The Hindu Business Line : Kerala CM woos pvt players to build IT infrastructure

The State Government will encourage private sector participation in the creation of IT infrastructure, according to the Chief Minister, Mr V. S. Achuthanandan.

Addressing an assembly of top honchos of MNCs at Technopark on Tuesday, the Chief Minister said that the Government was busy addressing the challenge of providing adequate IT infrastructure in the State.

LAND ACQUISITION

"We are in the process of acquiring 500 acres in Thiruvananthapuram for a self-contained Technocity. The Technopark itself is being expanded to the extent of an additional 100 acres. In Kochi, at least 136 acres are being acquired for the purpose," he told the gathering.

Growth of IT units is invariably concentrated in and around large cities putting tremendous pressure on infrastructure. This has brought about a situation where regional disparities are raising their ugly heads in most of the States.

SATELLITE CITIES

"My Government is of the view that economic development has to be sustainable. We will develop satellite cities in all districts of the State to relieve pressure on the major cities of Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi. Our new IT policy would be structured to encourage and implement this," Mr Achuthanandan said.

The State intends to replicate its success with tourism in the IT space as well.

Leading players have expressed interest to start operations. Several existing companies are ramping up operations and building own campuses. But there is a feeling that the State's strength has not been tapped fully.

FINISHING SCHOOLS

Kerala has the highest density of science and technology personnel in the country, with its engineering colleges producing more than 23,000 qualified engineers each year.

It now proposes to set up `finishing schools' with industry participation with a view to making those passing out more employable.

The State will be made the destination of choice for knowledge-intensive and high-value ICT services. Special incentives will be given to those having proven competencies and desirous of setting up operations in the State.

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