Questions asked by Mrs. Mohsina Kidwai during Rajya Sabha session November – December 2009

No. of questions found: 38

3543. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) : whether according to a study conducted by Government, it has been revealed that a large number of children are facing one or more form of sexual abuse;

(b) : if so, the details thereof;

(c) : whether the ` Child Abuse: India 2007` published by her Ministry has revealed shocking instances of child sexual abuse; and

(d) : if so, the details thereof and further steps Government has taken/proposes to take to check such instances?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

(SHRIMATI KRISHNA TIRATH)

(a),(b),(c)&(d): A study on Child Abuse was undertaken by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in 2007 which covered 13 States with a sample size of 12447 children, 2324 young adults and 2449 stakeholders. Major findings of the Study regarding sexual abuse of children are given in Annexure.
The issues relating to child abuse are being addressed by the Government through policies, legislations, plans, schemes and programmes which include National Policy on Children 1974, National Charter for Children 2003, Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2000 and its amendment in 2006, Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act 1986, National Plan of Action for Children 2005, Integrated Child Protection Scheme, Scheme for Working Children, etc. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, a statutory body set up in March 2007, also inquires into the complaints of violation of child rights.

Annexure Annexure in reply to Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3543 for 21.12.2009 by Smt. Mohsina Kidwai & Smt. Shobhana Bhartia

Sexual Abuse

1. 53.22% children reported having faced one or more forms of sexual abuse.

2. Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar and Delhi reported the highest percentage of sexual abuse among both boys and girls.

3. 21.90% child respondents reported facing severe forms of sexual abuse and 50.76% other forms of sexual abuse.

4. Out of the child respondents, 5.69% reported being sexually assaulted.

5. Children in Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Delhi reported the highest incidence of sexual assault. 6. Children on street, children at work and children in institutional care reported the highest incidence of sexual assault.

7 50% abuses are persons known to the child or in a position of trust and responsibility.

8. Most children did not report the matter to anyone

Annexure Annexure in reply to Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3543 for 21.12.2009 by Smt. Mohsina Kidwai & Smt. Shobhana Bhartia

Sexual Abuse

1. 53.22% children reported having faced one or more forms of sexual abuse.

2. Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar and Delhi reported the highest percentage of sexual abuse among both boys and girls.

3. 21.90% child respondents reported facing severe forms of sexual abuse and 50.76% other forms of sexual abuse.

4. Out of the child respondents, 5.69% reported being sexually assaulted.

5. Children in Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Delhi reported the highest incidence of sexual assault. 6. Children on street, children at work and children in institutional care reported the highest incidence of sexual assault.

7 50% abuses are persons known to the child or in a position of trust and responsibility.

8. Most children did not report the matter to anyone

3243. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI

Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) the steps taken by Government to bring more area under irrigation and improve farm techniques to ensure food security;

(b) the steps taken by Government to upgrade the agriculture-based research and development and developing new crop varieties that are resistant to different weather conditions;

(c) the details thereof; and

(d) in what manner Government is going to help the farmers during the Rabi season particularly in case of shortage of irrigation facilities?
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) to (d): Ministry of Water Resources is implementing `Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme` (AIBP) to provide financial assistance to expedite completion of surface- water major & Medium irrigation projects. Central assistance is provided in the form of grant which is 90 percent of the project cost. Funding under programme is made on the basis of proposal made by the State Government. Also, government is assisting for Promotion of improved method of irrigation like sprinkler and drip irrigation, water intensive crops by less water requiring crops, promotion of System of Rice Intensification (SRI) through crop development schemes of Ministry of Agriculture.
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed crop protection/production technologies, improved varieties /hybrids of different crops that are adapted to different weather conditions, amelioration technology for waterlogged, salt affected and acids soil, etc.
In consultation with Ministry of Power, need based additional demand of the States for power supply has been ensured during critical phases of rabi operations, apart from that irrigation/water conservation component scheme such as sprinkler/drips, pumpsets, percolation tanks have been provided under crop development schemes.

435. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that the quality of food/snacks available at railway platforms and in trains is highly unhygienic;

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

(c) whether regular inspections are not carried out by railway authorities to check food quality at platforms and in trains; and

(d) if so, the steps contemplated by Government to ensure availability of quality food in trains as well as at railway platforms?
Answer

MINISTER OF RAILWAYS

( KUMARI MAMATA BANERJEE )

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

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF STARRED QUESTION NO. 435 BY SHRIMATI MOSHINA KIDWAI AND SHRIMATI SHOBHANA BHARTIA TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 18-12-2009 REGARDING QUALITY OF FOOD SUPPLIED IN TRAINS

(a) to (d): Improvement in catering services is an ongoing process. This includes maintenance of hygiene, standard and quality of food, introduction of good quality packaging, revision of menu, procurement of raw material from approved/quality sources, etc. Regular as well as surprise checks are conducted by the railway administration to monitor the catering services and remedial actions are taken. Steps taken by Railways to ensure food quality, hygiene and nutritional content of food, etc. are as under:-

(i) The Food and Health Inspectors of Zonal Railways regularly take samples for verification under Prevention of Food Adulteration Act (PFA).

(ii) A central control has been setup by IRCTC at New Delhi to monitor the quality of catering services. This is equipped with phone, Fax, PC with broadband internet connectivity and scanner and is operational round the clock.

(iii) On-line Complaint Management system has been introduced to facilitate online lodging of complaints by logging on IRCTC’s website at www.irctc.com.

(iv) A national toll free number 1800-111-139 has been launched for lodging of complaints by passengers. Facilities of receipt of complaint through SMS are under process of implementation.

(v) Food audit is being done in various areas including premium trains, base kitchens and food plazas.

(vi) A number of special drives have been conducted on premium trains, base kitchens, food plazas and other units through officers and Quality Control Professionals (QCPs) so as to improve quality of catering services. Punitive steps e.g. warning, fines, termination, etc. have been taken against defaulters.

(vii) Customer satisfaction surveys are conducted through reputed independent agencies such as IMRB International. However, complaints on quality of food supplied to the passengers continue to be received. In order to further revamp the quality of services, the catering policy is being reviewed.

3146. SHRI MAHENDRA MOHAN
N. JANARADHANA REDDY ISHWAR SINGH ALKA BALRAM KSHATRIYA MOHSINA KIDWAI
Will the Minister of HOUSING AND URBAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has recently decided to announce a new housing policy;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the problem of houses is increasing and now it has become beyond the reach of common man to purchase house; and

(d) if so, the steps taken by Government to make buying houses more affordable?
Answer

THE MINISTER OF HOUSING & URBAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION

(KUMARI SELJA)

(a)&(b): The National Urban Housing & Habitat Policy (NUHHP) announced in 2007 aims at promotion of sustainable development of habitat in the country with a view to ensure equitable supply of land, shelter and services at affordable prices to all sections of society. Given the magnitude of the housing shortage and budgetary constraints of both the Central and State Governments, the Policy seeks to associate multiple stakeholders, the Private Sector, the Cooperative Sector, the Industrial Sector and the Services/Institutional Sector for realizing the goal of “Affordable Housing for All”.

