Questions asked by Mr. Tariq Anwar during Rajya Sabha session November – December 2009

No. of questions found: 57

3483. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR
T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
Will the Minister of LAW & JUSTICE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Chief Justice` of India has expressed serious concern over cross border terrorism and suggested that such attacks should be treated as an offence recognized under the International Criminal Law; as `Crime Against Humanity` and tried before a supra-national body such as the International Criminal Court;

(b) if so, whether his suggestions have been seriously considered by Government; and

(c) if so, by when they are likely to be implemented?
Answer
MINISTER OF LAW AND JUSTICE

(DR. M.VEERAPPA MOILY)

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

3439. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) the number of existing lakes in the country;

(b) whether it is a fact that due to lack of conservation, these lakes have dried up in the recent past; and

(c) the steps Government are taking to conserve these lakes?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE (I/C) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) to (c) The Ministry is implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) for conservation and management of polluted and degraded lakes in urban and semi-urban areas of the country. Under the Scheme, the Ministry has so far, sanctioned projects for conservation of 58 lakes identified by the states, at a cost of Rs.883.94 crore.

The proposals for new lakes are considered for sanction subject to their admissibility as per NLCP guidelines, pollution status, prioritization and availability of funds under the Plan. This Ministry has not received any report from the States regarding drying of lakes in the recent past.

447. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of the projects of Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) in various districts of Bihar indicating the village electrification infrastructure and the number of households benefited under this scheme;

(b) the number of Below Poverty Line/Scheduled Caste houses proposed to be electrified under this scheme during the current year;

(c) the funds allocated to the State under this scheme during the previous and the current year;

(d) whether funds have been fully utilized by the State Government; and

(e) if not, the reasons therefor?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF POWER

(SHRI SUSHILKUMAR SHINDE)

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

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF STARRED QUESTION NO. 447 TO BE ANSWERED IN THE RAJYA SABHA ON 21.12.2009 REGARDING IMPLEMENTATION OF RGGVY IN BIHAR.

(a) : Under Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY), 43 Projects for 38 districts covering 23,211 un/de-electrified villages and 27.62 lakh Below Poverty Line (BPL) households have been sanctioned at an estimated cost of Rs.2975.89 crores for the State of Bihar. Rs.2486.44 crores have been released to the State of Bihar upto 30.11.2009. Cumulatively, 17,520 unelectrified villages have been electrified and 8.53 lakh BPL connections have been released upto 30.11.2009. The District-wise coverage and achievement of un/de-electrified villages and release of BPL connections for the sanctioned projects under RGGVY in Bihar, is at Annex.

(b) : 3,10,200 BPL connections including Scheduled Caste BPL households are proposed to be released during the year 2009-10 under the sanctioned projects of RGGVY in Bihar. During current year, as on 30.11.2009, electricity connections to 3,10,995 BPL households have been released.

(c) to (e) : There is no upfront allocation of funds for any State including Bihar under RGGVY. The funds are released in installments based on the utilization of previous installments. Rs.695.90 crore during 2008-09 and Rs.192.80 crore during 2009-10 (till 30.11.2009) have been disbursed in Bihar.

3329. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that large number of adults are uneducated in the country;

(b) if so, the details of uneducated adults, State-wise;

(c) whether any special programme has been launched to provide education to adult; and

(d) if so, the details thereof? ANSWER
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) & (b): A statement indicating the State-wise number of non-literate is annexed.

(c) & (d): Yes, sir. Saakshar Bharat, a new variant of National Literacy Mission has been launched with specific objective of improving adult literacy. The thrust of the Mission is on access, equity, quality and good governance. Since it aims to bridge the gender gap and reduce regional and social disparities, the focus of the Mission will be on women and disadvantaged groups, especially SCs, STs and minorities in rural areas. Basic literacy, post literacy and continuing education will form a continuum rather than sequential segments. Besides the volunteer based mass education approach, provision has been made for alternate approaches to adult education. Lok Shiksha Kendras (Adult Education Centres) in Gram Panchayats will coordinate all programmes within their territorial jurisdiction.

3164. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR
T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
Will the Minister of PLANNING be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission has stressed for going ahead with the pending financial sector reforms as the liberalisation measures would not install country’s growth process and anticipated rise in foreign investment flows would be good for the economy;

(b) whether he expressed concern over the current food prices led inflation which would ease in coming months with the arrival of rabi crops;

(c) whether Government has seriously considered increase in food prices which has affected common man; and

(d) if so, the steps his Ministry has taken to check these and by what time there would be a reduction in food prices?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY)

(a) & (b): The financial sector reforms and inflation are subjects which fall in the domain of the Ministry of Finance. The Planning Commission has not sent any formal proposal to the Ministry of Finance in this regard.

(c) & (d): The Government is concerned about the increase in food prices and has taken several measures to moderate the rise in prices of essential commodities. These include the measures to augment availability of cereals by increasing the Minimum Support Price

(MSP) and procurement of wheat for additional allocation under Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS). The other measures include ban on export of wheat and rice, zero import duties on essential food items like sugar, rice, wheat, pulses, edible oils

(crude) and maize, permitting the public sector undertakings to import pulses etc. National Food Security Mission (NFSM) is being implemented in 312 identified districts of 17 States from Rabi 2007-08 aiming at achieving an additional production of 20 million tonnes of foodgrains, comprising 10 million tonnes of rice, 8 million tones of wheat and 2 million tonnes of pulses by the end of Eleventh Plan (20011-12).

3083. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of ATOMIC ENERGY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the world’s major players in nuclear energy visited Delhi for a major International Conference in September, 2009;

(b) whether the meeting discussed the peaceful use of atomic energy after a gap of over three decades;

(c) whether the Prime Minister inaugurated the three-day conference; and

(d) if so, the main points discussed and decision arrived at?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND EARTH SCIENCES (INDEPENDENT CHARGES), PMO, PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS.

(SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN):

(a) Yes, Sir. Major players from different parts of the world have participated in the three day International Conference on Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy held in Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi during September 29 – October 1, 2009.

(b) Yes, Sir. The First U.N. International Conference on Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy was organized in Geneva in 1955 which was presided over by Dr. Homi J. Bhabha. The present conference was organized to commemorate the Birth Centenary Year of Dr. Homi J. Bhabha. In between the first Conference and the present one, three Conferences on this subject were held in 1957, 1959 and 1971.

(c) Yes, Sir.

(d) The Conference focused on various important areas including: Achieving rapid growth in nuclear power production; Reaching to the general public the benefits of radiation applications in agriculture, medical sciences, industry and water management; and Developing new concepts and technologies for enhancing the share of nuclear power globally without compromising on the environmental issues.

2938. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR
T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether India and Russia have agreed and signed trade targeted to reach at $20 billion by 2015;

(b) whether both sides call for diversification of trade into high technology areas;

(c) whether India is one of very few countries with whom Russian trade is growing rather than declining; and

(d) if so, the details of decisions taken, strategy adopted to improve trade between two countries?
Answer
MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

( SHRI ANAND SHARMA)

a) to d): The bilateral trade between India and Russia has been growing. During the 15th session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation held in Moscow on 21st October 2009, both the countries took note of the positive trends in bilateral trade and inter-alia, it was decided to achieve a bilateral trade target of US$ 20 billion by 2015. Both sides felt that this trade target could be achieved through diversification of the trade basket; focus on priority sectors such as energy, IT and Pharmaceuticals etc; and through intensification of business-to-business contacts.

2889. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
TARIQ ANWAR
Will the Minister of PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether with a view to strengthen security of India’s offshore oil and gas installations and prevent sabotage and terrorist attacks on them, Government is planning to extend ‘safety zone’ around the installations to five nautical miles from the existing 500 metres;

(b) whether a draft proposal of Home Ministry on India’s security incorporates this proposal for declaring larger area around offshore installations a ‘no vessel zone’; and

(c) if so, whether Cabinet has approved the proposal and by what time it is to be implemented?
Answer
Minister of State in the Ministry of PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS

(SHRI JITIN PRASADA)

(a) The need to extend the safety zone around petroleum installations beyond 500 meters is under discussion with the concerned authorities (Coast Guard, Navy, OISD, ODAG etc.)

