No. of questions found: 40
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40 |
UNSTARRED |
23.02.2010 |
HOME |
PHALGUNA |
40 . Shri MADHU GOUD YASKHI
NAVEEN JINDAL
EKNATH MAHADEO GAIKWAD
VIRENDER KASHYAP
RAJAIAH SIRICILLA
RUDRAMADHAB RAY
VISHWA MOHAN KUMAR
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether cases of cyber attacks and cyber crimes are on the rise in the country including cyber attacks on sensitive Government offices by hackers from abroad;
(b) if so, the total number of such cases reported/complaints received, the Government offices which faced such cyber attacks during each of the last three years and the current year, crime-wise, along with the details of the countries from which such cyber attacks are being carried out against the country;
(c) whether the Government has taken any steps to augment the State and Central security establishment in the country and raise a special police force to tackle rising cyber crimes/attacks;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the steps taken to safeguard sensitive Government offices from cyber attacks?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI AJAY MAKEN)
(a) & (b): Yes Madam, A total number of 31,93, 177 and 32 cyber incidents pertaining to (website defacement, website compromise and malware propagation) have been reported during the years 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 (till 31 January) respectively in the various government offices. These attacks have been observed to be coming from the computers installed in a number of foreign countries.
(c) & (d): Cyber crime cells have been set up by State Police. Central Bureau of Investigation has also set up cyber crime cell. These cells investigate cyber crime cases and help respective police organizations in implementation of laws addressing cyber crime.
(e): The Government has taken several remedial measures in regard to preventing hacking and enhancing the cyber security of information technology infrastructure in the country including formulation of Crisis Management Plan for countering cyber attacks and cyber terrorism, implementation of practices based on International Standard ISO 27001. Besides CERT-In under DIT has been set up for creating awareness about cyber security and CERT-In (Computer Emergency Response Team) conducts training programme relating to cyber security. It performs both proactive and reactive roles.
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79 |
UNSTARRED |
23.02.2010 |
HOME |
UTILISATION |
79 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has monitored the utilisation of funds meant for Tsunami Rehabilitation Programme by the States; and
(b) if so, the amount released and utilized so far by the affected States, State-wise?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI MULLAPPALLY RAMACHANDRAN)
(a) : Yes, Madam.
(b): State/Union Territory wise release of funds and actual expenditure under Tsunami Rehabilitation Programme is stated below:
(Rs. In crore)
Sl. No. State/UT Amount Released as Amount Utilized
Additional Central (Till Dec. 2009)#
Assistance (ACA)
1. Tamil Nadu 1478.12 2179.79
2. Kerala 824.85 929.7
3. Andhra 29.96 155.28
4. Puducherry 553.01 582.05
5. Andaman & Nicobar Islands 3166.86 2477.70
6052.80 6334.52
#This includes an amount of Rs. 1378.24 crore spent by the States/UTs from external assistance.
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284 |
UNSTARRED |
24.02.2010 |
EXTERNAL |
CRITERIA |
284 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government intends to change the criteria for selection of Haj pilgrims giving priority to those applicants who had applied several consecutive years but not selected; and
(b) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (DR. SHASHI THAROOR)
(a) & (b) The matter regarding priority for those Haj applicants who had applied for several consecutive years but not been selected is under the consideration of the Government.
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357 |
UNSTARRED |
24.02.2010 |
HUMAN |
INFRASTRUCTURE |
357 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has formulated any Scheme for Infrastructure Development in the Institutions (IDMI) for Minorities;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether some State Governments have forwarded such Schemes to Union Government;
(d) if so, the decision of the Union Government thereto; and
(e) the funds allocated to these States so far?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)
(a) & (b) Yes, Sir. The Scheme for Infrastructure Development of Private aided/unaided Minority Institutes (IDMI) facilitates education of minorities by augmenting and strengthening school infrastructure in Minority Institutions (elementary/secondary/senior secondary schools) in order to expand facilities for formal education to children of minority communities. The scheme encourages educational facilities for girls, children with special needs and those who are most deprived educationally amongst minorities. The scheme covers the entire country. However, preference is given to eligible minority institutions located in districts, blocks and towns with a minority population above 20%, based on available census data. It provides financial support to the extent of 75% and subject to a maximum of Rs. 50 lakhs per school for:-
(i) Strengthening of educational infrastructure and physical facilities including additional classrooms, science / computer lab rooms, library rooms, toilets, drinking water facilities etc.
