No. of questions found: 29
|
4158 |
UNSTARRED |
04.05.2010 |
CIVIL |
*CONTRACT |
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.
|
547 |
STARRED |
04.05.2010 |
PANCHAYAT RAJ |
PRIZE AMOUNT OF PEAIS |
547. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of PANCHAYAT RAJ be pleased to state:-
(a) what is the prize amount given to States under the Panchayat Empowerment and Accountability Incentive Scheme (PEAIS); and
(b) whether there is any proposal to increase this prize amount?
Answer
MINISTER OF PANCHAYATI RAJ
(Dr. C. P. JOSHI)
(a): The prize amount given to the States under Panchayat Empowerment & Accountability Incentive Scheme(PEAIS), year-wise is given below:-
Year No. of States/UTs given prize Amount of Prize(Rs. In crore)
2009-10 6 10.00
2008-09 10 10.00
2007-08 13 10.00
2006-07 10 10.00
2005-06 08 5.00
(b): It has not been possible to increase the prize amount due to constraint of funds.
|
506 |
STARRED |
30.04.2010 |
CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION |
AVAILABILITY OF ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES IN OUTLETS OF NAFED |
506. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:-
(a) the essential commodities made available in the outlets of NAFED and Kendriya Bhandar in Delhi and the selling price of each of these commodities; and
(b) the prices of the same commodities in the open market?
Answer
MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
(SHRI SHARAD PAWAR)
(a) & (b): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) AND (b) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 506 FOR 30/04/2010 REGARDING AVAILABILITY OF ESSENTIAL COMMODITIES IN OUTLETS OF NAFED AND KENDRIYA BHANDAR
(a) & (b): The details of list of essential commodities made available in the outlets of Kendriya Bhandar and selling price of each of these commodities and open market price at Delhi as on 22.4.2010 given in Annexure I. The list of essential commodities made available in the outlets of NAFED and selling price of each of these commodities and open market price at Delhi as on 28.4.2010 given in Annexure II.
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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.
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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.
|
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.
|
356 |
STARRED |
20.04.2010 |
RURAL DEVELOPMENT |
RELAXATION IN PMGSY GUIDELINES |
356. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of RURAL DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that under the guidelines of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) a uniform width of 8 metres is required for roads to be constructed under the scheme;
(b) if so, whether the State Government of Kerala has requested the Centre to allow relaxation in the PMGSY guidelines with regard to the width requirements, as such width of roads in certain areas, particularly hilly and difficult areas as in Idukki district in the State, is not required; and
(c) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT
(DR. C. P. JOSHI)
(a) to (c) : A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
Statement referred in reply to parts (a) to (c) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.356 due for reply on 20.4.2010.
(a): As per Rural Roads Manual IRC SP 20 2002, the normal carriageway width is 3.75 m, road way width is 7.5 m and road land width is normally more than 12.0m as per the terrain. However, as per the code, when the traffic expected to ply on the road is less than 100 motorized vehicles per day, the carriageway width and road way width will be 3m and 6m respectively. The road land width will be reduced accordingly. It implies that the minimum width of PMGSY roads shall not be less than 3 m carriageway width and 6m roadway width irrespective of the terrain.
(b)&(c): The Government of Kerala has suggested relaxation of norms with regard to permissible road width and gradient. The State Government of Kerala has been intimated that the roadway width of six metres can be permitted when there are constraints on availability of land and the projected traffic is less than 100 motorized vehicles per day. As regards gradient, an exceptional gradient has been permitted upto 10% for rural road as per the recommendations of an Expert Committee constituted by Ministry of Rural Development. However, this exceptional gradient should be limited to 100 metres at a stretch and should be used sparingly. In ghat sections, the recommendations limiting gradient is 7% and the exceptional gradient remains at 10%.
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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.
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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.
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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.
|
2132 |
UNSTARRED |
16.03.2010 |
SHIPPING |
PERMISSION TO PRIVATE SECTOR FOR OPERATING PORT FACILITIES |
2132. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of SHIPPING be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government is considering a proposal to allow private players to operate port facilities to transport cargo and also to set up captive berths at ports; and
(b) if so, the details thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF SHIPPING
(SHRI G. K. VASAN)
(a) & (b): A proposal to allow private players to operate captive berths at major ports for transportation of cargo is presently with the Government, but no final decision has been taken.
|
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.
|
225 |
STARRED |
12.03.2010 |
MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES |
LOANS TO SMALL AND MEDIUM UNITS UNDER PATTERN SCHEME AND CBC |
225. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES be pleased to state:-
(a) whether large amount of loans were given to several small and medium industrial units in Kerala under Pattern Scheme and Consortium Bank Credit (CBC) Scheme;
(b) whether, as the interest rate was high, many units could not repay the loans and most of the funds became irrecoverable;
(c) if so, the details of the total loans given under these schemes and unrecovered amount including principal and interest;
(d) whether the Government of Kerala has requested the Centre to write off the debts as the loanees are from weaker sections; and
(e) 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 (e): A statement is placed on the table of the Sabha.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN ANSWER TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 225 FOR ANSWER ON 12.03.2010.
