Questions asked by Mr. Kamal Akhtar Peevee during Rajya Sabha session Nov-Dec 2009

    No. of questions found : 43

    Q No: 3364


    Support TwoCircles

    Dated:
    18.12.2009

    Ministry: RAILWAYS

    Subject: *LTC ENTITLEMENT TO RAILWAY EMPLOYEES

    Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-

    (a) the details of LTC entitlement to railway employees, grade-pay-wise;

    (b) whether LTC entitlement in Railways is not in conformity with the rest of Government of India guidelines;

    (c) if so, the details thereof and reasons for difference in LTC facilities for railway employees; and

    (d) the steps Government will take to remove such differences and facilitate the railway employees to avail LTC facilities at par with other Government employees?
    Answer

    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

    (SHRI E. AHAMED)

    (a) to (d): The railway employees are governed by Railway Servants (Pass) Rules, 1986 which entitle them to rail travel facilities on Privilege Passes/ Privilege Ticket Orders. LTC is not applicable to railway employees. No change is under consideration.

    Q No: 3249

    Dated:
    18.12.2009

    Ministry: AGRICULTURE

    Subject: PER CAPITA AVAILABILITY OF PULSES .

    Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

    (a) the details of availability of percapita pulses in the country during last three years, State- wise and year-wise;

    (b) whether it is a fact that availability of pulses is decreasing year by year;

    (c) if so, the details thereof; and

    (d) the steps Government has taken to increase production and availability of pulses during the last three years, Statewise?
    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 (c): State-wise data on per capita availability of pulses is not maintained. The per capita availability of pulses in the country as a whole has increased from 11.8 kg. per year in 2006 to 12.9 Kgs. per year in 2007 and further to 15.3 kgs. per year in 2008.(Provisional)

    (d): The Government implements a number of programmes/schemes to increase the production and availability of pulses in the country which includes, inter-alia, National Food Security Mission (NFSM), Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), Integrated Scheme of Oilseeds, Pulses, Oil Palm and Maize (ISOPOM) etc.

    Q No: 3248

    Dated:
    18.12.2009

    Ministry: AGRICULTURE

    Subject: PATHETIC CONDITION OF FARMERS.

    Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

    (a) whether agricultural land available in India is 54 to 57 per cent of total land area while the world average is 10 to 11 per cent;

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

    (c) whether it is a fact that Indian farmers are in a very pathetic and miserable condition;

    (d) if so, the details of farmers who committed suicide during last one year, State-wise;

    (e) whether farmers are committing suicide due to very less increase in MSP of agricultural products in comparison to other essential articles; and

    (f) whether Government will increase the MSP in accordance with the inflation?
    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): Total Agricultural land, which consists of net area sown, fallow lands, culturable waste land and land under miscellaneous tree crops was 55.6 % of the total Geographical area of the country during 2006-07, whereas the percentage of arable land was 10.9% to the total land area in the world in 2006, according to FAO Statistical Yearbook 2007-08.

    (b): A statement on State-wise Geographical area and Agricultural Land for the year 2006-07 is given at Annexure.

    (c): According to Situation Assessment Survey of Farmers conducted during 2003 in the rural areas by National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO), the average Monthly Per Capita Expenditure for farmer households at all India level during the year 2003 was Rs. 502.83 (less by

    9.3%) compared to Rs. 554.15 for all rural households.
    Contd..2/-

    -2-

    (d): State-wise cases of suicide by farmers due to agrarian reasons as per the information made available by the State Governments for the year 2008 are as follows:
    Andhra Pradesh – 390 Gujarat – 1 Karnataka – 143 Kerala – 22 Maharashtra – 627 Punjab – 10 Tamil nadu – 1

    (e) & (f): As reported by the State Governments, the reasons for committing suicide by the farmers are broadly due to crop failure, indebtedness, drought and socio-economic factors.
    The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), after comprehensive analysis of the concerned crop sectors, has recommended a substantial hike of Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for several crops for the year 2008-09.
    While recommending Minimum Support Prices for agricultural commodities, CACP factors in inflation in terms of increase in input cost in real terms, apart from several other factors. The prices of all the inputs going into the cultivation of a particular crop are updated according to their respective relevant price indices to take into account inflation at the level of factors of production and at the same time the inflationary trends in market prices are also accounted for while arriving at the MSP.

    Q No: 2981

    Dated:
    16.12.2009

    Ministry: HOME AFFAIRS

    Subject: URDU TRANSLATION OF NATIONAL SONG.

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

    (a) whether Government has ever officially got translated the Urdu version of National Song `vande mataram`;

    (b) if so, when it was translated into Urdu alongwith the full details of translation; and

    (c) if not, the reasons therefor?
    Answer

    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

    (SHRI AJAY MAKEN)

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

    Q No: 2916

    Dated:
    15.12.2009

    Ministry: CIVIL AVIATION

    Subject: INCREASE IN HAJ FARE.

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

    (a) whether Government has increased the Haj fare for current year;

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

    (c) the details of increase in fare during the last three years;

    (d) whether Haj fare was increased after last date of receipt of application for Haj and after the applications were accepted; and

    (f) if so, the reasons for such increase at last moment?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION

    ( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )

    (a), (b) and (c): Yes, Sir. The fare being charged per pilgrim has been increased from Rs.12,000 to Rs.16,000 w.e.f. Haj 2009. The cost of travel per pilgrim for Airlines has increased considerably mainly due to increase in input costs, increase in embarkation points etc. The amount charged per pilgrim as travel cost had remained unchanged at Rs.12,000/- since 1994. While the cost to the airlines per pilgrim for Haj 2006 II, Haj 2007 and Haj 2008 was Rs.47,495/-, Rs.48,064/- and Rs.67,332/- respectively, the difference in fares being the subsidy borne by the Government.

    (d) and (e): The airfare to be charged from the pilgrims has been increased with the approval of the Cabinet. The decision was taken in the month of October, 2009 and the Haj Committee was informed immediately.

    Q No: 2535

    Dated:
    11.12.2009

    Ministry: HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

    Subject: *MINORITY STATUS FOR CENTRAL
    UNIVERSITIES.

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

    (a) the details of central universities which have been given minority status, State-wise;

    (b) the criterion for granting minority status to universities;

    (c) the details of facilities given to those institutions/ universities which have been granted minority status;

    (d) whether Government will grant minority status to Jamia Millia Islamia; and

    (e) if so, by when and if not, the reasons thereof?
    Answer

    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESROUCE DEVELOPMENT

    (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

    (a) to (e): Section 2(l) of the Aligarh Muslim University Act, 1920 defines the University as ‘the educational institution of their choice established by the Muslims of India, which originated as the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College, Aligarh and which was subsequently incorporated as the Aligarh Muslim University’. Section 5(2)(c) of the Act empowers the University ‘to promote especially the educational and cultural advancement of the Muslims of India.’ In view of this, the Central Government treats Aligarh Muslim University in the State of Uttar Pradesh as a minority institution within the meaning of Article 30(1) of the Constitution of India. However, the question relating to minority institution status of Aligarh Muslim University is pending before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India where the interpretation of the term ‘establishing’ a University, as was laid down in the ‘Azeez Basha’ matter is under challenge. Universities with minority status enjoy the rights under Article 30(1) of the Constitution.
    The demand for grant of minority status to Jamia Millia Islamia, a Central University established under the Jamia Millia Islamia Act, 1988, has been received from certain quarters. The orders of the Supreme Court in the AMU matter will have a bearing on the issue relating to the minority character of Jamia Millia Islamia, which is pending before the Hon’ble National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions.

    Q No: 2534

    Dated:
    11.12.2009

    Ministry: HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

    Subject: ELECTIONS TO STUDENTS UNIONS IN
    UNIVERSITIES.

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

    (a) the details of Central universities where elections to students’ unions have been conducted since January, 2009 till date, university-wise;

    (b) the details of central universities where unions are functioning at present and where the same have been dissolved from January, 2009 till date;

    (c) whether elections to students’ unions in Jamia millia Islamia, BHU, AMU and Allahabad universities were conducted this year; and

    (d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor, university-wise?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

    (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

    (a) According to the information provided by the Central Universities, elections to students’ unions have been conducted since January, 2009 only in the University of Delhi.

    (b) Students’ union is functioning at present in University of Delhi and a Students’ Council is functioning in Banaras Hindu University. The students’ union in University of Hyderabad was dissolved on 20th August, 2009.

    (c) No Sir.

    (d) According to information provided by the concerned universities:

    in Jamia Milia Islamia, a Committee in the University is continually reviewing the issue and it has been felt that any minor incident during the election process can spark off disruption on the campus and seriously impede and disrupt the Academic Calendar.

    in Banaras Hindu University, a University Students’ Council is functioning satisfactorily since 2007 in place of students’ Union.

    in Aligarh Muslim University, in view of the past history of violence, elections to students’ union is not being conducted.

    in Allahabad University, no student body has been constituted.

    Q No: 2295

    Dated:
    09.12.2009

    Ministry: TEXTILES

    Subject: POOR CONDITION OF HANDLOOM WEAVERS .

    Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-

    (a) the total number of handloom weavers in the States of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh as on date, State-wise and district-wise;

    (b) whether it is a fact that majority of handloom weavers in these States are poor and indebted and leading miserable life; and

    (c) if so, what action Government has taken or proposes to take to improve the lot of handloom weavers in these States, State-wise during last one year till 31st October, 2009?
    Answer
    THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES

    (SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)

    (a): Details of number of weavers in the States of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh as per joint Census of Handlooms & Powerloom Report 1995-96 is as under:-

    Name of State Number of persons engaged in (Weavers) & Allied Activities

    Uttar Pradesh 4,01,362

    Madhya Pradesh 27,744

    Andhra Pradesh 4,90,616

    The district-wise details of weavers are maintained by the respective State Governments.

