Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said his government would support the growth of all industries at a time when recession had plagued the economy. He was accompanied by Finance Minister Vajubhai Vala, minster Savji Karot, Mohanbhai Patel, Kantibhai Amritya and Rajkot MP Vallbah Kathiriya. Chairman Ramesh Patel told reporters that the company planned to manufacture telephone instrument, wrist-watches, calculators and other electronic items.

The Rs 60-crore plant, sprawling over 25,000 sq feet, faced stiff competition from the market leader Ajanta clock, he said, adding they would have an edge over Ajanta with their new quality models. Production will start in a month. The company is focusing on exports to the Gulf, Africa and East Europe.

The company, which has an Ajanta-like parallel network, will open wholesale and retail depots, the chairman added.