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ANNUAL REPORT

The year 2003-04 has been a year of hectic activities. I assumed office as the President of FINER on October 2003 and we have as a team thereafter worked towards a newer and a more vibrant FINER. I was fortunate to inherit an organization whose fundamentals had been set and I took it upon myself to give it a new direction.

Accordingly the Directors of FINER and myself sat for a Chintan Baithak on 15th November 2003 - "a brain storming session to set the vision of FINER."

Consequently we developed a road map, which among other decisions involved a creation of committees of FINER to action various activities.

A new approach to take FINER forward was thus set in place and some of the committees have since performed commendably. In this process we decided to grow laterally and a new chapter - the Meghalaya chapter is coming up soon. The last twelve months has been a period of building the organization structure and setting the stage for take off. We have revamped the FINER Secretariat and partially renovated the office.

The year has been filled with activities and some major projects are on the anvil. I would like to highlight a few milestones which are as below-

Restoration of Sales tax exemption benefit

Our Federation played a prompt and proactive role in the restoration of Sales Tax exemption in the new industrial policy of Assam. The new state industrial policy of Assam announced on 25th September 2003 done away with the sales tax exemption. The State Government ultimately favourably resolved the issue by restoring the sales tax exemption.

Delegation to Made in India Show at Yangon, Myanmar

As you are aware we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Myanmar India Business Club (MIBC) at Yangon on 21st February 2004 in presence of Assam Minister for Industry & Commerce, Sri Bhubaneshwar Kalita.

Both the associations agreed to work together to increase trade and commerce between the two neighbours. The programme was attended by officials from the Indian Embassy at Yangon, Secretaries of the industries and commerce departments of Assam, Meghalaya and Mizoram, the FINER delegation and large number of businessmen of Myanmar.

We took part in the Made in India Show held at Yangon organised by CII and Embassy of India. The companies from the Northeast displayed various industrial products manufactured in the region.

Assam Convention, 2004 at Austin, USA

Assam Foundation of North America invited me at a seminar held on the 4th July, 2004 at Austin, Texas, USA. At a largely attended convention of more than 400 people, I spoke about investment opportunities in Assam.

Protest against ASEB tariff hike proposal

FINER strongly objected to the proposal of ASEB to further revise the ASEB tariff rates.
At a hearing before the Assam Electricity Regulatory Commission on 5th July, 04 at Guwahati, our Past President & Director Shri Abhijit Barooah made a fervent appeal to the Commission not to allow any further enhancement of tariff, which would further jeopardize the industrial growth of Assam. The petition made by the Federation played a crucial role in bringing down the proposed ASEB tariff to a reasonable and considerate one.

Donation to CM's Relief Fund

A delegation of FINER led by me called on the Hon'ble Chief Minister on the 28th July, 2004. We expressed our grave concern with regard to the unprecedented floods, which has caused tremendous hardship to the populace. We informed the Hon'ble Chief Minister that FINER members have been carrying out flood relief activities and donating to the cause through different forums. Leading companies who are members of FINER had been taking initiative to provide relief to people affected by floods.

I am glad to inform you that in addition to the various individual efforts of FINER members in helping flood victims, a sum of Rs. 2,01,000/= was contributed to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund on behalf of FINER members.

We are looking forward to a prosperous year ahead and with the support of all our members I am quite optimistic that we will be able to achieve the landmark in the specific period of time.


Subhash Agarwala
President
 

REPORT OF ACTIVITIES

Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Industries & Commerce of North Eastern Region (FINER) was held on the 27th September, 2003 at Hotel Landmark. Sri Abhijit Barooah, President welcomed the large gathering and dwelt at length on the activities of FINER during the preceding year which was followed by the views of the members. The Statement of Accounts for the financial year 2002-03 was unanimously passed.

Every alternate year being the election year, this year the elections were due for the election of 15 members as Directors of the FINER Board. There were 21 contestants for the 15 posts. The elections were conducted under the supervision of former President of FINER Sri S.K. Jain. The elected directors were- Sarvasri Subhash Agarwala, R.S. Joshi, Dr. Narendra Nath Dutta, Ramesh Pasari, Amit Jain, Sudip De, Chinmoy Sharma, George Chacko, Ranjit Chaliha, Manoj Kr. Agarwala, Ram Gopal Harlalka, Bhawar Lal Agarwala, Madhu Kant Sharma, Sandip Khaitan, Santosh Jaiswal.

Reaction on new Industrial Policy of Assam

FINER organized a meeting of all leading Industry Associations of Assam, viz., NECCI, AASSIA, KCC & NESSIA on 27th September, 2003 at FINER office to discuss the just announced Assam Industrial Policy, 2003. Further a press meet was called on 28th September'03 at Hotel Landmark where reporters from various newspapers attended. A joint representation expressing the views of all associations including FINER was sent to the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Assam.

Meeting with Dy. Commissioner, Central Excise on 'SSI Clinic'

A. Hussain, Deputy Commissioner, Central Excise presided over the first meeting on the subject and initiated discussions by explaining the concept and need of DDI Clinic in details.
The Directors of FINER Sri R.S. Joshi and Sri Abhijit Barooah represented the Federation in the meeting held on 29th September 2003.
Sri Abhijit Barooah welcomed the unique initiative of the Union Ministry of Finance. Sri R.S. Joshi mentioned that the move-SSI Clinic, will go long way not only in effectively addressing grievances of SSI and Tiny sector but also help in making small entrepreneurs aware of various provisions of the Excise Act governing them which will lead to better compliance of the law.

Protest against the move to include North Bengal in NEC

FINER organized a meeting of Industry Associations consisting of NECCI, NESSIA, AASSIA and PINE at FINER's office on the 23rd October, 03 to discuss the purported move to include North Bengal in the ambit of the NEC. All participants condemned the move and expressed their apprehension that such a move would sound the death-knell for industries in the region. It was decided to issue Press statements protesting the reported move and seek clarification from the NEC. It was also decided to write to the Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister in charge of DONER. The NEC and DONER have since denied any such move.