    (b): The condition of the weavers engaged in the handloom sector is dependent on steady supply of basic inputs like yarn, credit, looms, accessories etc. at reasonable rates especially as they face stiff competition from the organized mill and powerloom sectors and also in marketing of finished products. In order to alleviate the weavers from the problems and to improve their working conditions, the Government of India has formulated schemes to assist them in acquiring looms, skill upgradation, organize marketing events, supply of yarn and to provide health and life insurance besides others.

    (c): The Government of India is implementing the following schemes all over the country including the States of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh for enhancing production, productivity and efficiency of the handloom sector and to enhance the income and socio-economic status of the weavers through skill upgrading, and for providing infrastructural and marketing support in the XI Plan period.

    (i) Integrated Handlooms Development Scheme

    (ii) Marketing and Export Promotion Scheme

    (iii) Handloom Weavers Comprehensive Welfare Scheme

    (iv) Mill Gate Price Scheme

    (v) Diversified Handloom Development Scheme.

    Q No: 2256

    Dated:
    09.12.2009

    Ministry: LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT

    Subject: WAGE BOARD FOR JOURNALISTS

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

    (a) whether Government has constituted wage board for revision of pay of journalists;

    (b) if so, the details thereof;

    (c) whether the wage board for journalists has submitted its report/ recommendations to Government; and

    (d) if so, the details thereof and if not, by when it is likely to be submitted and implemented?
    Answer

    MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT

    (SHRI HARISH RAWAT)

    (a) & (b): Yes, Sir. The Government has constituted two Wage Boards, one for Working Journalists and the other for Non-Journalist Newspaper Employees under Section 9 and 13 C respectively, of the Working Journalists and other Newspaper Employees (Conditions of Service) and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1955 vide notifications dated 24.05.2007. The Wage Boards consists of:

    (i) Three persons representing employers in relation to newspaper establishment common to the two wage boards;

    (ii) Three persons representing working journalists for Wage Board under Section 9 and three persons representing non-journalist newspaper employees for Wage Board under Section 13 C of the Act; and

    (iii) Four independent persons common to the two wage boards, one of whom has been appointed as Chairman.

    (c) & (d): The Wage Boards have been given three years to submit their reports i.e. by 23rd May, 2010 vide notifications dated 3rd July, 2007. In exercise of the powers conferred under Section 12 and 13 D, the Central Government accepts the recommendations and notifies the same in the Gazette of India for implementation. Prime responsibility for implementation of Wage Boards’ Awards lies with State Governments, who are the appropriate Governments for the implementation of the Wage Boards’ Awards. However, the Central Government has also constituted a Central Level Monitoring Committee under the Chairmanship of Labour and Employment Adviser to monitor the implementations of the Wage Boards’ Awards in the States/Union Territories.

    Q No: 2205

    Dated:
    09.12.2009

    Ministry: HOME AFFAIRS

    Subject: REVIEW OF SECURITY OF ATOMIC
    ESTABLISHMENTS

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

    (a) whether it is a fact that intelligence agencies have recently cautioned the Government that atomic establishments of India can fall prey to terror strikes;

    (b) if so, the details thereof;

    (c) whether Government has reviewed security of atomic establishments; and

    (d) the details of the steps taken by Government for security of atomic establishments?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

    (SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)

    (a) to (d) :- Yes, Sir. In view of the prevailing security scenario, the atomic establishments continue to remain prime target of the terrorist groups and outfits. However the Central Security Agencies conduct security audit of Atomic Establishments every two years and also sensitize the concerned State Governments / managements of these installations from time to time. The CISF has been mandated to undertake security arrangements for all strategically sensitive atomic establishments. Besides CISF, in some cases air defence measures are also additionally provided in cooperation with the defence forces for these atomic establishments. As such, adequate security arrangements are ensured which are periodically updated to protect Atomic Establishments in the country.

    Q No: 2098

    Dated:
    08.12.2009

    Ministry: HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

    Subject: *VIGILANCE CASES AGAINST OFFICIALS OF
    AYUSH .

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

    (a) whether it is a fact that vigilance cases are pending since May, 2005 against some of the Directors of the various Councils under the Department of AYUSH;

    (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons why no final decision has been taken thereon so far; and

    (c) whether Government proposes to fix responsibility on the officers who are responsible for not taking action on the report?
    Answer
    THE MINSITER OF STATE FOR HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE

    (SHRI S. GANDHISELVAN)

    (a) Yes.

    (b) & (c): One vigilance case against Dr. BTC Murthy, former Director, National Institute for Naturopathy [presently Director, Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy (CCRYN)] is pending. As per the advice of the Central Vigilance Commission dated 18.05.2005, major penalty proceeding was initiated in November, 2005. The Inquiry Report dated 17.8.2007 was processed and referred to the CVC for its 2nd stage advice. The Commission had given its advice on 07.08.2009. The advice of the Commission is presently under consideration of the Government.

    Q No: 2080

    Dated:
    08.12.2009

    Ministry: HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

    Subject: ISSUE OF SUBSTITUTE MEDICINES BY CGHS
    DISPENSARY.

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

    (a) whether medicines prescribed by the Specialists and Government Hospitals with remarks on the prescription – no substitute to the beneficiaries are being issued alternative medicines by the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) Dispensaries, particularly Aram Bagh, Chitra Gupta Road, Sector – 12, R.K. Puram dispensaries;

    (b) if so, the details thereof;

    (c) whether this is permitted under rules;

    (d) if so, the details thereof; and

    (e) if not, the action taken against the doctors of the dispensaries who have issued substitute medicines to the beneficiaries?
    Answer
    THE MINSITER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

    (SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

    (a) to (e): As a matter of policy, on prescription specialists, the CGHS dispensaries are required to supply to beneficiaries, as far as possible, medicines of same formulation and therapeutic valve available with them and is not treated as “substitute”. If such medicines are not available then only these are indented for procurement from Authorised Local Chemist or through the Medical Store Depot.

    Q No: 2064

    Dated:
    08.12.2009

    Ministry: HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

    Subject: *RURAL MBBS COURSE

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

    (a) whether Government has proposed for any rural MBBS course; and

    (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?
    Answer
    THE MINSITER OF STATE FOR HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE

    (SHRI DINESH TRIVEDI)

    (a) No.

    (b) Does not arise.

    Q No: 2063

    Dated:
    08.12.2009

    Ministry: HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

    Subject: *BAN ON SALE
    OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS NEAR EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

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

    (a) whether Government has banned selling of tobacco and tobacco products near schools and colleges by an Act of Parliament;

    (b) if so, the details thereof;

    (c) whether Government has ever conducted survey to ascertain the number of people displaced and unemployed due to enforcement of this law;

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

    (e) whether there is any provision in this act for compensation and rehabilitation of those who were displaced and unemployed; and

    (f) if not, the reasons why poor people are harassed while Government hesitate to ban tobacco completely?
    Answer
    THE MINSITER OF STATE FOR HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE

    (SHRI S. GANDHISELVAN)

    (a) & (b) Yes. As per Section 6 (b) of “The Cigarette and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003” (COTPA, 2003), no person shall sell, offer for sale, or permit sale of, cigarette or any other tobacco products in an area within a radius of one hundred yards of any educational institution.

    (c) & (d) No such survey has been conducted.

    (e) & (f) There is no such provision under COTPA, 2003. This Ministry is working closely with Ministry of Rural Development for providing alternative income generating activities for bidi workers.

    Q No: 1727

    Dated:
    04.12.2009

    Ministry: CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC
    DISTRIBUTION

    Subject: PRICE RISE OF SUGAR .

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

    (a) whether it is a fact that price of sugar has increased 19 per cent from 1 October to 12 November, 2009;

    (b) if so, the details thereof;

    (c) the reasons for such steep rise in price of sugar;

    (d) the amount and rate at which sugar was imported and exported during last two years, year-wise and country-wise rate thereof; and

    (e) the steps taken by Government to redress the situation?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

    (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

    (a)&(b): The retail price of sugar in the four metro cities as on 01.10.2009 and 12.11.2009 along with the details of percentage increase in sugar prices is given as under:

    (Rs. per kg.)

    Centre
    On 1st Oct. 09
    On 12th Nov, 09
    Percentage increase in sugar prices.

    Delhi 32.00
    38.00
    1 8.75%

    Mumbai
    33.00
    37.00
    12.12%
    Kolkata
    30.00
    35.00
    16.66%
    Chennai
    30.00
    33.00
    10.00%

    (c): The low sugar production in the country during the last sugar season 2008-09 and the anticipated low production of sugar during the current sugar season 2009-10 has led to recent escalation in sugar prices.

    (d): The Central Government has not undertaken any import/export of sugar. Export/import of sugar is undertaken by the sugar mills/ merchant exporters-importers as per their commercial prudence. As such the amount and rate at which sugar was imported/exported are not available. However, a statement indicating the country-wise quantity and value of import and export of sugar during the last two financial years 2007-08 and 2008-09 is enclosed at Annexure-IA & IB respectively.

    (e): Concerned with the fact that the production of sugar in the country during the last sugar season 2008-09 was less than the domestic demand and that the estimated sugar production in the current sugar season 2009-10 is also expected to be substantially lower than the overall demand of sugar in the country, the Central Government has allowed duty-free import of white/refined and raw sugar to bridge the gap between demand and production as well as to moderate prices of sugar in the open market. Details of these measures are given at Annexure-II.

    Q No: 1702

    Dated:
    04.12.2009

    Ministry: AGRICULTURE

    Subject: MISERABLE CONDITION OF FARMERS IN
    U.P. .

    Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

    (a) whether it is a fact that condition of farmers of Uttar Pradesh who constitute 2/3rd population of State, is very miserable;

    (b) if so, whether any survey has been conducted to ascertain their real condition;

    (c) if so, the details thereof and if not, whether Government will conduct any survey in this regard;

    (d) whether it is also a fact that due to policies of Government, 90 per cent farmers of U.P. are not able to even feed their families properly; and

    (e) the details of farmers who committed suicide in northern States during last three years, State- wise and year-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) to (e): The information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House.

    Q No: 232

    Dated:
    04.12.2009

    Ministry: RAILWAYS

    Subject: *SALE
    OF VIP QUOTA TICKETS .

    Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-

    (a) whether she is aware of the media report that VIP quota for waitlisted ticket confirmation is being sold for Rs.700/- per berth by Headquarter, Rail Bhavan;

    (b) if so, the details thereof since June to October, 2009;

    (c) whether officials of Directorate of Commercial are involved in selling of VIP quota to touts;

    (d) if so, the action she would take against guilty officials and touts;

    (e) whether a Parliamentary Committee would be constituted to enquire into the matter; and

    (f) if not, the reasons therefor?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF RAILWAYS

    (KUMARI MAMATA BANERJEE)

    (a) to (f): A statement is laid on the Table of the Sabha.

    STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (f) OF STARRED QUESTION NO.232 BY SHRIMATI KUSUM RAI AND SHRI KAMAL AKHTAR TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 04.12.2009 REGARDING SALE OF VIP QUOTA TICKETS

    (a) to (d) : One print media has reported that touts pay money in Rail Bhawan to get VIP quota released. No specific information has been quoted.

    (e) & (f): Efforts are made to bridge the gap between demand and supply of reserved accommodation by planning holiday special trains during the peak rush periods, putting on extra coaches to meet the day-to-day requirements and increasing the number of coaches on permanent basis in those trains which have high demand and patronage. Moreover, random checks are conducted in association with Vigilance Organisation. If any Railway official is found involved in any irregularity, the official is taken up severely. The process of checks and tightening of procedures is a continuous activity and is closely monitored.

    Q No: 1672

    Dated:
    03.12.2009

    Ministry: YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS

    Subject: DISSATISFACTION EXPRESSED BY
    PRESIDENT COMMONWEALTH GAMES FEDERATION

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

    (a) whether it is a fact that Mike Fennel, the President of Commonwealth Games Federation has expressed dissatisfaction with the preparations of Organising Committee;

    (b) if so, the issues on which there is dissatisfaction and disagreement;

    (c) whether it is also a fact that Commonwealth Organising Committee have written a letter to Mike Fennel to call back the CEO of Commonwealth Games Federation; and

    (d) if so, the reasons therefor and the steps being taken by the Government to complete preparations for games on time?
    Answer
    THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS

    (SHRI PRATIK PRAKASHBAPU PATIL)

    (a) Yes, Sir.

    (b) During his visit to Delhi for participating in the Executive Board Meeting of OC, CWG held on 10th September, 2009, he had expressed some concerns related to the capacity of the Organising Committee to deliver operationally.

    (c) No, Sir. The Organising Committee has not written to Mr. Mike Fennel to call back the CEO of Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF).

    (d) All necessary steps are being taken to complete the preparations for the games in time including completion of sports infrastructure and the strengthening of the management and administration within the OC. The Group of Minister (GOM) and the Committee of Secretaries (COS) is monitoring all aspects of the preparation every week.

    Q No: 1599

    Dated:
    03.12.2009

    Ministry: PERSONNEL,PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND
    PENSIONS

    Subject: CHANGE IN PATTERN OF CIVIL SERVICES
    EXAM .

    Will the Minister of PERSONNEL,PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS be pleased to state:-

    (a) whether it is a fact that UPSC has proposed to replace the current method of examination for Civil Services, both preliminary and mains;

    (b) if so, the full details thereof alongwith the details of proposed pattern and syllabus and the rationale for changing the existing pattern;

    (c) by when it would be implemented;

    (d) whether advance information/notice would be given to aspirants of Civil Services;

    (e) if so, the details thereof; and

    (f) if not, the reasons therefor?
    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.

    (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)

    (a) to (f) : The matter is under consideration of the Government.

    Q No: 1532

    Dated:
    03.12.2009

    Ministry: COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION
    TECHNOLOGY

    Subject: *REVENUE GENERATED THROUGH G SPECTRUM
    .

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

    (a) how much revenue was generated by allocation of 2G spectrum to private companies;

    (b) the details of the companies which were allocated 2G spectrum;

    (c) whether these companies possess essential experience and infrastructure in communication sector;

    (d) if so, the details thereof; company-wise; and

    (e) if not, the reasons and rationale for allocating spectrum to companies without essential experience and infrastructure?
    Answer
    THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

    (SHRI GURUDAS KAMAT)

    (a) The UAS licence is granted at a pan India price of Rs 1658.5701 crores. The UAS licence mandates grant of intial / startup spectrum on case by case basis and subject to availability. There is no upfront charges for allocation of 2G spectrum, however the revenue generated, from the usage of 2G Spectrum and Mirowave Spectrum based on Ajusted Gross Revenue (AGR) from private companies for the year 2008-2009 is Rs.2820.46 crores.

    (b) The details of the companies which were allocated 2G spectrum is enclosed as Annexure-I.

    (c) & (d) Yes, Sir. The initial/ start-up spectrum has been allotted to the Unified Access Service Licencees as per the provisions of their Service Licence Agreements subject to availability of spectrum. With growth of service and increased subscriber base, additional spectrum is also being earmarked based on the subscriber based criteria evolved from time to time and subject to availability of spectrum in a telecom service area.

    (e) Not applicable in view of (c) & (d) above.

    Q No: 1499

    Dated:
    02.12.2009

    Ministry: ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH
    WAYS

    Subject: EXPANSION OF NH TO LANE FROM UP
    BORDER TO VIJAY NAGAR .

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

    (a) whether Government is aware that NH-24 always remain clogged and jammed packed from UP border to Vijay Nagar and during peak hours problem gets further aggravated;

    (b) the merging of traffic from 6 lane from Delhi to 2 lane on one side from UP border and number of colony cuts/crossings on the highway near Khoda colony are the main reasons for traffic nightmare;

    (c) if so, whether Government propose to expand the NH-24 to 6 lane from UP border to Vijay Nagar and close the cuts; and

    (d) if so, by when and if not, the reasons therefor?
    Answer
    THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

    (SHRI R. P. N. SINGH)

    (a)&(b) Yes, Sir.

    (c)&(d) Delhi/UP border to Vijay Nagar section of NH-24 is part of proposed 6-lane access controlled Delhi-Meerut Expressway identified for development under National Highway Development Project (NHDP) Phase-VI on Build Operate & Transfer (BOT) basis. The feasibility study is in progress and targeted for completion by March, 2010.

    Q No: 1426

    Dated:
    02.12.2009

    Ministry: HOME AFFAIRS

    Subject: *ACTION TO CHECK RECURRENCE OF
    NAXALITE ATTACKS .

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

    (a) the details and number of naxalite attacks occurred in the country during last one year till date, State-wise;

    (b) the details of people and police/army personnel killed/injured during the said period, State-wise;

    (c) whether any ex-gratia payments were made to kins of deceased/injured;

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

    (e) what concrete action Government proposes to check recurrence of such activities?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

    (SHRI AJAY MAKEN)

    (a) & (b): Details are given in the Annexure.

    (c) & (d): Central Government under the Security Related Expenditure Scheme grants ex-gratia payment of Rs. 1 lakh to the family of civilian killed and Rs. 3 lakh to the family of Security personnel killed due to naxal attacks. Besides this State Government have their own rehabilitation policy for payment of ex-gratia to the families of civilians and security personnel killed in naxal attacks. State wise details are not centrally maintained.

    (e): The Central Government assists efforts of the State Governments to deal with naxalites in the States. These include deployment of Central paramilitary force (CPMFs); sanction of India Reserve (IR) battalions, 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; assistance in training of State Police through Ministry of Defence, Central Police Organisations and Bureau of Police Research and development; sharing of intelligence and assistance in development works through a range of schemes of different Central Ministries.

    Q No: 189

    Dated:
    02.12.2009

    Ministry: COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

    Subject: *RICE EXPORTED TO VARIOUS COUNTRIES .

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

    (a) the details of rice exported to various countries during the last three years, country-wise;

    (b) the details of the companies which exported rice to various countries during the last three years;

    (c) whether it is a fact that rice was exported to African countries by some private companies contrary to Government guidelines; and

    (d) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

    (SHRI ANAND SHARMA)

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

    c) & d) While there is a prohibition/restriction on export of Non-Basmati Rice, keeping in view the request of the Governments of some African countries and on diplomatic considerations, a quantity of 1,21,500 tonnes of Non-Basmati Rice was exported by the PSUs in relaxation of the prohibition/restriction on commercial terms.

    Q No: 149

    Dated:
    30.11.2009

    Ministry: ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

    Subject: FOREST
    COVER IN UTTAR PRADESH .

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

    (a) whether it is a fact that the forest cover area of Uttar Pradesh is decreasing due to various construction projects in the State;

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

    (c) the efforts the Central Government has made so far or proposes to make to increase the forests cover area in the State to save the life of common man?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FOREST

    (SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH):

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

    Statement referred to in reply to part (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 149 by Shri Kamal Akhtar and Shrimati Kusum Rai, due for reply on 30.11.2009.

    (a)&(b) As per the last State of Forest Report (2005), the forest cover of Uttar Pradesh showed no change between 2003 and 2005 assessments and remained constant at 14,127 km2.

