Wednesday, August 22, 2012

PRAFULLA GHADAI

Orissa’s Finance Minister talks to B&E’s Subrat Swain about how private investments will help orissa grow

B&E: We have seen a lot of MoUs being signed between large business houses and the State government over the last 10 years. But for some reasons, most of the projects have failed to materialise. How do you plan to tackle this issue?
PG: The global recession has a bearing on the investment decisions of the large business houses, within or without the State. But with signs of recovery in the global economy in sight, it is expected that the projects would take off very soon. And signs of that happening can already be seen. So far, out of 49 companies which signed MoUs with the State government, 29 mineral-based companies have already started production.

B&E: What are the concerns of the prospective investors?
PG: The State government is conscious about the concerns of the investors and has put in place a single-window clearance system. A land bank is also proposed for faster implementation of greenfield projects. We also have the best Ressetlement & Rehabilitation policy in India.

B&E: What are the pro-growth plans that the State has implemented?
PG: We are laying emphasis on capital investment in both communication infrastructure and irrigation. That should work the magic.

B&E: What is your single largest achievement in terms of providing employment for youth in Orissa?
PG: Our skilled workforce now have employment opportunities within Orissa in the new greenfield ventures and so the educated youth are not forced to go outside the State in search of jobs.




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