The 8th meeting of the National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB) was held at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi, under the chairmanship of Sunil J. Singhi. The meeting reviewed ongoing initiatives and future strategies aimed at strengthening India’s retail trade ecosystem and enhancing traders’ welfare.
Addressing the meeting, Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), highlighted the crucial role of the retail trade sector in India’s economic growth. He encouraged Members to actively spread awareness about NTWB initiatives, including virtual interactive sessions, and appreciated the leadership of the Chairperson, noting that the Board’s progress reflects strong coordination and a clear strategic vision.
Key Initiatives and Policy Outreach
The Chairperson apprised Members of major initiatives undertaken to achieve the Board’s objectives. He informed that representations received from trade associations and Board Members had been forwarded to the concerned Ministries and Departments for necessary action. Suggestions were invited from Members to further enhance outreach and awareness of welfare schemes for the retail trade sector.
GST Reforms and Traders’ Participation
The Board was briefed on next-generation Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms and their positive impact on both traders and consumers. Reference was made to the nationwide traders-led campaign “GST Bachat Utsav”, which reflects the trading community’s appreciation of GST reforms implemented under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
The Chairperson reiterated the Government’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment through simplified procedures, reduced compliance burden, financial support, and improved infrastructure.
Vocal for Local and Swadeshi Push
Emphasizing the importance of the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, the Board discussed measures to boost indigenous industries and promote locally made products. In this context, Members deliberated on taking the ‘Swadeshi Sankalp Daud’ campaign nationwide from 12 to 23 January, encouraging citizens to embrace Swadeshi values in both production and consumption.
Digital Transformation and ONDC
The Chairperson stressed the importance of digital transformation in the retail sector and urged small traders to leverage platforms such as the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to expand market access and enhance income opportunities. It was highlighted that future policies and schemes will continue to prioritize traders’ welfare through capacity building, financial support, social security measures, market linkages, and transparent grievance redressal mechanisms.
Reaffirming the mission and vision of the NTWB, the Chairperson stated that sustained efforts would ensure traders remain competitive, secure, and prosperous in an evolving economic landscape.
Participation in the Meeting
The meeting was attended by non-official Members representing various trade associations, States, and Union Territories, along with ex-officio Members from nine Ministries and Departments of the Government of India.
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Source: PIB
