3 software cos. lost in Gujarat, Nasscom starts relief operations

BANGALORE: The earthquake, which devastated Gujarat on the Republic Day,
seemed to have largely spared software companies in the state. However, three
companies have borne the brunt of the quake (two in Bhuj and one in Rajkot),
said National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom) President
Dewang Mehta in an e-mail correspondence to CIOL Bureau.

Meanwhile, Mehta announced that Nasscom has joined several other
organizations in perhaps the largest relief exercise being carried out in the
country ever. Mehta himself is currently touring the state.

He explained that Nasscom was providing VSAT satellite phones in the affected
villages. Relief camps have been set up by the organization, besides putting
together information kiosks. Mehta said that Nasscom has committed Rs 10 crore
to the relief operations.

Gujarat has four software technology parks, most of which are safe. Mehta
said that of the 86 software companies in the state about 11 have suffered
damages. However, no major losses have been reported.