census has wielded significant influence on the political terrain. Armed with caste-based data, opposition parties strategically position themselves to mobilize various groups. This prompts crucial questions regarding electoral dynamics, potential political realignments, and the overarching impact on the democratic process.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's accusation of the Opposition dividing the country along caste lines adds a layer of complexity. The caste census transcends party lines, evolving into a societal conundrum rather than a mere political chess game.

Call for a Comprehensive Narrative The nation is now called upon to construct a comprehensive and inclusive narrative that adeptly addresses the intricacies of caste dynamics. The caste census should catalyze a united effort towards a more just and inclusive India, transcending specific entities.

The Path Forward: Data-Driven Social Justice The absence of comprehensive caste data impedes India's efforts to combat deeply entrenched social inequalities. A nationwide caste census could be the linchpin for datadriven policymaking, providing crucial insights to formulate evidence-based policies aimed at promoting social justice.

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It becomes a pivotal tool for bridging gaps in education, employment, and healthcare across various caste groups, steering India towards a more equitable society.

Conclusion: Embracing Transparency for Equity Despite the challenges, the caste census stands as an opportunity to confront caste realities and work towards a just and equitable India. Conducting a nationwide caste census, approached with diligence and sensitivity, outweighs the risks, serving as a

Foundational step for India's aspiration to be a truly inclusive nation. The path forward involves embracing transparency for the betterment of society and dismantling barriers rooted in caste dynamics. In doing so, India can pave the way for a more equitable future aligned with its vision of unity in diversity.

The author is a Chartered Accountant, Economist and Thinker and can be reached at tsrawal@tsrawal.com.

INVESTMENT IN THE NAME OF FAMILY MEMBERS & CAPITAL GAIN EXEMPTION in family members' or other persons' names.

In the absence of specific stipulations, taxpayers would need to seek judicial guidance on the issue.

CA NARESH JAKHOTIA Among the methods to save tax on gains from the transfer of Long Term Capital Assets, one involves investing the amount in another house property. The question arises: should the investment also be in the name of the same person who earned it, or can it be done in the name of any other person? For instance, if Suraj sells his plot for Rs. 1 Cr and aims to utilize the amount to purchase a house property in the name of his wife or daughter, can he do so and still be eligible for capital gain exemption?

Presently, two sections (Section 54 & Section 54F) primarily offer capital gain exemptions against investments in house property.

Section 54 provides an exemption if gains arise from the transfer of any residential house property. In contrast, Section 54F does the same if gains arise from transferring capital assets (other than residential house property).

Though both sections offer exemptions against investments in house property, neither explicitly stipulates that investments must be made only in the taxpayer's name. either section explicitly prohibits investments

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There are conflicting judgments: Views against the Taxpayers: The Bombay High Court, in the case of Prakash Vs. ITO (2008) 220 CTR 0249 categorically denied the claim of exemption to the taxpayer. The taxpayer purchased a house property in the name of his son. The court observed that the assessee had no ownership or right whatsoever in the said property and was, therefore, not entitled to exemption under section 54F. The court held that for qualifying for exemption U/s 54F, it is necessary to have the investments made in residential houses in the name of the assessee only.

The Punjab & Haryana HC in the case of Kamal Kant Kamboj Vs. ITO (2017) 397 ITR 0240 (P&H) held that a purchase in the name of a son or grandson did not qualify for a capital gain exemption. The court concluded that the legislature didn't intend to extend the benefit of the said section to the assessee who invested the amount even in the name of a third person.

The view of the Bombay HC in Prakash Vs.

ITO (2008) was reaffirmed by ITAT Mumbai in the case of Hem Chandra R. Gavankar Vs. ITO [ITA No. 7451/Mum/2017] with the observation that since the purchase of the new property/flat is in the name of the assessee's wife and adult daughter and not in the assessee's own name, the assessee is not eligible to claim deduction under section 54 of the Act. Views in favour of the Taxpayers: The Delhi High Court, in the case of CIT Vs. Kamal Wahal (2013) 351 ITR 0004 decided in favour of the taxpayers by holding that a purposive construction is to be preferred over a literal construction. There is nothing in section 54F to show that a house should be purchased only in the name of the assessee; it merely states that the assessee should have purchased/constructed a residential house.'

