The idea of a Mexican model shutdown of Pune has few takers in the IT industry as a majority feel that the move will hamper the growth of the business, which is on a recovery phase after the global slowdown. The IT Inc points out that most companies have put in place adequate guidelines regarding H1N1 and have even given its employees the option to work from home.

Ganesh Natarajan, CEO, Zensar Technologies, said he was strongly against the idea of a Mexican-model shutdown since it would take the IT industry five years back in its growth trajectory. “The administration should be cautious before taking such decisions as it will have an adverse impact on the business. Pune is part of the global IT destination, a feat achieved after years of good work.”

He said Zensar has issued travel and medical guidelines regarding H1N1 and employees have also been allowed to work from home. “Even if the employees want to take care of family members who have fallen ill, we have given them the permission to work from home. Also, if any employee shows symptoms of swine flu, we ask him or her to take an off.”

City-based Persistent Systems Limited, with a 3,000-strong workforce in the city, is also against the total shutdown on grounds that it would lead to unnecessary panic. “We are taking all the necessary precautions like awareness programmes and medical check-ups for our employees. We are also planning to extend this to the family members of our staff. We are part of the society and we will accept the guidelines from the government, but it’s better not to go for a total shutdown,” said Kishor Balerao, senior vice-president, HR, Persistent Systems.

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