‘Naya Raipur’ is ready for investors to set base, including investments in hospitality and tourism. Investors have of just ‘Plug In’ and start business, said Dr Raman Singh, chief minister, Chhattisgarh at the ongoing Nasscom Leadership Forum 2015 in Mumbai. Chhattisgarh is set to invite future investments into Naya Raipur, its future smart city spread across 237 square kilometres.
The Naya Raipur smart city offers opportunities across sectors, from IT, healthcare, finance, tourism, hospitality, sports and recreation to entertainment and more. From golf courses, to botanical gardens and others attractions are a part of the mega development project. The state is ready with an investment plan for both starts ups and established players. The region is on the brink of setting up incubation centres and also centres of excellence. Speaking on infrastructure connectivity, both on land and air, Rajat Kumar, director PR and joint secretary to the CM stated, “The state is scheduled to announce a new air taxi facility connecting regions within the state. The RFP is in process and soon a decision will be taken on the same. With respect to rail connectivity, a 450 km rail corridor is also under development. This rail project is supported by PSUs, South Eastern Coalfield and the Government of India. The state is also seeking hospitality investors and resort developers within the Naya Raipur smart city development plan.”
At the event, Singh spoke about the relevance of technology and e-procurement solutions that have helped arrest corruption and unaccounted financial pilferage. From paddy procurement, to gas subsidies to education, the state has been incorporating technology solutions for the benefit of its people. “We have stopped cash transactions in most areas, with an aim to arrest corruption. We are committed to give our people a corruption free, hassle free system. The use of efficient technology has resulted in the state gaining approximately INR 8000 crores, which has been given back to the farming community,” mentioned Dr Singh.
Further, the Smart Card popularly called ‘Meri Marzi’,’ gives plastic power in the hands of the urban Raipur citizen. It enables local to purchase rice and grains for shops across the state encouraging cashless transactions. Singh further added that Naya Raipur is ready for business and the state is committed to incorporate technology to effectively arrest unaccounted cash pilferage and give the emerging smart city the power to offer a seamless business environment.