No. of qoustions found: 45
|
4179 |
UNSTARRED |
04.05.2010 |
FINANCE |
*PAYMENT |
4179. SHRI D. RAJA
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that some insurance companies are paying illegal one time commission to the general public for referring prospective customers;
(b) if so, whether it is also a fact that the practice of engaging such lead generators and payments are illegal as the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) says only license agents can receive such commission; and
(c) if so, what action is being taken against such insurance companies for violation of IRDA rules and to plug the loopholes, if any, in the IRDA guidelines?
Answer
Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance
Shri Namo Narain Meena
(a) to (c): The information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House.
|
4158 |
UNSTARRED |
04.05.2010 |
CIVIL AVIATION |
CONTRACT BASIS EMPLOYEES IN AIR INDIA |
4158. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the employees of the Air India Air Transport Services Ltd. (AIATSL) and Air India Chatters Ltd. (AICL) are selected as per the usual selection process of the Central Government organizations but finally appointed on contract basis; and
(b) if so, what is the total number of employees of AIATSL and AICL and what are the reasons for treating them as contract workers discriminating them against the permanent employees of Air India?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION
( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )
(a) and (b): The employees of AIATSL and AICL are selected on the basis of a selection process specific for the post. These employees are engaged on a fixed term contract basis for a specified period keeping in view the operational requirement. Total number of employees engaged in AIATSL as on 1.4.2010 is 1079 and in AICL as on 31.12.2009 is 943.
|
559 |
STARRED |
04.05.2010 |
CIVIL AVIATION |
TRAINING FOR AIR INDIA STAFF |
559. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the staff of Ground Services Department (GSD) traffic and security of Air India are performing various duties without proper training and rest; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and what steps are being taken to provide them regular training and other amenities such as proper rest after night duties, rest room particularly for ladies staff etc.?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION
( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )
(a)and (b): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PARTs (a) AND (b) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.559 FOR ANSWERED ON 04/05/2010 TABLED BY SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN, MP REGARDING TRAINING FOR AIR INDIA STAFF
(a) and (b): No, Sir. Employees of Air India working in Ground Handling, Traffic and Security Departments are trained adequately and continuously for doing their jobs effectively.
The mandatory minimum gap of 11 hours is always maintained as per the regulations while rostering staff for the shift. Adquate rest rooms for both male and female staff are provide.
|
3884 |
UNSTARRED |
30.04.2010 |
CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION |
*FAILURE OF PDS |
3884. SHRIMATI SHOBHANA BHARTIA
M.P. ACHUTHAN D. RAJA T. SUBBARAMI REDDY B.K. HARIPRASAD
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Central Vigilance Committee appointed by the Supreme Court has recently slammed the Public Distribution System as one of the most corrupt schemes in the country;
(b) if so, the facts thereof and whether the root causes of the failure of PDS in several States have been ascertained;
(c) if so, the details thereof;
(d) whether in view of the CVC report on the poor functioning of PDS, the Union Government proposes to take any steps to evaluate and improve the functioning of the PDS; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
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) to (e): The Central Vigilance Committee (CVC), set up by Hon’ble Supreme Court in the context of Writ Petition no. 196/2001 to study functioning of Public Distribution System (PDS), has submitted its reports to the Hon’ble Supreme Court in respect of 12 States/UTs, namely, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Orissa, Rajasthan, Kerala and Uttarakhand as well as a report on Computerisation of Public Distribution System (PDS) operations.
Central Vigilance Committee has referred to certain deficiencies/shortcomings in the functioning of TPDS and has made recommendations for strengthening of TPDS. The reports of the Committee relating to States/UTs have been sent to concerned State/UT Governments to examine and send comments along with their action taken report.
Government has issued directions to State Governments to streamline functioning of TPDS by enforcing provisions of PDS (Control) Order, 2001. Besides this, the Government has also issued instructions to States/Union Territories to strengthen Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) by improving monitoring mechanism and vigilance, increased transparency in functioning of TPDS, use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools and improving the efficiency of Fair Price Shop operations.
|
3394 |
UNSTARRED |
27.04.2010 |
FINANCE |
NUTRIENT BASEDSUBSIDY REGIME |
3394. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-
(a) Whether Government has approved a new Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) regime for fertilizer replacing the age-old product based subsidy regime; and
(b) If so, the salient features of the new regime and the amount of subsidy expected to be saved by Government thereby?
Answer
SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA Minister of State in Ministry of Finance
(a) Yes sir.
(b) SALIENT FEATURES:
(i) On February 18, 2010 the Cabinet approved implementation of the Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Policy on decontrolled Phosphatic & Potassic fertilizers with effect from 1st April, 2010.
(ii) In terms of this policy, the subsidy on the nutrients `N` – Nitrogen, `P` – Phosphorus, `K` – Potash and `S` – Sulphur contents would be fixed on an annual basis. In addition to the fixed subsidy on above mentioned nutrients, there will be an additional per tonne subsidy for subsidized fertilizer carrying other secondary nutrients and micro nutrients in formulations approved under FCO 1985.
(iii) The NBS regime is expected to promote balanced fertilization and consequently increase agriculture productivity in the country through higher usage of secondary and micro nutrients. It is also expected that new innovative fertilizer products would be developed subsequently under the NBS regime to meet the different requirements of Indian agriculture, the NBS regime` is expected to depict the actual demand of fertilizers in the country and promote realistic pricing of fertilizer products in the international market. Unshackling of fertilizer industry is also expected to attract fresh investments in this sector.
(iv) It has also been decided to constitute an Inter-Ministerial Committee under the Chairmanship of Secretary (Fertilizers) to examine various scenarios and make recommendations for finalization of per nutrient subsidy to the Government under the proposed Policy.
(v) Urea which has the maximum tonnage consumed nitrogenous fertilizers in the country will continue to be under the current MRP regime.
(vi) It is to be noted that a shift to Nutrient Based Subsidy does not, by itself, bring down (or increase) the quantum of subsidy.
|
3113 |
UNSTARRED |
23.04.2010 |
CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION |
PENDING DUES OF SUGAR MILLERS TO FARMERS OF U.P. |
3113. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
R.C. SINGH
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the dues of sugar millers in Uttar Pradesh to farmers have piled up in excess of Rs. 1000 crore during the current season; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?
