The Hindu Business Line : Kerala needs improvements in infrastructure: Assocham

Kochi, Feb. 5 The Associated Chambers of Commerce of India (Assocham) has suggested improvements in infrastructure facilities in the State to attract large investments.

Though the infrastructure facilities are comparatively better in the State, it needs some more progress for the overall benefit, Mr Venugopal N. Dhoot, President of Assocham, said while speaking on the industrial situation of South India, particularly that of Kerala.

The need for proper physical infrastructure has been realised in the growth process of India. With the launch of development programmes by the Government, huge public and private investments have been committed to the sector.

According to an Assocham analysis, investment announcements to the tune of Rs 3 lakh crore were made by the corporate India in the infrastructure sector. The realisation of these investments would open plethora of growth opportunities in all segments of the economy, he said.

The boom, he said, is not restricted to the metro cities as the Tier 2 and 3 cities are also attracting attention of private sector.

Expressing concern of the India Inc over the industrial lockouts in Kerala, Mr Dhoot pointed out that the State Government should curb excessive unionization of industrial workers, which sometimes put pressures on the industrial growth and send bad signals to prospective investors.

Industries like spices, rubber, tea, coffee, and plantation have great scope in Kerala and other parts of southern India and therefore, the incentivised schemes need to be promoted by the State administration so that southern part continues to maintain its edge in the identified sectors, he added.

Mr Dhoot, however, expressed satisfaction that power situation in the southern part is much better and industry has not been suffering much as compared to UP, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh but civic amenities in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra and Karnataka also need improvements.

More Stories on : Infrastructure | Kerala | Industry Associations

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page