(ii) Hostel buildings for children in such category of schools, specially for girls.
(iii) Any other educational infrastructure not covered in (i) or (ii) above, but which in view of the State/Central Grant in Aid Committee is justified for educational advancement of the minority institution.
(c) to (e) Proposals for financial assistance under IDMI are considered by the Central Grant-in-aid Committee (GIAC) as and when received from the States/UTs. A sum of Rs. 5 crore is earmarked for the scheme in the current financial year. Proposals have been received from Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra in the current year and are placed from time to time before the Central GIAC.
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389 |
STARRED |
22.04.2010 |
CIVIL |
PERFORMANCE |
389 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of CIVIL AVIATION be pleased to state:-
(a) the share of the private airlines and that of the National Aviation Company of India Limited (NACIL) in the overall domestic civil aviation sector;
(b) the details of growth recorded by the private sector airlines vis-a-vis national carrier since implementation of the open sky policy;
(c) whether steps have been taken by the Government to improve the performance of NACIL so as to give a tough competition to the private airlines; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF CIVIL AVIATION ( SHRI PRAFUL PATEL )
(a) to (d):- A statement is laid on the table of the House.
STATEMENT TO BE LAID ON THE TBALE OF THE LOK SBAHA IN REPLY TO STARRED QUESTION NO. 389 DATED 22.04.2010 REGARDING PERFORMANCE OF NACIL.
(a):- The details of market share of NACIL and private scheduled airlines (in percentage) in domestic sector in 2009 are as under:
Airline 2009
NACIL 17.5
Jet Air 17.9
JetLite 7.5
AirDeccan
Kingfisher 23.9
SpiceJet 12.4
Paramount 01.9
Go Air 04.7
IndiGo 13.9
Indus –
MDLR 0.27
(b):- There is no such open sky policy and all airlines are required to follow Route Dispersal Guidelines issued by the Government. The details of passenger growth recorded by NACIL and private Scheduled airlines (in percentage)in domestic sector from 2005 to 2009 are as under:-
Airline 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009
NACIL 1.03 1.74 17.72 -18.35 15.78
Jet Air 12.34 14.99 -3.52 -9.44 -10.45
JetLite 10.32 2.50 11.36 3.64 0.83
AirDeccan 207.16 158.47 24.85 -32.13
Kingfisher 349.76 87.29 20.05 -6.88
SpiceJet 229.27 69.49 8.33 33.84
Paramount – 1631.59 149.33 12.30 31.75
Go Air – 1710.00 97.46 -23.73 51.21
IndiGo 686.17 46.53 28.59
(c) and (d):- Yes, Madam. Air India takes continuous steps to improve its competitive performance. The following steps were taken by Air India in this regard:
(i) More hub & spoke services introduced.
(ii) Through flight numbers have been given on certain sectors (viz. Hyderabad-Mumbai-New York, Kolkata-Delhi-New York, Hyderabad-Mumbai-Frankfurt-Chicago, Kolkata-Delhi-London, Ahmedabad-Mumbai-London) that would improve Air India flight displays on GDS systems thus expected to improve sales.
(iii) With the new aircrafts inducted in AI`s fleet, the new aircrafts have been deployed on all the major international and domestic routes that would enable Air India to offer improved product in the important markets, improve on-time performance and reduce cost of operations.
(iv) In order to tap 6th freedom traffic, Air India has changed timing of some of the services to offer better connections. Air India offers convenient connections in both directions on following routes:
(i) Bangkok-London/Kathmandu via Delhi
(ii) Kathmandu-Dubai/Muscat via Delhi
(iii) Bangkok-London/New York/Frankfurt/Chicago via Mumbai
(iv) Dhaka-London/New York/Frankfurt/Chicago via Mumbai
(v) Singapore-Dubai via Mumbai.
After operationalization of new terminal at Delhi, Air India would be in a better position to attract more number of 6th freedom feeds over Delhi by leveraging its strength of connectivity out of Delhi.
(v) Air India is also reviewing its network strategy with the help of experts in the field.
(vi) Air India is taking the software tool for planning and scheduling.
