Speaking at a function organised by the District Industrial Centre (DIC) to distribute the DIC awards here, the minister explained that the State is now in a position to take advantage of the information technology due to the availability of high-quality human resources and basic infrastructure facilities.

He said a single window clearance office will shortly begin functioning at the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) at Ranjangaon. ``A software technology park is also being set up in Pune,'' he said.

Mahratta Chamber of Commerce and Industries President Dr Ram Rathi flayed the policy of putting a total stop to all dye and pesticide units due to pollution. Citing the example of a multinational which preferred to invest in China rather than India because of the restrictive norms, Rathi urged the Government to use its political will instead of falling a prey to influence while granting permission to industries.

Bhushan Ambedkar, Director, Spellbound Engineering (India) won the first prize while Mihir Gogate, Director, Rapid Machining Technologies and Chintamani Mengale, Director, Seiunmuro Engineering India shared the second prize. Dilip Revankar, Director, Efficient Machine Accessories and Mukund S Kirdat of Messrs Packera were given consolation prizes instituted by the MCCI.