Ludhiana: As the Punjab government prepares to present its state budget on Sunday, the residents and business community of Ludhiana are looking toward the announcement with significant expectations. Despite the recent introduction of the state’s industrial policy, local industrial leaders are calling for specific budgetary allocations to address long-standing gaps in infrastructure, security, and research.Lokesh Jain, chairman of CII Ludhiana and General Secretary of the Ludhiana Steel Re-rollers Association, emphasized that the budget should provide a major thrust for research and development (R&D) institutes. He further stressed the need for industrial belt infrastructure, including improved roads, transport stations, parking, proper street lighting, and traffic signals. Jain also highlighted the necessity for wider roads to facilitate heavy vehicle movement and the activation of CCTV networks installed years ago for better traffic regulation.
Demands for GST refundsUpkar Singh Ahuja, president of CICU, expressed hope that no additional taxes would be introduced. He urged the government to prioritize the immediate refund of GST to industrial units and called for dedicated funds to enhance security, particularly within industrial areas. Echoing the need for specialized facilities, Vinod Thappar, chairman of the Knitwear Club, reiterated the industry’s long-pending demand for a dedicated exhibition centre in Ludhiana. He further advocated for revamped infrastructure in focal points, improved road conditions, and the allocation of funds for freight subsidies. Focus on sustainability, safetyIndustrialists Daleep Khanna and Mridula Jain both highlighted the importance of supporting the “common man” and the existing manufacturing sectors that drive the state’s economy. Khanna noted that aging focal points require a complete revamp to benefit the taxpayers.Mridula Jain added that the budget must ensure the implementation of industrial policies through adequate funding. She specifically called for resources to combat air, water, and ground pollution, alongside initiatives for waste recycling. Furthermore, she emphasized the need for substantial investment in the city’s road safety infrastructure.