(b) No, Madam. There is no such proposal initiated by Ministry of Home Affairs.

(c) In view of the above, does not arise.

2880. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the dispute between Reliance Industries Ltd., and Reliance Natural Resources Ltd., is creating problems in the extraction of gas in Krishna-Godavari basin;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) what is the role of Government in this dispute?
Answer
Minister of State in the Ministry of PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS

(SHRI JITIN PRASADA)

(a) to (c) No, Sir. The extraction of gas and supply to consumers of gas is being done in accordance with the policies of the Government. However, the Petroleum Ministry has filed a Writ Petition in the Supreme Court against the Reliance Natural Resources Limited (RNRL) & Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) to protect interest of the Government and public at large as the implication of Bombay High Court judgment has the potential of giving effect to the private MOU between the two companies and thereby ignoring the gas utilization policy and pricing policy of the Government which Government has approved in terms of its rights and obligation under the Production Sharing Contract (PSC).

2745. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether he has called on the States and UTs to expedite efforts to achieve goal of power for all;

(b) if so, the decisions taken during the conference of Ministers of Power and whether it has been decided to call such a meeting twice a year; and

(c) if so, what were the points discussed and to what extent measures have been taken to implement decisions taken at the Conference?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

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

(i) Capacity Addition;

(ii) Open Access;

(iii) Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana; and

(iv) Re-structured APDRP.
After detailed discussion, a Resolution was adopted at the end of the conference incorporating the steps to be taken to expedite progress in Capacity Addition and facilitate implementation of RGGVY, R-APDRP and Open Access.

2619. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of COAL be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has decided to appoint a coal regulator;

(b) if so, the likely function of the regulator; and

(c) how it would be helpful in coal mining?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE (IC) IN THE MINISTRY OF COAL AND THE MINISTER OF STATE (IC) IN THE MINISTRY OF STATISTICS AND PROGRAMME IMPLEMENTATION

(SHRI SRIPRAKASH JAISWAL)

(a) : The Energy Coordination Committee, headed by the Prime Minister, decided, in its 6th meeting, that the Planning Commission should prepare a paper on appointment of an independent regulator for coal sector. The Planning Commission, in turn, advised the Ministry of Coal to engage a consultant to carry out a study in the matter and to prepare a draft Bill. Accordingly, a draft Bill is being finalized for consideration of the Government for appointment of a regulatory body for coal sector.

(b) : The likely functions of the coal regulator may include determination of grades and quality of coal, pricing of coal, authorizing of mining, monitoring, enforcement and compliance of the specified terms and condition of authorization, monitoring and enforcement of closure of mines, setting and enforcement of standards of performance etc.

(c) : Appointment of an independent regulator for coal sector would result in more optimal development and conservation of coal resources, more effective regulation, adoption of best mining practices, rational pricing, better distribution, evolution of a more competitive market etc. In addition, the proposed regulatory authority shall also advise the Government on formulation of policies in coal sector including allotment or earmarking of coal block(s) for any purpose through any mode and coal linkage, development of various mining technologies, beneficiation methods to improve mining and conservation of coal resources etc.

2513. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that prices of essential items have increased very high in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether it is also a fact that Government has decided to include more items in the category of essential items;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the steps Government is taking to provide these items at cheaper rate?
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): During the last four months, the All India average wholesale prices has increased in the case of Sugar by 26%, Pulses such as Tur dal by 23.02%, Gram by 3.31% respectively.

(c) & (d): The Government had decided to include Cotton Seed as an essential commodity in the Schedule to the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.

(e) : The Government has taken steps to protect poor sections of society through Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) and Antodaya Anna Yojna (AAY). Under the TPDS, wheat, rice, coarse grains and kerosene are allocated to State Governments/UTs for distribution through the Fair Price Shops. The Central Issue Price for rice and wheat has not been revised since 2002. For wheat it remains at Rs 4.15 per kg for BPL and Rs 2 per kg for AAY. For rice, it is Rs 5.65 per kg for BPL and Rs 3 per kg for AAY.Pulses are distributed to the State Governments under the PDS @ Rs.10 per kg subsidy scheme. In view of the rise in prices of essential commodities witnessed during the recent past, Government has allocated imported edible oils to State/UT Governments .States are free to distribute the oil through whatever outlets they decide on.

2502. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR
T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-

(a) whether following Supreme Court ruling on levy sugar pricing, Government has decided to fork out over Rs. 2,300 crores to mill-owners on account of depressed payments for current sugar year (October 2008 to September, 2009);

(b) whether levied sugar is currently 10 per cent of total output which Government takes away from mills for supplying to the PDS;

(c) whether as per Government’s sugarcane control order, levy sugar pricing would be based on the statutory minimum price; and

(d) if so, to what extent sugar mills have agreed to this?
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 decision has been taken by the Central Government.

(b): No, Sir. The levy obligation on sugar factories has been increased from 10% to 20% for 2009-10 sugar season. Hence, the current levy obligation on sugar factories is 20%.

(c): The Central Government has issued an Ordinance under the title ‘The Essential Commodities (Amendment and Validation) Ordinance, 2009’ (No.9 of 2009) on 21.10.2009 to amend the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and to make provisions for validation of certain orders issued by the Central Government determining the price of levy sugar and actions taken under those orders and for matters connected therewith. The said Ordinance provides for determination of levy sugar prices up to 2008-09 sugar season by taking into account Statutory Minimum Price of sugarcane. The Ordinance also provides that for sugar season 2009-10 which has started on 1.10.2009 and in future, levy sugar price will be determined taking into account, inter-alia, the ‘Fair and Remunerative Price’ of sugarcane. Further, the Central Government has introduced a Bill on 4.12.2009 in the Lok Sabha under the title ‘The Essential Commodities (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2009’ to replace the said Ordinance by an Act of Parliament.

(d): The levy sugar price is fixed as per statutory provisions of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. As such, there is no question of sugar mills having to agree to the Statutory Provisions of the Act.

v

2436. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that a pipeline has collapsed in Thane in Mumbai recently;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the number of persons died and injured in this accident; and

(d) the action Government has taken against the responsible officials?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR URBAN DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI SAUGATA ROY)

(a) to (d): Yes, Sir. On 23rd October 2009, a 43m long girder weighing approximately 125 MT launched across six Railway Tracks of Central Railways at km. 31/13-14 toppled from its position at about 10.35 – 10.45 AM. Girder fell on abutting Structural Steel Bridge carrying 500 mm dia- water supply pipeline. This led to collapse of structural steel bridge also. A local train approaching the place at the time collided with the fallen structures resulting in death of two persons and serious injuries to three others. An enquiry has been instituted in the matter by the Commissioner of Railway Safety.

2184. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR
T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether continuing Chinese military build up and its repercussion on Indo-China border were discussed during top Indian leaders at Commanders’ Conference in October, 2009;

(b) if so, whether Armed Forces also discussed rapid pace of infrastructure development on Chinese side of border;

(c) whether this Conference was also attended by PM, Defence Minister, National Security Adviser;

(d) if so, the outcome of the discussions held and decisions taken; and

(e) whether in the Conference India’s border in Ladakh, Arunachal sector in the wake of Chinese belligerence and delay in armament acquisition for Indian army, were main topics discussed?
Answer
(SHRI A.K. ANTONY)

MINISTER OF DEFENCE

(a) to (e): The Combined Commanders’ Conference of the three services was held on 20th October, 2009. The Prime Minister, Defence Minister and National Security Adviser attended the Conference. Many important issues were discussed in the meeting. In view of the sensitiveness of the matter, the details cannot be disclosed on the floor of the House.

