Questions asked by Mr. Mohd. Ali Khan during Rajya Sabha session November – December 2009

No. of questions found: 59

3488. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether the Prime Minister has constituted any committee for the welfare of Muslim minorities after the Sachar Committee submitted its recommendations;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) if not, by when such committee would be formed to benefit Muslims in the country especially in Andhra Pradesh?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS

(SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a) : No, Sir. However, the Government has taken various decisions on the recommendations of Sachar Committee and follow up action on these decisions are monitored periodically. Besides, the Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme for the Welfare of Minorities was announced in June, 2006. An important aim of the new programme is to ensure that the benefits of various government schemes for the underprivileged reach the disadvantaged sections of the minority communities, and it includes the Muslims. In order to ensure that the benefits of these schemes flow equitably to the minorities, the new programme envisages location of a certain proportion of development projects in minority concentration areas. It also provides that, wherever possible, 15% of targets and outlays under various schemes should be earmarked for minorities.

(b) & (c): Do not arise.

3460. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is funding the expansion of AIR and DD; and

(b) if so, the details thereof for the remaining period of current Five Year Plan?
Answer
THE MINSTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING

(Dr. S. JAGATHRAKSHAKAN)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) For the remaining period of 11th Five Year Plan i.e.2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 there is an allocation of Rs.1084.92 crore for expansion of AIR and Rs.1381.17 for expansion of Doordarshan.

3452. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING be pleased to state:-

(a) whether some requests for setting up of FM Radios in Andhra Pradesh are pending;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and

(c) the steps being taken to complete them?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING (DR. S. JAGATHRAKSHAKAN)

(a) to (c) The request regarding setting up of All India Radio (AIR) FM Radio Station at Kakinada is pending.
The Scheme for setting up of AIR FM Radio Station at Kakinada was approved under the 10th Five Year Plan. However, due to curtailment of overall Plan funds, this scheme was not included in the 11th Five Year Plan proposal by Prasar Bharati.

3338. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Prime Minister has focused on the difficulty in finding top level professors and lecturers in the newly created IITs;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the reasons therefor?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) to (c): The Ministry of Human Resource Development is the nodal agency for Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), The IITs are autonomous institutions and recruitment of faculty is done by them as per their respective Statutes / Memoranda and not by the Government. Each new IIT has been sanctioned 30 faculty posts every year for the first three years of its existence. The mentoring IITs are also sending their faculty to the new Institutes. Meanwhile, various initiatives are being taken by the new IITs to attract quality faculty which include recruitment from abroad, providing good residential accommoda-tions, medical facilities, initial research grants, financial support for participation in national / inter-national conferences, suitable schemes for sharing of consultancy charges, etc.

3306. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether it is a fact that tumbling domestic sugar prices in the country have heightened speculation that importers are backing out of some deals;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the exact reasons for such high sugar prices in the country compared to the last three years?
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): No, Sir. No such report has been received.

(b): Does not arise.

(c): Shortfall in production and productivity of sugarcane owing to adverse weather conditions has resulted in low production of sugar in the last sugar season 2008-09 and is also likely to impact production of sugar during the current sugar season 2009-10. This has led to mismatch between demand and availability of sugar leading to escalation in sugar prices. International prices have also firmed up during 2008-09 sugar season due to drop in global production which have made imports dear.

3287. SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH
MOHD. ALI KHAN
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Central Government is aware of the fact that due to non-release of entire quantity of levy sugar by some sugar factories, Andhra Pradesh has been facing shortage of 13,998.30 metric tonnes of sugar from March, 2009 to September, 2009;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the response of Central Government to the request of the State for re-allotting the undelivered quantity of 13998.30 metric tonnes of sugar to other sugar factories; and

(d) by when the requested allotment is likely to be made?
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 monthly levy sugar quota of Andhra Pradesh is 9690.0 MTs. The allocation of monthly levy sugar quota has been made to Andhra Pradesh in full during the period from March, 2009 to September, 2009. However, the State Government has informed that some sugar mills have not delivered allotted levy sugar quantity to the tune of 13998.30 MTs during the said period.

(c)&(d): The Central Government has taken appropriate action on case to case basis by re-allotting the shortfall of levy sugar in some cases and directing the defaulting sugar mills to deliver levy sugar against allocation orders.

3224. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has set any target to provide water to another 16 million hectares in the 2007-12, Eleventh Five Year Plan;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and.

(c) the present status and progress achieved in the matter so far in Andhra Pradesh?
Answer

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES

(SHRI VINCENT H. PALA)

(a) & (b) The Eleventh Five Year Plan Document (2007- 12), envisages creation of irrigation potential of 16 million hectare (mha) during the XI Plan which inter-alia include creation of 9 mha through major and medium irrigation projects, 1.5 mha through surface water minor irrigation schemes, 4.5 mha through ground water minor irrigation and 1.0 mha through repair renovation and restoration of water bodies.

(c) Creation of total irrigation potential of 0.50 mha has been reported by the Government of Andhra Pradesh during first two year of the XI Plan during 2007-08 and 2008-09.

3193. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of TOURISM be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Government of Andhra Pradesh has approached her Ministry for the tourism projects to be taken up in the Eleventh Five Year Plan for Secunderabad and Hyderabad twin cities which possess rich heritage and culture which has already completed 400 years;

(b) if so, the details thereof and action taken so far; and

(c) if not, by when action would be taken on such important issues in Andhra Pradesh to promote the tourism to generate more revenue in the southern region?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF TOURISM

(KUMARI SELJA)

(a) to (c): Development and promotion of tourism is primarily undertaken by the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations themselves. However, Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance for tourism projects, identified in consultation and interaction with them, subject to availability of funds and inter-se- priority under various schemes of the Ministry.
Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned projects worth Rs.15675.91 lakh during the 11th Plan for the integrated development of tourism in the State of Andhra Pradesh which also includes a project for Development of Charminar Area of Hyderabad sanctioned in year 2007-08 for Rs.994.75 lakh.

410. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has made any cut in the grant-in-aid for the disabled and old age home schemes;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State wise, especially in Andhra Pradesh;

(c) the details for the current year compared to the last three years, year-wise and State-wise; and

(d) the steps being taken to grant full aid to each scheme under the Ministry, especially for the minority Muslims, SC/ST projects in the Eleventh Five Year Plan?
Answer
MINISTER OF SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT

(MUKUL WASNIK)

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

Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (d) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 410 for 17.12.2009 by Shri Mohd. Ali Khan regarding “Grant-in-aid for disabled and old age home schemes”

(a) to (c): The grant-in-aid provided to Non-governmental Organizations under various schemes including for disability and older persons was demand driven till 2006-07 and no State-wise allocations were fixed for this purpose. From 2007-08 onwards, indicative notional allocations are being fixed State-wise under the Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme and the Scheme of Integrated Programme for Older Persons, among others, to ensure equitable allocation of funds to NGOs located in various States/UTs, so that services to these groups are provided in as many States, as possible. Statements indicating grant-in-aid released under the two schemes in the last three years and in the current year up to 14.12.2009 are enclosed as Annexures I & II.

(d): The Ministry projects its financial requirements at the time of preparation of Annual Plan. Scheme-wise allocations in any year depend on the total Annual Plan allocation of the Ministry, and the requirements of various schemes.

3079. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has any proposal for the upgradation of handloom and textile units especially in Andhra Pradesh rural areas; and

(b) if so, the details thereof during the Eleventh Five Year Plan?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)

(a): The Government of India is implementing Integrated Handlooms Development Scheme (IHDS) during the XI Plan period in which there is a component which includes Assistance for Basic inputs like purchase of new loom, dobby, jacquard and accessories for upgradation of Handlooms in all over the country including Andhra Pradesh State. Further, in order to boost modernization/ technology upgradation of textile mills, the Government of India has launched Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) for Textile and Jute Indusrtry w.e.f 1.4.1999 which has been extended during the Eleventh Five Year Plan.

(b): During the Eleventh Five Year Plan, i.e. 2007-08 to 2009-10 (Upto 30.11.2009), 37 handloom clusters and 127 Group Approach Projects have been sanctioned and a sum of Rs.5.65 crores under Handloom Cluster and Rs.3.45 crore under Group Approach Projects have been released to the Government of Andhra Pradesh.
Under the TUFS, 407 applications have been sanctioned and Rs.3570.19 crore have been disbursed against the 406 applications from 1.4.1999 to 30.06.2009 (P). Under the 20% Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme/Margin Money Subsidy Scheme (CLCS/MMS) under TUFS, 22 units were given financial assistance of Rs. 133.51 crore.

