Andhra should set up at least 10 knowledge SEZs: Assocham

KVVV CHARYA
DATELINE

HYDERABAD : In the next seven years, Andhra Pradesh can become a
'knowledge centre' for the world, according to the Associated Chambers
of Commerce (Assocham). In a blueprint, titled 'Winds of Investments are
towards Andhra', Assocham suggests that the state has the potential to
attract over Rs 1,50,000 crore investment in the next seven years. The
blueprint, submitted to chief minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy by Assocham
president Venugopal N Dhoot recently, was prepared by a group of
professionals after field visits and interaction with officials.
''We are confident that the state has enough potential — resources,
proactive government and technically qualified manpower — which is
sufficient to attract the investments,'' Dhoot told the media.

The document points out that the state produces over 80,000 engineering
graduates, 10,000 management graduates and over 3.50 lakh
English-speaking workforce annually— and this is its greatest advantage.

The anticipated investment is capable of creating four lakh jobs
additionally, besides increasing the state's export share from 4.39% to
10% by the year 2012.

But this can be achieved only if Andhra Pradesh prepares a blueprint for
establishing 10 Knowledge Special Economic Zones (K-SEZs) and 10
Agri-Processing Special Economic Zones (A-SEZs). This apart, it should
act as a catalytic agent in promoting biotechnology, nano-technology,
robotics, knowledge agriculture; promote institutes of professional
excellence.

On its part, Assocham would take up the job of training small-time
farmers by establishing about 200 agri-training institutes. Dhoot said
the KL Chugh (former ITC, MD) committee to prepare the draft project
paper to be submitted to the Planning Commission to get central funding.
''We expect active partnership from the state government to proceed on
the project,'' he said. DS Rawat, secretary-general, Assocham, said a
few corporates had evinced interest in the project. However, the
modalities would be worked out after the Chugh committee submitted its
report.

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