August 17, 2013
West Bengal Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee reiterates her stand against FDI in retail sector
West Bengal Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee reiterated her stand against foreign direct investment (FDI) in the retail sector while inaugurating Lake Mall off Rashbehari Avenue on August 14.
“Lake Mall is a test case for us against FDI in retail sector. Here one will find both pucca (permanent stalls) and kuccha stalls (vegetables and fish slabs). The hawkers have also been rehabilitated. Half of India`s population depended on retail trade. We severed our alliance with the UPA II government because we opposed FDI in retail. We were against it as it would have an adverse effect on small traders. Suppose if India`s population is 100 crore, then half of it survives on retail trade. “ Ms. Banerjee said at the event.
The Lake Mall is a joint venture of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and a private sector enterprise, built on the PPP (Public Private Partnership) model. This is the first market that was restored under the PPP model. Ms Banerjee also urged business houses to come forward to restore dilapidated government markets that need urgent renovation.
“PPP models could become successful in the State. This is a message to industry and business houses. We want to renovate these markets to ensure their safety and security along with protection from fire hazards, “ the Chief Minister added.
KMC also opened its 10th e-Kolkata Citizen Service Centre on the 6th floor of the Lake Mall. “It is our largest e-centre in Kolkata, “ said Mayor Sovan Chatterjee.
Share:
