The Government has set ‘strict’ timelines for clearance of various Special Economic Zones (SEZs) related activities by the development commissioners (DC) of the zones.
This has been done to ensure smooth functioning of SEZs and facilitating ease of doing business, an official release said. The development commissioners will be allowed 15 days to examine proposals for setting up of SEZs, including site inspection of land, and sending it to the Commerce Ministry for approval.
For examination of proposals for change of sector, a week’s time will be allowed. A week will also be allowed for examination of proposals for extension of Letter Of Approval up to fourth year, execution of lease deed and in-principle exit orders. Issuance of Form-I for CST exemption has to be done within five days.
“This will work as a catalyst in providing good governance in the SEZs,” the statement said..
These timelines have been uploaded on the SEZ website and will be prominently displayed through notice boards in all development commissioners’ offices as well as on the individual websites of the zones. As per the provisions of the SEZ Act, 2005, an SEZ may be set up either by the Central Government, State Government or any person for manufacture of goods or rendering services or for both or as a free trade warehousing zone. Such proposals duly recommended by the State Government concerned are considered by the Board of Approval for SEZs.