IfG.CC -
Institute for eGovernment

Keeping aside the differences and political parleys, the states of Punjab and Haryana, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh are treading the path of development together, by hosting an International IT Conclave.

‘E-Revolution’, which is likely to kick start on July 19 in Chandigarh is creating a lot of buzz in the region. The big-wigs of the IT world will be exploring the milieu of the Chandigarh Capital Region (CCR), which is set to become an IT hub.

“The states have come together for a common cause to showcase CCR as a top achiever in the realm of e-governance in the country. The region has a lot to offer to these IT companies in terms of infrastructure, man power and talent. Our effort is to bring Chandigarh and the surrounding states on the IT map, with investments from FIIs and MNCs. With the help of Nasscomm, the IT professionals working here can hold interactive sessions with various corporate planners, HR heads, CEOs, policy advisors, etc. It will also increase the potential of the northern region to be developed as the next IT destination,” says MS Brar, director IT, Chandigarh.

With companies like Outerbay, IBM Daksh, Dell, Quark, IDS Infotech, Mobera Systems, Infosys, Wipro and Tech Mahindra establishing base in the region, the current export turnover of Rs 416 crore is expected to touch Rs 1,000 crore in the next three years. Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi, director cum secretary, IT department, Punjab says, “The event is an opportunity for us to work together for the promotion of IT in the northern region. Besides Delhi and Gurgaon, there is no other northern centre where these companies can invest. If business comes to a state, it will not only benefit that particular state, but the adjoining states as well.”

Haryana is all set to lure the IT companies by opening up its gates to a software technology park. Haryana IT director Anurag Rastogi says, “Where this region is concerned, a sudden boom is happening in the technology sector. Chandigarh alone would not have been able to provide the huge infrastructure required for development. The three states through a combined effort will offer an alternative to the IT industry to set up base in the region. The sporadic growth can be turned into an overall growth.”

Chandigarh, with its neighboring townships, offers an excellent opportunity for the industry. Through e-Revolution, the states will try to highlight how to create value in the business ecosystem, for the companies who are either present or are exploring entering this market.

Autor(en)/Author(s): Preeti Verma

Quelle/Source: The Financial Express, 17.06.2006