Our History

Seventy Five years ago when the association was set up, the aim was to serve the interest of the paper traders. Since then the Paper Traders' Association (PTA) has always maintained a practice approach to encourage, promote and protect the interest of its members. The work done by the association is something which holds strong. Read it further to have a through insight for the years gone by.  

2015

PTA Board Dealers Committee & Coated Dealers Committee Was formed for recovery of dues & was very much successful to the benefit of members.

2014

Shri Rajen Aythora received the Shri Badluram Gupta Award For Long Term Contribution to the cause of paper Trade. (FPTA)

2013

  1. Office have been shifted in our Own Premises.

     

  2. Shri Ramesh Desai announced the Award of Best Managing Committee Member Rs. 1,00,000/- (PTA)

     

  3. Shri Mehul Mehta received Late Shri Himmatlal & Co Award as Best Vice-President. (FPTA)

     

  4. Shri Samji Karia received award of Founder President Jethmal Thakur Singh Lalwani Memorial Award. (FPTA)

     

  5. In 2013, for Opposing LBT, PTA Members closed their respective business for 15 days.

     

  6. LBT removed by Government All over Maharashtra except in Mumbai.

     

Grand opening of The Paper Traders’ Association’s New Office
 1st August, 2013 marked a big day in the history of PTA. The new office of the Association was inaugurated by Shri Ramesh Desai, Past President. All the senior dignitaries Shri V. D. Goenka, Shri Vishnu Munyal etc. were present at the occasion which started with Vastu Pooja. The office was a dream come true for the Mumbai paper trading fraternity. The office has proved to be a big boon due to ideal location leading to convenience to members and better participation in meetings.

2013 – LBT (Local Body Tax)
 LBT was introduced in Maharashtra. FAM (Federation of Associations of Maharashtra) called for an Indefinite Strike all over the state from 03/05/2013 to protest against implementation of LBT. The Paper Traders’ Association Mumbai Members called for an urgent meeting on 02/05/2013 and all members unanimously decided to shut shops and godowns and stop all deliveries and despatches from Godowns and Mills indefinitely. Local Committees were formed in each area to check strict adherence to the strike call. The strike was hugely successful and went on for 15 days.

The Paper Traders’ Association held a Seminar on “Sales Tax & VAT” by Shri Ratan Samal well known advocate who enlightened members on various issues from legal point of view and also cleared many of their doubts regarding Transit Sales under Section 6(2) of CST Act and related Supreme Court Judgement.

2012

  1. Shri Kalyan Mal Kabra of M/s. Vinayak Enterprise announced award in name of Late Smt. Vimla Devi Kalyan Mal Kabra award to be given to Hon Treasurer. (PTA)

     

  2. Shri Mehul Mehta received Late Shri Himmatlal & Co Award as Best Vice-President. (FPTA)

     

  3. The Paper Traders’ Association (Regd.) Mumbai received Shri D. P. Sabu Award as a Best Association. (FPTA)

     

  4. Shri Dhiraj Karia received the Award of Shri Uggar Sain Jain Award for Best President.

     

2011

Shri Ashok Java received Late Shri Himmatlal & Co Award as a Best Vice-President. (FPTA)

2010

  1. M/s. T. K. Ruby & Co. (I) Award announced by Shri Samji Karia Rs. 50000/- To be awarded to a person for his long time contribution to the cause of paper trade. This award was given to Shri Ramesh Desai of M/s. R. Desai & Co. (PTA)

     

  2. Shri Devji Shivji Karia Award announced by M/s. Shah Devji Shivji & Co. to be awarded to Hon. Secretary of PTA Rs. 50000/- Award was given to Hon Secretary. (PTA)

     

2009

  1. PTA made History in Golden Jubilee year of FPTA.

     

  2. First time in FPTA history, The Trader was selected as Chief Guest selected Shri Vasudeo Goenka, M/s. Zenith Distributors.

     

  3. In this Meeting Managing Committee Members, (Mumbai) performed on Stage.

     

  4. Late Shri Jayantilal Shah Award received by Shri Samji Karia, M/s. T. K. Ruby & Co. (FPTA).

     

  5. Shri Mehul Mehta was given a Special Award by then FPTA President Shri Rajeev Agarwal for his exemplary work as the Hon Secretary of FPTA.

     

  6. This Year Late Shri Hasmukh Chimanlal Shah declared The Legacy Award of Rs. 1,00,000/- award was given to Shri Harshad Shah & Shri Rajeev Shah. (FPTA)

     

  7. Shri Priyesh Desai received Jaina Shaleen Ramesh Chandaka Award. (FPTA)

     

  8. Shri Samji Karia received Shri Badluram Gupta Award. (FPTA)

     

  9. Opposed for Safe Guard Duty.

     

  10. Shri Harshad P. Shah received the Rasiklal B. Parikh Award. (FPTA)

     

2008

  1. Shri Harshad Shah received Shri Himmatial & Co award as a Best Vice-President. (FPTA)

     

  2. Shri Samji Karia received Shri Jayantilal Shah Award as Best Managing Committee Member. (FPTA)

     

  3. Smt. Kasturidevi Ram Billas Khandelwal Award given to PTA, Mumbai.

     

  4. Shri Hasit Shah received award of Shobha Cards On time Souvenir Publishing Award. (FPTA)

     

  5. Shri Harshad Shah & Jimit Shah received Legacy Award. (FPTA)

     

Safe Guard Duty
 In the year 2008 Govt. of India was planning to impose Safe Guard Duty against Import of Paper and Board. During this time PTA and FPTA fought tooth and nail and were successful in stopping imposing of Safe Guard Duty.

