DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
Jammu, Mar 21
The much-anticipated PackTech Asia 2024 kicked off today at Regale Park in Jammu, with Mr. Rahul Sahai, representing the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) as Chair of the PHDCCI Jammu Chapter, extended a warm welcome to all attendees. This event, spanning from 21st to 23rd March, serves as a testament to the thriving Indian packaging industry, projected to reach a turnover of $32 billion by 2025, driven notably by increased demand for packaged goods post-pandemic.
The day 1 of the Packtech Asia 2024 witnessed a significant participation of over 100 exhibitors, about 60 foreign buyers and about 1000 business visitors. A large number of foreign buyers and business delegates from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Egypt, Ghana, Uganda, Vietnam, among participated in the Exhibition and B2B meetings with the exhibitors. In his welcome address, Mr. Sahai highlighted Jammu and Kashmir’s strategic position to capitalize on this growth, given its status as a leading producer of fruits. With rising urbanization and a surge in demand for convenience foods, robust packaging solutions are increasingly crucial for the region’s agriculture-based economy. In a notable appeal, Mr. Sahai requested the J & K Government’s support in establishing key facilities in Jammu, vital for the region’s trade and industry growth. These proposed facilities include a dedicated Food and Packaging Park, cold storage facilities, warehouses, and a modern exhibition venue.
Mr. Sahai emphasized that such infrastructure would not only empower businesses but also generate significant employment opportunities for the local populace.
The inaugural session highlighted the industrial policy initiatives by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir, aimed at propelling growth and development in the packaging, food processing, and plastics sectors. Hosted by the PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry in Jammu, the event provided a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation among industry stakeholders. Addressing the distinguished guests, Shri Vikramjit Singh, Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Government of Jammu & Kashmir, emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem that nurtures the growth and resilience of these vital sectors. He highlighted the key pillars of the industrial policy framework, including investment promotion, skill development, technology adoption, and sustainable practices.
Under the investment promotion pillar, the government offers a range of incentives and support mechanisms to attract investment in packaging, food processing, and plastics sectors.
This includes land allocation, capital subsidies, and infrastructure development assistance, with a focus on creating a conducive environment for both domestic and international investors.
Furthermore, the government is investing in skill development programs, vocational education initiatives, and industry-academia partnerships to equip the workforce with the skills and knowledge required excelling in these dynamic sectors. Technology adoption and innovation are also prioritized, with a focus on enhancing productivity, quality, and sustainability through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and research. Environmental sustainability is a core value of the industrial policy, with initiatives aimed at promoting environmentally friendly practices, waste management solutions, and the use of biodegradable materials. By prioritizing sustainability, the government aims to minimize the environmental footprint of these industries and contribute to the preservation of natural resources for future generations.
Shri Vikramjit Singh invited stakeholders from across the globe to partner with Jammu & Kashmir in its journey towards becoming a hub of excellence and innovation in packaging, food processing, and plastics manufacturing. He urged participants to seize the opportunities presented by Packtech Asia 2024 to forge meaningful collaborations, share best practices, and chart a course towards a prosperous and sustainable future for the industries and communities.
Shri Ramesh Kumar, IAS, Divisional Commissioner Jammu, outlined the government’s initiatives and policies aimed at fostering economic growth and inclusive development.
Addressing a gathering of esteemed dignitaries, Shri Ramesh Kumar underscored the significance of the event, which brought together stakeholders from the packaging, food processing, and plastics sectors to explore avenues for growth and development. He highlighted the pivotal role of the government in nurturing a robust manufacturing ecosystem, driving economic growth, and fostering employment opportunities.
Shri Ramesh Kumar called upon all stakeholders – government bodies, industry players, academia, and civil society – to collaborate closely in unlocking the full potential of the packaging, food processing, and plastics sectors in the Jammu region. He expressed confidence that together, they could build a vibrant and sustainable manufacturing base that contributes to the economic prosperity and well-being of communities.
The Government of Jammu & Kashmir’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the manufacturing base was met with appreciation from attendees, who lauded the government’s proactive approach towards fostering economic growth and inclusive development.
The inaugural session was attended by several dignitaries such as Shri Arun Manhas, JKAS Director Industries, Govt. of J & K, Shri Khalid Jhangir, JKAS, Managing Director, JKTPO, Govt. of J&K and Swami Prem Anveshi, Anveshi Foundation among them.
The inaugural session was moderated by Shri Naveen Seth, Deputy Secretary General of PHDCCI. He thanked the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Govt. of India and Govt. of J & K for their support and guidance for organizing this program for the benefit of industry and trade of J&K. He further invited the local industry representatives to attend the exhibition and meet the foreign delegates during the 3 days of the exhibition at Jammu.