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396 |
UNSTARRED |
24.02.2010 |
HUMAN |
ROAD |
396 . Shri NAMA NAGESWARA RAO
ANAND PRAKASH PARANJPE
RANJAN PRASAD YADAV
S. SEMMALAI
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether a road map for Public Private Partnership (PPP) in secondary education has been finalised by the Government;
(b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;
(c) whether the Government has received any proposals from Round Table on School Education and Confederation of Indian Industry;
(d) if so, the details of the proposals submitted by them; and
(e) the further steps taken or being taken by the Government in this regard?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)
(a) to (e). The centrally sponsored scheme “Scheme for setting up of 6000 Model Schools at Block Level as benchmark of excellence” envisages setting up of 2,500 model schools in blocks other than educationally backward blocks (EBBs) under Public Private Partnership(PPP).
A paper for discussion on “Public Private Partnership for Model Schools” was prepared by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in July 2008. The paper, inter alia, suggested provision of educational services by the private sector with stipulations on norms and qualities. The Round Table on School Education also set up a sub-group to suggest modalities for setting up of such schools.
In the light of various suggestions received in this regard, a viable model of PPP in school education is under formulation.
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414 |
UNSTARRED |
24.02.2010 |
ENVIRONMENT |
GREEN |
414 . Shri NAMA NAGESWARA RAO
SHRIPAD YESSO NAIK
BAIDYANATH PRASAD MAHTO
JAGDISH SHARMA
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-
(a) the name of the countries which are largest contributor, in percentage term, to green house gas emission, country-wise;
(b) whether the India alongwith other countries have made any commitments at United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to reduce emission intensity;
(c) if so, the details thereof alongwith the names of the countries which have committed to emission cut;
(d) the extent to which the emission cut has been committed by these countries including India and the time frame fixed thereto;
(e) whether such emission cut will have an adverse impact on economic development of the country; and
(f) if so, the details thereof and the remedial steps taken or being taken by the Government in this regard?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) As per current information available, the countries which are the largest contributor, in percentage term regarding green house gas emissions are China-19.5%, USA-19.2%, India-5.3%, Russia-5.1%, Japan-3.6% and Germany-2.6%.
(b) to (d) In response to Copenhagen Accord various countries including India have indicated their quantified emissions targets and domestic mitigation actions as appropriate to UNFCCC Secretariat. India, in its submission to the UNFCCC, has indicated that it shall endeavor to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 20-25% by 2020 in comparison to the 2005 level. Further India’s communication states that the proposed domestic actions are voluntary in nature and will not have a legally binding character and the actions will be implemented in accordance with the provisions of Art. 4.7 of the UNFCCC.
The countries that have committed to various range and time frame for emission cuts are Australia, Belarus, Canada, Croatia, EU and its Member States, Iceland, Japan, Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Russian Federation and USA. The details are given in Annex.
(e) & (f) India has not undertaken any commitment for quantified emissions cut. India’s domestic actions are not a legally binding undertaking, and India shall only endeavor to reduce its emission intensity of GDP. As India’s GDP grows, its emissions shall increase in absolute terms but the growth rate of emissions will moderate and this will ensure that there is no adverse impact on our economic development, particularly against the background of observed declining emissions intensity in the recent past.
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512 |
UNSTARRED |
25.02.2010 |
MINORITY |
POINT |
512 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
SURESH KUMAR SHETKAR
Will the Minister of MINORITY AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to make Prime Minister’s 15 Points Programme judicially enforceable;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) if not, the reasons therefor;
(d) the details of alternate means of enforcement being contemplated; and
(e) the demands still pending from each State especially Andhra Pradesh regarding the implementation of 15 point programme, State-wise?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS (SALMAN KHURSHID)
(a) No Madam.
(b) Does not arise
(c) to (e) The Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme for the Welfare of Minorities aims at enhancing opportunities for education, equitable share in economic activities and employment, improving the conditions of living of minorities and prevention and control of communal riots. The new programme envisages location of a certain proportion of development projects in minority concentration areas. It also provides that, wherever possible, 15% of targets and outlays under various schemes should be earmarked for minorities. Accordingly, State-wise and scheme-wise targets are fixed for benefits to minorities under various schemes included in the programme considered amenable to earmarking. Implementation of the 15 Point Programme is monitored at the State/UT and district levels by the State/District level committees for implementation of the Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme for the Welfare of Minorities. At the Centre, the progress of implementation of programme, monitored and reported by the various Ministries/Departments concerned, is reviewed every quarter by the Ministry of Minority Affairs and on half yearly basis by a Committee of Secretaries and by the Cabinet.