(c)&(d):‘Land’ and ‘Colonisation’ being State subjects, it is primarily the responsibility of State Governments to provide for adequate Shelter at affordable cost. However, the Union Government has formulated the first urban area focused National Urban Housing & Habitat Policy, 2007 to set in motion a process in providing ‘Affordable Housing for All’ particularly the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Low Income Group (LIG). Apart from this, Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), launched by the Government in the year 2005 caters to provision of housing and basic services to urban poor in 65 specified cities under the Sub Mission Basic Services to the Urban Poor (BSUP) and in other cities and towns under the Integrated Housing and Slum Development Programme (IHSDP). A total of 462 projects under Basic Services to the Urban Poor (BSUP) and 842 projects under Integrated Housing & Slum Development Programme (IHSDP) have been approved all over the country so far envisaging construction/ upgradation of 995183 and 464089 dwelling units respectively. A new scheme – Interest Subsidy Scheme for Housing the Urban Poor (ISHUP) has been launched for providing interest subsidy on housing urban poor to make the housing affordable and within the repaying capacity of Economically Weaker Sections (EWS)/ Low Income Group (LIG). The scheme encourages poor sections to avail of loan facilities through Commercial Banks/Housing Finance Companies for the purposes of construction/acquisition of houses and avail 5% subsidy in interest payment for loans upto Rs. 1 lakh. Further, with a view to encourage allotment of land for EWS, under the newly launched Scheme of ‘Affordable Housing in Partnership’, Central Government assistance will be provided on a progressive scale vis-à-vis built up area earmarked for EWS/LIG as a percentage of total constructed area. The assistance would be available for the provision of civic services such as water supply including ground level/overhead service reservoirs, storm water drainage, solid waste management, sewerage including common sewerage treatment facilities, rain water harvesting, approach roads, electricity lines etc.

3020. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that children of construction workers at various sites, where construction is going on, face serious risk due to health hazards and accidents;

(b) if so, the estimated number of construction workers working in various metropolitan cities including Delhi;

(c) whether the welfare schemes have been provided to the children of these construction workers who are found mostly roaming around the construction sites; and

(d) the responsibility of the States in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT

(SHRI HARISH RAWAT)

(a): There are various provisions contained in the Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996 concerning safety and health of construction workers at their workplace, including provision for crèches for children under the age of six years of female workers, in every place wherein, more than fifty female building workers are ordinarily employed.

(b): A Statement showing the estimated number of construction workers working in Metropolitan cities including Delhi, is annexed.

(c) & (d): Under the Act, the State Governments are required to constitute State Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board. The State Welfare Boards are required to formulate and implement welfare schemes. Such Schemes relate to immediate assistance in case of workers accident, pension after age of 60 years, loans for the purpose of construction of house, premium for group insurance scheme, assistance for education of children of beneficiaries, medical expenses, maternity benefits to female, etc.

2982. PROF. ALKA BALRAM KSHATRIYA
JANARDHAN WAGHMARE MOHSINA KIDWAI MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Union Government has asked DGS of CRPF, BSF and ITBP to spare battalions to launch large scale operations against Naxalites;

(b) if so, the details of locations where such battalions would be stationed;

(c) whether the withdrawal of forces from CRPF, BSF and ITBP would have any affect on the present security positions; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI AJAY MAKEN)

(a) to (d): State Governments deal with the various issues related to naxalite activities in the States. The Central Government supplements their efforts in several ways on security and development fronts. On the security side 58 battalions of Central Para Military Forces have been deployed on anti-naxalite duties in the States of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. There is no adverse effect on the situation as deployment is a dynamic process based on changing requirements of States and availability of forces.

2979. PROF. ALKA BALRAM KSHATRIYA
JANARDHAN WAGHMARE MOHSINA KIDWAI MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government or various intelligence agencies have information that some hard core Lashkar-e-Taiba commanders have infiltrated into the country over the past few months;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Union Government has directed to the State Governments and other intelligence agencies to track down such Lashkar-e-Taiba commanders and defuse their terror plans; and

(d) if so, the other strategies made by Government to track down such millitants?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI AJAY MAKEN)

(a) :& (b): Available inputs do not indicate that some hardcore Lashkar-e-Taiba commanders have infiltrated into the country over the past few months.

(c) & (d): Apart from the multi-dimensional approach pursued by the Government to combat terrorism, the Central intelligence/security agencies work in tandem with their counterparts in the States, to thwart the nefarious designs of terrorists. This cooperation has, inter-alia, resulted in the arrest of a number of terrorists thereby averting terrorist incidents.

397. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Unorganized Workers Social Security Act, 2008 was enacted to provide social security to the workers in the unorganized sector;

(b) if so, whether Government has now decided to constitute a sub-committee on unorganized sector;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether the workers in the unorganized sector remain unprotected inspite of enactment of the Unorganised Workers Social Security Act, 2008; and

(e) if so, the other steps Government proposes to take to provide adequate protection to workers in the unorganized sector?
Answer
MINISTER OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT

(SHRI MALLIKARJUN KHARGE)

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

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) TO (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 397 FOR 16.12.2009 REGARDING PROVIDING PROTECTION TO WORKERS IN UNORGANIZED SECTOR.

(a) to (e): The Government has enacted the Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008. The Act provides for constitution for National Social Security Board which shall recommend formulation of social security schemes viz. life and disability cover, health and maternity benefits, old age protection and any other benefit as may be determined by the Central Government. The schemes as are listed in Schedule-I of the Act are already in operation. These schemes provide social security cover to some segments of unorganized workers. As mandated under the Act, the Government has also constituted the National Social Security Board under the Chairmanship of Minister of Labour & Employment. The Board held its first meeting on 23.9.2009. Consequent to a decision taken in the meeting, a tripartite Sub-Committee consisting of representatives of workers, employers and civil society has been constituted to:
(i) consider and recommend ways and means to extend existing social security schemes like RSBY, to other segments of unorganized workers
(ii) examine and suggest other social security schemes for unorganized workers, including the mechanism for implementation and the funding thereof
(iii) any other suggestion regarding providing social security to unorganized workers. The Sub-Committee has already met twice. The recommendations of the Sub-Committee would be placed before the National Social Security Board.

362. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of RURAL DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether several State Governments have recently give their recommendations on the objectives of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme(NREGS);

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the recommendations given by various State Governments have been examined by the Central Government; and

(d) if so, the details of the recommendations accepted by the Central Government and the manner in which those recommendations are likely to be implemented across the county?
Answer
MINISTER OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT

(DR. C. P. JOSHI)

(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. 362 for answer on 15.12.09.

(a) & (b): No, Sir. No State Government has recently given its recommendations on the objectives of NREGA.

(c) & (d): The recommendations given by the various State Governments for expansion of the works under NREGA have been considered by the Ministry of Rural Development. The benefits of works on individual lands as given in para 1 (iv) of Schedule I of NREG Act have been extended to small and marginal farmers vide Notification dated 22.7.2009 as per the following amendment:
`Provision of irrigation facility, horticulture plantation and land development facilities to land owned by households belonging to the Schedule Castes and Schedule Tribes or below poverty line families or to beneficiaries of land reforms or to the beneficiaries under the Indira Awaas Yojana of Government of India or that of the small farmers or marginal farmers as defined in the Agriculture Debt Waiver and Debit Relief Scheme, 2008.`
Further, construction of Bharat Nirman Rajiv Gandhi Sewa Kendra as Village Knowledge Resource Centre and Gram Panchayat Bhawan at Gram Panchayat level has been included as a permissible activity in para 1 of Schedule I of the Act vide Notification dated 11.11.2009.
Other recommendations made in this regard are under consideration of the Government.

