Questions asked by Mr. K.E. Ismail during Rajya Sabha session November – December 2009

No. of questions found: 43

3313. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that about 1000 OBC reserved seats in different courses across about 60 Delhi University (DU) colleges were converted to general category seats and opened for admission this year;

(b) if so, the number of such seats and the reason for not filling up such a huge number of OBC reserved seats, college- wise ; and

(c) the steps proposed to be taken to ensure that OBC reserved seats are not converted to general category in the next academic year?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SMT. D. PURANDESHWARI)

(a) to (c ): According to the information furnished by the University of Delhi, 1483 seats reserved for OBCs in different courses of its 37 colleges were converted into General Category seats due to non-availability of OBC candidates even after allowing 10% relaxation with reference to the percentage for General Category candidates in accordance with the interim order dated 26th August, 2009 passed by the Hon’ble High Court of Delhi in Writ Petition

(Civil) No. 11147/2009. A statement indicating college-wise number of such seats is annexed.

3307. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that the liberal import policy and the generous subsidy extended to palm oil imports is leading to a critical situation for the coconut farmers in Kerala;

(b) if so, whether the State Government of Kerala has demanded from Centre to provide subsidy to the coconut oil as is given to imported palm oil; and

(c) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

(PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a): Government subsidy this year has been extended only to a small quantity of edible oil imported under the Scheme for distribution of imported edible oils through States/UTs, implemented in order to moderate prices of edible oils in the country and to augment its domestic availability. In 2009-10 only about 74,868 tons of refined palmolein has been imported under the Scheme so far. About 45% of edible oils consumed in the country is imported. In 2008-09 (Nov. to Oct.) 65,35,448 tons of palm oils was imported. Export of major edible oils is banned since 17.3.2008. Further, import of palm oil is prohibited through Kerala ports and export of coconut oil is permitted through Cochin port.

(b)&(c): The Government of Kerala, vide its letters dated 29.3.2008, 23.6.2009 and 25.6.2009 had requested that the subsidy given under this Scheme may be allowed for coconut oil. Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala, vide his D.O. letter dated 12.8.2008 had also requested to extend the subsidy of Rs. 15/- per kg. for distribution of coconut oil through the Public Distribution System of Kerala.
The Government of Kerala had been informed that the subsidy under the ‘Scheme for distribution of subsidised imported edible oils through States/UTs’ is restricted to edible oils imported by PSUs and supplied to the States/UTs for distribution, and that the Scheme had no provision to subsidise domestic oils including coconut oil.

3216. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that releasing of surplus water from dams during the period of heavy rains without prior warning has been one of the main reasons for the deteriorated flood situation, recently, in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra:

(b) if so, whether Government has any plan for galvanizing the inter-State and Centre State mechanisms to coordinate actions such as releasing of surplus water from dams, issuing early warnings and evacuating people from the vulnerable areas downstream during such calamities; and

(c) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES

(SHRI VINCENT H. PALA)

(a) No Sir.

(b) & (c) The question does not arise in view of reply to (a) above.

3165. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of PLANNING be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the expert committee set up by the Planning Commission in May 2006 to examine the development process and identify the factors behind the increasing social discontent and extremism has submitted its report;

(b) if so, the gist of its findings and recommendations made; and

(c) Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY)

(a): Yes, Sir. The Expert Group set up by the Planning Commission in May 2006 on “Development Issues to deal with Causes of Discontent, Unrest and Extremism” submitted its report titled “ Development Challenges in Extremist Affected Areas” in April 2008.

(b): The recommendations of the Report are grouped under the following heads, namely,
(i) effective implementation of protective legislations;
(ii) Land related measures;
(iii) recommendations relating to land acquisition and rehabilitation and resettlement;
(iv) livelihood security;
(v) universalisation of basic social services to standards;
(vi) issues related to the Provisions of Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996(PESA);

(vii) State response and
(viii) strengthening the planning system and governance issues.

(c): The Government’s policy is to have a continuously evolving strategy based on consultations with the State Governments and administration at the field level in the background of the recommendations of the Expert Group. Hence a holistic approach is being adopted which covers issues of security, development, administration and public perception. In order to supplement the efforts of the State Governments in this regard, 33 districts, which have been worst affected by Left Wing Extremism, have been identified for focused attention and development efforts are being closely reviewed.

395. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Central team which visited the areas badly affected by the heavy rains during the month of June this year in Kerala, has submitted its report;

(b) if so, what were its findings as to the extent of loss suffered by the State and recommendations made, if any;

(c) whether Government has granted any special financial assistance to the State for the relief and rehabilitation measures being undertaken by the State Government; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)

(a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.395 FOR 16.12.2009 REGARDING “CENTRAL TEAM`S FINDINGS ON HEAVY RAINS IN KERALA”

(a) to (d): An Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT) visited the State of Kerala from 2nd – 6th August 2009 for an on-the-spot assessment of damage caused by heavy rains & floods during July, 2009 and has submitted its report. As per the report of the IMCT, 33 human lives were lost; 177 cattle perished; 39233 ha. of cropped area damaged, 13926 houses affected and also damage to infrastructure under various sectors. The IMCT recommended an assistance of Rs.116.90 crore from National Calamity Contingency Fund (NCCF) and Rs.1.85 crore from Special Component of Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP). The High Level Committee (HLC), based on the assessment of the IMCT, recommendations of the Inter-Ministerial Group thereon and extant items & norms of assistance under Calamity Relief Fund (CRF), approved
(i) an amount of Rs.61.36 crore from NCCF subject to the adjustment of 75% of balance available in the CRF account of the State for the instant calamity and
(ii) Rs.1.85 crore from Special Component of ARWSP for repair of damaged drinking water supply works.
As per the Scheme of CRF/NCCF, a CRF has been constituted for each State to ensure ready availability of funds with the States to undertake rescue and relief operations in the wake of identified natural calamities. Additional financial assistance is also provided from NCCF when a calamity is of a severe nature and the funds in the CRF account are inadequate for relief operations. The corpus of CRF is contributed between the Government of India and the States in the ratio of 75:25. An amount of Rs.103.91 crore has been allocated to the State in CRF for the year 2009-10 consisting of Rs.77.93 crore as Central contribution and Rs.25.98 crore as State contribution. Both the installments of Central share of CRF amounting to Rs.77.93 crore have been released to the State Government.

