Scientific apparatus, mixer firms not to resume ops
Tribune News Service
Ambala, April 22
Scientific apparatus manufacturers and mixer grinder manufacturers in Ambala have decided not to resume operations due to stringent guidelines and no demand from the market.
Sanjay Gupta, president of Ambala Scientific Instruments Manufactures Association, said, “The stringent guidelines are the major issue and we have decided not to resume operations. There are provisions of lodging FIR against the owner if there is any violation in the implementation of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). Even if the operations are resumed, there will be an issue with the availability of raw material. China is one part from where the glassware raw material used to come. Even the domestic suppliers from Delhi, Punjab, Chandigarh and other states are facing similar lockdowns.
“In Ambala, the local suppliers were operating from timber market and its adjoining areas, but the entire area is completely shut as it was declared a hotspot.
“For Ambala’s industry, nearly 80 per cent clients are educational institutes and engineering colleges and these will be the last to get relaxation from the lockdown. With no demand, there is no benefit in starting production,” he added.
There are over 1,500 small and big units in Ambala providing jobs to nearly 20,000 people.
Similarly, Arun P Bansal, president of Scientific Apparatus Manufacturers and Exporters, said, “The government should have consulted small scale industrialists before issuing guidelines. The majority of units are very small and the guidelines regarding providing accommodation and transportation are very difficult. The stringent guidelines have also discouraged the manufacturers.
“For instance, we make quality control instruments for the pharma industry. If there is an order, we will need electronic components from Delhi or Mumbai market but the markets are closed. The allied industries are also closed. The government has been expecting cooperation from industry, but hasn’t been giving any rebate or help to industrialists,” he added.
Ajay Aggarwal, president of Mixie Manufacturers’ Association, said, “The compliance of SOP is very difficult. With markets closed and no availability of raw material, how are we supposed to resume operations? Around 70 units are engaged in manufacturing unbranded products in Ambala. The mixer and grinder industry in Ambala has been battling for survival. Previous payments are still stuck in the market and the association has decided to keep operations shut.”
