Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Jan 19: "A few years ago, India was considered inconducive for doing business. For the first time, we are making progress in the right direction by creating a conducive atmosphere for businessmen to thrive. The Prime Minister's Start-up India initiative will provide many opportunities to newcomers in the job market," said union minister for railways Suresh Prabhu.

He was speaking at an interactive programme organized by Udupi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and district Small Industries Association at Country Inn, Manipal here on Tuesday, January 19.

"After Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister, India was ranked as the twelfth fastest growing world economy. In the next five years, the central government will try to be one of the top 50 nations in providing the best infrastructure for entrepreneurs. For that we need better tax administration and strict implementation of bankruptcy law," he said.

"Starting a business in India has always been tough. Venture capitals, incubation and support for marketing contribute significantly in changing the entire economic system of India," he added.

"India needs two things - first is entrepreneurship through Start-up India, and the second, large business contracts. India witnessed slow economic growth in the last 25 years but in 2015 the situation changed," he said.

Talking about his ministry and plans afoot, he said, "A large investment in making high speed train in collaboration with China is in the offing. Rs one lac crore worth of projects will kickstart under Make in India programme. Railways will provide better facilities and increase the speed of trains and cost of business. The functioning of the railway departments is becoming transparent. The railways has called tenders for projects worth Rs 40,000 crore. We need vision and action to reach our goal. Indian Railways will be the best sector in the next 10 years. Quality of coaches and providing good food for passengers are important for the growth of railways in India and this can only happen over a period of time.

"The government is trying to expand the horizon of employment possibilities and also improve the quality of work force in India. Realizing the challenges of future is far more important than past developments, and so also to act and meet the present day challenges. The government is trying its best to provide opportunities for employment but people should also realize and do their might by becoming innovative job creators. 'Make in India' is sure to make India of tomorrow. People should come forward and become entrepreneurs to achieve the maximum economic growth of the nation," he entreated.

Sri Kodancha Rao Kodancha, president, UCCI welcomed the gathering, Dr Vijeyendra compered the programme.

MP Shobha Karandlaje, former MLA Raghupati, Sanjay Gupta, DSIA president M Chittarajan Bhat and others were present.