2881. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is fact that the existing standards for cow milk are 3.5 per cent fat and 8.5 per cent Solid Not Fat (SNF) under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act (PFA);

(b) whether it is also a fact that the Indian Dairy Association (IDA), Kerala chapter has made recommendation to the Central and State Government for lowering the SNF valued under the PFA to 8.3 per cent as the average SNF of cow milk is below 8.4 per cent due to massive cross breeding of cows with high yielding ones; and

(c) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI DINESH TRIVEDI)

(a) Yes.

(b) &(c)- The Food Safety & Standards Authority of India has informed that no such recommendation from the India Dairy Association (IDA), Kerala Chapter has been received for lowering the SNF value for cow milk under Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Rules 1955 to 8.3 percent. However, a proposal was received from the Government of Kerala for lowering the SNF content of cow milk for the State of Kerala from 8.5% to 8.2% in January 1999 which was examined by the Milk and Milk Products Sub-Committee of Central Committee for Food Standards (CCFS), which recommended that there is no case to amend the specification of cow milk.

377. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL

Will the Minister of RURAL DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that most of the employees of District Rural Development Agencies (DRDA) in some States have not been getting their salary for the last few months due to stoppage of funds by the Central Government as per some guidelines ;

(b) if so, the details of new guidelines issued and States which have not paid the salary regularly;

(c) whether the Sixth Pay Commission`s recommendations have not been implemented in the case of DRDA employees;

(d) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto; and

(e) what measures are being taken to ensure timely payment of salary to DRDA employees and also to implement the Sixth Pay Commission`s recommendations in their regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT

(DR. C. P. JOSHI)

(a) to (e): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred to in reply to Lok Sabha Starred Question No. 377 to be answered on 15.12.2009

(a): No Sir. There is no stoppage of funds to any State by the Central Government under District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) Administration Scheme.

(b): No new guidelines have been issued effecting stoppage of salary to DRDAs. During the current financial year out of total allocation of Rs. 250 crore an amount of Rs. 183.46 crore has already been released to all States. The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has reported that the DRDA employees are not being paid salaries and wages for the last eight to ten months due to paucity of funds.

(c)&(d): DRDA being the society of the State Governments, the salary structure of its employees is decided by the States. The decision regarding implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission`s recommendations in respect of DRDA employees rests with the State Government. Under the DRDA Administration Scheme, administrative cost ceiling is fixed by the Central Government, of which 75% (90% in case of North Eastern States and 100% in case of Union Territories) is shared by the Government of India and 25% in case of non-North Eastern States (10% in case of North Eastern States) is shared by the States. Any increase over and above this ceiling should be met entirely by the State Governments.

(e): There is no delay on the part of the Ministry in release of funds to the DRDAs. The Ministry releases the 1st instalment (which is 50% of the budgeted allocation) at the beginning of the financial year to eligible DRDAs and releases funds for the 2nd instalment on receipt of proposals from the concerned States/DRDAs as per financial norms. Efforts are being made to get higher allocation under the Scheme from the Planning Commission to meet the salary requirement of DRDA staff as per the requirements indicated by the State Governments.

2752. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether he had called a conference of the State power ministers to discuss about the slippages in the capacity addition in the power sector;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) what are the problems being faced by various State Government`s in commissioning new power plants and the steps being taken to solve the problems?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) to (c) : Yes, Sir. Conference of Power Ministers of States was held on 15th November, 2009 at New Delhi to discuss following issues:-

(i) Capacity Addition;

(ii) Open Access;

(iii) Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana; and

(iv) Re-structured APDRP.
After detailed discussion, a Resolution was adopted at the end of the conference incorporating the steps to be taken to expedite progress in Capacity Addition and facilitate implementation of RGGVY, R-APDRP and Open Access.
Ministry of Power has been actively interacting with and monitoring through meetings/discussions with BHEL as well as with State Power Utilities regularly, to expedite commissioning of new power plants as per schedule and to prevent slippages.

2733. SHRI D. RAJA
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that the Secretary of the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) was promoted to its Chairman on October 13, 2009;

(b) if so, whether it is a fact that there were at least three cases of disciplinary action against him and his Ministry processed his appointment without Vigilance Clearance from the Commission; and

(c) if so, the details thereof and the Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) : Yes, Sir. Ministry of Power issued Order No.14/1/2007-DVC on 13th October, 2009 regarding appointment of the then Secretary, DVC as Chairman, DVC from the date of assumption of the charge of the post, on deputation basis for the period upto 21.05.2011 and he took over the charge of Chairman, DVC on the forenoon of 14th October, 2009.

