Co-operation of manufacturing and service industries is essential to control the spread of Coronavirus infection: Chief Minister M K Stalin
Coimbatore: A special meeting chaired by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M K Stalin was held in Chennai on Monday with the participation of industrialists to discuss ways to curb the spread of Coronavirus infections.
Speaking at the meeting, Chief Minister M K Stalin said, "It is important for the industry to work together to tackle the current dire situation. That is why this meeting is being held. The spread of Coronavirus infections in Tamil Nadu is on the rise. Additional relaxations will be announced accordingly if the spread of the disease decreases within a few days. But, cooperation from the industry is very important," he added.
Speaking on behalf of Coimbatore district at the meeting, Ramesh Babu, President, Coimbatore District Small Industries Association, CODISSIA, said, “The spread of the second wave of the Coronavirus has put all industries in a severe crisis. The Moratorium Extension should repay a scheme similar to the Stimulus Package announced by the Finance Minister the last time Covid hit us. I request the Government of Tamil Nadu to put pressure on the Central Government.
Spare parts for businesses cannot be purchased at retail stores due to the current curfew that is in place. Therefore, permission should be granted to open retail outlets selling parts including tools for a few hours. Industrialists are charged a hefty MOD (Memorandum of Deposit) when borrowing from banks. The same procedure should be followed as only Rs.5000 was charged during the first wave of Covid infections. Oxygen generators are manufactured and shipped with the assistance of the Central Military and Research Development Center (DRDO) in Coimbatore. Oxygen demand in hospitals can be easily met by subsidizing these.
At the same time, the industry needs uninterrupted supply of oxygen. Therefore, the Government should take steps to provide subsidies to increase the use of oxygen generators."