Karnataka govt. launches IT Policy

BANGALORE: The government of Karnataka has announced a policy on information

technology (IT) called "Mahithi" aimed at bringing the benefits of IT

to the common man.

"Mahithi", the IT policy is to address issues like eradication of

poverty, empowerment of women, unemployment and promotion of Kannada in IT.

Besides these, e-governance, incubation centers for startup companies and focus

on business with non-English speaking countries are the other highlights of the

policy.

Unveiling the IT policy Karnataka chief minister S.M. Krishna said, "Mahithi

is a futuristic step in taking the benefits of IT to the masses. Karnataka is an

established leader in the IT arena and it is only logical that we take the lead

in addressing the futuristic needs of the industry and citizenry."

Highlights of the policy are:

• Eradicate poverty and empower women.
• Nurture further employment in the IT sector of the state by liberalizing
  
  higher education.
• Promote Kannada in IT.
• Take IT to the common man and strengthen its focus on effective
  
  implementation of e-governance.
• To encourage incubation centers that will provide complete start up
  
  facilities with the computer systems and telecommunication links for a
  
  limited period of time.
• To encourage business with non-English speaking countries

Mr Krishna also said, "Rs 300 crore for this policy will

be raised by floating Mahithi bonds. The proceeds of the bonds will be utilized

for HR development, training in schools, ITIs, polytechnics, colleges, pharmacy

& engineering colleges, training centres for uneducated youth, incubation

centres, earth stations, IT parks and communication infrastructure, etc."