Date:13/03/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/03/13/stories/2007031317980300.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

CII sees potential in Magadi

Special Correspondent

Bangalore: Creating an enabling environment is the key to the development of backward places in Karnataka. This forms the abstract of findings of a study commissioned by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on "Industrialisation of backward taluks — A report on Magadi' released during its annual Members' Day meet last weekend.

The report has stressed on the creation of a viable environment for the development of industries using the local skills and resources. Magadi is all set to move on the track of development.

There is a lot of potential for the development of tourism and agro-based industries in the town, which comes under Bangalore Rural district provided there is proper rural infrastructure and access to market.

Food processing

The report identified food processing as a lucrative investment option for the development of the taluk considering the fact that cultivable area under fruits and vegetables forms 9.5 per cent of the total cropped area of Magadi.

Floriculture

Taking into account the State's leading position in floriculture and the favourable climatic and soil conditions of Magadi for floriculture, the report recommends development of floriculture as a possible avenue for employment generation in the taluk.

It suggested the development of tourism in the taluk promoting the place as the birthplace of Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore. The report has suggested promotion of adventure tourism in the taluk, taking advantage of the many rocky outcrops and hillocks around the small town.

To provide jobs for the educated rural youth, the report advocates setting up of rural Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) units with public private partnership, which will enable the taluk to create wealth by participating in the new economy.