CII identifies key priorities

During an interaction with industry and the media here, Gupta spelled out the work plan chalked out for the northern region. He said the theme of the region, "NIRMAN NORTH (New Opportunities through Rural, Technological and Human Resources)" highlighted the thrust areas for 2006-07.

The key areas on the priority list of the CII (NR) would be improving the infrastructure, which includes rural infrastructure, air, road and rail connectivity, power, and telecommunication through public-private partnerships.

Besides, the issues are increasing the levels of investment, creating a common economic zone, initiating policy reforms on labour, power, taxation, etc. facilitating the economic empowerment of rural areas and skill development for the underprivileged youth.

Elaborating on the CII's vision for a common economic zone in the north, Gupta said the abolition of multiple tax structures, free movements of goods and sharing best practices in various states would create synergies in the region.

With a 30 per cent share of the country's population and a contribution of 28 per cent to India's GDP, the northern region holds vast market potential. However, the region still lags behind the western and the southern regions in attracting corporate investment.

Well co-coordinated planning and the development of a common agenda among the states would put the region on a new growth trajectory, Gupta said.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of agriculture in the region's economy, Gupta said developing agriculture and allied sectors necessitated enhancing agricultural competitiveness through rural infrastructure, market linkages, food processing, credit availability, and micro finance and agri extension services.

Punjab arm to focus on competition

Good governance, shared vision and independent statutory public regulation were the critical enablers for enhancing competitiveness and sustainable growth of the state of Punjab, said Harpal Singh, newly elected chairman of the CII's Punjab State Council, in Chandigarh.

He said a multi-pronged strategy has been outlined to enhance the competitiveness of the state and to develop business opportunities.

The focus areas this year would be partnering with the state government, providing inputs on policy matters through issue-based panels, value-added services, providing new business opportunities and workshops in the state.

Besides, it is also planning to open zonal offices in Jalandhar and Patiala.