Rathwa favours quota in private sector

Union minister of State for railways Naranbhai Rathwa said that the Confederation of the Indian Industries (CII) and the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham) should implement the recommendations of the J J Irani Committee as regards the reservations for STs, SCs and OBCs in the industrial sector, at the earliest.

Rathwa, speaking on the occasion of presentation of the Most Enterprising Chamber award to the president of the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Nitin Kunkolienkar, at a special function in the city, said that by reserving rightful places for the socially backward sections, the industrial sector would be carrying out their social commitment.

The award is constituted by the Western and Southern India Business Association (WSIBA). The present and past members of the GCCI managing committee: Manguirish Pai Raikar, Ceasar Menezes and Ralph D'Sousa were also honoured on the occasion, while Dattaraj Salogaocar was honoured in absentia.

Rathwa said: "The government will coach around 10,000 socially backward students this year, while the number would be increased to 50,000 by 2009. Besides, 10 special training centres would be established by 2007 to train such students.

The minister further mentioned that every year 100 socially backward students would receive scholarships to study in elite institutions like IIT and IIM. In his speech, Goa Governor S C Jamir said that the tourist centric state has come a long way in its industrial development and has potential for further growth. But, careful planning is necessary for the same, he pointed out.

However, the Governor cautioed: "Goa has congenial environment for tourism, but the tourism industry should be maintained as a sustainable industry. A document should be carefully prepared for future of the tourism industry in the state."

Jamir also stated that Indian industry should have clearer strategies, based on deeper insights and analytical perceptions of emerging realities.

"We need to embark on smarter initiatives that enhance competitiveness of Indian industry by underlining the need for rapid upgradation on parameters like quality, corporate governance, knowledge management, energy efficiency and environment management, not only to increase productivity and profitability, but also to enhance the quality of life of Indian citizens."

The GCCI president, in his speech of acceptance, said that a small body like GCCI receiving such a great honour by competing with Chambers all over the country is a major achievement not only for the Goan industry but also for Goa, as a state.

He also informed that the GCCI, in the past has worked with the state government on various issues like budget proposal, formulation of policies and other economic aspects.

The GCCI chief further said that GCCI, in partnership with the Chambers in the neighbouring states like Maharashtra, Karnataka and Gujarat would take all major issues to the Union government, in the future.

The WSIBA president, Dr Abraham Mathai, in his welcome speech said that the GCCI president and the Chamber team are being honoured in recognition of their services to place Goa on the industrial map of India.