Questions asked by Dr. Najma A. Heptulla during Rajya Sabha session November – December 2009

No. of questions found: 48

3480. SHRI O.T. LEPCHA
NAJMA A. HEPTULLA KALRAJ MISHRA
Will the Minister of LAW & JUSTICE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government intends to review the Judges Inquiry Act in view of a long and cumbersome procedure prescribed in the Act;

(b) if so, by when;

(c) the status of inquiry initiated against Justice Saumitra Sen of Rolfeata High Court;

(d) whether there w any time limit for conclusion of the inquiry; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF LAW AND JUSTICE

(Dr. M. VEERAPPA MOILY)

(a) & (b): The Government is considering to bring in a fresh legislation on the subject of judicial standards and accountability of Judges.

(c) to (e): An enquiry Committee under the provisions of the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968 has been constituted by the Chairman, Rajya Sabha which is looking into the records. Rule 9 (2) (c) of the Judges (Inquiry) Rules, 1969 requires the Inquiry Committee to forward its report within three months from the date of service of the charges framed under Sub-section (3) of Section 3 of the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968. This time limit can, however, be extended for sufficient causes.

3461. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) the CVC has gone on record stating that irregularities were committed while awarding the coverage rights by Doordarshan;

(b) if so, the details in this regard;

(c) whether any responsibility has been fixed; and

(d) if so, the action taken against the persons involved in the incident?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION & BROADCASTING

(SHRI C.M. JATUA)

(a) to (d). The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has informed that on the direction of Hon’ble High Court of Delhi, an investigation has been undertaken by them regarding irregularities in awarding telecast rights etc. in Prasar Bharati. Since the investigation is going on, no details have been made available.

3432. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether Government proposes to bring in amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 to prevent incidents of poaching and poisoning of remaining population of tigers;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether most of the tiger reserves in the country are in precarious condition and thereby affecting tigers’ and leopards’ population;

(d) if so, the details thereof and whether the Central Government has discussed the matter with the State Governments and proposes to provide special assistance for proper maintenance of tiger reserves; and

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

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) & (b) The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 has already been amended in 2006 to strengthen tiger conservation and antipoaching measures. Based on the said enabling provisions, the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau have been operationalised with effect from 4.9.2006 and 6.6.2007 respectively.

(c) to (e) The tiger reserves have been assessed by a panel of independent experts using 45 parameters based on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) criteria, as adapted to Indian conditions, which was subjected to peer review by the IUCN. Both the assessment and peer review have been placed in both Houses of the Parliament in the Monsoon Session of 2006. Recently (2009), a rapid assessment of tiger reserves has been done. Out of 38 tiger reserves, 13 are good, 9 are satisfactory and 16 are in a poor status, which include 7 reserves affected by extremist disturbances. A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) linked to fund flows has been executed with tiger States to strengthen tiger conservation. The milestone initiatives taken for conservation of tiger and the central assistance provided to tiger reserves during the last three years and the current year are at Annexures-I & II respectively.

3403. SHRI O.T. LEPCHA
NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
Will the Minister of COAL be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is considering reforms in the coal mining;

(b) if so, the details in this regard;

(c) whether Government intends to involve private and foreign investors in coal mining to enhance the production capacity; and

(d) if so, the details in this regard and by when the reforms would be implemented?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (IC) IN THE MINISTRY OF COAL AND MINISTER OF STATE (IC) IN THE MINISTRY OF STATISTICS & PROGRAMME IMPLEMENTATION

(SHRI SRIPRAKASH JAISWAL)

(a)&(b) : Yes, Sir. The Government had constituted an Expert Committee under the Chairmanship of Shri T.L. Shankar to suggest measures to reform the coal sector. The Committee has submitted Part-I and Part-II of the report. The details of recommendations contained in these reports and action taken by the Government thereon is given in the Annexure.

(c)&(d) : Yes, Sir. Captive mining of coal is now permissible by private companies engaged in generation of power, production of iron and steel, production of cement, coal gasification and coal liquefaction and such other specified end uses as may be notified by the Government from time to time. As far as foreign direct investment (FDI) in coal sector is concerned, 100% FDI under the automatic route is allowed by the Government. Besides, the Coal Mines (Nationalization) Amendment Bill 2000 was introduced in Rajya Sabha in April, 2000, which seeks to permit private participation in coal mining, without the existing restriction of captive use, in order to augment coal production in the country. The Bill is pending for consideration in the Rajya Sabha.

ANNEXURE
Annexure referred to reply to parts (a) & (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No.3403.
The major recommendations of Expert Committee on restructuring/reforms in coal sector and action taken/proposed to be taken by the Government thereon are as under:-
S Major Recommendations Action Taken /proposed to be N taken 1 Augmenting domestic coal Government has allotted a number production to bridge the gap of new captive coal blocks, between demand and supply besides taking up a number of with emphasis on captive new coal projects under coal coal mining. PSUs to augment coal production to bridge the gap between demand and supply. 2 As coal shall remain India’s An action Plan has been prepared primary source of commercial to cover the balance coal energy supply, a time-bound bearing area of 5438 sq. km plan to cover the entire under regional exploration. It country by regional mapping is envisaged that an area of in 15 years should be 2791 sq. km will be covered prepared by Geological during the XI Plan and the Survey of India, Central balance there after. Mine Planning and Design Exploratory drilling capacity of Institute (CMPDIL) and CMPDIL is being doubled. Ministry of Coal (MOC). 3 Coal India Limited (CIL) may CIL has been granted Navaratna be granted the status of status. Besides this, 6 of its Navratna company and the subsidiary companies (South subsidiaries of CIL may be Eastern Coalfields Ltd.; Western granted the status of Mini Coalfields Ltd.; Mahanadi Ratna companies in which Coalfields Ltd.; Northern case only those proposals of Coalfields Ltd.; Central such a subsidiary would need Coalfields Ltd. & Central Mine government approval wherein Planning and Design Institute the capital expenditure Limited) and Neyveli Lignite exceeds Rs. 500 crore. Corporation Ltd. have been accorded Miniratna Category-I status. In July 2009 the Government has approved enhancing the financial powers of SCCL Board to approve projects, and to incur capital expenditure from 100 crore to Rs. 500 crores. 4 The issue of major This is agreed to. restructuring of CIL should be considered during the 12th Plan Period. 5 The environmental issue in The Government has issued new respect of coal projects Environment notification on should be taken up on 14.9.2006 as per which the priority consideration by proposals of coal mining the Government. projects are being processed for environmental clearance. 6 Planned imports of coal need Imports are planned by Power to be encouraged. Sector every year in advance keeping in view the requirement. CIL is also contemplating to import coal. 7 Increasing proportion of all E-auction of coal has already domestic coal that is not been started. earmarked for Power Sector be brought into the E- auction market over the next 2 to 3 years. 8 The current system of The new coal distribution policy linkages feeding the power of Government provides for long sector may be replaced with term fuel supply and transport formal long term Fuel Supply agreements that include and Transport Agreements railways. that include the Railways. 9 All possible legal measures On the basis of regular review should be evolved to cancel of the progress of captive the licenses issued earlier blocks, de-allocation of some if the allottee has not coal blocks has been done. taken adequate steps to Regular monitoring is being done bring the allotted mines to to review the progress production or in setting up periodically. the end use units.

