Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 18 2010:
The proposed setting up of State Institute of Automotives and Driving Schools (SIADS), a joint venture between the State Government and Tata Motors are unlikely to take shape as the former is yet to identify the site (land) for the same.
Inability to allocate the land side for the project is said to have subsequently led to the failure in the preparation of 'detailed project report' (DPR).
An informed source said that about 20 acre land would be required for setting up of the regional level institution out of which 6-8 acre area would be necessary for the construction of driving track.
In case the institute materialises, the State Government would have to provide infrastructure like Institute building, hostel, driving track and other requisite infrastructure while Tata Motors would provide equipment/machinery such as vehicles, aggregates, cut section model, special tools and training aid including wall charts, display boards and manuals.
It is said that setting up of the Institute was planned so as to impart training on safe driving; develop and upgrade automotive industry related skills; generate employment opportunities; and to nurture the spirit of entrepreneurship.
Regarding management of the Institute, an independent society needs to be formed that would facilitate the Governing Council comprising of equal representation of the State Govt and Tata Motors Ltd.
to frame policies, set norms and to manage operation of the institute.
Inspite of the indecision, the project has not yet been scrapped for there is still the option to take over the proposed ITI, Phaknung site for laying the driving track or the site earmarked for MOD at Pheidinga, the source maintained.