In a major fillip to the industrial development in Bengal, the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) has announced a strategy to set up SME industrial clusters in two districts of the state. The industrial clusters would cater to small and medium businesses associated with food processing, renewable energy, IT and handicrafts. To set up the clusters, ASSOCHAM has signed a MoU with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO).
Confirming the agreement with UNIDO, ASSOCHAM secretary general D S Rawat told the media that the proposed industrial clusters would be set up in public-private partnership model. UNIDO will offer technology, methodology and financial assistance for setting up the clusters, whereas the state government needs to look after land and infrastructure development, he added.
The blueprint is jointly being brought out by ASSOCHAM and PricewaterhouseCoopers focusing on all-round development of the state, which is likely to be a ready-reckoner for investors and help Bengal in emerging as one of the most attractive investment destinations in the country. The proposed industrial clusters can also help Bengal emerge as a gateway to Southeast Asia and therefore serve a pivotal role in the country’s Look East Policy.