2007

Shri Harshad Shah received Shri Himmatlal & Co award as a Best Vice-President. (FPTA)

 

2006

Shri Harshad Shah received Shri Himmatlal & Co award as a Best Vice-President. (FPTA)

2005

  1. Our Association had generously donated towards the Tsunami Relief Fund to Association & the amount collected Rs. 2,00,000/- were given to Prem Puri Ashram for relief work.

  2. FPTA 43rd AGM received 3 Awards were received by PTA members
    • Shri Badiuram Gupta Award long time cause of Paper Trader was received by Shri Vasudeo Goenka.
    • Late Shri Jayantilal Shah Award received by Shri Jagdishkumar Shah, M/s. Ravi Paper Mart.
    • Himmatlal & Co Award received by Shri Gaurang Mehta, M/s. Kosmos Paper Stores.

  3. Published the New Communication Directory, dedicated to Late Shri Taru J. Lalwani & Late Shri Bajranglal Dalmia.

  4. Value Added Tax was introduced & members were educated on the same through various circulars & Publications.

2004

• Shri Gaurang Mehta received Late Shri Himmatlal & Co Award as a Best Vice-President. (FPTA)
• Shri Jagdish Kumar Shah received, Shri Jayantilal Shah Award as Best Managing Committee Member. (FPTA)
• Shri Vasudeo Goenka received the award for long term contribution to the cause of Paper Trade Shri Badiuram Gupta Award. (FPTA)

  1. FPTA Late Shri Rasiklal B. Parikh award received by Shri Vishnu Munyal, M/s. Shivam Paper Mart.

  2. Shri Badluram Gupta Award was given to Hasmukh C Shah, M/s. Chimanlal Fein Papers Ltd.

  3. Late Shri Jayantilal Shah Award received by Shri Harshad Shah, M/s. P Rikhavdas & Co.

2003

• Harshad P Shah received Shri Jayantilal Shah Award as Best Managing Committee Member (FPTA).
• Shri Hasmukh Shah received Shri Badluram Gupta Award for long term contribution to the cause of Paper Trade. (FPTA)
• Shri Ramesh Desai received Jaina Shaleen Ramesh Chandaka Award.

2002

• Members Telephone & helpline pocket book & Red Defaulter Book was Published.
• R.K. Agarwal received late Shri Himmatlal & Co Award as Best Vice-President.
• PTA received Smt. Kasturidevi Rambilas Khandelwal Award.

2001

• Shri Harshad P Shah received, Shri Jayantilal Shah Award as Best Managing Committee Member Award (FPTA)
• Shri Hasmukh C Shah received the award for long term contribution to the cause of Paper Trade Shri Badluram Gupta Award. (FPTA)
• Jaina Shaleen Ramesh Chandaka Award given to Ramesh Desai, M/s. R. Desai & Co.

2000

• Shri Samji Karia received Late Shri Himmatlal & Co Award as a Best Vice-President. (FPTA)
• Shri Ramesh Desai received the award for long term contribution to the cause of Paper Trade Shri Badluram Gupta Award. (FPTA)

1999

• Shri Hemant O. Parekh received Late Shri Himmatlal & Co award as a Best Vice-President. (PTA)

1996

Shri Prahladrai Dalmia Award (Promoting Technical Knowledge about the Paper Industry & Trade. Rs. 21000/-) was announced.

1995

  1. Smt. Laxmidevi Nathmal Goenka Charity Fund (Calamity Rs. 25000/-) announced. (PTA)

  2. Shri Jagdish Kumar S Shah received Shri Jayantilal Shah Award. (FPTA)

1994

  1. Shri Vishnu Munyal received award of Founder President Jethmal Thakur Singh Lalwani Memorial award. (FPTA)

  2. Shri Rasiklal B. Parikh received the Shri Badluram Gupta award for long term contribution to the cause of Paper Trade. (FPTA)

1993

Shri Vishnu Munyal received Late Shri Himmatlal & Co award as Best Vice-President. (FPTA)

1992

Shri Ramesh Desai received Late Shri Himmatlal & Co award as Best Vice-President. (FPTA)

991

  • PTA (Mumbai) received Shri D. P. Sabu Award as the Best Association (FPTA).

1990 – Golden Jubilee Year

  • Entered 50th year – milestone heading to Golden Jubilee.

  • Printed Wall Calendar (since 1990, continued in 1991).