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 Cane Commissioner, Government of Uttar Pradesh has reported that, for the sugar season 2009-10, out of the total cane price payable of Rs.13046.52 crore, a sum of Rs.11761 crore stands paid leaving a balance of Rs.1285.52 crore, as on 15.04.2010. However, the total cane price payable within 14 days is Rs. 12623.92 crore, out of which Rs. 11761.00 crore has been paid leaving a cane price arrears of Rs. 862.92 crore. The Cane Commissioner has also informed that recent decline in sugar prices has affected the capacity of the Sugar Mills to pay cane price.
|
3073 |
UNSTARRED |
23.04.2010 |
AGRICULTURE |
*KUTTANAD PACKAGE OF KERALA |
3073. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that Government of Kerala had submitted two proposals under the Kuttanad package, namely commercial small scale dairying in Kuttanad at Rs. 5.85 crore and sustainable livestock development for Kuttanad at Rs. 13.10 crore;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the amount sanctioned as central assistance to these proposals; and
(c) the amount of first instalment released and by when the second instalment is expected to be released?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
(SHRI K.V. THOMAS)
(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. Project proposal on Commercial Small Scale Dairy Units with emphasis on Production and Marketing of Milk and Value Added Milk Products in Kuttanad involving total project cost of Rs.5.85 crore envisages bank loan of Rs. 2.88 crore and assistance of Rs.2.97 crore. Project proposal on Sustainable Livestock Resource Development of Kuttanad involving total project cost of Rs.13.10 crore envisages bank loan of Rs.7.86 crore and assistance of Rs.5.24 crore. Government of India has sanctioned these project proposals with a cost of Rs.5.85 crore.
(c): For implementation of the above proposals Government of India has so far released Rs.5.23 crore. Further release of funds would be made after the receipt of the utilization certificate and progress report from the Government of Kerala.
|
409 |
STARRED |
23.04.2010 |
AGRICULTURE |
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES IN |
409. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the National Horticulture Mission has stopped financial assistance for cultivation of vegetables in Kerala since 2007-08;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and
(c) whether the State Government has requested the Centre to continue the financial assistance for vegetable cultivation in the State as there is a large gap between demand and supply and there is a large potential for cultivation of vegetables?
Answer
MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE
(SHRI SHARAD PAWAR)
(a) to (c): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF PARTS (a) TO (c) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 409 FOR 23/04/2010 REGARDING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES IN KERALA.
(a) to (c): Financial assistance for cultivation of vegetables in open fields is not admissible under National Horticulture Mission (NHM). However, assistance under NHM is admissible for vegetable seed production, organic farming of vegetables and for setting up of vegetable seed infrastructure to facilitate proper handling, storage and packaging of vegetable seeds. The request of the State Horticulture Mission (SHM), Kerala for financial assistance for cultivation of vegetables in open fields in 2007-08 and 2008-09 was not agreed to as this activity is not admissible under NHM. However, the Annual Action Plan for Kerala under NHM for 2007-08 was approved with an outlay of Rs.192.13 crores, which included an amount of Rs.0.15 crore for vegetable seed production and Rs.8.00 crore for organic farming. Similarly, the Annual Action Plan for Kerala for 2008- 09 was approved with an outlay of Rs.174.20 crores, which included an amount of Rs.0.32 crore for vegetable seed production and Rs.8.00 crore for organic farming. Further, the proposal of SHM, Kerala for sanction of an export oriented project for cultivation of vegetables, fruits and flowers in six districts around Cochin has been agreed to during 2009-10 under the innovative component of NHM with an outlay of Rs.1254.50 lakh, which includes Rs.225 lakh for vegetable cultivation in 3000 hectare.
|
3026 |
UNSTARRED |
22.04.2010 |
URBAN DEVELOPMENT |
*NO. FINANCIAL VIABILITY OF KOCHI METRO |
3026. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of URBAN DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the Union Finance Ministry has pointed out that the proposed Kochi Metro will not be financially viable under the current plan; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction as to the implementation of the project?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT
(SHRI SAUGATA ROY)
(a) & (b): The project has not yet been approved and the same is under consideration by the Government.
|
2908 |
UNSTARRED |
21.04.2010 |
TEXTILES |
*REVIVAL OF NTC SHOWROOMS |
2908. SHRI D. RAJA
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the National Textile Corporation has a plan to revamp its now defunct showroom in different parts of the country; and
(b) the details of the showrooms of NTC in different States and the showrooms chosen for revival in the first stage?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES
(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)
(a) & (b): The National Textile Corporation (NTC) has 92 showrooms in different parts of the country as per list at Annexure-I. The Company is in the process of formulating a plan for revamping some of its showrooms.
ANNEXURE 1
List of NTC Showrooms
SL.NO. STATE / UNION TERRITORY NO. OF SHOWROOMS
1 Andhra Pradesh 2
2 Tamil Nadu 22
3 Karnataka 7
4 Kerala 4
5 Maharashtra 6
6 Gujarat 4
7 Delhi 10
8 Haryana 3
9 Chandigarh (U.T) 1
10 Punjab 1
11 Uttar Pradesh 1
12 Jammu & Kashmir 2
13 Rajasthan 8
14 Himachal Pradesh 1
15 Madhya Pradesh 2
16 Jharkhand 2
17 West Bengal 7
18 Orissa 2
19 Assam 1
20 Bihar 6
TOTAL 92
|
2905 |
UNSTARRED |
21.04.2010 |
TEXTILES |
*FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF NTC MILLS |
2905. SHRI D. RAJA
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-
(a) what are the details of the National Textile Corporation (NTC) mills in different States and the financial performance of each of them during the last three years;
(b) whether Government has any plan to revive the closed sick NTC mills; and
(c) if so, the details of the revival plan?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES
(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)
(a): The details and financial performance of the working NTC mills during the last three years is indicated in Annexure-1.
(b): No Sir, there is no plan to revive the closed unviable mills of NTC.
(c): Does not arise in view of the above.
ANNEXURE 1 REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2905 FOR ANSWER ON 21.4.2010.
2007-2008 2008-09 2009-2010 (Prov.)
SL.
