Udupi Deputy Commissioner Issues Stern Warning to Industrial Units
In a decisive move to boost local industry and job creation, Udupi Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa TK has directed officials to ensure that industrial units are completed within the stipulated timeframe. She warned that any delays would result in the cancellation of allotments and their reassignment to new entrepreneurs.
Addressing Delays in Industrial Implementation
The DC was chairing a series of critical meetings at Rajathadri, including the district-level single window committee, industrial grievance (Spandana), district export promotion committee, PM Employment Generation Programme, and the PM Vishwakarma Scheme implementation committee. She emphasized that industrial areas were developed and plots allotted specifically to promote industries and generate local employment. However, many allottees have repeatedly sought extensions without commencing operations.
Swaroopa TK instructed Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) officials to review such cases in detail and submit comprehensive reports. She made it clear that if delays persist, the allotted plots must be cancelled and reallocated to new applicants, ensuring that resources are utilized effectively for economic growth.
Progress Review in Key Industrial Areas
Referring to the Nandikur, Belapu, and Miyar industrial areas, the DC highlighted concerning statistics. Out of 26 units that had signed agreements covering 18.3 acres, only six are under implementation, one is entangled in litigation, and a staggering 19 have not commenced any work. "Action should be taken against non-performing units," she asserted, underscoring the need for accountability.
Expansion into New Industrial Zones
On the front of new industrial development, Swaroopa TK revealed that land identification is actively underway for 113.5 acres at Shivapura in Hebri taluk and at Kerebettu. Joint surveys have been conducted by the Forest, Revenue, and Survey departments, with boundary demarcation currently in progress. Officials have been directed to submit reports at the earliest to expedite these projects.
Additionally, in Brahmavara taluk's Uppoor, 101.1 acres of private land has been identified for a small-scale industrial estate, and proposals have been submitted to the minister for approval. Steps are also being taken to establish an industrial estate on 28 acres of government land in Pernankila village of Udupi taluk, further expanding the district's industrial footprint.
Infrastructure and Support Initiatives
The DC directed officials to expedite land acquisition and compensation processes for road widening in Belapu, addressing critical infrastructure needs. She also asked them to resolve power overload issues in Miyaru by installing additional transformers or upgrading existing capacity, ensuring reliable energy supply for industries.
In a push for skill development, Swaroopa TK urged the skill development department to introduce industry-relevant courses and create job opportunities for ITI and diploma holders. She highlighted that entrepreneurs are facing difficulties in securing bank loans due to CIBIL rating issues and asked lead bank officials to take up the matter with the Reserve Bank of India to facilitate easier access to credit.
Employment and Financial Schemes in Focus
Under the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme, margin money of Rs 2,190.1 lakh is slated for release to 570 units. So far, Rs 872 lakh has been disbursed to 233 units, indicating ongoing support for small enterprises. Under the PM Vishwakarma scheme, 5,875 beneficiaries have applied for financial assistance. Of these, 1,383 applications were rejected, while loans were sanctioned to 4,064 beneficiaries, with an amount of Rs 37 crore already disbursed to 3,782 beneficiaries.
The DC also directed the skill development department to distribute toolkits to trained beneficiaries, enhancing their capacity to start or expand businesses. Senior officers from various departments were present at the meeting, reflecting a coordinated effort to drive industrial growth and employment in Udupi district.
