New Delhi, Jan 9 (NationPress) During a meeting held on Friday, the National Traders’ Welfare Board underscored the significance of the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign aimed at enhancing local industries and advocating for products made within the country.

The members agreed to initiate the ‘Swadeshi Sankalp Daud’ across the nation from January 12 to 23, motivating citizens to fully engage in the Swadeshi spirit in both manufacturing and purchasing.

Chairman Sunil J. Singhi emphasized the critical role of digital innovation in the retail sector and encouraged small traders to utilize platforms like the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to broaden their market reach and increase income possibilities.

The discussion highlighted that forthcoming policies and initiatives will consistently focus on supporting traders through capacity development, financial assistance, social security measures, market connections, and clear grievance resolution processes.

Reiterating the Board’s mission and vision, the chairman confirmed that ongoing efforts will ensure traders remain competitive, secure, and thriving in the changing economic environment, as per an official statement.

Joint Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Sanjiv, stressed the retail sector's pivotal role in India's economy and urged members to raise awareness about the board's initiatives and activities, including virtual interactive sessions.

The chairman updated the board on significant steps taken towards achieving its goals, informing that feedback from trade associations and members had been submitted to relevant ministries and departments for necessary action. He encouraged suggestions from members to further improve awareness and outreach of welfare schemes related to the retail sector.

Chairman Sunil also provided insights into the next-generation Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms and their beneficial effects on traders and consumers. He referenced the nationwide campaign led by traders, “GST Bachat Utsav”, which showcases the trading community’s gratitude for the transformative GST reforms enacted under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He reaffirmed the Government's dedication to fostering a favorable business climate through streamlined processes, reduced compliance burdens, financial support, and enhanced infrastructure.

The meeting saw participation from non-official members representing diverse trade associations and states and union territories, along with ex-officio members from nine ministries and departments of the Government of India, the statement concluded.