No. Statewise Name of Total Income Net Cont. Cash Profit/ Total Income Net Cont. Cash Profit/ Total Income Net Cont. Cash Profit/
Mills
Rs. Lakhs as % of Loss Rs. Lakhs as % of Loss Rs. Lakhs as % of Loss Wages/ Salaries Rs. Lakhs Wages/
Salaries Rs. Lakhs Wages/ Salaries Rs. Lakhs
1 Alagappa 2242.00 63.86 -223.00 2701.66 64.74 -228.65 3246.33 94.02 -49.93
2 Cannanore S&W mills, 2193.00 62.07 -233.00 1272.20 60.44 -154.81 1603.15 70.82 -122.55
3 Kerala Lakshmi 1668.00 30.24 -357.00 2130.04 55.74 -251.08 2536.56 80.56 -120.41
4 Vijay Mohini 2253.00 34.69 -224.00 832.17 22.47 -264.41 1839.54 87.62 -58.12
MAHE
5 Cannanore Spg.& 1136.00 43.95 -240.00 624.14 22.86 -278.97 1556.13 84.14 -84.69
Wvg. Mills.
ANDHRA PRADESH
6 Tirupathi 772.00 60.56 -63.00 1082.59 92.21 -19.26 1068.87 84.07 -41.33
TAMIL NADU
7 Cambodia 2087.00 47.25 -323.00 2198.53 46.84 -259.33 2905.90 88.61 -80.38
8 Rangavilas 2220.00 60.46 -235.00 2322.77 58.60 -251.01 3511.73 81.05 -146.28
9 Pankaja 1765.00 59.42 -209.00 1572.61 44.33 -268.88 2560.60 85.45 -99.22
10 Pioneer 1614.00 43.06 -216.00 1673.15 45.61 -198.70 2312.34 84.66 -83.10
11 Kaleeswarar`B` 2573.00 79.72 -123.00 2128.04 58.20 -199.73 2788.41 99.87 -15.12
12 Coimbatore Murugan 3164.00 86.09 -99.00 4855.41 87.96 -90.68 5537.35 102.48 18.94
13 Coimbatore S&W 1648.00 24.68 -376.00 1608.20 17.34 -423.34 1150.75 22.94 -381.57
MAHARASHTRA
14 Tata 2481.00 14.37 -884.00 2558.59 25.23 -1145.76 3308.79 69.06 -699.81
15 Podar 1249.00 12.11 -574.00 1801.35 6.22 -813.12 2971.47 75.64 -351.12
16 Indu No.5 1138.00 13.79 -441.00 1584.13 30.65 -574.18 2707.43 80.88 -262.29
17 Barshi 1243.00 60.45 -122.00 1337.43 64.86 -103.45 1627.97 105.75 19.54
18 Finlay 684.00 12.86 -215.00 675.21 -85.14 -458.40 820.66 32.81 -324.97
MADHYA PRADESH
19 New Bhopal 854.00 20.52 -369.00 992.54 21.37 -560.72 2318.61 93.65 -31.25
20 Burhanpur Tapti 841.00 40.67 -178.00 943.97 44.11 -401.72 1991.85 121.62 69.19
WEST BENGAL
21 Arati 218.00 12.73 -107.00 205.13 -13.88 -349.52 1342.12 78.43 -42.02
OVERALL 34043.00 42.78 -5811.00 35099.86 38.41 -7295.72 48544.204 82.31 -2886.49
Setting up of these three Green field Mills is in progress and production activities in these units have not yet begun.
22 New Minerva, Hassan (Karnataka)
23 New Finlay, Achalpur (Maharashtra)
24 New Rajnagar, Ahmedabad (Gujarat)
|
2879 |
UNSTARRED |
21.04.2010 |
ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS |
*CENTRAL CAPITAL FOR KSRTC |
2879. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is fact that as per article 23 of the Road Transport Corporation Act, 1950, Central and State Governments have to provide the required capital for State Road Transport Corporation in the proportion decided upon by those Governments;
(b) if so, in what proportion the required capital is provided for Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC);
(c) Whether it is also a fact that the Central Government stopped making capital contribution to KSRTC from 1991-92 onwards; and
(d) If so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS
(SHRI MAHADEO SINGH KHANDELA)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) Prior to 1993-94, the capital contribution from the Central and State Government was provided in the proportion of 1:2.
(c)&(d) Planning Commission dispensed with the scheme to provide capital contribution to State Road Transport Corporations and hence no capital support could be provided to any State Road Transport Corporation including Kerala State Road Transport Corporation since 1993-94.
|
2878 |
UNSTARRED |
21.04.2010 |
ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS |
FINANCIAL SUPPORT TO KERELA FOR STATE TRANSPORT |
2878. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-
(a) Whether the Kerala Government has requested the Central Government to provide financial support by way of subsidy, low interest finances from Central funding agencies, exemption of excise duty for diesel and vehicle purchases etc. for the State Transport Undertakings; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS
(SHRI MAHADEO SINGH KHANDELA)
(a) No such proposal has been received in this Ministry from Kerala Government in the recent past.
(b) Does not arise in view of (a) above.
|
2750 |
UNSTARRED |
20.04.2010 |
RURAL DEVELOPMENT |
IDENTIFICATION OF BPL FAMILIES |
2750. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of RURAL DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that fresh guidelines are being worked out for a nation wide survey to identify the Below Poverty Line (BPL) families; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and by when it is likely to be completed?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT
(SHRI PRADEEP JAIN `ADITYA`)
(a) & (b): The Ministry of Rural Development constituted an Expert Group to advise the Ministry on the suitable methodology for conducting the Below Poverty Line
(BPL) Census for 11th Five Year Plan in August, 2008. The Expert Group submitted its report to the Ministry on 21st August, 2009. The report of the Expert Group has been circulated among the States/UTs and the concerned Central Ministries for their comments and has also been posted on the Ministry`s website at www.rural.nic.in. The Ministry is in the process of finalizing the methodology for identification of people living below the Poverty Line in rural areas of the country, taking in to account the suggestions/comments of States/UTs and Central Ministries and experts. The guidelines will be prepared once the methodology is finalized.
|
2652 |
UNSTARRED |
20.04.2010 |
FINANCE |
*ISSUE OF FRESH BANKING LICENCES |
2652. SHRI D. RAJA
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has formulated any guidelines and eligibility criteria for issuing fresh banking licences to private players as per the announcement made by him in his budget speech;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether some proposals from the private players to enter the banking sector are pending with the RBI; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance
(Shri Namo Narain Meena)
(a) & (b): Pursuant to the Budget Speech 2010-11, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has initiated the process of formulating Guidelines/ eligibility criteria for issuing fresh banking licences to private players.
