Shivaji suggests delicensing of cigarette industry

Guntur, Apr 6 (UNI) Distressed at the condition of tobacco farmers in Andhra Pradesh compared to their counterparts in Brazil and Zimbabwe, former Rajya Sabha Member and Indian Tobacco Growers Association President Y Shivaji today suggested delicensing cigarette manufacturing industry, compelling the cigarette manufacturers to export atleast 50 per cent of their production.

Talking to reporters here, Dr Shivaji said this will ensure a better return to the tobacco growers, in addition to earning decent revenue to the ex-chequer.

He alleged that vested interests in the country were creating hurdles for foreign direct investment in the tobacco processing industry taking advantage of the fact that cigarette manufacturing requires compulsory licencing under the developlment and regulation Act.

UNI