Question : SOFTWARE EXPORT

(a) whether the Karnataka`s overall software exports registered a growth rate of 72 percent by notching up software exports of Rs.7,475 crore surpasing the targeted exports of Rs.6,400 crore;

(b) if so, the corresponding growth rate in the previous fiscal year;

(c) the extent to which it has increased during the current financial year;

(d) whether it is also a fact that despite the US slowdown, software exports target for the current fiscal has been pegged at Rs.11,000 crore;

(e) if so, the facts thereof; and

(f) the details of the target set for the next fiscal year?

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

(a): Yes. Sir.

(b): Corresponding growth rate in the previous fiscal year (1999-2000) was 35%.

(c): The growth rate of software exports increased from 35% in 1999-2000 to 72% in 2000-01.

(d),(e) and (f): Yes, Sir. The Industry comprises of large Indian companies, MNCs and small and medium companies. The impact of the US slowdown has been different for the above three categories of the industry. The export target estimated by the Industry for the financial year 2001-02 is Rs.11,000 crores.