    (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for regeneration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in the country including the state of Uttar Pradesh. 69 Forest Development Agency (FDA) projects involving 2134 Joint Forest Managements Committees (JFMCs) have been approved in Uttar Pradesh upto 31.03.2009. In addition, a new plan scheme titled ‘Additional Central Assistance for Accelerated Programme for Restoration and Regeneration of Forest Cover’ has been introduced in 2009-10 with an outlay of Rs.500 crores for the whole country besides the convergence between National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) of Ministry of Rural Development and NAP at state level to increase the forest cover.

    Q No: 954

    Dated:
    27.11.2009

    Ministry: CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC
    DISTRIBUTION

    Subject: ROTTENING OF FOODGRAINS IN FCI
    GODOWNS

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

    (a) whether it is a fact that thousands of tonnes of foodgrains is rotted every year in the godowns of FCI;

    (b) if so, the details of rotten foodgrains during last three years, State-wise, year-wise and foodgrain-wise;

    (c) the reasons for such negligence; and

    (d) the action taken/proposed to be taken against the officials/authority guilty for rottening of foodgrains during last three years, till date?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION

    (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

    (a)&(b): No, Sir. However, some quantities of foodgrains with Food Corporation of India (FCI) are damaged due to various reasons, such as, cyclones, floods, acceptance of below specifications stocks and movement to other regions. The damaged foodgrains accrued in the godowns of FCI during last three years, state-wise, year-wise and foodgrain-wise are given in Annexure.

    (c)&(d): The foodgrains are stored by following scientific code of practices for storage. Timely prophylactic and curative treatments are carried out for the control of stored grains insect pests. However, during periodical inspections by various authorities if some quantities of foodgrains are found damaged due to negligence of some officials, suitable disciplinary actions are initiated against them.

    Q No: 943

    Dated:
    27.11.2009

    Ministry: CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS

    Subject: *SHORTAGE OF UREA AND DAP .

    Will the Minister of CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS be pleased to state:-
    SHRI SHRIKANT KUMAR JENA

    (a) whether Government is aware that farmers are facing shortage of urea and DAP fertilizers in the country, particularly in UP and thereby suffering heavy losses;

    (b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise and district-wise in case of UP;

    (c) the reasons which compel the farmers every year to face shortage of fertilizers during sowing season; and

    (d) the steps taken to redress the hardship of poor farmers?
    Answer

    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CHEMICALS & FERTILIZERS

    (SHRI SRIKANT KUMAR JENA)

    (a) to (c): Urea is the only fertilizer which is under partial movement and distribution
    control of the Government. All other fertilizers viz. DAP, MOP, SSP and NPK etc. are
    decontrolled/ de-canalized since 1992. The availability of Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers
    is decided by the market forces of demand and supply. Union Government monitors
    availability of fertilisers at State level. State Governments are responsible for distribution of
    fertilizers within the State.

    The demand, supply (availability) and sales of Urea and Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP) in

    Uttar Pradesh and All India during the current year 2009-10 (April`09 to October`09) are as
    under:
    (`Qty. in `LMT`)

    State Particulars Urea DAP Uttar Pradesh

    Demand/Assessed requirement 28.00 9.25

    Supply (Availability) 27.75 9.56

    Sales 25.39 9.46

    All India
    Demand/Assessed requirement 159.69 70.46

    Supply (Availability) 149.80 74.04

    Sales 142.36 72.66

    However, the availability of Urea and DAP fertilizers in Uttar Pradesh and All India level has
    been adequate.
    The State-wise cumulative requirement (demand), availability and sales of Urea,
    DAP, MOP and Complex fertilizers during 2009-10 (April`09 to October`09) is annexed. As
    can be seen, the availability of urea, DAP and MOP has been adequate. However, there
    has been a little tightness in availability of complex (NPK) fertilizers because of low level of
    indigenous production and also as these can not be imported.

    (d): The steps taken for smooth distribution of fertilizers are as under:

    i) The movement of fertilizers is being monitored throughout the country by an
    on-line web based monitoring system (www.urvarak.co.in) also called as
    Fertiliser Monitoring System (FMS);

    ii) The subsidy on fertilizer is being paid only when it reaches the district;

    iii) Department of Fertilizers operates Bufffer Stock of Urea, DAP & MOP through
    State Institutional Agencies/ fertilizer companies in major fertilizer consuming
    States to the tune of 6.25 LMT, 3.50 LMT and 1.00 LMT respectively;

    iv) Department of Fertilizers has notified uniform freight subsidy scheme to
    transport fertilizers upto block level;

    v) The gap between requirement and indigenous availability of Urea is met
    through imports; and

    vi) New pricing policy for attracting investment in urea sector has been
    announced on 4th September, 2008. Further, fertilizer sector has been given
    highest priority in allocation of gas, for debottlenecking, expansion and revival
    projects in the country.

    6.11.09 CUMULATIVE AVAILABILITY OF FERTILISERS DURING THE YEAR 09-10 (APRIL TO OCTOBER)
    QTY. IN (`000) MTs

    State UREA DAP MOP COMPLEX

    Requirement Availability Sales Requirment Availability Sales Requirement Availability Sales Requirement Availability Sales

    Andhra Pradesh 1650.00 1503.62 1444.28 700.00 683.89 658.03 410.00 330.93 306.83 1350.00 1090.97 1040.90

    Karnataka 920.00 944.46 913.19 535.00 616.40 606.25 340.00 346.44 331.51 695.00 591.65 574.74

    Kerala 110.00 103.47 99.59 25.25 21.36 21.29 109.00 104.52 100.83 119.75 132.49 129.73

    TAMILNADU 585.00 480.78 472.48 285.00 197.37 194.64 322.00 247.29 240.40 221.00 341.72 335.61

    Gujarat 1085.00 1032.60 996.40 560.00 557.76 527.43 136.00 145.05 142.65 285.55 247.46 227.36

    Madhya Pradesh 818.29 783.10 765.12 632.26 698.68 674.86 90.59 83.97 80.05 279.67 131.32 123.10

    Chhattisgarh 456.00 421.73 413.89 143.15 190.14 187.67 67.00 59.43 57.74 107.35 66.01 64.54

    Maharashtra 1645.00 1617.34 1532.68 729.50 1052.76 1049.88 324.60 394.96 373.55 980.00 602.86 581.78

    Rajasthan 698.00 634.48 592.11 500.00 448.07 446.72 21.00 30.82 27.66 108.80 52.28 51.66

    Haryana 995.00 899.87 847.92 525.00 528.15 523.47 37.00 45.25 42.56 30.00 24.08 22.62

    Punjab 1550.00 1414.22 1340.56 650.00 660.37 358.10 71.00 75.59 62.94 50.00 38.57 34.84

    Himachal Pradesh 41.00 34.58 31.06 0.00 2.65 2.65 1.00 0.00 0.00 25.00 14.20 12.67

    Jammu & Kashmir 95.67 53.90 51.17 58.50 27.11 27.08 14.72 2.33 1.87 0.00 0.00 0.00

    Uttar Pradesh 2800.00 2774.57 2538.87 925.00 956.49 945.92 190.00 120.76 119.59 525.00 362.72 341.84

    Uttarakhand 117.50 121.26 109.41 19.00 25.90 25.72 10.00 2.65 2.65 37.50 16.45 16.18

    Bihar 1030.00 889.02 880.45 235.00 207.53 202.70 105.00 74.05 72.21 195.00 140.86 137.95

    Jharkhand 145.00 108.68 103.73 87.50 61.46 59.88 12.50 7.74 7.74 36.80 38.56 38.56

    Orissa 425.00 393.27 360.76 140.00 177.29 164.20 125.67 85.92 81.04 209.70 171.31 158.93

    West Bengal 578.77 579.11 553.02 251.30 267.05 266.74 183.90 171.53 171.51 406.50 441.16 438.05

    Assam 132.60 136.70 136.04 16.80 16.29 16.28 62.30 44.62 37.73 5.50 4.89 4.89

    All India 15969.54 14980.46 14235.77 7046.40 7403.74 7266.52 2653.22 2383.783 2271.02 5697.40 4525.63 4351.92

    Q No: 918

    Dated:
    27.11.2009

    Ministry: AGRICULTURE

    Subject: *SUICIDE BY FARMERS .

    Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

    (a) the number of farmers who committed suicide during January, 2009 to October 2009 in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra, State- wise, district-wise and month-wise;

    (b) whether cases of suicide in these States have increased due to drought situation;

    (c) if so, the details thereof; and

    (d) the measures taken by his Ministry to tackle the drought and suicide by farmers?
    Answer

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

    (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

    (a) to (d): As per information made available by the concerned State Government of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh no farmer has committed suicide due to agrarian reasons from January, 2009 to October, 2009. A statement indicating month-wise and district-wise number of suicide by farmers in the State of Andhra Pradesh, Punjab and Maharashtra is at Annexures 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The statement indicates eligible cases i.e. number of suicides due to agrarian distress.
    To address the problem of impact of deficit rainfall/draught, the Government of India took initiatives which inter-alia included, organizing a number of meetings at the level of State Chief Ministers, Agriculture Ministers and Relief Commissioners etc. to impress upon State Governments to take appropriate remedial actions to mitigate the impact of draught. States were requested to prepare alternate plan for unsown/germination failed areas with short duration/alternate crops, Use of Truthfully Labelled (TL) seeds, relaxation of age for seed varieties and distribution of minikits was allowed under the Government Programmes namely National food Security Mission (NFSM) Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY). Zonal Conference and Rabi Campaign programme with the State Governments were held to enable formulation of appropriate action plan for Rabi 2009- 10. Funds were made available under the Centrally Sponsored Programmes, like RKVY, NFSM, National Horticulture Mission(NHM), Macro Management of Agriculture(MMA), etc. to enable taking up agriculture re-construction programme. Empowered Group of Ministries (EGoM) was formed to review the conditions and take appropriate decisions to counter the impact of drought.
    In order to address the problem of the suicides by farmers, the Government of India approved in the year 2006 a rehabilitation package of Rs. 16978.69 crore for 31 suicide prone Districts spread in the four States of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala. In addition to the Rehabilitation Package, the Government of India implemented a Debt waiver and Debt Relief scheme, 2008 in all districts of the country benefiting a total of 3.01 crores small and marginal farmers and 0.67 crore other farmers. The National Policy for Farmers, 2007 has also definite provisions to improve economic viability of farming.