3078. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of the spinning mills, State-wise especially in Andhra Pradesh;

(b) the financial position of such mills, State-wise; and

(c) the mills which are in losses in the rural areas of Andhra Pradesh?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)

(a): The details of State-wise number of cotton man-made fibre spinning mills (Non-SSI and SSI) including Andhra Pradesh are at Annexure I.

(b) & (c): Government does not have information on the financial position of such mills nor is aware of the losses in the rural areas of Andhra Pradesh.

Annexure -I

(Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3078)
Details of State-wise number of cotton man-made fibre spinning mills (Non-SSI + SSI) as on 30.09.2009 in the country including Andhra Pradesh

Sr.No. State No. of Mills Installed Capacity Workers

Spindles Rotors Knitting Machines

1 Andhra Pradesh 142 2736025 17094 1 39400

2 Assam 5 89112 0 0 2246

3 Bihar 5 114428 0 0 2064

4 Chhattisgarh 1 25024 0 0 1225

5 Dadra Nagar Haveli 8 274984 13160 0 1946

6 Daman & Diu 2 7874 0 0 218

7 Delhi 2 2000 0 0 62

8 Goa 1 14616 0 0 72

9 Gujarat 62 1025601 22620 0 19023

10 Haryana 139 296927 113432 0 13242

11 Himachal Pradesh 20 671048 8992 0 14180

12 Jammu & Kashmir 2 146072 0 0 6607

13 Jharkhand 1 30744 0 0 707

14 Karnataka 53 860330 8312 0 21192

15 Kerala 35 736560 2776 0 11246

16 Madhya Pradesh 51 980350 17332 1 22805

17 Maharashtra 147 2812407 35092 0 73323

18 Manipur 1 16416 0 0 350

19 Orissa 17 293833 4104 0 12151

20 Pondicherry 13 156096 2888 0 2659

21 Punjab 119 2103990 55208 1 48058

22 Rajasthan 56 1149167 23556 0 45891

23 Tamil Nadu 1898 19024357 242635 19 240687

24 Uttar Pradesh 94 1313803 14489 0 39775

25 Uttaranchal 11 203584 4448 0 2941

26 West Bengal 21 525020 2400 0 13649

Total 2906 35610368 588538 22 635719

400. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government is upgrading the coastal security scheme;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;

(c) the funds allocated so far and spent in Andhra Pradesh; and

(d) the demands of each State in this regard?
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.400 FOR 16.12.2009 REGARDING “FUNDS TO AP FOR COASTAL SECURITY”

(a): Yes, Sir.

(b) to (d): Government has consistently accorded highest priority to coastal security and an integrated Coastal Security Scheme with an outlay of Rs.400 crore for non-recurring expenses and Rs. 151 crore for recurring expenses is presently under implementation. Under this Scheme, assistance is being provided to nine coastal States, viz. Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa and West Bengal, and four coastal Union Territories, viz. Daman & Diu, Lakshadweep, Puducherry and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, to set up 73 coastal police stations, 97 check posts, 58 outposts and 30 operational barracks as also for 204 patrol boats, 153 jeeps and 312 motorcycles for patrolling along and off the coastal belt. In addition, and in the context of 26/11, the Government is taking steps to further strengthen coastal security and, to this end, coastal State and Union Territories have carried out vulnerability/gap analysis jointly with Coast Guard to firm up their additional requirements. Action is underway to finalise the components of Phase-II of the Coastal Security Scheme into a uniform format applicable to the needs of all the coastal States/Union Territories.
Total amount of Rs.3267.00 lakh was approved for Andhra Pradesh under the Coastal Security Scheme for setting up 6 coastal police stations, equipped with 12 jeeps, 18 motorcycles, 12 boats of 12 Tonnes and 6 boats of 5 Tonnes, as well as lump-sum assistance at the rate of Rs.10 lakh per coastal police station.

Out of the approved outlay of Rs.3267.00 lakh for Andhra Pradesh, the amount of Rs.267.00 lakh pertaining to the approved coastal police stations, vehicles and lump-sum assistance for the coastal police stations, has been released in full to the State. The remaining amount pertains to the cost of interceptor boats which are being procured centrally.
Andhra Pradesh has operationalised and constructed all six approved coastal police stations. Further, out of the 12 boats of 12 Ton and 6 boats of 5 Ton approved for Andhra Pradesh under the Scheme, a total of 7 boats (3 boats of 12 Ton and 4 boats of 5 Ton) have been delivered to the State.

2774. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION be pleased to state:-

(a) what are details of the foreign equity in the national carrier; and

(b) the guidelines prepared in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION

( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )

(a): There is no foreign equity in the national carrier.

(b): Does not arise.

2720. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is preparing any plan to attract investment from abroad by giving incentives in the Eleventh Five Year Plan; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and the present status in this regard?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY

(DR. FAROOQ ABDULLAH)

(a)&(b): The Government has put in place a conducive policy regime to attract foreign investment in renewable energy sector. 100% Foreign Direct Investment is allowed in Renewable Energy sector and structures have been put in place to facilitate power trading, open access etc. The Government has also approved a Generation Based Incentive scheme for wind power projects for investors, specially foreign, who cannot avail of the benefit of accelerated depreciation available to domestic investors. Jawahar Lal Nehru National Solar Mission has also been approved recently which is also expected to provide ample opportunities to foreign companies to set up advanced manufacturing facilities in solar energy sector as well as to investors for large-scale capital investment in solar power generation.

2717. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government has made allocations for the new schemes of National Fellowship for students from the Minority community;

(b) if so, the details thereof especially Andhra Pradesh during the last five years, State-wise and year-wise;

(c) the amount spent, so far, State-wise and year-wise;

(d) the pending requests from Andhra Pradesh, so far, and

(e) by when clearances would be give to each proposal?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE), MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS

(SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a) The proposed scheme of National Fellowship for students belonging to minority communities is under consideration.

(b) to (e) Do not arise in view of (a) above.

2716. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government has released funds for the pre-matric scholarship for minorities;

(b) if so, the details thereof during the last five years especially in Andhra Pradesh year-wise, State-wise and gender wise;

(c) whether Government has any proposal to increase the amount of scholarship; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE), MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS

(SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) The scheme was launched from the year 2008-09. Details of funds released since 2008-09 and during the current financial year (upto November 2009) state-wise and gender-wise, including the State of Andhra Pradesh, are available on the website of Ministry of Minority Affairs- -www.minorityaffairs.gov.in.

(c) No, Sir.

(d) Does not arise in view of (c) above.

2546. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether his Ministry is unwilling to let minority schools off the hook when it comes to setting aside 25 per cent of seats for disadvantaged children; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) & (b) The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 provides for the following responsibilities of schools:

(i) schools which are established, owned or controlled by the appropriate Government, or a local authority shall provide free and compulsory elementary education to all children admitted therein.

(ii) schools receiving aid or grants to meet whole or part of its expenses from the appropriate Government or local authority shall provide free and compulsory elementary education to such proportion of children admitted therein as its annual recurring aid or grants so received bears to its annual recurring expenses, subject to a minimum of 25%.

(iii) schools belonging to ‘specified category’ as defined in section 2 (p) of the Act, and unaided school shall admit in class I to the extent of at least 25% of the strength of that class, children belonging to weaker section and disadvantaged group in the neighbourhood and provide free and compulsory elementary education till its completion.

2545. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether IGNOU is launching a science channel to educate and create awareness among the students;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps being taken particularly for rural students?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) to (c): As per the information provided by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), the University has started the Test Transmission of Science Channel on 23.12.2008 on Gyan Darshan (GD-2). The transmission includes programmes producued by IGNOU and also Department of Science & Technology (DST). The channel aims to share knowledge and develop a scientific temper in the public and improve the teaching and reseach of the sciences. The programmes cater to the needs of viewers of both metro and non-metro regions. Initially, the programmes are in English and Hindi. This channel is also available on Direct to Home (DTH) platform of Door Darshan (DD) Direct Plus and Dish TV.

2454. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has any proposal to develop sports villages especially in rural areas;

(b) if so, the complete details thereof; and

(c) if not, by when such a proposal will come into effect in Andhra Pradesh ?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF YOUTH AFFAIRS & SPORTS

(SHRI PRATIK PRAKASHBAPU PATIL)

(a) to (c) Government of India introduced a centrally sponsored scheme entitled `Panchayat Yuva Krida Khel Abhyan’, in 2008-09, for creation of basic sports infrastructure in all village and block panchayats and for conducting sports competitions at blocks, districts, states and national level of the country. The XIth Five Year Plan outlay for this scheme is Rs.1500 crore. The scheme envisage to cover around 2.50 lakh village panchayats and 6,400 block panchayats (including their equivalent units) in a phased manner over a period of 10 years at an annual coverage of 10% ( and the coverage will be 20% in the case of special category states including North Eastern States). The scheme is implemented through the state governments/ UTs. administrations. An amount of Rs. 25.98 crore was ,so far, sanctioned/released to Government of Andhra Pradesh during 2008-09 and 2009-10 for creating basic sports infrastructure in 2190 village panchayats and 113 block panchayats there. Further, for conducting competitions in 296 blocks and 22 districts and for state level competition during 2009-10, admissible grant to the State is Rs.3.55 crore against which Rs.0.95 crore has already been released.