  • PTA diary (since 1987) continued.

  • Pleasure Trip to Goa (17–22 Jan 1991).

  • Land acquisition efforts in Navi Mumbai – ~350 members deposited ₹1000 each.

  • Ongoing issues:

    • Frequent hikes in paper/board prices.

    • Unfair trade practices.

    • Monopolistic distribution.

    • Sick paper mills & deposits.

    • Ban on import of coated papers.

    • Proposal to replace sales tax with additional excise duty.

  • R. B. Parikh Award instituted (₹11,000) for member service to trade.

  • Mass Rally (9 Jan 1990) against Octroi – all trade, industry, transport participated.

  • Govt. introduced Maharashtra General Entry Tax Act, 1990, rejected by Action Committee.

  • BMC increased Octroi from 2% → 3% (June 1989).

1989–1988

  • 1989–1990: Shock over Octroi hike (2% → 3%) despite govt. assurances.

  • 1988:

    • Hosted FPTA Committee Meeting (Garware Club House, Bombay, Sept 10–11).

    • Protested against Direct Tax Laws (Amendment) Act, 1987 – Maharashtra Bandh (28 Jan 1988).

    • Continued unresolved issues: Storage Licence, Octroi, Profession Tax.

1987

  • Year of Protests & Bandhs.

  • BMC again proposed Octroi hike (2% → 3%) effective 1 Apr 1987 → Opposed, kept in abeyance.

  • 24 Jan 1987: FAM organised Sampurna Maharashtra Rajya Vyapari Parishad.

  • 25 May 1987 onwards: Indefinite Bandh until abolition of Octroi.

  • First time all major Chambers (IMC, MCC, BCCI, AIMO, etc.) united.

  • Govt. promised abolition of Octroi by 31 May 1988, committee under Shri P. D. Kasbekar formed.

  • K. C. Goel Award instituted (₹11,000) to retiring President annually (from Dec 1988).

1986

  • Called Year of Extra-ordinary Meetings.

  • 14 June: Meeting convened to enforce Indefinite Bandh (15 June 1986) for Octroi abolition.

  • 22 June: Meeting on proposed Turnover Tax in Maharashtra Budget (1986–87).

1985

  • Raised concerns on monopolistic distribution by certain mills.

  • Took matter to MRTP Commission, PM, Union Ministers, FPTA, FICCI.

  • Membership fee & subscription increased (effective 1 Jan 1986):

    • Admission fee: ₹251 → ₹501.

    • Annual subscription: ₹100 (Bombay) / ₹80 (Mofussil) → ₹150 (all).

1984

  • Hosted Silver Jubilee Conference of FPTA (Sea Rock Hotel, Bombay – 24–26 March).

  • Conference included:

    • Business sessions + entertainment.

    • Memorabilia publication, Silver Coin, and Souvenir issued.

1983

  • Major event: Paper Trade–Industry Interface Meeting (FICCI, Delhi, 30 Sept 1983).

  • J. M. Batliboi represented PTA.

  • Panel formed: 3 reps from FPTA + 3 reps from industry.

  • Writ petition filed in Bombay HC on Municipal Storage Licence, later withdrawn pending Study Group report.

  • Octroi issue referred to Study Group.

  • Flood Relief Fund (Konkan & Saurashtra) – Collected ₹43,069:

    • CM Relief Fund (Maharashtra): ₹15,201

    • Gram Vikas Trust (Ahmedabad): ₹13,921

    • Ramkrishna Mission (Rajkot): ₹13,947

1982

  • Efforts continued to delete Paper & Board from Schedule M (BMC Act) re: Storage Licence.

  • BMC revised Octroi (1 Jan 1982) from Specific → Ad-valorem.

    • PTA opposed via telegrams, representations, token strike (16 June 1982).

    • Study Group formed; J. M. Batliboi nominated as trade representative.

  • Publications:

    1. Supplementary Telephone Index.

    2. 2nd edition “Paper Calculator”.

    3. Updated Membership List.

    4. Booklet on Paper Trade Customs (India, UK, Sweden, Norway).

    5. Register of authorised wholesalers/stockists (Bombay).

  • Relief Fund collected ₹13,997:

    • PM Relief Fund (U.P., Bihar, Orissa): ₹7,551

    • Gram Vikas Trust (Ahmedabad): ₹2,867

    • Dr. Jivraj Mehta Trust (Amreli): ₹2,569

    • Mayor’s Relief Fund (Bombay): ₹1,010

  • First Study Tour abroad (SE Asia) – 14 members participated.

    1981: The problem of Bombay Municipal, Storage Licences for Paper and Boards under schedule ‘M’ was still a painful affair. The Association was vigorously continuing the efforts for the deletion of our items from the purview of Schedule ‘M’. In the meanwhile, we learnt that the Government was considering the matter of revising Schedule ‘M’ and a Study group was appointed for this purpose, wherein our Shri Jamshedji M. Batliboi had been appointed as one of the representatives of the Trade by the Indian Merchants’ Chamber.

