HYDERABAD: The government has proposed Rs 774 crore for the Information Technology (IT) and Electronics & Communications departments in the Budget for FY 2024-25.
The largest allocation, Rs 250.55 crore, is dedicated to enhancing IT infrastructure in the state. This includes funding for hardware and software for the SCAN, new initiatives at the State Data Centre (SDC) in Manikonda for cloud-enabled applications and maintenance of the cyber security T-SOC.
Promotion activities for the IT sector will receive Rs 206.50 crore, which includes Rs 80 crore in incentives and subsidies for hardware, animation, and gaming industries, as well as for MSMEs, startups and enterprises run by women and SC/ST communities.
As much as Rs 100 crore is allocated to improving infrastructure facilities, including roads, water and electricity, in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, in line with the government’s ICT, electronics and IMAGE policies. As per government directions, the TGIIC will use these funds to construct Warangal IT Tower phase-2 and IT parks in Karimnagar, Khammam, Nizamabad, Siddipet and Nalgonda.
In his Budget speech, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, who also holds the Finance portfolio, highlighted the expansion of the fibre grid facility to remote areas to enhance internet and cable network access. The government has allocated Rs 50 crore for this project. “This will not only enable internet and cable network facilities for locals but also be useful for tourists, aiding eco-tourism development,” the minister said earlier.
Another Rs 50 crore has been earmarked to bolster state communication, with a special focus on the SDC, which will be upgraded with the latest servers to meet needs of all departments.