1 Coal price would need to be So far as Ministry of Coal is 0 regulated in light of the concerned, the pricing of coal market realities. The has been fully deregulated after regulation of coal price has the Colliery Control Order, 2000 to be differentiating the notified with effect from 1st pricing of coal for power January, 2000 in supersession of generation since it consumes the Colliery Control Order, 80% of the domestic 1945. Under the Colliery production and the quality Control Order, 2000 the Central of coal it consumes is not Government has no power to fix easily saleable to the steel the prices of coal. Coal and cement sectors. Companies are empowered to fix the price of coal. 1 Promotion of underground Action has been initiated by CIL 1 mining to enhance the level of production from underground mines from around 44 million tonnes achieved in 2006-07 to about 67 million tonnes by 2011- 12 mainly by adopting mechanisation of operations, introduction of continuous miner technology and longwall technology. The additional investment has been estimated at Rs. 5185.59 crores for attaining this production level. CIL has also identified 7 blocks which can be developed into mega mine (more than 2 million tonnes production per annum) with state of the art consultancy and technology with foreign expertise. 1 Improve production and Action has been initiated to 2 productivity of men & improve productivity of heavy machinery with focus on earth moving machinery (HEMM) in technology upgradation opencast mines mainly by increasing the number of hours of operation and awarding maintenance and repair contracts, streamlining the replacement of old equipment, and deployment of large size equipment. In underground mines, improvement in productivity is being addressed through mechanized coal loading operations adopting side discharge loaders, load haul dumpers, conveyor belts etc. and introduction of continuous miner technology and longwall technology wherever it is feasible. Shortwall technology on experimental basis has also been introduced. Adoption of Highwall technology is also envisaged in some of the opencast mines. 1 There is need to have A department has already been 3 permanent cell for created at Coal India and also technology evaluation and at CMPDIL for adoption of new monitoring and improving the technology. CMPDIL as the systematic operating planning wing of Coal India procedures for modern new provides the initial inputs for equipment procurement (in adoption of new technology. CIL). 1 Switch over to Gross For adopting the GCV system of 4 Calorific Value (GCV) based grading of coal, it was agreed pricing and grading of coal between Coal India Limited (CIL) and NTPC to try out the proposed bandwidth price structure with 300 k. cal/kg for coal supply at some NTPC power plants initially for 60 days. However, this has not come through due to the lapse of time agreed to between NTPC and Coal India Limited and also lack of installation of automatic mechanical samplers at the loading points.

Accordingly, CIL has submitted a revised proposal mentioning the corresponding GCV values of sub- graded UHV bands and respective price ranges along with the time frame during which it proposes to install Auto Mechanical Samplers (AMSs) at the loading points on priority basis so as to notify the same through a Gazette Notification for switching over to GCV based grading. 1 Promote coal washing Government has already taken a 5 policy decision to encourage use of washed coal by permitting private entrepreneurs to set up washeries on coal company’s land. CIL has also taken a decision to supply washed coal to power sector by setting up new washeries on Build Own Maintain (BOM) basis and funding will be made by CIL. Additional washing capacity of about 140 million tonnes per year is envisaged to be created in next five years time. 1 Promotion of cutting edge Government has already permitted 6 technologies like CBM operations on commercial Underground Coal lines and 26 blocks have been Gasification (UCG), Coal Bed allotted to various Methane (CBM), Coal Mine entrepreneurs. Directorate Methane (CMM), Coal to General of Hydrocarbons (DGH) Liquid (CTL) etc. under Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas (MoP&NG) regulates the CBM operations. For CMM, coal companies are taking action to extract methane gas from the existing mines and a demonstration project in association with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) / Global Environmental Fund (GEF) is under implementation in one of the mines of Bharat Coking Coal Ltd. (BCCL). Government has recently recognized UCG, CTL as one of the permitted end uses under the captive mining policy. 1 Although India is not under Action already initiated for 7 any obligation under Kyoto adopting clean coal Protocol to reduce technologies. CIL has committed emissions, it is recommended to sell processed coal to all that India should assume its consumers. their role of a responsible Government has given lot of user of coal taking every stress for the extraction of effort to reduce the coal bed methane which would emission level of coal as eventually reduce emission from well as its consumption. burning coal. 1 Outsourcing should be CIL and its subsidiaries have 8 differentiated from contract initiated action and have labour employment. It is not included clauses in the a method to extract more tenders/contracts to remove work and pay less to exploitation of labour and also unskilled and semi skilled have generated training labour. In fact, it becomes programmes for uplifting skills relevant and inevitable in of its own workmen. tasks, which call for specialized skills. 1 Setting up of a Coal Action initiated for creating a 9 Governance & Regulation Coal Regulatory Authority. The authority (CGRA) to co- draft Bill for appointment of ordinate and attend to all coal regulator is being issues relevant for finalized for consideration of development of coal the Government. resources, regulation of coal price (wherever necessary), and nurturing level playing field between the entrenched large public sector coal companies and the emerging small coal companies in the State public sector and the captive mining sector.

2 Ensure proper mine closure Draft guidelines for mine 0 and restoration of mined out closure have been issued by the areas. The Coal Regulatory Ministry of Coal which would be Authority should be given implemented by the Coal the responsibility to Controller till the Coal monitor the restoration Regulatory Authority is put in work. A fee of Rs.10 per place. tonne of coal mined as Mine- restoration levy should be collected annually and release as grants on for such work. 2 Coal R&D fund should be The creation of R&D fund is 1 created whereby half of one agreed to. It is preferable percent of the turnover of that the proposed fund should be all coal companies in the kept available with the industry public and private sectors instead of the Coal Regulatory is deposited. CGRA could Authority. In the present manage the funds. system the R&D activities are identified, monitored and funded through a Standing Scientific Research Committee (SSRC), which is chaired by Secretary (Coal).

3391. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of STEEL be pleased to state:-

(a) whether due to delay in allotting captive iron ore mine to steel companies, the capacity expansion of the steel plants has been affected;

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

(c) whether in the absence of adequate raw material, the steel plants are unable to produce steel as per target; and

(d) if so, the steps contemplated by Government to ensure allotment of captive iron ore mines to steel companies to achieve the target of production of steel?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE (SHRI A. SAI PRATHAP) IN THE MINISTRY OF STEEL

(a)&(b): No, Sir. The capacity expansion projects of steel units are not solely dependent upon the allocation of iron ore mines.

(c)&(d): The present production of iron ore in the country is sufficient for the present domestic steel capacity. The production of iron ore in the country during 2008-09 was 227.64 million tonnes, while the domestic consumption of iron ore was estimated to be only 87 million tonnes. During 2008-09, 105.86 million tonnes of iron ore was exported from the country. However, Ministry of Steel is in favour of promoting value addition within the country and conservation of iron ore for long term utilization by the domestic steel industry. In this regard, it may be mentioned that the Government has approved National Mineral Policy’ 2008 which inter-alia provides for preference to value adders in the allocation of mineral concession. Ministry of Mines is in the process of bringing a new legislation to replace the existing Mines & Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act, 1957 to give effect to the intent of the National Mineral Policy, 2008 and recommendations of the Hoda Committee as approved by the Government.

