Cluster development holds the key for the survival of small-scale units, said Mr K.R. Thankaraj, President, Tamil Nadu Small and Tiny Industries Association, here on Friday.

Inaugurating the second edition of industrial exhibition, Indexpo 2011, at Tamukkam grounds, organised by Madurai District Tiny and Small Scale Industries Association, he said large units are not averse to placing orders with small units provided they ensured timely supply. The engineering fabrication cluster at Dindigul as a vendor of Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd, Trichy, is a step in this direction. The big units, as they grow, need more vendors, and small units should utilize the opportunity, he said.

Referring to infrastructure development in southern districts, he said the declaration of Madurai Airport as an international port would accelerate industrialisation in the region.

Mr A.V. Varadharajan, former President, Coimbatore District Small Scale Industries Association, Coimbatore, in his key note address, describing how a permanent trade centre at Coimbatore helped the region industrialise, said Madurai also could have one, provided entrepreneurs are resolute and dedicated to the cause. If they are willing, sky is the limit for the achievement, he pointed out.

The exhibition — held in a 30,000-sq. ft area with 120 stalls — is being held up to February 8. It is open for the public between 4.30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Entrance is free.

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