FINER President on Sahara News

Sri Subhash Agarwala, President, FINER was interviewed by Sahara TV at FINER office on the 22nd October, 2003 on the reported move to include North Bengal in the ambit of the North Eastern Council. Sri Agarwala lucidly explained the apprehension of the industry towards this reported move. The interview was telecast on 26th October, 2003 at 8 PM.

Meeting with the Governor Assam

A FINER delegation led by the President Sri Subhash Agarwala called on His Excellency the Governor of Assam on the 29th October, 03. The delegation presented a memorandum protesting the move to include North Bengal in NEC and the Governor assured that it was a mere rumour. The delegation apprised the Governor regarding the necessity of Business Summits for Northeast in the capitals of the Northeast in order to provide investors with a feeling of ground realities.

Interactive meeting Central Excise authorities

The Federation organized an Interactive meeting with Central Excise authorities on 21st November, 2003 at Guwahati. Sri T. Haokip, Additional Commissioner (Tech) of Central Excise, Shillong and Sri M.R. Mahanty, Joint Commissioner, Central Excise, Dibrugarh attended the meeting. The session was presided over by Sri Subhash Agarwala, President FINER and coordinated by Sri R.S. Joshi, Vice President and Sri Sandeep Khaitan, Director

In his address Sri Haokip said Central Excise department is very much assessee friendly and the rules and guidelines have been amended from time to time for the convenience of assesses. The department has complied by setting up Tax Clinic unit, arranging regular Regional Advisory Committee meetings to thrush out the important issues. In his deliberation Sri M.R. Mahanty said that the Central Excise rules are very much liberal but at the same time keeps strict vigil to differentiate between a bonafide mistake and deliberate one. The issues like Service tax, CENVAT credit, registration certificate under Central Excise etc. were also put forward for discussion. The Central Excise authorities extended full cooperation and requested the FINER members to apprise their problems to the Central Excise Commissionerate of Shillong and Dibrugarh depending upon under which jurisdiction they fall for redressal of their problems.

Governing Board expanded

Sri Subhash Agarwala, President, FINER co-opted the following persons in the Governing Board of FINER for the year 2003-05.
 

FINER attends RBI Meeting of Banks

The Federation is having regular interactions with the bankers and govt. officials for the improvement of banking scenario in the region. The Reserve Bank of India conducts the interactions.

Meghalaya Chapter

In a bid to expand the activities of field of operations, FINER took the initiatives to begin the Meghalaya Chapter of FINER. FINER President Sri Subhash Agarwala led a 3 member delegation of FINER Directors to Byrnihat on the 7th November '03 where 20 industrialists/entrepreneurs of Meghalaya had gathered at the premises of Nezone Tubes. The meeting was co-ordinated by Sri Santosh Kumar Jaiswal, Director FINER. Sri Rohit Jain was entrusted to co-ordinate the entire issue and the complete support of FINER secretariat was assured.

FINER President attends Peace Initiative

Sri Subhash Agarwala attended a Peace Initiative at the invitation of Sri Bhubaneshwar Kalita, Hon'ble Minister for Industries & Commerce of the Govt. of Assam at the Circuit House on the 28th November, 2003. The meeting was also attended by Sri Nilomoni Sen Deka, Hon'ble Minister of State for Finance, Govt. of Assam. The meeting was called in view of the disturbances over job reservation for local youths in the Railways and the atrocities on the Bihari community as well as the attack on Hindustan Lever by ULFA. The meeting condemned these actions and the participants were of the view that such actions would only drive away prospective investor, which is the need of the day for development and progress. The meeting called for an immediate halt to such deeds and appealed for peace and tranquility.

Tea Board meeting

Sri Sudip De, Director, FINER attended Tea Board meeting held on 28th & 29th November,2003 at Kolkata and took part in the deliberation.

FINER in T.V. Programme

The national network of Doordarshan carried an interview with Shri Abhijit Barooah, Past President, FINER on the industrial scenario of the North Eastern region at present with particular emphasis on Assam. The interview mainly focused on the impact of North East Industrial policy in promoting industrial development of the region and position of North East vis-à-vis other parts of the country in terms of investment. The programme was telecast on 2nd December, 2003.

Meeting of the AERC Advisory Committee

Sri Abhijit Barooah, Former President and Sri George Chacko, Director attended the meeting of the Advisory Committee of Assam Electricity Regularity Commission on 03.12.03. The following issues were raised by FINER on two drafts guidelines prepared by AERC

Meeting with CGM, Telephones

A delegation of FINER directors led by its President Sri Subhash Agarwala and Sri R G. Harlalka, Chairman of FINER's Committee on Infrastructure had a very fruitful interaction with Sri B.K. Sinha, Chief General Manager, Assam Telephone Circle and his team of senior officials on the 15th December, 2003. Sri Sinha informed that the State has been broken up into 7 Telecom Districts and each of these Districts would be headed by a General Manager to improve services to the consumers. FINER on its part congratulated the Telecom Department for the very much improved service prevailing now than what it was a year ago though there were still a number of irritants that needed to be sorted out. A wide range of issues were discussed during the meet.

Meeting with Dr. Jayanta Madhab

Mr. Sudip De, Chairman, Committee on Foreign Trade, Customs and Tea of FINER, met Dr. Jayanta Madhab on 19.12.2003 at Dispur and requested him to take up the issues pertaining to transport subsidy on tea, funds for ICD under ASIDE scheme etc. with the concerned authorities.