3340. SHRI O.T. LEPCHA
NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has initiated a scheme for providing interest subsidy to non-creamy layer students on educational loans;

(b) if so, how much subsidy on interest is being provided and how many non-creamy layer students have been benefited by the scheme this year;

(c) whether any special provision has been made for the students of North-Eastern and hilly States; and

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

(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) & (b): A Central Sector Scheme has been approved by Government to provide interest subsidy for the period of moratorium on the educational loans taken by students from economically weaker sections with parental income upper limit of Rs.4.5 lakh per annum, from scheduled banks under the Educational Loan Scheme of the Indian Banks’ Association, for pursuing post-higher secondary recognised professional/technical courses in India. The scheme is available on the Ministry’s website (www. education. nic.in).

(c) No, Sir.

(d) Does not arise.

3132. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether Government of Pakistan is extending co-operation to India in the investigation of 26/11 terrorist attacks in Mumbai ;

(b) if not, whether Government proposes to take any steps to push Pakistan to do more in this regard;

(c) if so, the details thereof; and

(d) if not, the reasons therefor?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) to (d) Government has shared evidence with Pakistan in the form of seven dossiers on the role of Pakistani nationals in the terrorist attack on Mumbai in November 2008. Pakistan acknowledged and admitted on February 12, 2009 that the terrorist attack was planned and launched from Pakistan. In its dossier of July 11, 2009, Pakistan also acknowledged that substantial incriminating evidence had been unearthed which directly connects five accused LeT operatives under Pakistani custody. Two more suspects were arrested later. On November 25, 2009, the Government of Pakistan reportedly filed a charge sheet in an Anti Terrorism Court in Pakistan against the seven suspects and 20 proclaimed offenders for their role in the terrorist attack on Mumbai.
Government has conveyed its concerns and expectations to Pakistan on several occasions, including at the highest level in the meetings of Prime Minister with President and Prime Minister of Pakistan and in the meetings between EAM and Foreign Minister of Pakistan. Pakistan has stated that it will bring the perpetrators of the Mumbai attack to justice. Government expects Pakistan to act with purpose against the perpetrators of the Mumbai attack as also to unearth the wider conspiracy which motivated, planned and launched the attack.

3131. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether Government’s attention has been drawn to the recent statement of U.S. President Barrack Obama with regard to China’s role in South Asia, particularly in Indo-Pak relations;

(b) if so, India’s response to these statements;

(c) whether the same has been communicated to the U.S. administration; and

(d) if not, the reasons therefor?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

(SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) & (b) Yes. With regard to the US China Joint Statement of November 17, 2009, Government of India stated, on November 18, 2009 that “Government of India is committed to resolving all outstanding issues with Pakistan through a peaceful bilateral dialogue in accordance with the Shimla Agreement. A third country role cannot be envisaged nor is it necessary. We also believe that a meaningful dialogue with Pakistan can take place only in an environment free from terror or the threat of terror.”

(c) Yes.

(d) Does not arise.

416. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of URBAN DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Union Government has, recently, cautioned the States/Union Territories over the unsatisfactory performance under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission(JNNURM);

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

(c) whether several State Governments are not effectively implementing the JNNURM and the funds released by the Union Government for the scheme are diverted;

(d) if so, the facts thereof;

(e) whether the Union Government has now decided not to release funds for the scheme to those States which are not performing well; and

(f) if so, the details thereof? ANSWER
Answer
MINISTER OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI S. JAIPAL REDDY)

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

STATEMENT STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 416 FOR 17.12.2009 REGARDING PERFORMANCE OF STATES UNDER JNNURM.

(a) to (f): Under the Urban Infrastructure & Governance(UIG) component of Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), 477 projects have been approved upto 30.9.2009. Utilization certificates (UCs) for 51 projects, which were due have not been submitted by State/Union Territory (UT) Governments. The respective State Governments/UTs had been advised to expedite implementation of these projects and submit UCs, failing which the Government of India (GoI) may be constrained to withdraw the sanction of these projects. The National Steering Group (NSG) co-chaired by the Minister for Urban Development and Minister for Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, in its meeting held on 24.11.2009, considered the matter and decided that non-starter projects may not be withdrawn and State/Cities may be given the opportunity to start the projects. In the meantime, the amount released to them but projects lying unutilized may be adjusted against future release of next installment or new projects. As per the guidelines of JNNURM-UIG, the funds are released by GoI as Additional Central Assistance (ACA) (100% central grant in respect of Central share) to the State Government or its designated State Level Nodal Agency (SLNA). The Nodal Agency will in turn disburse the central assistance to ULBs or Parastatal agencies as the case may be. There is no specific report of diversion of funds released by GoI for purposes other than JNNURM by State Governments/UTs. As per Quarterly Progress Reports ending September, 2009, an amount of Rs.8986.87 crore has been released as ACA to State/UTs. The State/UTs/ULBs have released ACA alongwith their respective shares to the extent of Rs.16702.90 crore into the project account.

3047. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether Government is actively considering to set up a National Expressway Authority for building expressways;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the World Bank has agreed to provide funds for expressways;

(d) if so, the details thereof and under what terms and conditions World Bank has agreed to provide funds; and

(e) by when work on expressways is likely to be completed?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS

(SHRI R.P.N. SINGH)

(a) to (b) The Eleventh Five Year Plan document inter alia, envisages setting up of an Expressway Authority of India to formulate and implement a master Plan for 15600 kms of high density access-controlled expressways.

(c) No, Sir.

(d) Does not arise.

(e) The Expressway network plan is at the initial stage of planning. As such it is too early to indicate the completion date.

2823. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Central Government has decided to set up panels to settle tax disputes of foreign companies operating in the country ;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the details of tax disputes of foreign companies operating in India which are pending for settlement;

(d) whether procedure and rules have been framed to reduce the impact of judgmental errors in determining transfer price in international transactions; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE:

(SHRI S.S. PALANIMANICKAM)

(a) Yes Sir.

(b) The Central Government has decided to set up Dispute Resolution Panels for settlement of tax disputes of foreign companies operating in India in the following cities; Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai and Pune .

(c) 1398 cases of foreign companies operating in India are pending before appellate authorities. Tax revenue involved in such cases is about Rs. 7325 crores.

(d)&(e) The income-tax (Dispute Resolution Panel) Rules, 2009 have been notified vide S.O. 2958 (E) dated 20th November, 2009 to regulate the procedure of the Dispute Resolution Panel.

2673. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government’s attention has been drawn the recent incidents of tigers straying out of the wild into human habitat;

(b) if so, whether Government proposes to take any special measures to reduce human-tiger conflict and to keep tiger population healthy and surviving; and

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

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a)to(c) Incidents of tigers straying into human dominated landscapes have been reported by States, time to time. Detailed guidelines / advisories have been issued for addressing the human-tiger conflicts under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger.

2672. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of the international meets on climate change that the country has attended till now and of the ones that are going to be held in near future?