(b) : Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) in its letter dated 20.10.2009 has informed Ministry of Power that in a case arising out of the CTE (Chief Technical Examiner) examination of some works in DVC, the Commission has advised disciplinary action against the newly appointed Chairman, DVC and the advice was being communicated separately. In two more cases, his role has been found to attract disciplinary action. The Ministry was being addressed separately in those two cases. CVC has further advised Ministry of Power to revisit its decision regarding appointment of Chairman, DVC. However, no communication advising initiation of disciplinary action against the newly appointed Chairman, DVC has been received from CVC in the Ministry of Power.

(c) : After receipt of the Communication of CVC dated 20.10.2009, Ministry of Power has taken up the matter of newly appointed Chairman, DVC with the Department of Personnel & Training and the matter is under consideration of the Government.

2462. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether M.S. Swaminathan Commission has recommended restructuring of various commodity boards so that they can be better catalyst for the productivity and quality; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

(SHRI K.V. THOMAS)

(a) & (b): No such recommendation has been made by the National Commission on Farmers

(NCF) set up under the chairmanship of Prof. M.S. Swaminathan. However, in the context of conservation, cultivation and marketing of medicinal plants, it made a recommendation for mandating different commodity boards for promoting intercropping with plantation crops like coffee, rubber, spices and coconut.

331. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has a proposal to increase the Central Issue Price (CIP) of foodgrains supplied to Above Poverty Line (APL) families through the Public Distribution System; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?
Answer
MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

(SHRI SHARAD PAWAR)

(a)&(b): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE STARRED QUESTION NO.331 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 11.12.2009 IN THE RAJYA SABHA.

(a)&(b): Central Issue Prices (CIP) of wheat and rice supplied to Above Poverty Line (APL) families through Public Distribution System (PDS) have not been revised since 2002. During this period, Government have increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) in order to provide more remunerative prices to farmers. Costs on account of other incidentals of procurement have also increased. This has led to an escalation in food subsidy and created a large gap between CIP for APL families and open market prices. The Department is examining a proposal to revise the CIPs of wheat and rice for APL category with a view to reducing the difference between the CIPs for APL and market price of wheat and rice.

2277. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has agreed to include Thrissur-Kanyakumari stretch in the proposed National Expressway Network under the National Highway Development Programme (NHDP);

(b) if so, whether the Kerala Government has requested the Centre to extend this stretch upto Kasargod so as to cover the entire length of the State; and

(c) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI R.P.N. SINGH)

(a) to (c) The Ministry had awarded a Consultancy Services for Formulation of a Master Plan for the National Expressway Network in the country. The Final Report submitted by the Consultants, duly considering the views / observations received from the State Governments and inter-alia recommending development of total Expressway Network of about 18,637 km, has been accepted by the Government. State Government of Kerala had requested for extending the National Expressway from Thrissur to Kasargod and Mangalore. However, from overall perspective of broad integration of the Expressway Network in the entire country and keeping in view the existing connectivity, the Final Report has inter-alia recommended to include Thrissur-Kanyakumari stretch in the proposed National Expressway Network.

2276. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has approved the construction of Thalassery-Mahe bypass starting from Muzhappilangad in Kannur district and joining at Azhiyoor in Kozhikode district of total length 18.031 km in Kerala;

(b) if so, the details of the project and the progress so far made in its implementation;

(c) whether it is a fact that the land acquisition of the second phase of the project is progressing at a slow pace; and

(d) if so, the steps being taken to speed up the land acquisition and early construction of the project?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI R. P. N. SINGH)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) The construction of Thalassery-Mahe bypass has been included in the project of 4-laning of Kannur-Vengalam (Kozhikode district) section of NH 17 in Kerala (Km 148.00 to km 230.00) under National Highway Development Project (NHDP)-Phase III. The Letter of Award (LOA) has already been issued to lowest bidder. Presently land acquisition is in progress.

(c) No, Sir.

(d) Does not arise.

2180. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the negative list of 489 items in Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has been approved by the seven members of the pact; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) The items included in the Exclusion (Negative) List of India’s offer have been agreed by all the ten ASEAN members countries. These are 1297 items at 8 – digit classification equivalent to 496 items at 6 – digit classification.

(b) The details of items included in the Exclusion (Negative) List of India’s offer are available at http://commerce.gov.in/trade/international_ta_indasean.asp

1800. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that Government of Kerala is finding it difficult to finance the cost of land acquisition for the Rail Over Bridges (ROBs) in the State due to prohibitive land value in the State;

(b) whether the State Government has requested Railways to share the land acquisition cost with the State Government on a 1:1 ratio; and

(c): if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

( SHRI E. AHAMED )

(a) & (b): Yes Sir.

(c): Principal Secretary, Public Works Department, Kerala State Government has requested to consider possibility of sharing land acquisition cost with State Govt. at the ratio of 1:1 citing reasons that land is scarce and cost of acquisition is prohibitive in Kerala, in comparison to other States and State Govt. is finding it difficult to finance the cost of land acquisition for all the proposed works of Road over/under bridges. Due to heavy liability in hand with Railways (as 830 works already sanctioned on cost sharing basis in the country) with meagre allocation of funds from Central Road Fund for construction of Road over/under bridges, it has not been found feasible for Railways to share cost of land acquisition also at the ratio of 1:1 under extant rules. State Govt. has been apprised of the position.

1788. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government of Kerala had discussed the matter of executing MoU for construction of some Railway Over Bridges (ROBs) with her Ministry; and

(b) if so, the details and the outcome thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

( SHRI E. AHAMED )

(a) & (b): There is no latest communication from State Govt. in this regard. However, in the year 2002 a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was entered into between Railways & PWD of State Govt. of Kerala to execute 20 works, out of which 15 works have been commissioned. 24 more works were also entrusted to Road Building Development Corporation of Kerala (RBDCK) for execution by State Govt.