    A very useful publication the New Telephone Index Book of our members was published during the year. Each member was given a copy free.

    Address by Eminent Speakers

    New vistas were opened for our members to broaden their knowledge and outlook. Eminent speakers were invited to the office of our Association to give talks on the subject of their forte as follows:

    (1) Shri J. S. Bhole, Chairman and Shri Arondekar, Secretary, Mathadi Labour Board on 12-5-1981 on the subject of Difficulties and Problems of Mathadi Labour in Paper Trade.

    (2) Shri M. R. Subramanian, Acting Director of Indian Institute of Packaging on 5-6-1981 on the subject of role & requirements of Paper in the Packaging Industry.

    (3) Shri Mahendra H. Gami Hon. Sales Tax Adviser of our Association on 27-6-1981 on the subject of Maharashtra Sales Tax Amendment Act 1981 and Rules and their implications as well as the 46th Constitutional Amendment Bill 1981 and its implications.

    (4) Shri R. S. Parsicha, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) on 3-7-1981 on the subject of his impressions and appraisals of Traffic Problems of Metropolitan Cities of the World, various Traffic problems and their possible solutions.

    (5) Shri V. B. Ganatra, an eminent Supreme Court Advocate, on 25-7-1981 on the subject of Draconian Provision of the Essential commodities (Special Provisions) Bill 1981.

    (6) Shri D. M. Sukthankar, Municipal Commission on 8-8-1981 on the subject of Tremendous task of Bombay Municipal Corporation in solving the ever mounting problem of fast expanding Metropolitan City of Bombay.

    (7) Shri A. U. Memon, Mayor of Bombay on 25-9-1981, on the subject of Working of Bombay Municipal Corporation Past, Present and Future.

    (8) Smt. Sharayuben Daftary, First Lady President of the Indian Merchants’ Chamber, Bombay on 3-12-1981 on the subject of Current Business Situation.

    (9) Dr. B. K. Goyal, a leading Consulting Cardiologist and ex-Sheriff of Bombay on the subject of his experiences as Sheriff of Bombay and on heart ailments.

    Owing to increases in expenses, it was once again felt necessary to increase the annual subscription for Bombay Member from Rs. 75/- to Rs. 100/- and for Mofussil Members from Rs. 60/- to 80/- with effect from 1-1-1982. This was done by an amendment in the Constitution of our Association during an Extra-ordinary General Meeting held on 29-12-1981.

    1980: The year 1980 was comparatively a quiet one. No doubt, crucial questions of our trade such as (a) difficult supply position of certain varieties of paper, (b) distribution system (c) price etc were taken up with our Federation and others concerned in all earnestness. Vigorous and concerted efforts were made for the deletion of paper and Board items from the purview of Schedule ‘M’ with the authorities and others concerned.

    It was Indeed a matter of joy and pride for us that our Association was co-opted this year to the Managing Committee of the Indian Merchant’s Chamber. It was in the fitness of things that the honour of representing our Association on the Managing Committee of the Chamber was given to Shri Jamshedji M. Batliboi, Ex-President of our association.

    1979: This year began with our Association becoming a member of the newly formed Federation of Association of Maharashtra. At the call of the Federation, our Association decided to join the protest ‘Hartal – Closure’ of business on 10-1-1979 to register and record a strong protest against the go-slow tactics and work-to-rule attitude of the Bank employees of the nationalized Banks who were holding the public and the Bank customers to ransom.

    During the year, the wage rates of the piece-rated workers in the paper trade were revised from 1-2-1979 and the levy was also increased from 23% to 26% with effect from 1-3-1979. Our troubles did not end there. By their letter dated.

    12-9-1979 addressed to the Secretary, Metal (excluding from Iron & Steel) and Paper Markets & shops Mathadi Labour Board for Greater Bombay, with a copy to our Association, the Maharashtra Kagad & General Kamgar Union Bombay, served a notice of strike to be started from 1-1-1979. Efforts were made by our Association to avert the strike by holding meeting at the Mathadi Labour Board, who are the final authority, in the matter. The efforts of the Association proved fruitless because of the rigid attitude of the Labour Union and the Union Workers went on strike From 1-10-1979

    Finally on the 27th day of the strike, with the kind intervention of the Chief Minister, Shri Sharad Pawar, the strike was called off as some revision in the rates as suggested by the Chief Minister were accepted by both the sides.

    Agitation against New Maharashtra Sales Tax Bill 1978

    The new Maharashtra Sales Tax Bill 1978 (now an Act) was responsible for agitation by every trade and business organisation because of its retrograde, unjust obnoxious and draconian feature, Opposition to the Bill was mounting up. Federation of Association of Maharashtra, Bombay to which our Association is affiliated, was spearheading the opposition. To abide by a call given by the Federation, our Association asked all our members to close their shops, offices and godowns and observe a Bandh on 24-3-1979. Our Association participated whole- heartedly in implementing all the directive of the Federation. The Association also asked each member to contribute a token amount of Rs. 100/- as contribution toward a fund for fighting tooth and nail the New Sales Tax Act legally through the Federation. An Action Committee had been constituted by our Association to take care of this important matter.