    Q No: 890

    Dated:
    26.11.2009

    Ministry: YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS

    Subject: PRESENT STATUS OF PREPARATION OF
    COMMONWEALTH GAMES .

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

    (a) the present status of the preparation of Commonwealth Games 2010;

    (b) whether it is fact that preparation of these games are lagging behind the schedule and there is no hope for its timely completion; and

    (c) the details of the amount sanctioned to CG-2010 till date and the details of money spent, project-wise?
    Answer
    THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF YOUTH AFFAIRS & SPORTS

    (SHRI PRATIK PRAKASHBAPU PATIL)

    (a) & (b) : After obtaining the necessary regulatory clearances from the concerned agencies, the sports infrastructure work on the different venues of the Commonwealth Games was commenced. There have been instances of delays in a few projects for which ‘Recovery Schedules’ have been prepared. It is expected that all the sports infrastructure projects will be completed in time before the Commonwealth Games, 2010.

    (c) The required details have been indicated in the Annexure.

    Q No: 816

    Dated:
    26.11.2009

    Ministry: PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND
    PENSIONS

    Subject: *CASES WITHDRAWN BY CBI .

    Will the Minister of PERSONNEL,PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS be pleased to state:-

    (a) the details of the cases withdrawn by CBI during last three years;

    (b) the reasons for withdrawal of cases by CBI during the said period, case-wise;

    (c) whether Government has decided to withdraw case against Quattrochi, the main accused in Bofors scam; and

    (d) if so, the details and reasons therefor?
    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.

    (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)

    (a)&(b): 16 cases have been withdrawn by the CBI during the last three years. The case-wise details including the reasons of withdrawal are annexed.

    (c)&(d): On the basis of CBI report and advice of Ld. Attorney General of India and Solicitor General of India, the Government has given its consent to withdraw the Court Case No.2/2002 against Ottavio Quattrocchi, accused in the Bofors case under section 321 of Cr.P.C. CBI has filed an application before the trial Court of Ld. CMM, Delhi for the purpose.

    Annexure
    STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a)&(b) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION No.816 FOR ANSWER ON 26.11.2009 SHOWING DETAILS OF CASES WITHDRAWN BY CBI DURING LAST 3 YEARS i.e. 2006, 2007, 2008 AND 2009 (UPTO 31.10.2009)

    Sl. No.
    Case No. and Date of Registration and Name of Accused
    Allegation in brief
    Date on which Court allowed Withdrawal of case
    Reasons for withdrawal
    2006
    1.
    RC.12(A)/1978
    dt. 31.8.1978
    ACB, Visakhapatnam

    P.V. Krishna, the then Dy. Regional Manager, NMDC, Visakhapatnam
    CC.6/80: The accused abusing his position as public servant obtained for himself pecuniary advantage to the extent of Rs. 2,250/- by accepting a new refrigerator 140 ltrs. costing Rs.3250/- for Rs.1,000/- only from M/s. Euhlar Engineers, VSKP.
    CC.7/80 : The accused misappropriated an amount of Rs.3,500/- obtained by him on 16.1.78 from M/s. Pathigalli Suryanarayana & Bros., VZM. as an advance towards the purchase of copper, brass and Aluminium scrap from NDMC Ltd. VSKP.
    24.4.2006
    Accused not traceable despite all efforts. Case almost 30 years old.
    2.
    RC.1/02-ACU (VII/V) dt. 14.4.02
    AC.II

    Michel Philip Pinto- IAS (Retd) (MH:66) the then Chairman, JNPT & former Secretary, M/o Shipping & Transport, New Delhi (Pvt.) & others
    The accused persons in collusion with each other caused wrongful loss to the extent of Rs.5.16 crores to Jawahar Lal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), Nhava Sheva (Maharashtra) and corresponding wrongful gain to M/s Ornate Multi Modal Carriers Ltd., Mumbai in the matter of award of contract of transportation of containers by Tractor Trolleys (TTs) for the period 2000 to 2003.
    3.4.2006
    On the representation of the petitioner, the Central Govt. has decided to withdraw the case.
    2008
    3.
    RC.22(S)/1981
    dt. 3.10.1981
    ACB Visakhapatnam

    Bhagat Ram(A4) Manager, Anoop Singh Sundarlal, Commercial Agencies, Guntur
    A1 to A4 of charge sheet are private persons and are partners of M/s. Anup Singh Sunder Lal, Commission Agents and M/s. K.V.S. Enterprises. All the accused entered into a criminal conspiracy to cheat SBI, Guntur causing loss to the tune of Rs. 49.50 lakhs.
    31.12.2008
    Three other co-accused were tried separately & acquitted on 29.10.2004. A4 is not traceable since date of registration of the case.
    4.
    RC.7(A)/1968
    dt. 1.4.1968
    ACB Bangalore

    Shri Govardhanagiri

    The accused misappropriated Rs. 2,380/- from the cash collections of the Post Office
    23.4.2008
    The accused last seen in the year 1968 and his whereabouts not known.
    5.
    RC.7(A)/1968
    dt. 1.4.1968
    ACB Bangalore

    Shri Gangadhara Mahadevappa Gotagi
    The accused prepared 40-forged postal money orders purported to have been issued by Anekal Sub Post Office, Bangalore to his address and had fraudulently received Rs. 7,500/-
    23.4.2008
    The accused not traceable and the case more than 40 years old.

    6.

    RC 1(S)/94-SIG
    Dtd 3.8.1994.
    CC No. 248/98

    Cletus Goma
    Accused Cletus Goma, a Nigerian National opened an account in the SBI, Anna Salai Branch, Madras on the basis of forged passport and cheated the bank by withdrawing Rs. 1,58,500/- after depositing two forged Demand Drafts purportedly of M/s. Thomos Cook Al Rostamani Exchange Company, Dubai amounting to Rs. 82,500/- and Rs. 80,000/-.
    25.09.2008
    The accused not traceable. India does not have extradition treaty with Nigeria.
    2009
    7.
    RCCHG1994A0019
    dated 9.5.1994
    ACB Chandigarh

    1.Shri Navpreet Virk,

    2.Shri Ranjit Oberoi

    3.Shri Ranjit Singh
    Shri N.Guru, RPO, Regional Passport Office, Chandigarh and Shri Balbir Singh Gupta, Supdt., O/o RPO, Chandigarh during the period 1992 to 1994 entered into criminal conspiracy with private persons with the object to cheat the Govt. and in pursuance of the said conspiracy the accused by abusing their official positions as servants passed and approved granting orders of the passport applications.
    11.4.2009
    Co-accused discharged by trial Court. The three persons not traceable. They, even if apprehended, would have been discharged in accordance with earlier decision of the Court.
    8.
    RC.17(S)/86-SCB Chennai
    dt. 2.11.1986
    SCB Chennai

    CC No. 2218/01

    Prem Kumar Ojha
    The accused persons entered into a criminal conspiracy and stealthily removed a cheque for Rs. 10,000/- issued to M/s Singh Brothers, Bombay, by Indian Oil Corporation, during transit. The cheque was altered for the amount of Rs.5,68,000/- and withdrawn by opening fictitious account in the name of Amar Constructions in IOB, Chindadripet, Madras.
    24.06.09
    The accused not traceable for the last 20 years.
    9.
    RC.12&15(S)/87 -SCB Chennai
    dt. 20.8.87 & 14.9.87
    CC No. 1791/02

    A.M.Bhatia and R.K.Suri
    The accused opened account in Union Bank of India, Broadway, Chennai and Canara Bank, Guindy in fictitious company names and encashed forged DDs/Cheques by depositing in the said fictitious accounts. They also intercepted a cheque issued for Rs.75/- by BPCL to M/s Deep Agencies, Mumbai sent in ordinary post and altered the amount as Rs.9,80,000/-. This forged cheque was deposited in the above said accounts and cash withdrawn. The total amount involved in this cheating is Rs. 9,80,000/-.

    01.07.09
    The accused not traceable. The case is more than 20 years old and many of the witnesses have either expired or shifted and not traceable.
    10.
    RC 6(S)/89-SCB Chennai
    dt. 03.5.1989
    CC No. 1447/91

    1) A.S.Kapadia
    2) Mrs. Chaya Tejani

    CC No. 1783/01

    1) P.P.Shetty 2) Ashish S. Kothare & 3)V.A.Kudva
    The accused persons entered into a criminal conspiracy at Madras and other places during May, 88 and July,88 and in pursuance of the conspiracy cheated the Indian Bank, Mount Road, Madras to the tune of Rs. 9.77 lakhs by way of bill discounting by producing false and forged bills. The total amount involved in this cheating is Rs.9.77 lakhs.
    6.7.09