(b) what has been country’s stand on climate change in all these meets;

(c) whether there has been any international pressure to accept stricter emission norms;

(d) if so, from which countries; and

(e) what has been country’s response thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a)&(b) India is a Party to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Kyoto Protocol and has been participating in Conference of Parties held every years and other related meetings. The COP-15 to UNFCCC is presently being held in Copenhagen, Denmark from 7-18 December 2009. India’s position on the climate change negotiations is clear and consistent as it is fully anchored in the UNFCCC and Bali Action Plan, adopted in the 13th Conference of Parties (COP-13) to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held in Bali, Indonesia in 2007, with a view to enhance the actions of Parties in achieving objectives of the Convention.

(c) to (e) India has argued in the international negotiating fora that the parties must take actions in accordance with the UNFCCC principles of equity and ‘common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities’ in order to achieve the objectives of the convention. While the actions of the developed countries should include deep and ambitious targets for emission reduction in the second commitment period (post 2012) of the Kyoto Protocol, the actions of the developing countries will depend on the support in terms of finance and technology provided by the developed countries.
While India has already taken a number of steps, on its own, to adapt to and mitigate climate change impacts in the interest of sustainable development, India will take further voluntary and nationally appropriate actions for addressing climate change impacts strictly in accordance with the priorities and objectives laid down under its National Action Plan for Climate Change.

2639. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has set up the Ganga River Basin Authority, which is an inter-State and Centre group;

(b) if so, the details of its composition and objectives;

(c) whether any meeting of the said Authority have been held; and

(d) if so, what has been the outcome of these meetings?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) to (d): The Central Government by a Notification dated 20.02.2009, has set up the ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority’ (NGRBA) as an empowered planning, financing, monitoring and coordinating authority for the Ganga River, in exercise of the powers conferred under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The Prime Minister is the ex-officio Chairperson of the Authority, and it has as its members, the Union Ministers concerned, and the Chief Ministers of the States through which Ganga flows, viz., Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal, besides experts. The functions of the Authority include all measures necessary for planning and execution of programmes for abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga. The first meeting of the NGRBA was held on 5th October 2009. It was resolved that by the year 2020, it will be ensured that no untreated municipal sewage or industrial effluent flows into Ganga. The investment required to create the necessary treatment and sewerage infrastructure will be shared suitably between Centre and States after consultation with the States, Ministry of Finance and the Planning Commission.

2582. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that the Agriculture sector accounted for only 17 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country;

(b) if so, whether there is a need to develop new high yielding seeds, especially of pulses and oilseeds, to increase the share of Agriculture sector in GDP; and

(c) if so, the steps taken by Government to encourage agriculture scientists to develop new varieties of seeds of pulses and oilseeds?
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): Yes, Sir. As per the Revised Estimate for 2008-09 released by the Central Statistical Organization, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at constant (1999-2000) prices for Agriculture & allied sectors accounts for 17 percent of total GDP.

(b) & (c): Yes, Sir. One of the thrust areas of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is refinement of seed-production technologies and production of breeder seed with added emphasis on hybrid cultivars. New initiatives like development of Cytoplasmic Male Sterlity (CMS) based hybrids in pigeonpea, pyramiding of resistance genes for stable and durable resistance etc. and providing need based funds for research have been taken up. Research programmes like conservation of agriculture, precision farming, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) technologies are also under priority research. Scientists are encouraged to receive the training in advanced laboratories.

2467. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
KALRAJ MISHRA
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is a fact that as much as 20 per cent of crops in many areas of the country is destroyed by weeds and pesticides;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the finding of any study conducted on this issue by Government;

(c) the efforts being made to protect the crops from weeds and pesticides;

(d) whether efforts are being made by Government to improve the quality of seeds to ward off weeds and pesticides; and

(e) if so, the extent to which such research has reached and by when the seeds of such nature will be available?
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): It has been estimated that crop losses due to various pests including insect pests, diseases, rodents and weeds range from 10 to 30 per cent annually depending upon the severity of pest attack. Pesticides are not harmful to the crops if applied as per recommended schedule and dosage.

(b): The studies carried out by the Directorate of Weed Science Research (DWSR) and its coordinating centres located in different State Agricultural Universities, indicate that if not managed properly, weeds cause significant losses in crop yield.

(c): In addition to the traditional methods of weed control such as cultural and mechanical, so far 38 herbicides and 8 of their combination products have been approved by the Registration Committee constituted by the Central Government under Section 5 of the Insecticides Act, 1968, for controlling weeds in different crops in the country. State extension functionaries, State Agricultural Universities, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, Central Integrated Pest Management Centres and Directorate of Weed Science Research, Indian Council of Agricultural Research are also educating farmers for adoption of weed control measures in different crops to reduce crop loss due to weeds.

(d) & (e): Government of India has launched a country wide campaign for seed treatment in important crops of the country.

2326. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether the Empowered Group of Ministers (EGM) on the 3G Spectrum has failed to resolve difference between the defence and the telecom Ministry;

(b) if so, the reasons therefor;

(c) whether auction of 3G for GSM players has been postponed; and

(d) if so, the steps taken by Government to allot 3G spectrum in a transparent way?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

(SHRI GURUDAS KAMAT)

(a) & (b) The Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) in its second meeting held on 27.08.2009, among others, has decided that “4 blocks of 2×5 MHz of spectrum in 2.1 GHz band (excluding one block already allotted to BSNL/MTNL) should be auctioned in telecom circles where 20 MHz or more spectrum is available. In all other telecom circles, where less than 20 MHz spectrum is available in 2.1 GHz band, the number of available 5 MHz blocks should be auctioned (excluding one block already allotted to BSNL/MTNL)” and MoD has been requested to release the spectrum in anticipation of the completion of the triggers.

(c) & (d) As per the information memorandum (IM) issued on 23/10/2009, various aspects associated with the 3G auction has been indicated.

2210. SHRI MAHENDRA MOHAN
NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that half of the districts of India are affected by human trafficking and the States in southern and eastern India are the most vulnerable as far as trafficking is concerned;

(b) whether Government is also aware that women and children are most affected in human trafficking;

(c) if so, what measures have been taken by Government to stop human trafficking;

(d) whether human trafficking laws are not sufficient and stringent to stop such menace; and

(e) if so, the reasons therefor?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI AJAY MAKEN)

(a) & (b): As per the statistics compiled by the National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), the State/UT -wise details of the cases registered under human trafficking during 2006 to 2008 is enclosed at Annexure-I. No such information is maintained district-wise. NCRB statistics relating to human trafficking under various heads concern women and children.

(c): `Police` and `Public Order` being State subjects, the primary responsibility for preventing and combating the crime of human trafficking lies with the State Governments. However, the Government of India has adopted a multi-pronged approach to combat human trafficking viz., issuing of Advisory dated 9.9.2009 to States/UTs to deal with the crime of trafficking in a holistic manner and to evolve a effective and comprehensive strategy encompassing rescue, relief and rehabilitation of victims besides taking deterrent action against the law violators; setting up of Anti-Trafficking Nodal Cell in Ministry of Home Affairs; organizing training and workshops on the issue to create awareness among law enforcement agencies. The Advisory has listed special measures to prevent child trafficking like identification of children at risk, development of victim profiling with other agencies, carry out checks on sponsors and people who claim to be the relatives of children identified as being at risk of trafficking, etc.

