Green signal for three SEZs near Surat

Jewellery sector expected to receive much needed boost

The Central government has on September 24 agreed in principle to develop three special economic zones in the state.

All the SEZs will come in and around Surat. The first will be in the Hazira belt. The second will come in Pandesara area, which includes an apparel park. The third SEZ will be developed in Ichhapore, where there is a gems and jewellery park.

The industry in Surat has welcomed the government's decision to develop an SEZ in the jewellery park in Ichhapore, saying it would give an impetus to the emerging sector.

Chandrakant Sanghvi, president, Gujarat Hira Bourse, said, "The jewellery sector will get a thrust from developing an SEZ here. It will encourage more and more industrialists to set up units in the park. This will boost jewellery production and exports, which in turn, will increase employment opportunities."

Nanu Vanani, president, Surat Diamond Association, said, "The decision will benefit both the government and industry. While the industry will get tax exemptions, the government will be able earn valuable foreign exchange."

"The domestic jewellery sector has not developed much. Our share in the global jewellery market is just 2 per cent. There is huge potential externally. The government's decision to set up an SEZ will give an impetus," Vanani added.

Pravin Nanavati, joint secretary, Gujarat Hira Bourse, said, "Surat is the biggest centre for diamond polishing and cutting. We are, however, nowhere when it comes to the global scene. So, the Centre's decision to develop the SEZ in the jewellery park, is certainly a welcome move. It would allow us to develop a foothold in the global jewellery market."

About the progress of the proposed gem and jewellery park in Ichhapore, Nanavati said, "We are purchasing 20 lakh sq metre of land at Ichhapore from the state government for Rs 45 crore.

"We have deposited Rs 7.50 crore with the state government last week. The remaining amount will be paid in the next three months. We will take possession of the land shortly, after which plotting will be started."

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Booster dose

• The first SEZ will be in the Hazira belt. The second will come in Pandesara area and the third SEZ will be developed in Ichhapore
• Ichhapore SEZ is expected to give an impetus to the domestic jewellery industry