    2.7.09 The original documents are neither available in the court nor in the office. Witnesses are not available at the given addresses in this 20 years old case. Hence, trial could not be proceeded with. 11. RC 5(S)/91-SCB Chennai dt. 15.03.91 CC No. 6471/95
    A1-V.C.Kedar, Prop. of V.C.K.Travels (Expired), A2-K. Mohamed Faizal, A3-E.Razak, A4-B. Ramachandran (Expired), A5-V. Moidu, A6-Sivasankaran Chandrababu & A7-Hasan Kattilpuram The accused persons conspired together and in pursuance of the said criminal conspiracy applied and obtained Indian Passports from RPO Madras using false and forged school certificates, No amount involved. 30.06.09 The witnesses were not available in the given addresses and prosecution unable to produce them before the court in this long pending case.
    CC No. 6472/95
    A1-V.C. Kedar, Prop. of V.C.K.Travels (Expired), A2-K. Mohamed Faizal, A3-E.Razak, A4-B. Ramachandran (Expired), A5-P. Raju, A6-V. Moidu & A7-Ambazhahan The accused persons entered into a criminal conspiracy and in pursuance of the above conspiracy applied for passports with false and fabricated school certificates and attempted for obtaining passport from RPO, Madras. 30.6.09 12. RC 3(S)/92-SCB Chennai dt. 05.02.1992 CC No. 8906/98
    P. Rathnagiri @ Giri (Pvt.) (A1), Nandakumar @ Vinod @ Radha (Pvt.)(A2), Rajasekaran (Pvt.) (A3), Pushparathinam (Pvt.) (A4) The Accused A1 had got possession of an American Credit Card of Richard E. Meshberger of USA, conspired with A2 to A4 and fabricated a passport of Republic of Malta in the name of the holder of the American Express Card Richard E. Meshberger A2 impersonating as the holder of the Card. They conspired with A5, and purchased a number of domestic air tickets of Indian Airlines to several destinations by forging the signatures of the holder of the card and thereby cheated the Indian Airlines. Amount involved is US$770 during 1992. 01.07.09 The accused persons A1 to A4 not traceable and A5 reported dead. The accused are Srilankan Nationals and efforts made could not locate them even through Interpol, Colombo as the addresses given by the accused were found false. 13. RC.6/67-ACU (VII/V) dt. 13.6.67 AC.II
    M/s. New Swadeshi Mills of Ahmedabad Ltd & others During the period from 1964 to about Aug. 1967 accused were parties to a criminal conspiracy to commit or cause to be committed offences punishable u/s 7 of the EC Act 1955 and Section 9 of Central Excise & Salt Act 1944 and that in pursuance of this conspiracy M/s New Swadesh Mills and Manjushri Textiles manufactured different varieties of cloth in contravention of various textile control orders, falsely claimed higher price for controlled cloth and evaded huge amount of excise duty. 30.3.09 Case almost 40 years old. Most of the witnesses are either dead or untraceable. 14. RC.10/66-ACU(VI) dt. 25.5.66
    Shri Jit Paul, Partner M/s. Aminchand Pyare Lal, Calcutta-1 and others The employee of M/s Aminchand Pyare Lal Calcutta entered into a criminal conspiracy and by misrepresenting facts procured false certificate from M/s. Divakaran Nanjee Banking Co. Ltd. (Now Dena Bank) and cheated the Port Commissioner of Calcutta to the tune of Rs.1,02,220.
    28.5.09 Case almost 40 years old. 6 accused out of 8 are dead. Most of the witnesses are either dead or untraceable. 15. RC 1(S)/94-SIG dated 3.8.2004 CC No. 214/2002 Ziad Ahmed Iqbal Qusaymah Accused, a Jordanian national in conspiracy with accused Khalid Walid cheated Vijaya Bank / D. K. Mehra by posing Khalid Walid as a big businessman wanted to import 10,000 goats through D. K. Mehra and fraudulently getting forged demand drafts purportedly of Thomas Cook Al Rustamani Exchange Company, Dubai encashed from Vijaya Bank, Barakhamba Road through Sh. D. K. Mehra. 8.06.2009 The accused not traceable. India does not have extradition treaty with Jordan. 16. RC 1&2 (S) /94-SIG

    (DD Fraud Case) dated 3.8.1994 & 29.9.1994. CC No. 148/02

    1. Kamal Yousef Khader Sulaiman- Jordanian national

    2. Ahmed Nazzal (Jordanian national)

    3. Ghassan Gheis Abbas (Palestenian national)

    4. Mohd. Al Alowneh (Jordanian national)

    5. Walid Machhour (Syrian national) The accused persons cheated Bank of Baroda, and Vijaya Bank by fraudulent encashment of forged demand drafts of M/s. Thomas Cook Al Rustamani Exchange Company, Dubai and M/s Habib & Al Mansoor Exchange Company, Dubai 8.06.2009 The accused persons not traceable India does not have extradition treaty with Jordan, Palestine and Syria. Accused Kamal Yousef and Ahmed Nazzal were arrested in Jordan. However, request of Government of India for their extradition was turned down by the Government of Jordan.

    Q No: 788

    Dated:
    26.11.2009

    Ministry: EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

    Subject: *CHINESE CLAIM ON ARUNACHAL PRADESH
    AND
    SIKKIM
    .

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

    (a) the number and details of Chinese intrusion in Indian territory during last two years, till date;

    (b) whether it is a fact that China has claimed over Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim; and

    (c) if so, the details thereof and the details of steps taken by Government to redress the situation?
    Answer
    THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

    (DR. SHASHI THAROOR)

    (a) to (c) China disputes the international boundary between India and China in the Eastern Sector and claims approximately 90,000 square kilometres of Indian territory in the State of Arunachal Pradesh. China does not have claims over the Indian State of Sikkim. The two countries have appointed Special Representatives to explore from the political perspective of the overall bilateral relationship the framework for a boundary settlement. There have been thirteen meetings of the Special Representatives till date. Since 1993, the two Governments have agreed to maintain peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control in the India-China border areas, without prejudice to their respective positions on the alignment of the line of actual control as well as on the boundary question. Government regularly takes up any violation along the LAC with the Chinese side through established mechanisms including the Joint Working Group, the Expert Group, border personnel meetings, flag meetings and diplomatic channels. There has been no increase in the number of incidents of Chinese intrusions.

    Q No: 759

    Dated:
    26.11.2009

    Ministry: COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION
    TECHNOLOGY

    Subject: SCAM IN ALLOCATION OF SPECTRUM .

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

    (a) whether a big scam has come to light in allocation of spectrum to telecom companies;

    (b) if so,. the details thereof;

    (c) the details of loss to public exchequer due to this scam; and

    (d) the details of the present price of spectrum and the price on which it was allocated to private companies along with the details of those companies?
    Answer
    THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

    (SHRI GURUDAS KAMAT)

    (a) to (c) Initial / start-up spectrum is allotted as per the conditions of the UAS License and additional spectrum as per the criteria existing in force from time to time, subject to availability.

    The allocation and issuance of spectrum licences are made continuously as per the existing policy in force and also as per the recommendations of TRAI.

    However, on allegation of irregularities in the award of UAS Licenses to private companies, CBI registered a case on 21.10.2009 against unknown officials of DOT, unknown private persons/companies and others under section 120-B IPC r/w section 13 (2) r/w 13(1) d of PC Act. CBI conducted a search on 22.10.2009 in some offices of DOT and has taken custody of certain files relating to policy, issuance of UAS licenses and spectrum.

    (d) The UAS Licence is granted at a pan India price of Rs 1658 crores. The UAS Licence mandates grant of spectrum, subject to availability. Annual spectrum charges are being levied as a percentage of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) from telecom operators. Current Spectrum charging rates for the allotment of 2G spectrum is given in as Annexure-I. Details of allotted spectrum to UAS Licensees as on date along with applicable spectrum charging rates on their spectrum holding is given in as Annexure-II. ru0759annexure.htm

    Q No: 97

    Dated:
    25.11.2009

    Ministry: COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

    Subject: DONATION TO A POLITICAL PARTY BY PSUS

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

    (a) whether it is a fact that during 2007-08, State Trading Corporation (STC) and Minerals and Metals Trading Corporation (MMTC) gave donations to political parties;

    (b) if so, the details thereof;

    (c) whether Government companies like STC and MMTC can give public money to political parties as donations;

    (d) if so, under what authority; and

    (e) if not, the action taken or proposed to be taken against guilty persons?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

    (SHRI ANAND SHARMA)

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

    STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 97 FOR ANSWER ON 25TH NOVEMBER 2009 REGARDING “DONATION TO A POLITICAL PARTY BY PSUs ”

    (a)&(b) MMTC and STC did not give donation during 2007-08 to any political party which figured in the list of Recognised National/State parties or in the list of Registered Unrecognised Parties maintained by the Election Commission of India as available in their compilation “Political Parties and Election Symbols” on their official website. However, National Students Union of India (NSUI) made a request in January, 2007 to both the organisations to contribute for conducting a quiz programme as part of the nation-wide campaign as Centenary Celebrations of Satyagraha. The programme envisaged organizing quiz shows along with cultural performances in various universities across the country. For this, NSUI had identified 44 important universities classified into six different zones and the total number of quiz shows to be organized was indicated to be 52 in number. NSUI had also indicated confirmed participation from some well known social, political, film, academics and media luminaries. They had provided the details of organizing one quiz competition at Rs. 2.52 lakhs and requested for suitable contributions from both the organisations. MMTC and STC both provided Rs. 1 lakh each to NSUI as part of cost of organising the programme. However, it has been noticed that while filing the return with the Election Commission of India for the year 2007-08, All India Congress Committee has reflected this contribution as a part of the donations received by the party Indian National Congress for the financial year 2007-08 as required under section 29C(1) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

    (c)&(d) No, Sir.

    (e) Does not arise as both the organisations did not contribute any donation to any political party and NSUI does not appear in the list of Recognised National/State parties or in the list of Registered Unrecognised Parties maintained by the Election Commission of India as available in their compilation “Political Parties and Election Symbols” on their official website.

    Q No: 553

    Dated:
    24.11.2009

    Ministry: PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS

    Subject: FIRE IN IOC DEPOT AT JAIPUR

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

    (a): the number of dead and injured people and the amount of property destroyed by fire which broke out in Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) oil depot in Jaipur;

    (b): whether the family of dead and injured people has been compensated;

    (c): if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;

    (d): whether the fire was due to human error;

    (e): whether a committee would be constituted to investigate the reasons of the fire; and

    (f) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by Government for the security of oil depot?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS

    (SHRI JITIN PRASADA)

    (a): 11 deaths have been confirmed of which 06 are employees of IOC. 07 persons have suffered serious injuries. 28 persons have suffered minor injuries, in the fire incident of IOC oil depot at Jaipur.