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645 |
UNSTARRED |
25.02.2010 |
LAW |
SUPREME |
645 . Shri PRADEEP KUMAR MAJHI
SHARAD YADAV
MEKAPATI RAJAMOHAN REDDY
GANESH SINGH
ASADUDDIN OWAISI
NAMA NAGESWARA RAO
KAUSHALENDRA KUMAR
R. THAMARAISELVAN
S. R. JEYADURAL
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of LAW AND JUSTICE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Law Commission has suggested to set up four benches of the Supreme Court in the metros and a Federal Court in Delhi exclusively for constitutional issues to reduce the huge backlog of cases;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto; and
(c) the time by which final decision is likely to be taken in this regard?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF LAW AND JUSTICE(DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY)
(a) and (b) The Law Commission of India, in its 229th Report, has recommended as under:
(1) A Constitution Bench be set up at Delhi to deal with constitutional and other allied issues.
(2) Four Cassation Benches be set up in the Northern region/zone at Delhi, the Southern region/zone at Chennai/Hyderabad, the Eastern region/zone at Kolkata and the Western region/zone at Mumbai to deal with all appellate work arising out of the orders/judgments of the High Courts of the particular region.
(c) The above recommendations are under examination in consultation with the Chief Justice of India and the Ld. Attorney General for India.
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930 |
UNSTARRED |
03.03.2010 |
HUMAN |
UPGRADATION |
930 . Shri RAJAIAH SIRICILLA
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has any plan to upgrade deemed universities at par with international levels to attract more foreign students in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the other measures taken by the Government in this regard?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)
(a): Institutions ‘Deemed-to-be-Universities’ are autonomous and are expected to maintain academic standards, on their own.
(b) & (c): Do not arise.
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980 |
UNSTARRED |
03.03.2010 |
HUMAN |
SPECIAL |
980 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to appoint special teachers to teach physically challenged students in schools in the light of Delhi High Court direction; and
(b) if so, the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this direction?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)
(a) & (b): Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Inclusive Education for the Disabled at the Secondary Stage(IEDSS)”, there is provision for special teachers at the secondary level to take care of the children with disabilities. These teachers are appointed by the concerned State Governments. Also, under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Sarva Shikha Abhiyan (SSA)”, there is provision for special teachers to impart inclusive education.
Under the “Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme” of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, grant-in-aid is provided to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for the welfare of persons with disabilities for special schools, pre-schools and early intervention centres and vocational training centres, meant for children with disability. Appointment of special teachers is an essential pre-requisite for release of grant-in-aid.
In pursuance to the direction dated 19-02-2009 of the High Court of Delhi in W.P.(C) No.6771/2008, a Monitoring Committee has been constituted by Government of National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi to supervise, monitor and ensure implementation of short term and long term measures for children with special needs (CWSN). A programme of specialized training of general teachers through Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) and NGOs working in the field has also been prepared by the Government of NCT of Delhi, and one general teacher from each school is trained. The Government of NCT of Delhi has approved creation of 926 posts of special education teachers in Delhi at the rate of one post per school.
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1051 |
UNSTARRED |
03.03.2010 |
HUMAN |
RASHTRIYA |
1051 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) the targets fixed under Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan in the country and the achievements made thereunder during each of the last three years and the current year, State-wise; and
(b) the funds sanctioned, released and utilised during the above period, State-wise?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)
(a) & (b) The Centrally sponsored scheme “Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA)” to enhance access to secondary education and to improve its quality was launched in March, 2009 and hence there was no target during the last three years. For 11th Five Year Plan, the physical targets under this scheme include opening of about 11000 new secondary schools and strengthening of 44000 existing secondary schools. For the year 2009-10, there is a plan provision of Rs.550 crore (Revised Estimate). As on date, annual plan proposals received from 31 States/UTs have been appraised for setting up of more than 2000 new schools and strengthening of more than 6500 existing schools. During 2009-10, an amount of Rs.510.69 crore has been sanctioned and an amount of Rs.216.11 crore has been released to the States. The State-wise details are annexed.
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1464 |
UNSTARRED |
05.03.2010 |
POWER |
RURAL |
1464 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
DEVJI PATEL
Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to launch at rural electrification technology mission for streamlining the rural electrification process;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has received representation from the State Government of Kerala on the inadequacy of the Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY);
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the steps taken by the Government in this regard?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI)
(a) & (b): No, Madam.
