(a) the criteria and reasons taken into consideration to grant Special
Economic Zones in Goa State;
(b) whether the land has been sold for SEZ by the Government of Goa at a
throw away price; and
(c) if so, the details of total land sold for SEZ thereof?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) : The proposals for setting up Special Economic Zones (SEZs) which satisfy the
requirements laid down in the Special Economic Zones Act, 2005 and the Special Economic
Zones Rules, 2006 are considered by the Government. However, as in the case of special
category States like North Eastern States (including Sikkim), Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal
Pradesh & Uttaranchal and the Union Territories), Â Goa has been given relaxation in the
minimum area requirements for multi product and sector specific SEZs considering the
topography, special needs and availability of contiguous vacant areas. In the case of
Goa, the minimum area requirements prescribed for a multi product and sector specific
SEZ are 200 hectares and 50 hectares respectively as against the requirement of 1000
hectares and 100 hectares prescribed for other States.
(b) & (c) : Land being a State subject, decision to identify or allot land for various
purposes, including for SEZs, is taken by the respective State Governments in accordance
with the policies and procedures laid down by them for the purpose. Central Government
has so far granted formal approvals for establishment of only four Special Economic Zones
in Goa covering an area of 290.98 hectares of which only one SEZ over an area of 123.2
hectares to be developed by Meditab Specialities Private Ltd. has been notified
so far.  Â