Meeting with SIDBI

Interacting with the FINER members on 22nd December 2003, the Deputy General Manager of Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) said that the small scale industries are exposed to have lots of challenges in view of global competition enforced by the World Trade Organization. "Foreign investors are coming because they have confidence in our country and the country has reached $100 bn mark in foreign exchange reserve so the picture is not grim at all" said the newly appointed Deputy General Manager of SIDBI in Guwahati.
Highlighting the various schemes introduced by SIDBI for small-scale industries, Smt. Srinivasan said that many relaxation has been done by the development bank in the front of giving credit to the small scale industries. She mentioned that the lower limit of financing small project's cost has been lowered down to Rs. 10 lakhs from the earlier Rs. 50 lakhs. She elaborated the various schemes for technology up gradation, export finance, vendor development, women entrepreneurship etc.
FINER members present took active participation in the interaction and raised many queries on the rate of interests charged, credit guarantee scheme, etc.

Earlier the FINER President highlighted the close association of the Federation with SIDBI and the helping hand offered by SIDBI to attend a management development programme at IIM, Ahmedabad by the FINER members.

Meeting with Minister, Forest & Environment

A delegation of FINER office-bearers consisting of Sri Abhijit Barooah, Sri R.S. Joshi, Sri Ramesh Pasari and then Secretary Sri Prashanta Goswami called on Sri Pradyut Bordoloi, Minister of State for Forests and Environment, Government of Assam on the 24th December 2004 and submitted a memorandum seeking his personal intervention to withdraw the increased fees of Assam Pollution Control Board.
Assam government has notified steep increases in the fees payable to Assam Pollution Control Board to establish and operate an industry in Assam. The increase is 4 to 35 times compared to earlier fees structure. Sri Bordoloi assured the delegation that he would definitely look into the matter and review the fees notified. The issue of exemption from Pollution Control approval for non-polluting industries was also brought up.

Farewell to CGM, SBI

A farewell dinner was organized by the Board of Directors of FINER to bid adieu to the outgoing Chief General Manager Shri C.R. Radhaskrishnan at Hotel Nandan on the 29th December, 2003. The dinner was also attended by the Regional Director of the Reserve Bank of India Sri Surindra Kumar, the CMD of NEDFI Sri J.P. Saikia and senior bankers of other banks. Sri Radhakrishnan was warmly felicitated with a 'Phulam Gamocha', an Endi Shawl, FINER souvenir and a gift-set by Sri Subhash Agarwala, President on behalf of FINER. Mr. Radhakrishnan had been a friend and went out of his way to promote developmental work in the region to boost the economy of the north east region.

Visit of 12th Finance Commission

The Principal Secretary, Industries invited FINER for a discussion on proposals to be placed before the visiting members of the 12th Finance Commission on the 5th January, 2004. FINER Vice President Sri R. S. Joshi attended the meeting and discussed issues to be raised. Following this meeting, Sri Joshi attended the meeting with the members of the 12th Finance Commission on the 8th January'04. He impressed upon the members to ensure that the State is adequately compensated for the loss in revenue once the VAT regime is implemented as the economy of the State will otherwise be severely affected.

Interim Union Budget

FINER submitted a pre-budget memorandum to Union Finance Minister with only one request to abolish Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT), which is ultravires to the policy announcements of North Eastern Industrial Policy, as policy clearly mentions that there will be 100% Income tax and Excise Exemption , but MAT is applicable, as a result of which 7.5% income tax is payable but nothing was announced.

CIPET RAC meeting

Sri Ramesh Pasari, Director , FINER attended the Regional Advisory Committee meeting of Central Institute of Plastics Engineering & Technology (CIPET) on the 5th January 2004 at Udyog Bhawan. The participants in the meeting discussed the facilities available and the necessity of informing the entrepreneurs of the region regarding the availability of these facilities.

Colloquium on Planning & Perspective for NER

The Centre for North East Studies and Policy Research conducted a two-day Colloquium on Planning and Perspective for North Eastern Region on the 6th & 7th January, 2004 at the Institute of Bank Management at Guwahati. Sri Prashanta Goswami then Secretary attended the meet on FINER's behalf. A galaxy of eminent persons such as Dr. Jayanta Madhab, Economic Adviser to the Govt. of Assam, Mr. P.L. Thanga, Secretary in-charge, NEC Mr. H.N. Das, Former Chief Secretary of Assam, Ms Patricia Mukhim, Social Activist and columnist from Meghalaya, Mr Sanjay Hazarika etc. participated in the Colloquium. Sri Goswami in a brief interaction pointed out the urgent need to educate the people on the various financial schemes that are available with the NEC, NEDFi, SIDBI and other financial institutions for the people to avail the benefit.

Tax Clinic meeting

The Central Excise Department organized a 'Tax Clinic' on the 29th January, 2004 to discuss various proposals to give relief to the industry as well as to rationalize the taxation structure. FINER Vice President Sri R.S. Joshi attended the meeting. Nothing much could be discussed as other invitees failed to turn up and the meeting stood deferred.

Abolition of Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT)

FINER welcomes the tax relief offered by the Union Finance Minister Sri Jaswant Singh in his "Mini Budget". It will go a long way towards boosting the economy of the country and the North Eastern Region in particular. The Federation felt that the reduction in the duty structure especially bringing down the customs duty from existing 25 per cent to 15 per cent on projects imports with investment of at least Rs. five crore inn plant and machinery will be an impetus in the industrialization of the region. Bringing down the peak customs duty rate on non-agricultural goods, cutting down the duty on medical equipments, reduction in the customs duty on raw materials and inputs of manufacturing electronic components etc. are some of the welcomed benefits for the industries of various segments.
FINER would, request the abolition of Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) for the region. In this connection the Federation has already put forward a proposal to the Hon'ble Minister and it earnestly hopes that it will be implemented.

