Though Tamil Nadu lacks in natural resources, its manufacturing sector is quite strong. With problems of power, increasing land and labour costs, the state had missed its competitive edge.

Madras Chamber of Commerce and Industry along with Athena Infonomics have done a detailed study interacting with industries on several operational issues that affected businesses. Major concerns of the industry include the Factories and Contract Labour Acts and the various issues related to tax assessment. “The report is prepared with inputs from industries in the automobile, textile, chemicals and leather and pharma,” said Deepa Karthykeyan, director, Athena Infonomics.

Arun Maira, member, Planning Commission, unveiling the report suggested that the chambers should bring together all stakeholders on a common platform and discuss finding a solution to issues rather than requesting for new laws.

Planning Commission, with the help of some consulting firms, are preparing a detailed report on the ease of doing business in each state in India. “Based on the survey report the states are mapped on a spider diagram. This will help a state to assess its position with respect to various parameters and will point to things that they need to improve,” said Maira. The rating is to be done every year and it will help assess which state has taken steps to improve itself in comparison to the previous year.