In this case, the taxpayer purchased the property in the wife's name and claimed exemption u/s 54F. The court held that for the purposes of Section 54F, new residential houses need not be purchased by the assessee in his own name, nor is it necessary

that they should be purchased exclusively in his name.

The above decision of the Delhi HC has been further followed in CIT Vs. Ravinder Kumar Arora (2012) 342 ITR 38 (Del). Similarly, a conclusion can also be drawn from CIT Vs. Gurnam Singh (2010) 327 ITR 278, CIT vs.

V.Natarajan, (2007) 287 ITR 271 (Mad), DIT, International Taxation, Bangalore vs Mrs. Jennifer Bhide, (2011) 15 taxmann.com 82 (Kar), wherein the courts have taken a liberal view and decided the issue in favour of the taxpayer.

Conclusion: Tax litigation is prevalent, and conflicting views often arise in courts. The provisions under section 54/54F are beneficial and must be construed liberally. The benefit under the section should be allowed to the assessee even if the investment is made in the names of family members using the amount from the sale of original assets.

Although the majority of courts favour the taxpayers, the issue remains controversial. To avoid litigation and enjoy undisputed claims, it is advisable to make investments in the names of the taxpayer only.

BAMBOO PLANTATION IN INDUSTRY CUT AIR POLLUTION EARN MONEY PRADEEP MAHESHWARI Strategist Natural Resources Planting bamboo is one of the best ways to help our environment. Bamboo is crucial in balancing oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, normally most important for an industry. A bamboo grove releases 35% more oxygen than an equivalent stand of trees.

Because of this, planting bamboo is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and help fight global warming. It's a perfect selection for Going Green. Bamboo is a great 'Green Solution'. Bamboo is a wonderful replacement

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plant for trees with its short growth cycle and high carbon dioxide exchange rate.

Bamboo is a grass with 80 genera and over 1200 documented species.

A mature grove of bamboo sends up new shoots every year. These new shoots reach their full size in just a couple of months.

Some grow 47 inches in 24 hours and can reach over 100 feet in height within 60-80 days. This short growth cycle makes it a great replacement for our slow-growing forests being steadily cut back. It can provide erosion control when other plants wash away. It can screen out unsightly areas and provide a noise barrier in the process. It will be the cheapest and easiest way to cut the carbon footprint of your own units.

The Bamboos (Bambusoidaea) consists of 1439 different species. It is one of the 12 subfamilies of the grass family (Poaceae) and the only one to diversify in forests. Bamboo is a great plant for individuals concerned with a green environment. Bamboo is the fastestgrowing plant on this planet. It has been recorded growing at an amazing 47.6 inches in 24 hours. Bamboo is a crucial element in the atmosphere's balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide. A bamboo grove releases 35% more oxygen than an equivalent stand of trees. Because of this, planting bamboo is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and help fight global warming. Bamboo is a viable replacement for wood.

It can be harvested in 3-5 years versus 10-20 for most softwoods or 25-30 years for teak. It can give out a yield of 6 to 1 in biomass production. It is also one of the most robust building materials, with a tensile strength of 28,000 psi. To give an idea of how much this is, mild steel measures 23,000 psi. It is also a great soil conservation tool. It greatly reduces erosion with a sum of stem flow rate and canopy intercept of 25%. This dramatically reduces rain run-off, preventing massive soil erosion and making it earth-friendly. Bamboo can be eaten (new shoots), used in some parts of the country for pickles making, and also made into fiber for clothing; it can be used in concrete reinforcement and can

provide great livestock feed with the foliage being up to 22% protein, it can be machined into numerous forms of lumber, etc. It might be easier to compile a list of what bamboo cannot be used for than what it is used for.

Bamboo can also tolerate extreme conditions that most plants cannot. There are thousands and thousands of acres of bamboo in China.

Bamboo has been used worldwide in areas such as China, Japan, and India. It is one of the most important plants in history. There are thousands of ways bamboo is used, falling under categories such as housing, food, medicine, landscaping, and furniture.

The carbonized bamboo filament used hundreds of years back still works. It is on display at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. There are many reasons to choose bamboo as a source for commercial earnings and environmental protection. We can use species of bamboo carefully that may be used for furniture or other purposes year after year.

