Maha wants RIL to enhance compensation package for SEZ

The Maharashtra government wants Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), which is developing special economic zone (SEZ) over 10,000 hectares in Raigad district to enhance its compensation package to ensure that the project commences smoothly.

Speaking to media persons, a senior minister said, "At present, the district collector is considering the package announced by the Reliance Industries and expecting a report from the district, which we hope to receive very soon."

He further added, "We are hoping for a recommendation from the collector that people need higher compensation package for their land. Once received, we will demand a higher package from RIL. If the company agrees to higher packages then the state government will give final approval to rehabilitation package." It may be recalled that, in 2006, Reliance Industries announced the rehabilitation package to compensate the farmers at the rate of Rs 25 lakh per hectare.

Besides, RIL also announced to give back 12.5 per cent land back to farmers in proportion of land acquired from them and also provide job to one person each from a family in units coming up in the SEZ. This proposal was earlier approved by the state government in principal, subject to people's approval.

"By and large Reliance Industries package is very good and I believe, if they announce higher package, the opposition for land acquisition will die down," said another minister who is also an MLA from Raigad district.

The minister also claimed that those leading an anti-SEZ agitation are not from the district.