Software exports to touch $60 bln mark by 2008

New Delhi, Dec 3: India's export of softwares and information technology enabled services (ITeS) will jump up to 60 billion dollars by 2008 from the current 23.5 billion dollars, IT Secretary Jainder Singh has said.

''The rise in exports will create 90 lakh fresh jobs by the end of 2008,'' Mr Singh said.

At present, the IT and ITeS industry provide jobs to 1.3 million people, he said, adding that software export would comprise seven per cent of the total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2008.

Last year, the industry contributed 4.8 per cent of the total GDP.

He said the industry would lack five lakh skilled manpower in the near future and highlighted the need of giving attention towards the educational system.

Mr Singh said major industry players are looking for India to invest in setting up their Research and Development (R&D) centres.

The IT Secretary indicated that large funds would be invested in the Indian education sector, but declined to divulge any details.

UNI