    (b) & (c): Details of compensation package are as under :

    Types of cases No. of cases Announced by State Govt. Disbursed by State Govt.Announced by IOC Disbursed by IOC Death
    11 (includes 6 cases of IOC employees Rs. 2.0 Lakh/case
    1 of public and 6 of IOC Rs. 10.00 Lakh /case
    1 of publicMajor injury 7 Rs. 1.0 Lakh / case
    7
    Rs. 2.0 Lakh / case
    17 Minor Injury 28 Rs. 0.50 Lakh/case
    28Rs. 1.0 lakh/case
    19

    Out of 11 cases(including 6 cases of IOC employees) of death, State Govt. has not been able to disburse to the next of kin in 4 cases as one victim is unidentified and in 3 cases, next of kin is not yet finalized.

    For the 6 deceased persons of IOC, compensation has been given in line with the corporation policy, which is 100 times of basic pay and dearness allowance.

    Out of 28 cases of minor injury cases, IOC could disburse to 19 cases and for the balance 9 cases, due to incomplete / inaccurate address, compensation could not be disbursed. Correct address of these persons to be provided by state government.

    (d) to (f): A seven member inquiry committee under the chairmanship of Shri M.B. Lal, Technical Member (P&NG), Appellate Tribunal for Electricity and Ex-Chairman & Managing Director of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited was constituted by the Ministry on 30.10.2009 to inquire into the causes of the incident and to suggest remedial measures to prevent recurrence of such incidents. The committee will submit its report within 60 days. Preliminary findings have indicated that there was massive leakage of Motor Spirit (MS) from the valve of one of the tank, which let formation of vapour cloud. Spark from an unknown source resulted in explosion of the vapour cloud, which started the fire in all the 11 tanks of the depot.

    In order to take preventive steps so that such incidents do not occur in future, the Ministry had convened a meeting on 3.11.2009, to review the safety and security at oil & gas installations in the country, which was attended by the Chief Executive Officers of all public and major private oil companies having installations in the country. It was decided that the following actions will be taken:

    1. All companies shall take measures to promote safety consciousness and training on safety requirement at all levels. The message of zero tolerance in matters of safety has to be conveyed to all concerned.

    2. All oil and gas installations and transportation systems in the country will carry out self safety audit conforming to statutory norms and risk assessment, including Oil Industry Safety Directorate (OISD) standards by 31.12.2009. Oil companies will submit the reports to OISD which in turn will submit a consolidated report to MOPNG.

    3. The decision taken in the 27th Meeting of safety Council held on 18th September 2009 in MOPNG regarding empowerment of OISD with statutory status would be expedited. OISD will be further strengthened with additional manpower from oil companies.

    4. The Safety Council be expanded to include private sector refineries and offshore & other installations.

    5. All oil and gas companies in the country must update their standard operating procedures (SOPs) for operations and maintenance practices for all countrywide installations / setups under due technical supervision and attention, availing the benefit of best practices in the country and abroad. A strict implementation of such Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs) will be ensured. All oil and gas companies will submit reports on SOPs and its due implementation to OISD by 31.12.2009.
    6. All oil and gas installations will have their safety audit done on quarterly basis. All major as well as minor incidents in any such installations/setups in the country including that of private companies will be reported to OISD.

    Q No: 522

    Dated:
    24.11.2009

    Ministry: HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

    Subject: CASES OF SWINE FLU.

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

    (a) the details of cases of Swine Flu registered till date, State-wise;

    (b) the number of deaths due to Swine Flu till date, State-wise;

    (c) whether it is a fact that Government has not been able to check this epidemic;

    (d) if so, the reasons therefor; and

    (e) the steps being taken so far by Government to check the Swine Flu?
    Answer

    THE MINSITER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

    (SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

    (a) The number of laboratory confirmed cases and deaths of Pandemic influenza A (H1N1) [as on 20.11.2009], State-wise is annexed.

    (c) & (d) No.

    (e) Government of India took a series of actions. A comprehensive plan including guidelines and standard operating procedures were put in place.

    Entry screening of passengers is continuing at 22 international airports and five international checkpoints. 28 Thermal Scanners have been installed at major international airports. Those found to be suspected of H1N1 were isolated and treated. All their contacts were traced and put on chemoprophylaxis to prevent further spread.

    Community surveillance to detect clusters of influenza like illness is being done through Integrated Disease Surveillance Project. Laboratory network has been strengthened and States allocated to different laboratories. There are 42 laboratories (24 in Govt. Sector and 18 in Private Sector) testing the clinical samples. Central teams were deputed to the states of Punjab, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala to contain the disease.

    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. 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. IMA has been provided funds to train private practitioners.

    All States have been requested to gear up the State machinery, open large number of screening centres and strengthen isolation facilities and critical care facilities at district level.

    A task force in the I&B Ministry is implementing the media plan. Travel advisory, do’s and don’ts and other pertinent information on non pharmaceutical interventions to prevent the spread has been widely published in print media and shown in visual media on regular basis. This has been translated to 14 languages and given to the States. Information is also provided on the website: http://mohfw-h1n1.nic.in.

    Government of India is monitoring the situation on daily basis.

    Q No: 503

    Dated:
    24.11.2009

    Ministry: HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

    Subject: *ADULTERATION OF MILK .

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

    (a) the number of cases of adulterated and synthetic milk, ghee, khoya, paneer etc. came to light from October, 2008 to October, 2009, State-wise;

    (b) the number of guilty people arrested during the said period and the number of people punished therefor along with the punishment given State-wise; and

    (c) the steps being taken by Government in this regard for good health of common people?
    Answer
    THE MINSITER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

    (SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

    (a)& (b)The implementation of the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 and Rules, 1955 is entrusted to the Food (Health) Authorities of the States/U.Ts. Samples of various foods are taken regularly by the State/U.T. Governments and action is taken from time to time in cases of adulterated food. The details of number of cases of adulterated and synthetic milk etc. and number of guilty people arrested and punished are not maintained centrally.

    (c) The Central Government has issued instructions from time to time to Food (Health) Authorities of the States/U.Ts, who are responsible for implementation of Prevention of Food Adulteration Act in their State and U.T to keep a strict vigil on the quality of milk and milk products and take necessary preventive action under the provision of PFA Act, 1954 and Rules 1955 made there under.

    Q No: 66

    Dated:
    24.11.2009

    Ministry: RURAL DEVELOPMENT

    Subject: *COMPLAINTS REGARDING NREGS

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

    (a) whether complaints regarding National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) have been received by Government from various States;

    (b) if so, the number and nature of complaints received so far from various States, State-wise; and;

    (c) the details of measures adopted by Government to redress these complaints?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT

    (DR. C.P. JOSHI)

    (a) to (c) : A statement is laid on the table of the house.

    Statement as referred to in reply to parts (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 66 for answer on 24.11.2009

    (a)&(b): Yes, Sir. Since inception of NREGA, a total of 1010 complaints relating to irregularities in the implementation of NREGA have been received in the Ministry of Rural Development. The State wise details are given in the Annexure.

    The complaints mainly relate to delayed payment of wages, instances of use of funds for non-permissible activities, incorrect accounting of expenditure, use of machinery, non-issuance of job cards and ineligible persons being provided employment under the Act.

    (c) The measures taken by the Ministry to redress the complaints are as under:

    (i) All complaints received in the Ministry are referred to the concerned State Government for taking appropriate action in accordance with the provisions of the Act. For investigation into complaints of serious nature, National Level Monitors (NLMs) are deputed by the Ministry to the concerned district/State and their reports are shared with the concerned State Government for taking corrective measures.

    (ii) Orders dated 7.9.2009 have been issued directing all State Governments for setting up of the office of Ombudsman at district level for redressal of grievances in a time bound manner.

    (iii) The Ministry has accorded utmost importance to the organization of Social Audits by the Gram Panchayats and issued instructions to the States to make necessary arrangements for the purpose. Modifications have been made in para 13 of Schedule-I of the Act to provide for procedures on conducting social audits. The Ministry has issued instructions to the State Governments for enforcement of the new social audit provisions under NREGA.

    Annexure as referred to in reply to part (a) & (b) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 66 for answer on 24.11.09.

    Sl.No. State No. of complaints received so far
    1 Andhra Pradesh 12
    2 Assam 24
    3 Bihar 103
    4 Chhattisgarh 28
    5 Gujarat 10
    6 Himachal Pradesh 11
    7 Haryana 22
    8 Jharkhand 67
    9 Karnataka 4
    10 Kerala 1
    11 Madhya Pradesh 158
    12 Maharashtra 14
    13 Manipur 4
    14 Nagaland 3
    15 Orissa 27
    16 Punjab 8
    17 Rajasthan 138
    18 Tamil Nadu 6
    19 Tripura 2
    20 Uttar Pradesh 337
    21 Uttrakhand 7
    22 West Bengal 24
    Total 1010

    Q No: 328

    Dated:
    23.11.2009

    Ministry: ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

    Subject: TIGER MORTALITY

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

    (a) the number of tigers died due to illness/poaching during the last two years, till date;

    (b) the details of the poachers booked/arrested/sentenced during the above period; and

    (c) the steps taken to save tigers from poachers?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

    (SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

    (a) The details of tiger mortality, as reported by tiger States, are at Annexure-I.

    (b) The enforcement of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is done by States, hence information on poachers booked / arrested / sentenced is not collated at the Government of India level.

