SRINAGAR, Dec 21: Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Peoples Democratic Party President Mehbooba Mufti, on Saturday voiced serious concerns over the proposed 28 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) hike on handicrafts, warning of dire consequences for J&K’s most vital industries.
There is widespread fear among the people about the proposed GST hike, which they feel will hit the Kashmiri craft. The 55th GST Council meeting, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is underway in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
Mufti highlighted the critical role of handicrafts and horticulture in sustaining Kashmir’s economy and identity, especially during challenging times.
“Kashmir’s handicrafts are not just an industry; they represent our culture and capital. By proposing a 28 percent GST, we are pushing this sector towards destruction,” Mufti told reporters in Srinagar.
She criticized the lack of government intervention, pointing out that handicrafts, alongside horticulture, have been lifelines for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. She said unplanned developmental work was being done on the horticulture land.
“These two industries have kept Kashmir alive during difficult times. If handicrafts and horticulture industries collapse, what will be left for us? Will we only rely on tourism?” she questioned.
Mufti appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take urgent measures to protect the handicrafts sector, emphasizing its significance for the livelihoods of countless artisans and economic stability.
“You have 50 MLAs, a majority ( in the Assembly), and 3 MPs including Ladakh. So please, for God’s sake, tell us, who is being settled in satellite towns? Tell us, what are you doing to save our industry of horticulture? Now there is a talk of a 28 percent GST hike on handicrafts,” Mufti said.
She asked Omar as to what step the government was taking to save this industry.
The former chief minister also raised concerns that the central government’s policies seem to push Jammu and Kashmir’s economy into dependence solely on tourism and destroy horticulture and handicrafts industry, a move she warned could have long-term adverse effects.
She hoped that CM Omar would remove the fears in the minds of the people of J&K. (Agencies)
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