(c) to (e): Government of Kerala has submitted proposals for intensive electrification of electrified villages of 14 districts under Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY). 1 project of Idukki district is already under execution. Recently, 6 more projects of Palakkad, Wayanad, Kasargod, Kannur, Kozikode and Malappuram districts have been sanctioned under RGGVY.
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1558 |
UNSTARRED |
05.03.2010 |
FINANCE |
ISLAMIC |
1558 . Shri ASADUDDIN OWAISI
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the panel constituted by Government has submitted its report to Government on the prospects of Islamic Banking in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government propose to allow Islamic banking for pitching $ 1 trillion worth of Sharia complaint funds in the infrastructure development;
(d) if so, the details thereof;
(e) whether any decision was taken in the Indo-Arab Economic summit held in capital from February 3-4, 2010; and
(f) if not, the time by which a final decision is likely to be taken?
ANSWER
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance(Shri Namo Narain Meena)
(a) to (d) & (f): The Government of India has received demands for setting up of Islamic Banks in India from some quarters. The Committee on Financial Sector Reforms, constituted by the Planning Commission, has recommended that measures be taken to permit the delivery of interest-free finance on a larger scale, including through the Banking system. However, in the current statutory and regulatory framework, it is not feasible for banks in India to undertake Islamic banking activities in India or for branches of Indian banks abroad to undertake Islamic banking outside India.
(e): The Indo-Arab Economic summit, held recently in New Delhi, was a Business-Conference. No specific decision on the issue of Islamic banking has been received.
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1577 |
UNSTARRED |
05.03.2010 |
HEALTH |
NATIONAL |
1577 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
MADHU GOUD YASKHI
EKNATH MAHADEO GAIKWAD
KHATGAONKAR PATIL BHASKARRAO BAPURAO
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-
(a) the measures taken so far by the Government to provide accessible, affordable and reliable primary healthcare facilities to the poor people living in urban areas across the country;
(b) whether the Government has finalised the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM);
(c) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and
(d) the time by which NUHM is likely to be launched?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE(SHRI S. GANDHISELVAN)
(a) National Health Programme and the Reproductive and Child Health Phase-II provides for interventions in urban areas.
(b) No.
(c) Does not arise.
(d) There is no specific time frame for launching of NUHM.
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1612 |
UNSTARRED |
08.03.2010 |
COMMERCE |
PRICE |
1612 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to restructure Price Stabilization Fund Trust (PSFT) by including more crops such as cardamom, pepper etc.;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY(SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)
(a) to (c): While Government is not considering any restructuring of the PSFT at this stage, it keeps monitoring the performance of the schemes of the Trust with a view to establish their relevance and efficacy. As an off shoot of this review,a crop insurance scheme has been engaging the attention of the Government.
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1635 |
UNSTARRED |
08.03.2010 |
COMMUNICATIONS |
POST |
1635 . Shri SHIVARAMAGOUDA SHIVANAGOUDA
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:-
(a) the quantum of the rent paid annually for running Post Offices in the country, State-wise;
(b) the details of the allocation made, State-wise for purchase of land/space to construct Post Offices in the country during the last three years and the current year; and
(c) the time by which the proposed buildings for Post Offices are likely to be completed?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI GURUDAS KAMAT)
(a) The information regarding the quantum of the rent paid annually (for the years 2008-09 and for the current year from April, 2009 to January, 2010) for running Post Offices in the country, State-wise is given in Annexure ‘A’.
(b) The details of the allocation made, State-wise for purchase of land/space to construct Post Offices in the country during the last three years and the current year is given in Annexure ‘B’.
(c) Completion of proposed buildings for Post Offices will depend upon the availability of funds.
