Question : ROLE OF STATES IN EXPORTS

(a) whether the Union Government are considering to give place to `States` to participate in the exports;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether any guidelines have been issued to State Government in this regard;

(d) if so, the details thereof alongwith the special facilities likely to be provided to State Governments;

(e) whether the Government are also considering to compile State-wise data of exports; and

(f) if so, the time by which final decision in this regard is likely to be taken?

MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (SHRI MURASOLI MARAN)

(a) to (f) : A new Central scheme for providing central assistance to States for development of export infrastructure and allied activities is to be implemented from the current year 2001-2002. The Central Government will provide grants to the State Governments on the basis of their export performance and the incremental annual growth in their exports. In the current year, an outlay of Rs.97 crores has been provided for the scheme. The guidelines of the scheme are under formulation. It is proposed that 50% of the total outlay earmarked for the States will be allocated on the basis of their total exports and the balance 50% will be allocated on the basis of the annual growth in their exports. Shipping Bill format has been amended with effect from 1.4.2001 to collect information in respect of the State of origin of the goods exported.