(a) whether the Government has reviewed the EXIM policy for extending benefits of export and import of agricultural products to the farmers;
(b) if so, the details and the outcome thereof;
(c) whether despite increase in availability of agricultural products in the country, export of these products is not upto the desired level;
(d) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(e) the measures taken by the Government to boost export of agricultural products?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SMT. NIRMALA SITHARAMAN)
(a) to (d): Review of EXIM policy is a continuous process undertaken by the Government from time to time. The Government reviews the Foreign Trade Policy in consultation with the administrative Ministries and the Departments concerned and other stake holders, keeping in view the various factors such as availability of goods in the domestic market, production, the price situation and various national and international commitments etc. As a result of such review, export of various agricultural commodities like non-basmati rice, wheat, milk products etc. which were banned earlier were made free for exports. Presently, export of all agricultural commodities [except pulses and edible oils] is free. Government regulates the export of agricultural commodities in such a way that there is no scarcity in the country and it is available to the consumers at reasonable prices and at the same time ensures that the rate should not fall drastically in the domestic market depriving the farmers of remunerative prices. Free export of agricultural commodities will result in higher foreign exchange earnings for the country which will consequently benefit the farmers by giving them higher remunerative price.
(e) The Government had introduced Vishesh Krishi and Gram Udyog Yojna (VKGUY) to encourage exports of Agricultural products. Incentive in the form of duty credit scrip @5% of FOB value of exports are provided under the scheme. Presently more than 750 items are covered under the scheme.