JAMMU: A deputation of farmers from Jammu border district, led by Rakesh Pant, General Secretary of BJP Kisaan Morcha, called on BJP President Sat Sharma CA to submit a memorandum seeking his help in exemption from the tax levied on tractors used for agricultural purposes.
The deputation expressed concern over the imposition of a 9 percent tax on Indian-made tractors used for agricultural activities within Jammu and Kashmir. According to the memorandum, the farmers pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been consistently promoting the use of India-made machinery to boost domestic manufacturing and support the 'Make in India' initiative. However, they argued that the current policy in Jammu and Kashmir contradicts this vision.
The farmers noted that the government has provided rebates on foreign-made tractors, while Indian-made tractors face heavy taxation, a practice not observed in any other state or union territory across the country. This disparity, the deputation stated, places an unfair burden on local farmers who are striving to make a livelihood through agriculture.
Sat Sharma CA assured the members of the deputation to take up the issue with the UT government to reconsider its stance and provide tax exemptions for tractors used exclusively for agricultural purposes, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of promoting indigenous machinery.
He assured the deputation that the matter would be actively pursued to seek a favorable resolution. He reiterated the party’s commitment to the welfare of farmers and highlighted various schemes implemented by the central government aimed at improving the agricultural sector.
Rakesh Pant said that the farmers are sure that their concerns will be addressed promptly, paving the way for a policy that supports their interests and promotes the use of Indian-made machinery. BJP Spokesperson Balbir Ram Rattan, Media Incharge Dr. Pardeep Mahotra and other party leaders were present on the occasion.
