CIEO Delegation Meets State Industry Minister – Pushes Reopening of NESCO

A CIEO delegation headed by Executive Director Ms Swpna Kulkarnii today met with State Industry Minister Shri Subhash Desai to push over very crucial issues which required immediate attention with desirable outcomes.

CIEO made a sincere attempt to draft SOP’s keeping in mind smooth restarting of Exhibition and the same has been presented to BMC officials for their further acceptance. Shri Subhash Desai responded positively informing that the state is ready to reopen the sector without any more restrictions.

CIEO has been pushing for opening of all Exhibitions Halls at NESCO Exhibition Centre, considering that many have moved out of Mumbai or indefinitely postponed exhibitions adding to existing loss of revenue for the state. Shri Subhash Desai ji confirmed with Shri Suresh Kakani – Addl. Municipal Commissioner (Western Subs.) that they have decided to vacate all Halls of NESCO Exhibition Centre and the process of the same will begin shortly.

During the meeting CIEO also raised concern over the charges applied against scrutiny fees for issuing of fire safety requirements by Fire Department, which is adding to a huge cost to the exhibitions in Mumbai – while the sector is already bearing losses due to no business for the past two years as a result of the pandemic.

Honourable Minister asked to meet with Hemant Parab – Chief Fire Officer for his feedback. The Gem & Jewelley Export Promotion Council (GEJPC) along with CIEO will make an immediate representation to the BMC in this regard.

Shri Desai, over phone later that the day confirmed with Mr M Q Syed, Steering Committee member of CIEO to have fast tracked all four demands of the CIEO.