Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 20: A delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) led by senior vice president Gowhar Maqbool called on visiting Canadian Dy High Commissioner, Jess Dutton here today and had an interactive meeting with him with special focus on industry, education and power sectors.
While discussing on the issue of power with Mr Dutton, the KCCI members pointed out that Canada being the third largest hydroelectricity producer in the world (after China and Brazil) can help India and specially J&K to tap the potential of 20,000 MWs out of which only 2500 MWs have been harnessed by giving the necessary technology and finances to tap all resources which will make Kashmir economically stable and self sustained.
They said the J&K has modified its policy on previous projects wherein up to 100 MWs projects can be set up under IPP by local entrepreneur in mode of joint ventures where the majority stake is with the local parties while as above 10 MWs can also be set up in joint venture either with State government or private sector.
They stressed that Embassy of Canada should help to identify/promote companies in hydroelectric power from Canada to interact with entrepreneurs in J&K through the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry so that this sector is promoted.
Referring to the industrial sector they said Canada can help in food processing including agro-based industries promotion. There is great scope of industry connected with handicrafts, Forest based industry, processing of aromatic and medicinal plants and herbs, Pharmaceuticals , promotion of tourism etc.
They sought assistance on technical consultancy and joint venture in the field of environment solutions through proven Canadian technology of converting waste into energy/ power generation; financial/technical support for preservation and revival of wet lands and water bodies in the valley, technical advice on as to how best the restoration and preservation of Dal Lake and Wular Lake could be effected on fast track.
The matter of providing scholarship to Kashmiri students desirous of seeking education in Canada also came for discussion during the meet. They sought help in organizing handicrafts fair/ exhibitions in Canada.
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