(c) & (d): Although `Expressions of Interests` of some private persons / entities have been received by the RBI, they are to be processed once the Guidelines/ eligibility criteria for issuing fresh banking licences to private players are finalised.
|
2647 |
UNSTARRED |
20.04.2010 |
FINANCE |
NON PAYMENT OF COMPENSATION TO STATES |
2647. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the State Governments have not received compensation for the revenue loss suffered by them due to the slashing of Central Sales Tax (CST) as a prerequisite to implement Goods and Service Tax (GST); and
(b) if so, the details of the compensation due to different States and the reasons for delay in payment?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE
(SHRI S.S. PALANIMANICKAM)
(a) & (b) An amount of Rs. 12854.06 has been released so far to State Governments for the revenue loss suffered by them due to reduction in rate of Central Sales Tax. In addition to the amount of Rs. 12854.06 crore already released, Central Sales Tax (CST) related compensation of Rs. 1102 crore has been found admissible to some of the State Governments as per details attached at Annexure-I. This amount could not be released in financial year 2009-10 as the consultation with Empowered Committee of States Finance Ministers to finalize CST compensation formula for financial year 2009-10 took some time.
|
2587 |
UNSTARRED |
19.04.2010 |
WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT |
UNDER NOURISHED CHILDREN |
2587. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) : whether it is a fact that 20 per cent of the world’s under-nourished children are in the country and 43 per cent of Indian children are under-nourished; and
(b) : if so, the details thereof and the steps being taken to improve the condition of children in the country?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT (SHRIMATI KRISHNA TIRATH)
(a)&(b): As per the least National Family Health Survey, 2005-06 (NFHS-3), 42.5% children under 5 years have been reported to be underweight in India.
The problem of malnutrition is multidimensional and inter-generational in nature, the determinants of which include household food insecurity, illiteracy and lack of awareness especially in women, access to health services, availability of safe drinking water, sanitation and environmental conditions and purchasing power etc. Besides early age at marriage of girls, teenage pregnancies resulting in low birth weight of the newborns, poor breastfeeding practices, poor complementary feeding practices, ignorance about nutritional needs of infants and young children and repeated infections further aggravate the malnutrition amongst children.
The Government has been implementing several schemes which have an impact on the nutritional status of the people.
The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Schemes is being implemented by Ministry of Women and Child Development through State Governments/UT Administrations. The scheme provides a package of six services, namely supplementary nutrition, pre-school non-formal education, nutrition & health education, immunization, health Check-up and referral services. Three of the six services namely immunization, health check up and referral services are delivered through the public health system of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
The Government has recently taken various steps which include universalisation of the scheme with special focus on SC/ST and minority habitations, revision in cost norms as well as the nutritional and feeding norms of the Supplementary Nutrition component of ICDS. In addition, Government has introduced provision of flexi fund at Anganwadi centre level and new World Health Organisation (WHO) Growth Standards for growth monitoring.
Besides the ICDS programme, Government has been implementing a number of other schemes, which directly or indirectly affect the nutritional status of women and children. Some of them are as follows:
(i) Reproductive & Child Health Programme under the National Rural Health Mission being implemented by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has interventions which include Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) to promote institutional deliveries; Immunization; Integrated Management of Neonatal and Childhood Illness; Specific Programmes to prevent and combat micronutrient deficiencies of Vitamin A and Iron & Folic Acid through Vitamin A Supplementation for children till the age of 5 years and Iron & Folic Acid Supplementation for infants, preschool children, adolescent girls, pregnant and lactating women; Iodised salt is being provided for combating Iodine Deficiency Disorders.
(ii) Mid-Day meal programme of Department of School Education and Literacy under which meals are provided to children in the age group 6- 14 years in the school.
(iii) Nutrition Programme for Adolescent Girls and Kishori Shakti Yojna of Ministry of Women and Child Development.
(iv) Availability of essential food items at subsidized cost through Targeted Public Distribution System and Antodaya Anna Yojna by Department of Food and Consumer Affairs.
(v) Provision of safe water supply and sanitation under the Total Sanitation Campaign of Ministry of Rural Development etc.
|
2463 |
UNSTARRED |
19.04.2010 |
CORPORATE AFFAIRS |
*CEILING ON REMUNERATION OF CEOS |
2463. SHRI D. RAJA
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of CORPORATE AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Companies Act,1956 has prescribed any ceiling on the remuneration of chief executives of companies;
(b) if so, what is the upper limit of remuneration of CEOs;
(c) whether it is a fact that the companies are paying more than the prescribed ceiling to its CEOs; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and what action has been taken against such companies?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS
(SHRI SALMAN KHURSHID)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) The total managerial remuneration to be paid to a Board level CEO of a company having only one Whole Time Director or a Manager is 5% of the profit of the company and the total remuneration to be paid to all the Board level Directors together of a company, having more than one Whole Time Director or Manager, is 10% of the profit of the company under Section 198 of the Companies Act,1956. In case of companies having inadequate profit or making losses the remuneration is determined in accordance with the directions under Schedule XIII of the Companies Act, 1956.
(c) & (d) The companies may pay more than the prescribed ceiling to their CEOs who are holding Board level positions with the approval of the Central Government as per provisions of the Companies Act,1956.
|
2400 |
UNSTARRED |
16.04.2010 |
MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES |
*DECLARING AS COIR YEAR |
2400. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government is aware that the coir industry in Kerala is the largest cottage industry in India providing livelihood to nearly three lakh fifty thousand people directly and many more indirectly and that Government of Kerala has declared 2010 as the Coir Year keeping its importance;
(b) if so, whether Government of Kerala has recommended the Centre to declare the year 2010 as “Coir Year” and take some other measures for rejuvenation of the coir industry; and
(c) if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES
(SHRI DINSHA PATEL)
(a) to (c) The Government of Kerala has declared 2010 as “Year for Coir” and it has recommended to the Government of India to declare the year 2010 as ‘National Year for Coir’. It has not been found feasible to declare the year 2010 as ‘National Year for Coir’ as three months of the current year are already over and action on various issues like preparation of detailed action plan of activities to be undertaken throughout the year in all the concerned states participating in coir activities, details and sources of funding of the said action plan for implementation, and consultation with/consent of all the concerned State Governments for participation in the Events, etc. need to be completed prior to declaration of a ‘National Year for Coir’. Further, the present plan schemes being implemented by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises through Coir Board, a statutory body under the administrative control of this Ministry do not envisage release of funds by the Union Government directly to the State Governments.
|
2347 |
UNSTARRED |
16.04.2010 |
CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION |
FOODGRAIN ALLOCATION TO APL FAMILIES |
2347. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government has a proposal to increase the foodgrains allocation for Above Poverty Line (APL) families; and
(b) if so, the details thereof?