2648. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has decided to bring out a White Paper on the current state of scientific knowledge on the Himalayan Glaciers?

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether an institutional mechanism has been established to monitor the trends and variability of glaciers and study the impact of changes on the hydrological regime in the region; and

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

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) & (b) Government has no proposal to bring out a White Paper on the current state of scientific knowledge on the Himalayan Glaciers. However, a Discussion Paper on Himalayan Glacier has been published.

(c)& (d) A new research centre on Himalayan Glaciology has been established at Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun. Guidelines and best practices for Governance for Sustaining Himalayan Eco-system (G-SHE) has been developed and shared with all State Governments in the Himalayan region.

2644. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI

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

(a) whether Government has granted permission to introduce genetically modified crops;

(b) if so, the details of such food crops and whether Government have studied the effects of GM food crops in the country;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether some State Governments have opposed Bt. brinjal and other crops on the ground that the farmers loose their rights over seeds; and

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

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a)to(c)The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) has approved the environmental release of several Bt cotton hybrids expressing six events. The GEAC in its meeting held on 14.10.2009 has also recommended to the Government that Bt brinjal is safe for environmental release taking into consideration the findings of the review by three high level technical Committees namely; the Review Committee on Genetic Manipulations and two Expert Committees constituted by the GEAC in 2006 and 2009. The decision of the GEAC on the safety of Bt brinjal for environmental release is based on scientific facts/data generated during 2002-2009 and international experience with GM crops. The Government of India is following a policy of case by case approval of genetically modified (GM) crops. In view of various concerns related to the safety, efficacy and agronomic performance of transgenic seeds, extensive evaluation and regulatory approval process takes place before any GM plant is approved for commercial cultivation This includes generation of relevant biosafety information and its elaborate analysis to ensure food, feed and environmental safety. The environmental safety assessment includes studies on pollen escape out- crossing, aggressiveness and weediness, effect of the gene on non-target organisms, presence of protein in soil and its effect on soil micro-flora, confirmation of the absence of terminator gene and baseline susceptibility studies. The food and feed safety studies include assessment on composition analysis, allergenicity and toxicological studies and feeding studies on fish, chicken, cows and buffaloes. In case, the transgenic crop is not found suitable for release in the environment or human consumption, the product is rejected during the trial stage itself. A final view on the commercialization of GM plants is taken only when there is a clear economic and technical justification for release of the product.

(d)&(e)As the Ministry has received strong views both in favour and against commercialization of Bt brinjal in India from various stakeholders including the State Governments, farmers, civil societies, NGOs and scientists, the Ministry has decided to hold national consultations with the stakeholders before a final view on the commercialization of Bt brinjal is taken.

2504. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether an Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) has been constituted to work on the modalities of the proposed National Food Security Act (NFSA);

(b) if so, whether the said EGoM has since submitted its report to Government;

(c) whether Government is reluctant in implementing the National Food Security Act; and

(d) if so, the reasons therefor and strategies formulated to ensure food security to every citizen 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): Yes, Sir.

(c)to(d): Government is committed to enact the National Food Security Act (NFSA). Empowered Group of Ministers is examining various issues related to the proposed NFSA to firm up its provisions.

2492. SHRI MAHENDRA MOHAN
MOHSINA KIDWAI ALKA BALRAM KSHATRIYA ISHWAR SINGH
Will the Minister of CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that several drug manufactures in the country are selling their drugs at a very high price whereas the manufacturing cost is very less;

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

(c) whether National Pharmaceutical Pricing authority (NPPA) proposes to take any action in this regard against such drug manufacturers/ companies; and

(d) is so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS

(SHRI SRIKANT KUMAR JENA)

(a) to (d): Under the provisions of the Drugs (Price Control) Order, 1995 the prices of 74 bulk drugs and the formulation containing any of these scheduled drugs are controlled. NPPA / Government fixes or revises prices of scheduled drugs / formulations as per the provisions of the DPCO, 1995. No one can sell any scheduled drug / formulation at a price higher than the price fixed by NPPA / Government. The NPPA has fixed / revised the prices of Scheduled bulk drugs in 470 cases and 10253 formulations since its inception. Of these, the prices of 18 scheduled bulk drugs and derivatives and the prices of 1737 formulation packs have been fixed / revised by the NPPA during the period from 1st April,2009 to 30th November,2009. In respect of drugs – not covered under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 1995 i.e. non-scheduled drugs, manufacturers are at liberty to fix the prices by themselves without seeking the approval of Government / NPPA. Such prices are normally fixed depending on various factors like the cost of balk drugs used in the formulation, cost of excipients, cost of R&D, cost of utilities / packing material, sales promotion costs, trade margins, quality assurance cost, landed cost of imports etc. As a part of price monitoring activity, NPPA regularly examines the movement in prices of non-scheduled formulations. The monthly reports of ORG IMS and the information furnished by individual manufacturers are utilized for the purpose of monitoring prices of non-scheduled formulations. Wherever a price increase beyond 10% per annum w.e.f. 1.4.2007 (20% prior to 1.4.2007) Is noticed, the manufacturer is asked to bring down the price voluntarily failing which, subject to prescribed conditions action is initiated under paragraph 10(b) of the DPCO, 1995 for fixing the price of the formulation in public interest. This is an ongoing process. Based on monitoring of prices of non-scheduled formulation, NPPA has fixed prices in case of 27 formulation packs under para 10(b) and companies have reduced price voluntarily in case;ot64frmuioh packs. Thus in all, prices of 91 packs of non-scheduled drugs have got reduced as a result of the intervention of NPPA.

2339. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI

Will the Minister of CULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether in order to streamline the process of heritage conservation in the country, the ASI has put into practice a new approach following UNESCO guidelines;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether several monuments in the country are lying neglected for proper conservation in the absence of any clear cut responsibilities; and

(d) If so, the steps taken by the government to conserve monuments in proper way following UNESCO guidelines?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR PLANNING AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY)

(a) & (b) Yes, Sir; As per the requirement of UNESCO, all Member-States are obliged to prepare Site Management Plans (SMP) for their sites inscribed in the World Heritage List and submit them to UNESCO which periodically monitors their implementation. ASI too has taken action to prepare SMPs in regard to its inscribed sites.

(c) No, Sir;

(d) The monuments are conserved as per their individual SMPs that are prepared following the UNESCO guidelines.

2257. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI

Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is going to amend labour laws to allow more working hours, permit retrenchment and also allow industries to recruit more contract labour;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the relationship between labour and management is deteriorating day-by-day and the key labour issues and welfare measures are being continuously ignored by the management; and

(d) if so, the reasons therefor?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT

(SHRI HARISH RAWAT)

(a) & (b): No, Sir. At present there is no such proposal under consideration of the Government.