FINER Fiesta

A FINER Fiesta was organized by the IT & Entertainment Committee of FINER in Bonani Nature Park near Khetri on 1st February, 2004 to bring the FINER members and their families together on a common platform to enjoy and relax far from their usual hectic business schedules. Since the Chairman of the Committee Shri Chinmoy Sharma was in overseas tour, Sri Sajjan Aggarwal, Co-Chairman, Sri Anil Saraf, Smt. Mamoni Barua Barthakur and Smti. Mayurakshi Dutta, members took the responsibility to organize the event. On the day of the event, the venue had a festive looks and members with their families colourfully attired joined the fiesta with great enthusiasm. Fun games like Treasure Hunt, Antakshri, Tigers drinking relay race etc. were held. DJ Parth was there to entertain the crowd with 3000 watt from his collection of sound tracks. Dance competition was also held. Compeer Mrs. Shikha Rai Sapru stole the limelight with her humorous anecdotes. All age groups enjoyed Sindhi Chatwala's mouth-watering junk food. "House of friends" was there for members to enjoy their afternoon. Breakfast & Lunch was arranged. The crowd won lot of prizes sponsored by many members.
The invitee guests Sri Paramesh Dutta, Comm. & Secy. Industry, Sri B. Kalyan Chakaravarthy, Commissioner Taxes, Sri Rakesh Agarwala, Senior Superintendent, Taxes, Sri OP Bhatt, CGM, SBI, Harish Gurbux, GM SBI and friends from different media graced the occasion.

FINER President in TV programme

Doordarshan on 3rd February 2004 in the national network telecasted an interview of FINER President Shri Subhash Agarwala in a programme titled "Northeast Note book" on the subject of industrial development of the Northeast and Northeast Industrial Policy of Govt. of India.

Meeting with GM, BSNL

A delegation of FINER consisting of Directors Sri R. G. Harlalka, Sri Amit Kr. Jain and then Secretary Sri Prashanta Goswami met Sri B. K. Mishra, General Manager, Kamrup Telecom on 5th February, 2004. The delegates discussed various telecom problems pertaining to Kamrup Telecom Circle.

Mobile Telephone facility by BSNL in NE Region

Shri Abhijit Barooah, Immediate Past President, FINER had taken up the issue of Mobile Telephone facility by BSNL in North Eastern Region with Sri Arun Shourie, Hon'ble Union Minister for Communications through Smti Bijoya Chakravarty, Hon'ble Union Minister of State for Water Resources. Reproduced below the reply of Sri Arun Shourie, Hon'ble Union Minister for Communications:
Minister Disinvestment Communications Information Technology Government of India.

Meeting with Commissioner of Taxes, Assam

The Vice President Sri R. S. Joshi who also heads FINER's committee on Taxation attended a meeting convened by the Tax Commissioner on the 10th February, 04. The meeting dealt with the computerization of Sales Tax proceeding and procedures.

Submission of proposals to Assam State-Budget

A FINER delegation comprising of Vice President Sri R.S. Joshi, Past President Sri Abhijit Barooah, Director Sri R.G. Harlalka and then Secretary Sri Prashanta Goswami called on the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Assam Sri Tarun Gogoi on 26th February, 2004 and submitted a memorandum on tax proposals for the coming state budget. The FINER office bearers impressed upon the Chief Minister the urgency to make these announcements immediately for the benefit of industry, trade and commerce. The issues raised were: Widening of the Tax Net, Issuance of Notification regarding exemption of Capital Good and Raw Materials from the purview of Entry Tax, Reduction in Sales Tax on sale to government, Reduction of Luxury Tax on Hotels The Chief Minister gave a very patient hearing and assured the delegation that suggestions made would be duly considered.
In the same connection the FINER team led by the Vice President Sri R.S. Joshi along with Sri Abhijit Barooah, Sri R.G. Harlalka and Sri Prashanta Goswami called on the Hon'ble Minister of State for Finance Sri Nilomoni Sen Deka on the 13th February 2004 and again on the 27th February'04. The Tax Commissioner Sri B. Kalyan Chakaravarthy also attended the meeting.

Meeting with Sri Jaswant Singh, Union Finance Minister

A FINER team comprising of the Vice President Shri R. S. Joshi and Directors Shri R.G. Harlalka and Shri S.K. Jain called on the Union Finance Minister Shri Jaswant Singh at Guwahati on the 27th February'04. The team requested the Union Finance Minister for withdrawal of Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) and exemption of Excise Duty in the North Eastern region. The Minister assured that he would favourably consider the request in due course.

Press Meet

FINER organized a Press meet on 4th March, 2004 at Hotel Landmark on the participation of industries from the North Eastern region in the recently concluded 'Made in India' Show at Yangon, Myanmar from the 19th to 22nd February, 2004. Shri Bhubaneshwar Kalita, Hon'ble Minister of Industries & Commerce, Govt. of Assam who had led the FINER delegation to Myanmar attended and addressed the Press meet along with FINER President Shri Subhash Agarwala and Past President Shri Abhijit Barooah. Shri Paramesh Dutta, Secretary, Industries & Commerce, who was also in the FINER delegation, Shri K.K. Dwivedy, Director of Industries & Commerce and Shri Hemanga Sharma, MD, AIDC also participated in the Press Meet. Media persons from different renowned newspapers were present. The proceedings were covered by Doordarshan Kendra, Guwahati. There was a lively question and answer session followed by dinner.

FRAMES 2004

Sri Chinmoy Sharma, Director, FINER who is also the Chairman of Entertainment Committee of FINER, has recently attended FRAMES 2004, a seminar on Entertainment Industry, organized by FICCI in Mumbai from 15th to 17th March,'04. The seminar covered the entire gamut of entertainment.

FRAMES 2004 witnessed participation from the Indian as well as the global entertainment conglomerates. Convention deliberated on the sectors like Films, Distribution, Multiplexes, Television, Broadcast, Cable, Radio, Live Entertainment, Music, Theme parks, Animation covering wide range of issues from the areas of Finance, Marketing, Intellectual Property Rights, Copyright, Co-production, Distribution, Technology, Advertising, Branding, etc.