(a): During the period from 1956 to 1995 registered khadi as well as village industries (VI) institutions were supported with loans given by Government through Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) as the nodal financing agency. This was discontinued in 1995 based on the report of a High Power Committee (HPC) on Khadi and Village Industries (KVI) constituted in 1994 and a scheme was introduced under which KVIC has drawn large amount of credit from Consortium Bank Credit (CBC) lead by State Bank of India to assist the VI institutions as well including those in Kerala. As on 31.03.2009, the loans outstanding under Pattern scheme and CBC scheme against KVI institutions enlisted with KVIC and Khadi and Village Industries Board (KVIB) of Kerala are Rs. 50.52 crore and Rs. 24.09 crore respectively.
(b)&(c): The institutions are charged interest on CBC loan availed by them at the average of Prime Lending Rate of five major banks of the consortium. There are reports of default in repayment of loan as well as interest by some institutions due to reasons such as weak management, inconsistency in quality, inadequate marketing efforts, etc. Details of loans outstanding from KVI institutions under Pattern scheme and CBC scheme throughout the country as on 31.03.2009 are given below:
(d)&(e): A suggestion was received from Government of Kerala for introduction of a scheme to waive off CBC loans outstanding against these institutions. As substantial amount was already advanced under Pattern as well as CBC schemes to these institutions, unless a practical strategy of revival and restructuring of the institutions is put in place, a scheme of waiver alone is not likely to be effective and helpful for their revitalization. Accordingly, a study has been commissioned by this Ministry through the Office of the Chief Adviser Cost, Department of Expenditure, following whose report, an Expert Group is under constitution for considering an appropriate strategy for addressing their problems.
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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.
|
1086 |
UNSTARRED |
08.03.2010 |
ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS |
SUSTAINABLE COASTAL ZONE PROTECTION REGULATION |
1086. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether Government is considering a proposal to bring in a Sustainable Coastal Zone Protection regulation (SCZP); and
(b) if so, the details and objective thereof?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS
(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH):
(a) & (b) : The Government has initiated steps to implement the recommendations made by Prof. M. S. Swaminathan Committee in its report “Final Frontier” dated 16.7.2009 for strengthening of the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991. The steps include drafting of a Sustainable Coastal Zone Protection Notification with an objective to protect the livelihood of local communities and promoting sustainable development in the coast.
|
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.
|
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 condu
|
137 |
STARRED |
05.03.2010 |
RAILWAYS |
SETTING UP OF A COACH FACTORY AT KANJIKODE IN KERALA |
137. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether it is a fact that a good part of land required for setting up a coach factory at Kanjikode in Palakkad district of Kerala has already been acquired and the balance has been promised by the State Government to be made available according to the schedule fixed by Railway authorities;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) by when the formal clearance will be accorded for setting up the coach factory and the ground work be started?
Answer
MINISTER OF RAILWAYS
( KUMARI MAMATA BANERJEE )
(a) to (c) : A statement is laid on the Table of the Sabha.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF STARRED QUESTION No.137 BY SHRI K.E. ISMAIL TO BE ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 05-03-2010 REGARDING SETTING UP OF A COACH FACTORY AT KANJIKODE IN KERALA
(a) to (c) : Government of Kerala has stated that, out of 430 acres required for the coach factory, 235.55 acre is already available with District Collector, Palakkad and balance land will be made available according to the schedule fixed by Railways.
Planning Commission has accorded ‘in principle’ approval. Further action for approval of the project is being expedited.
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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.
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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.
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826 |
UNSTARRED |
04.03.2010 |
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY |
DNA PROFILING DATA BANK |
826. SHRI K.E. ISMAIL
Will the Minister of SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:-
(a) whether State Government of Kerala has submitted a proposal to set up a DNA profiling data bank at the cost of Rs. 6.65 crores and to be implemented jointly by the Kerala State IT Mission, Software Technology Park of India (STP) and Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology seeking financial support from the centre;and
(b) if so, the details thereof and Government`s reaction thereto?
Answer
MINISTER OF STATE FOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND MINISTER OF STATE FOR EARTH SCIENCE
(PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)
(a) No Sir.
(b) Question does not arise.
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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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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.