Question : AEZS IN GUJARAT AND ODISHA

(a) the details of the Agri-Export Zones (AEZs) set up during the last three years, State-wise, items-wise;

(b) the details of the work carried out by these AEZs to promote trade, improve quality and increase productivity of the products;

(c) the details of the export carried out through these AEZs State-wise, product-wise and value-wise;

(d) whether any deficiencies/irregularities have been noticed in the implementation of the scheme;

(e) if so, the details of the projects wherein such irregularities have been noticed and action taken by the Government thereon; and

(f) the details of the fresh proposals received by the Government for setting up of new AEZs State-wise and product-wise and the steps taken to encourage private parties to invest in AEZs?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) Madam, no new Agri Export Zones (AEZs) have been notified by the Central Government in the last three years anywhere in the country.

(b&c) Does not arise.

(d&e) A peer review of the existing AEZs was carried out in 2005 to assess the performance of AEZs. In general, some of the important findings of the peer review include i) Lack of ownership by Government Authority and their Agencies, ii) Lack of awareness about the scheme and its conceptual framework among stakeholders including State Government field establishments, iii) Lack of project orientation in the conceptual design of AEZ, iv) Lack of coordination/ monitoring system in AEZs, v) Non materialization of adequate public investment from Central and State Governments, vi) Indiscreet proliferation of AEZs etc. On the basis of above findings, it has been decided not to consider setting up new AEZ’s unless there are strong compelling reasons.

(f) Since 2005, about 35 new AEZ proposals have been received so far, the details are Annexed.