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): Allocation of foodgrains under Above Poverty Line (APL) category, under Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS), is made based on availability of foodgrains in the Central Pool and past offtake. Presently, these allocations range between 10 kg and 35 kg per family per month in different States/UTs. There is no proposal to increase the allocation of foodgrains for the APL category.
|
2323 |
UNSTARRED |
16.04.2010 |
AGRICULTURE |
DECLINE IN PRODUCTIVITY OF PLANTATION CROPS IN KERALA |
2323. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that per hectare productivity of plantation crop in Kerala has declined over the years;
(b) if so, the productivity of major plantation crops in Kerala as per the latest data available and also during last five years;
(c) whether Government has any plan for replanting and rehabilitating all major perennial crops like coconut, cashew, rubber, tea, coffee and cardamom in Kerala; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
(SHRI K.V. THOMAS)
(a) & (b): The data available on productivity of major plantation crops in Kerala indicate that the productivity of all the major plantation crops except rubber is high during the year 2008- 09 as compared to that of the year 2004-05. Details are given at annexure-I.
(c) & (d): Ministry of Agriculture is implementing following two schemes for replantation / rejuvenation of plantation crops such as cashewnut & coconut in Kerala.
1. Centrally Sponsored Scheme on “National Horticulture Mission” for holistic development of horticulture which include rejuvenation of cashew.
2. A programme for “Replanting and rejuvenation of coconut gardens in 1,35,000 ha in Kerala and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
In addition, Ministry of Commerce & Industry is also extending assistance for replantation / rejuvenation of major plantation crops (tea, coffee, rubber & cardamom) during XI Five Year Plan Period. The Special Purpose Tea Fund (SPTF) scheme for tea, Development support for coffee, Rubber Plantation Development scheme for rubber and Special Purpose Fund for replantation / rejuvenation of cardamom plantations schemes are being implemented by the respective Commodity Boards.
Details of the schemes are given at annexure-II.
|
2303 |
UNSTARRED |
16.04.2010 |
AGRICULTURE |
*SHORTAGE OF STAFF IN AGRICULTURE RESEARCH INSTITUTE |
2303. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that our premier agricultural research institutes under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) are facing staff shortage as high as 25 per cent;
(b) if so, the details of the posts vacant in different research institutes under ICAR and the reasons for not filling up these vacancies; and
(c) the measures being taken to fill up these vacant posts without any further delay?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
(PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a) No, Sir.
(b) Does not arise.
(c) Does not arise.
|
2192 |
UNSTARRED |
15.04.2010 |
EXTERNAL AFFAIRS |
REHABILITATION OF IDPS |
2192. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government has made any enquiry from the Sri Lankan Government about the rehabilitation of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) who were languishing in camps; and
(b) if so, the number of people who are still in camps and the assistance given to the IDPs who were released from camps for their rehabilitation?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
(SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)
(a) & (b) Government of India attaches highest priority to the welfare and rehabilitation of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Northern Sri Lanka. Both the Governments have been holding regular discussions including at the highest levels on the issue of resettlement of IDPs. According to latest Government of Sri Lanka figures, as on April 6, 2010 over 1.95 lakh IDPs have been resettled & around 77,598 are in the camps. Conditions for movement of the IDPs have been relaxed since December 1, 2009.
Government of India has taken several steps to provide for their welfare and assist in the rehabilitation. On 9 June 09, Prime Minister announced in Parliament that Rs 500 crore was earmarked for relief & rehabilitation in Sri Lanka. India established a field hospital in Pulmodai which treated over 50,000 displaced people from March-September 2009. A total SLR 225 million worth in medicines have been gifted to Sri Lanka in kind and was used by the field hospital. India has deployed seven demining teams for securing the area and to assist the early return of IDPs to their original areas of habitation. India has also sent 5200 tons of shelter material for helping the resettling IDP families in the North. To help revive the livelihood of the resettling IDPs India has gifted 70,000 agricultural starters’ packs. India has also started distributing 4 lakh cement bags for the use of resettling IDP families to help repair their houses. India has deployed a reputed Indian NGO for conducting a month long artificial limb fitment camp in Northern Sri Lanka.
|
2125 |
UNSTARRED |
16.03.2010 |
SHIPPING |
NATIONAL WATERWAYS III |
2125. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of SHIPPING be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the work on the National Waterways–III from Kollam to Kottappuram in Kerala has been progressing at a slow pace;
(b) if so, the details of the project and the work so far completed; and
(c) what are the problems standing in the way for the completion of the project at the end of the year 2010 and the steps being taken to clear the hurdles?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SHIPPING
(SHRI MUKUL ROY)
(a) to (c): Kottapuram to Kollam sector of West Coast Canal along with Udyogmandal and Champakara canals for a total length of 205 km was declared as National Waterway in 1993. The navigational channel with 2 m depth has been developed in Udyogmandal and Champakara canals as well as Kochi-Allapuzha sector (99 km). In Kottapuram – Kochi sector (30 km) out of 18.83 km of shoal length, 14.00 km has been dredged and only 4.83 km remains to be dredged. In Allapuzha-Kayamkulam (38 km) and Kayamkulam – Eddapallikota (21 km) stretches, out of total shoal length of 41.33 km, 24 km has been dredged and in the remaining stretch, capital dredging is in progress. In the remaining sector of Edapallikota – Kollam (17 km) the tenders were invited for capital dredging including hard strata, but were cancelled due to poor response. Hence this work is being retendered. Terminals have been constructed at seven locations namely Kottapuram, Aluva, Kayamkulam, Viakom, Tannermukham, Trikunapuzha and Maradu while eighth terminal at Kollam is under construction, work of construction of Jetties have been taken up at Bolgatty and Willington islands to streamline the cargo movement within Kochi town. 24 hours navigational aids have been provided in the entire waterway. Hence, the progress is not slow. However, the land acquisition for widening of canals by the State Government as well as various other local issues, such as the problems in disposal of dredged materials, removal of fishing nets from the navigational channel, take considerable time. The handing over of Allapuzha terminal land by the State Government and delay in completion of works entrusted to State Government namely bank protection, and relaying of water line across waterway at Chavra have also taken time for which IWAI has taken up the matter with the State Government.
|
1869 |
UNSTARRED |
15.03.2010 |
ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS |
ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE TO ATHIRAPALLY HYDRO ELECTRIC |
1869. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL P.R. RAJAN A. VIJAYARAGHAVAN
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether environmental clearance was granted to Athirapally Hydro-Electric Project, Kerala, based on the EIA study conducted by the Water and Power Consultancy Services India Ltd.;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Central Government has sent a notice to the Kerala State Electricity Board to furnish reasons as to why the environmental clearance granted to the Project should not be withdrawn;
(d) if so, the circumstances under which such a notice was sent to the KSE Board;
(e) whether the Board/ State Government has responded to the notice;
(f) if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction thereto; and (g) whether required clearance will be granted to the project?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS
(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) & (b) The Athirapally Hydro-Electric Project in Kerala was accorded environmental clearance on 17th July, 2007 based on the Environmental Impact Assessment study carried out by WAPCOS.
