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Title: Problems being faced by the Small traders due to entry of multinational companies and larger business groups in the retail sector.
SHRI K. FRANCIS GEORGE : Sir, the entry of the multi-nationals and big business in the retail trade sector has created a very difficult situation. There has been very violent protest by the merchant associations and by various political parties. This is going to affect the livelihood of about 40 million retail trading community in the country. India has the high density of retail outlets in the world. Ninty eight per cent of the retail trade is done through unorganized sector, through the tiny family-owned shops, roadside kiosks, hawkers and street vendors. There are about half a million street vendors in urban India. Now a days, the big
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business groups – like Reliance Group, the RPG Group, the Aditya Birla Group, the Rahejas, the Wadias – are all into it. … (Interruptions)
MR. SPEAKER: Be silent. No cross talks, please.
SHRI K. FRANCIS GEORGE : I know, Sir, that we can’t prevent it. But, these people are creating shortages and price rise. They are cornering and stock-piling goods.
MR. SPEAKER: It is not a debate, Mr. George.
SHRI K. FRANCIS GEORGE : I think if we proceed at this rate, we are going to have suicide by small and medium retail trading community just like we are facing farmers’ suicide. So, I would request the Government to evolve a proper policy about the retail trade sector in this country so that we can protect these very ordinary and marginalized sections of the community
12.18 hrs.