(a) whether the Government proposes to review the existing policy regarding Special Economic Zone (SEZ) projects;
(b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and
(c) the corrective steps taken/proposed to be taken to check the sanctity of purpose
behind the setting up these SEZ projects?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)
(a) to (c) : In terms of SEZ Act, 2005, main objectives of the SEZ Scheme are:
(i) generation of additional economic activity
(ii) promotion of exports of goods and services
(iii) promotion of investment from domestic and foreign sources
(iv) creation of employment opportunities
(v) development of infrastructure facilities
In addition to seven Central Government SEZs and 12 State/Private Sector SEZs set up prior to
the enactment of SEZ Act, 2005, formal approval has been accorded to 578 proposals out of
which 322 SEZs have been notified. As on 31st March, 2009, an investment of Rs. 1,08,903
crore has been made in SEZs and direct employment for 3,87,439 persons has been generated.
Total export of Rs. 99,689 crore has been made from SEZs during the financial year 2008-09
registering a growth of 50% over the exports in the year 2007-08. The Development
Commissioners and Approval Committees of SEZs continuously monitor the operation of SEZs.
Besides, Board of Approval periodically meets to decide new proposals as well as important
issues as and when brought to its notice. Corrective steps as warranted are taken under the
provisions of SEZ Act and Rules.