(c) & (d): No, Sir. It is not a fact that labour and management relationship are deteriorating day-by-day and key labour issues and welfare measures are ignored, though there have been a few incidents of violence in the recent past in the State sphere.

2207. SHRI N.K. SINGH
MOHSINA KIDWAI BALBIR K. PUNJ
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Border Security Force (BSF) has recently claimed that Pakistan is building bunkers and observation towers on the International Border with India;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the BSF had lodged any protest with the Pakistani Rangers on the construction of bunkers and towers; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the further reaction of the Pakistani rangers in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)

(a) & (b) : As per available information, Pakistan has constructed 19 bunkers and 39 O P Towers along the International Border during the current year.

(c ) & (d) : BSF has lodged strong protest notes with the counterpart. The matter has also been discussed with the Pakistan Rangers at various levels. However, Pakistan Rangers generally deny construction of new bunkers and claim that the existing defence structures are being renovated.

2160. PROF. ALKA BALRAM KSHATRIYA
JANARDHAN WAGHMARE MAHENDRA MOHAN MOHSINA KIDWAI
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Union Government has recently approved several FDI proposals;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether on the recommendations of the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) Government has also deferred or rejected proposals of FDI;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the benefit accrued to Government by approving FDI proposals?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY

(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) to (d): Yes Sir, in its last meeting held on 20.11.2009, the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) has recommended 17 proposals of Foreign Direct Investment amounting to Rs 4,551.05 crore approximately for approval, 3 proposals for deferment and 4 proposals for rejection. The recommendations of the FIPB were approved by the Government of India. Press Release of the cases considered by FIPB is available in the website of Ministry of Finance at http://finmin.nic.in/fipbweb/fipbwebreports/webpage.asp.

(e): Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) complements and supplements domestic investment. Domestic companies are benefited by FDI by way of capital, state-of-art technology and best managerial practices so that they have better access to foreign technology and get opportunity of integration into the global market.

2070. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government plans to introduce Bi-valent Oral Polio Vaccine (BOPV) to deal with the fresh outbreak of type 3 virus of Polio;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the special drives launched by Government to wipe out polio from the country have proved ineffective and the number of Polio cases are still rising ; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and to what extent the use of this new polio vaccine will be effective?
Answer
THE MINSITER OF STATE FOR HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI DINESH TRIVEDI)

(a) & (b) Yes. Based on the recommendations of India Expert Advisory Group (IEAG), the advisory body to the Government of India on Polio Eradication, it has been decided to administer Bivalent Oral Polio Vaccine (bOPV) in specific areas depending on the availability.

(c) & (d): As per the IEAG, virologic, genetic, operational and technical evidence show that India is on the right path for polio eradication. Although the number of polio cases has increased in 2009 as compared to 2008, the geographic scope of both poliovirus type1 and type3 has reduced further. Trials in India with bOPV have shown the vaccine to be more efficacious than the traditionally used trivalent oral polio vaccine (tOPV) and almost as good as the currently used monovalent oral polio vaccines mOPV1 and mOPV3 – which protect against the corresponding poliovirus type. As per the opinion of the IEAG the use of the bivalent OPV is expected to achieve interruption of transmission of polio type1 while maintaining control of polio type 3 and once this is achieved, the strategy will shift to interruption of polio type 3.

2067. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that India alone accounts for 21 per cent of the under five mortality of the world;

(b) if so, whether nearly one third of the total number of under five deaths worldwide are reported in India;

(c) if so, whether the mortality rate of children in the country is higher in comparison to the other under developed countries; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by Government to bring down the mortality rate of children in the country?
Answer
THE MINSITER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a) & (b) As per the Progress for Children Report, ‘A Statistical Review’ December 2007, India contributes 21 % of the global burden of child deaths.

(c) & (d) Under Five Mortality rate is 72 per 1000 live births in India. As per the State of the World’s Children UNICEF Report, 2009 India ranks as 49th out of 191 countries in the descending order of the Under Five Mortality Rate. The Reproductive and Child Health programme (RCH) II under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), comprehensively integrates interventions that improve child health and addresses factors contributing to morbidity and mortality. The key components of child health care which help reduce child morbidity and mortality are as follows: Integrated management of neonatal and childhood Illnesses (IMNCI) and Pre- Service Integrated management of neonatal and childhood Illnesses (IMNCI) Facility Based Integrated management of neonatal and childhood Illnesses (IMNCI). Early detection and appropriate management of Diarrhoea disease Early detection and appropriate management of Acute Respiratory Infections and other infections Navjaat Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (NSSK), a programme for Basic newborn care and resuscitation Infant and young child feeding Immunization Vitamin A supplementation and Iron and Folic Acid supplementation.

1965. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has recently asked the States to expedite completion of power projects and check slippages for the proper growth of power sector;

(b) if so, the details of the discussions held with the State Governments and the outcome thereof;

(c) whether the Planning Commission has also expressed concern at the tardy progress of reforms in power sector; and

(d) if so, the strategies formulated by Government to check slippages in the growth of power sector and to achieve the target of completion of power projects in a time bound period?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) & (b) : To check slippages and expedite completion of power projects for proper growth of the power sector, Conference of Power Ministers was held in June, 2009 and November, 2009. In the Power Ministers` Conference held in November, 2009 it has been resolved that close monitoring of the projects particularly those identified as critical by Central Electricity Authority (CEA) will be ensured by the State Governments and all efforts will be made for timely commissioning of the projects.

(c) : Planning Commission at this stage has not expressed its concern on the tardy progress of power reforms by the States.

(d) : Question does not arise.

239. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has made substantial changes in the definition of literacy with specific focus on achieving 80 per cent literacy target for women by the end of Eleventh Plan period;

(b) if so, the whether State Government have been given directions to focus on female literacy and achieve targets; and

(c) if so, the details of other assistance the Central Government proposes to provide to State Governments where female literacy is very low? ANSWER
Answer
MINISTER OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI KAPIL SIBAL)

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

STATEMENT REFFERED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 239 FOR 4.12.2009 ASKED BY SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI AND SHRIMATI SHOBHANA BHARTIA REGARDING FEMALE LITERACY

(a): While the definition of literacy has not been changed, the Saakshar Bharat scheme does focus on women’s literacy, especially in rural areas. 80% overall literacy is targeted by the end of the 11th Plan period.

(b): The States/UT Governments have been informed that under Saakshar Bharat 70 million non-literates are to be made literate, of which 60 million will be women.

(c): The programme cost of Saakshar Bharat will be shared between the Govt. of India and the State/UT Governments in the ratio of 75:25 except the States of the North Eastern Region (NER) where the sharing will be in the ratio of 90:10.

1649. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has spent several crores on various irrigation projects across the country in the past one decade or so but not a single hectare has been added to the total area irrigated by canals;

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

(c) whether Government has ascertained the exact cause of failure to add a single hectares of land for irrigation purposes in the last several years;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the strategies to be adopted to make the goods use of canals for irrigation purposes?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES

(SHRI VINCENT H. PALA)

(a) & (b) Expenditure incurred by States for major & medium irrigation projects during the IXth and Xth Plan is reported to be about Rs 1,33,000 crores with creation of additional irrigation potential of about 9.4 million hectare.

(c) & (d) Do not arise.