    Schedule ‘M’ of the Bombay Municipal Act, as revised came into effect from 26-11-1979. Our items of Paper and Boards have been covered by it. Our Association had taken up the matter with the authorities concerned to delete the items of Paper and Boards.

    Unprecedented floods in some parts of Vidarbha (Maharashtra) and Morvi (Gujarat) brought untold misery to many people there. To help the flood affected victims a total collection of Rs. 99,659/- including Rs. 1,001/- from the Association, was made and was disbursed as follows: Rs. 21,104/- towards Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, Maharashtra, for the relief and rehabilitation of the flood stricken areas of Vidarbha and Rs. 78,555/- to Gujarat Rajya Rahat Samiti, Ahmedabad, for the relief and rehabilitation of the flood stricken areas of Morvi.

    1978: During this year the paper trade was going through a trying period – malpractices in the sale and distribution of paper were rampant. Our Association appealed to all the members to refrain from entering into such transactions involving anti-social and anti-trade practices.

    On 17th October 1978, an Extra-ordinary General Meeting of the members of our Association was held at the Indian Merchants’ Chamber to discuss and consider the grave crisis facing the trade arising out of frequent increase in paper prices, irregular and inadequate supplies of paper, distribution system and malpractice. Being of paramount importance, this meeting was well attended and two resolutions were unanimously adopted. This was followed up by appointing an Action and Implementation Committee. Many meetings of this Committee were held and it was gratifying to note that it had a salutary effect and the grave crisis then facing the paper trade was averted.

    Scheme for Mathadi Workers

    Our Association has been giving full co-operation to the Scheme for Mathadi Workers as applied to our Paper Trade and our representatives on the Board are ever vigilant and active taking up the various issues and difficulties experienced by the paper trade in the implementation of the scheme. Despite our efforts, however, the levy on the wages was increased twice during the year from 17% to 20% in June 1978 and from 20% to 23% with effect from 1-11-1978. Our members were advised to pay the increased levy under protest and the Association sought legal advice and pursued the matter.

    In response to our appeal we had received substantial donations for Gujarat Flood Relief. In the meantime, the devastating cyclone in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, causing heavy loss of human lives and property, overshadowed the Gujarat flood calamity. It was, therefore, decided to convert the Gujarat Flood Relief Fund sponsored by the Association into National Calamities Relief Fund. Out of the collections of Rs. 69,157/- a cheque for Rs. 50,000/- was presented to Shri Sadiq Ali, Governor of Maharashtra, at a special function at Tejpal Auditorium at 4 p.m. on 4-4-1978 earmarking the amount for the relief of flood stricken areas in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Another cheque for Rs. 15,453/- was handed over to Shri Pravinchandra V. Gandhi, President of Gujarat Rajya Rahat Samiti, Bombay, at the same function for helping the flood stricken areas in Gujarat. The balance amount of Rs. 3,704/- was subsequently sent to Gujarat Rajya Rahat Samiti, Bombay for the relief of the flood victims of North Gujarat. In September 1978, a further calamity took place in certain parts of Northern India and West Bengal. The Association collected Rs. 6,164/- including Rs. 1001/- from its own funds for this humanitarian cause too.

    1977: During the year we had duly taken up the crucial questions of our trade such as (a) difficult supply position of certain varieties of paper (b) distribution system (c) prices (d) concessional papers etc. with our Federation and others concerned. We had also addressed a suitable letter on 5th April 1977 to the then Prime Minister, Shri Morarji Desai, in the matter of maintaining the prices in our trade in response to his general appeal to business and industrial community.

    Certain changes and amendments in the Constitution and Rules and Regulation of the Association, were adopted. The annual subscription for the Greater Bombay Members was increased from Rs. 60/- to Rs. 75/- and the Mofussil Members from Rs. 40/- to Rs. 60/-.

    “The Paper Calculator” published by our Association in November 1976, was in such a great demand from paper trade, industry and allied lines, not only in Bombay but also in other parts of the country, that it was left necessary to reprint it.

    To keep our members abreast of the facts and developments in the paper trade, a copy each of the following publications was sent to all our members free:

    Vocabulary – Paper, Board, pulp and Related Terms – International Standards (b) A Report on Requirements of White Printing Paper – A study conducted by the Institute of Economic & Market Research, New Delhi – published for and on behalf of Development Council for Paper, Pulp and Allied Industries and (c) A list of Existing Paper Mills in India as on 1-1-1977 and other information.

    1976: The most significant event about which our Association can legitimately take pride during this year, was Federation which was held at Matheran for three days on 20th, 21st and 22nd March 1976 under our auspices. The Conference was inaugurated on 20th March by the eminent and veteran paper trader, Shri K. T. Shahani, Managing Partner of M/s. East India Paper Co., Bombay. The Conference was a great success with the help and co-operation of all our members and friends. An attractive and informative Souvenir was also published to commemorate the occasion.