(c) & (d) On the basis of representation received from Shri Rajendra Singh (Ramon Magsaysay Awardee) regarding impact on biodiversity and local tribals, a showcause notice was issued on 04.01.2010 to the Kerala State Electricity Board.
(e), (f) & (g) The response has been received from the Kerala State Electricity Board, which will be considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee for River Valley and Hydro-Electric Projects at its next meeting for taking a decision.
|
1753 |
UNSTARRED |
12.03.2010 |
HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT |
CORE CURRICULUM FOR SUBJECTS AT SENIOR SECONDARY LEVEL |
1753. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the Council of Boards of School Education in India (COBSE) has decided to adopt a core curriculum for physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics at the senior secondary level; and
(b) if so, the details and objectives thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)
(a) and (b): Council of Boards of School Education in India
(COBSE), with the help of experts and Member-Boards has developed a core curriculum in Science and Mathematics subjects at senior secondary level. In a meeting organised by COBSE on 16th February, 2010, at Delhi and attended by various School Education Boards, it was decided to adopt this common core curriculum, that would help students from different Boards to appear for common all India Entrance Tests for professional courses.
|
1527 |
UNSTARRED |
11.03.2010 |
COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY |
AKSHAYA CENTRES IN KERALA |
1527. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:-
:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the Kerala State has requested the Department of IT, to provide revenue support to all the 2200 Akshaya Centres, Citizens Services Centres in Kerala which has agreed to provide revenue support to 229 centres at present; and
(b) if so, the details and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY(SHRI SACHIN PILOT)
(a) and (b): The Government of Kerala had requested the Department of Information Technology, Government of India to provide revenue support to all the 2200 Akshaya Centers in the State of Kerala. Government of India has agreed to provide revenue support to 227 Common Services Centers as per the eligibility of the State on the criteria of one CSC for every 6 revenue villages, as provided for under the Common Services Centre Scheme.
|
1503 |
UNSTARRED |
10.03.2010 |
TEXTILES |
*REVIVAL OF PARVATHY MILLS IN KERALA |
1503. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of TEXTILES be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Kerala State Government had discussed the matter of revival of Parvathy Mills at Kollam in Kerala by National Textile Corporation; and
(b) if so, the details and Government’s decision thereon?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES
(SMT. PANABAAKA LAKSHMI)
(a) & (b): Three meetings were held between NTC management and the mills labour unions on 1.11.2008, 24.11.2008 and 7.11.2009 under the aegis of Minister of Labour, Government of Kerala on the issue of running of Parvathy Mills after modernization. As per the revival scheme of National Textile Corporation (NTC) approved by the Board for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction (BIFR), Parvathy Mills is slated for revival through joint venture route with private partnership where 51% equity will be with NTC. However, no final decision has been taken in the matter.
|
1447 |
UNSTARRED |
10.03.2010 |
LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT |
MODERNIZATION OF EMPLOYMENT EXCHANGES |
1447. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
R.C. SINGH
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the role of Employment Exchanges in imparting timely and reliable labour market information and providing jobs to job seekers has been dismal and their success rate in getting employment is less than 10 per cent;
(b) if so, the details of the Employment Exchanges, State-wise in the country, number of jobs in different categories notified and placement made during the last three years;
(c) whether Government had a proposal to modernize the Employment Exchanges in the country; and
(d) if so, at what stage is the proposal?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT
(SHRI HARISH RAWAT)
(a) It is true that most of the Employment Exchanges have not been able to keep pace with the changing technological development in the country and are lagging behind in providing up-to-date labour market information. However, many Exchanges have been computerized and are providing online services including vocational guidance & career counseling to the job- seekers. During 2008, 5.71 lakh vacancies were notified to the Employment Exchanges against which 3.05 lakh placements were made by them which is 53.4% of vacancies notified.
(b) State-wise number of Employment Exchanges functioning in the country is given as per statement at Annex- A and the details of number of jobs in different categories notified & placements made during 2005, 2006 and 2007 are given at Annex– B.
(c) Yes, Sir.
(d) Up-gradation and modernization of the Employment Exchanges has been taken up as one of the Mission Mode Projects (MMP) under National-e Governance Plan (Ne-GP) of Government of India. National Institute for Smart Government (NISG) has been engaged as Principal Consultant for conceptualization and design of the Project. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared and is in process for obtaining further necessary approvals.
|
1336 |
UNSTARRED |
09.03.2010 |
RURAL DEVELOPMENT |
ELECTRONIC PAYMENT SYSTEM IN NREGS |
1336. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of RURAL DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that it takes about a month for National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) payments to reach the actual beneficiaries;
(b) if so, the details thereof and reasons therefor;
(c) whether Government is considering a plan to introduce a smart card-based Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system to pay wages to beneficiaries of the NREGS; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT
(SHRI PRADEEP JAIN ‘ADITYA’)
(a) & (b): Section 3(3) of MGNREGA provides that the disbursement of wages shall be made on weekly basis or in any case not later than a fortnight after the date on which such work was done. All State Governments are required to make wage payment to the beneficiaries in accordance with the provisions of the Act. However, instances of delayed payment of wages have been brought to the notice of the Ministry.
(c) & (d): No such proposal is at present under consideration of the Government. Wage disbursement to MGNREGA workers through Banks/Post Office accounts has been made mandatory to ensure proper disbursement of wages to MGNREGA workers. The innovative financial inclusion models along with ICT enabled financial transactions in rural areas can increase outreach of financial services and provide easy access for MGNREGA workers. Business correspondent/facilitator models, Rural ATM, hand held devices, smart cards and biometrics, mobile banking are some of the measures for initiation.
|
1263 |
UNSTARRED |
09.03.2010 |
HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE |
NATIONAL URBAN HEALTH MISSION |
1263. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM), a national programme to provide quality health care to the country’s urban poor living in slums in the country has been shelved for the time being; and
(b) if so, the details of the Mission and reason for keeping it in deep freeze?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE
((SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)
(a) No.
