It is reported that in a major boost to port development, the Maharashtra government has given industry status to projects involving the construction of small ports, multi purpose jetties and cargo terminals.

It also announced an eight year holiday on non agriculture tax and waived the requirement for NA clearance of land acquisition for small ports, multipurpose jetties and cargo terminals.

According to officials, the decision, taken as per provisions of the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code, 1966, would benefit projects cleared by the Maharashtra Maritime Board.

There is now no need for non agriculture permission due to a change in land user. Besides, after the completion of a project, the government has made appropriate provisions for waiver of non agriculture tax for eight years.

(Sourced from Exim News Service)