The Hindu Business Line : Creation of task force urged for industrial development in Kerala

THE Kerala State Small Industries Association (KSSIA) has suggested formation of a high-level task force to co-ordinate and monitor various departments that are involved in the industrial development of the State.

The Chief Minister should chair the task force and the Vice Chairman should be the Industries Minister, Mr Xavier Thomas Kondody, State President of the Association said. The departments to be co-ordinated are Labour, Law, Finance, Electricity, Local Administration and Forestry, he said.

He pointed out that number of issues are pending in the Commercial Tax Department to be resolved for the smooth functioning of industries. Each issue is to be addressed on its merit and be finalised within a stipulated period.

The Association also demanded reorientation of single window clearance board in the district level with proper ex-officio representation to KSSIA. The Association also submitted a representation to the Industries Minister for inclusion in the target plans of the next 100 days' action plan of the new Government in the State under the leadership of Mr Oommen Chandy.

In its representation, the KSSIA has demanded revival of sick units and rehabilitation of 1,000 units, ten in each district on an average. It also suggested conversion of at least three closed PSUs into industrial estates for small-scale industries. This included Punalur Paper Mills; ALIND, Kundara and Kerala Soaps, Kozhikode.

According to the Association, the Union Government has announced Kerala as a special export zone for horticulture covering certain districts.

To make use of this facility KSSIA has suggested implementation of 100 units for value addition of horticulture products. It also demanded urgent steps for the implementation of the proposed express highway project.

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