Question : SOFTWARE EXPORTS

(a) the number of software units in various States at present;

(b) the States which are now exporting software;

(c) the performance of each State in the software export during 1998-99, 1999-2000 and 2000-2001;

(d) the details thereof;

(e) the amount of foreign exchange earned during each of the last three years and the amount likely to be earned during 2001-2002;

(f) whether the Government propose to decentralise this industry in order to promote Software Industry and increase Software export;
(g) if so, details thereof and targets set for software export during 9th plan; and
(h) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI PRAMOD MAHAJAN)

(a): The number of Software Technology Parks of India(STPI) units registered under different STPI centres is enclosed at Annexure- I.

(b),(c) and (d): Figures of state-wise export of Computer Software for the two years 1998-99 and 1999-2000 are enclosed at Annexure-II.

Details for the year 2000-2001 are not available.

(e): The amount of foreign exchange earned from export of Computer Software during the last two years, the estimates for 2000-2001 and the projected targets for the year 2001-02 are enclosed at Annexure-III.

(f): The Software industry is exempt from licensing and can be set up anywhere in the country.

(g) and (h): Export targets for Computer Software during the 9th Five Year Plan and the actual export performance of this sector is enclosed at Annexure-IV.