(b) Does not arise.
|
1082 |
UNSTARRED |
08.03.2010 |
ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS |
CONTAMINATION BY GM MATERIALS |
1082. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that a global certifying agency has informed the Minister that it had been found that Soya was being contaminated by GM materials on three occasions and investigations had led to GM cotton as the source of contamination; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS
(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) to (b) The Ministry has not received any report regarding Soya being contaminated by GM materials. The development of GM Soya in the country is at its nascent stage and no field testing has been carried out so far. The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee has also not approved the import of GM Soya for food, feed or processing. Further, both the crops belong to different species and highly incompatible due to genetic differences and therefore Soya being contaminated with GM material from GM cotton is not possible.
|
141 |
STARRED |
08.03.2010 |
ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS |
MORATORIUM ON BT BRINJAL |
141. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that Government has clamped an indefinite moratorium on Bt-Brinjal’s commercial release until an independent regulatory body tests and proves that it is safe;
(b) if so, whether the independent regulatory body has been formed; and
(c) if so, the details thereof and by when the test is expected to be completed?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS
(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) to (c) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT REFFERED TO IN THE REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 141 BY SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN REGARDING MORATORIUM ON BT- BRINJAL DUE FOR REPLY ON 08.03.2010
(a) The Government has imposed a moratorium on commercialization of Bt brinjal event EE-I on February 09, 2010 till such time independent scientific studies establish, to the satisfaction of both the public and professionals, the safety of the product from the point of view of its long-term impact on human health and environment.
(b) The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) in consultation with eminent scientists would draw up fresh protocols for specific tests to establish the safety of Bt. Brinjal.
(c) The moratorium on commercial release of Bt brinjal event-EE-I will last till such time independent scientific studies establish that Bt brinjal is safe for the human health and environment.
|
1005 |
UNSTARRED |
05.03.2010 |
RAILWAYS |
*SETTING UP OF A WAGON FACTORY AT ALAPPUZHA IN KERALA |
1005. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN P. RAJEEVE
Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that an MoU has been signed between Railway Board and Autocast Ltd. and a public purpose vehicle (joint ventur
(e) has also been constituted for setting up a wagon factory at Alappuzha in Kerala; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and by when the project is expected to be started?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI E. AHAMED)
(a) & (b) No, Sir. No MOU has been signed between Railway Board and Autocast Ltd. However, an MOU had been signed between Ministry of Railways and Government of Kerala for formation of a Joint Venture for undertaking manufacture of Railway coach and wagon components. Process for the constitution of the JV has been initiated.
|
905 |
UNSTARRED |
05.03.2010 |
AGRICULTURE |
SECOND GREEN REVOLUTION |
905. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government is considering a proposal to bring about a Second Green Revolution in order to enhance the production and productivity in the agricultural sector; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and steps being taken in this direction?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
(SHRI K.V. THOMAS)
(a) & (b): For revitalization of agricultural sector, improvement in production and productivity, stepping up the growth rates of the sectors, enhancement of the incomes of the farmers, etc., the Government has already taken many initiatives like Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, National Food Security Mission, National Horticulture Mission, setting up of National Rainfed Area Authority and Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority, Micro Irrigation, Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Scheme, National Agricultural Insurance Scheme, Comprehensive Credit Package, Debt Waiver Scheme, Revival of Cooperative Credit Institutions, Technology Mission on Oilseeds & Pulses, etc. Further, the Government has announced a National Policy for Farmers in 2007, incorporating many of the recommendations of the National Commission on Farmers that are aimed at the revival of the Indian agriculture with special emphasis on the economic well being of the farmers. Moreover, in keeping with an announcement contained in the address by her Excellency, the President of India regarding urgent steps towards ‘Second Green Revolution’, following additional proposals have been made in the Union Budget 2010-11 to give fillip to the agricultural sector:
1. Rs. 400 crore provided to extend the green revolution to the eastern region of the country comprising Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Eastern UP, West Bengal and Orissa.
2. Rs. 300 crore provided to organise 60,000 “pulses and oil seed villages” in rain-fed areas during 2010-11 and provide an integrated intervention for water harvesting, watershed management and soil health, to enhance the productivity of the dry land farming areas.
3. Rs. 200 crore provided for sustaining the gains already made in the green revolution areas through conservation farming, which involves concurrent attention to soil health, water conservation and preservation of biodiversity.
4. Banks have been consistently meeting the targets set for agriculture credit flow in the past few years. For the year 2010-11, the target has been set at Rs.3,75,000 crore.
5. In view of the recent drought in some States and the severe floods in some other parts of the country, the period for repayment of the loan amount by farmers extended by six months from December 31, 2009 to June 30, 2010 under the Debt Waiver and Debt Relief Scheme for Farmers.
6. Incentive of additional one per cent interest subvention to farmers who repay short-term crop loans as per schedule, increased to 2% for 2010-11.
|
904 |
UNSTARRED |
05.03.2010 |
AGRICULTURE |
*RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE FOR RICE FARMING |
904. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government`s attention has been drawn to a proposal made by the eminent agriculture scientist Dr. M.S. Swaminathan about the need to set up a below-sea level research and development institute for rice farming at Kuttanad in Kerala; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
(PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. Dr. Swaminathan has recommended to the Kerala State Government for setting up of an International Centre for Below Sea Level Farming in Kuttanad, which in turn can become a resource centre even for countries such as Bangladesh and Maldives, which are similarly placed in terms of farming options as is Kuttanad. Presently two centers, namely, Moncombu Rice Research station and Kumarakam Regional Agricultural Research Station of Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) located below sea level are conducting research related to the problems of this region. The proposal is under examination of this department.
|
859 |
UNSTARRED |
04.03.2010 |
URBAN DEVELOPMENT |
SPORT SYSTEM IN KERALA |
859. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of URBAN DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the State Government of Kerala has asked for adequate fund direct to the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) for modernizing the city transport system in Thiruvananthapuram and Cochin cities under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission(JNNURM); and
(b) if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT
(SHRI SAUGATA ROY)
(a): No, Sir.
