COIMBATORE: Around 25% of memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed in the past have not been implemented on the ground and remain only on paper, Tamil Nadu minister for industries and investment promotion S Keerthana said on Friday, asserting that the state is taking steps to ensure youth get jobs in their own cities such as Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai instead of moving to other states. The minister was speaking to reporters after attending the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Southern Regional Council meeting in Coimbatore. Industrialists from across Tamil Nadu participated in it. CII Southern Region chairperson Ravichandran Purushothaman and others held discussions with the minister on industry-related issues and requirements. Industry representatives flagged the need to strengthen Tamil Nadu’s industrial ecosystem beyond existing development plans, highlighting demands related to transport connectivity, creation of a skilled workforce, modern ports and airports, logistics and infrastructure. The minister responded to queries and underlined that the state has a “bribe-free govt.” Addressing the media, Keerthana said the govt is committed to improving basic infrastructure sought by industries. She noted that setting up SIPCOT industrial parks must be backed by essential facilities such as assured water supply, substations and road connectivity. Stressing transparency, she said the govt is undertaking district-wise analysis and evaluation to identify sector-specific strengths and capabilities. “There is no use in signing MoUs by calling any company. Our plan is to bring in companies and sign agreements suited to district-level sector capabilities,” she said. On the long-pending Coimbatore airport expansion, the minister said the work is progressing at full pace and a dedicated team has been formed. She said the expansion is a key demand of the industrial community and added that it will “definitely” happen this time. Keerthana said the govt’s focus is on moving from predominantly routine jobs to higher-quality, better-paying employment. She said skill training is being planned in advance by linking with local colleges about six months before investors begin operations, to prepare youth for upcoming opportunities. A new initiative to strengthen MSMEs has also been launched, she added. On power tariff concerns raised by industries, the minister said the govt is exploring green energy alternatives, including identifying areas with dense Prosopis juliflora (karuvelam) and installing solar panels. Complaints related to a 1% solar-related charge would be taken up with the concerned minister, she said. Referring to semiconductor projects going to Gujarat, she said Tamil Nadu would continue to work with the Centre “in a cordial manner” and seek projects for the state.