    The Union Government Budget presented to the Parliament on 15th March 1976, brought about a complete change in the pattern of excise duty on paper and paper board viz form specific duty to ad valorem. This matter was strongly taken up by with the then Union Finance Minister, Shri C. Subramaniam, by our representation in the Telegram dated 18th March 1976 followed up by a Memorandum.

    An increase in the wages of the Mathadi workers as applied to our trade was passed by majority representing employees’ representatives, despite the best efforts of our representatives on the Board. The levy also was increased from 14% to 17% with effect 1-7-1976.

    Paper Calculator and other publications

    As a result of relentless efforts and strenuous labour, we had been able to bring out a very useful and indispensable publication “The Paper Calculator” which can be called without any exaggeration as the Guide for the paper trade each member of the Association was given a copy of this book free. This publication was release at the hands of our Ex-president Shri Jamshedji M. Batliboi of M/s. Jamshedji Ratanji & Co.

    1975: The vital problems of our trade such as identification of paper at concessional rates, broad based distribution, fall in prices, paper (Control of production) Order 1974, huge deposits etc. were duly taken up with our Federation and others concerned. At an extra-ordinary general meeting held on 26-12-1975, the matter of the present situation of the paper trade was fully discussed.

    Packaged Commodities Regulation Order

    Suitable advice and guidance was given to the members in the matters of packaged Commodities Regulation Order Government of India 1975 Essential Commodities Act 1975 and new profession Tax 1975 in Maharashtra.

    Flood Relief Fund

    A Flood Relief Fund was started by the Association and a total amount of Rs. 39,069/- was collected from the members, which was disbursed as follows: (a) a cheque for Rs. 21,000/- was handed over in person to Shri Babubhai J. Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat for helping the victims of flood stricken areas of Gujarat and Saurashta, (b) another cheque for Rs. 15,007/- was sent to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund for the flood stricken areas of our country.

    1974: Paper Control Orders on production as well as consumption, as issued by the Government of India, were duly circulated to the members.

    Mathadi Labour Strike Settlement

    The Sub-committee appointed for the purpose of labour demands held continuous discussions with the Mathadi Labour Board and its sub-committee at their various meetings and arrived at some points of understanding. However, the Kangar Mandal went on Strike from 1-8-1974. In spite of the unjustified strike, we continued to keep an open mind. An extra-ordinary general meeting of the Association was held on 9-8-1974 to consider the latest position of the strike of Manual Workers in our trade, where a suitable resolution in the matter was unanimously adopted. The meeting was very well attended. In the meanwhile the negotiations in the matter proved fruitful and the points of understanding were arrived at on 16-8-1974 and the strike was called off.

    Out of the collections made for the flood relief fund, it was decided at a meeting held on 4-10-1974 that a sum of Rs. 43,741/- be utilised for Famine Relief. Accordingly, a cheque for Rs. 43,741/- was sent to Shri Ravi Shanker Maharaj, President, Gujarat Relief Samiti.

    1973: The Association took up the crucial matter of proper distribution of indigenous paper. Suitable guidelines were given to our Federation in several meetings, formal and informal, held with the representatives of the Industry and others concerned. Suitable representations were also sent to the Government authorities for banning exports of all items of paper and use of white printing paper by newspapers.

    Implementation of Mathadi Labour Scheme

    Fresh demands submitted in November 1973 by the Mumbai Kagaz Bazar Kamgar Mandal were considered by the Association, and although some of the demands were exorbitant, the Association took into consideration the rising costs of living and with a view to maintaining harmonious relations between the member employers and the workers, and ad-hoc increase of 15% over the basic piece rate was granted effective from January 1974.

    The Maharashtra Government applied the scheme for mathadi workers in the paper and Metal market from 1st March 1973 and the Association had given full co-operation in the implementation of this scheme. The necessary directives are issued to the members from time to time in the interest of harmonious relations between the trade and the workers.

    A total amount of Rs. 1,10,042/- was collected by the Association for the relief of drought affected areas of our country and was distributed as follows: (a) Shri Sadguru Seva Sangh Rs. 43,041/- (b) Shri Ravi Shankar Maharaj Rs. 41,000/- (Gujarat Dushkal Rahat Samiti), (c) Shri Marwari Relief Society Rs. 21,000/- and (d) Shri Sakambari Trust Rs. 5,000/-

    Medical Aid Fund

    The scope of “Members and Employees and Employees’ Children Education Aid Fund” was enlarged to cover medical aid and the Fund was accordingly renamed “Members and Employees and Employees’ Children Education and Medical Aid Fund.

    1972: Mathadi Labour-strike Memorandum of Settlement 1972

    Labour Demands’ received from Bombay Kagaz Bazar Kamgar Mandal called for top most priority and three extra ordinary general meetings were held to consider the matter and to review the position arisen for the strike of labour in the paper trade and to discuss the Memorandum of Settlement reached.

