Udupi: Minister of Large and Medium Scale Industries Jagadish Shettar said his department had incorporated many amendments in order to support industries that incurred huge losses during pandemic-induced lockdowns.

The minister, after inspecting the newly built oxygen plant in Belapu, told media persons on Monday that the department had set up a single window system to ensure early clearance of all pending files.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has affected the industrial sector but when compared to other states, industries in Karnataka are in the growth phase,” he added.

He said the focus is onto promote industries in tier one and tier two cities. There is a need to promote industries in other districts outside Bengaluru, he said. The government is aiming to overhaul the industrial sector. Districts like Yadgir, Koppal, Belagavi, Hubbali-Dharwad and Mangaluru are witnessing huge investments, which is a welcome change, he added.

Replying to a query, Shettar said 80% of local candidates should be appointed to class one and class two posts while 100% opportunities should be given to them under class three and four categories.

The new industrial policy also stresses on job opportunities for the locals. An enquiry will be conducted into complaints against industries refusing to appoint local candidates and stringent action will be taken against such industries, Shettar warned.

The minister said after taking care of Udupi district’s need for oxygen, the remaining will be supplied to Mangaluru (Dakshina Kannada district).