Muzaffarabad: If the government gains the trust of the business community, the budget of Azad Kashmir can be increased up to 150 billion rupees.
This was said by President of the Business Forum, Imran Aziz ,Chief Organizer of the Traders’ Joint Committee Tanveer Ahmed Qureshi, , and Chief Organizer of the Hotel and Guest House Association, Sardar Aamir during a press conference here at the Central Press Club.
President of the Business Forum said that currently, the size of AJK budget is 160 billion rupees, whereas out of that, the non-development expenditures are 120 billion rupees. With this state of affairs no progress can be achieved in the state.
He said that the world is currently focusing on the economy as the key to success. India and China are participating in the race for superpower status due to their successful economic policies and strong economies.
He said that there is a dare need to improve the accountability system in Azad Kasmir .
The business leaders presented budget recommendations to the government of Azad Kashmir. They said “Muzaffarabad is our center, and we strive to address people’s issues from here. We have made consultation with the businessmen of AJK to prepare recommendations for the upcoming budget.
They said that the fundamental point is that no substantial efforts have been made to strengthen the economy of Azad Kashmir. It is necessary to strengthen the region economically because no nation or region can progress unless the people in that region are equipped with knowledge and skills.
“If we establish a better government within our state, these issues can be resolved. They also urged political parties to include the business community in their manifestos and strive for Pakistani products. Chambers of commerce should be established in every district, and there should be exchanges of delegations. The representation in the Federation of Chambers of Commerce should be proportionate to our population”, they added.
They suggested the establishment of vegetable markets at the divisional level and catering to local traders. Tax exemptions should be granted for hotels and guest houses. Electricity should be made affordable. Technical education should be integrated with the business forum and run these institutions.
They suggested the sphere of Investment Board Pakistan may be extended to AJK and there should be no political appointments in the investment board. If an investment conference is held, the investment can be attracted for capital investment, and traders should be represented in it.
They said that there is no tourism policy in Azad Kashmir. An immediate tourism policy should be formulated, and strict implementation should be carried out. They said that the most work can be done in IT parks in Azad Kashmir, so it should be established at the divisional level