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1736 |
UNSTARRED |
08.03.2010 |
LABOUR |
RESERVATION |
1736 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to introduce/formulate any reservation policy for providing employment to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, Other Backward Classes and Physically Handicapped Persons in private sector;
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the norms currently being followed in this regard;
(c) whether any Group of Ministers has been constituted for the purpose; and
(d) if so, the details and composition thereof alongwith the recommendations made by the said group?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI HARISH RAWAT)
(a) to (d) There is no such proposal under consideration of Government. However, a Group of Ministers was formed in September, 2004, to examine issue of affirmative action, including reservation in private sector, and to initiate a dialogue with Industry and other associations to fulfill aspirations of youth belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. The Group met five times and also held consultations with representatives of Apex Industry Associations. In October, 2006 a Coordination Committee was constituted under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, to carry forward the dialogue with Industry on affirmative action in private sector. The Committee has held discussions with representatives of Apex Industry Chambers/Associations. As decided in the third meeting of the Coordination Committee held on 11.7.2008 a Group of Officers has been constituted in September, 2008, to study the issue of providing fiscal incentives to industries for setting up manufacturing units in backward districts with large SC/ST population. Meetings of this Group of Officers and the apex industry associations were held in September, 2008 and February, 2009. It was decided that the experiences of states in promoting industrialization and enhancing employment of SC/ST groups through incentives would be studied for designing a suitable fiscal incentive scheme for setting up manufacturing units in backward districts with large SC/ST population.
In order to promote employment of persons with disabilities in the expanding private sector, a scheme has been introduced to provide incentives to the private sector employers. The scheme is applicable to all the employees with disabilities, who are appointed on or after
1.4.2008 with monthly wage upto Rs. 25,000/- per month.
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2101 |
UNSTARRED |
10.03.2010 |
ENVIRONMENT |
DECLARATION |
2101 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Union Government has received any request from the State Government of Kerala to declare their State as ‘GM free State’ and
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Union Government thereon?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) The Government of Kerala has informed that they have taken a decision to prohibit environmental release of all Genetically Modified (GM) seeds and keep the state totally GM free.
(b) The Government of India is following a policy of case by case assessment of GM crops. A final view on the commercialization of GM plants is taken only when scientific studies establish that it is safe from the point of view of its long term impacts on human health and environment. However as agriculture is a state subject, it is the prerogative of the State Governments to decide whether to adopt GM seeds or not in their commercial production.
|
2109 |
UNSTARRED |
10.03.2010 |
ENVIRONMENT |
CREATION |
2109 . Shri P.C. GADDIGOUDAR
BAIJAYANT PANDA
CHAUHAN MAHENDRASINH
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has any proposal to create a National Environment Protection Authority (NEPA) that will deal with granting of environment clearances;
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith its present status;
(c) whether all the Stake holders including State Governments have also been consulted in the matter;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the time by which the said Authority is likely to be created?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) &(b): Yes, Sir. Ministry of Environment and Forests has initiated a proposal to establish the National Environment Protection Authority (NEPA) to strengthen the regulatory framework and to improve the environmental governance in the country.A study has been awarded to the Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi to work out the scope and configuration of the proposed NEPA.
(c) & (d) : A discussion paper on NEPA was uploaded in the Ministry’s website for comments and large number of suggestions have been received from various Stakeholders.It was also sent to the State Governments for their views. As part of the consultation process,a meeting was conducted on 26th November, 2009 in New Delhi in which representatives of State Governments, State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees, Central Pollution Control Board and line Ministries participated.
(e): The proposal to establish NEPA is in a conceptual stage.
|
2158 |
UNSTARRED |
10.03.2010 |
ENVIRONMENT |
BIODIVERSITY |
2158 . Shri K. C. VENUGOPAL
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Union Government has received any proposals from the State Government of Kerala for setting up of Biodiversity Conservation (Research and Monitoring) Centre and Conservation of Heritage Plants Centre;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Union Government has considered the request of the State Government;
(d) if so, the details thereof including the location where these centres are likely to be set up; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) to (e) Yes, Sir.The proposal on conservation of Heritage Plants Centre and for setting up of a Biodiversity Conservation (Research and Monitoring) Centre have been received by the Ministry.The proposals are being examined by the Government.
|
2258 |
UNSTARRED |
10.03.2010 |
ENVIRONMENT |
DEVELOPMENT |
2258 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
P. BALRAM
MAHESHWAR HAZARI
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has taken steps for the conservation and development of lakes in the country;
(b) If so, the details thereof;
(c) the name of lakes taken up by the Government for conservation and development; and
(d) the amount spent during the last three years in this regard, lake-wise?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS(SHRI JAIRAM RAMESH)
(a) & (b) The Ministry is implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) since June, 2001 for conservation and management of polluted and degraded lakes in urban and semi-urban areas of the country, on 70:30 cost sharing basis between the Central Government and the respective State Governments. The Plan includes core components of interception, diversion and treatment of wastewaters before their entry into the lake, catchment area treatment, shoreline protection, in-lake treatment such as aeration, de-weeding, de-siltation, bio-remediation and bio-manipulation etc. The non core activities include lake front eco-development and public participation. Total outlay under the XI Plan towards the NLCP Scheme is Rs.440 crore. Proposals for new lakes are considered for sanction subject to their admissibility as per NLCP guidelines, pollution status, prioritization and availability of funds under the Plan.