Wastewater coming from industry can be used for irrigation in bamboo plantations.

Each small or big industry must plan small or big bamboo plantations to ensure a better environment, reduced pollution, and a fixed source of earnings every year.

If you decide to grow bamboo, choose a professional bamboo nursery that can provide the correct species for your needs.

IS NAGPUR READY FOR THE EV REVOLUTION? e-Mobility in India ultimately developments at the city level.

RAHUL BAGDIA MD pManifold India's ambitious goal of achieving 30% electric vehicle (EV) sales by 2030 is both commendable and challenging. As of October 2023, the country's EV stock remains modest, accounting for just 1% of the total vehicle stock, with approximately 3.1 million EVs in circulation. While the central government sets targets and facilitates investments, the fate of

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rests

with

The critical question now is how to expedite the development and coordination of market forces to enable the seamless integration of EVs within cities. The solution might lie in adopting a “bottom-up approach”, beginning with city-level authorities who lay the foundation for transformative change. Local authorities hold the power to initiate EV implementation, cultivate a supportive ecosystem, and ensure the deployment of robust charging infrastructure through

partnerships with private enterprises. By offering incentives, along with conducting extensive awareness campaigns, cities can encourage residents to embrace the advantages of e-Mobility.

Furthermore, they can create clear operational standards, establish a supportive regulatory framework, and streamline permitting processes, facilitating a smooth integration of electric vehicles. Such a citylevel initiative can set the stage for wider adoption, extending from cities to states and eventually becoming a nationwide phenomenon.

Exploring Nagpur's EV Readiness Nagpur, often referred to as the "zero-mile city" of India, has been at the forefront of embracing various utility and infrastructure business models, including electric vehicles (EVs). In 2017, Ola introduced India's first EV City population

Vehicle population

34 lakhs (2023)a 1.87% increase from 2022 Total: 19 lakh vehicles (2022) 2W: 15.74 lakh 4W: 1.95 lakh rickshaws: 30,676

Total: 3,088 (2021-22) Registrations: 3,954 (202223) Annual EV 2W- 2,522 sales (20223W- 1,216 23) 4W - 168 128% growth in the last 5 months

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multimodal operations in Nagpur, offering valuable insights into the dos and don'ts of scaling EV fleet operations at the city level.

Commercial EV fleets, including 2Ws, 3Ws, 4Ws, and buses, offer cost advantages over individual usage applications and can serve as a catalyst for city-level EV adoption. The visibility of these fleets can also encourage individual users to make the switch to EVs. To assess Nagpur's readiness for the electric vehicle revolution, pManifold, a prominent management consulting firm in central India, conducted a comprehensive survey. The results shed light on the differing perspectives of EV users and non-users, revealing that the utilization of charging stations remains low due to the limited number of EVs, with a preference for home charging.

Nagpur's City EV readiness scorecard suggests a promising EV potential, with robust readiness from EV stakeholders to support future growth. The city's institutional readiness provides a strong foundation to maintain and accelerate progress in the EV sector. Different vehicle segments, charging locations (home, office, public, commercial), integrated or battery swapping models, and public or private ownership will dictate various charging options and infrastructure requirements. Source: pManifold Analysis

Number of Public Charging Points

EVs population

Key Players

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Total: 32,681 2W - 19,316 3W - 11,711 4W - 1,546 Buses – 250

E-2W: Hero, Okinawa, Raptor, Yo bikes, Electrowheelz, Ampere, others E-3W: Lohia, Mayuri, Yatri, Simba, Basantee, Ashv, Kinetic Green, Mahindra, Piaggio E-4W: TATA, Mahindra E-Bus: Olectra

EV Users

Non- EV users

e-3W users prioritize factors like initial cost, aesthetics, after-sales support, range, and brand satisfaction, generally meeting their expectations.

Lead Acid battery EV models dominate 2W (60%) and 3W (100%) segments.

LIB models are gradually gaining traction.

Direct home charging is popular among 2W and 4W users. Limited public charging options lead 3W users to rely more on home charging. Ola drivers opt for a combination of home and fast station charging.

