Ranchi, Aug. 20: The state information technology (IT) department launched a formal search today for a builder to set up a software park at Adityapur in Seraikela-Kharsawan district near Jamshedpur, resurrecting a long-forgotten project that could see fruition two years hence if all goes well.

According to state IT deputy director S.V. Sahu, they sought applications from interested firms to build an STPI (Software Technology Park of India) unit.

As much as 3.5 acre land has been allotted for the project worth Rs 17.73 crore.

"Once we select an agency, it has to complete the construction and other works in 18 months," he said, adding that bids would be opened on September 21.

"We have scheduled a pre-bid meeting on August 26 to interact with the interested parties and allay their concerns, if any, regarding the project," he added.

Sahu maintained that they would initiate similar processes for STPI-Sindri (Dhanbad) in a couple of days. A 3-acre plot has been earmarked near BIT-Sindri for the project, worth Rs 17 crore.

The expenses for both the Adityapur and Sindri projects would be borne buy the state government.

"Now that things have started moving, we hope to get both the projects rolling without glitches," he said.

Sources in the department said that technical sanction for STPI-Deoghar was under process and that a similar project proposed in Bokaro would be initiated after that.

Under a centrally sponsored scheme, STPI are to be set up across the country to promote IT enabled services, boost local economy and generate employment.

However, not much progress has been achieved in Jharkhand so far. Officials said that while the Centre gave a one-time grant depending on the project cost, state governments are to bear the other expenses.