Ambala Scientific Instruments Manufacturers Seek Central Government Support to Revive Struggling Industry

A delegation of scientific apparatus manufacturers in Ambala Cantonment has implored the Central government for support and favourable policies to revitalize their struggling local science industry. The Ambala Scientific Instruments Manufacturers' Association (ASIMA) emphasized several demands during a pre-Budget meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, citing concerns that would need immediate attention.

The association represents over 2,000 manufacturing units in the Ambala Cantonment, producing glassware, electronic products, educational instruments and scientific apparatus. These units generate an annual turnover exceeding Rs 3,000 crore. The plea for support is rooted in the industry's facing severe challenges on multiple fronts.

ASIMA president Vikram Choudhary stated that the quality of science kits procured by the National Centre for Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has been a major cause for concern. "Ambala's scientific industry faces numerous issues, including the low quality of kits purchased centrally by NCERT," he asserted. Prior to the centralized procurement, institutions would purchase products independently; however, this shift has led to substandard materials being procured.

The association has urged the government to appoint a competent authority from the National Physical Laboratory, New Delhi, to oversee quality standards for science kits. This crucial move aims to improve the industry's reputation and restore confidence in its products.

Furthermore, ASIMA president Vikram Choudhary called upon the government to reduce GST on glassware from 18% to 5%. He argued that reducing this rate would not only benefit Ambala's MSMEs but also encourage direct purchases among educational institutions and hospitals. "The reduction of GST will create a surge in customer inflow, fostering a thriving market for our products," he suggested.

With the pre-Budget meeting concluded, all eyes are now on the government to respond positively and provide necessary support to revive Ambala's struggling scientific instruments industry.