(b): Does not arise.
|
844 |
UNSTARRED |
04.03.2010 |
TOURISM |
*TOURISM PROJECTS IN KERALA |
844. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of TOURISM be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that the Center has cut down funds for certain tourism projects in Kerala; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and reasons therefor?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM
(SHRI SULTAN AHMED)
(a) and (b): Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance to the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations on the basis of projects proposals received from them every year under various schemes. Execution and implementation of projects sanctioned by the Ministry of Tourism is the responsibility of the concerned State Government/Union Territory Administration.
The Ministry of Tourism monitors the progress of implementation through site visits and review meetings from time to time which is a routine exercise. The project components which cannot be started or implemented due to various unavoidable reasons are dropped. Accordingly, such exercise was undertaken by the Ministry in respect of projects sanctioned for the State of Kerala and such components which cannot be implemented were dropped.
|
749 |
UNSTARRED |
04.03.2010 |
COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY |
PROPOSAL FOR SETTING UP OF SSDI BY KERALA |
749. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:-
(a) whether State Government of Kerala has submitted a proposal to set up a State Spatial Data Infrastructure (SSDI) as a State Level progression from the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) seeking financial support from the centre; and
(b) if so, the details and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY(SHRI SACHIN PILOT)
(a): Yes, Sir.
(b): The State Government`s proposal concerns setting up of Geo- portal that provides a view into the universe of spatial content. The matter is concern of the Department of Science & Technology which is implementing the NSDI Project Accordingly the proposal of Government of Kerala has been referred to the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India.
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717 |
UNSTARRED |
03.03.2010 |
ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS |
PROPOSAL FROM KERALA TO AMEND MOTOR VEHICLE RULES |
717. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of ROAD TRANSPORT & HIGH WAYS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government has received a proposal from the Kerala State Government to amend the Motor Vehicle Rules by incorporating a rule as sub rule (3) to Rule 82 enabling the State Transport Authority to delegate such of its powers and functions under Section 88 Motor Vehicles Act to such Authority or person as may be prescribed by State Government; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS
(SHRI MAHADEO SINGH KHANDELA)
(a) No such proposal has been received in this Ministry.
(b) Does not arise.
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651 |
UNSTARRED |
03.03.2010 |
HOME AFFAIRS |
*NEW MARINE POLICE STATIONS IN KERALA |
651. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government has sanctioned any new marine police station in Kerala;
(b) if so, what is the number of marine police stations in the State at present; and
(c) the details of the sanction sought by the State Governments to set up new police stations and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
(SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)
(a) to (c): As decided by the Government with a view to further strengthen the coastal security, an exercise of vulnerability/gap analysis along the Indian coastline has been carried out by the Coast Guard in consultation with the coastal States and Union Territories, including Kerala; and, based on this exercise, proposals for additional requirements for coastal security have been submitted. On the basis of inputs received from the Coast Guard and the coastal States/Union Territories, the second phase of the Coastal Security Scheme has been formulated. Necessary clearances for the same are being taken.
Under the ongoing Coastal Security Scheme, 8 coastal police stations have been approved for Kerala. For the second phase of the Coastal Security Scheme, Kerala has recommended for creation of another 10 coastal police stations.
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625 |
UNSTARRED |
03.03.2010 |
DEFENCE |
CASUALTY DUE TO AVALANCHE ON ARMY TRAINING CAMP IN KASHMIR |
625. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that 17 defence personnel died and many seriously injured when they were trapped in an avalanche on a training camp at Khilanmarg in Kashmir;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether it is also a fact that the Chandigarh based Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) had warned of the impending catastrophe which was ignored by the army brass;
(d) if so, whether any enquiry has been conducted into the allegation; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
(SHRI A.K. ANTONY)
MINISTER OF DEFENCE
(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. 17 Army personnel died and equal number injured in an avalanche at high altitude training area of High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) in J&K.
(c) Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) had issued an avalanche warning on 6th February 2010 for areas of Gulmarg Sub Sector. However, the area of incident is a traditional training area of HAWS which has no history of any avalanche.
(d) & (e): An inquiry has been ordered to investigate into the incident.
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587 |
UNSTARRED |
03.03.2010 |
COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY |
*ADVERSE EFFECT OF INDO ASEAN FTA |
587. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government`s attention has been drawn to a study conducted by the Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ASSOCHAM) stating that the Indo-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA) may cause damage to several key sectors of the Indian economy and adversely hit, particularly the interests of domestic plantation farmers; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)
(a) & (b) ASSOCHAM has released a publication titled ‘India – ASEAN FTA: A Major Breakthrough’ in February 2010 which has been examined. Comprehensive protection to the plantation and other sensitive sectors has been ensured under the India – ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement.
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87 |
STARRED |
03.03.2010 |
DEFENCE |
AIR ENCLAVE IN KERALA |
87. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government has a proposal to set up an Air Enclave dedicated to Coast Guard in Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala); and
(b) if so, the details thereof and the steps being taken in this regard?
Answer
(SHRI A.K. ANTONY)
MINISTER OF DEFENCE
(a) & (b): No, Sir. However, Government has recently approved setting up of Coast Guard Air Enclave at Kochi for effective aerial surveillance of coastline of Kerala and adjoining sea areas.
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516 |
UNSTARRED |
02.03.2010 |
HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE |
INTRODUCTION OF BRMS |
516. SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN
D. RAJA
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government is considering the Medical Council of India`s proposal for a Bachelor of Rural Medicine and Surgery;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether it is a fact that the State Government of Kerala has sought exemption to introduce the course in the State as there is no dearth of Doctors in rural areas;
(d) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reactions thereto;
(e) whether it is a fact that such a medical course was introduced in Chhattisgarh in 2000 and was scrapped in 2004; and
(f) if so, the measures proposed for its successful implementation?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE
(SHRI DINESH TRIVEDI)
(a), (b), (d) & (f) In order to tackle acute shortage of doctors in rural areas, the Central Government has been exploring various options, one of which is to introduce a short term rural medical course. The proposed course is of 4-years duration which includes 6-months of internship and especially designed for those who have completed their schooling and passed their qualifying examination from a ‘notified rural area’ in the district. The course is proposed to be conducted in the district hospitals where there is no medical college. On acquiring this qualification, the candidates can serve in the rural areas only in that State.
The Medical Council of India has held consultations with stakeholders to finalize its proposal. The Central Government can take decision only on receipt of the proposal from Council and after considering the views of various State Governments.
(c) Yes.
(e) Yes.