Night time (10 pm-6 am) is the preferred time for home charging. Ola drivers prefer 8 pm-12 am and 12 pm-4 pm for charging at Ola stations.

20% of 2W and 30% of 3W users utilize financing options. Established banks (SBI, HDFC, BOI) and local cooperatives offer financing at an average interest rate of 11%. Streamlined and lower-interest finance options could boost market penetration.

Potential e-2W buyers prioritize initial cost, aesthetics, tax benefits, resale value, spare parts availability, and detachable battery.

For e-3W prospects, battery performance, speed, and post-sales services hold greater importance.

Expected range and speed from EVs mostly matching with current market model's availability Price inflection point for willing mass market purchase of LIB model of EVs stand lower than INR 50K, INR 1.25L and 6.25L for e-2W, e-3W and e-car respectively Existing ICE 3W auto drivers have started feeling the pinch with strong competition coming from shared mobility and e-3W options, which is hurting their revenues and savings. Given strong TCO of e-3W, this market segment is poised to grow very fast

“There is strong need to build periodic intelligence on ground EV deployments at city level, and use generated insights to continuously improve product, supply chain, charging experience, financing, and policies through a bottom-up approach”

Offer Technical Due Diligence for EV Investments Support companies considering investments, acquisitions, or joint ventures in the EV sector with meticulous techno-commercial due diligence to ensure informed decision-making

What Can Cities Do? As the economics of EVs increasingly overshadow internal combustion engine vehicles, cities must view e-Mobility as an integrated solution for building smart, sustainable, and community-centric urban environments. A holistic approach to eMobility, including the suggested measures, can be adopted by cities to promote EV adoption: Develop a City E-Mobility Plan (CEMP) Support to local governments and urban bodies to create a customized CEMP tailored to their city's needs

Conduct EV Education through Training Programs Facilitate education and awareness about EVs through specialized training programs, such as an MTech in EV Technology offered jointly by VNIT and evACAD (pManifold subsidiary co.)

As India progresses towards achieving its EV goals, cities like Nagpur can serve as a model for embracing the electric vehicle revolution. By adopting a bottom-up approach, these cities can contribute significantly to the growth of e-Mobility in the country and shape a sustainable and electrified future.

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LETTER FROM A STALWART

HARGOVIND BAJAJ I attended the meeting with the intention of informing the members of VIA that as I am in my 90th year, I find myself physically uncomfortable attending meetings of VIA, whether the same are of the Executive Committee or A.G.M. VIA was promoted in 1962-63 by Late Shri.

Dhanraj Acharya and I, with the help of many like-minded people like Late Shri. Y.A. Khare, Late Shrt. Tarachand Goenka, Late Shri Ratanlal Agrawal and Late Shri Atul Kumar Sanyal. Since then, there have been many competent and like-minded people who have graced VIA as President. The complete list of such people is reproduced for your quick reference.

1. Late Shri. Y.A. Khare 2. Late Shri Tarachand Goenka 3. Shri. Hargovind Bajaj 4. Late Shri Dhanraj Acharya 5. Late Shri Atul Kumar Sanyal 6. Late Shri Ratanlal Agrawal 7. Late Shri Hansraj Gajbhiye 8. Shri Kamal Kishore Kela 9. Late Shri Ramkishore Malani 10. Late Shri Uttarn Thawrani 11. Late Shri R.B.Jejani 12. Shri Basantlal Shaw 13. Shri N.K.Sarda 14. Shri Govind Daga 15. Late Shri Surendra Kumar Saraf 16. Shri Suresh Agrawal 17. Shri Mohan Agrawal 18. Shri Pravin Tapadia 19. Shri Prafull Doshi 20. Shri Atul Pande From the list, you will find that the think-tank of VIA had changed, as per the needs of industry, from time to time, and gradually, the older generation withdrew from active participation.

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In the formation years of VIA, the office bearers went to personally call upon several entrepreneurs, both local and outstation, to obtain their valuable inputs and present the same to various government forums for improvement of the industrial atmosphere in Vidarbha.

