Chandigarh: Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday said the Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit was receiving an “overwhelming response” from investors and industry leaders, , calling it a sign that Punjab is rapidly emerging as a preferred destination for investment and economic growth.Mann said while the state leads in the MSME sector, it lacks dedicated exhibition centres and often has to rely on marriage palaces or theatres for events. He said the govt plans to set up an exhibition centre with an auditorium in Ludhiana, along with similar facilities in New Chandigarh and Amritsar. “We need to have a proper place to interact with foreign delegates,” he said.He added, “Punjab’s focus is on moving from traditional exports to value-added exports. We want Punjab to emerge as a strong export hub of north India by combining manufacturing strength with efficient logistic systems,” noting that Punjabis had a tendency to accept new things and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) winning four Lok Sabha seats in 2014 was an example.During a media interaction at the Summit, Mann stated, “Investor Summit is receiving tremendous response from investors, which is proof of Punjab’s progress.” He said the Punjab govt is focused on building a development model that connects the state’s strong agricultural base with industrial growth, ensuring greater opportunities for farmers and youth. “Our aim is to connect Punjab’s agricultural strength with industry so that new opportunities can be created for farmers and the youth of Punjab,” he said. Highlighting the potential of the agriculture and allied sectors, Mann said, “Punjab has immense potential in the fruits and vegetables sector. If food processing succeeds here, it will substantially increase the profits of our farmers.” He added that Punjab was steadily moving towards a new economic trajectory that linked its agricultural productivity with global markets and modern industries. Taking a swipe at previous govts, Mann said previous regimes created an atmosphere of mistrust among investors. “Earlier govts used to demand a share from industry, but the AAP govt is providing a transparent and conducive environment for entrepreneurs,” he said.MSID:: 129575848 413 |
