Date:26/05/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/26/stories/2006052610300400.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Land allotted for IT institute

Staff Reporter

It will impart skills in design, manufacturing and also cover software engineering

CHENNAI: An order placing 25 acres in Chennai at the Centre's disposal to set up the proposed Indian Institute of Information Technology Design and Manufacturing was passed by Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi on Thursday.

According to an official release, the institute, to be established as a national centre of excellence by the Union Ministry of Human Resource Development, would impart skills in design and manufacturing.

"The proposed institute will have a strong programme in design and manufacturing. It will cover all aspects such as mechanical, electrical, electronic as well as software engineering."

It said such a programme was necessary given that highly skilled and trained manpower in the areas was critical for sustaining the manufacturing sector.

It came at a time when Tamil Nadu was emerging as a hub for manufacture of electronic and telecom products.

Competitiveness

The Institute, according to the release, would go a long way in consolidating and enhancing the competitiveness of the sector.

Stating that the higher educational centre could not be started as the previous government did not take a decision to hand over the land, the release said the State Government would render all necessary support and work closely with the Centre for the Institute.