2182. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Indian exports continue to be in the negative territory for the tenth consecutive month;

(b) if so, the reasons therefor; and

(c) the steps Government is taking to increase the exports in future?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) to (c): India’s merchandise exports from October 2008 to October 2009 are given in Annexure-I. Decline in India’s merchandise exports since October 2008 can be attributed significantly to shrinkage of demand in developed countries due to global economic slowdown, and the reduced international prices of commodities. Government and RBI closely monitor the economic developments in the country and internationally on continuous basis and need based measures are taken, from time to time, keeping in view, the financial implications. To counter the negative fall out of the global slowdown on the Indian economy, the Government / RBI responded by providing carefully designed and calibrated fiscal stimulus packages including the announcements made in the Budget 2009-10 (as given in Annexure II) and in the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2009-14 to provide support, particularly to promote employment intensive sectors. Details of FTP 2009-14, have been laid in Parliament and available in website http://dgft.gov.in.

281. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that in the next phase 90 projects of National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) requires $ 3-4 billion in the next two-three years; and

(b) if so, the steps Government is taking to raise funds for the execution of these projects?.
Answer
THE MINISTER OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI KAMAL NATH)

(a) and (b) National Highways Authority of India has prepared Work plan for 2009-10 which envisages award of 122 projects of total length 11,947 km at an estimated cost of Rs. 1,00,000 crore. Under the financing plan for National Highways Development Programme (NHDP) recommended by the B. K. Chaturvedi Committee, NHAI would require borrowings of about Rs. 1,90,000 crore which may be raised through Capital Gain Tax Exemption Bonds, Tax free Bonds with 10 years maturity, Loans from insurance companies, Infrastructure Bonds, Loans from Multilateral Agencies (World Bank & Asian Development Bank), Market Borrowing (with Government Guarantee) and Loans from Domestic Financial Institutions (Bank).

2121. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that a circular has been issued to ban the sale of bio-diesel in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether it is also a fact that the Railways and the Brihan-Mumbai Electric Supply & Transport Undertaking have floated tenders for purchase of bio-diesel; and

(d) if so, the reaction of Government thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS

(SHRI MURLI DEORA)

(a) & (b): No, Sir. However, all the State Governments/Union Territories have been advised to take suitable action in order to curb unauthorized marketing of bio-diesel for use as transportation fuel in terms of the Motor Spirit and High Speed Diesel (Regulation of Supply, Distribution and Prevention of Malpractices) Order, 2005.

(c) & (d): The Ministry of Railways and the Brihan Mumbai Electric Supply & Transport Undertaking have reported that they have floated tenders for the procurement of 50,000 KL and 3,300 KL of bio-diesel respectively.

This Ministry has clarified to all the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations that Bio-diesel (B100) as per BIS specification IS15607: 2005 is a blend stock for High Speed Diesel (HSD). As such, it is clear that B100, complying with IS15607: 2005 is exclusively meant for being blended with diesel fuel (IS1460), within the prescribed limits. B100 is not a fuel authorized for use as fuel in any type of automobile vehicle fitted with spark ignition engine or compression ignition engine.

277. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR
T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
Will the Minister of PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) plans Rs. 49,000 crores capex for 2010-14 with a substantial part of it, i.e. around 70 percent, to be incurred in core gas transmission segment;

(b) whether plan is to double the length of pipelines and transmission capacity apart from expanding company’s petrochemical business;

(c) whether company is planning to double current transmission pipeline length of around 7000 km to 14000 km by fiscal year 2013; and

(d) if so, what are the concrete measures and steps being considered in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS

(SHRI MURLI DEORA)

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

STATEMENT REFFERED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) IN RESPECT OF RAJYA BABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 277 TO BE ANSWERED ON 8.12.2009 REGARDING EXPENDITURE ON CORE GAS TRANSMISSION SEGMENT BY GAIL

(a): GAIL (India) Ltd. has a planned Capex (Capital Expenditure) of around Rs. 49,000 crore for the period 2010-14. Out of the mentioned amount, around 70% is in the core gas transmission segment. However, this expenditure is subject to due diligence and Board approval.

(b) to (d): The mentioned Capital Expenditure is based on GAIL (India) Ltd. doubling its pipeline length from the present level of 7,000 km to 14,000 km by 2014, apart from expanding Company’s petrochemicals business. The commissioning of these pipelines would also entail more than doubling the present level of transmission capacity. The approved projects are in various stages of execution, for which GAIL (India) Ltd. is also augmenting its manpower. As regards the remaining projects, due diligence is being undertaken and approvals are being sought.

1890. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that glaciers of major rivers like Ganga and Yamuna is melting very fast leading to unavailability of drinking water;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps Government is taking in this regard
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a)&(b)The various scientific studies indicate that the glaciers of Himalaya including glaciers of major rivers like Ganga and Yamuna are receding at varying rates in different regions. Accordingly, due to melting of ice, consequent upon faster recession, the runoff of the Himalayan rivers may initially increase marginally. Thereafter, there may be decrease in water availability.

(c) A National Action Plan on Climate Change was launched in June 2008 which envisages the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system amongst its 8 national missions. This Mission would seek to understand weather and the extent to which the Himalayan glaciers are in recession and how the problem could be addressed.

A new research centre on Himalayan Glaciology has been established at Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun. Guidelines and best practices for the governance for sustaining Himalayan Eco-system has been developed and shared with all State Governments in the Himalayan Region.

1889. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that plants are being cut at a very brisk rate during the last decade;

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

(c) whether Government is taking steps to plant more trees under PPP scheme; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a)&(b) There is no such report of large scale illegal tree cutting in the past decade from any State/UT Governments. But for the developmental activities etc. forest areas have been diverted involving felling of trees in the diverted area. The details of the forest area diverted in the last decade from 1st January, 2000 are given in Annexure.

(c)&(d) No “PPP Scheme” has been formulated for tree plantation.

249. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR
T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the country is ready to bring down its annual energy consumption by about five per cent in the next six years and reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 100 million tonnes every year through energy efficiency measures;

(b) if so, whether the Prime Minister`s Council on Climate Change gave its in- principle approval to the National Mission of Enhanced Energy Efficiency, one of eight missions identified under the National Action Plan on Climate Change; and

(c) whether the Mission is going to introduce `Perform, Achieve and Trade` mechanism which would assign energy efficiency improvement targets to the most energy intensive industrial units?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF POWER

( SHRI SUSHILKUMAR SHINDE )

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

STATEMENT
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF STARRED QUESTION NO. 249 TO BE ANSWERED IN THE RAJYA SABHA ON 07.12.2009 REGARDING ENERGY EFFICIENCY MISSION.

(a) to (c) : The Government of India has set a target of achieving savings of 5% in electricity consumption through energy efficiency measures by 2012 which amounts to an avoided capacity addition of 10,000 MW. In addition, the National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE), one of the 8 national missions announced under the National Action Plan on Climate Change, was accorded in- principle approval by the Prime Minister`s Council on Climate Change on 24th August, 2009. The National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE) seeks to reduce Carbon Dioxide emissions by 98.55 million tones annually after 2015. The total avoided capacity addition as a result of the implementation of this mission will be 19,598 MW.
The Perform, Achieve & Trade (PAT) is market based mechanism to enhance cost effectiveness of improvements in energy efficiency in energy- intensive large industries and facilities, through certification of energy savings in excess of the target set that could be traded.

1815. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is fact that Government is shunting Rajdhani trains and introducing more Duranto trains in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the other routes on which Duranto trains are going to be introduced in near future?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(SHRI E. AHAMED)

(a) & (b): There is no proposal to do away with Rajdhani Express.

(c): 5 pairs of Duronto trains have been introduced. Duronto trains on the following routes are to be introduced during the year 2009-10:

1. Delhi (Nizamuddin) – Secunderabad

2. Ernakulam – Delhi (Nizamuddin)

3. New Delhi – Jammu Tawi

4. Mumbai – Ahmedabad (AC)

5. Bhubaneswar – Delhi

6. New Delhi – Allahabad

7 New Delhi – Lucknow

8. Howrah – Delhi

9. Kolkata – Amritsar

1757. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether Government has been announcing huge investment in education sector;

(b) whether the latest World Bank report on secondary education in India is hardly flattering;

(c) whether according to World Bank report there has been focus on primary education but secondary education hardly gets attention it deserves and remains highly inequitable across the States;

(d) if so, whether according to the report secondary education is critical to breaking inter-generational transmission of poverty; and

(e) if so, to what extent Government has examined the points raised by World Bank on secondary education and the steps being taken to consider and implement them? ANSWER
Answer
MINISTER OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI KAPIL SIBAL)

(a) The total allocation for education sector during the 11th Plan is Rs. 2,69,873 crore, of which Rs. 1,84,930 crore is for school education and literacy, and Rs. 84,943 crore is for higher education.