    Sales tax on Art Paper and other superior varieties of paper was increased from 5% to 10% in the Maharashtra State Government budget proposals. In June 1972 the Association took up this matter with the authorities

    Concerned and a deputation was also sent to Shri M. D. Chaudahary, Minister of Finance, Government of Maharashtra, on 11th July 1972 but to no avail. The enhanced sales tax of 10% came into force from 1-10-1972.

    1971: Contribution to National Defence Fund 1971

    On 3rd June 1971 a memorandum was addressed to Shri Moinul Haque Choudhari, Union Minister of Industrial Development and Internal Trade, New Delhi, in the matter of indigenous papers. This was followed by a suitable representation on 26th July 1971.

    Pakistani aggression during the year created a national emergency. Our Association was in the forefront to help the Government in the defence efforts. Suitable appeal was made to the members to contribute their mite to the National Defence Fund and Association gave the lead by donating Rs. 1001/-.

    Floods in Saurashtra wrought havoc and to rehabilitate the flood affected families of village Panda Tirth in Surendranagar Dist. (Saurashtra) a cheque for Rs. 22,500/- was handed over to Shri Arvind N. Mafatal. Another cheque for Rs. 10,000/- was also handed over to Shri Chimanlal Chakubhai Shah, Hon. Secretary of Shri Mahavir Kalyan Kendra, Bombay for helping the flood- stricken people in Saurashtra.

    1960: Import Licences Validity Enhanced
    Due to persistent efforts, the validity period of April/September 1960 licences was extended from 6 months to 9 months. Import of writing paper was allowed against printing paper licences, and import of “Ivory Card” was permitted against quota licences of Boards. The Association also pursued issues regarding export promotion licences for paper items, import of paper items excluding newsprint by the State Trading Corporation, their distribution, and actual users’ licences.

    All these achievements were largely attributed to the indefatigable and fearless leadership of Shri B. M. Choksi, President during that year.

    1959: First Conference of FPTA
    The first Conference of the Federation of Paper Traders’ Association of India (FPTA) was inaugurated on 16th February 1959 in Bombay under the auspices of the Association by Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri, then Union Minister for Commerce and Industry.

    Delegates from 17 Paper Traders’ Associations from Calcutta, Madras, Delhi, U.P., Allahabad, Kanpur, Agra, M.P., Punjab, Bombay, Ahmedabad, Baroda, Poona, Madurai, Bihar, Mysore, and Kerala attended. Programs like Dinner, Tea Party, Cultural Programme, Excursion, and visit to Papco Mills at Khopoli were successfully organized. The Constitution of FPTA was passed, and important resolutions regarding paper trade problems were unanimously adopted.

    A fund named “Members’ Employees and Employees’ Children Education Aid Fund” was started with an initial amount of Rs. 37,533.74 to support education of members’ employees and their children.

    For flood relief, Rs. 33,281/- including Rs. 1,001/- from the Association was collected for the flood-stricken areas of Surat and forwarded to the Bombay Citizens’ Committee for Flood Relief through the Indian Merchants’ Chamber.

    1958: Formation of Newsprint & Distribution Corporation Ltd.
    During 1958, 24 Managing Committee Meetings and 4 General Meetings were held to discuss urgent trade matters. The Newsprint Trading and Distributing Corporation Ltd., Bombay, was incorporated for import and distribution of newsprint acquired from the State Trading Corporation or any other body.

    The idea of forming an apex body of all Paper Traders’ Associations of India was mooted by the Association. Shri Chimanlal P. Shah, then President, organized preliminary meetings of prominent paper traders, paving the way for the Federation of Paper Traders’ Association of India.

    1957: Imports Banned & Federation of Paper Traders’ Associations
    The July/September 1957 import policy completely stopped all imports of paper and board due to critical foreign exchange position.

    A preliminary meeting of representatives from Bihar, Punjab, Delhi, Madras, Baroda, and Ahmedabad discussed draft rules for the proposed Federation of Paper Traders’ Association of India. An Ad Hoc Committee was appointed to convene the first Conference of FPTA.

    1956: Uniform Specific Customs Duty at All Ports
    The Association addressed authorities regarding import trade control and requested increased quotas for paper items, but quotas were slashed for January/June 1957 due to foreign exchange difficulties.

    A silver lining was achieved when the Association successfully lobbied for correct specific duty rates on all qualities of writing and printing papers at all ports. Donations of Rs. 11,293/- were collected for the Kutch-Anjar Relief Fund.

    1960: Import Licences Validity Enhanced

    • Validity period of April/September 1960 licences extended from 6 to 9 months.

    • Import of writing paper allowed against printing paper licences.

    • Import of “Ivory Card” permitted against quota licences of Boards.

    • Export promotion licences and actual users’ licences issues pursued with authorities.

    • Achievements credited to Shri B. M. Choksi, President.

    1959: First Conference of FPTA

    • 16–17 February 1959: First Conference of the Federation of Paper Traders’ Association of India held in Bombay.

    • Inaugurated by Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry.

    • Delegates from 17 Paper Traders’ Associations attended.

