Finance Minister K.M. Mani has announced a ‘Make in Kerala’ initiative to promote growth and development of micro, small, and medium industries in the State.
The scheme would cover electronic systems and machinery, light engineering, rubber products, food processing, spices, handloom, textile, Ayurveda, promotion of Kerala brands, technological upgrade, conducting of entrepreneurs’ meets, and promotion of women’s entrepreneurial initiatives. A sum of Rs.15 crore has been set apart for the purpose.
Finance Minister K.M. Mani announced the ‘Make in Kerala’ initiative through a written statement released to the media here on Monday. The statement, text of the speech supposed to have been delivered by the Minister as reply to the debate on the 2015-16 budget, was released following the adjournment of the House sine die after rushing through consideration of the Vote on Account and the Finance Bill.
Fuel cess
Mr. Mani also made it clear that the Public Works Department would get only 20 per cent of the anticipated revenue from the Re.1 cess on every litre of diesel and petrol sold in the State. In his budget speech, Mr. Mani had said that the anticipated revenue of Rs.375 crore would be utilised entirely for providing shelter to the homeless. He had also stated that the rate at which the cess would be charged would be altered through a notification.
The Public Works Department had taken exception to the Finance Minister’s move and there were indications that he was willing to share 50 per cent of the cess with the PWD. Mr. Mani’s statement shows that the PWD would get only a far less amount from the cess.
