Mumbai: The Vibrant India Economic Council (VIEC) a non profit business association has intensified its advocacy for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) affected by forest mutations in land revenue records. These mutations, which create legal uncertainties regarding land use for industrial purposes, have severely impacted MSMEs operating on lands classified post-development as forest areas. VIEC’s efforts focus on streamlining the process to provide relief to these legitimate businesses. The movement aims to raise awareness and extend support to entities facing similar challenges.
The breakthrough came with VIEC’s detailed representation to the MSME ministry prompted official engagement with the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MOEFCC). The ministry, recognizing the gravity of the issue, convened a meeting with VIEC to gain a comprehensive understanding. Mr. Manoj Patil, Director VIEC, presented an in-depth report detailing the adverse effects of forest mutations on MSMEs, stressing the urgent need for sustainable solutions.
In response, the MOEFCC issued directives to the state government to seek the Supreme Court’s approval for granting relief to affected entities. Additionally, the Maharashtra Industry Ministry addressed the issue with the Revenue and Forest Ministry, pushing for swift action based on VIEC’s report.
The State Government is now in the process of obtaining the apex court’s permission to implement relief measures for the affected businesses, marking a crucial step forward in VIEC’s advocacy efforts informed Pawan Kolte a non-executive director of the forum.
The forum’s Chairman Mahesh Tapase said that the Government is finding ways to resolve this issue at the earliest. He acknowledged the contributions of COSIA and TSSIA in this collaborative effort to promote sustainable growth and legal clarity for MSMEs affected by forest mutations in land records.