Meeting of National Committee on North East of CII

FINER President Shri Subhash Agarwala represented the Federation at the second meeting National Committee on North East (2003-04) organized by CII on the 16th March, 2004 at Guwahati. The meeting discussed possible trade with Myanmar as India shared a cordial relation with the country. A joint task force is proposed to be constituted for further study of Indo-Myanmar trade. FINER demanded that there should be at least two members from the North Eastern Region in this Task Force and it was accepted in principle. It was further decided to organize a high powered ministerial level delegation to Mandalay, Myanmar in order to provide the much needed fillip to Indo-Myanmar trade through the North East.

Workshop on UNDP

Sri Subhash Agarwala, President, FINER and Smt. Shanta Bhattacharyya, Asstt. Executive Secretary attended a workshop organized by Centre for Environment Education, Northeastern Regional Cell on UNDP - Small Grants Programme in the N.E. India on 17th March, 2004 at Guwahati. The workshop was designed to share the experiences of various organizations working under the Small Grant Programme (UNDP) in the north Eastern of India. The workshop was well attended by many eminent personalities.

BIS meeting

Sri Subhash Agarwala, President, FINER attended the fifth State Level Committee meeting for Standardization and Quality Systems, Government of Meghalaya of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) held on 23rd March 2004 at Shillong. The meeting was held nearly after 2 years. In the meeting FINER suggested that there should be at least one meeting of BIS every year and actions taken on the matters should be informed to all the committee members at least quarterly. FINER suggested that there should be minimum two members from the licencees of Meghalaya of BIS so that the ground realities become evident. It would be easier to initiate necessary remedial steps once the actual situation is known. He also informed that due to spurious products with BIS marks, genuine manufacturers of BIS marked products are facing problem as there is no proper mechanism to meet the grievances of customs, if they procure spurious products with BIS marks but not confirming to BIS standards. Dy. Director General, BIS informed that they will take up the matter.

FINER President meets Secretary, NEC

The FINER President Sri Subhash Agarwala called on the Secretary, North East Council (NEC) at his office in Shillong on the 23rd March'04. During the discussions, the President put forward the viewpoint of FINER vis-à-vis NEC and apprised that the Federation wants to work in tandem with NEC towards achieving the common goal.

Tea Board Meeting at Kolkata

Shri Sudip De, Director, FINER attended the Tea Board meeting held at Kolkata on 27th March'2004. In the meeting the issue of increasing the Transport subsidy to Rs. 2 per kg. for teas shipped from ICD Amingaon was raised.

Talk on Strategic Management

FINER organized a talk on Strategic Management on 5th April,2004 at Vivekananda Kendra, Guwahati where Dr. Harry G. Harris, an expert in Trade, Globalization and Strategic Management issues and the President of Global Management Associates, California emphasized on working collectively in the global competitive market.

While talking on "Strategic Planning For Success In The Increasingly Global Competitive Market" Dr. Harris said that the key to globalization is the key to economic development. "Globalization leads to modernization, spread of technology, rise in the private investments, etc.".

Dr. Harris, the management expert, served as Director, Management in the Defense Secretariat and as Senior Professional Staff Member at the White House, Washington DC, USA.

Dr. Jayanta Madhab, the eminent economist presided over the function. In his address Dr. Madhab compared the Indian economy with that of the Korean in the last three decades and clarified ellaborately the controversial issue of whether globalization was destroying the swadeshi industries.

Earlier the FINER President Shri Subhash Agarwala welcomed the guests and participants and emphasized on the urgent need to introduce the North Eastern region and its investment potentials to the world community. Shri R.C. Gupta, Advisor FINER made a strong case with a power-point presentation of the Economy of the North Eastern Region.

Besides FINER members, the talk was attended by the heads of various financial institutions and academicians.

Workshop of CONCOR

Sri Sudip De, Director , FINER attended the annual workshop by CONCOR at Pinewood Hotel, Shillong on 30th April'04. At the workshop Sri De has made strong representation that in view of the severe crisis being faced by the Tea Industry, CONCOR should not enhance the rail freight for containers exported from ICD Amingaon. He also suggested other cost saving measures including 6% freight discount by N.F.Railway for full rake movement. Deliberations were also held on various operational aspects and there were a number of issues raised by the Shipping Lines and Exporters. Of prime concern was the part rake movements that are required for moving early and late season teas. Mr. Thiagarajan, Director CONCOR in his concluding address appreciated the points made by various speakers. CONCOR responded to FINER's proposal by raising the loaded freight by only 2% or Rs. 300/- and empty freight by Rs. 150 per 20 feet container.

Seminar on Export Development Programme

Sri Subhash Agarwala, President, FINER and Sri Diganta Barua, Trainee Executive attended a Seminar cum Workshop cum Training Programme held at Hotel Brahmaputra Ashok from 18th to 21st May 04'on Export Development and presentation of Export Development plan for the state organized by AIDC under the guidance of Indian Institute of Forgien Trade (IIFT). Dr. Rakesh M. Joshi, Professor and Project Leader IIFT New Delhi, Dr.R.K.Wadhwa and Dr. M.C.Harbola guided and elaborated the programme in different concepts of Export and Import Policies, Concepts, Tools, Techniques and Finance. Issue related to marketing and Border Trade from Assam was also discussed.

Sensitization Programme

The Directorate of Industries, Government of Assam had conducted a programme on Sensitization at their Conference Hall on the 25th May,2004. The programme was inaugurated by the Hon'ble Minister for Industries, Govt. of Assam. FINER Ex Secretary Sri Prashanta Goswami attended the meeting on behalf of FINER.