(b) to (d) The World Bank in its report ‘Secondary Education in India: Universalizing Opportunity’ (January, 2009) has inter-alia mentioned that India’s gross enrolment rate at the secondary level of 40% is below that of countries in East Asia and Latin America. It also mentions that the focus of public investment in India over the last 15 years has been on primary education, and that secondary education is highly inequitable across the States and requires more attention. The report also cites instances of international research regarding the impact of secondary education suggesting that it is critical to breaking the inter- generational transmission of poverty.

(e) Central Government recognizes the need to make substantial improvement to the secondary education sector. A new scheme called “Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan” has been launched to enhance access to secondary education and to improve its quality. It seeks to ensure availability of secondary schools within reasonable distance of every habitation and to improve quality of education imparted at the secondary stage by conforming all schools to the prescribed norms. An outlay of Rs 20,120 crore has been provided for this scheme during the 11th Plan. The total allocation for secondary education has also been increased from Rs. 4,325 crore in the 10th Plan to Rs. 53,550 crore in the 11th Plan.

1609. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
TARIQ ANWAR
Will the Minister of PLANNING be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has decided to rope in private entities involvement while evaluating of Tenth Plan process;

(b) if so, whether Prime Minister has given a go ahead to rope in credible private think tank to help planning in carrying out mid-term appraisal of progress made during Eleventh Plan;

(c) whether Planning Commission has linked mid-term appraisal of various programmes especially social sector schemes to three tier 57 year old Programme Evaluation Organisation (PEO); and

(d) if so, the final decision taken thereon?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY)

(a) & (b): Yes, sir. Planning Commission has initiated Mid Term Appraisal of the Eleventh Five Year Plan. As part of this exercise, it has been decided to take inputs from independent reputed research institutions regarding the performance of the Plan. Based on these inputs, Planning Commission is making a comprehensive Mid-Term Review of the performance of the Eleventh Five Year Plan in terms of major achievements/shortfalls and make necessary recommendations for mid course correction.

(c): No, sir.

(d): Does not arise.

1548. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether is is a fact that Post Office Saving Schemes are not popular in public now-a-days;

(b) if so, the details of share invested in the Post Office Saving Schemes in proportion to other financial institutions; and

(c) the steps Government is taking to attract more and more people to invest in the post offices?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

(SHRI GURUDAS KAMAT)

(a) The popularity of savings schemes of post offices is a function of the choices available to an investor at any given time.

(b) The information is not maintained by this ministry. This is being collected from the concerned ministry and will be laid on the table of the House.

(c) The Central and State Governments take various measures from time to time to promote and popularize small saving schemes through print and electronic media as well as holding seminars, meetings and providing training to various agencies involved in mobilizing deposits under the schemes. As part of this ongoing exercise, Government has taken following steps to make the small savings schemes more attractive and investor friendly:-

(i) The restriction on opening of more than one account during a calendar month under the Senior Citizens Savings Scheme has been removed with effect from 24th May, 2007.

(ii) All categories of pensioners have been allowed to open and maintain ‘Pension Account’ under Post Office Savings Account Rules, with effect from 11th July, 2007.

(iii) The penalty on pre-mature withdrawal of deposits under the Post Office Monthly Income Account (POMIA) scheme has been rationalized from 3.5% to 2% on withdrawal on or before expiry of three years and 1% on withdrawal after expiry of three years.

(iv) The maximum deposit ceiling of Rs. 3.00 lakh and Rs. 6.00 lakh under the Post Office Monthly Income Account (POMIA) Scheme has been raised to Rs. 4.50 lakh and Rs. 9.00 lakh in respect of single and joint accounts respectively.

(v) Bonus at the rate of 5% on the deposits made under Post Office Monthly Income Account (POMIA) Scheme on or after 8th December, 2007 upon the maturity of the deposit, has been reintroduced.

(vi) The benefit of Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961 has been extended to the investments made under 5-Year Post Office Time Deposits Account and Senior Citizens Savings Scheme, with effect from 01.04.2007.

(vii) Measures are also taken to promote and popularize these schemes through print and electronic media as well as holding seminars and meetings, providing training to the various agencies involved in mobilizing collection in Small Savings Schemes etc.

(viii) A website of the National Savings Institute under Government of India, Ministry of Finance has also been launched to facilitate interface with the public through wider dissemination of information on small savings and on-line registration and settlement of investor’s grievances. The website address is nsiindia.gov.in.

1485. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether the labour manpower in the country has increased over the years;

(b) if so, whether Government has any plan to provide basic facilities such as health and education to the family members of the labourers in the country; and

(c) if so, the details thereof ?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT

(SHRI HARISH RAWAT)

(a) Reliable estimates of employment and unemployment are obtained through quinquennial labour force surveys conducted by National Sample Survey Organization. Last such survey was conducted during 2004-05. As per last two quinquennial rounds of surveys on employment and unemployment, labour force on usual status basis has increased from 406.06 million in 1999-2000 to 469.94 million in 2004-05 registering an average growth rate of 2.97 percent per annum.

(b) and (c) The Central Government through Ministry of Labour & Employment operates five welfare funds to provide health care, education, housing and recreational facilities to the beedi, cine and certain non-coal mine workers in the unorganised sector. The Employees Provident Fund & Miscellaneous Provision Act, 1952, and the Employees State Insurance Act, 1948, are applicable to workers in the organised sector subject to certain conditions. Under these Acts, health as well as old age benefits are available to the workers who are covered under the Act. The Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana was launched on 1st October, 2007 to provide smart card based cashless health insurance cover of Rs. 30,000/- per annum on family floater basis to BPL families (a unit of five) in the unorganised sector. Other benefits include all ailments and pre-existing diseases, hospitalization expenses, taking care of most of the illnesses including maternity benefit and transportation cost of Rs. 100 per visit with an overall limit of Rs. 1,000 per annumn.

1462. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government is planning to acquire unmanned aerial surveillance equipment to track naxalites in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) how much time it will take to acquire and what will be the role of the State Government in this operation?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI AJAY MAKEN)

(a) to (c): There is no specific proposal for provisioning of procurement or unmanned aerial surveillance equipment.

1385. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is fact that Chinese items are adversely affecting out industry specially small enterprises;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps Government is taking to safeguard the Indian small and medium scale enterprises?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY

(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) & (b): Imports from China during last 3 years is given in the table below:
Table: Imports from China Year Imports (Rs. Crore) 2006-07 79,008 2007-08 109,116 2008-09 147,605
No data is maintained separately for the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

(c): Trade defence measures are available to the domestic industry to counter unfair trade practices followed by exporters of goods from other countries. In case a product is imported into the country at less than its normal value, and it causes injury to the domestic industry, the domestic industry can make an application to Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied duties (DGAD) in the Department of Commerce for imposition of anti-dumping duty. Similarly, an application for imposition of safeguard duty can be made by the domestic industry to the Directorate General of Safeguards under the Ministry of Finance, in case there is serious injury/market disruption, or threat of series injury/threat of market disruption to the domestic industry, as a consequence of increased imports of an article into India. During 2008-09 and 2009-10 (upto November 2009) anti-dumping duty was imposed in 22 cases (final duty in 12 cases and provisional duty in 10 cases) and final Safeguard duty was imposed in 4 cases.

Under Section 3(2) of Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, the Central Government has an inherent power to impose restrictions on import of goods. The Customs Tariff Act, 1975 presently includes provisions for providing relief to the domestic producers against injury caused to them by imports, in accordance with the Agreement on Anti-Dumping (i.e. the Agreement on the implementation of Article VI of GATT, 1995), the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, and the Agreement on Safeguards. These provisions are aimed at offsetting the adverse effects of ‘dumped’ imports, ‘subsidized’ imports or ‘increased’ imports.

