Japan looks at major role in India's infra sector

Japan on Wednesday said it is looking at playing a bigger role in development of India's infrastructure, especially the construction sector.

"As many as 900 Japanese companies are currently invested in India, especially in the manufacturing sector... However, only a few companies have invested in infrastructure space. Japan's construction companies are capable enough to contribute in it and Japan government too has plans to invest in infra," Japanese ambassador to India Takeshi Yagi said.

Addressing the second Indo-Japan Construction Forum in New Delhi, Yagi said his country has a role in augmenting infrastructure and Delhi Metro is a shining example of it.

The Indian government's focus on infrastructure during the 12th Five Year Plan (2012-17) too offers a unique chance to Japanese investors to tap business opportunities here and showcase their products, he added.

Vice minister for land and infrastructure, Japan, Yuichi Masuda, said both the countries should look at greater collaboration in the sector.

Advisor, transport, in the Planning Commission, Manoj Singh said the government has accorded priority to infrastructure development during the 12th Plan including augmenting road and power sectors and Japan could offer its expertise and technology.

Chairman, Construction Industry Development Council, Chander Verma, said the present construction did not even met the requirement of 50 per cent of the population and it needed massive efforts to bridge the gap.