Bicycle manufacturers have asked Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to consider the creation of Technology Upgradation Fund (TUF) exclusively for the bicycle sector with a view to upgrade and modernise the industry.
The demand was raised by a delegation from Ludhiana’s trade and industry which met Mr. Manmohan Singh on Saturday to apprise him of the problems of the industry in Punjab, and the measures required to overcome the impediments coming in the way of state’s industry, a release said.
The delegation told the PM that TUF had been of great help to the textile industry as it had made it far more competitive. If a similar opportunity is offered to the bicycle industry, it could help it become more competitive and take the Chinese bicycle industry head on, the release said.
Vardhman Group Chairman S. P. Oswal, who was part of the delegation, appealed to the PM that women should be allowed to work in all the three shifts of industrial working and necessary amendments should be made in the law.
At present women are allowed to work from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Mr. Singh assured to look into the issue of allowing women workers to work round the clock like male workers. He asked the delegation to send a concept note on the issue for consideration by the government, the release said.