(e) With a view to fully utilize the created facilities, due emphasis has been laid on command area development and water management programme. Government of India provides assistance to States under the scheme “Command Area Development & Water Management”. Further, the extension, renovation and modernization (ERM) are also considered for support under Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) as per approved guidelines.

1517. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has launched a health insurance programme last year for weavers in the handloom industry;

(b) if so, whether an initial payment entitles a family of four to cover medical expenses totalling Rs. 15,000/-, but the weavers find it too little and the process to claiming the amount tedious and at times humiliating;

(c) if so, whether Government will enhance the insurance cover and make it more friendly for the weavers; and

(d) if not, the reasons therefor?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)

(a): The Government of India has been implementing the Health Insurance Scheme for the XI Plan from 2007-08 for providing health care facilities to the handloom weavers.

(b): Under the Health Insurance Scheme, the weaver’s family of four is entitled for all medical benefits worth Rs. 15,000/- on payment of his/her share of premium. The weavers can easily avail of cashless facility from the nearest OPD centres and IPD hospitals empanelled with the implementing agency i.e. ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Ltd. In the case of reimbursement, the insurance company i.e. ICICI Lombard shall reimburse expenses incurred by the weavers within the stipulated time and on submission of prescription and the vouchers for the medicines to the local coordinators. The process is simple and easily accessible in the clusters. Delay in the re-imbursement is mostly due to incomplete documents only.

(c): At present there is no proposal for enhancing the insurance cover under the Health Insurance Scheme.

(d): The enhancement in the insurance cover will involve a higher rate of total premium which will also result in increase in the weaver’s share of premium causing additional burden on the weavers and many weavers may not be able to pay the increased premium. The present Health Insurance Scheme covers all pre-existing as well as new diseases and a substantial provision has been kept for OPD. The annual limit per family is Rs. 15,000/- out of which OPD cover is Rs. 7,500/-.

1496. SHRIMATI SHOBHANA BHARTIA
MOHSINA KIDWAI
Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether his Ministry is looking at further changes in the Model Concession Agreement (MCA), the standard bidding document for roads in order to make it more investor friendly;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether changes in the MCA have been done in consultation with stakeholders; and

(d) if so, the extent to which the changes in the MCA are likely to speed up the process of awarding projects for express highways in the country?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI R.P.N. SINGH)

(a) to (d) The Government has approved the recommendations of the B.K. Chaturvedi Committee Report made after consultation with various stakeholders which include modifications to the existing Model Concession Agreement (MCA) and Model (Standard) bidding documents wiz Request for Qualification (RFQ) and Request for Proposal (RFP) as per the details enclosed as Annexure with a view to resolve procedural impediments to the implementation of National Highways Development Project and thereby expedite the process of awarding highways projects.

ANNEXURE
ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) TO (d) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1496 FOR ANSWER ON 2ND DECEMBER, 2009 ASKED BY SHRIMATI SHOBHANA BHARTIA AND SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI REGARDING ‘CHANGES IN THE MODEL CONCESSION AGREEMENT,.

1. The details of modifications to the existing MCA, RFQ, and RFP documents for the road sector, are as given below:-
a. Termination Provisions in Road Concession Agreements (Para 5.1.1). b. Exit Policy for (Developer) Concessionaire in MCA. (Para 5.1.2). c. Issue of Security to Lenders in MCA (Para 5.1.3). d. RFP Provisions – Forfeiture of bid security of bidders on account of non-responsiveness (Para 5.1.4). e. Eligibility of applicants/conflict of interest as per RFQ provisions-common shareholding levels (Para 5.1.5). f. Eligibility of applicants /conflict of interest as per RFQ provisions – Continuation of conflict of interest (Para 5.1.6). g. Associate – definition in RFQ thereof (Para 5.1.7). h. “Threshold technical capability” “Eligible projects” (TTC) in latest RFQ (Para 5.1.8). i. Increase in Equity Grant (VGF) to 40% by merging 20% equity and 20% O&M Grant into Equity Grant (Para 5.1.9). j. RFQ process – project wise pre-qualification be substituted with annual/periodic pre-qualification (Para 5.1.10). k. Premium provisions under RFP /MCA (Para 5.1.11).

2. The Government has also approved the following:-

(i) Further amendments to RFQ and RFP provisions, where necessary, will be carried out by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) on the basis of recommendations of the NHAI Board.

(ii) Setting up of an Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG) under the Chairmanship of Secretary, MORTH with representatives of DEA, Department of Expenditure, Planning Commission and Ministry of Law and Justice to consider issues relating to MCA. Where there is unanimity in the decision, the same will be then put up to the Minister, Road Transport & Highways for approval. Where there is no unanimity in the decision, the matter will be placed before the Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) comprising the Finance Minister, Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission.

1352. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA
Will the Minister of RURAL DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Central Government has decided to relax the programme guidelines for effective implementation of rural road schemes;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) Whether the guidelines issued under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) have been simplified to speed up road connectivity projects running at a low pace in Naxal hit areas;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the steps taken by Government to monitor construction of rural roads under the PMGSY?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI PRADEEP JAIN `ADITYA`)

(a): Yes, Sir.

(b): In order ensure effective implementation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) the Programme Guidelines have been amended to following extent:-

(i) With the use of annual State Schedule of Rates, while estimating the cost of road projects by the State Governments, it is expected that the tender value would approximate the estimated value. In case the value of tender received is above the estimated value that has been cleared by the Ministry, the difference (tender premium) pooled for the entire State for works cleared in a particular Phase/Batch will be borne by the State Government.

(ii) In order to provide connectivity in the blocks bordering international boundary (as identified by the Ministry of Home Affairs), the population of the habitations within a path distance of 10 km. may be treated as a cluster to determine the eligibility for connectivity under PMGSY. Earlier it was 1.5 km.

(iii) The funding liability of the Government of India for the bridges falling on PMGSY roads has been enhanced upto 50 m span from existing 25 m. Cost of causeways, irrespective of their length, is to be fully borne by the Government of India. For bridges of higher span, the cost is shared between the State Government and the Government of India proportionately.

(c): Yes, Sir.

(d): Keeping in view the constraints being faced in the naxal affected areas for execution of PMGSY projects, the Ministry has decided to relax the programme guidelines as under:-
i. Since it is not possible to carry out detailed survey and prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) because of continuing naxalite violence in naxal affected areas, Stage-I proposals may be prepared even on the basis of line estimates for these areas. ii. Time period for completion of works in naxal affected areas may be extended upto 18 months for new contracts keeping in view the security related interruptions. No price escalation would, however, be payable by the Central Government. iii. In view of the likelihood of non-availability of contractors, works may be departmentally executed in naxal affected areas by hiring machineries, procuring material and deployment of labourers on contract or piece-work as provided in the State Government`s PWD manual.

(e): The Programme is implemented by the agencies of the State Governments. Hence primary responsibility to monitor the implementation of the scheme is with the State Government. The Ministry of Rural Development monitors the implementation of the Programme through:-

(i) Performance Review Meetings (PRC)

(ii) Regional Review Meetings (PRC)

(iii) Meetings of the Empowered Committee

(iv) Field visits of the Officers of Ministry of Rural Development and National Rural Roads Development Agency (NRRDA, and

(v) Inspection by National Quality Monitors (NQMs).

