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(a) whether the export of agro-products are banned from the country;
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(b) if so, the details thereof and the way in which this policy is beneficial for the country; and
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(c) the steps taken by the Government to remove such restriction?
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(a) whether the export of agro-products are banned from the country;
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(b) if so, the details thereof and the way in which this policy is beneficial for the country; and
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(c) the steps taken by the Government to remove such restriction?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY ( SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY )
( a ) & ( b) : No, Sir. There is no general ban on export of agricultural products from the country. Most of the agricultural products are freely exportable, except a few which are subject to either licensing requirement, or quantitative ceilings, or their export is being allowed through certain designated State Trading Enterprises. Export of agro-products like Paddy ( Rice in husk), Pulses in packing beyond 5 kgs, Seeds of certain varieties, Rice bran ( raw and boiled), Fodder, Deoiled groundnut cakes etc. is permitted under licence. Export of Onions, Niger Seeds, Gum Karaya etc. is allowed through certain designated State Trading Enterprises. Wheat, Grain and Flour of Barley, Maize, Bajra, Ragi, Jawar etc. are subject to quantitative ceilings. The policy of the Government for export of agricultural products is governed principally by the consideration of country`s food security, maximizing farm incomes and earning foreign exchange.
( c ) : The review of export performance of agricultural products is an ongoing process and policy interventions are made as and when considered necessary with a view to making agricultural exports increasingly viable. During the current year 2001-2002, the Government has removed quantitative restrictions on export of Sugar and Wheat products.