Ministry of Women & Child Development (MWCD) has launched a comprehensive scheme `Ujjawala` for prevention of trafficking, and for rescue, rehabilitation, reintegration and repatriation of the victims of commercial sexual exploitation. MWCD also runs shelter based homes, such as Short Stay¬ Homes, Swadhar Homes for women in difficult circumstances including trafficked victims.

(d) & (e): State/UTs have been advised to adopt a victim centric approach in the investigation and to invoke sections 3, 6 and 7 of Immoral Trafficking Prevention Act, 1956 (ITPA) pertaining to pimps. brothel owners, clients who are actual perpetrators of the crimes, rather than sections 8 and 20 of the said Act which leads to re-victimization of victims. Ministry of Women & Child Development has proposed amendments to ITPA to widen its scope so as to make its implementation more effective, by focusing on traffickers and provide for stringent punishments for them.

294. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that out of 73 roads earmarked for construction along the unresolved 4056 km Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China only 12 roads are ready;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the details of exact reasons identified for non-completion of several roads along LAC with China; and

(d) the steps taken by Government to remove various hurdles in completion of the roads?
Answer
(SHRI A.K. ANTONY)

MINISTER OF DEFENCE

(a) & (b): There are 73 roads along Indo-China LAC, out of which 61 are being constructed by BRO. Till date 12 such roads have been completed. Work is in progress on 41 other roads.

(c) Some of the reasons for delay in completing these roads are:-

i) Delay in obtaining forest and wild life clearance.
ii) Many roads pass through high altitude areas where working season and daily working time is limited.
iii) Many roads pass through areas where no labour is available,
iv) Since jobs are locally available to labour under scheme like NREGA, labour is hesitant to migrate to difficult areas.
v) Good contractors are not available in far-flung and difficult areas.
vi) Since many sites are in remote areas not connected by road, supply and material have to be transported there by air.
vii) There is shortage of manpower with BRO.

(d) Efforts have been made to obtain forest clearances quickly by inter-ministry coordination as well as coordination with the State Governments. Procurement procedure of BRO for purchase of equipment has been simplified. Cooperation of State Governments of Jharkhand and Orissa has been solicited for recruitment of migrant labour from these States. Permission for outsourcing air effort has been granted. A scheme of providing incentives to the contractor to work in these difficult areas is being formulated. Manpower resources in these project areas have been increased by creating 118 units in the region along with 5 new task forces and 9 road construction companies. Additional recruitment of manpower with BRO is also being made through UPSC and General Reserve Engineering Force Centre.

2066. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
NARESH GUJRAL MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that estimated 78 thousand women die due to pregnancy and child birth related complications every year in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the maternal mortality rate in some States are higher and the various authorities have failed to check such rising trend; and

(d) if so, the concrete steps taken by Government to check such maternal mortality rate in the country?
Answer
THE MINSITER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

( a) to (d) Based on the official estimates of Registrar General of India (RGI), the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) has declined from 301 per 100,000 live births (2001-2003) to 254 per 100,000 live births (2004-06). This translates into approximately 67000 maternal deaths per year.

MMR as estimated for major states by the Registrar General of India (RGI) for the year 2001-2003 and 2004-06 is given at Annexure.

The reproductive and Child Health Programme Phase II (RCH-II) under the umbrella of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), aims to improve access for rural people, especially poor women and children to equitable, affordable accountable and effective primary health care, with a special focus on 18 States, with the ultimate objective of reducing Infant Mortality , Maternal Mortality and Total Fertility Rates.

The key strategies and interventions under the NRHM for reduction of MaternalMortality Ratio are:

· Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), a cash benefit scheme to promote Institutional Delivery with a special focus on Below Poverty Line (BPL) and SC/ST pregnant women;

· Operationalizing round the clock facilities for delivery services in the 24X7 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and First Referral Units (FRUs) including District Hospitals, Sub-district Hospitals, Community Health Centres and other institutions

· Augmenting the availability of skilled manpower thorough various skill- based trainings of Skilled Birth Attendants; training of MBBS Doctors in Life Saving Anesthetic Skills and Emergency Obstetric Care including Caesarean Section

· Provision of Ante-natal and Post Natal Care services including prevention and treatment of Anaemia by supplementation with Iron and Folic Acid tablets during pregnancy and lactation

· Organizing Village Health and Nutrition Days (VHNDs) at anganwadi Centres to impart health and nutrition education to pregnant and lactating mothers.

· Systems strengthening of health facilities through flexible funds at Sub Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs) and District Hospitals.

1427. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that India is the worst-affected by disaster in the South Asian region with drought, floods, earthquake and cyclones devastating the country with grim regularity;

(b) if so, what mechanism is in place in the eventuality at various places;

(c) what plan has been put in place for marginalized people living in Jhuggi Jhoparies in urban areas who become prone to fire and other disaster; and

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

(SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)

(a): Yes, Sir. The Indian sub-continent by virtue of its unique geographical configuration associated climatic regime is most vulnerable to natural disaster.

(b): Government has adopted a pro-active and holistic approach for management of disasters. To facilitate effective management of disasters, the Disaster Management Act, 2005 was enacted by Parliament which inter-alia provides for institutional mechanism at the national, state and district levels. At the National level, these include National Disaster Management authority (NDMA) with the responsibility of laying down the policies, plans and guidelines for disaster management; National Executive Committee (NEC) with the responsibility for implementing the policies and plans of the NDMA and ensuring the compliance of directions issued by the Central Government for the purpose of disaster management in the country. In addition, the Government has also established specialized institutions like the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) for human resource development, training & capacity building and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) for specialized intervention in the aftermath of disasters. Government is also strengthening the Civil Defence setup and Fire & Emergency Services in the country for enhancing their capacity for responding to disaster situations effectively.

(c) & (d): NDMA has issued guidelines related to different Ministries of Government of India and States/Union Territories Administration to prepare their respective plan to tackle disasters after undertaking vulnerability assessment and risk analysis of the State and updated regularly.

Disaster Management Plans at various levels address to the special needs of the vulnerable section of society including slum dwellers in urban areas.

200. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether India and South Africa have recently agreed to widen the export and import deals;

(b) if so, the details of discussions held with
Answer
MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

(SHRI ANAND SHARMA)

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

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 200 FOR ANSWER ON 2ND DECEMBER 2009 REGARDING “WIDENING OF EXPORT AND IMPORT DEALS BETWEEN INDIA AND SOUTH AFRICA”

(a) : Yes, Sir.

(b): During the meeting between the Commerce & Industry Minister and the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa in New Delhi on 13th November,2009, level of bilateral trade was reviewed and it was stressed that the trade basket is required to be expanded to tap existing potential. Details of discussion are as follows:

(1) Both the Ministers agreed that early conclusion of India-SACU Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) and Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA) will provide further impetus to trade in goods and investments. It was also agreed that the CEO Forum should be reconstituted at the earliest.

(2) Both the Ministers expressed satisfaction at the level of bilateral trade which has touched US $ 7,406.51 million during 2008-09. India’s imports from South Africa were US $ 5,440.36 million during this period and India’s exports to South Africa was US $ 1966.15 million.

(3) Both Ministers discussed the two way investments, and noted that Indian investments were about US $ 3 Billion with many projects still under implementation. There is interest shown by South African companies to invest in India also and present inflows are about US $ 100 million.

