[Hubli] Proposal to set up ITSEZ

Source: The Hindu

An Information Technology Special Economic Zone (ITSEZ) has been proposed to be set up in Hubli to tap the potential in the IT sector.

Deputy Commissioner Darpan Jain told The Hindu that the proposed ITSEZ has been planned to be set up on 100 acres of land belonging to the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) at Gamanagatti village near Hubli.

The KIADB possesses around 500 acres of lands of which 100 acres had been proposed to be set apart for the proposed ITSEZ. The process of land acquisition completed a year ago and there would be no hurdles to kick off ITSEZ works once the Government gives a nod to it and the statutory requirements were met, he said.

According to Mr. Jain there a proposal to this effect was pending as it could not be moved forward due to the global economic meltdown that left IT sector in bad shape. Now, as the recession period was over and the IT sector was looking for expansion, it would be in the fitness of things to set up ITSEZ in Hubli.

Besides, the cost factor, improved infrastructure and recreation facilities along with availability of trained human resource makes Hubli an ideal destination for the ITSEZ.

Stakeholders of the IT industry, academicians and several others stressed on the need to set up the ITSEZ at a meeting on IT-related issues convened by the district administration recently. It would also help tap potentials of north Karnataka and promote economic activities in the region.

However, whether the ITSEZ is to be established by the KIADB or by private parties was under contemplation. A majority people at the meeting opined that it would be better if a private party established the ITSEZ.

“In that case, an anchoring IT company has to be identified. I have already sent a communication to some major IT companies in this regard”, Mr. Jain added.