1684. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that only one district Palakkad in Kerala has been included in the National Food Security Mission;

(b) if so, whether Government of Kerala has requested Central Government to include Thrissur, Malappuram and Kuttanad districts of Kerala under the National Food Security Mission; and

(c) if so, the details and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION)

(SHRI K.V. THOMAS)

(a): Yes, Sir. Only one district of Palakkad in Kerala has been included under National Food Security Mission (NFSM) i.e. NFSM-Rice.

(b) & (c): This Ministry received representation from the State Governments apart from other dignitaries including Members of Parliament.
The above representations were examined. The districts under NFSM are included based on certain criteria i.e. for NFSM-Rice, those districts were identified which have more than 50,000 ha area under rice and productivity less than the State`s average productivity; for NFSM- Wheat the districts in which irrigation coverage under wheat is more than 50% and productivity is less than State`s average were identified. The districts for implementation of NFSM-Pulses have been selected based on existing large area under pulses, potential for area expansion through inter-cropping and utilization of rice fallows.
Since only one district i.e. Palakkad qualified the above objective criteria, this district was included under NFSM-Rice for area based interventions. As regards other rice growing districts in Kerala, the State Government was advised to take these districts under the Integrated Cereals Development Programmes-Rice of Macro Management Scheme or under newly launched Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).

1617. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL P. RAJEEVE A. VIJAYARAGHAVAN
Will the Minister of SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the State Government of Kerala has submitted any proposal to the Department of Biotechnology to set up DNA profiling Data Bank in the State for its approval and sanction of the necessary funds; and

(b) if so, the details of the project proposal and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND EARTH SCIENCES

(SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)

(a) & (b) The State Government of Kerala has not submitted any formal proposal to the Department of Biotechnology to set up DNA profiling Data Bank.

1539. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
P. RAJEEVE M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government provides financial assistance to the States to set up special data infrastructure;

(b) if so, whether Government has provided financial assistance to the State of Kerala in this regard; and

(c) whether any steps had been taken by Government in this direction?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

(SHRI SACHIN PILOT)

(a): Yes, Sir.

(b) and (c): Government has approved a project for setting up of `State Data Center` for the State of Kerala in March 2008 with a total outlay of Rs.55.68 crores to meet the capital and operational expenses over a period of 5 years. An amount of Rs.11..63 crores has been released so far in this regard.

1538. SHRI A. VIJAYARAGHAVAN
K.E. ISMAIL M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Kerala State Government has submitted a proposal to set up a project entitled `Kudumbini` to provide BPO facility for women at home on a pilot basis in Kozhikode district of Kerala with a total project cost of Rs.575 lakh; and

(b) if so, the details of the project and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

(SHRI SACHIN PILOT)

(a): Government of Kerala vide its letter – DO No.4332/B1/2008/ITD dated 27.09.2008 has submitted a proposal for `Kudumbini Women BPO`.

(b): This project proposal was for utilizing the power of ICT to distribute work spatially and provide supplementary income to women who are otherwise unable to go out for work. The Department has decided not to provide any financial support for the project.

1501. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that NH-17 and NH-47 are included under NHDP Phase-II and III for 4/6 laning through NHAI;

(b) the detail of projects in various stretches being taken up for implementation and the present stage of the implementation;

(c) whether it is also a fact that the progress of implementation is very slow; and

(d) if so, the steps being taken to speed up the completion of these projects?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI R. P. N. SINGH)

(a) and (b) Yes Sir. The details of projects under implementation of NH-17 and NH-47 are annexed.

(c ) and (d) Some ongoing projects are delayed due to delay in land acquisition and no response from the prospective bidders. Additional land acquisition units are opened and State Governments are requested to expedite the land acquisition. Projects have been restructured to increase the viability to attract more bidders.

1494. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the NHAI has taken up the construction of Alappuzha bypass starting from Kommady (NH-47);

(b) whether it is a fact that the traffic through the bypass could not be started due to the non-completion of two ROB’s on this bypass; and

(c) if so, the steps being taken to sanction additional funds for the construction of these ROB’s so that the traffic on this bypass is started at the earliest?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI R. P. N. SINGH)

(a) Four lane Alappuzha bypass starting from Kommady and ending at Kalarcode on NH-47 has been included under National Highways Development Project Phase III to be implemented by National Highways Authority of India for which bids have been received.

(b) Yes, Sir.

(c) The two ROBs are forming part of the project referred to in reply to part (a) of the question.

1493. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the construction of Kollam bypass starting from Altharamoodu and joining at Mevaram is taken up by NHAI;

(b) if so, the details of the projects and the progress made so far;

(c) whether it is a fact that the fund allotted to the project is not sufficient to complete the projects on time; and

(d) if so, whether Government will sanction additional fund for the project?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI R. P. N. SINGH)

(a) and (b) Four lane Kollam bypass starting from Altharamoodu and ending at Mevaram on NH- 47 has been included under National Highways Development Project Phase III to be implemented by National Highways Authority of India for which bids have been received.

(c) No, Sir.

(d) Does not arise.

1266. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that the. Ministry of Urban Development has proposed the Kochi Metro Rail Project, a joint venture of the Kerala State and the Centre for the approval of his Ministry for its implementation and sanction of the fund; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto ?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE

(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) & (b): A proposal for the Kochi Metro Rail Project is yet to undergo due appraisal/approval process. No proposal is pending with Ministry of Finance on date.

1239. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a, fact that the State Government of Kerala has expressed its opinion that the revival scheme for Rural Co-operative Credit Structure based on the Task Force headed by Prof. Vaidyanathan need to be modified taking into account the specific requirements of the State and the amendment proposed to the Banking Regulation Act 1949 as part of the legal and Institutional reforms may be dropped by the Central Government; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE

(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) : Yes, Sir.