Meetings were crowded, and Industrialists were vocal even with the then ministers. I remember Mr. Homi Taliyarkhan was Chairman of MSFC, and we were persisting in making demands for funding S.S.I. in an open meeting. Mr. Taliyarkhan was uncomfortable with the speaker, and he told me to request the speaker to TONE DOWN his expectations from MSFC. I said NO because the demands were logical, and Vidarbha needed the same for proper industrial growth.

This was the way for VIA to publically focus on the needs of the industry of the Vidarbha Region.

VIA was the only "RAY OF HOPE" for industries in the region for betterment. I have stated the background in which VIA operated.

The main focus was and has always been for Industrial growth, there has to be demand for the products.

Demand can only sustain industries.

Demand comes from the population.

Vidarbha's economy is agro-based.

As such, to create demand, our agriculture sector has to be strong, and surplus funds need to be generated.

With the demand, more and more selfsupporting industries will automatically come into existence, and manpower will be absorbed.

All the above efforts did a little bit in a. Half-hearted industrialization. b. Better Agricultural production.

However, the fall-out was an increase in local demand without a commensurate increase in

local production. Increased local demand was converted into more shops and urban employment and was converted into profitable retail and wholesale marketing.

Now, it is the time for Vidarbaites to come out of their shell and take advantage of presently developed technologies and markets. f their shell and take advantage of presently developed technologies and markets.

Currently, the skills of management and mobilizing capital are not properly utilized for starting industrial ventures, but the same is true for hire. We come across many successful Vidarbhaites who want to come back to Vidarbha.

However, I fail to understand their philosophy. They need much higher earnings than what they presently have, with less workload and expect an easy life.

They do not consider that they will have a better family life, reduced commuting time to their place of work, and be part of the local neighborhood. Lastly, they gain recognition in society.

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We now have SEZ. Skilled manpower.

Capacity to mobilize capital.

Developed Industrial Estates in almost all districts.

Quick connectivity to ports as well as local markets.

However, a Nagpur-based person, unfortunately, becomes easygoing and loses his desire to flourish and attain higher goals because he does not have to fight for his very existence with others.

Except Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad, outside competition is almost absent. This CHALTA HAI attitude needs to be changed, and AGE BADHANA HAI should be MANTRA for growth and prosperity.

The apathy of the members in not attending A.G.M. and throwing fresh ideas and challenges is extremely painful not only to me but to all VIA Members.

I am greatly anguished. Therefore, this letter.

Please suggest remedies.

FRENCH DELEGATION: PERNOD RICARD PLANS MEGA DISTILLERY IN NAGPUR, CREATING 1,000+ JOBS

French Company, Pernod Ricard India (Seagrams), Managing Director, Mr Jean Toboul, interacted with the industrial fraternity at VIA Auditorium, Nagpur and discussed the feasibility of setting up the Distillery plant at Nagpur. Since Nagpur has an edge over other places in various regions.

Mr Prasanna Mohile, India Head from Nagpur,accompanied him and interacted with members.

Pernod Ricard, one of the fastest-growing multinational alcohol beverage companies, may soon announce its ambitious plan to set up a wine maturation plant and distillery in the region to make single malt whisky.

The proposed plant will be the company’s biggest and state-of-the-art facility in this part of the world, with a capacity to create more than 1,000 jobs.

It is important to note that the state government has already offered two land parcels, 75 acres and 100 acres in Butibori.

Besides, in a meeting between the Hon’ble State Industries Minister and the company officials, the state government assured us that all possible benefits would be provided.

SESSION ON THE EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS WITH THE SUPPORT OF GOVT SCHEMES financial support available from Govts under CMEGP, PMEGP, Package Scheme of Incentives (PSI), cluster development scheme, Women Policy by Govt of Maharashtra, etc.

The Lady Entrepreneurs Wing of Vidarbha Industries Association organized an “Empowerment of Women Entrepreneurs with the Support of Government Schemes” session on 30 November 2023 at VIA Auditorium, Nagpur.

Shivkumar Muddamwar, General Manager of District Industries Centre, Nagpur, appreciated the efforts taken by VIALEW to educate the lady entrepreneurs/startups about the

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The Chief Minister Employment Generation Programme (CMEGP), a new credit-linked subsidy program to generate employment opportunities by establishing micro and small enterprises (MSE) in rural and urban areas, has been approved by GoM. It is implemented and monitored by Govt of Maharashtra under the Directorate of Industries. The objectives of the CMEGP Scheme are to establish 100,000 MSE within the coming five years and create employment opportunities, substantially boosting job prospects.