1369. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
TARIQ ANWAR
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether in move to ease procedural hassles, Commerce Ministry is pushing for removal of licensing requirements needed to distribute power to factories, business outsourcing units, and social infrastructure like hospitals and malls located inside SEZ;

(b) whether Power and Commerce Ministers are in advanced stages of interdepartmental talks that would lead to doing away with requirement for obtaining licences of distributing power inside SEZs;

(c) whether an empowered Group of Ministers had banned compulsory acquisition of land by State Governments for SEZs in April, 2007; and

(d) if so, the new set up of guidelines released on August 18, 2009?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)

(a) and (b): Yes, Sir. Detailed guidelines have been issued by the Department of Commerce on 27th February, 2009 for power generation, transmission and distribution in Special Economic Zones.

(c) and (d): Land is a State subject. Land for Special Economic Zones (SEZs) is procured as per the policy and procedures of the respective State Governments. Further, pursuant to the decision of Empowered Group of Ministers (EGOM) in its meeting held on 5th April, 2007, the State Governments have been informed on 15th June, 2007 that the Board of Approval will not approve any SEZs where the State Governments have carried out or propose to carry out compulsory acquisition of land for such SEZs after 5th April, 2007. The set of guidelines released on August 18, 2009 reiterate the position.

1296. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) the total number of vacant posts of doctors and medical staff in remote villages and inaccessible areas of Bihar; and

(b) whether it is being proposed to appoint doctors on contract basis or utilize unregistered doctors in these areas?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a) & (b) As per the Rural Health Statistics (RHS) Bulletin (March 2008), 513 positions of doctors. 176 positions of specialists, 237 positions of nurses, 548 positions of lab technicians and 550 positions of pharmacists are vacant in the state of Bihar. To compensate these gaps the state has undertaken contractual recruitment of health service providers under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM).

1227. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that many senior leaders of the country have died in the plane crash;

(b) if so, the number of plane crashes in the country during the last three years; and

(c) the steps Government is taking to provide good aircrafts as well as their proper maintenance?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION

( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )

(a) and (b):- Some senior leaders of the country have died in plane crashes in the past. However, in the last three years out of the 16 accidents to Indian Civil Registered aircraft only one accident involved fatal injury to a senior leader.

(c):- Guidelines exist in form of Aircraft Rules, Civil Aviation Requirements and Circulars for maintenance and operations to have safe aircraft operations, which are reviewed and modified from time to time as per requirement. Adherence to the guidelines is ensured during safety audits/ surveillance inspection by Directorate General of Civil Aviation.

168. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR
T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
Will the Minister of PANCHAYAT RAJ be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Prime Minister has pointed out for optimal use of the Panchayati Raj set up in the country and called for reforms to delegate more power from States to the Panchayati Raj System;

(b) if so, whether he has pointed out that even today in many States the functions, funds and functionaries have not been delegated effectively to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs);

(c) whether he has also urged the States to monitor hurdles against Panchayati Raj Institutions and asked the State Governments to work towards strengthening them; and

(d) if so, action so far taken by States in this regard ?
Answer
MINISTER OF PANCHAYATI RAJ

(Dr. C.P. JOSHI)

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

STATEMENT REFERRED TO PART (A), (B), (C) AND (D) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.168 TO BE ANSWERED ON 1.12.2009 REGARDING OPTIMAL USE OF PANCHAYATI RAJ SYSTEM.

(a), (b) & (c): Yes Sir. On 2.10.2009, Prime Minister while addressing the National Convention to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Panchayati Raj, stated that Panchayati Raj institutions(PRIs) need to play a pivotal role in the nation’s development. He further stated that the 73rd amendment of the Constitution provides that the State legislatures should empower Panchayati Raj Institutions as the institutions of Local Self Government and strengthen them so that they can evolve schemes for social justice and economic development. Even today in many States, the functions, the funds and functionaries have not been delegated effectively to the PRIs. He added that although there may be initial hurdles while delegating new responsibilities to the PRIs, the outcome will be fruitful and in the interest of the country.

(d): According to the provisions of Article 243G of the Constitution, the State legislatures may, by law, endow the Panchayats with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as institutions of self government. State legislatures are to consider 29 matters of the Eleventh Schedule for devolution to the Panchayats.

1169. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
TARIQ ANWAR
Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether his Ministry has prepared an action plan for next one year to ensure that 11,000 MW of power capacity targeted during 2008-09 is achieved;

(b) whether the Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has played crucial role in this development and in order to expand its operations in power and allied sector, the company has restructured its organization; and

(c) if so, to what extent these measures would help in achieving this target and to what extent it would reduce power shortfall in the country?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) : Against the original capacity addition target of 11061 MW for 2008-09, which was revised to 7530 MW on account of change in definition of commissioning, a capacity of 3454 MW was achieved during 2008-09. For the year 2009-10, against a target of 14507 MW, a capacity of 6142 MW has been added as on 9.11.2009. Following steps have been taken to achieve the capacity addition targets:

– Rigorous monitoring of capacity addition of on-going generation projects.

– Enhancement of main plant equipment manufacturing capacity by Bharat Heavy
Electricals Limited (BHEL).

– Widening of the vendor base by BHEL through outsourcing.

– Formation of Joint Venture company by NTPC Ltd. and BHEL, M/s L&T and MHI,
Japan, M/s JSW and Toshiba, M/s Bharat Forge and Alstom and M/s BB Engineering
and Ansaldo for manufacture of various power plants equipments.

– Development of Ultra Mega Power Projects of 4,000 MW each under competitive
bidding.
– Import of coal to meet the deficit in supply of indigenous coal.

– Augmentation of gas supply to utilize the stranded capacity of gas based power
projects.

– To overcome the shortage of skilled manpower, `Adopt an ITI` initiative has been
taken up.

(b) : Being a financial institution, Power Finance Corporation (PFC) is not directly
involved in capacity addition. However, PFC has so far extended financial assistance to
generation projects of 42563 MW, which are already commissioned/are likely to be
commissioned during 11th Plan. The year-wise break up is given below:

Year Capacity Supported(MW)
2007-08 5883
2008-09 2474
2009-10 7940
2010-11 13426
2011-12 12840
Total 42563

Not only to accelerate the pace of existing business of funding generation, transmission and distribution projects, but also to exploit the new opportunities available in the power and allied sector, PFC has restructured its organization and has created strategic business units, focusing on different business segments – conventional lending to generation, transmission and distribution projects; consortium lending to generation, transmission and distribution projects; lending to power equipment manufacturers and fuel producers and suppliers; renewable energy & CDM; and equity funding. Thus, PFC is playing a crucial role in the development of power sector.

(c) : As per latest assessment of the Central Electricity Authority, a total capacity addition of 62374 MW is likely to be commissioned with a high level of certainty and capacity of 12590 MW on best efforts basis during 11th Plan.

1149. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) the details of the 15 point Programme implemented, so far in Bihar;

(b) the details of the funds allocated and used so far;

(c) the criteria set for allocation of funds; and

(d) whether the State Government is using these funds properly?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS

(SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a)&(b) The details of implementation of schemes included in the Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme for the Welfare of Minorities and funds earmarked for minorities in States/UTs, including Bihar for the years 2006-07, 2007-08 and 2008-09 may be seen on the Ministry’s website at www.minorityaffairs.gov.in

(c)& (d) The programme provides that, wherever possible, 15% of targets and outlays under various schemes, included in the programme, should be earmarked for minorities. The programme also provides for location of a certain proportion of development projects in minority concentration areas. A close monitoring mechanism has been envisaged for implementation of the programme and the progress of implementation of the Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme is reviewed at the Centre and also by the State/UT and District level Committees.

