The Kerala government communicated with the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) for initiating a Sputnik V vaccine manufacturing plant in the state, Industries Minister P Rajeev said on Thursday.
Dialogues between Russia and the Kerala government regarding the manufacturing unit commenced when the state faced a severe crisis of Covid-19 antibodies. “The Chief Secretary and other officials are in consultation with Russian officials, Honourable Consul General and direct investment board. The initial discussion is ongoing. I think we will launch into a Letter of intent (LOI) within a few days.”
The minister stated Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had directed officials to give proposals to companies ready to develop vaccines from the state. “Earlier, we had entrusted KSDP(Kerala State Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Ltd). An expert committee orchestrated by the state government chose the land in Life Science Park in Thonnakkal suitable to establish the vaccine manufacturing unit.“
At the same time, Rajeev also said various fresh investors have faced the state for business opportunities as Kerala believes in responsible investment and responsible industry. “The target is to bring in IT, tourism, BT, agro-based industries, pharmaceuticals and medical devices to Kerala,” he said.
“Tata ELXSI has launched MoU with KINFR, they are ready to invest Rs 70 crores. On July 14, we got sanction from Tata consultancy Services with a Rs 650 crores investment at the first stage and Rs 700 crores in the second phase. They have committed to create more than 20,000 employment opportunities within five to seven years.” he added.
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