The Hindu Business Line : `Single window' in Kerala for investments above Rs 25 cr

The Chief Minister, Mr Oommen Chandy, told newspersons after a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday that such investors need not henceforth visit various Government departments for getting respective clearances, but can straightaway approach the Investment Promotion Board.

Succour to fishermen: Mr Chandy said the Government would provide as grant 50 per cent of the cost of the fishing boats and gears that were lost in the tsunami attack on December 26.

The Government would also help them get the remaining 50 per cent as long-term loans at low interest rates.

The Chief Minister, who chaired a conference of the Members of Parliament from the State after the Cabinet meeting, said the MPs had extended all support to the Government in its efforts to provide relief to the tsunami-hit people. They have also offered a part of the MP funds for the purpose.

He noted that the MPs would take up with the Centre the question of allocating sufficient funds for relief works in the State. Also, they would try to free the allocation of funds from the usual procedures in order to speed up the rehabilitation process.

Smart City: Mr Chandy said a team from Dubai Internet City, which has come forward to establish a `Smart City' in Kochi, would visit the State early next week for holding discussions with the Government. A five-member panel, headed by the Chief Secretary, will represent the Government at the talks.

He said the company has made certain demands, which would figure at the discussions. While the Government would consider the demands on their merits, it would not compromise on the interests of the State, he added.

Housing schemes: The Housing Board will launch two housing schemes, namely, Suraksha and Karunya, for the weaker sections from the next financial year. A total of 20,000 houses are planned to be constructed under the schemes.

Under the Suraksha scheme, 75 per cent of the cost will be in the form of loan from Hudco, while the remaining 25 per cent will be extended as grant by the Government.

Under the Karunya scheme, 75 per cent of the cost will be borne by voluntary organisations and the Government would give the balance 25 per cent as grant.

Budget session: The budget session of the State Assembly will commence from January 27 with the customary Governor's speech.

The Chief Minister said that the session would continue till some time in April and the Government hoped to pass the full budget during the session itself.

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