British delegation shows interest in pvt sector

"We are tremendously impressed with the progress in UK-funded projects in Odisha. We have seen fruits of work done by Odisha government in areas like health, sanitation and agriculture," Alan Haselhurst, who led a nine-member delegation of British Parliamentarians, told reporters after a meeting with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

He also commended the work for providing protection against malaria and other diseases.

"There is clear justification of the increasing money of British aid flowing into the state. It has been a moving experience," Haselhurst said adding the delegation would present the positive story after returning.

Besides discussing the need for greater cooperation with Odisha government, the British parliamentarians accompanied by representatives of UK's Department of International Development (DFID) visited several project sites and held discussion with senior officials.

"One of things we are trying to do now in addition to work we do with the government on health and educational programmes is to provide some investment in private sector too," DFID acting Asia Director Sam Sharpe said during the team's visit to Milk Mantra, a dairy project located near Gop in Puri district.

"I think from DFID you can expect some investments in small scale enterprises and start-up companies," he added.

"We certainly believe there is scope for cooperation between British companies and enterprises here," Haselhurst said.

DFID state official Sailesh Kumar said UK is increasing its support to channel funds where private sector agrees to partner DFID's mission to sustain innovative investments in the field of agriculture. MORE