National Design Policy approved: Cabinet

New Delhi, Feb 8 (UNI) The government today announced the National Design Policy aimed at global positioning and branding of Indian designs and making ''Designed in India'' a by-word for quality and utility in conjunction with ''Made in India'' and ''Served from India.'' The new policy, approved at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, would promote Indian design through a well defined and managed regulatory, promotional and institutional framework.

Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who briefed reporters on the policy, said an action plan would be in place in three months to implement the proposals.

The policy envisages creation of original Indian designs in products and services drawing upon India's rich craft traditions and cultural heritage.

India would be made a major hub for exports and outsourcing of designs and creative process for achieving a design-enabled innovation economy.

Under the action plan, Indian firms and institutions would be encouraged development of strategic alliances with design firms and institutions abroad to gain access to technology and know-how improving Indian design.

UNI