(b) : The major issues on which the Government of Kerala has not.agreed with the provisions of the Government of India Revival Package for the Rural Co-operative Credit Structure are as under:

Removal of Stale intervention in all financial and administrative matters of Co-operative Credit Structure (CCS). Ban on acceptance of deposits from non-members by cooperatives other than banks. Restrictions on Cooperatives other than Cooperatives Banks using the word `bank`,`banking`,`banker`. All regulatory interventions of RBI. Fit and proper criteria by RBI for cooperative banks.

The Revival Package is to be implemented in a uniform manner in all States/UTs. Accepting the revival package, twenty-five State Governments have signed the MoU with Government of India and NABARD. This covers more than 96% of the Short Term Cooperative Credit Structure (STCCS) units in the country.

1189. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of TRIBAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that most of the States have failed to implement the Scheduled Tribes and other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 in an effective manner;

(b) if so, how far it has been implemented in different States; and

(c) the measures being taken by the Central Government to ensure proper and speedy implementation of the Act?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TRIBAL AFFAIRS

(DR. TUSHAR A. CHAUDHARY)

(a)&(b): No, Sir. The responsibility for implementing the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 and vesting the rights lies with the State/UT Governments. The States have progressed in varying degrees in implementation of the Act. While the States like Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tripura and West Bengal have established the prescribed structures and procedures, have received a large number of claims and have started distributing the title deeds, other States, because of various reasons, are still to catch up. As per the information collected till 31st October 2009, more than 24.90 lakh claims have been filed and more than 5.68 lakh titles have been distributed. More than 43 thousand titles were ready for distribution. Status of State-wise implementation of the Act is given in Annexure.

(c): The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has been interacting with all the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations urging them to expedite implementation of the Act. Review meetings with the concerned officers of the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations are being held at regular intervals. The officers of the Ministry are also visiting the States to assess and guide the pace of implementation. The Ministry has advised and is pursuing all the State/ UT Governments to ensure completion of the work relating to vesting of forest rights by end of December, 2009.

150. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL

Will the Minister of WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) Act provides for constitution of State Commission for Protection of Child Rights in each State;

(b) if so, the States which have set up such commissions; and

(c) the composition of the NCPCR, the criteria for selection of its members and when the National Commission was set up?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT (SHRIMATI KRISHNA TIRATH)

(a),(b)&(c) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 150 FOR 30.11.2009 REGARDING STATE COMMISSIONS FOR PROTECTION OF CHILD RIGHTS BY SHRI K. E. ISMAIL

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) Delhi, Goa, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Sikkim have set up the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

(c) As provided under the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005 the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) shall consist of a Chairperson and six Members. At present, NCPCR has a Chairperson and two Members in position.

As per the Act, six Members, out of which at least two shall be women, from the following fields, to be appointed by the Central Government from amongst persons of eminence, ability, integrity, standing and experience in:- Education Child Health, care, welfare or child development Juvenile Justice or care of neglected or marginalized children or children with disabilities; Elimination of child labour or children in distress; Child psychology or sociology; and Laws relating to children.
NCPCR was set up on 5th March, 2007.

924. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government of Kerala has submitted a number of projects worth Rs. 277 crores for the Kuttanad and Idukki packages as recommended by M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation Report;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether out of this, project worth Rs. 25 crores only has been approved as there are no corresponding or suitable schemes in Central Government;

(d) if so, whether State Govenment has sought an additional allocation under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana to the tune of Rs. 105 crores over and above the normal entitlement for implementation of the said projects; and

(e) if so, the details and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

(PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a) & (b): Government of Kerala has submitted 26 projects involving an amount of Rs.390.36 crore under the package for development of Kuttanad Wetland Eco-system and 23 projects involving an amount of Rs.459.62 crore under the package for mitigation of farmers distress in Idukki District of Kerala.

(c): No, Sir. Central Government has approved projects involving amount of more than Rs.200 crore under Kuttanad and Idukki packages.

(d): No, Sir.

(e): Does not arise. The implementation issues in the packages are being sorted out on a continuous basis with Government of Kerala. Various decisions to speed up have been taken in the last review meeting that took place on 23.11.2009.

922. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that with the advent of commercialization, the traditional livestock farmers now rear more than 3-4 cows which are highly productive and they expect veterinary services at door-steps owing to the constraints in transporting animals to veterinary institutions;

(b) if so, whether Government of Kerala has made a proposal to include schemes for providing round the clock and door-step veterinary services to the farmers under the Central Government schemes to provide assistance to such activities in future to support commercial dairying in the State; and

(c) if so, the details and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR AGRICULTURE, CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

(PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a) to (c) Yes, Sir. Government of India has been implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, namely, “National Project for Cattle and Buffalo Breeding” (NPCBB) for genetic upgradation of bovine population on priority basis. One of the objectives of the scheme is to arrange delivery of quality breeding inputs and services at the farmers’ door-step. Kerala is participating under the scheme since 2001-02 and central assistance to the tune of Rs. 33.77 crore has been released to the State including Rs 300.00 lakh released during current year.

603. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that about one-sixth of the area under rubber farming in Kerala have either senile or less productive trees which needs to be replanted; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and what measures are being taken for the replantation of such rubber trees?
Answer

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) & (b) : The total rubber area in Kerala which requires replanting in 2010 comes to around 48,000 ha. i.e 10 % of the total rubber area in the state. The replantation is being promoted through the Rubber Plantation Development Scheme in the 11th Five Year Plan. The scheme provides free technical assistance for replanting and financial assistance of Rs. 19,500/- per ha. for replanting an area upto 2 ha.

602. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has been signed between India and Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN);

(b) if so, the salient features thereof;

(c) whether the Kerala Chief Minister had met Prime Minister by the end of the last Budget Session and had expressed the concern of the farmers of cash crops over the FTA agreement provisions and the PM has assured the CM that prior discussions will be held before the signing of the agreement; and

(d) if so, why the discussion was not held and what is the Government`s response to the concern expressed by the Chief Minister in this regard?
Answer

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) & (b) Yes, Sir. India and ASEAN have signed a Trade in Goods Agreement on 13th August, 2009 which is envisaged to come into force with effect from 1st January, 2010. The Agreement mainly consists of exchange of tariff concessions by India and ASEAN Countries during 01.01.2010 and 31.12.2024.

(c) A delegation of political representatives from Kerala headed by Chief Minister of Kerala met the Prime Minister on 3rd August, 2009. The delegation was assured that:

(i) the India-ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement completely protects the interests of farmers in Kerala with India insisting on a large Negative List of tariff lines under which no tariff concessions whatsoever would be provided to the ASEAN countries and

(ii) a Group of Ministers (GoM) to expeditiously recommend appropriate measures including structural reforms in vulnerable areas such as tea, coffee, pepper and plantations is being set up.

(d) Domestic consultations were held through various rounds of inter –ministerial meetings and stakeholders dialogues during the India – ASEAN FTA negotiations.

592. SHRI PRABHAT JHA
BALAVANT ALIAS BAL APTE K.E. ISMAIL M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has signed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with ASEAN;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether Government believes that this agreement will have a negative effect on Indian agriculture sector;

(d) if so, the details thereof and how Government is going to protect agriculture sector from these negative effects; and

(e) if not, the reaction of the Government in this regard?
Answer

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) India has signed Trade in Goods Agreement with ASEAN on 13th August, 2009. This Agreement is envisaged to come into force from 1st January, 2010.

(c) No, Sir.

(d) Does not arise.

(e) Majority of the agriculture items are protected under the India-ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement by placing them in the Exclusion (Negative) List where no tariff concessions are available to ASEAN countries. A complete list of India’s offer is available at http://commerce.gov.in/trade/international_ta_indasean.asp

81. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL

Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka faced unprecedented floods recently;

(b) if so, the details of damages caused and the financial assistance provided to these States for relief and rehabilitation of the affected people;

(c) whether these States have demanded declaring the current flood situation as a national calamity; and

(d) if so, the details and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)

(a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.81 FOR 25.11.2009 REGARDING “FLOODS IN ANDHRA PRADESH AND KARNATAKA”

(a) to (d): Due to low pressure weather system formed in the Bay of Bengal, 14 districts in Andhra Pradesh and 15 districts in Karnataka experienced severe floods as a result of heavy rains during 29th September to 4th October 2009. As per memoranda received from these States, details of loss of human lives and extent of damage to property are given in the Annexure.

Requests of Government of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka for financial assistance from NCCF in the wake of above floods are being processed. However, pending the processing of their request, second installment of Central share of Calamity Relief Fund (CRF) for the year 2009-10 amounting to Rs.156.835 crore to Andhra Pradesh and Rs.52.26 crore to Karnataka have been released in advance. In addition, in pursuance of the announcement made by the Hon’ble Prime Minister for release of Rs.1000 crore each to Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, an amount of Rs.500 crore each has already been released from NCCF on an ‘on account’ basis. The remaining amount of Rs.500 crore each to these States will be released by the Ministry of Finance after the augmentation of NCCF in the budget.

These States have also requested to declare these floods as National Calamity. Financial assistance in the wake of natural calamity is provided under the Schemes of Calamity Relief Fund (CRF)/National Calamity Contingency Fund (NCCF). A CRF has been constituted for each State, corpus of which is shared between the Government of India and the State Government in the ratio of 75:25.

To meet the requirement of funds for relief operations, in the event of a calamity of severe nature, when resources in the CRF account are inadequate, additional assistance is considered from NCCF, which is 100% funded by the Government of India. As such, in case of calamities of ‘severe nature’, the support to the concerned State Government is provided at National level in the form of logistic and financial support to supplement their efforts to meet the situation effectively. The Scheme for CRF/NCCF does not contemplate to declare any calamity as a “National Calamity”.

538. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL

Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that India has been ranked a poor 65th on Global Hunger Index for 2009 on under nourishment, child malnutrition and child mortality; and

(b) if so, the gist of the report and Government`s reaction to the poor performance of the country in this sector?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a): India is ranked 65th on the Global Hunger Index (GHI), 2009 (as brought out by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) – an alliance of 64 governments, private foundations, and international and regional organizations). The index is based on prevalence of child malnutrition, rates of child mortality and the proportion of people who are calorie deficient. The global hunger index for India has declined from 31.7 to 23.9 for the period 1990 to 2009.
The percentage of children under age three who are underweight has declined from 52 percent, as per the National Family Health Servey 1 (1992-93) to 40 percent, as per the National Family Health Survey 3(2005-06). The rate of under five mortality has declined from 117 per thousand live births in 1990 to 72 in 2007, as per the State of the World’s Children 2009.