1062. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of COAL be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that Coal India Ltd is planning to increase the capital through issue of shares; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (IC) IN THE MINISTRY OF COAL AND MINISTER OF STATE (IC) IN THE MINISTRY OF STATISTICS & PROGRAMME IMPLEMENTATION

(SHRI SRIPRAKASH JAISWAL)

(a)&(b) : Coal India Ltd. (CIL) has been conferred ‘Navratna’ status on 20.10.2008, with the express condition that CIL would be listed within 3 years. Accordingly, steps are being taken to convert CIL first into a public limited company and thereafter for its listing through disinvestment of some percentage of Government of India’s holding in Equity shares of CIL. Allowing some portion of the shares to be held by the public is expected to increase liquidity and also would enhance the valuation for the shareholdings of CIL. Besides, corporate governance is expected to be strengthened, which would also ensure greater accountability as well as enhanced efficiency & improved productivity.

1054. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
TARIQ ANWAR
Will the Minister of STEEL be pleased to state:-

(a) whether going by production of steel in country so far this year, India is on its way to become the third largest steel producer in world;

(b) whether India has a target of becoming world`s largest steel producer by 2013 and also aims to produce 124 MT of steel by 2011-12;

(c) to what extent the output of steel has helped India in its development; and

(d) the steps being considered to improve the `production further?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE (SHRI A. SAI PRATHAP) IN THE MINISTRY OF STEEL

(a) India became the 5th largest crude steel producer in the world in the year 2006 and held this position in the years 2007 and 2008 also. As per the latest global rankings released by the World Steel Association, India has emerged as the 3rd largest crude steel producer for the period from January to September, 2009.

(b) A number of major steel companies have announced investments in steel sector, both under capacity expansion (Brownfield) plans and setting up of Greenfield projects. Taking these projects into account, it is estimated that the overall domestic crude steel production capacity is likely to reach 124 million tonnes by the year 2011-12 and 295.93 million tonnes by the year 2019-20, as per the details given in Annexure.

(c) Increase in production of steel Has contributed to the growth of various industries like construction, automobiles, consumer durables and other infrastructure sectors like oil and gas, capital goods, transport equipments etc. which, in turn, contributed to the overall industrial growth of the country and thereby contributed in the growth of India`s gross domestic product. It has also encouraged employment growth, growth in exports and foreign exchange, better excise collection, progress in research and development and has led to improvement in India`s ranking and status in world steel market as a major steel producing country.

(d) Steel being a deregulated sector decisions related to production are taken essentially by the steel producing units. The Government acts as a facilitator only and provides the overall policy environment to promote industry growth. In order to promote the domestic steel industry and to meet the projected demand, the Government has framed the National Steel Policy, 2005 and constituted an Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG), under the chairmanship of Secretary(Steel), to monitor and coordinate the issues concerning major steel investments in the country related to infrastructure, raw material supply, environmental clearance and other resource constraints.

963. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that there is a need to raise the standard of teaching in schools in the country;

(b) if so, the measures Government is taking in this regard; and

(c) whether it also requires increased investment in Public Private Partnership Programme to improve quality of education at the bottom?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) to (c): Yes Sir. Under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, several steps have been taken to improve the quality of elementary education. These include, recruitment of additional teachers to improve the pupil-teacher ratio, in-service training of teachers for a period of 20 days every year, free distribution of textbooks for primary and upper primary classes provision of school development grants to schools and teacher’s grant for teaching learning material, academic support to primary and upper primary schools through Block Resource Centres, and remedial teaching to children. A new scheme called “Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan”, has been launched in March, 2009 with the objective of universalisation of access to secondary education and for improvement of quality.

878. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR
T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is planning to launch an ambitious scheme to dig over a million shallow tube wells in areas reeling under drought where ground water has not been over- exploited;

(b) if so, whether Government is planning to dig around 13.34 lakh tube wells, bore wells, dug wells in scanty and deficient rainfall areas this year;

(c) whether under this scheme contours and exact details are still being worked; and

(d) if so, by when official decision in this regard is likely to be taken and projects are likely to be started?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES

(SHRI VINCENT H. PALA)

(a) to (d) The scheme for “promoting installation of tube wells/bore wells and construction of dug wells in order to augment availability of water for agriculture and drinking water supply” has not been finalized.

762. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) Whether it is a fact that Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. is planning to outsource cable and tower maintenance operations in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the impact of this on BSNL?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

(SHRI GURUDAS KAMAT)

(a) Sir, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited has no plan to outsource cable maintenance operations. However, it has planned to outsource tower maintenance operations in the country.

(b) As per prevailing practices in BSNL, Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) is in place for second line maintenance of equipment with the network supply vendors. Moreover, it has been decided to outsource the work of diesel filling in remote areas, wherever internal resources are inadequate.

(c) Enhanced efficiency in maintenance of Base Transceiver Station (BTS) sites.

746. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has decided to provide Rs. 2546 crore under the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) to help textile sector which is reeling under of the impact of global slump in demand;

(b) if so, whether around 12,500 people will be benefited from the fund and money would be distributed electronically through 121 leading institutions including banks;;

(c) whether in addition, Government has constituted a 41 member working group to formulate the National Fibre Policy ; and

(d) to what extent this group has examined to promote the fibre equality as to ensure the balanced growth of the entire textile?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)

(a) & (b): The Government has released an amount of Rs.2576 crore under Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) in respect of 12514 applications in the current financial year (upto 19.11.2009).

(c): The Government constituted a Working Group on National Fibre Policy vide order dated 29th July 2009, initially comprising 41 members. The Working Group has now 72 members.

(d): The Working Group in its meeting held on 07.9.2009 constituted 8 Sub-Groups to examine the issues relating to balanced growth of various fibres. None of the Sub-Groups finalized their report so far.

92. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that naxalite attacks are increasing day by day in the country and recently a train was hijacked by the Maoist group;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the concrete steps Government is taking in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI AJAY MAKEN)

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

STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (C) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.92 FOR 25.11.2009 REGARDING “INCREASING ATTACKS BY MAOISTS”

(a) to (c): There has been an increase in naxal activities in 2009. In West Bengal, on 27th October, 2009, at about 14.35 hrs Train No.2443(A) Up (Bhubaneshwar-New Delhi Rajdhani Express) was shown red flags and stopped at Bansthala Railway Station near Jhargram in West Midnapore district by the CPI (Maoist) supported Police-e-Santrash Birodhi Janaganer Committee (PSBJC) activists. They held the driver and the assistant driver captive. They also pelted stones and broke windows of the coaches as a result of which some passengers’ sustained injuries. An exchange of fire took place between the security forces and Maoists when the security forces moved towards the train. The Security Forces reached the spot and secured the area, train, passengers and the track. The train left at 22.10 hrs with police escort.

Government has adopted an integrated approach in dealing with LWE activities. State Governments have the primary responsibility to deal with the various issues related to naxalite activities in the States. The Central Government assists their efforts in several ways. On the security side, these include providing Central paramilitary forces (CPMFs) and Commando Battalions for Resolute Action (CoBRA); sanction of India Reserve (IR) battalions; setting up of Counter Insurgency and Anti Terrorism (CIAT) schools; modernization and upgradation of the State Police and their Intelligence apparatus under the Scheme for Modernization of State Police Forces (MPF scheme); re-imbursement of security-related expenditure under the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme; filling up critical infrastructure gaps under the scheme for Special Infrastructure in Leftwing Extremism affected States; assistance in training of State Police through Ministry of Defence, Central Police Organisations and Bureau of Police Research and Development; sharing of Intelligence; facilitating inter-State coordination; assistance in community policing and civic actions; and assistance in development works through a range of schemes of different Central Ministries.

583. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
TARIQ ANWAR
Will the Minister of RURAL DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether in nearly 200 of the country`s 600 districts affected by drought, Government plans to fall back on the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) to provide relief to people in the affected areas;

(b) whether an 11- member expert committee has been set up to clear the obstructions of Government`s approach for widening the NREGS;

(c) whether NREGS would fulfil aim of providing minimum livelihood support to drought affected families; and

(d) if so, by what time a final decision will be taken in the matter?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI PRADEEP JAIN `ADITYA`)

(a) This Ministry has issued advisories to drought-affected States to meet employment demand in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

(b): There had been no obstructions to the Government`s approach for widening the scope of NREGS. So no 11 member expert committee has been set up to clear obstructions.

