The concept of Special Economic Zone and its impact on development has attracted the attention of economists as well as planners the world over as they provide foreign exchange earnings with promotion of exports, create jobs to alleviate unemployment, assist in income creation and attract foreign direct investment and technology transfer.

This article outlines some key elements of a human-rights based approach to the compulsory acquisition of land. It shows that the compulsory acquisition of land often proceeds rapidly where the political, economic and legal power of those affected directly is weakest. While expropriation should be a powerful and beneficial tool for disadvantaged people, they are in fact often its victims.

In the last year, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) were a much discussed issue. Most of the discussion focused on two issues, viz. (a) the acquisition of land, rehabilitation, the consequences for farmers and agricultural output, and (b) the cost of the various tax benefits provided to developers of SEZs and the units to be located in them. While these are important issues, they address only the cost aspect of the equation. Taking another path, this paper tries to determine the expected benefits from SEZs and whether they are being achieved.

Dharavi is not just a slum. It is an economic hub churning out a variety of goods, from pottery to branded snacks. It also provides essential services, like recycling waste. But it is all in the informal sector that gives it a competitive edge. It is also why the government does not recognize it. Instead of sops, this SEZ is getting marching orders

Pottery