Karnataka plans semiconductor SEZs

Karnataka plans to form three special economic zones (SEZs) for the semiconductor sector at the proposed 'Knowledge City' on Bangalore's outskirts.

The 10,000 acre-Knowledge City is coming up near Bidadi, 30 kilometres south-west of Bangalore. The government intends to have SEZs dedicated to the semiconductor sector in this area.

"The government is consulting the India Semiconductor Association (ISA) to evolve the SEZ plan. We are ready to set aside 400 acres for this purpose," Karnataka's IT / BT Secretary M N Vidyashankar said.

The state wants to set up SEZs specifically for semiconductor manufacturing, chip design, research and development.

"We intend to have at least three SEZs, each focussed on various aspects of semiconductor sector. The ISA will submit its plan shortly. We will take a decision after consulting the ISA. The government is committed to supporting the semiconductor sector," he added.

Karnataka lost the $3.5 billion 'Fab City' project, promoted by SemIndia, to Andhra Pradesh last year. The state is now keen on retaining prospective investors by developing the 'Knowledge City', which will have several SEZs for high-end engineering and manufacturing.

Vidyashankar stated that the government is building a 8-lane highway connecting the 'Knowledge City' with the Bangalore International Airport coming up near Devanahalli to ensure connectivity.

IT FINISHING SCHOOL: In an effort to meet the growing demand for IT professionals, the state government has tied up with the Raman International Insitute of IT to offer postgraduate diploma programme.

"This IT finishing school will create industry-ready talent. The Mysore University will award the diploma," Vidyashankar said.