As reported by Indiavision TV, Kerala government has decided to lease out premises at all government offices in the state to Reliance Jio for erecting 4G towers. Government has not yet officially announced the decision which was taken in a high level meeting presided by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.
The news was leaked from minutes of the meeting conducted on 8th October 2014. The meeting was attended by P. K. Kunhalikutty, Minister for Industries and Adoor Prakash, Minister for Revenue. The agenda of the meeting was to lease out premises around government offices and buildings in the state to Reliance Jio Infocomm.
Reliance Jio in Kerala had requested for land space and rooftop area for setting up 4G towers on a 30 year lease. IT secretary of the state, P.H Kurian stated that 4G connectivity is essential for developing IT infrastructure in the state. The decision to lease out space to the particular company was opposed by the revenue department. However, it was overruled by the IT department stating that any company can apply for the same. Finally the decision was made to lease out space to Reliance Jio with certain terms and conditions. Due to opposition from health department, government premises will not be leased out to setup towers near schools, colleges, hospitals and police stations.
Reliance Jio has to pay 10% of the market price as lease for land and it will be revised every 5 year. A one-time fixed fee will also be levied.