(c) & (d): Aim of NREGA is to enhance the livelihood security of the rural households by providing at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in every financial year to every household for doing unskilled manual work on demand. Draught affected households can avail of employment provided under NREGA.

570. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is better alternative of petrol specially in our country;

(b) if so, whether it is also a fact that some companies are working on their engines for better performance with CNG; and

(c) what are the steps Government is taking to increase the network of CNG supply in the country?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS

(SHRI JITIN PRASADA)

(a): CNG, being an environment friendly fuel, is considered to be a better alternative compared to petrol. Using CNG also contributes to reducing the dependence on imported crude oil.

(b): Yes, Sir.

(c): City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities authorized by Central Government, including Joint Ventures of GAIL, are undertaking activities to expand the CNG network. Further, Petroleum & Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) is in the process of authorizing entities for undertaking CGD activities in other cities. 834,631 standard cubic metres per day (SCMD) gas has been allocated from KG D-6 to various CGD entities for supply to transport & domestic sectors. The Government proposes to extend supply of CNG to 200 new towns by 2015.

514. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that HINI virus has come to India mainly through foreigners;

(b) if so, whether Government has taken any corrective measure to examine the foreign passengers at the airports; and

(c) the details of steps Government has taken to cure this virus-infected people?
Answer
THE MINSITER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a) & (b): Infection with pandemic influenza was first observed in Mexico in March, 2009 and subsequently spread to 206 countries across the globe, mainly through air travel including India. Entry screening of passengers was started at all 22 international airports from 1st May, 2009. Twenty eight thermal imaging cameras were installed at seven airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore and Goa). Passengers from affected countries are subjected to temperature monitoring. On being suspected of having sign and symptoms of H1N1 flu, the patient is isolated and treated in dedicated health facilities attached to the airports. The contacts of such passengers are identified and provided preventive treatment.

(c): Government of India took a series of actions. A comprehensive plan including guidelines and standard operating procedures were put in place. Community surveillance to detect clusters of influenza like illness is being done through Integrated Disease Surveillance Project. Laboratory network has been strengthened. There are forty two laboratories (24 in Govt. Sector and 18 in Private Sector) testing the clinical samples.
All States have been requested to gear up the state machinery, open large number of screening centres and strengthen isolation facilities including critical care facilities at district level.
Government of India procured 40 million capsules and 4 lakh bottles of Oseltamivir, the drug to treat H1N1 Flu. 18 million have been given to the States/UTs. Restricted sale of Oseltamivir is allowed through retail outlets having license to sell Schedule X drug. Adequate stock of personal protective equipments has been kept. Three Indian manufacturers of Vaccine are being supported to manufacture H1N1 vaccine. Four million doses are being imported to vaccinate the high risk group. Training of district level teams is supported by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Indian Medical Association has been provided funds to train private practitioners.
A task force in the I&B Ministry is implementing the media plan. Travel advisory, do’s and don’ts and other pertinent information has been widely published to alley fear and avoid panic. Media is kept informed on daily basis. All such information is also available on the website: http://mohfw-h1n1.nic.in.

419. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that the new Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPPs) are going to be commissioned shortly;

(b) if so, the States where they would be commissioned;

(c) whether it is also a fact that these UMPPs require a large supply of coal; and

(d) if so, the steps Government is taking for uninterrupted supply of coal to the power projects?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) & (b) : The Ministry of Power had launched an initiative for the development of coal based Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPPs), each of about 4000 MW capacity. Presently, four Ultra Mega Power Projects namely, Sasan in Madhya Pradesh, Mundra in Gujarat, Krishnapatnam in Andhra Pradesh and Tilaiya in Jharkhand have been awarded to the identified developers. Commencement of the bidding process in respect of other UMPPs in the states of Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Orissa, Maharashtra and Karnataka and additional UMPPs in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Orissa and Gujarat is contingent upon the availability of various requisite clearances including land and water availability from the respective State Governments.

Full benefits of these projects are envisaged to come up in the 12th Plan, however, as per the revised Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), two units each of Sasan and Mundra UMPPs are expected to come in 11th Plan.

(c) & (d) : Each UMPP of a capacity of 4000 MW power requires 18-20 Million Tonne per Annum (MPTA) coal in respect of the projects based on domestic coal and 12-14 MTPA in case of imported coal based projects. For pithead projects, Ministry of Power, through Power Finance Corporation, coordinates with Ministry of Coal for allocation of captive coal blocks to ensure smooth supply. In case of imported coal based projects, the responsibility of arranging fuel linkages rests with the successful bidder.

407. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the shortfall in capacity addition during the period between April and September, 2009 has been recorded at 2,029 MW;

(b) if so, whether according to Central Electricity Authority`s report in September actual capacity addition was recorded at 4433 MW against the target of 6462 MW;

(c) whether the slippages were largely due to delay in procurement of power plant equipment, fuel linkages and land acquisition; and

(d) if so, the concrete steps and measures Government is taking to remove these hurdles?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) to (c) : A statement showing capacity addition target and achievement, reasons for slippages project-wise during the period April to September, 2009 is at Annex.

(d) : The steps taken by the Government to remove the hurdles are as under:
a. Most of the units which slipped due to technical problems at time of commissioning have now been commissioned after resolving the technical problems.
b. Kerala State Electricity Board has been advised to augment Welding teams for erection of penstock in case of Kuttiyadi Addl. Extn U-1 &2 hydro project.
c. Gas allocation has been made for Utran CCPP and the same has been commissioned.

384. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that percentage of illiteracy rate is very high among the Muslim women in the country specially in rural areas;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps Government is taking to improve this situation?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS

(SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a)&(b) 50.1% is the Muslim female literacy rate against national female literacy rate of 53.7% as per 2001 census. It has been estimated from 2001 census that the Muslim female literacy rate in rural areas is 43% against total national rural literacy rate of 46% in rural areas.

(c) The Ministry of Minority Affairs has three scholarship schemes and has earmarked 30% of scholarships for female students from the minority communities which include Muslims. Maulana Azad Education Foundation also gives scholarships to female students from minority communities, including Muslims, studying in class XI and XII.

327. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the country has faced impact of global warming recently like floods in coastal areas, drought and shortfall of rain in agricultural producing States;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps Government is taking in this regard?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a)& (b) There is no conclusive scientific study to substantiate that the recent floods in coastal areas, drought and shortfall of rain in agricultural producing States is due to global warming. The studies conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) do not reveal confirmed findings about the adverse impact of climate change on Indian agriculture.

(c) A National Action Plan on climate change was launched in June 2008 which envisages inter alia National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture. The National Mission aims at developing strategies to make Indian agriculture more resilient to climate change through development of new varieties of thermal resistant crops, new credit and insurance mechanisms, better access to information and use of bio-technology.

242. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that CBI has taken action against the Chairman, Members and other officials of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) on charges of corruption in the recent past;

(b) if so the status of the enquiry; and

(c) the steps Government is taking for fair working of the Council ?
Answer

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) : Yes, Sir.

(b) : A case under section 120-B IPC and under section 7 & 8 of PC Act, 1988 has been registered against the officers of All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is investigating the charges of corruption against these officers.

(c):
(i) Steps have been taken to introduce e- governance system in the AICTE to enhance transparency in the working of the Council.

(ii) The approval process handbook is being modified to remove the inconsistencies and the scope for different interpretations.

(iii) The Appellate Committees have been strengthened with people of the level of VC’s (current and former)

182. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that large population in the country do not have proper meal;

(b) if so, whether it is also a fact that several National programmes are implemented for providing food to the families of below poverty line in rural and urban areas; and

(c) if so, the details of these programmes?
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.

