Deputy Commissioner of Dharwad Deepa M. has said that all necessary cooperation will be extended to industries to resume their operations in the district. Chairing a meeting with office-bearers of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and industrialists from the district here on Friday, she said that the government had released an advisory on re-starting industries and industrialists should follow the guidelines and ensure only 33 % workers on their premises.
Ms Deepa said that nearly 7,000 migrant workers from Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha and Gujarat and others had returned to their native places resulting in a shortage of workers. Regarding repayment of loan and interest and the need for working capital, she said that she would write to the State government. To a request, she clarified that steps would be taken to permit round-the-clock movement of goods vehicles. She also said that steps would be taken to issue permits for ferrying workers to work places even during curfew.
KCCI president Mahendra Ladhad sought the district administration’s permission for mango and food processing industries to work even on Sundays. Industrialist Ninganna Biradar demanded working capital for industries through banks. Office-bearers of various industry organisations submitted their views. Joint Director of Industries and Commerce Department Mohan Bharamakkanavar explained the facilities and relief measures announced by the State government. Deputy Director of Industries and Textiles Viresh Davale, Assistant Commissioner of Labour Department Meena Patil and other officials were present.