Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 26: Bureau of ‘Research on Industry and Economic Fundamentals (BRIEF) in collaboration with Central University of Jammu (CUJ) and Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), J&K Regional Branch organized ‘Report Release’ presentation, here today. The report named ‘Trading Confidence: A Compelling Case for Cross LoC Trade’ was prepared by Afaq Hussain and Riya Sinha from BRIEF.
The report release was presided over by BR Sharma, Chief Secretary, who was chief guest on the occasion in presence of Prof Ashok Aima, Vice Chancellor, Central University of Jammu, who was guest of honor. Mohammad Saqib, CEO, BRIEF, Rakesh Gupta, President, CCI Jammu, JBS Johar, Secretary, IIPA and Dr Shujaat Bukhari were also present.
The welcome address was given by Mohammad Saqib, who gave a brief introduction about the report. He added that the report was launched by Omar Abdullah, just a day before at New Delhi.
Afaq Hussain, co-author of the report stated the genesis behind the project and gave a brief introduction of all the stakeholders involved. He mentioned that the report preparation involved field interviews with traders and businessmen in border areas of J&K and Punjab and also interviews with the traders and chambers of commerce from Pakistan through Skype.
Rakesh Gupta mentioned that the ground realities and challenges prevail on either side of the border and are going to remain the same until and unless the bigger picture is not addressed by the Governments of India and Pakistan. He added that the Jammu has a feasible trade route towards Pakistan via Sialkot as compared to Poonch route and that the Government needs to consider it seriously.
Dr Shujaat Bukhari claimed that the cross LoC trade is not only related to its economic aspect, but also to encourage people-to-people contacts and bring peace and stability in the region.
The address was followed by discussion on the issues raised by the speakers.
BR Sharma and Prof Ashok Aima gave the special address.
Prof Alka Sharma, Director (Seminars) presented the formal vote of thanks.
Dr J Jaganthan, Asstt Prof, CUJ conducted the proceedings of the function.
The function was attended by members of the civil society, various trade, commerce and industrial associations, members of IIPA and faculty and Students of CUJ.
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