As many as 72 SEZ's have been cleared in the state, which would account for above Rs 60,000-70,000 crore investment in the next three years.

"We have got 'in principal' approval for 72 SEZ to be developed in the state, including two by Reliance," state Industries Minister Ashok Chavan said.

"We are in the process of acquiring land and the entire process was done with utmost sensitivity and care," he said.

When asked about protests by farmers against land acquisition, Chavan said, "There are some issues with regard to land acquisition in areas like Uran, Alibaug, Pen and Panvel for the Reliance SEZ.

"However, CIDCO the nodal agency handling this, is in talks with all stakeholders and all the demands of farmers will be looked into."

Land acquisition matters are handled by the Revenue Department and " we are in touch with them", he said.

"Land under cultivation will not be acquired for such projects and only single crop land would be acquired. Also farmers whose land is acquired will be given all benefits occuring from these SEZ's," Chavan pointed.

Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has 1,40,000 acres of land in its possession and plans to acquire another 50,000 acres.