Karnataka CM seeks 15 months' time for infrastructure development

Bangalore, Mar 6 (UNI) Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy today sought 15 months' time to develop proper infrastructure needed for industrial development in the state in all areas, including Information Technology and Bio-technology.

Speaking at a seminar on ''Vibrant Karnataka-Achieving Dr Kalam's Vision by 2012,'' organised by the Federation of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry here, he said that his government was committed to clearing the infrastructure hurdles faced by the IT, BT and other sectors at present. ''Give me 15 months' time for providing the required infrastructure. The new coalition government is committed to removing the bottlenecks for industrial development in the state,'' he added.

Mr Kumaraswamy clarified that he was not against IT and BT as reported in a section of the media. ''I only said the new government will also provide needed facilities for the industries outside Bangalore. Infact IT and BT companies contributed to 45 per cent of the State's GDP. When this is the case, how can I oppose these two sectors,'' he asked.

He said instructions were given to the authorities concerned to complete the asphalting of roads before April. But now unseasonal rains had come in the way for completing the works, he added.

He stated that the 11-point mission put forth by President A P J Abdul Kalam during his address to the joint session of the State Legislature last year was really a guiding principle for the overall development of the state. ''It is our bound duty to ensure that the mission was achieved and Karnataka emerged a model state in the country,'' he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa said a High Level Committee would be set up for the implementation of various programmes chalked out to make Karnataka a role model state in the country as desired by Mr Kalam.

Earlier, Institute of Parliamentary Affairs, Bangalore, Secretary M C Shanthamurthy made the theme presentation on 'The President's Development Model for Karnataka.' UNI MSP RG PM HT2302