K'taka to release SSI subsidy in phases

Karnataka has proposed to release subsidy due (Rs 256 crore) to small scale industries (SSI) in phases over the next two years.

State SSI minister Shivanand N Naik told reporters here on Thursday that the government has already released Rs 69 crore to various SSIs.

"The erstwhile Congress-JD(S) government had released Rs 80 crore. We are working out a plan to release the remaining Rs 256 crore subsidy due in phases. The report on the subject is expected shortly," he added.

The minister said that an expert committee was looking into promotion of SSIs at the district level. "The SSI sector allocation for a district will depend on the availability of the raw materials in abundance in that region. The allocation of SSIs for each district will be taken up after the expert committee submits its report," he stated.

The government is also contemplating including poultry farming and brick manufacturing under the SSI sector. "Poultry farmers and brick manufacturing units have been demanding that they be accorded SSI status. We are examining the matter," Naik said.

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