1318. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI

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

(a) whether Government is aware that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued warning regarding outbreak of dengue in the country, particularly in Delhi;

(b) if so, what is the preparedness in this regard;

(c) whether Government is also aware that with existing infrastructure it is becoming difficult for the Delhi hospitals to cater to the needs of patients; and

(d) if so, how Government is going to tackle the problem of dengue and also of H1N1?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a):No.

(b):Does not arise. However, Government of India is monitoring the situation and preparedness of the State Government including Delhi for prevention and control of Dengue.

(c)& (d) : Government has adequate infrastructure to tackle the problem of dengue and HIN1. It has been further strengthened both at the level of Government of India and Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi. Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has taken following steps:

All hospitals to designate a special room for attending to fever cases in the Medical OPD (from 9.00 AM to 3.30 PM). All accident and emergency departments within the hospitals will attend to fever cases reporting in their emergency after 3.30 PM. In case of reporting of a suspected serious dengue patient, the patient will be stabilized before transportation to a tertiary hospital. One hospital in each district is designated for the facility for testing a dengue beyond OPD hours. Availability of platelet concentrate round the clock in four Regional Blood Transfusion Centers under Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi and all the regional blood transfusion centers under the State Blood Transfusion Council will be ensured.
For controlling HIN1, Government of India has taken the following actions:
Number of screening centres have been established inidentified health facilities, where patients are triaged (A, B, C category) according to established guidelines. Mild cases, in Category A are advised home care. Category B cases with persistent symptoms or those in high risk group but without complications are given drugs, not trusted and advised home care and follow up. Only Category C patients, those showing early warning signs of deterioration or complications, are hospitalized. All Central Government hospitals in Delhi (5) and selected Delhi Government hospitals (13) have been identified for managing swine flue. These hospitals are having dedicated isolation and critical care management facilities. 4 private hospitals have also been authorized for paid treatment. 5 private labs have also been empanelled for providing diagnostic facilities.

1204. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI

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

(a) whether Government are aware that a report, `Status of Children in India 2008`, reveals that a vast group of children living in difficult circumstances such as children of long-term patients, women prisoners children with special needs, riot, militancy and disaster-affected children, refugee and displaced children, and children in orphanages and homes do not receive early childhood education;

(b) if so, the efforts made by government in this regard; and

(c) the progress of existing schemes in this regard?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

(SHRIMATI KRISHNA TIRATH)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) & (c) Early Childhood Education (ECE) is one of the services provided under the Ministry of Women and Child Development`s, Integrated Child Development Services Scheme to children of 3-6 yeas. The scheme has been universalized to cover all habitations in the country which includes children in difficult circumstances also. Presently about 3.32 crore children are the beneficiaries of the ECE services under the scheme.

The Rajiv Gandhi National Creche Scheme of this Ministry also provides for pre- school education for children between 3-6 years of age, in the crèches. As on date Ministry has sanctioned 31718 creches with capacity of 25 children each.

The newly launched Integrated Child Protection Scheme provides for maintaining minimum standards of care in child care institutions for children in need of care and protection, including children in difficult circumstances. The minimum standards of care include age appropriate education. This scheme is implemented from the current financial year 2009-10.

1196. SHRI BRIJ BHUSHAN TIWARI
MOHSINA KIDWAI
Will the Minister of WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) : Whether Government are aware that the country has the largest number of stunted children and one of the highest number of underweight children below the age of five in the world, according to a latest UNICEF report;

(b) : if so, whether Government have evaluated its programmes and schemes launched for the benefit of children;

(c) : the reasons for poor progress in this regard as India lags for behind even developing countries in case of children`s health and nutrition; and

(d) : the steps Government are going to take in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

(SHRIMATI KRISHNA TIRATH)

(a) Yes sir, keeping in view India`s large population base and level of undernutrition in the country.

(b) The information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House.

(c) The problem of malnutrition is multi-dimensional and inter-generational in nature, the determinants of which include household food insecurity, illiteracy and lack of awareness especially in women, poor access to health services, non-availability of safe drinking water, sanitation and environment conditions and adequate purchasing power etc. Besides early age at marriage of girls, teenage pregnancies resulting in low birth weight of the newborns, poor breastfeeding practices, poor complementary feeding practices, ignorance about nutritional needs of infants and young children and repeated infections further aggravate the malnutrition amongst children. Tackling malnutrition amongst children requires an integrated approach. Prevention of early marriage, appropriate spacing in pregnancy, better Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices including exclusive breast feeding, age appropriate complementary feeding, better hygienic conditions, immunization, Vitamin A supplementation, deworming, Oral Rehydration, Zinc supplementation during diarrhea, timely and quality feeding of acute malnutrition condition, improved nutrition for adolescent girls, prevention of anemia, improved food and nutrient intake during pregnancy and lactation, better information and awareness about nutritional needs & behaviors and prevention and control of diseases would need to be promoted for mitigating the impact of malnutrition. All these need to be addressed n a holistic manner by effective intersectoral coordination, convergence and improved systems of delivery of services under different schemes and programmes of central and state governments.

(d) The Ministry of Women & Child Development is addressing the problem of malnutrition among children below 6 years through the ICDS in all States/UTs. The scheme, inter-alia, provides a component of Supplementary Nutrition which is primarily designed to bridge the gap between the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) and the Average Daily Intake (ADI). The Government has also enhanced the financial as well as nutritional norms for different categories of beneficiaries as follows:

Category Revised Rates (Per beneficiary per day) Revised Nutritional Norms

Calories Protein
(Kcal) (g)

(i) Children (6 months to 72
months) Rs.4.00 500 12-15

(ii) Severely malnourished
children (6 months-72
months) Rs.6.00 800 20-25

(iii) Pregnant women and
Nursing mothers Rs.5.00 600 18-20

However, malnutrition is a multifaceted and multi sectoral problem requiring coordinated action by various Ministries. The schemes being implemented by different Ministries aimed at improving the nutritional status of children have been listed in Annex-I.

ANNEXURE-I
STATEMENT REFERRED TO THE REPLY TO PART D OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.1196 FOR 30.11.09 SCHEMES AND PROGRAMMES TO IMPROVE THE CHILD HEALTH AND NUTRITION:

(i) Nutrition Programme for Adolescent Girls in 51 districts to provide free food grains to undernourished adolescent girls by Ministry of Women and Child Development.

(ii) To promote appropriate infant and young child feeding practices, the National Guidelines on Infant and Young Child Feeding have been developed and disseminated all over the country. Increased emphasis is given to: a. Initiation of breastfeeding immediately after birth, preferably within one hour. b. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months c. Implementing the Infant Milk Substitute (IMS) Act.

(iii) Nutrition and Health Education: Food and Nutrition Board of the Ministry of Women & Child Development is engaged in advocacy, trainings and generating awareness on important nutrition issues among different level of functionaries and the masses.

(iv) National Programme for Nutritional Support to Primary Education (Mid Day Meal Scheme) by the Department of School Elementary Education & Literacy;

(v) Reproductive & Child Health Programme under the National Rural Health Mission being implemented by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has schemes for prevention of micronutrient malnutrition as below: ? Iron and Folic acid supplementation for children, adolescents, pregnant and lactating women. ? Vitamin-A supplementation for children upto 5 years. ? National Iodine Deficiency Control Programme.

