Yamunanagar MLA Ghanshyam Das Arora has taken a significant political step to address the industrial stagnation in the region. In a high-level meeting with Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in Chandigarh, Arora presented a detailed set of proposals designed to revive the city’s backbone industries and modernize its infrastructure for the 2026–27 State Budget.
1. The Plywood Sector: A Battle for Survival
As the “Plywood Nucleus” of India, Yamunanagar is facing a severe raw material crisis.
- The Crisis: Nearly 125 factories have already shut down due to a shortage of Poplar and Safeda wood. With neighboring states like Uttar Pradesh retaining their own timber, Yamunanagar units are operating at only 40% capacity.
- The Proposal: Arora urged the government to abolish the 1% market fee on wood and reduce the GST rate from 18% to 5%. He argued that these moves are essential to stop the migration of factories to other states.
- Lifting the Ban: He also requested the removal of the ban on planting eucalyptus saplings, which was recently restricted due to environmental concerns, to ensure future wood supply.
2. Green Mobility: Making EVs Tax-Free
To tackle the rising pollution levels in this industrial hub, the MLA proposed a bold shift in transportation.
- The Demand: He recommended that the Haryana government make Electric Vehicle (EV) registration completely tax-free.
- The Vision: This move is aimed at making green mobility more affordable for the common citizen and reducing the carbon footprint of the twin cities.
3. Rural & Urban Infrastructure Upgrades
Arora’s proposal extends beyond the city center to the surrounding villages:
- Village Ponds & Gyms: He called for a dedicated budget for the rejuvenation of village ponds and the regular maintenance of rural gymnasiums to improve the quality of life for youth.
- The Ring Road Project: A major push was made for a ring road connecting Yamunanagar and Jagadhri to alleviate chronic traffic congestion and improve the movement of industrial goods.
- Anti-Drug Initiative: He sought budgetary support for a “Special Task Force” to curb substance abuse among the youth in the district.