Sakthivel, president of Federation of Indian Export Organisation (FIEO) - all ex-officio members of the board - apart from representatives of export promotion councils.

The minister, who received various suggestions from the industry representatives, said: 'Steps have been taken, steps will be taken and those will get clearly reflected in the new policy.'

'I would like to establish an inter-ministerial task force which oversees its implementation also discussed with the members about the global economic slowdown and possible measures required to enhance India's export competitiveness,' he added.

At the meting, FICCI chief Singhania called for special emphasis on services exports, and suggested the creation of a technology upgrade fund scheme for engineering goods, which constitute around a quarter of India's total exports.

Exporters also asked for extension of interest subsidy to additional sectors such as granite, marble and rubber products; income tax benefit for export profits for a temporary period; compensation for inland freight cost; reimbursement of state taxes and levies, and extension of the duty entitlement pass book (DEPB) scheme - an export incentive scheme - beyond Dec 31.