(c ) & (d): No, Sir. Imports from South Africa were about 2.77 times the Indian exports to South Africa in 2008-09.

1260. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
NARESH GUJRAL MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that a large amount of unclaimed money is lying in commercial banks for the past several years;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Reserve Bank of India`s (RBI), instructions to banks to trace customers or the legal heirs of unclaimed accounts have been followed;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the manner in which such amount is likely to be utilized or refunded to the legal heirs of account holders?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE

( SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA )

(a) & (b) : Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has reported that the unclaimed deposit of Scheduled Commercial Banks for the last three years is as detailed below :

S.No. Year ended Amount (Rs.)
1 31.12.2006 1050, 13, 74, 675 & US$ 6513
2 31.12.2007 1095, 46, 84, 927 & US$ 6513.05
3 31.12.2008 1188, 07, 83, 411.49

(c) to (e) :- Banks have reported that they have been following RBI instructions of August, 2008 to trace customers or the legal heirs of unclaimed deposits. In terms of these instructions, branches of a bank are required to make an annual review of accounts in which there are no operations i.e. no credit or debit other than crediting of periodic interest or debiting of service charges, for more than one year. The branches are required to approach the customers and inform them in writing that there has been no operation in the account and ascertain the reasons for the same. If the letters sent to account holders are returned undelivered, the branches are put on enquiry to find out the whereabouts of the customer or the legal heir, in case the account holder is deceased. They have also been advised to seek the help of the introducer of the account or the employer of the account holder or any other person whose details are available with them, who could provide information on the whereabouts of the account holder. The unclaimed deposits lie with the respective banks who deploy the same for their general business like any other deposits.

1237. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a)whether it is a fact that as per International Monetary Fund (IMF) there are more than 150 countries using Consumer Price Index(CPI) for calculation of inflation, while only 24 countries including India are using Wholesale Price Index (WPI) which doesn’t present correct picture of inflation in the country;

(b)whether there are different indicators for certain categories of people in India and CPI is being used for certain category of people;

(c)if so, whether Government would use common indices particularly CPI for all category of people; and

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

(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) to (d) : As per the Economic survey, 2008-09, “The International Monetary Fund (IMF) statistics reveals that 24 countries use WPI as the official measure to track inflation, compared to 157 countries which use CPI.” India does not have an aggregate Consumer Price Index (CPI) for measuring inflation but has four sectional consumer price indices i.e. Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI-IW, Base 2001), Consumer Price Index for Agricultural Labourers (CPI – AL, Base 1986-87), Consumer Price Index for Rural Labourers (CPI – RL, Base 1986-87) and Consumer Price Index for Urban Non-Manual Employees (CPI-UNME, Base 1984-85). The present series of CPIs do not encompass all the segments of the population in the country and as such they do not reflect the true picture of the price behaviour in the country. The Central Statistical Organisation has, therefore, taken an initiative for compilation of new series of CPI for Urban, Rural and combined at State/ UT/ All India covering the entire population.

1167. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
N.K. SINGH
Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government has recently decided to amend the mega power policy;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the States which are facing severe power crunch, would be benefited by the change in the policy; and

(d) if so, to what extent?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER

( SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI )

(a) & (b): Government has approved the following changes in the existing Mega Power Policy :-

(i) The existing condition of privatization of distribution by power purchasing states would be replaced by the condition that power purchasing states shall undertake to carry out distribution reforms as laid down by Ministry of Power (MoP).

(ii) The conditions requiring inter-state sale of power for getting mega power status would be removed.

(iii) The present dispensation of 15% price preference available to the domestic bidders in case of cost plus projects of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) would continue. However, the price preference will not apply to tariff based competitively bid projects of PSUs.

(iv) The requirement of undertaking ICB by the developers for procurement of equipment for mega power projects would not be mandatory, if the requisite quantum of power has been tied up through tariff based competitive bidding or the project has been awarded through tariff based competitive bidding.

(v) A basic custom duty of 2.5% only would be applicable on brownfield expansion of existing mega projects. All other benefits under mega power policy available to greenfield projects would also be available to expansion unit(s) (brownfield projects) even if the total capacity of expansion unit(s) is less than the threshold qualifying capacity, provided the size of the unit(s) is not less than that provided in the earlier phase of the project granted mega power project certificate. All other conditions for grant of the mega power status shall remain the same.

(vi) Mega Power Projects would be required to tie up power supply to the distribution companies/utilities through long term Power Purchase Agreements (PPA(s)) and may also sell power outside long term PPA(s) in accordance with the National Electricity Policy 2005 and Tariff Policy 2006, as amended from time to time, of Government of India.

(c) & (d) : Mega power policy aims at deriving economies of scale by setting up large size power plants at pithead and transmitting power to distant regions, which were deficit in power. Mega Power Policy, in its present form, has played a vital role in the development of power sector. However, in the wake of several important statutory and policy level changes in the power sector, this Ministry revisited some of the provisions of the present Mega Power Policy and brought them in line with the changed scenario. The modified policy will simplify the procedure for grant of mega certificate and facilitate quicker capacity addition and its benefits are likely to be availed by all States.

1092. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that as per the latest report of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) around 96 mammals, 67 birds, 25 reptiles, 64 varieties of fish, 213 invertebrates and 217 species of plants are in serious threat in India;

(b) what steps have been taken by Government to protect the bio-diversity of the country and save the species from extinction;

(c) whether Government is also aware that the latest analysis of the IUCN Red List shows that the 2010 target to reduce bio-diversity loss would not be met; and

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

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) The important steps taken to protect the biodiversity of the country are as follows:

(i) A network of Protected Areas has been established in the country for conservation of wildlife and its habitats.

(ii) The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 as amended from time to time has been enacted for better protection of wildlife.

(iii) Biosphere Reserves for conservation of representative ecosystems have been designated.

(iv) The Biological Diversity Act, 2002 has been enacted under which a National Biodiversity Authority and State Biodiversity Boards are set up for implementing the provisions of the Act.

(v) Financial & technical assistance is provided for conservation & protection of Protected Areas, ecologically fragile areas such as mangroves, wetlands and coral reefs.

(vi) Species oriented conservation programmes like Project Tiger, Project Elephant, Project Snow Leopard, etc. are implemented. In addition, 14 species including marine species have been identified for their recovery.

(vii) National Tiger Conservation Authority for better conservation and protection of tiger and their habitat has been established.

(viii) The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau for control of poaching & illegal trade in wildlife and its parts & products has been established.

(c) Yes, Sir.

(d) The studies conducted world over suggest that the changes in biodiversity due to human activities have been occurring more rapidly in the past 50 years than at any other time in human history. The main reason of biodiversity loss are habitat degradation, over exploitation of natural resources, proliferation of invasive alien species and climate change.

1080. SHRI MAHENDRA MOHAN
NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that solid waste management in small towns and most of the cities is in a mess and one can find heaps of garbage in the middle and side of the roads;

(b) if so, what kind of management and waste disposal help is being rendered by his Ministry to the civic bodies of those towns; and

(c) what kind of coordination is in place with the States and their civic bodies?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)

(a)to(c) The Ministry of Environment & Forests has notified the Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000 (MSW Rules, 2000) laying down detailed compliance criteria for collection, storage, segregation, transportation, processing and disposal of municipal solid wastes. As per these rules, the municipal authority is responsible for the implementation of the provisions of the rules and for any infrastructure development for management of municipal wastes. The municipal authorities are required to seek authorization for setting up of waste processing and disposal facilities including landfills from the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).