    • Constitution of FPTA passed; resolutions on paper trade problems unanimously adopted.

    • Surplus funds from Souvenir publications earmarked for Members’ Employees and Employees’ Children Education Aid Fund (initial Rs. 37,533.74).

    • Rs. 33,281 collected for flood relief in Surat.

    1958: Formation of Newsprint & Distribution Corporation Ltd.

    • 24 Managing Committee meetings and 4 General Meetings held.

    • Newsprint Trading and Distributing Corporation Ltd., Bombay, incorporated for import and distribution of newsprint.

    • Apex body of all Paper Traders’ Associations proposed; preliminary meetings led to formation of FPTA.

    • Shri Chimanlal P. Shah, President, played key role.

    1957: Imports Banned & FPTA Initiatives

    • July/September 1957 import policy completely stopped all imports of paper and board due to foreign exchange concerns.

    • Preliminary meeting held with representatives from Bihar, Punjab, Delhi, Madras, Baroda, Ahmedabad to form Federation of Paper Traders’ Associations of India (FPTA).

    • Ad Hoc Committee appointed to organize first FPTA Conference.

    1956: Uniform Specific Customs Duty

    • Communications sent to authorities regarding import trade control and quota increases; unsuccessful.

    • Government slashed quotas for Jan/June 1957 due to foreign exchange difficulties.

    • Association succeeded in getting uniform specific duty on all qualities of writing and printing papers at all ports.

    • Rs. 11,293 collected for Kutch-Anjar Relief Fund.

    1951–1955: Newsprint Control Order

    1955

    • Government restored 10% cut in writing and printing papers.

    • Ban on paper-backed aluminum foil removed.

    • Quotas granted: Transparent Paper (33-1/3%) and Kraft Paper (75%).

    • Newsprint removed from OGL; channelled through State Trading Corporation.

    1953–1954

    • Customs demanded writing paper licences for printing paper clearance; solved by issuing interchangeable licences.

    1952

    • Misuse of Actual Users’ Licences addressed; licences refused for printing presses/lithographers.

    • Higher duties on newsprint consignments; intervention led to release on concessional duty.

    • Other challenges: multi-point sales tax, railway congestion, increased warehouse charges.

    1951

    • Government attempted to restrict newsprint to newspapers.

    • Detailed representations and deputation to New Delhi led to allowance for other users.

    • Association actively fought for trade rights and regulations.

    • Humanitarian efforts continued:

      • Rs. 29,083 for Prime Minister’s Relief Fund (Bengal, Bihar, Assam floods).

      • Rs. 17,958 for East Punjab and Northern India flood relief.

    1946–1950: Ceiling Price of Imported Paper

    1950

    • Under President Shri Dhunjishaw Bilimoria:

      • Import licence validity extended from 6 to 12 months.

      • Misuse of licences investigated; Constitution revised.

    1949

    • Committee of Arbitration appointed; Constitution revised.

    • Deputation sent against unjustifiable Special Concession Licences.

    • Association granted representation on Managing Committee of Indian Merchants’ Chamber, Bombay.

    1948

    • Conference of Associations protested Paper Control (Economy) Order and Actual Users Licences.

    • Donations collected:

      • Rs. 7,589 for Refugees Relief Fund

      • Rs. 38,023 for Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Fund

    1947

    • Regional Controller of Railway priorities granted special paper transport priority.

    • Deputation to Delhi for import licence revalidation.

    • 15th August 1947: India gained independence; Association participated in celebrations.

    1946

    • Proposal to start Fair Price Shops dropped.

    • Protest lodged against low ceiling prices of imported paper; prices revised.

    1941–1945: Import Restrictions & Association Formation

    1945

    • WWII ended; restrictions persisted.

    • Government approached to allow paper imports from Sweden, lift bans on printing presses, and revoke Paper Control (Economy) Order.

    • Partial success achieved.

    1944

    • Eight meetings held; Rules and Regulations amended.

    • Deputation sent to New Delhi on ceiling prices.

    • Resolution passed to allot surplus quota for members’ benefit.

    1943

    • Meetings on 18-11-1943 and 2-12-1943 discussed Anti-Profiteering and Anti-Hoarding Ordinances and ceiling prices.

    1942

    • Rules of the Association passed on 10-2-1942.

    • Protest lodged against Price Control Order fixing wholesale and retail prices.

    1941

    • Meeting held 2nd April at Messrs. P. Kirpalani & Co., attended by 34 trade representatives.

    • Government imposed import restrictions on 27-12-1940.

    • Sub-committee appointed to review import restrictions; decision made to form Paper Traders’ Association.

    • Deputation sent to Commerce Minister.

    • By July 1941, twenty merchants enrolled as members.

    Key Leadership

    • Late Shri Jethmal T. Lalvani served as President.

    • Other stalwarts: Shri Kikabhoy Chandabhoy, Lachhiram J. Kirpalani, Ochhavlal N. Sheth, Mojilal N. Sheth, Jagmohandas K. Mehta.