2358. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether the Prime Minister attended Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting CHOGM-2009, recently;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the outcome thereof?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SHRI S. M. KRISHNA)

(a) & (b) Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh led India`s Delegation to the CHOGM 2009 in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (27-29 November 2009). The Summit theme: “Partnering for a more Equitable and Sustainable Future”, as well as, global developments, including, Climate Change and issues concerning Youth were discussed. On the sidelines, Hon`ble Prime Minister held bilateral meetings with the President of France, Prime Ministers of the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, Denmark, Sri Lanka and Mauritius.

(c) At the end of the Summit, the following declarations and statements were issued (available at www.thecommonwealth.org):
i. CHOGM Communiqué ii. Trinidad & Tobago Affirmation on Commonwealth Values and Principles. iii. Port of Spain Climate Change Consensus: The Commonwealth Climate Change Declaration. iv. The Declaration of Port of Spain: Partnering for a More Equitable and Sustainable Future. v. Statement on Commonwealth Action to Combat Non-Communicable Diseases. vi. ‘Investing in young people’: A Declaration on young people by Commonwealth Heads of Government.

2345. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN
T. RATNA BAI
Will the Minister of EARTH SCIENCES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether his Ministry has any proposal to set up a prestigious tsunami research centre in Gajulararamaram in Ranga Reddy district of Andhra Pradesh;

(b) if so, the details thereof and present position thereof;

(c) the funds allocated and spent so far for this project; and

(d) if not, by when such proposal will be implemented?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, MINISTRY OF EARTH SCIENCES, MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE, MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)

(a) Yes Sir. The Government has already established a state of the art National Tsunami Warning Centre (NTWC) at the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), at Gajularamaram, Ranga Reddy District, Andhra Pradesh.

(b) The NTWC at INCOIS has been operational since 15th Oct., 2007 with the state-of-the-art facilities. All the necessary computational and communication infrastructure – that enables reception of real-time data from all the sensors, analysis of the data, generation and dissemination of tsunami advisories following a standard operating procedure – have been put in place. It operates on 24X7 basis and monitors the seismic activity in known tsunamigenic source regions of Indian Ocean as well as the real time water level observations from Bottom Pressure Recorders (BPR) and Tide Gauges for detecting the significant changes in water levels. The centre is equipped for reception of real time seismic and water level changes data from various national and international stations.

Whenever an earthquake of magnitude >6.5 on Richter scale occurs in the Indian Ocean, the centre issues the earthquake information within 10-15 minutes indicating the Tsunamigenic potential qualitatively, and issues tsunami bulletins (Warning/Alert/Watch/All Clear) within 30 minutes to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) based on the proximity of the region to the earth quake location. These messages are followed up by an upgrade message or a cancellation message based on the water level information from BPR’s and Tide Gauges with the timelines depending on the availability time of water level observations. The advisory messages from warning center are disseminated as per the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) by means of various communication modes such as dedicated telephone lines, fax, Virtual Private Network- Disaster Management Support (VPN-DMS) etc.

(c) Total funds allocated for the Centre is Rs. 88.55 crores out of which Rs. 61.18 crores have been spent so far.

(d) Does not arise.

2306. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has any details of the financial status of powerloom Centres;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and

(c) the incentives announced during the Eleventh Five Year Plan for Andhra Pradesh workers?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)

(a): No, Sir.

(b): Does not arise in view of (a) above.

(c): The following schemes for the decentralised Powerloom Sector are uniformly applicable to all States including Andhra Pradesh:

(i) Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) to provide 5% interest reimbursement, 15% & 20% Margin Money Subsidy (MMS) on investment in machines in textile units. The 5% interest reimbursement is provided to all textile units including powerloom units. 15% Margin Money Subsidy is provided to all SSI Textile units including powerloom units. 20% Margin Money Subsidy is provided to SSI powerloom units.

(ii) Group Insurance Scheme for welfare of powerloom weavers under which the total premium is Rs.330/-, out of which Rs.150/- to be borne by the Government of India, Rs.100/- to be paid by the LIC from the Social Security Fund of Government of India and only a premium of Rs.80/- to be paid by the powerloom weaver for getting the following coverage benefits under the said scheme:

Natural death AccidentalDeath Total Permanent Disability Partial Permanent Disability

Rs. 60,000/- Rs. 1,50,000/- Rs. 1,50,000/- Rs. 75,000/-

(iii) Integrated Scheme for Powerloom Cluster Development which includes exposure visit for powerloom weavers, Buyer Seller meet for market development, HRD etc.

(iv) Modified Group Workshed Scheme under which subsidy for construction of Workshed to be limited to 40% of the unit cost of construction subject to a maximum of Rs. 120/- per sq. ft., whichever is less, subject to the further conditions that ordinarily, minimum 4 weavers should form a group each with 12 modern looms or 6 wider width looms per person and the maximum subsidy to be Rs.12 lakh per person. The scheme does not envisage more than 500 looms under one project proposal.

2305. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is encouraging the workers to manufacture jute and other bags;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the incentives announced for the Eleventh Five Year Plan?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)

(a) & (c): The Government has launched “Jute Technology Mission (JTM)” with effect from 2007-08, spanning a period of 5 years (11th five Year Plan Period), for overall development of the Jute Industry in the country and promotion of jute and jute products at home and abroad.

Mini Mission IV of JTM has 4 Scheme Components in place for modernization of organized jute mills and 5 Scheme components for promotion of jute diversified products, with a total outlay of Rs.242 crores for the total Mission period (5 years).

The Scheme “Training of Workers & Supervisors” provides for training of workers in Jute Mills. The trained Jute Mill personnel stand engaged in production of different jute products, including jute bags.

The Scheme “Helping the NGOs and Women Self Help Groups (WSHGs) for developing jute diversified products’, assists NGOs, Women Self Help Groups (WSHGs) in their efforts for production of jute diversified products, including jute bags, under Cluster Development Programmes. The Scheme for Promotion of Jute Diversification also provides support to the workers in the form of trainings, skill up-gradation, design & product development and market exposure through exhibitions & fairs.

2292. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has prepared any new policy on export promotion council for Handicrafts and other products;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the present status of Andhra Pradesh in this regard?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)

(a) & (b): Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Department of Commerce, DGFT has informed that in the new Foreign Trade Policy 2009-14 announced on 27.8.2009 under Focus Product Scheme (FPS), all handicrafts products have been categorised as Special Focus Product and are, accordingly, entitled to a benefit of duty credit scrip @ 5% of FOB value of exports, as against the normal rate of 2% for Focus Products. Handmade carpets and other textile floor covering have also been categorized as Special Focus Products and thus, are entitled to a benefit of duty credit scrip @5% of FOB value of exports.

(c): The above benefits are available on all handicraft products and handmade carpets and other textiles floor covering exported from the country including the State of Andhra Pradesh.

289. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of the financial status of Cotton Corporation of India; and

(b) the financial allocations made and spent by the Corporation, State-wise, especially in Andhra Pradesh, which are running in losses?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF TEXTILES

(SHRI DAYANIDHI MARAN)

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

STATEMENT REFFERED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) AND (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO 289 TO BE ANSWERED ON 09.12.2009 ASKED BY SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN REGARDING FINANCIAL STATUS OF COTTON CORPORATION OF INDIA

(a): The Cotton Corporation of India Ltd. (CCI) is wholly owned undertaking of the Govt. of India. The Authorized Share capital is Rs.75.00 crores and Paid up Share capital is Rs.25.00 crores. The Corporation is profit making and dividend paying undertaking of Govt. of India. The Profit after tax and Dividend paid (excluding dividend tax) during last 5 years are as under:-

Sr.No. Financial Year Profit After Tax (Rs. in Crores) Dividend paid (Rs. in Crores)

1 2004-2005 27.04 5.41

2 2005-2006 14.55 5.00

3 2006-2007 15.51 5.00

4 2007-2008 22.55 5.00

5 2008-2009 66.78 13.41

(b): Cotton Corporation of India is one of the nominated agencies by the Government for undertaking Minimum Support Price operations. The Corporation has no specific financial allocation State-wise. However, the losses suffered by the Cotton Corporation of India for having undertaken Minimum Support Price (MSP) operations are reimbursed by Government of India.
The State wise loss under MSP operations are as follows:-
(Rs. in Crore)

