6th Meeting of National Traders’ Welfare Board held in New Delhi

Newdelhi:21/5/25:The 6th meeting of the National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB) was convened at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi, on 20th May 2025.

During the meeting, Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Shri Sanjiv underscored the vital contribution of the retail trade sector to the Indian economy. He called upon the Board members to provide constructive and inclusive suggestions for the formulation of the National Retail Trade Policy, with a particular emphasis on participation from the grassroots level.

Chairman of the National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB), Shri Sunil J. Singhi chaired the meeting and outlined several trader- and MSME-centric announcements from the Union Budget 2025–26, reiterating the Government’s commitment to creating a conducive business ecosystem through simplification of regulatory processes, financial assistance, and infrastructure development. On this occasion, a special magazine titled “Journey of the National Traders’ Welfare Board” was released, documenting the milestones, initiatives, and achievements of the Board since its inception.

A key focus of the meeting was the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative aimed at promoting indigenous industries and locally manufactured goods. Shri Singhi urged all Board members to actively advocate for this initiative in their respective States and Union Territories. All members present took a symbolic pledge to act as ambassadors of the movement, thereby strengthening its reach and impact across the country.

Shri Singhi also emphasized the role of digital transformation in empowering India’s small traders. He encouraged the adoption of digital platforms like the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), noting that such initiatives can significantly enhance market access and income opportunities for small retailers. Members were urged to support the onboarding of local traders onto such platforms to ensure their integration into the digital economy.

The Chairman informed that various representations from trade associations and Board members had been forwarded to the concerned Ministries and Departments for appropriate action. He invited further suggestions to improve awareness and outreach of Government welfare schemes for the retail sector.