The state government has given a big push to information technology (IT) sector with a slew of announcements in the 2023-24 budget, including establishment of an optical fiber network in all districts.

The state will set up a 'Unified Digital Infrastructure' that will create a high-speed optical fiber network from Chennai to all districts at a cost of ₹400 crore, Finance Minister Palanivel Thiaga Rajan said in his speech. This will facilitate delivery of telemedicine, education, agriculture extension and other services to far-flung villages of the state, he pointed out.

Terming it a revolution, IT Minister Mano Thangaraj told TNIE, "The government is already in the process of connecting 12,525 villages and 380 blocks through fibernet. Along with this facility, we will have reliable and high-speed internet access in rural areas. This will help the government provide digital services to nook and corners of the state," he said, adding the Unified Digital Infrastructure project will be completed in a year.

The Finance Minister said the government plans to establish a skill centre called Tamil Nadu World Innovation and Skill Training Hub (TN-WISH) at Ambattur at a cost of ₹120 crore.

The state government also plans to use factories as skill development centres under the Factory Skill Schools programme with a budgeted outlay of ₹25 crore.

To promote economic development of SC/ST entrepreneurs, the Annal Ambedkar Business Champions Scheme with ₹100 crore allocation will be launched. It will provide 35% capital subsidy and offer 6% interest subsidy for loans to procure machineries and equipment.

Media: Indian Express