Meeting on "Seuj Prakalpa"

Sri Subhash Agarwala, President, FINER and Sri Bhaskarjyoti Chakravarty, Sr. Executive participated a meeting on "Seuj Prakalpa" on 27th May' 2004 at Assam State Zoo, R. G. Baruah Road, Guwahati. Sri Pradyut Bordoloi, Hon'ble Minister of State for Forests & Environment, Government of Assam was the Chief Guest in the meeting, presided by Sri Rajendra P. Agarwalla, IFS Chief Conservation of Forests, Social Forestry. Sri R.D.S. Tanwar, IFS Conservator of Forest, Sri S. Mahanta, DFO of State Zoo and other officials of Forests Departments along with attendees from many corporate houses were also present in the meeting.

The Seuj Prakalpa (A Green Care Movement) for Guwahati City was launched by the Hon'ble Chief Minister, Assam on 6th May'2003 to create additional Forest cover in and around Guwahati City for arresting flash floods, heavy siltation and to make Guwahati the Greenest City of the Country with active cooperation and support from the Corporate Sector, PSUs and various NGOs.

Participating in the interactive session, Sri Subhash Agarwala , President assured full cooperation from FINER to adopt packages like Corporate Brand Equity Plantation in the towns and cities. Sri Agarwala also requested the State Government to give income tax exemption to those industries associated with the Seuj Prokalpa.

Interactive Session on NEIP

An interactive session among members was organized by FINER on 5th June, 2004 at Vivekananda Kendra, Guwahati to discuss the North East Industrial Policy (NEIP). Sri Subhash Agarwala, President, FINER introduced the subject of NEIP to the large gathering of members. Thereafter the session was continued by Sri R. S. Joshi, Vice President, FINER. In the open session innumerable suggestions were made by delegates present. The participation was intense with the involvement of various Directors of FINER in the proceedings.

Directorate of Industries & Commerce, Assam meeting

The Directorate of Industries & Commerce, Govt. of Assam organized a meeting on the 7th June'04 to discuss the North East Industrial Policy. The meeting was chaired by Hon'ble Minister of Industries & Commerce, Govt. of Assam, Shri Bhubaneshwar Kalita.

Opening the discussion the Hon'ble Minister referred to the need for representing before the new ministry in Delhi the various matters concerning industrialization in Assam. The meeting was attended by Sri S.D. Lahkar, Sr. Consultant on behalf of FINER. The various suggestions that were raised by FINER members at the interactive session on 5th June, 2004 on NEIP was incorporated in the presentation prepared by the Directorate of Industries and others for submission before various ministries including the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Govt. of India, New Delhi.

Welcome dinner to CGM, SBI

A dinner was organized by FINER on 12th June'04 to welcome Shri O.P. Bhatt, Chief General Manager, State Bank of India at Hotel Landmark. The dinner was well attended and fruitful discussions were held between Directors of FINER and eminent personalities from banking sector.

FINER in NE TV Programme

Sri Subhash Agarwala and Sri R. S. Joshi, President and Vice President of FINER respectively were invited for live discussion on "Requirement of Industries from the newly installed Government in the Centre". At the telecast on the 12th June'04 the President and Vice President FINER raised various concerning industrialization of the Northeast.

FINER President felicitates Speaker, Lok Sabha

At a glittering function organized by FICCI, Eastern Regional Council in association with several regional chamber of commerce including FINER on the 15th June'04 to felicitate Shri Somnath Chatterjee, Speaker, Lok Sabha, FINER President Sri Subhash Agarwala presented memento to him on behalf of FINER.

Meeting with Polish Ambassador

FINER organized an interactive session with Polish Ambassador Dr. Krzysztof Majka on 25th June 2004 in our office premises. Improvement of the 50 years of bilateral relation Poland has with India was the intention behind the visit of His Excellency Dr. Krzysztof Majka to Guwahati. Dr. Majka said that Poland has ample opportunities to provide to the investors of this region. Giving glimpses of Poland economy the Polish ambassador said that "Poland had the same inflationary rate as India a decade ago and adopted the policies for reform of economy at the same period of time in 1990's." The country is now been able to drastically bring down the inflationary rate.

He explained the various possible sectors for investment by the Indian entrepreneurs viz. power plant, railways, food, infrastructure etc. "Steel and Chemicals are found to be most preferred areas of investment at present by the Indian Investors", he says. The recent inclusion of Poland in the membership of European Union will benefit the investors to deal with Poland as it will cut down taxes and levies heavily.

The Interactive session was attended by the various industrialists of this region and was coordinated by the Vice Presidents Shri R.S. Joshi and Dr. N.N. Dutta of FINER.

Meeting with Mr. P.P. Verma

A delegation of Assam Industrial Policy Committee of FINER called on Mr. P.P. Verma, IAS, Principal Secy, Environment department and acting Chairman, Pollution Control Board at Dispur on 25th June, 2004 and represented against the enhancement in renewal/consent fee notified by the Government of Assam .

FINER submits Pre-budget memorandum to Union Finance Minister

FINER submitted a Pre-Budget Memorandum to the Union Finance Minister Shri P. Chidambaram highlighting various issues concerning Northeast India. Special reference has been made to the need for sustaining the North East Industrial Policy and removing of bottleneck implementation.

Meeting with FICCI, New Delhi

Sri M. K. Sharma, Chairman, Tourism Committee of FINER and Sri S. D. Lahkar, Sr. Consultant, FINER had a series of interaction with officials of FICCI on 28th June'04. Among other matters the FINER officials discussed the prospects of organising the seminar of Eco-Tourism/ Adventure Tourism with focus of the Northeast. Sri Sharma and Sri Lakhar also called on the Secretary General of FICCI Dr. Amit Mitra in an informal chat.

