Kinfra implements Rs 8,500-mn projects

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (Kinfra) is implementing 11 projects, which are expected to attract private investments to the tune of Rs 850 crore, according to the Industries Minister, Mr Elamaram Kareem.

Replying to questions in the State Assembly, the Minister said that these projects would generate around 25,000 jobs. Besides, the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) has cleared 21 projects worth a total investment of Rs 573.42 crore and an employment potential of 6,585.

These apart, the Government was expecting investments of about Rs 10,000 crore in projects for which agreements had been reached, the Minister said.

In reply to another question, Mr Kareem said that 13 industrial ventures, with a total investment of Rs 44.86 crore, had started operations in the State through KSIDC since this Government assumed office.

He told the members that steps had been taken to make available raw materials to Malabar Cements from other state and central public sector undertakings. Also, Enterprises Resource Planning (ERP) system has been introduced.

In 2006-07, the company could achieve a capacity utilisation of 103 per cent. Till February 2007-08, it has achieved 95 per cent utilisation, the Minister said.