He said in CMEGP, the maximum funding for the manufacturing sector is around Rs.50 lakhs and the maximum cost of the project

unit admissible under service is around Rs.10 lakhs. The cost of the contribution of the women beneficiary will be only 5%. He also explained the eligibility criteria, the unit’s physical verification and project monitoring.

He said collaborative financial institutions are all nationalized banks, nodal banks, private banks, etc. He said after the Bank approves the project, training is required from any MCED or MITCON. He explained the online proceedings under the application process and project approval.

In the Women Policy of Maharashtra, he said incentives are 100% of the Fixed Capital Investment, and a special capital subsidy of 25% up to a ceiling of 50 Lakhs can be availed through the women policy. He further said that under PSI 2019, the incentives provided in the scheme have been categorized for the MSME sector and LSI, special large-scale units, mega projects, and ultra mega projects.The maximum benefits are available to MSMEs, i.e. 80% of their fixed capital investment which they can avail by way of refund of 100% Gross SGST payable on 1st sale of eligible products billed and

delivered within Maharashtra, 5 % per annum interest subsidy on term loan, exemption of electricity duty, waiver of stamp duty for acquiring land (including assignment of lease rights and sale certificate) and for term loan purposes and Re.1 power tariff subsidy for 3 years along with various other incentives.

Earlier, VIA LEW Past Chairperson Poonam Lala, in her welcome address, briefed about the activities conducted by the wing and further said that next December, we are planning for an industrial tour to get industrial exposure. This will be an excellent opportunity to see the working culture of the unit, and interested ladies may contact the office for more details. She further said that in January 2024, we plan to organize a marathon in three categories instead of our annual event, the Fashion Show.

Project Director Reeta Lanjewar introduced the guest speaker and appreciated the Government for bringing lots of schemes for ladies; the Government also encourages ladies to set up their own enterprises and generate employment.

A SESSION ON “WAYS AI IS CHANGING HR” with the help of AI, the process can be smoother and more convenient, verifying employees’ documents, conducting induction training, and providing IDs and access to the company’s hardware and software. AI can enhance hiring efficiency by determining the most qualified candidates and providing information to help recruiters make better decisions.

VIA HRD Forum & NIPM Nagpur Chapter jointly organized a “Ways AI is Changing HR” session on 21st October 2023 at VIA, Nagpur.

Expert Speaker David Raju, Head (Human Resources) at Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd, Nagpur, said recruitment and talent acquisition are the first tasks of HR; from job posting to sending job offers, AI has reduced the time spent in recruiting new employees.

Onboarding is an essential part of HR, and

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He said AI is useful in monitoring employee behaviour, performance and engagement; it can analyze employee data such as email work patterns and detect disengagement or misconduct. It could help HR identify improvement areas, create personalized training to suit each employee and learn. AI can automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks so HR professionals can focus on creating strategies. AI can drastically improve efficiency, reduce costs, and provide valuable information to HR, he added.

Earlier, Bhupendra Shahane, Chairman of NIPM Nagpur Chapter, in his welcome address, said today’s topic is very relevant for industries; looking at the present situation and overall scenario of HR’s perspective, we are a little bit frustrated as human beings are replaced by the Artificial Intelligence (AI).

What techniques and technology will come into force in the future? AI can facilitate human services, but it cannot replace us.

We should be somewhat cooperative and try to accommodate the changes that will help to adopt AI. Suresh Pandilwar, Co-Chairman of VIA HRD Forum, welcomed David Raju and summed up the program. He also informed me about the upcoming training programs on Innovative Best Practices in HR, Excellence through Quality Management Systems, etc.

DISCUSSION ON GREEN OPEN ACCESS REGULATIONS AND AMENDMENT IN ROOFTOP SOLAR POLICY and VIA Past Vice President R B Goenka dwelled on grey areas that need further clarification.

For clarification and modification to remove the difficulty in the operation and implementation of these regulations, Goenka suggested filing a petition with MERC.