FINER attends AERC Advisory Committee Meeting

Sri Abhijit Barooah, Past President and Shri S.D. Lahkar, Sr. Consultant represented FINER in the meeting of the 5th state Advisory Committee of Assam Electricity Regulatory Commission held on 2nd July, 2004. The meeting was chaired by Shri Nilomani Barua, the Chairperson, AERC. The meeting deliberated on 9 draft regulations prepared under the provisions of the Electricity Act, 2003. some of the highlights of the discussion were as under:

FINER wanted the logic behind considering the years 2007 and 2008 being the timing for open access for wheeling different contracted energy, and not from immediate effect. FINER is of the view that there should be provision for giving preference of open access to the bigger consumers, which serves as an encouragement for investment, thereby improves the investment climate. The Federation also urged AERC not to allow ASEB to dictate terms & conditions for deferring open access implementation on the ground of their inadequate network availability indefinitely when Central Sector Generating Stations are willing to supply power to the consumers. There should be endeavour to explore as to how quick the open access be implemented.

FINER organizes Talk on Union Budget

FINER organized a session on the Union Budget 2004-2005 on the 3rd August, 2004 at Guwahati. Shri Debashish Mitra, eminent Chartered Accountant And chief speaker on the occasion spoke on the "Union Budget - implication on Proposed Tax Measures", Shri Mitra elaborated on the various provisions contained in the Union Budget and drew attention about the various sweeping changes. The speaker also highlighted the specific impact on individuals and corporates which was followed by a lively question & answer session.

Shri S.C. Agarwala, President, FINER while commenting on the Union Budget expressed his apprehension with regard to the various negative fall out effect on the budget. He expressed that MAT defeats the very purpose of the North East Industrial Policy declaring the Region as tax free zone. The Federation has therefore appealed before the Union Government for abolition MAT on industrial units in the North Eastern Region.

Shri Mitra regretted that though the cut off date of 31st March, 2004 has been extended for J&K, the Finance Minister has not done so for manufacturing units in the North East with regard to Income Tax exemption. The session also discussed the far reaching negative consequence of the 2% Cess proposed on Income Tax, Corporate Tax, Excise Duty and Customs Duty and Service Tax.

Shri R.S. Joshi, Vice President, FINER & Chairman of Banking & Taxation Committee of FINER earlier introduced the subject and clarified participants queries on Central Excise and Education Cess.

FINER meets Hon'ble Minister of DONER at New Delhi

A delegation of FINER Directors led by its President Shri Subhash Agarwala called on the Hon'ble Minister of Development of North Eastern Region (DONER) Shri P.R. Kyndiah on 19th August, 2004 at New Delhi. Sri Subhash Agarwal placed before the Minister the various activities initiated by FINER for catalyzing economic growth of the Region. Referring to the urgent need to review the North East Industrial Policy (NEIP), 1997, Shri Agarwala urged the Minister for his support and guidance.

In order to meet the objective of North East Industrial Policy and make it more effective a review of the Policy is required. He further stated that with similar fiscal packages now being approved for certain other States in Northern India, the NE State has been put to a further disadvantage. Areas such as Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal are well placed in terms of infrastructure and closer to major markets and hence preferred destination for investments vis-à-vis the North East. Shri. Agarwala mentioned that FINER has been reviewing the progress of the North East Industrial Policy in an attempt to make the schemes more meaningful and effective. FINER had on a number of occasions made submission before the Govt. both State and Central for review of the North East Industrial Policy in order to stimulate development of industries in the region in the true spirit of the government's intentions.

The Minister gave a patient hearing to the FINER delegations submission and agreed to examine the suggestions made.

The Hon'ble Minister was also briefed on the proposal of FINER to hold a Seminar on the Business for Entertainment during December,2004.

FINER delegation meets Secretary, DIPP, Government of India and other officials of the Ministry of Industry.

A FINER delegation called on various officials of the Ministry of Industry & Commerce, Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), Govt. of India, New Delhi on 19th and 20th August 2004 with the objective of focusing attention on the need to review and revitalize the North East Industrial Policy, 1997.

On the afternoon of 20th August, 2004 the FINER delegation attended a meeting convened by the Secretary, DIPP, Govt.of India. At the well attended interaction of DIPP officials led by Shri A. K. Jha, Secretary, DIPP along with Shri S. Jagdeesan, Jt. Secretary, DIPP, Shri J.P. Saikia, CMD, NEDFi & other officials, Shri Subhash Agarwala, President, FINER made a detailed presentation on the NEIP, 1997. The meeting deliberated on the subject and the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion reacted positively to the FINER suggestions and agreed to consider some of the proposals for necessary action.

Japanese Delegation Interacts with FINER

A Japanese delegation from the Institute of Developing Economics, Tokyo visited the FINER office at Guwahati on 2nd September, 2004.

The Institute of Developing Economics deals with contemporary development problems globally. The scholars representing the IDE on a study tour to North East India was in Guwahati to interact with business organization specially to look at the trade and business relations, opportunities between this region and neighbouring countries with a focus on the potential and realities of fostering regional and sub-regional cooperation.

The Japanese delegation had a detailed interaction with various Directors of FINER in an attempt to understand the business realities of North East India and the potential to open up trade in the South East Asia Region.

The interaction also discussed the opportunities thrown by the 'Look East Policy' of the Govt. of India.

FINER participates in Round Table with Japanese delegation

On the 3rd of September'04 under the initiative of C-NES a Round Table was organized at the ARISP Hall, Guwahati which was attended by a delegation of Japanese Scholars from the IDE, Tokyo and various leading bodies of North Eastern Region. FINER was represented by Sri Subhash Agarwala, President and Sri S.D. Lahkar, Secretary General. Sri Lahkar made a presentation on behalf of the President, FINER on the subject of "Challenges and Opportunities before business - and the responses from Government". Prominent speakers at the round table included Shri Sanjay Hazarika, Managing Trustee C-NES and Dr. Jayanta Madhab, Adviser to Chief Minister of Assam. Prof. Sanjib Barua of CENISEAS, Guwahati spoke on "Looking East through the North East: a scholar's perspective" and Sri Abhijit Barooah representing CII presented a paper on "CII's special interest in the NER and connectivity to the rest of India as well as neighbouring countries".

