'Indian SMEs need local language computing'

MUMBAI, INIDA: After strongly advocating business-friendly tax policies and continuation of Software Technology Park of India (STPI) schemes for the IT industry, the Manufacturers' Association for Information Technology (MAIT) seeks the support of the union government for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The apex body representing the computer hardware, training and software industries, in a bid to promote IT across businesses in the country, desires that the government should focus on the IT needs of SMEs.

While speaking to CyberMedia News, MAIT's executive director, Vinnie Mehta said, “In India, there are about four million SMEs and out of the total only 2–3 per cent have one or two computers – that is the sort of IT infrastructure presence. Since SMEs contribute hugely to the economy, IT tools and software should be made available to them so they become more efficient.”

According to Mehta, the government should come out with local language computing and software solutions for the SMEs.

“At large the SMEs are non-English speaking people and so it's very important that they are provided with computing basics as well as software solutions in their local language,” Mehta viewed.

He said local language computing will help the SMEs tremendously as the majority of business or transactions happens in local markets.

Mehta felt that language can also help spreading IT in rural India, where majority people are not familiar with English language.

Moreover, in terms of making SMEs more IT-enabled and efficient, Mehta suggested that the government should offer cheaper loans to encourage SMEs to buy IT products like computers, local-language-based accounting solutions and other softwares, broadband connections and devices.

He pointed out that IT should be looked in totality that includes software applications and solutions, computer systems, devices and not just as hardware.

Though MAIT's objective is to spread IT knowledge and broadband penetration, Mehta is unhappy with the IT industry's approach in reaching out to people. He feels that IT industry should come out with a strong campaign to communicate the message to people about the value of IT.