SR.NO. STATE 2006-2007 2008-2009

1 GUJARAT -5.49 190.43

2 ANDRA PRADESH 55.91 609.83

3 MAHARASTRA 19.86 298.91

4 PUNJAB -1.43 150.69

5 RAJASTHAN 2.79 22.68

6 KARNATAKA 2.80 33.65

7 ORISSA 1.47 8.83

8 MADHYA PRADESH 2.20 154.64

9 HARYANA 0.02 28.06

10 TAMIL NADU 0.00 0.00

11 WEST BENGAL -0.68 0.83

TOTAL 77.47 1498.58
Profit Note: In the year 2007-2008 there was no MSP Loss

2118. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of the allocation of Blocks for exploration of petro- products which took place during the last three years; and

(b) the details of new exploration oil fields found during the last three years?
Answer
MINISTER OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS

(SHRI MURALI DEORA)

(a) During the last three years (2006-09), a total of 93 Production Sharing Contract (PSCs) have been signed under sixth and seventh bid rounds of New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP). The details are as under:-

NELP-VI
NELP-VII
TOTAL
Deepwater
21
11
32
Shallow water
6
7
13
Onland
25
23
48
Grand Total
52
41
93

(b) During the period 2006-07 to 2008-09, a total of 20 oil and 33 gas discoveries have been made under the Production Sharing Contract(PSC) regime.

2047. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the common people in the country are preferring to carry cash during journey;

(b) if so, the details thereof compared to credit card;

(c) the steps being taken to increase the minimum withdrawal from the ATM to atleast Rs.50,000 per day to carry cash;

(d) the demands received in this regard; and

(e) the comments of Government thereon?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE

( SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA )

(a) & (b) :- The data base maintained by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) does not generate information as requested.

(c) to (e) :- Presently ATM has been designed to withdraw 40 notes at a time, therefore, maximum withdrawal allowed per single transactions is Rs.40,000/- only. Further, RBI and Indian Bank`s Association have reported that they have not received any demands to increase minimum withdrawal from ATM to atleast Rs.50,000/- per day.

1939. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government has constituted any committee to give suggestion for welfare of socially and economically backward classes among religious and linguistic minorities; and

(b) if so, the details thereof especially for minorities of Andhra Pradesh?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS

(SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a) and (b) : The Government constituted the National Commission for Religious and Linguistic Minorities (NCRLM), to suggest the criteria for identification of socially and economically backward sections among religious and linguistic minorities and to recommend measures for their welfare, including reservation, in education and government employment. The NCRLM report submitted in May, 2007, covers the entire country, including minorities in Andhra Pradesh.

1938. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government Is reviewing the working conditions of wakf boards;

(b) if so, the details thereof during the last three years; and

(c) the actual demands of each State especially in Andhra Pradesh in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS

(SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a): No, Sir. However, Central Wakf Council, has been established for the purpose of advising the Central Government on matters concerning the working of Wakf Boards and the due administration of Wakfs.

(b) & (c): Do not arise.

245. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING be pleased to state:-

(a) whether there have been losses to the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC);

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(c) the amount to be collected from the advertisement agents; and

(d) the steps being taken to strengthen NFDC in each State?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING

(SMT. AMBIKA SONI)

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

STATEMENT AS REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.245 FOR ANSWER ON 7.12.2009 REGARDING LOSSES TO NFDC

(a) & (b) Yes, Sir. The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) has accumulated losses of Rs. 27.62 crores as on 31.03.2009. These losses are mainly due to decline in gross profit margins, loss of business of marketing of Free Commercial Time (FCT) of Doordarshan, loss of royalty due to discontinuation of business of acquisition of films by DD through NFDC, a part of revenue of TV marketing being under litigation, expenditure on VRS for reduction of manpower and high personnel and administrative expenditure over the years not in consonance with the business activities and income of NFDC.

(c ) NFDC has aggregate outstanding dues of Rs.36,75,17,102.44 to be collected from the advertisement agents as on 31.03.2009.

(d) NFDC, with its headquarters in Mumbai, has three regional offices, one each in Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai catering to the needs of the film industry in their respective regions. It also has one branch office in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. Govt. has provided funds under the XI Plan Scheme to NFDC to produce films in various regional languages. Further, in an effort to strengthen the business of NFDC in various states, a request has been made by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to the Chief Ministers of various states for giving the production work of documentaries and video spots of their states to the National Film Development Corporation. Govt. has initiated a major restructuring proposal for NFDC in order to strengthen the organization.

1745. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government is implementing the Abhijit Sen Committee Report fully;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the results yielded so far; and

(e) if not, by when the report will be implemented?
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) & (b): Abhijit Sen Committee’s recommendations are taken into consideration, while devising various policies with regard to the Commodity Futures Market. An amendment to the Forward Contracts (Regulation) Act 1952 (FCR Act) to strengthen the regulatory capabilities of Forward Markets Commission (FMC) and enabling developments in the commodities futures market is under the consideration of the Government.

(c) : Some of the important recommendations of the Abhijit Sen Committee Report include upgrading the capabilities of the FMC and quality of regulation by expeditious amendment of the FCR Act 1952,,increasing the participation of hedgers, i.e. the physical market stakeholders in the Futures Market, reforming and improving the spot market, removing the legal and regulatory hurdles in setting up and functioning of national spot exchanges which can facilitate best spot price discovery and a ready market for farmers to sell their produce, restructuring of contract designs and other requirements of futures trading so as to enable farmers’ participation in the futures market, strengthening support infrastructure of warehouse and commodity finance and operationalisation of the WD & R Act in order to reach out to the farmers and strengthening the efforts of FMC and commodities exchanges for dissemination of futures prices through various channels to improve the farmers bargaining power while marketing the produce.

The Government is making all efforts to amend the FC (R) Act. The amendment of the FC (R) Act would facilitate strengthening of the capabilities of FMC to effectively regulate the market, enable participation of institutional players such as banks and financial institutions in the commodity futures market, thereby bringing adequate depth to the market to enhance participation of hedgers in the market, and introduction of new derivative products such as options that would encourage participation of farmers in the commodity futures markets. The Forward markets Commission and the Exchanges review contract designs of agricultural commodities from time to time with a view to making it suitable for participation by agri- market stakeholders.

The futures market, currently in its 6th year of operation after the liberalization of the commodity futures market, have served as a catalyst of change for spot markets and have contributed though in a small measure, to the development of rural agri infrastructure including warehousing, grading and quality certification facilities. . The two national spot exchanges set up by the National Commodity Exchanges have attempted to create an integrated national spot market to discover the best spot prices which the farmer can get. The passage of the Warehousing Development and Regulation (Act) 2007 will go a long way in the expansion of warehousing facilities in the country and the development of transferable warehouse receipt system and WDR financing by banks.

The Forward Markets commission has commenced the implementation of a nationwide Price Dissemination Scheme that would make available spot and futures prices of agricultural commodities to all links in the agriculture supply chain, especially farmers.

(d) : Many of the recommendations of the Committee have been implemented. Efforts are being made to amend Forward Contract (Regulation) Act, 1952 to empower the Regulator to regulate and develop the market effectively.

1707. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether corn prices are rising;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the details of corn exported to each country during the last three years; and

(d) the role of Andhra Pradesh farmers producing corn in this regard?
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): Monthly Wholesale Price Index (WPI) (Base Year 1993-94 = 100) for Corn showed a mixed trend during the period 2007 to 2009 (November 2009). However from December 2008, the WPI for Corn increased continuously up to September, 2009 and thereafter started declining. The statement showing trends in the Monthly WPI of Corn over the last three years is given below:
Monthly WPI for Maize/Corn from 2007
Months 2007 2008 2009
January 240.2 234.3 264.5
February 244.8 237.2 268.4
March 249.3 244.5 269.4
April 248.8 246.0 277.7
May 244.0 246.4 282.2
June 242.6 254.6 287.3
July 240.7 252.5 290.7
August 236.0 252.6 299.9
September 228.8 249.8 300.9
October 228.3 254.4 295.9
November 225.0 258.9 295.2
December 223.4 254.4 –

(c): The details of Corn exported to each country from 2006-07 to 2008-09 is enclosed at Annexure.