FINER attends CIPET meeting

Shri Ramesh Pasari, Director, FINER attended a meeting organized by CIPET held on 7th September, 2004 at Changsari, Guwahati.

Interaction with the Hon'ble Minister of Industry, Govt. of Assam

A delegation of Directors of FINER led by Shri Abhijit Barooah, Chairman Assam Industrial Policy Committee called on Shri Anjan Dutta, Hon'ble Minister of Industries, Transport on 7th September 2004. In the Interaction with the Hon'ble Minister, delegation briefed him on various issues connected with Industry in Assam.

FINER attends RAC meeting of Central Excise

FINER President Shri Subhash Agarwala, Vice President Shri R.S. Joshi and Director Shri Sandeep Khaitan attended the RAC meeting of Central Excise held on 14th September, 2004 at Guwahati.

Meeting with Commissioner of Taxes

A delegation of Directors of FINER led by Shri R.S. Joshi, Vice President and Chairman of Banking & Taxation Committee interacted with Shri B. Kalyan Chakravarthy, Commissioner of Taxes, Govt. of Assam on 15th September 2004 and drew his kind attention to expedite issuance of notification and scheme on exemption granted from Entry Tax as envisaged in the Assam State Budget. The delegation also discussed other Sales Tax and fiscal policy.

FINER meets Assam Minister of Industry & Commerce

A delegation of FINER led by Shri Abhijit Barooah, Past President along with members of the FINER Committee on Assam Industrial Policy met Shri Anjan Dutta, Hon'ble Minister for Industries & Commerce, Govt. of Assam and submitted a memorandum on exorbitant increase in the rate of Pollution Control Board fees imposed on industries in Assam and also submitted a write up on some issues connected with industrialization of Assam

FINER interacts with officials of DIPP, NEDFi, Director of Industries, Assam

FINER organized an interaction with official of Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion, New Delhi on 15th September'05 at Udyog Bhawan, Guwahati. The meeting was presided over by Sri M. Thakur, IAS, Director of Industries & Commerce, Govt. of Assam, Guwahati who welcomed all the dignitaries to the meeting and extended special welcome to Shri Puran Singh of DIPP. President, FINER Shri Subhash Agarwala elaborated the various issues connected with North East Industrial Policy, 1997 and referred to the meeting with the Secretary, DIPP, Govt. of India, New Delhi held on 20th August'04.Shri Puran Chand elaborated on the subject of NEIP-1997 and the detailed discussion followed on the subject. Various bottlenecks and streamlining procedures were also suggested by the officials of the Director of Industries, Govt. of Assam.

FINER attends Stakeholders conference on tea in New Delhi

Shri Sudip De, Chairman, Committee on Foreign Trade, Customs and Tea of FINER attended the Stakeholders Conference on Tea held on 16th and 17th September, 2004 in New Delhi organized by Union Commerce Ministry.

Hon'ble Union Minister for Industry & Commerce Shri Kamal Nath inaugurated the meeting and took a leading role in the wrap up session the following day. During the 2 days conference there were papers presented on diverse issues like production, labour, Govt. regulations, taxation, HRD, Tea Auctions, Bought Leaf factories etc.

The conference decided on 25 issues that needed attention and the Minister suggested creation of a Small Committee that would look into all aspects and submit a report within a month.

FINER were successful in obtaining from the Commerce Ministry an increase in the Transport Subsidy by Rs. 0.50 per kilogram of Teas exported from ICD Amingaon. This would benefit Tea Exporter by Rs. 5500 per container.

FINER collaborates in IT Seminar organized by NEC, IEMSD & IIE

A seminar on Mission IT for Masses organized by North Eastern Council (NEC) in collaboration with the Institute of Environmental Management and Social Development (IEMSD), FINER and Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE) on 29th & 30th September, 2004. The two-days seminar was inaugurated by the Governor of Assam Lt. Gen. (Retd) Ajay Singh.

FINER was represented by Shri Chinmay Sharma, Chairman, Committee on IT & Entertainment of FINER, Shri Anil Saraf, Co-Chairman on IT & Entertainment Committee and Shri S.D. Lahkar, Secretary General, FINER.

FINER President nominated as Co-Chairman in FICCI, ERC -Committee on North East

FICCI, Eastern Region Council has constituted a Committee on North East to which Shri Subhash Agarwala, President, FINER has been nominated as Co-Chairman. The Chairman of FICCI Eastern Region Council is Shri C. K. Dhanuka and Smti Moushumi Ghosh is the Director of the Council. The other members of the Committee are Sri Sajjan Bhajanka, MD, Shyam Century Ferrous Limited, Sri Abhijit Barooah, Past President, FINER, Sri Rohit Jain, Secretary General, Confederation of Industries of Meghalaya, Sri Ramesh Jain, Jain Udyog, Agartala, Tripura and Sri S.D. Lahkar, Secretary General, FINER.

FINER Director in ZRUCC

Shri R. G. Harlalka, Director, FINER and Chairman, FINER Committee on Infrastructure has been inducted as a member of Zonal Railway Users' Consultative Committee (ZRUCC), N. F. Railway for the period 01.08.2004 to 31.07.2006.

DIFFERENT COMMITTEES OF FINER AT A GLANCE

For effective functioning and involving members more in the activities of the Federation, the following committees were constituted under the Chairmanship and Co-chairmanship of the members listed below-

 

GOVERNING BOARD MEETINGS

During the period under review there were 12 Governing Board meetings.