A seminar on recent developments and changes accomplished by MERC was held under the Energy Forum of Vidarbha Industries Association at VIA Auditorium.

These significant changes have come as a Diwali gift, bringing big relief to specific industrial consumers by helping them mitigate high power costs with green energy alternatives.

Detailed deliberations were carried out on new Regulations of MERC’s Distribution Open access promoting Green Energy Open Access and MERC’s Grid Interactive Rooftop Renewable Energy Generating Systems regulation changes.

In his opening remark, VIA President Vishal Agrawal applauded the government and MERC for their futuristic and positive step, making Maharashtra a trend-setting state for green energy consumption.

Sudhir Budhey, Advisor of All India Renewable Energy Association, Nagpur, highlighted the critical points on the above

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VIA Executive Committee approved the suggestion to file the petition with MERC. R B Goenka also clarified many doubts among the Industrial fraternity, thus resolving confusion in the minds of the entrepreneurs/users. VIA Vice President Prashant Mohota suggested a framework for industrialists to use these policies to their advantage.

The discussions were held related to the Net metering scheme extension to 5MW from the current 1 MW level both for Individual entities or a Group, Postponing of Grid Support Charges, Green Open access permission both for Individual or Group was amended from earlier 1 MW level to 100 KW etc.

Representatives from Raymonds Luxury Cotton, GTN Industries, Saoner, Meghe Group, Abhijeet Group, Pee Vee Textiles, Suryaamba Steel, Basant Agrotech, Plasto Tanks, Rukmani Metals, Inox Air Products, Bhagirath Textiles and industrialists attended the program in large numbers.

VIA REPRESENTATIONS – NOVEMBER 2023 6 NOVEMBER Shri. D R Bansode, C.E. (Commercial) Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co. Ltd. Prakashgad, Plot No. G-9, Mumbai VIA Few members not receiving Fixed Incentive Scheme as per VM Incentive Policy 23rd June 2022 6 NOVEMBER The Executive Director (S&E) Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co. Ltd. Prakashgad, Plot No. G-9, Mumbai VIA Few members not receiving Fixed Incentive Scheme as per VM Incentive Policy 23rd June 2022 7 NOVEMBER Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji Hon’ble Dy. Chief Minister Government of Maharashtra. Mumbai Request for permanent post of Jt. CEO (Vidarbha ) at Regional Office, MIDC, Nagpur 9 NOVEMBER Shri.Nitin Gadkarji Hon’ble Union Minister Road Transport &Highways, GOI, New Delhi Issues related to BIOSTIMULANT in Gazzette No. 882 (E) issued on 21st February 2021 16 NOVEMBER Shri Devendra Fadnavis Ji Hon’ble Dy. Chief Minister Government of Maharashtra. Mumbai Energy Policy Revision by MERC not in line with Textile Policy Ref: 1 Textile Policy 2023 2 DOA Regulation Amendment 2023 3 Detailed Comments of DOA regulation 2023

16 NOVEMBER Shri.Abha Shukla Ji Principal Secretary, Energy,Industries & Labour Department Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai Energy Policy Revision by MERC not in line with Textile Policy Ref: 1 Textile Policy 2023 2 DOA Regulation Amendment 2023 3 Detailed Comments of DOA regulation 2023 16 NOVEMBER Shri.Chandrashekhar Bacchu Patil (Ji) Hon’ble Minister for Higher and Technical Education, Textiles, Parliamentary Affairs Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai Energy Policy Revision by MERC not in line with Textile Policy Ref: 1 Textile Policy 2023 2 DOA Regulation Amendment 2023 3 Detailed Comments of DOA regulation 2023 16 NOVEMBER Shri. Virendra Singh Ji Secretary, Textile Department Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai Energy Policy Revision by MERC not in line with Textile Policy Ref: 1 Textile Policy 2023 2 DOA Regulation Amendment 2023 3 Detailed Comments of DOA regulation 2023 16 NOVEMBER Shri devendra Fadnavis Ji Hon’ble Dy. Chief Minister Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai Memorandum in response to bill nos. 40,41,42 and 43 of Legislative Assembly No. XL of 2023.

Ref: Press note inviting suggestions on legislative assembly bill nos. 40,41,42,43, and 44 of 2023 published on 22nd September 2023.