(vi) Targeted Public Distribution System, Antodaya Anna Yojna and Annapurna Scheme by the Department of Food & Consumer Affairs;

(vii) Other measures include; . Improving agricultural and horticulture produce . Improving the purchasing power of the people though various income generating scheme.

131. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government’s initiatives for mitigating the hardships of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have not really percolated down to the ground level;

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

(c) whether Government has taken any fresh steps to protect the small and medium enterprises which are hard hit by the current economic slowdown; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES

(SHRI DINSHA PATEL)

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

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) IN RESPECT OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.131 FOR ANSWER ON 27.11.2009

(a) to (d): Keeping in view the impact of global economic slowdown on micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Government, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Public Sector Banks have taken several measures for protecting and providing a stimulus to the MSMEs which, inter alia, include:
(i) extending the loan limit under Credit Guarantee Scheme from Rs.50 lakh to Rs.1 crore with a guarantee cover of 50 per cent;
(ii) increasing the guarantee cover under Credit Guarantee Scheme from 80 per cent to 85 per cent for credit facility up to Rs.5 lakh;
(iii) interest subvention of 2 per cent in pre and post-shipment export credit to small and medium enterprises (SME) sector;
(iv) refinance limit of Rs.7,000 crore to Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) for incremental on-lending to the micro and small enterprises (MSE) sector;
(v) grant of need-based ad hoc working capital demand loans up to 20 per cent of the existing fund-based limits; and
(vi) reduction in interest rates for borrowing by micro enterprises by 1 per cent and in respect of SMEs by 0.5 per cent. These policy measures/initiatives and thrust on augmenting credit delivery to the sector have resulted in increasing the outstanding credit to micro and small enterprises (MSE) sector from the Public Sector Banks from Rs. 1,51,137 crore as at the end of March 2008 to Rs. 1,91,307 crore as at the end of March 2009 (latest available). For the promotion and development of MSMEs and to enhance their competitiveness, the Government is laying thrust on the implementation of ongoing schemes/programmes, which include National Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme, Credit Guarantee Scheme, Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme, Performance and Credit Rating Scheme, Cluster Development Programme, Prime Minister’s Employment Generation programme and Market Development Assistance Scheme. In addition, a special fund of Rs.4,000 crore has been provided to SIDBI to incentivise Banks and State Financial Corporations (SFCs) to lend to MSEs and to facilitate the flow of credit at reasonable rates to the sector. Further, a High Level Task Force under the chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister has been constituted to address the issues of MSME sector.

106. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government had called a meeting of heads of all telecom service providers recently;

(b) if so, the details of the issues discussed in the meeting and the outcome thereof;

(c) whether the telecom service providers are not following the directives/guidelines of Government issued from time to time; and

(d) if so, the facts thereof and the further steps Government proposes to take in this regard?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

(SHRI A. RAJA)

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

STATEMENT TO BE LAID ON THE TABLE OF THE RAJYA SABHA IN RESPECT OF PARTS (a) TO (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 106 FOR 26TH NOVEMBER, 2009 REGARDING “MEETING OF TELECOM SERVICE PROVIDERS”.

(a) & (b) Yes, Sir. Meetings were held with Access Service Licensees, National Long Distance Service Licensees, International Long Distance Service Licensees, Internet Service Providers in the first week of November, 2009. Suggestions of the service providers were invited for the various measures which inter-alia include:

(i) Steps to increase tele-density, specifically rural tele-density.

(ii) Measures for more effective utilization of Universal Service Obligation (USO) Fund.

(iii) Measures to be taken for faster Internet and Broadband coverage especially in rural areas.

(iv) Incentives for lower tariff for expansion of telecom services.

(c) & (d) While various service providers, generally, follow the directives/ guidelines/ terms and conditions of the licence, however necessary action is taken as per the provisions of the licences granted to various service providers under section 4 of the Indian Telegraph Act in case of any non-compliance.

100. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that a large number of unskilled and semi-skilled workers from China are working in various sectors in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) on what grounds, Government has granted visas to Chinese workers to work in various fields/sectors in India;

(d) whether the permission to Chinese workers to work in India is posing serious security concern; and

(e) if so, the reaction of Government in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)

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

STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.100 FOR 25.11.2009 REGARDING “GRANT OF VISA TO WORKERS FROM CHINA”

(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. In the present liberalized economic environment Indian companies/organisations are awarding work for execution of projects/contracts to foreign companies, including Chinese companies. This has resulted in inflow of foreign nationals, including Chinese nationals, for execution of projects/contracts in several sectors e.g. steel, power, etc. The project team executing such projects/contracts includes some unskilled and semi-skilled workers. Details of foreign nationals, including Chinese nationals, working in various sectors in the country are not centrally maintained.

(c): Employment/ Business Visas have been granted by the Indian Missions abroad to foreign nationals, including Chinese nationals, for executing projects/contracts in India on the basis of the documentation submitted by the visa applicant/foreign company regarding the award of the project/contract to the foreign company.

(d) & (e): It has come to the notice of the Government that a number of foreign nationals, including Chinese nationals, coming for execution of projects/contracts in India have come on Business Visa instead of the Employment Visa. The matter has, therefore, been reviewed by the Government and it has been decided that henceforth Business Visa will be issued only to banafide businessmen who want to visit India to establish an industrial/business venture or to explore possibilities to set up industrial/business venture in India or who want to purchase/sell industrial products or commercial products or consumer durables etc. It has also been decided that all foreign nationals coming for execution of projects/contracts in India will have to come only on an Employment Visa and that such visa will be granted only to skilled and qualified professionals appointed at senior level, and will not be granted for jobs for which a large number of qualified Indians are available. Suitable instructions/guidelines have been issued to the Indian Missions abroad to effectively regulate Employment and Business Visa regimes and ensure that these are issued strictly as per prescribed norms. Persons who are already in India had been directed to exit by 31.10.2009 (extendable for a short period in respect of persons engaged in some strategic/sensitive projects) and, where permissible, seek re-entry on appropriate visa.

71. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has drawn the attention of the countries supplying high quality ink and paper used for printing currency notes that their products are being diverted to anti-Indian forces, who are printing and circulating fake Indian currency notes to destabilise the Indian economy;

(b) if so, the reactions of the countries whom Government has approached;

(c) Whether any new fool-proof technology would be enforced to check fake currency notes; and

(d) if so, the details thereof ?
Answer
FINANCE MINISTER (SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)

(a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.
Statement referred toin reply to parts (a) to (d) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 71 regarding Division of ink and paper used for currency notes raised by Shrimati Mohsina Kidwai and Shri N.K. Singh for reply on November 24, 2009/

(a) & (b): The fake Indian currency notes detected by banks and seized by the law enforcing agencies have not made use of security paper and ink of the same specifications, as used in the Indian bank notes. Therefore, taking up the issue with countries, from where the ink and paper are procured, does not arise.

(c) & (d): The security features of the Indian bank notes are upgraded from time to time witha view to check counterfeiting. Last series of bank notes with upgraded security features was issued in 2005. New series of banknotes with further upgraded security feature is scheduled to be issued in 2011.

346. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
MAHENDRA MOHAN JANARDHAN WAGHMARE
Will the Minister of INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Central Government has recently worked out plans to counter the propaganda from neighboring countries in the border areas of North East and Jammu and Kashmir;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the range of transmitters already setup in the border areas would be enhanced to counter the propaganda; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING

(SHRI C. M. JATUA)

(a) & (b) : Yes, Sir. With the view to counter subversive and malicious anti-India propaganda by the neighbouring countries, there are several programmes mounted both in All India Radio and Doordarshan.

(c) & (d) : Strengthening of the coverage of All India Radio and DD networks is an ongoing process. Proposals for setting up of new High Power/Low Power AIR/DD transmitters, FM transmitters, in the border areas are considered and approved by the Government as per the requirement from time to time. Jammu and Kashmir Special Package Phase-II and North East Special Package Phase-II have been approved in September 2007 and May 2006 respectively for expansion of Doordarshan and All India Radio services.

Multi channel AIR and TV coverage through Doordarshan’s free-to-air DTH service “DD Direct Plus” has been provided in the entire country. It is possible to receive DTH signals anywhere in the country, including NE States and J&K, with the help of small sized dish receive units.

344. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI

Will the Minister of FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether conference of State Ministers’ of Food Processing Industries was organized at New Delhi recently;

(b) if so, the details of discussions held in the conference;

(c) whether there is a need to formulate a National Food Processing Policy to spell out the vision for rapid growth; and

(d) if so, by when a National Food Processing Policy is likely to be announced?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES

( SHRI SUBODH KANT SAHAI )

(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. The 1st Conference of State Food Processing Ministers was organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries on 06.10.2009 at New Delhi. A number of issues relating to the development of the sector were discussed. Among the issues that were discussed include development of food processing infrastructure, formulation of food processing policies, capacity building, financing for the sector, food safety & quality and institutional strengthening.

(c) & (d): The need for having an appropriate food processing policy at the national and state levels was highlighted during the above Conference. No formal timeframe has been decided on the formulation of a national food processing policy.

189. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
SHOBHANA BHARTIA N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether import of pulses has surged during the first six months of the current fiscal year;

(b) if so, the quantum of pulses imported by Government and private owned trading agencies during the first six months of the current fiscal year;

(c) the cost at which such pulses were imported and under what conditionalties;

(d) whether import of pulses have any impact on the prices of pulses in the markets in the country; and

(e) if so, the details 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), (b) and (c): As per the data provided by DGCIS, during April 2009- September 2009, 12.90 lakh tonnes of pulses valued at Rs.3324.97 Crore was imported. The quantum of pulses imported by the 4 PSUs viz. NAFED, MMTC, STC and PEC was about 3.7 lakh tonnes. The 4 PSUs are authorized by the Government to import pulses under the 15% reimbursement of subsidy scheme.

(d) and (e) The details of the domestic wholesale prices of pulses in Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai are given in Annexure I.

159. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI

Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that due to poor monsoon, the production of kharif crop is likely to come down;

(b) if so, the estimates of kharif production in the country;

(c) the areas of North India that have been affected due to poor monsoon; and

(d) what has been done by Government to augment timely supply of rabi inputs to poor farmers, particularly farmers of Bundelkhand region in the country?
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): The poor monsoon in the Kharif season has impacted Kharif sown area and also production. As per the 1st advance Estimates released on 3rd November, 2009, production of Kharif foodgrains in the country is estimated at 96.63 million tonnes as compared to 117.70 million tonnes during 2008-09. The production of Kharif oilseeds is also lower at 15.23 million tonnes against 17.88 million tonnes last year.

(c): Major States in North India which experienced deficient monsoon include Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and also Bihar.

(d): With a view to augment timely supply of rabi inputs to farmers, National Conference on Rabi Campaign 2009-10 was organized wherein States specific problems on availability of fertilizers, seeds etc. were addressed. Early rabi planning for capitalizing the soil moisture of late rains (September end to 1st week of October) was facilitated by the Ministry of extending expert support to States. Planning for additional areas under Boro/summer rice, wheat, pulses and coarse cereals for increased production in rabi is finalized. Measures for tie-up for input supply, advance financial allocation and releases to the States for timely completion of Rabi operation are ensured through conferences and interactions with the States including Uttar Pradesh.

36. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
MAHENDRA MOHAN NARESH GUJRAL
Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has specific information that Taliban terrorists executed a suicide car bomb attack on the Indian embassy in Kabul on 8th October, 2009 killing several persons;

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

(c) whether about 15 months ago, a similar car bomb attack was executed at the Indian embassy in Afghanistan;

(d) if so, whether Government of Afghanistan is not providing adequate safety and security to Indian embassy in Afghanistan; and

(e) if so, the strategies to be adopted to provide fool-proof security to Indian missions in Afghanistan?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINSTRYT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SMT. PRENEET KAUR)

(a) & (b) Government has no specific information that the suicide car bomb attack on the Indian Embassy in Kabul on 8th October, 2009 was carried out by Taliban. However a Taliban website claimed responsibility for the attack. The attack resulted in 18 casualties and 83 persons were injured. No Indians lost their lives. However, 2 ITBP personnel sustained minor shrapnel injuries.

(c) On July 7, 2008 a suicide bomber detonated his Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) at the main gate of the Embassy of India in Kabul in which 59 persons were killed including four Indian officials and a local driver. More than 150 persons, including 5 ITBP personnel were seriously injured in the incident.

(d) The Afghan Government has put in place appropriate safety and security measures for the protection of the Indian Embassy and its personnel.

(e) All necessary precautions are being taken to provide the best possible security to the Indian Mission and its four Consulates in Afghanistan, in cooperation with the Afghan National Security Forces.

15. SHRIMATI MOHSINA KIDWAI
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Supreme Court has recently expressed concern over the shortage of water in the country and directed the Union and State Governments to take short term measures to solve the problem on a war footing;

(b) if so, whether on the directions of the Supreme Court, Government has taken any steps in this regard;

(c) if so, details thereof;

(d) whether the Union Government, in discussion with the State Governments, has formulated any strategies to address the shortage of water; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY; MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF EARTH SCIENCES; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS; AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)

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

STATEMENT REFERRED IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO 15 TO BE ANSWERED ON 19-11-2009 REGARDING ‘WATER SHORTAGE’

(a) & (b): Yes, sir.

(c) The Hon’ble Supreme Court, through an order issued on 28th April, 2009, directed the Central government to constitute a committee, with Secretary, Union Ministry of Science and Technology as Chairman and Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources as a Member and other technical experts, nominated by Chairman, for finding out research based technological solutions for addressing the problem of water shortage in the country. In pursuance of this directive, the Government has constituted a Technical Expert Committee with a provision of consultation with State Governments.

(d) Yes, sir.

(e) A ‘Plan Document’, detailing various water challenges, methodology for implementation of activities, time schedule, etc., has been drawn to find out technological solutions to address the problem of water shortage in the country. As stated in this Document, the programme includes demonstration and proving of research based technological solutions, under real field conditions in collaboration with State Governments, for various water challenges at different locations across the country.