(b)&(c): The Government implements several schemes/programmes for making subsidized food grains available to indentified poor families/individuals. Their details are as follows:

1. Targeted Public Distribution System:
Government is allocating food grains at subsidized rates for 6.52 crore Below Poverty Line (BPL), and Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) ration card holder families under Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS). Under this, food grains are allocated to the States/UTs @ 35 Kg per BPL/AAY family per month. Depending upon availability of food grains in the Central pool, they are also allocated for APL category of ration card holders. Presently, allocations of food grains under this category range from 10 to 35 Kg per family per month. During 2009-10, total 190.2 lakh tons of foodgrains have been allocated to States/UTs under APL category.

2. Under Annapurna scheme implemented by Ministry of Rural Development through State/UT Governments, indigent senior citizens of 65 years of age or above who are not getting old age pension, are provided 10 Kg of food grains per person per month free of cost. 94,970 tons of food grains have been allocated to States/UTs under the scheme during 2009-10.

3. Under the Emergency Feeding Programme (EFP) implemented by Department of Food & Public Distribution through the State Government of Orissa in eight KBK Districts of the State, food grains (rice) at BPL rates are allocated to the State Government for approximately 2 lakh beneficiaries in these districts. 18,000 tons of rice have been allocated under this scheme during 2009-10.

4. To provide safeguard against starvation during natural calamity and lean season, under the Village Grain Bank Scheme implemented by the Department of Food & Public Distribution through the State Governments, food grains are allocated free of cost by Government to States. So far 18,506 Village Grain Banks have been sanctioned in 20 States.

5. The Government also makes allocation of food grains to States/UTs through the Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Human Resource Development under Midday Meal scheme for providing food to school children studying in primary and upper primary levels. 27.73 lakh tons of food grains have been allocated under the scheme during 2009-10.
6. Under the Integrated Child Development Scheme implemented by Ministry of Women & Child Development through State/UT Governments aimed at improving the nutritional status of children below 6 years of age and expectant/lactating women, 9.26 lakh tons of food grains have been allocated during 2009-10.

7 Nutritional Programme for Adolescent Girls is another programme implemented by Ministry of Women & Child Development through State Governments for improving the status of adolescent girls in the age group of 11-19 years. During current year, 53,371 tons of food grains under the scheme have been allocated to States/UTs.

8. Under the Scheme for Welfare Institutions, Government makes allocation of food grains to States/UTs for meeting requirements of food grains of welfare institutions. During current year, 1.37 lakh tons of food grains have been allocated to various States/UTs under the scheme.

9. Under the Scheme for SC/ST/OBC Hostels, Government makes allocation of food grains to States/UTs for meeting requirements of food grains of SC/ST/OBC Hostels. During current year, 1.50 lakh tons of food grains have been allocated to various States/UTs under the scheme.

140. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has launched National Agriculture Insurance Scheme;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) how many farmers will get the benefit under this scheme, State-wise?
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): Yes, Sir. The National Agricultural Insurance Scheme(NAIS) is under implementation in the country from Rabi 1999-2000 season onward. The scheme is voluntary for the States and UTs and is available to all the farmers – loanee and non- loanee both – irrespective for their size of holdings. It envisages coverage of food crops, oilseeds, pulses and annual commercial/horticultural crops in respect of which
(i) the past yield data based on Crop Cutting Experiment (CCEs) is available for adequate number of years and
(ii) requisite number of CCEs are conducted for estimating the yield during the proposed season. At present, the scheme is being implemented in 25 States and 2 Union Territories.

(c): As it is a demand driven scheme, the number of farmers benefiting from the scheme in future can not be anticipated. However, a statement indicating number of farmers who had subscribed to the scheme since its inception i.e. Rabi 1999-2000 to Rabi 2008-09 is annexed.

112. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is fact that rainfall has been erratic during the last 2-3 years in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether it is also a fact that rainfall comes late and it is heavily in the one part of the state and leaving the other part as drought; and

(d) if so, the steps Government is taking to face drought and flood?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES

(SHRI VINCENT H. PALA)

(a) India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that variability in the monsoon rainfall from year to year is common feature and that the analysis of the data do not indicate any erratic behaviour.

(b) Not applicable.

(c) IMD has also informed that the analysis of data does not indicate any definite relation between onset of monsoon over Kerala with rainfall in the country.

(d) Various measures for mitigation of flood and droughts are undertaken by the respective State Governments. Central Water Commission maintains a network of 145 flood forecasting and 28 inflow forecasting stations. Government of India also provides assistance to the States for undertaking flood management and erosion control works in critical reaches under the scheme “Flood Management Programme”. Ministry of Agriculture has devised a Crisis Management Plan for addressing the issues related to drought. In view of the deficient rainfall during the monsoon of 2009, an Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) has been constituted on 13.08.2009 to review the situation and take quick and timely decisions for effective management of drought and related issues.

87. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of SPACE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is fact that Chandrayaan finds avidence of water on moon;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the other useful items available on the moon which can be used for further space programmes?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE, MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS, MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS , MINISTRY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND MINISTRY OF EARTH SCIENCES

(SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN):

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) The Chandrayaan-1 spacecraft’s instrument detected traces of OH (Hydroxyl) and water molecules at the Northern and Southern poles of the Moon.

(c) High resolution imagery obtained from Chandrayaan will help in identifying landing site for rovers on the Moon for the future space missions.

85. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

Will the Minister of PLANNING be pleased to state:-

(a) the number of Centrally sponsored schemes in operation in Bihar;

(b) the names of the schemes which are in operation through various Government agencies;

(c) whether it is a fact that there is lack of coordination between the various Government agencies due to which actual schemes are not functional fully; and

(d) if so, the steps Government is taking for better coordination?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PLANNING AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(SHRI V. NARAYANASAMY)

(a) & (b): The State Government has informed that as per the Bihar Budget 2009-10, there are mainly 69 Centrally Sponsored Schemes in operation in Bihar. The list of schemes and the departments is annexed.

(c) & (d): No specific case of lack of coordination between Government agencies has been reported. In order to ensure coordination, review meetings are held at various levels by the State Government. Planning Commission also reviews the schemes of all States, including Bihar, during the Annual Plan discussions, half-yearly performance reviews and visits to the States.

32. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY
TARIQ ANWAR
Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Prime Minister of Nepal during his visit to India has assured that Nepal territory would not be used for terrorist activities;

(b) whether Nepal promised to give priority treatment to Indian investors and to improve business climates;

(c) whether India has agreed to help Nepal to draft their constitution; and

(d) if so, to what extent measures have been taken in this regard and whether India is fully satisfied with the improvement of relations with Nepal? ANSWER
Answer
THE MINISTE R OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SMT. PRENEET KAUR)

(a) During the visit of Mr.Madhav Kumar Nepal, Prime Minister of Nepal to India from 18–22 August, 2009, the Nepalese side assured that it would not allow its territory to be used for any activity against India.

(b) During the visit, the Nepalese side conveyed that the Government of Nepal will take further necessary measures for the promotion of an investor friendly and enabling business environment to encourage Indian public and private sector investments in Nepal.

(c ) & (d) India expressed full support for the ongoing peace process in Nepal. Nepal has not sought assistance for drafting its constitution. During the visit, both sides expressed their satisfaction at the state of bilateral relations between the two countries and resolved to work together to further strengthen and enhance cooperation consistent with the wishes and aspirations of the people of both the countries.

15. SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that some mobile company operators are charging bill on per second usage;

(b) if so, the names of these companies;

(c) whether there is any plan to start this in MTNL and BSNL also; and

(d) if not, the reasons therefor?
Answer

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI GURUDAS KAMAT)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) M/s. Reliance Communications Ltd., M/s. Tata Teleservices Ltd., M/s. Aircel, M/s. Vodafone, M/s. Bharti Airtel Ltd. M/s. Idea Cellular Ltd., M/s. Reliance Telecom Ltd., M/s. Sistema Shyam Teleservices Ltd., M/s. Loop Mobile (India) Ltd. and M/s. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) have reported some tariff plans based on Per Second Billing system to Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

(c) & (d) M/s. MTNL has neither implemented nor has any plan at present to implement tariff based o n per second billing system. As per the Telecom Tariff Order issued by TRAI, mobile operators have flexibility to determine the tariff for different users and tariff based on Per Second Billing system is not mandatory.