(b): As per the Global hunger index 2009 report, released by the International food Policy research Institute, 29 countries have levels of hunger that are alarming or extremely alarming. The countries with the highest 2009 GHI scores are Burundi, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Sierra Leone. In most of the countries with high GHI scores, war and violent conflict have given rise to widespread poverty and food insecurity. Nearly all the countries in which the GHI rose since 1990 are in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The government is implementing the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, Mid-Day Meal Scheme, Wheat Based Nutrition Programme (WBNP), Annapurna Scheme, Nutritional Programme for Adolescent Girls, Village Grain Banks Scheme. Under the Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) programme, Nutritional Rehabilitation Centres are being set up to treat malnourished children.

467. SHRI D. RAJA
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether India has approached Switzerland seeking details about bank accounts held by Indians in Swiss banks; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and the response of the Swiss authorities thereto?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE

(SHRI S.S. PALANIMANICKAM)

(a) and (b): Efforts have been made from time to time to seek such details under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and Swiss Confederation. However, the Swiss Federal Tax Administration has expressed its inability to exchange the information regarding bank deposits of Indian residents as the information was not necessary for the application of the DTAA between India and Swiss Confederation but was required only for the enforcement of Indian internal laws. They also replied that such information was not at their disposal under Swiss laws in the normal course of tax administration.
Further, in connection with the investigation of specific cases, Directorate of Enforcement, if deemed necessary seeks information from foreign jurisdiction in respect of accounts held by Indian Nationals/entities in banks located overseas. However, no roving enquiries are made.

323. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has given permission to Kerala Government for undertaking a forest survey for construction of a new dam in the Mullaperiyar reservoir area; and

(b) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) & (b) Yes Sir. The Ministry of Environment & Forests on the recommendation of Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife in its 16th Meeting on 16.09.2009 has granted permission for undertaking survey and investigation involving an area of 2.5 hectare only against the area of 92,500 ha of Periyar Tiger Reserve subject to compliance of certain conditions as envisaged by the Chief Wildlife Warden, Kerala. However, no such proposal from Kerala Government seeking permission for undertaking forest survey for construction of a new dam in the Mullaperiyar reservoir area has been received under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.

322. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that Government had formed a national network of 127 educational institutions to conduct research on climate changes and to provide solutions to farmers;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether this national network has submitted any report; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the action being taken thereon?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) & (b) The Ministry of Environment is currently engaged in the preparation of India’s Second National Communication to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. A network of 127 institutions has been engaged countrywide belonging to Universities, Research and Development Institutions, autonomous institutions of the government, Non governmental organization and private institutions for studies on various aspects of climate change. These include greenhouse gas emissions of anthropogenic origin from sectors such as Energy, Industry, Agriculture, Forestry and Waste, Assessment and impact of projected climate change on key sectors such as Agriculture, Water, Natural ecosystems, Health, Extreme climate events, etc. The findings of the study on climate change scenarios would be relevant for agriculture sector and farmers.

(c) & (d) The network has not submitted any report.

44. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) Whether Government has made any assessment as what extent the Protection of Women Against Domestic Violence Act, 2005 has been implemented in the States;

(a) If so, the findings thereof;

(b) The details of the number of cases registered and the conviction rate during the last three years, State-wise;

(c) Whether it is a fact that most of the States have not appointed the Protection Officers under the Act to provide relief to the victims; and

(d) If so, the details thereof and the action taken to ensure proper implementation of the law in the States?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

(SHRIMATI KRISHNA TIRATH)

(a), (b), (c),(d) & (e): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred to in reply to Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.44 for 23.11.2009 by SHRI K.E. ISMAIL: SHRI D. RAJA regarding `Implementation of law preventing domestic violence`

(a) to (e): The responsibility of implementing the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 lies with the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations. The Government of India monitors the implementation of the Act through the reports submitted by the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations. According to the information available all the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations have appointed Protection Officers for the implementation of the Act.

The Act primarily aims to secure the civil rights of women facing violence in the domestic environment. The details of cases under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 is annexed.

185. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-

(a) the measures taken by Government since the end of the last Budget Session to keep prices of foodgrains, sugar, pulses, etc. under control; and

(b) the outcome thereof?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

(Prof. K.V. Thomas)

(a) : The Government has already taken a number of steps to control the price rise and to reduce the impact of price rise on consumers such as augmenting domestic supplies of foodgrains through imports at zero/reduced rates of duty and ban on exports. Government Measures to keep prices of foodgrains sugar, pulses etc. under control are given at Annexure I.

(b) : The various steps taken by Government has had a moderating influence on prices of essential commodities.

174. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL

Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that the production of sugar in the current sugar season has declined from 26.3 million tonnes to about 15 million tonnes;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the measures taken to meet the shortage and control the price of sugar in the country?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

(PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a)&(b): The production of sugar in the last sugar season 2008-09 is provisionally estimated at about 14.7 million tons. Thus, production of sugar in the last sugar season is estimated to have declined from 26.3 million tons in 2007-08 sugar season to about 14.7 million tons in 2008-09 sugar season.

(c): The Central Government has taken a slew of measures to meet the shortage and control the prices of sugar in the country as detailed in the enclosed Annexure.