(d): State-wise data on exports are not available

1676. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is giving any training to the participants in the Commonwealth Games;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the amount spent, so far; and

(c) the present status thereof and the funds allocated for Commonwealth Games purpose?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY YOUTH AFFAIRS & SPORTS

(SHRI PRATIK PRAKASHBAPU PATIL)

(a) to (c ): Yes, Sir. To improve the performance of the Indian contingent in the Commonwealth Games, 2010, a Scheme with allocation of Rs.678.00 crore (2008-09 to 2010-11) is being implemented for providing training to the elite sportspersons in all the disciplines of the Commonwealth Games, 2010. These disciplines will be Archery, Athletics, Aquatics, Badminton, Boxing(M), Cycling, Gymnastics, Hockey, Lawn Bowls, Netball (W), Rugby 7s(M) Shooting, Squash, Table Tennis, Tennis, Weightlifting, Wrestling, Elite Athletes with Disability (Athletics, Power lifting, Table Tennis and Swimming). Against allocation of Rs.678.00 crore, expenditure of Rs.232.56 crores has been incurred so far (as on 30.11.2009).

1647. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether there is any new deal for urban transport;

(b) if so, the details worked out so far for each State especially in Andhra Pradesh;

(c) the funds released/ to be released so far for this purpose; and

(d) whether Government has failed in providing urban transport in each State especially in Andhra Pradesh despite spending lakhs of rupees in each State?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI SAUGATA ROY)

(a): No Sir.

(b) to (d): Do not arise in view of (a) above.

1638. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether the Government is working on the National Urban Transport Policy with the emphasis on integrating transport modes in the million-plus cities;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the aims and objectives of such policy worked out so far; and

(d) the funds earmarked for the States especially in Andhra Pradesh?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI SAUGATA ROY)

(a) to (c): The Government has formulated a National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) in April, 2006 which envisages safe, affordable, quick, comfortable, reliable and sustainable urban transport systems, establishment of quality focused multi-modal public transport systems that are well integrated, providing seamless travel across modes, land use transport integration, introducing intelligent transport systems for traffic management etc.

(d): No funds are earmarked under the National Urban Transport Policy.

207. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government has taken up the hostage issue with Government of Singapore recently;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps being taken with the Government of Singapore on the issue of safety particularly of the women and the children among the Indians living there?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) A Singapore registered vessel ‘Kota Wajar’ was hijacked by Somali pirates in the Gulf of Aden on 15 October 2009. Two Indians are on board the ship. The issue of their safe and early release was immediately taken up by our High Commission in Singapore with the Government of Singapore and ship owning company. The Government of Singapore has informed that negotiations are still going on between the owner of the vessel and the hijackers. All crew members are reported to be safe. The Government of Singapore has assured us that they are continuing to monitor this incident closely and are working with the owner of the vessel to ensure the safe release of the crew members.

(c) There is a large community of persons of Indian origin, (predominantly Tamils) in Singapore who are well integrated into the local system. As citizens of Singapore, their rights are derived from the Singaporean constitution.

1404. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of the indigenous production of defence during the last five years;

(b) the year-wise details of the foreign defence technology undertaken during the last five years; and

(c) the steps being taken to get the defence production in the current five year plan indigenously?
Answer
(SHRI M.M. PALLAM RAJU)

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

(a) to (c): Information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House.

197. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the World Bank has sanctioned crores of rupees as loan for the road projects in Andhra Pradesh;

(b) if so, the road projects undertaken so far in Andhra Pradesh during the last five years;

(c) the amount spent so far on each road project;

(d) the criteria adopted to use such loan; and

(e) by when all the roads will be completed ?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI KAMAL NATH)

(a) to (e) This Ministry is primarily responsible for development and maintenance of National Highways and roads other than National highways are the responsibility of the State Governments. No National Highway works have been undertaken with funding from World Bank in the State of Andhra Pradesh. However, some World Bank loan has been arranged for state sector road project in Andhra Pradesh the details of which are as Annexed.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 197 TO BE ANSWERED ON 2ND DECEMBER, 2009 ASKED BY SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN REGARDING World Bank loan for road projects in Andhra Pradesh.

(a) to (e): The Board of Directors of the World Bank on 15th October 2009 has approved an IBRD loan of US$320 million for Andhra Pradesh Road Sector Project. The objective of the project is to improve the institutional capacity of the Andhra Pradesh Government in the road sector to provide better quality, capacity and safe roads to users in a sustainable manner. The total cost of the project is estimated at US$720.5 million with World Bank assistance of US$320 million. The balance amount of US$400.50 million would be met by the State Government. The components of the project are as under:

(1) Road improvement component (up-gradation and improvement of 429 kms of roads)

(2) PPP Enabling Support Component

(3) Institutional Strengthening Component

(4) Road Safety component
The Road project under this loan is likely to be completed by 2015.

1345. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether the funds were claimed in violation of norms and guidelines in the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY);

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons for such irregularities;

(c) the funds actually utilized during the last five years under PMGSY, State-wise; and

(d) the plan prepared under the current Five Year Plan for Andhra Pradesh?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI PRADEEP JAIN `ADITYA`)

(a): No, Sir.

(b): Does not arise.

(c): The expenditure incurred during the last five years State-wise is given at Annexure.

(d): In the 11th Five Year Plan (2007-12), State-wise plan for Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) has not been prepared.
Annexure
Statement referred to in reply to Part (c) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1345 due for reply on 1-12-2009
(Rs. In crore)
Sl. State 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09
Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure
No.
1 Andhra Pradesh 117.83 106.79 265.27 381.89 494.47
2 Arunachal Pradesh 16.10 3.20 64.15 131.76 152.01
3 Assam 113.82 255.88 461.66 608.75 1007.05
4 Bihar 106.90 184.67 458.36 580.68 1067.54
5 Chattisgarh 278.07 442.19 652.01 932.50 863.34
6 Goa 0.17 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00
7 Gujarat 62.25 79.98 109.51 156.99 255.26
8 Haryana 33.26 48.42 136.52 216.51 313.09
9 Himachal Pradesh 65.33 122.73 288.59 281.98 240.51
10 Jammu & Kashmir 5.78 16.95 35.24 105.09 190.71
11 Jharkhand 95.08 64.78 56.76 63.18 211.47
12 Karnataka 42.90 57.58 132.52 349.12 550.37
13 Kerala 18.00 15.76 25.19 61.32 84.41
14 Madhya Pradesh 439.51 587.72 1007.69 1358.73 2198.06
15 Maharashtra 31.15 178.32 218.75 637.33 929.98
16 Manipur 0.00 29.21 13.42 64.28 37.97
17 Meghalaya 10.92 11.18 16.75 15.59 12.64
18 Mizoram 46.68 43.94 37.85 59.47 54.55
19 Nagaland 24.29 20.86 32.63 20.42 87.31
20 Orissa 268.89 377.36 582.81 677.41 1163.01
21 Punjab 17.02 51.60 79.94 366.95 269.02
22 Rajasthan 450.16 608.27 1228.89 1455.44 1695.54
23 Sikkim 19.17 30.36 43.86 88.81 103.99
24 Tamil Nadu 79.66 52.22 68.09 108.65 127.87
25 Tripura 19.82 18.09 40.82 155.60 315.77
26 Uttar Pradesh 447.02 367.68 709.93 1201.04 2000.07
27 Uttaranchal 30.16 28.55 67.00 99.73 152.79
28 West Bengal 237.51 295.95 470.06 439.47 583.18
Total 3077.45 4100.39 7304.27 10618.69 15161.98

1320. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether it is a fact that about 1.5 million children under five die of diarrhea every year;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(c) the funds allocated and utilized to stop such deaths; and

(d) the precautionary measures being taken in future to stop such deaths permanently?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a) No, as per the Report on causes of death in India 2001-2003, about 1.5 million child deaths (0 – 4yrs) occur every year in the country. Diarrhoeal deaths account for 13.8 % of the total deaths in this age group.

(b) The question does not arise.

(c) & (d) There is no specific budget for diarrhoeal diseases. States are provided flexibility under NRHM to utilise the budget allocated as per their need.

Government of India is implementing the Management and Control of Diarrhoeal Disease under its Child Health programme, where cases of diarrhoea are provided with ORS and Zinc at health facilities and during home visits through ASHAs and ANMs. Behaviour Change Communications is also being implemented as part of Information Education and Communication (IEC) to bring about awareness on diarrhoea and other diseases. An Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDSP) is being implemented by the National Institute of Communicable Disease (NICD), Government of India to strengthen surveillance activities & to promote early detection of outbreak & to institute appropriate action for prevention & control of communicable diseases including Acute Diarrrhoeal Diseases (ADD).

1071. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether the country can further its climate resilience through a combination of measures and right incentives aimed at multiple levels of Government-local, State and national;

(b) if so, the details worked out, so far, in this direction; and

(c) the present status of Andhra Pradesh in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) to(c) National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) released on 30th June 2008 outlines a strategy to meet the challenge of Climate Change through a combination of sectoral measures taken by government in consultation with various stakeholders including state governments. Each of the eight national missions envisaged in the NAPCC is formulated by the nodal ministry in the Government of India and organized through inter-sectoral groups which include in addition to related Ministries, experts from industry, academia and civil society.

