Group of Technology companies (GTech), the industry body of IT companies in the State, has complimented the State Government for presenting what it calls a ‘focused and balanced' Budget.
According to Mr V.K. Mathews, Chairman, GTech, and Executive Chairman of IBS Group, the Budget has several positives and highlights the priorities of the Government.
RIGHT SIGNAL
Specific projects have been mentioned and earmarked commensurate outlay. This is significant and sends out the signal that the Government is earnest in completing specific big ticket investments in a time-bound manner. However, according to him, a lot more could have been done for road development. The amount set aside for this critical infrastructure would not be sufficient for a much touted initiative such as the north-south corridor.
GTech welcomed the proposal to invest in the infrastructure needs of the IT industry in the cities of Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode.
According to Mr Anoop Ambika, Secretary, GTech, the IT industry has the potential to transform the socio-economic landscape of the State.
Any promise of support to it would be wholeheartedly welcomed.
LAUNDABLE MOVE
The move to bring policy-making processes handled by various departments under one umbrella is a laudable move, Mr Ambika said. This will go a long way in ensuring effective inter-departmental co-ordination and faster decision making, he added.
GTech appreciated the ‘bold steps' to address social issues such as the declared intention to making the State garbage-free, the self-employment and entrepreneurship programme, pension for marginal farmers over the age of 60 and health insurance for all school-going children.
On the economic front too, the Budget has made significant fund allocations, notably for the development of the State Capital and development of industrial parks elsewhere.
INFRA PROJECTS
Specific projects have been mentioned and allocations made with respect to each. These include the proposed Kochi Metro project, the Kannur Airport, the Vizinjam international port and container transhipment terminal and the SmartCity projects.
The conduct of the investor meet titled ‘Emerging Kerala' would be a significant step in creating a platform for inviting investments into the State.
GTech also welcomed the proposal to create a high-impact ‘Brand Kerala Campaign'. Campaigns such as these would help the State Government and industry to come together to showcase Kerala as an important investment destination.
Keywords: Group of Technology companies, state budget,
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