Kerala aims to set up global hardware manufacturing hub

Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 25: Kerala is looking to continue on its success in software startups by rolling out a new set of policies to create a similar eco-system for hardware that will leverage the state’s advantages in terms of skilled human resources, entrepreneurial culture and high consumption for setting up a global hardware and electronics manufacturing hub. The government had already made clear its intent of promoting Electronics Hardware manufacturing in the state through policy initiatives, including budget declarations on setting up hardware parks and funding for EMCs. The state government had earlier brought out a ESDM policy to boost the sector in the state. It envisions turning Kerala into preferred destination for ESDM investment and a leader in electronics design and embedded software, through skill development for ready-to-absorb manpower; promoting start-ups and innovation; and creating quality infrastructure for manufacturing. As a follow up to the Budget declaration and the Electronics and IT policy of 2017, the Electronics and Hardware Mission was set up to coordinate the activities of multiple agencies working in the sector; and to create a single point of contact for various strategic projects and investment proposals. The Kerala Electronics and Hardware Mission on Monday submitted a well-researched and detailed report to the government outlining the potential, challenges and roadmap for the Electronics System Design & Manufacturing (ESDM) sector. The “Roadmap for Hardware Manufacturing in Kerala” was handed over to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan by Dr. Jayasankar Prasad C, special officer for the Kerala Hardware Mission. M. Sivasankar, IT Secretary, was present on the occasion. “Overall, the report indicates a potential for Kerala to leverage its strengths in human resources, startup ecosystem, high consumption and a proactive policy to establish a manufacturing hub in electronics and related hardware” Mr Sivasankar said. “A wide network of experienced professionals from the state in key positions and their willingness to support the cause is an added advantage. But Kerala needs to make a quick move to grab the first mover advantage and to counter the incentives offered by competing locations in the country,” he added. UNI