The Government has requested the State Governments including the Government of Andhra Pradesh to prepare State level Action Plan on Climate Change consistent with the strategy in the National Action Plan on Climate Change.

1068. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether giving more teeth to the Serious Fraud Investigation Office and strengthening corporate governance would be the main priority areas for Government;

(b) if so, the details worked out so far;

(c) the existing number of cases pending with his Ministry;

(d) the punishment given so far in such fraud cases during the last three years, year- wise; and

(e) the steps being taken to prevent serious frauds in future?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS

(SHRI SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a) & (b) With a view to strengthen the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), an Expert Committee under the Chairmanship of Shri Vepa Kamesam, former Deputy Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was constituted. The committee has submitted its report in April 2009 making various recommendations to strengthen the SFIO. The report is under examination. As regards strengthening of corporate governance, the Government has introduced Companies Bill 2009 in the Lok Sabha on 03.08.2009 which includes various measures in this direction.

(c) At present, 22 cases are under investigation with SFIO.

(d) Based on the investigation reports submitted after carrying out the investigation, the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) has filed, till date, 767 cases in courts.

(e) An elaborate regulatory framework is in place to prevent, to the extent possible, the occurrence of serious frauds. This framework provides for statutory disclosures about the affairs of companies intended to inform the stakeholders the truth about the state of affairs of companies. To facilitate making of such disclosures by companies, and for stakeholders and regulatory agencies, to easily access and view them, Government has set up an electronic registry with round the clock access through internet. The Government has powers of inspection of the books of accounts of companies and also, to investigate into their state of affairs, if need be, under the Companies Act, 1956. The Act also provides for appointment of independent, statutory auditors to audit the accounts and report to the shareholders. Such audited accounts are also displayed on the electronic registry for general viewing. While the reporting requirements are regulated under the Companies Act, 1956, the conduct of auditors is regulated under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949. In addition, for listed companies, compliance with these statutory requirements is required to be certified by a company secretary in practice, who in turn is regulated under the Company Secretaries Act, 1980. Government has amended the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949 and the Company Secretaries Act, 1980 in 2006 to provide for a more effective disciplinary mechanism to deal with cases of misconduct by Chartered Accountants and Company Secretaries respectively. In 2006, the Government has notified Accounting Standards to enable accounts of companies to be drawn up and disclosed on the basis of fair, transparent and internationally accepted principles. The Government has also introduced Companies Bill, 2009 in Lok Sabha on 3rd August, 2009 which seeks to make more stringent provisions in case of frauds by companies, their directors and auditors etc.

142. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has no control on the private channels to stop the obscenity in programmes, especially in those telecast during the day time;

(b) if so, the reasons therefore; and (

(c) the code to be implemented for private channels in future?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION & BROADCASTING

(SMT AMBIKA SONI)

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

STATEMENT AS REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) TO (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 142 FOR ANSWER ON 30.11.2009

(a) to (c) The Government exercises control over private channels with respect to the telecast of content as per the Programme and Advertising Codes prescribed under the Cable TV Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and Rules framed thereunder. This Ministry has also constituted an Inter Ministerial Committee to look into specific complaints or to take suo-motu cognizance against the violation of the Programme and Advertising Codes. Action is taken as per the provisions of the Cable Act whenever any specific violation is found.

The Government had also constituted a Committee for reviewing the existing Programme and Advertising Codes. The Committee has submitted its report which is available for wider public consultation on the website of this Ministry www.mib.gov.in under the heading ‘Code and Guidelines’ sub-heading ‘Self-Regulation Guidelines 2008’. Structured discussion in this regard is in progress.

1005. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has represented the 17th Conference of Commonwealth Education;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the views expressed by Government in the Conference; and

(d) the decisions arrived so far for the minority muslims, SCs, STs and OBCs?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) to (d): Yes, Sir. Hon’ble Minister of Human Resource Development, Government of India led a delegation comprising Secretary (School Education & Literacy), Joint Secretary (Distance Learning), Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) and APS to Hon’ble Minister of Human Resource Development that participated in the 17th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 15-18 June 2009. The focus of the conference was to improve access to early childhood care and education, secondary education, skill development, higher education, quality and professionalism of teachers, good governance, gender mainstreaming, education for respect and understanding, sustainable development, multi-grade teaching, strengthening HIV and AIDS education etc.

The communiqué issued at the conclusion of the conference clearly mention that the Ministers highlighted the need for all children to have equity of access to quality education, regardless of geographical location, resources, gender, ethnicity and ability, in order to equip them to interact effectively in a global community. Ministers committed themselves to working towards this end as a priority, while recognizing the need to tailor approaches to take account of socio-economic and cultural diversity across different member countries.

983. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that there is a need to have a forward looking policy to improve the nature, quality and access to education to achieve the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of education for all by 2015;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the progress made so far in this direction especially in Andhra Pradesh for the people like muslim minorities, SCs, STs, and OBCs; and

(d) the funds released in this direction so far to achieve the MDG?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) and (b) It is the constant endeavour of the Government to improve access, enrolment, equity and quality of education to all children in the age group of six to fourteen, through various initiatives, including the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Mid Day Meal Scheme and the Centrally Sponsored Scheme on Teacher Education. The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 was enacted in August, 2009 to provide for free and compulsory education to all children in the age group of six to fourteen years.

(c) The achievements in elementary education are indicated below.

Indicator 2001-02 2006-07

Gross Enrolment Ratio (classes 82.4 96.92
I – VIII)

Dropout Rate (classes I- VIII) 54.6 46.03

No. of out-of-school children 3.20 0.45 (in

(in crore) 2008)

Gender Parity Index (class I – 0.81 0.92
VIII)

Access to primary school 86.96% (in 99% (in

(within 1 km) 2002) 2008)

Access to upper primary school 78.11% (in 90% (in

(within 3 km) 2002) 2008)

Gross Enrolment Ratio (classes 85.6 105.69
I – VIII) for SCs

Gross Enrolment Ratio (classes 88.9 109.48
I – VIII) for STs

In respect of Andhra Pradesh the achievements are as under :

Indicator 2001-02 2006-07

Gross Enrolment Ratio (classes 82.47 88.13
I – VIII)

Dropout Rate (classes I- VIII) 63.09 56.74
Gender Parity Index (class I – 0.81 0.99
VIII)

Gross Enrolment Ratio (classes 97.07 94.57
I – VIII) for SCs

Gross Enrolment Ratio (classes 83.58 94.44
I – VIII) for STs

Information on the above indicators in respect of Muslims
minorities and OBCs is not maintained centrally.

(d) The expenditure incurred by the Central Government during the
last two years is as under

(in Rs crore)
Scheme 2007-08 2008-09
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan 11,477.39 12,643.17
Mid Day Meal Scheme 5,835.44 6,688.02
Teacher Education Scheme 315.00 253.71

866. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) the status of Multi Model Transport System (MMTS) project in Andhra Pradesh;

(b) the amount incurred so far on each project;

(c) the project which are in pipeline;

(d) the pending projects whose survey is to be done for the current year;

(e) the share of the State and the Ministry funding, so far; and

(f) the requests pending with the Ministry for sanction of financial assistance?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI SAUGATA ROY)

(a): Multi Model Transport System (MMTS) in Andhra Pradesh is dealt by Ministry of Railways. They have informed that MMTS has been introduced in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad in February, 2004. Under the 1st phase of work, MMTS was made operational in two legs – Hyderabad- Secunderabad- Lingampalli (33 Km) and Hyderabad-Secunderabad- Kacheguda- Falaknuma (24.54 Km). The projects under 2nd phase of MMTS have not been submitted by Government of Andhra Pradesh after approvals of State Government level.

(b): The details of expenditure incurred for Phase-I works so far is as follows:

Expenditure incurred so far (Rs. In Crore)
Railways 83.63
Government of Andhra Pradesh 83.63
Total 167.26

(c): The MMTS Phase-II project proposal in Andhra Pradesh in twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad concerns the following six works :-
S. No. Route Route Km.
i) Secunderabad- Medchel- Manoharabad 43
ii) Secunderabad- Ghatkesar- Bhongir 46
iii) Maula Ali-Sanatnagar 21.85
iv) Lingampally- Patancheru 8.75
v) Maula Ali- Kacheguda 10
vi) Falaknuma- Shamshabad 20

(d): There are no pending MMTS Projects in Hyderabad area where survey is to be done in the current year. However, a survey for doubling has been taken up between Secunderabad-Mehboobnagar (113 Km)

(e): Government of Andhra Pradesh has been approached to bear two-thirds of the cost of the project.

(f): Nil.

831. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of PLANNING be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that only 60 per cent of money in centrally sponsored schemes reached the target groups;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(c) whether it is a fact that there is no proper monitoring agency for the works either in the Central or the State Governments; and

(d) if so, the comments of Government thereon?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY)

(a) to (d): No, Sir. State-wise release of funds under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS), as well as monitoring of their utilization by each State, is undertaken by the respective Central Government Ministry/Departments implementing the CSS. The modalities for implementation of such schemes are clearly outlined by the Ministries/Departments of the Central Government in the guidelines of each Scheme. The Administrative Ministry/Department concerned of Central Government and the State Governments have to ensure proper use of funds given to States. The States also provide Utilization Certificates from time to time and other reports, as may be prescribed based on which further release of funds is made. The Comptroller & Auditor General has the constitutional responsibility to audit the utilization of funds and report any misuse / diversion to the Parliament / State Legislatures.

745. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether silk-industry employs about 6 million people who are engaged in various sericulture activities;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise especially in Andhra Pradesh;

(c) whether women constitute over 60 per cent of those employed in down-stream activities like mulberry garden management, leaf harvesting and silkworm rearing;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) what welfare measures Government has taken for such persons engaged in silk industry during the last five years, State-wise especially in Andhra Pradesh?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

( SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI )

(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. The employment generation from sericulture activities during the year 2008-09 was 6.31 million persons (estimated). The State-wise details of the employment in silk sector including Andhra Pradesh is as under:
Sr.No. Name of State Men Women Total(in Lakh Persons)

1. Karnataka 5.70 7.86 13.56

2. Andhra Pradesh 3.41 4.80 8.21

3. Tamil Nadu 1.91 2.76 4.67

4. West Bengal 2.09 2.88 4.97

5. J & K 0.98 2.19 3.17

6. Others 10.99 17.53 28.52

Total 25.08 38.02 63.10

(Source : State Department of Sericulture)

(c) & (d): Yes, Sir. It is estimated that 60% of those employed in the pre-cocoon activities such as mulberry cultivation, leaf harvesting, silkworm rearing and cocoon harvesting in the country during the year 2008-09 are women employees. The percentage of women employees in pre-cocoon activities in Andhra Pradesh is 58.27. The table below indicates the gender wise employment under pre-cocoon sector in different States during 2008-09:
Unit: Lakh Nos.

# States Men Women Total

1 Karnataka 4.19 5.59 9.78

2 AP 2.47 3.45 5.92

3 TN 1.35 1.99 3.34

4 West Bengal 1.51 2.08 3.59

5 J&K 0.71 1.57 2.28

6 Others 7.95 12.59 20.54

Total 18.18 27.27 45.45

(Source : State Department of Sericulture)

(e): The following are the welfare measures taken by the Government for the benefit of women in the silk industry:

( i) Training to women Sericulturists:
The Research Institutes of the Central Silk Board provide training to women sericulturists to enhance their skill and competency in sericulture. The Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute of CSB at Mysore has organised exclusive training programmes for women under a Department of Bio-Technology (DBT) sponsored programme. The Institute has also taken-up a project to study and develop women friendly technologies to reduce the drudgery. These benefits are being provided in most sericulture States.

(ii) Catalytic Development Programme:
The Catalytic Development Programme a Centrally Sponsored Programme of the Government of India implemented by the Central Silk Board in collaboration with the State Government provides support to all stake holders of silk industry including women. During XI Plan it is targeted to cover women beneficiaries as per the following details, under this CDP programme.
Sector Coverage of beneficiaries

Women

Mulberry 30%

Tasar 30%

Eri 60%

Muga 30%

(iii) Health Insurance for Women Workers : The Scheme aims at financially enabling the women workers in the silk industry to access the best of health facilities in the country. The scheme is being implemented through ICICI Lombard. The scheme involves a premium of Rs.767.28 per year per person, which provides a health coverage to the tune of Rs.15,000 per year. The benefit of the scheme is applicable to the Women workers and their family (1+3). The cost of the premium is shared between Central Silk Board, State and beneficiaries in the ratio of 75:15:10. A provision of Rs.2.26 crores has been made to cover 31,000 women beneficiaries under the scheme during XI Plan. Due to the overwhelming popularity of the scheme, 47,620 women beneficiaries were covered in 10 states with the CSB’s share of Rs.3.02 crores during the years 2008-09 and 2009-10. Out of these, 4760 women beneficiaries were covered in Andhra Pradesh State with the CSB’s share of Rs.29.9 lakh during this period. Further, it is proposed to cover another 94,220 women beneficiaries during the current year (2009-10) taking up the total number to 1,41,840 beneficiaries.
In addition to the above, the insurance schemes are being implemented as a social security measure for the benefit the stake holders of silk industry covering both men and women – > Insurance coverage for silkworm crop > Insurance coverage for rearing house > Insurance coverage for Rearing, Reeling and Weaving equipments > Personal accident coverage for the beneficiary and their family As regards, insurance Schemes implemented, state-wise beneficiaries covered are given below:
State Component 2008-09 2009-10

Physical Achmnt. Financial

(in Lakhs) Physical Achmnt. Financial

(Rs. Lakhs)

West
Bengal Crop Insurance 6.99 lakh Dfls
2450 Beneficiaries covered
6.80
6.73 lakh Dfls
1,162 Beneficiaries covered 5.07

Personal Accident 1705Beneficiaries covered
0.48 1,162 Beneficiaries covered

0.33

Kerala Crop Insurance 1.00 lakh Dfls
1000Beneficiaries covered
1.28 0.50 lakh Dfls
500 Beneficiaries covered

0.64
Rearing Equipment

300 sheds(small) 0.03 200 sheds (big)
0.13

Jharkhand Crop Insurance 1.50 lakh Dfls 750Beneficiaries covered 2.75 – – Other States are yet to avail the benefits of the Scheme

(iv) Creating Toilets, Rest Rooms and Crèche facilities for women in Cocoon Markets:
In order to encourage the direct participation of women in cocoon markets, it is envisaged to create separate toilets, rest rooms, exclusively for women in cocoon markets and provide crèche facilities for their kids so as to enable them to freely participate in the cocoon transactions. A provision of Rs.62.50 lakhs has been made to create 25 such facilities in the cocoon markets during XI Plan. The table below indicates State-wise number of such Units created during the last three years (2007-08 to 2009-10) under the Scheme:

# States No. of units 2007-08 to 2009-10 Amount released (lakh Rs.)
Remarks

1 Karnataka 8 15.00 Under construction

2 Tamilnadu 4 7.50 Completed

3 Andhra Pradesh Nil Nil No request received from the state

GRAND TOTAL 12 22.50

(v) Cluster Development Programme: The Government of India through Central Silk Board has organized 51 sericulture Clusters in 16 States including Andhra Pradesh. All the Schemes of the Government for the development of sericulture are made available to the beneficiaries in identified clusters. Priority is being given to Women Self Help Groups in such cluster development projects.

620. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that continuous deployment has resulted in a sharp rise in the stress level of soldiers, as evident from a large number of stress-related diseases like hypertension, hear ailments and psychiatric problems;

(b) if so, the details thereof in the Army, Air Force and Navy divisions; and

(c) the steps being taken to avoid such situation in future?
Answer
(SHRI A.K. ANTONY)

MINISTER OF DEFENCE

(a) to (c): A statement is attached.

STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF PARTS (a) TO (c) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 620 FOR 25.11.2009 REGARDING RISING IN STRESS LEVEL OF SOLDIERS DUE TO CONTINUOUS DEPLOYMENT.

As far as continuous deployment of soldiers is concerned, rotation of personnel deployed in sensitive/stressful situations is ensured. No sharp increase in diseases like hypertension, heart disease and psychiatric illness, amongst Armed Forces personnel has been noticed in the recent past. Further, such diseases are not solely attributable to their deployment.

However, the Government has been continuously taking measures for reducing stress among the Armed Forces personnel. Some of the steps taken are:-

(i) Counselling on stress management by trained and qualified Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nursing Assistants.

(ii) State Governments have been requested to make the civil administration more responsive to the problems of serving soldiers and their families.

(iii) Stress related issues are addressed by the Commanders through Group discussions/ workshops / counselling session / stress management courses.

(iv) Utilization of religious teachers to counsel troops.

(v) Leave policy has been liberalized.

(vi) All personnel returning to unit after leave are interviewed and medically examined by the Regimental Medical Officer. Any stress marker is looked for and motivational talk is rendered.

(vii) The training capsules on relaxation techniques including Yoga and Pranayam have been introduced.

617. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the silk export has risen;

(b) if so, the year-wise details thereof of the last five years;

(c) the amount earned by the Government; and

(d) the export policy prepared for the current Five Year Plan to each country?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)

(a) to (c): Exports of readymade garments of silk have grown steadily during the last five years. However, exports of natural silk yarn, fabrics & made-ups and silk waste have shown a declining trend during the last five years as may be seen from the table below. The earning of exports for the silk products is also indicated in the table in US$ million.

(b)

2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09

US$ Mn US$ Mn US$ Mn US$ Mn US$ Mn

Readymade Garment of Silk 189.54 260.72 264.37 271.78 312.59

Natural Silk yarn, fabrics & made-ups 404.69 428.06 436.55 382.93 361.80

Silk Waste 03.3 4.50 5.03 3.02 1.14

Total. 594.56 693.28 705.95 657.72 675.53

Source: DGCI&S Kolkata (Provisional Figures)

(d): The Foreign Trade Policy for 2009-14 was announced on 27th August,
2009, which inter-alia covers various schemes viz. Focus Market Scheme and
Focus Product Scheme. The complete text of the Foreign Trade Policy 2009-14 is
available on web-site of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade viz.
http://dgft.gov.in.

96. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether sugar has become the nation`s biggest imported item;

(b) if so, the details thereof during the last five years, year-wise;

(c) the reasons for such import; and

(d) the steps being taken to increase the production to meet the demands by giving incentives to the sugarcane farmers in each State especially in the southern States?
Answer
MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

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

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 96 FOR ANSWER ON 25TH NOVEMBER 2009 REGARDING “INCENTIVES TO INCREASE PRODUCTION OF SUGARCANE ”

(a) to (c) No, Sir. Sugar is not the nation’s single largest imported item, Sugar imports constitute only a small fraction of the total imports. Imports are undertaken to increase overall domestic availability of sugar. Import of sugar during the last five years, year-wise, has been as under:-
Quantity : In Lac Tons
Financial Year 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09
Import of Sugar 9.33 5.59 Negligible Negligible 3.61
(P)

Source: Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence

(d) The Central Government has taken a number of steps to encourage production of sugarcane as detailed below:

(i) The Central Government has fixed the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane payable by sugar mills for 2009-10 sugar season. This FRP substantially high over the SMP of 2008-09 sugar season.

(ii) The Sustainable Development of Sugarcane Based Cropping System (SUBACS) is one of the Component of Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) namely Revised Macro Management of Agriculture Scheme (RMMA). RMMA is implemented in all States and Union territories of the country. The main thrust of SUBACS is on the transfer of improved production technology to the farmers through field demonstrations, training of farmers, supply of farm implements enhancing production of planting material, efficient use of water, treatment of planting materials. During 2008-09, in all, 19 States implemented SUBACS.

(iii) Concessional loans at an interest rate of 4% per-annum are given to sugar factories from Sugar Development Fund (SDF) for modernization of plant and machinery, expansion of crushing capacity, utilization of bye-products which baggage for co-generation of power and molasses for production of ethanol, upgradation of technology and sugarcane development including better irrigation facilities, improved seed variety, ratoon management, etc.

(iv) A short term scheme has been announced for cane development in the current financial year under which loans of Rs.1 – 2.5 crores will be available to sugar factories depending upon their crushing capacity, for purchase of seeds, fertilizers and pesticides etc. This loan is expected to be passed on to the farmers.

458. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Airports Authority of India has any proposal to raise Rs. 2000 crores for airport modernization;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the amount raised so far at each airport;

(d) the status of modernization work so far and future action plan in this regard; and

(e) the burden of the same on the air passengers in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION

( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )

(a): Yes Sir.

(b): Airports Authority of India (AAI) has proposed to raise Rs.2000 crores in BE 2009-10 through borrowings to meet its requirement of funds for development of airports infrastructure in the country.

(c): AAI had raised short term loans amounting to Rs.380 crores till 30.09.2009.

(d): The details of works completed, in progress and planned are given in Annexures I, II, III & IV respectively.

(e): Borrowings by AAI to meet its funds requirement will not cast any burden on the passenger fares.

452. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of the present status of debts of each airline;

(b) the comparative details thereof during the last three years;

(c) the exact reasons for such debts of airlines; and

(d) the steps being taken to avoid such situation in future?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION

( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )

(a) to (d):- The information is being collected.

438. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Delhi International Airport Limited has promised a comfortable transit for Haj pilgrims out of Indira Gandhi International Airport;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Haj pilgrims have expressed their satisfaction with the arrangements at the Airport; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION

( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )

(a) and (b): Yes, Sir. Delhi International Airport Limited have made the following arrangements to ensure comfortable transit for Haj Pilgrims:-

(i) Upgraded Haj Terminal for Operations;
(ii) Maintenance checks carried out;
(iii) Liaison with Customs, Immigrations, CISF;
(iv) Displayed Haj Signages;
(v) Temporary Tentage created;
(vi) Provided temporary parking space for meters/greeters;
(viii) Deployed Traffic Marshalls & Raxa staff;
(viii) Tow crane kept ready for smooth traffic;
(ix) Alternate route to T2 & New Udaan Bhawan identified and repaired;
(x) Barricading of Pedestrian routes and Traffic Marshalls to assist passengers. (c) and (d): Yes, Sir. Delhi International Airport Limited has informed that it has received a lot of appreciation, albEit verbally.

405. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of the power generation during the last three years, year-wise and State- wise;

(b) the details of the power consumption during the last three years, year-wise and State- wise; and

(c) how Government is meeting the shortage of power in the country for the current Five Year Plan?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) : The state-wise details of power generation during last three years (2006-07 to 2008-09) are given at Annex-I.

(b) : The state/UT-wise energy consumption (Sales to ultimate consumers – utility & non utility) for three years i.e. 2005-06, 2006-07 and 2007-08 (latest available) are given at Annex-II.

(c) : The steps taken / being taken by the Government to mitigate shortage of power in the country during the current plan include
(i) quantum jump in generating capacity addition;
(ii) development of Ultra Mega Power Projects of 4,000 MW each;
(iii) harnessing surplus captive power into the grid;
(iv) import of coal;
(v) enhanced availability of gas from KG basin;
(vi) augmentation of manufacturing capacity of equipment for electric power in the country; and
(vii) demand side management, energy efficiency and energy conservation measures.

404. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) the new power projects coming up in each State especially in Andhra Pradesh;

(b) the details of such new projects under the current Five Year Plan;

(c) the estimated project cost of such new projects, State-wise; and

(d) the capacity of power projects to meet the future demands of each State?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) to (d) : State-wise details of new generation projects under construction in the country, including those in Andhra Pradesh, indicating inter alia, estimated cost , capacity, commissioning schedule etc. in respect of each project are given at Annex – I for Thermal and Nuclear Projects & Annex – II for Hydro Projects.

403. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether there is power shortage in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise, especially in Andhra Pradesh;

(c) the actual demand and supply in each State especially in Andhra Pradesh during the last three years; and

(d) by when 100 per cent power would be supplied for domestic and industrial purposes in each State especially in Andhra Pradesh to develop the country in all aspects?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) & (b) : Yes, Sir. There is an overall shortage of power in the country both in terms of energy and peaking power. The shortages vary from state to state on month to month and day to day basis depending upon the demand and supply of power. The energy and peaking shortage in the country during 2009-10 (April to October, 2009) was 9.8 % and 12.6 % respectively. The state/UT-wise details in this regard, including Andhra Pradesh, are enclosed at Annex.-I.

(c) : The State/UT-wise details of actual demand and supply of power including Andhra Pradesh during the last three years are given at Annex.-II.

(d) : Electricity is in the concurrent list in the constitution of India. The supply and distribution of electricity to various sectors in a State comes under the purview of State Government/State Power Utilities. The National Electricity Policy notified by the Government stipulates that demand for electricity to be fully met by 2012; energy and peaking shortages to be overcome and adequate spinning reserve to be available.

338. SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) the details of the forest cover which were making valuable contributions to the national ecosystem, State-wise;

(b) the comparative details of the forest cover during the last five years, State-wise; and

(c) the steps being taken to improve the forest cover in each State?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) The State-wise details of forest cover is given in Annexure-I.

(b) The details of forest cover (State-wise) from 2001 to 2005 are given in Annexure-II. The latest data on forest cover is available based upon State of Forests Report, 2005 published by Forest Survey of India (FSI), Dehradun.

(c) The steps taken to increase the forest cover under various schemes of Central and State Government include National Afforestation Programme, Integrated Forest Protection Scheme, Eco-Development Force (EDF) Scheme, Grants-in- Aid for Greening India Scheme, Gram Van Yojana (GVY) for afforestation on non forest lands, Assistance for Development of National Parks and Sanctuaries for afforestation, regeneration of degraded forests etc.