Praveen Khandelwal, Member of Parliament from Chandni Chowk and Secretary General of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), has urged Delhi Chief Minister Mrs. Rekha Gupta to establish a “Delhi Economic Development Council” to boost economic and industrial activities in the capital.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, Mr. Khandelwal highlighted the lack of substantial economic and trade policy initiatives in Delhi over the past decade, leading to challenges for businesses, industries, and the service sector. He emphasized the urgent need for a dedicated, structured economic plan to generate new employment opportunities and position Delhi among the leading global cities.

Citing a recent report submitted by Mr. Keshav Verma, Chairman of the Central Government’s High-Level Committee on Urban Reforms, Mr. Khandelwal noted the recommendation for setting up “City Economic Development Councils” across major cities to achieve economic self-reliance. The Ministry of Finance is currently reviewing these suggestions.

Mr. Khandelwal stressed the importance of planned urban development, pointing out that most city expansions have occurred without proper planning, distorting urban character and limiting economic potential. He advocated for immediate action to reorganize Delhi’s economic framework through structured brownfield development and integrated planning.

He proposed that the Council should include senior government officials, trade bodies, industrial associations, and urban experts to ensure policies are rooted in ground realities and are effectively implemented.

Affirming the support of Delhi’s trading community, Mr. Khandelwal said, “We stand firmly with the Delhi Government and are committed to making Delhi the economic capital of India.”