Maha minister proposes separate agro zones in industrial plan

"For setting up separate agro-processing units, the capital investment is huge. There are no huge investments. However, due to incentives in the IIAs, agro-processing units can be encouraged. Like usage of land for residential and commercial purpose, a component for agro processing units should also be introduced," Vikhe-Patil said, adding he would take up the matter in the state Cabinet.

The Industrial Policy launched last week introduced the concept of Integrated Industrial Areas (IIAs), which offer an exit route to developers of special economic zones (SEZs).

The industrial blueprint, cleared by the Cabinet on Wednesday, allows developers of de-notified SEZ projects to use 40 per cent of the land in their possession for residential and commercial purposes.

The proposal has drawn criticism from the NCP but Industries Minister Narayan Rane and Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan defended the move saying that the 40 per cent usage will be allowed only after infrastructure for industrial production in 60 per cent of the land is done.