Competition amongst State Governments.

Indian Express has this story pitting Hyderabad against Bangalore, with the IT Secretary, AP Mr. Shetty, showcasing the affirmative steps taken by the AP Govt. to transform Hyderabad and surrounding areas into a true Tech region.

Mr. Shetty smartly positions Hyderabad with its infrastructural advantage and upcoming plans to develop second-tier cities and create facilities to setup Hardware manufacturing units alongwith policy initiatives to lure the IT Conglomerates. Compare this with the infrastructural woes of Bangalore and recent controversy over the BMIC project.

On the other hand, note the positive developments in Haryana and West Bengal with Mukesh Ambani led Reliance faction all set to invest heavily creating a SEZ , agro-retail and natural gas resources. Undoubtedly these are commendable examples in Public-Private Partnership but they are also examples of a subtle competition thats developing within the Governments to woo investments in their states. There is a realisation that prosperity of a geography is directly related to the economy of the region, the more business friendly the better. Wooing investments is becoming an indicator of the progressive attitude of Governments. Think of the image Bhattacharjee of WB has created for himself. With time, the competition will intensify, what with other states joining the foray. We will see a slew of measures taken by Governments to lure companies and investors. Sops wil be offered, policy reforms will be initiated, curbs will be relaxed and in general India will be sprinting towards a free and market friendly economy.

All in all, its going to be hay day for the average Indian. I am glad, the states have started to compete!