    (c) The milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection of tigers and other wildlife are at Annexure-II.

    Q No: 49

    Dated:
    23.11.2009

    Ministry: ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

    Subject: *POLLUTION DUE TO FLEX HOARDINGS .

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

    (a) whether Government is aware of the fact that flex material used in hoardings is causing pollution;

    (b) if so, the details thereof;

    (c) whether Government is considering to ban use of this material;

    (d) if so, the details thereof; and

    (e) if not, the reasons therefor?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS

    (SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

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

    STATEMENT referred to in REPLY to RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 49 DUE FOR REPLY ON 23.11.2009 raised by SHRI NAND KISHORE YADAV AND SHRI KAMAL AKHTAR regarding `POLLUTION DUE TO FLEX HOARDINGS`

    (a)& (b) Flex material is composed of soft poly vinyl chloride (PVC) coated on polyster fabric. It is widely used in the word in hoardings for advertisement purpose. After the intended application, i.e. advertisement, the flex material is often reused in India for water proofing of shelters like huts. The used flex sheets are also recycled to provide resource for manufacturing alternate products of use. Used flex sheets can also be co-processed in cement kilns.

    Flex material used in hoardings does not cause environmental pollution as such. Flex sheets are generally not disposed of as a waste in sanitary landfills. However, torn sheets may sometimes find their way to such landfills. In such cases, the management of flex material is governed under the Municipal Solid Wastes ( Management and Handling ) Rules, 2000.

    (c ) to (e) The Government is not considering a ban on use of flex material in hoardings since the material is recyclable and has not been observed to cause environment pollution.

    Q No: 221

    Dated:
    20.11.2009

    Ministry: HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

    Subject: ENQUIRY COMMITTEES ON DEEMED
    UNIVERSITIES.

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

    (a) whether two Enquiry Committees were constituted to enquire into the standard of Deemed Universities;

    (b) if so, the details thereof;

    (c) whether these Enquiry Committees have submitted their reports to Government;

    (d) if so, the details thereof alongwith the recommendations of both Committees, separately; and

    (e) the details of action taken/proposed to be taken by Government in this regard?
    Answer

    MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

    (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

    (a) to (e): The Government has constituted a Committee to review the functioning of the existing institutions ‘deemed to be universities’ to ensure that standards of higher education and research are maintained by such institutions so as to justify their continuance as institutions ‘deemed to be universities’. The Review Committee included the following persons:

    (i) Professor P.N. Tandon, Professor Emiretus Department of Neurosurgery, AIIMS, New Delhi … Member

    (ii) Professor Govardhan Mehta, Chairman NAAC and former Director IIScE Bangalore Member

    (iii) Professor Anandakrishnan, Chairman IIT Kanpur … Member

    (iv) Professor Mrinal Miri, Former Vice Chancellor NEHU … Member

    (v) Additional Secretary (Higher Education) OR Joint Secretary (Higher Education) … Convener
    The Review Committee has submitted its report, which is under active consideration of the Government. The University Grants Commission has also been asked to take up review of the functioning of all the ‘deemed to be universities’ with regard to the availability of the qualified faculty and the infrastructure in the ‘deemed to be universities’. The process of review by the University Grants Commission is yet to be completed.

    Q No: 176

    Dated:
    20.11.2009

    Ministry: CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC
    DISTRIBUTION

    Subject: PRICE RISE OF ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES.

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

    (a) whether Government is aware that prices of essential commodities are rising continuously;

    (b) if so, the details of the prices of essential items increased since last one year till date, item-wise and month-wise;

    (c) Whether Government is taking any step to effectively control the price rise in the interest of common man;

    (d) whether Government is considering to make available wheat, onion, oil and other essential items in retail stores throughout the country to control the price rise; and

    (e) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?
    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): Yes Sir.

    (b): The details of the prices of essential items since last one year till date, item-wise and month-wise is given in Annexure I;

    (c): The Government Measures to check the prices of essential commodities are given in Annexure II.

    (d) and (e): The Government will release 30 lakh tonnes of tonnes of rice under OMSS (D) scheme for September to December 2009. Allocation of 10 lakh tonnes of wheat and 5 lakh tonnes of rice to State Governments has been made. In addition 5 lakh tonnes of wheat for sale by FCI to bulk consumers through tenders has been made. The wheat and rice allocated to the States is to be distributed through Corporations/Cooperatives/ Federations/Self-helped groups or any other Government or semi- Government organizations of States/UTs. The State Governments is also allowed to sell wheat to small processors of wheat like chakkies, bakeries. Quantity and rates of allocation to State Governments and lifting position by States is enclosed at Annexure III.

    Q No: 39

    Dated:
    20.11.2009

    Ministry: RAILWAYS

    Subject: *MAINTENANCE OF RECORD OF RESERVATION
    REQUISITION .

    Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-
    to answer to Unstarred Question 3786 given in the Rajya Sabha on 7th August, 2009 and state:

    (a) whether as per orders issued by her Ministry vide letter No.94/TG-1/20/P/8, dated 2nd August, 1994 and 98/TG-1/14/P dated 23rd April 1998 regarding preservation and maintenance of reservation requisitions and release of emergency/HOR quota for waitlisted tickets, all zones, divisions and HQ should maintain proper records in this regard;

    (b) whether these orders are not followed properly by Railways;

    (c) if so, the reasons for violation of its own orders; and

    (d) if not, the reasons why the House was denied information in answer to Part

    (d) of Unstarred Question 3786 while some of the RTIs reveal that record is maintained? ANSWER
    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. 39 BY SHRI NAND KISHORE YADAV AND SHRI KAMAL AKHTAR TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 20.11.2009 REGARDING MAINTENANCE OF RECORD OF RESERVATION REQUISITION

    (a) to (c): Instructions issued vide letter No.94/TG-1/20/P/8 dated 02.08.1994 refers to reservation requisitions, which are submitted at reservation counters seeking booking of berths, for which the period of preservation is six months, except in those cases where some action is under process. Instructions issued vide letter No. 98/TG-1/14/P dated 23rd April 1998 refers to the requisitions given for confirmation of berths out of emergency quota for which the period of preservation is three months from the date of journey. Zonal Railways are required to preserve these records for the period prescribed above.

    (d): In part(d) of the Unstarred Question No.3786 replied on 07-08-2009, the reference was to reservation requisitions received by all Divisions and Zones and reservations confirmed against them for a specified period. It may be appreciated that Railway is a vast organisation and approximately six lakh reservation requisitions are received every day. The records of these requisitions are preserved for the prescribed period. However, because of such large number of reservation requisitions received every day, details of such data are not compiled. Specific records, in individual cases, are however, made available on demand. While no specific RTI case has been mentioned, it is possible that at some location, information in an individual case would have been compiled when sought for under Right to Information Act. It is humbly stated that the reply to part (d) of unstarred Parliament Question No.3786 dated 7th August 2009 was based on the available facts.

    Q No: 18

    Dated:
    19.11.2009

    Ministry: COMMUNICATION AND
    INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

    Subject: PLIGHT OF SCIENTISTS OF
    NIC

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

    (a) whether Government is aware that many scientists of NIC working as District Information Officer at various districts have been facing lot of problems due to absence of a proper Human Resource policy in NIC;

    (b) whether Government is also aware that these officers have been posted at same place for over 10 years without transfers though they have represented on this several times and some MPs have written to the Minister in this regard;

    (c) if so, the action taken; and

    (d) if not, the reasons therefore?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

    (SHRI SACHIN PILOT)

    (a): The National Informatics Centre (NIC) is an Scientific & Technical organization and career progression of its S&T personnel is governed by the Department of Personnel & Training, Government of India as per Flexible Complementing Scheme and guidelines issued from time to time.

    (b): As a policy NIC plans for transfer of 5% of the total technical manpower posted in NIC. NIC Scientists have a set of professional skill which require them to stay in that job, hence, NIC has some officers posted in the same place for more than 10 years. Based on the vacancy and specific requirements transfer requests over and above the normal transfer is also accepted as per the requests. However, due to shortage of manpower it is not always possible to meet the demand. The officers posted in various NIC Centres including District Centres possess the domain expertise and the user departments / District Administrations become handicapped in the event of officers` transfer from their place of posting to other NIC location/other districts etc. However, keeping in view the interest of the organization and employees concerned, the officials are considered for transfer to NIC State Units or other District Centres of NIC in public interest and on compassionate ground ensuring that in the event of the transfer of officers, the day to day work in the NIC Centres including District Centres and State Units does not get effected.

    (c) and (d): Do not arise.

    Q No: 17

    Dated:
    19.11.2009

    Ministry: URBAN DEVELOPMENT

    Subject: *ACCIDENTS IN DELHI
    METRO

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

    (a) the details of the accidents that occurred in Delhi Metro since last one year, till date;

    (b) the details of the persons died/injured, accident-wise, till date;

    (c) whether any ex-gratia payments have been made to kin of deceased/injured;

    (d) if so, the details thereof;

    (e) whether these accidents occurred due to the irregularities as mentioned in Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report; and

    (f) if so, the details thereof and the action taken thereon?
    Answer
    MINISTER OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT

    (SHRI S.JAIPAL REDDY)

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

    STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.17 FOR 19.11.2009 REGARDING ACCIDENTS IN DELHI METRO.

    (a) & (b): The details of the accidents that occurred in Delhi Metro since last one year and the details of the persons died/injured, accident-wise as furnished by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) Ltd. are given in Annexure-I.

    (c) & (d): The details of ex-gratia payment made to the kins of the deceased and injured are given in Annexure-II and Annexure-III respectively.

    (e): Performance Audit Report of the Comptroller & Auditor General (CAG) is on the implementation of Phase I of the Delhi Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) by DMRC and is not concerned with construction of Phase II of Delhi MRTS Project.

    (f): Does not arise.

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