ANNEXURE
ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.174 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 20.11.2009 IN THE RAJYA SABHA.
Measures taken by the Central Government to augment domestic stocks of sugar and to contain sugar prices
> Allowed import of raw sugar under Advance Authorization Scheme by sugar mills at zero duty upto 30.09.2009. > Allowed import of raw sugar at zero duty under O.G.L. upto 01.08.2009 by sugar mills, later extended upto 31.03.2010. This has now been further extended upto 31.12.2010 vide notification dated 11.11.2009. > Import of raw sugar was opened to private trade upto 31.03.2010 for being processed by domestic factories on job basis. This has now been further extended upto 31.12.2010 vide notification dated 11.11.2009. > Allowed duty free import of white/refined sugar by STC/MMTC/PEC and NAFED upto 1 million tons by 01.08.2009 which was extended upto 30.11.2009. Further, duty free import of white/refined sugar under OGL has also been opened to other Central/State Government agencies and to private trade in addition to existing designated agencies, upto 30.11.2009. This has now been extended upto 31.3.2010 vide notification dated 11.11.2009. > Levy obligation has been removed in respect of all imported raw sugar and white/refined sugar. The white/refined sugar has been also allowed to be sold at the discretion of the importing organizations, but sugar processed from imported raw sugar is subject to accelerated releases. > The levy obligation on sugar factories has been enhanced from 10% to 20% of production w.e.f. 01.10.2009 for 2009-10 sugar season only, vide notification dated 7th October, 2009.

1.1 Besides augmenting the sugar stocks by permitting import of raw and white/refined sugar in 2008-09 sugar season, the Central Government has imposed stock holding and turnover limits to moderate prices of sugar as follows:
> Stock-holding and turnover limits on sugar dealers vide notification dated 12.03.2009 for a period of four months, and thereafter for another period of six months i.e. upto 08.01.2010 vide the notification dated 16.7.2009. Further, Khandsari sugar has now been brought under the ambit of stockholding and turnover limit. > An order has been issued vide notification dated 22.08.2009 imposing stockholding limit on large consumers of sugar who are using or consuming more than ten quintals of sugar per month as a raw material for production or consumption or use, stipulating that such bulk consumers shall not hold sugar stock exceeding fifteen days of their requirement. The notification has come into effect from 19.9.2009. > Futures trade in sugar has been suspended in domestic exchanges w.e.f. 27.5.2009 till the end of 2009.

152. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that some farmers from Vadakkencherry in Palakkad district of Kerala had switched over to organic paddy cultivation two years ago with support from local Panchayat and State Agriculture Department and were depending upon export of their produce to remain sustainable;

(b) if so, the details of this experiment and Government`s reaction thereto;

(c) whether Government is also aware that these farmers find it difficult to sell their produce in the domestic market since their cost price is more than ordinary paddy; and

(d) if so, whether Government will consider to lift ban on organic rice export imposed in 2007 to encourage organic farming?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

(PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a): As per information available, a group of farmers from Vadakkencherry in Palakkad district of Kerala have switched over to organic paddy cultivation.

(b)&(c): 13 farmers have switched over to organic paddy cultivation in 18.74 ha. The group was registered with Indian Organic Certification Agency (INDOCERT), Thottumugham (Kerala) during April, 2008 for organic certification. While the cost of production of organic rice is more during initial years of conversion, the yield gap narrows down in 2 to 3 years and comparable yields can be obtained thereafter. At that stage the cost of organic paddy is comparable to conventional paddy.

(d): A proposal has been formulated to permit export of certified organic non-basmati rice subject to a quantitative ceiling.

133. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL

Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) how many districts have been declared drought affected, State-wise and what kind of helps are being extended by the Centre to these States for relief and rehabilitation;

(b) whether it is a fact that there is a shortfall in the paddy sowing in the country due to the scanty rainfall and drought situation; and

(c) if so, the details thereof and expected shortfall in the paddy production thereby;
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

(SHRI K.V. THOMAS)

(a): 12 States, namely, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Nagaland, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh have declared 300 districts as affected by drought/scarcity/drought-like situation. State-wise details are indicated below:

Andhra Pradesh (Drought) 22 districts
Assam (Drought-like situation) 27 districts
Bihar (Drought) 26 districts
Himachal Pradesh (Drought) 12 districts
Jharkhand (Drought) 24 districts
Karnataka (Drought) 20 districts
Madhya Pradesh (Drought) 37 districts
Maharashtra (Drought) 28 districts
Manipur (Drought) 9 districts
Nagaland (Drought-like situation) 11 districts
Rajasthan (Scarcity) 26 districts
Uttar Pradesh (Drought) 58 districts

The details of assistance extended by the Centre to States affected by drought is at Annexure-I.

(b) & (c): Yes, Sir. The coverage of paddy under Kharif Paddy, 2009 remained short by about 6
million ha. than the normal. The harvesting in paddy crop is not yet completed in all the paddy growing
States. Reduction in paddy crops would be known once the harvesting is over.

46. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that about 3,00,000 Tamil civilians are still languishing in camps even after four months of defeat of Tamil rebels in Sri Lanka; and

(b) if so, the details and the measures that are being taken by the Union Government to take up the matter with Sri Lankan Government to ensure the earliest rehabilitation of these Tamil refugees in Sri Lanka?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SMT. PRENEET KAUR)

(a) & (b) Nearly 2.88 lakh Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) were living in camps in Northern Sri Lanka. At our request, the Government of Sri Lanka agreed to resettle the bulk of these IDPs to their original places of habitation in 180 days. Government of Sri Lanka have stated that they have resettled about 1.10 lakh IDPs so far. Around 1.7 lakh IDPs are reportedly still in the camps.
Government of India attaches high priority to the welfare and rehabilitation of the IDPs. It has taken several steps to provide for their welfare and assist in the rehabilitation. 2.5 lakh family packs were sent to the IDPs as part of the relief and humanitarian assistance. A 60-member emergency field hospital operated in Sri Lanka for six months till September 2009 and treated more than 50,000 patients. India has sent four demining teams. India has also sent 2600 tons of shelter material for resettling the IDPs. We are extending assistance to revive agriculture in Northern Sri Lanka. About 20,000 agricultural starter packs have been donated by India for IDP families resettling in the North.