Date:21/06/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/06/21/stories/2005062101191700.htm

Back Centre mulls study on role of States in boosting exports

Sankar Radhakrishnan

Thiruvananthapuram , June 20

THE Commerce Ministry is looking at commissioning a study on the role of the Centre and States in handling governance issues related to exports, according to Dr Christy Fernandez, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce.

The details of the study are being worked out, he added. The study is part of the effort to get State Governments to play a larger and more active role in export promotion.

"There is a need for greater partnership between the Centre and State Governments and ownership of export promotion by State Governments."

This is essential if India is to achieve its target of exports worth $150 billion by 2009, he added.

The recently established Inter-State Trade Council is a measure taken to create partnerships between States to boost exports.

"In many areas, it is a proactive State Government that can create the conditions and policies that help to boost exports."

For instance, creating an environment that encourages the private sector to invest in export infrastructure is one area in which the State Government can play a major role.