28/05/2026
Jammu Printers' Association (Regd.), Jammu
Urgent Intervention Required to Safeguard Local Printing Industry in Jammu
We, the members of the J&K Offset Printers' Association and Jammu Printers Association, wish to draw the urgent attention of the Government of J&k, MSME Department, Sales Tax (GST) Authorities, GeM Portal Authorities, and Jammu University to the deteriorating condition of the local printing industry in Jammu.
Despite being registered under MSME and contributing significantly to employment and the state econorny, over 200 operational printing units in Jammu are currently facing an existential crisis.
Key Issues Faced by the Industry:
1. Violation of MSME Procurement Norms
Local printing units are not given preference as mandated under MSME procurement policies.
MSME units are becoming sick and are on the verge of turning NPAs due to lack of support.
2 Government Press Monopoly
A government notification mandates that all departments get printing jobs done through Government Press only.
This move has sidelined local printers and caused substantial business loss.
3. Unfair Tender Practices
Tender eligibility criteria, especially high turnover requirements (in crores), disqualify small and medium local units.
This results in favoritism and denial of fair competition.
4 Role of Jammu University (Case in Point)
GST disparity (12% vs 18%):
Leads to loss of business for local vendors and state revenue.
Makes local pricing uncompetitive compared to outside vendors.
Pending GeM payments: Payments are delayed beyond the mandatory 15-day GeM rule.
Improper usage of GeM Portal:
Single bid floated for bulk jobs (e.g., 25 books), which local vendors cannot fulfil completely.
Winning vendors are often forced to surrender jobs due to unviable ex*****on.
Outside State Vendor Privilege:
Vendors from other states (some even defaulters) fail to meet tender specs but are still entertained.
Local vendors, even when registered, are not allowed entry to raise concerns.
Substandard Deliveries Ignored:
Photostat copies are being accepted in place of fresh printed books from outside vendors.
Lack of Accountability:
No grievance redressal mechanism exists.
Job content/materials are not provided in time.
Officials are unaware or indifferent to these issues. Our Demands & Suggestions:
1. Price Preference & Procurement Support: Jammu, being a sensitive/disturbed region, deserves price and procurement preference for local vendors.
2. Fair Use of GeM Portal: Ensure strict adherence to GeM rules and time lines, including payment within 15 days.
3. Inclusive Tendering: Tailor tender eligibility to suit MSME norms, reducing unrealistic turnover criteria.
4. Transparency & Accountability:
Establish a grievance cell to hear and resolve industry issues.
Ensure department-level transparency in job allocation and vendor communication.
We urge the government to take immediate and meaningful steps to address these issues. Failure to do so may result in the collapse of a vital sector that supports hundreds of families and significantly contributes to the local economy.
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