The 6th meeting of the National Traders’ Welfare Board (NTWB) took place on May 20, 2025, at Vanijya Bhawan in New Delhi, focusing on strengthening India’s retail trade sector with an emphasis on grassroots participation and empowerment of small traders.
Shri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), highlighted the significant role that retail trade plays in the Indian economy. He urged Board members to contribute thoughtful and inclusive suggestions to help shape the National Retail Trade Policy, stressing the need to involve traders at the grassroots level to ensure the policy addresses real challenges faced by local businesses.
Chairing the meeting, Shri Sunil J. Singhi, Chairman of NTWB, reviewed key trader- and MSME-friendly announcements from the Union Budget 2025-26. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a supportive business environment through simpler regulations, financial aid, and better infrastructure. The occasion also saw the release of a special magazine, “Journey of the National Traders’ Welfare Board,” chronicling the Board’s milestones and achievements over the years.
A central theme of the discussion was the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign, designed to promote indigenous industries and locally made products. Shri Singhi called on all members to actively promote this initiative within their states and territories, and all attendees pledged to serve as ambassadors for the movement, aiming to broaden its impact nationwide.
Shri Singhi also emphasized the transformative power of digital technology in uplifting small traders. He encouraged widespread adoption of platforms like the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), which can expand market access and boost incomes for small retailers. Members were asked to support efforts to onboard local traders onto these digital platforms, ensuring their inclusion in India’s growing digital economy.
The Chairman noted that various concerns and suggestions from trade associations and Board members have already been forwarded to relevant government ministries for action. He welcomed further inputs to enhance awareness and reach of government welfare schemes benefiting the retail trade sector.
The meeting included non-official members nominated by the central government, representing trade associations and various states and union territories, alongside ex-officio members from nine key ministries and departments. This collaborative approach underscores the ongoing commitment to build a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous retail trade ecosystem across India.