The SPCBs and the Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) of the Union Territories are required to prepare and submit an annual report on the implementation status of the rules to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). CPCB reviews annual consolidated report from SPCBs/PCCs for the status of implementation of MSW Rules. Regular interactions with SPCBs/PCCs through meetings and workshops are undertaken to facilitate implementation of Rules.

Financial assistance on cost sharing basis is provided by the Ministry of Environment and Forests for demonstration projects for solid waste management in accordance with MSW Rules, 2000. Ministry of Urban Development is implementing the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) scheme for providing assistance to the Urban Local Bodies for various schemes including for solid waste management.

561. SHRI MAHENDRA MOHAN
NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
Will the Minister of PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS be pleased to state:-

(a): whether Government is aware that due to fire in oil depot at Jaipur, there has been smoke all around Jaipur;

(b): what are the guidelines for having oil depots;

(c): whether these depots can be installed in the populated areas; and

(d): if so, the reasons and responsibility for causing health hazards to human lives in the populated areas?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS

(SHRI JITIN PRASADA)

(a): It has been reported that black smoke was seen emitting from the site of the incident due to burning of petroleum products.

(b) to (d): The setting up of oil depots depends on the supply- demand situation of the area to be served and the location is determined by factors like various mandatory clearances from Central/ State and local authorities. Generally, the depots are set up in scarcely populated areas. However, it is observed that the density of population increases after the depot is commissioned.

547. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether Government is aware that lots of faculty members of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) are leaving institute due to frustration and red tapism as there is lack of research facilities and motivation thereat;

(b) if so, what Government has done to motivate the faculty so that they do not leave the institute;

(c) how many faculty members have left the institute in the last three years;

(d) whether these faculty members are yet to be given the benefits of the Sixth Pay Commission; and

(e) if so, the reasons therefor?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a): No.

(b): Faculty members are encouraged to undertake research. Intramural research proposal are submitted to the Dean, AIIMS which are screened and evaluated by three sub committees of Senior faculty members. Rs. 50.00 lakh per annum is allocated for Intramural research.
Extramural research in AIIMS is managed under the guidance of the Research Committee of the Institute. As per procedures laid down Research proposals are forwarded to funding agencies by the faculty members/Scientists and upon receipt of financial sanctions from the funding agencies, approval of the competent authority at AIIMS is issued subject to clearances from the Ethics Committee, Animal Ethics Committee, Bio safety Committee Health Ministry Screening Committee, Radiation Safety Committee and the Clinical Trial Registry.

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

(d): Twenty faculty members have left the institute during the last three years i.e. from 01.01.2007 till date on personal grounds.

(e): A revised proposal, as per advice of Cabinet Secretariat, for revision of pay scales of Faculty of autonomous institutions of medical education under the Department of Health and Family Welfare has been set to the Cabinet Secretariat.

524. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government is going to establish more All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)-like institutions in the country;

(b) if so, work has begun on how many institutions and how much time it would take to operationalize them;

(c) whether Government has assessed the requirement of desired faculty in these institutions;

(d) if so, the details thereof and whether Government is aware that there are so many posts lying vacant in AIIMS; and

(e) if so, the reasons therefor and how much time it would take to fill them up?
Answer
THE MINSITER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a)&(b): Yes. Under Phase I of Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), 6 new AIIMS-like institutions, one each at Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), Bhubaneswar (Orissa), Jodhpur (Rajasthan), Patna (Bihar), Raipur (Chattisgarh) and Rishikesh (Uttarakhand) are being set up. The construction of residential complex has been taken up and is likely to be completed in all sites in 2010. Tenders have also been issued in November, 2009 for the selection of contractors for the medical college(s) and hospital complexes. The work is likely to commence by February, 2010 and all the institutions will be operationalized by 2012. In Phase II of PMSSY two more AIIMS-like institutions, one each in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal have been approved in March, 2009.

(c) & (d) Manpower requirement for these institutions is being worked out by an Expert Committee constituted for the purpose. In respect of AIIMS, New Delhi, a total of 190 posts of faculty at various levels are lying vacant at present.

(e): In the year 2006 and 2007, efforts were made to fill up a total number of 131 vacant faculty posts. But the selection process for the advertisement posts could not take place due to administrative reasons. The recruitment for these faculty positions will begin as soon as necessary clarification is issued by the Competent Authority.

501. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether Government is aware that leprosy related cases are rising in the country while Government statistics show that they are on the decline;

(b) if so, whether Government has done a fresh survey of leprosy affected people in the country;

(c) what is State-wise break up and how many fresh cases have come to light in the rural and urban areas separately; and

(d) what has been response of Government for the settlement and treatment of leprosy patients?
Answer

THE MINSITER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a) Leprosy related cases are not rising in the country, on the contrary, the reported cases are declining over the years. The number of new leprosy cases detected during last five year are given below:-

· 2004-2005- 260036

· 2005-2006- 161457

· 2006-2007- 139252

· 2007-2008- 137685

· 2008-2009- 134184

(b): No.

(c): Does not arise.

(d):Under National Leprosy Eradication Programme, following actions are being taken by the Ministry of health and Family Welfare for treatment of leprosy patients and facilitating settlement of leprosy affected persons –

(i) Detection and treatment of leprosy by ensuring availability of drugs for Multi Drugs Therapy (MDT) at all PHC/Govt. dispensaries free of cost.

(ii) Involving Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) in referring suspect cases of leprosy to nearest PHC and follow-up of the cases for treatment completion.

(iii) Providing funds for dressing materials, appliances and supportive medicines to cases with leprosy reactions/ulcers and microcellular rubber (MCR) footwears to leprosy affected persons with insensitive feet.

(iv) Providing funds for Re-constructive surgery services to Leprosy Affected Persons free of cost for disability correction.

428. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether Government has convened a meeting of Ministers in charge of women and child development of State Governments to review programmes and policies related with welfare and development of women and children;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether Government is aware that most of the schemes have not been effectively implemented by the States; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

(SHRIMATI KRISHNA TIRATH)

(a) & (b) A Conference of State Ministers/State Secretaries in charge of Women and Child Development was held on 28th October, 2009 at New Delhi. The agenda of the Conference included the newly launched Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) and the following proposed programmes: –

i) National Mission for Empowerment of Women
ii) Conditional Maternity Benefit Scheme
iii) Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (SABLA)

(c) & (d) The implementation of the existing schemes and programmes of the Ministry of Women and Child Development are reviewed from time to time in consultation with State Governments and corrective measures are taken for their effective implementation.

427. SHRI MAHENDRA MOHAN
NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
Will the Minister of WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is going to launch the National Mission for Women, to combat social evils against women to be chaired by Prime Minister;

(b) if so, the details of the programme;

(c) whether this will include all the schemes launched for the empowerment of women in the country; and

(d) if so, the details of the schemes covered and mechanism to monitor their implementation?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

(SHRIMATI KRISHNA TIRATH)

(a), (b),(c) & (d) The Government is considering a proposal to set up a National Mission for Empowerment of Women. The actual contours of the proposed National Mission for Empowerment of Women are being worked out and will be finalized after inter ministerial consultations are complete.

385. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of MINORITY AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether it is fact that Government is going to launch a scheme to provide skill development and leadership training to women belonging to minority community exhibiting entrepreneurial skill;

(b) if so, the details of the scheme;

(c) how much money has been sanctioned for implementation of this scheme; and

(d) what skills would be imparted under this scheme?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS

(SALMAN KHURSHID)

(a) to (d) Yes, Sir. A scheme for leadership development of minority women is under consideration for launching it during 2009-10. A budgetary provision of Rs. 8 crores has been provided for this scheme for 2009-10.

188. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether Government is aware that due to shortage of rain in North India, kharif crop particularly rice production, has fallen in the country;

(b) if so, what are the latest kharif crop estimates and how much decline has been recorded;

(c) whether this decline is going to affect food security in the country; and

(d) if so, the details in this regard and how Government is going to meet the shortfall?
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): As per the 1st Advance Estimates released on 3rd November, 2009, production of kharif rice of 2009-10 is estimated at 69.45 million tones, against the estimated production of 84.58 million tones in 2008-09 (4th advance estimates).

(c) & (d): Stock of rice in the Central Pool as on 01.10.2009 was 149.14 lakh tones against the buffer norm of 52 lakh tones and strategic reserve of 20 lakh tones. In the current Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2009-10, 111.58 lakh tones of rice has been procured as on 17.11.2009 against 101.11 lakh tones procured in the corresponding period in KMS 2008-09. At the estimated level of procurement of 260 lakh tones of rice (as informed by the Food Corporation of India), the stock of rice in the Central Pool is estimated to be sufficient to meet the current level of requirement of Targeted Public Distribution System and other welfare Schemes.

40. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA

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

(a) whether Government is aware that India ranks woefully at 101 st place in the Global Competitive Index due to poor primary education in the country;

(b) whether Government is also aware that due to poor quality of primary education, the economic competitiveness is also being affected;

(c) if so, the action taken by Government to improve primary education in the country and the infrastructure in this regard; and

(d) the steps taken to arrest the drop-out rate and bring uniform syllabus for the entire country?
Answer
MINISTER OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

(SHRI KAPIL SIBAL)

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

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 40 FOR ANSWER ON 20TH NOVEMBER, 2009 ASKED BY DR. (SHRIMATI) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA REGARDING IMPROVEMENT IN PRIMARY EDUCATION

(a) : According to a Report of the World Economic Forum for 2009-10, India stands at 49th position in the Global Competitiveness Index. In respect of Health and Primary Education, its position is at 101, while its rank is 100 for primary education.

(b) to (d): Government is committed to universalisation of elementary education and has taken significant steps to enhance access, retention and quality of elementary education in the country. Towards this end, the Government implements various programmes and policies including the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme. Under SSA, 1.47 lakh primary schools have been upgraded to have upper primary classes, 9.86 lakh teachers have been recruited, children are provided free textbooks and teachers provided in-service training. Under Mid-Day Meal Scheme, which supports the efforts under the SSA, hot cooked wholesome mid day meal is provided to children of Classes I to VIII in all Government and Government aided schools, Education Guarantee Scheme and Alternative and Innovative Education Centres. These interventions have contributed in reducing the drop out rates and increasing enrollment and retention at elementary school level.
The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, casts a duty on the Central Government, State Governments and local authorities to provide free and compulsory education to all children in the age group of 6- 14 years.
There is no proposal for a uniform syllabus throughout the country for primary education.

59. SHRI MAHENDRA MOHAN
NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
Will the Minister of HOUSING AND URBAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION be pleased to state:-

(a) : Whether Government has abandoned the National Housing Board’s Aaam Adami Awas proposal where Government was to build 31 million houses, each of 25 sq. m. costing Rs one lakh;

(b) : If so, the reasons therefor;

(c) : Whether is it also a fact that Government has started housing loan subsidy to finance the urban poor; and

(d) : If so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTRY OF HOUSING & URBAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION

(KUMARI SELJA)

(a) & (b): The National Housing Bank (NHB) has mooted the concept of cost efficient houses of about 25 sq.m area costing within Rs.1 lakh (excluding land cost), tentatively titled Aam Aadmi Awas (AAA). The programme envisaged houses with reasonable quality of life with separate kitchen, toilet and a multipurpose room and to be built in clusters of 2,000-3,000 units with a proposed outlay of Rs. 150000 crore for construction of 15 million houses. The concept was essentially based on cluster approach with large number of houses to achieve economies of scale. However, taking into account the concerns of land availability in urban areas, budgetary constraints etc. the proposal remains at concept stage.

(c) & (d) The Interest Subsidy Scheme for Housing the Urban Poor (ISHUP) has been launched w.e.f. 26/12/2008. It seeks to provide interest subsidy to Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and Low Income Group (LIG) beneficiaries on availing loans from the Banks /Housing Finance Companies (HFCs) to enhance affordability of these income segments. Under this scheme, an interest subsidy of 5 percent per annum will be given upfront on loans upto Rs. 1,00,000/-taken from Banks / Housing Finance Companies (HFCs) during 11th Five Year Plan. The Loan repayment Period would be 15-20 years. The guidelines of the scheme have been drawn up & circulated.

58. DR.(SMT.) NAJMA A. HEPTULLA
MAHENDRA MOHAN
Will the Minister of HOUSING AND URBAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION be pleased to state:-

(a) : Whether Government have assessed the shortage of housing for the urban poor in the country;

(b) : If so, the details of shortfall in the country, State-wise; (

(c) : the number of dwelling units that have been added during the last two years including the current year; and

(d) : whether Government plans to provide temporary shelter to the migrant workers and steps being taken to meet the shortfall?
Answer
THE MINISTER OF HOUSING & URBAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION

(KUMARI SELJA)

(a) &(b) : A Technical Group constituted by the Ministry in 2006 to assess the urban housing shortage has estimated that at the end of the 10th Five Year Plan (2007-08), the total housing shortage in the country was 24.71 million. It put the housing shortage amongst the various income groups as under:-

Statewise details of housing shortage as estimated by the Group are given at Annexure.

(c)&(d) : `Land’ and ‘Colonisation’ being State subjects, it is primarily the responsibility of State Governments to provide for adequate Shelter and take enabling measures, including for shelter for the migrant workers. However, the Central Government has launched Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) with the basic objective to strive for holistic slum development with a healthy and enabling urban environment by providing adequate shelter and basic infrastructure facilities to the slum dwellers including the migrant workers of the identified urban areas. Additional Central Assistance is provided to States/UTs for taking up housing and infrastructural facilities for the urban poor in 65 select cities under the Sub-Mission on Basic Services to the Urban Poor(BSUP). For other cities/towns, the Integrated Housing and Slum Development Programme (IHSDP) has been introduced. Total no. of Dwelling Units approved under the two schemes during 2008-09 and 2009-10 are as under:-

Year 2008-09 2009-10
BSUP 201012 1660
IHSDP 196657 7372