But if it points to either a siege mentality or to a basic preference for protectionism, not enough has changed in official attitudes. To be sure, Mr Maran's policy statement is both clear and consistent on the logic of opening up. So it must be hoped that these fundamentals will drive future policychanges. Because, while QRs have gone, tariff levels remain high. This has not happened.
Canalisation continues for foodgrains, petroleum products and urea.
Under Articles XX and XXI of Gatt, restrictions also apply to defence and health related items. And since WTO agreements allow for a textile and garment phase-out till 2005, some of these also presumably stay under some kind of import curbs. Mr Maran has promised a duty-hike on milk, if needed. Duties on second-hand cars were also hiked. All of this smells of QRs by another name.