(c) & (d) The Ministry has so far sanctioned projects for conservation of 58 lakes at a cost of Rs.883.94 crore. The details of these projects and the amount released by the Central Government during last three years are at Annexure.
|
2390 |
UNSTARRED |
11.03.2010 |
CORPORATE |
SOCIAL |
2390 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of CORPORATE AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) the statutory provisions in place to ensure social commitments of corporate sector;
(b) whether the Government proposes to bring a legislation to enforce the social commitments of the corporate sector; and
(c) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS (SHRI SALMAN KHURSHID)
(a) : Presently there are no statutory provisions under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs to ensure social commitments of the corporate sector.
(b) & (c): The Ministry has issued Voluntary Guidelines on Corporate Social Responsibility in December, 2009 to encourage the corporate sector to contribute in the social and economic development of the communities.
|
2493 |
UNSTARRED |
11.03.2010 |
MINORITY |
FORMULATION |
2493 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of MINORITY AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has urged for the formulation of Model Act for all State Minority Commissions;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the reaction of the Government thereto?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS (SALMAN KHURSHID)
(a) to (c): National Commission for Minorities(NCM) has drafted a Model Act for State Minority Commissions which was also discussed in the annual conference of State Minorities Commissions held by NCM on 21.1.2009. National Commission for Minorities has advised various State Governments to examine and adopt this Model Act with suitable modifications as per specific requirement of the States, in order to bring uniformity in powers, functions, secretarial and other logistics support of the State Commissions. The matter is to be processed by the State Governments under the prescribed provisions of law.
|
2563 |
UNSTARRED |
12.03.2010 |
WOMEN |
INTEGRATED |
2563 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
SUMITRA MAHAJAN
FEROZE VARUN GANDHI
NILESH NARAYAN RANE
SANJAY JAISWAL
DEEPA DASHMUNSI
Will the Minister of WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a): the programme being implemented under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme in the country including Bihar;
(b): the details of funds allocated and utilised by the State Governments during each of the last three years and the current year so far;
(c): whether the norms laid down under ICDS Scheme are being flouted;
(d): if so, the corrective action taken by the Government in this regard;
(e): whether the Government proposes to restructure the pre-school education component of ICDS Scheme so as to develope a comprehensive approach towards the early childhood development;
(f): if so, the details thereof; and
(g): if not, the reasons therefor?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF WOMEN AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT (SHRIMATI KRISHNA TIRATH)
(a): The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme is a Centrally-sponsored Scheme implemented through the State Governments/UT Administrations, including the State of Bihar.
The Scheme provides a package of six services viz. supplementary nutrition, pre-school non-formal education, nutrition & health education, immunization, health check-up and referral services. Three services viz. Immunization, health check-up and referral services are provided in convergence with Public Health Systems.
(b), (c) & (d) : The funds are released as per Schematic norms and Statement of Expenditure. Inthe instances where it is observed that norms are not being followed, attention of StateGovernments is drawn for taking corrective actions adhere to norms like in provision of kits, construction of AWCs in North-eastern Region etc. The details of funds released by Government of India and utilized by the State Governments during each of the last three years and the funds released for the current year by Government of India are given in the Statement annexed.
(e) to (g) : The Government has increased the norms for pre-school education kits from Rs.500/- to Rs.1000/- per Anganwadi Centre, per annum w.e.f. 2009-10 and constituted a Committee for Early Childhood Education to deliberate the matter with different stakeholders & experts.
|
2591 |
UNSTARRED |
12.03.2010 |
HEALTH |
CASES |
2591 . Shri SUKENDER REDDY GUTHA
MANEKA GANDHI
J.M. AARON RASHID
P. KARUNAKARAN
LAL JI TANDON
NISHIKANT DUBEY
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has conducted any study/survey regarding prevalence of diabetes in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the corrective measures taken and assistance provided to the State Governments to check the disease in the country and the achievements made as a result thereof;
(d) whether the Union Government proposes to launch an awareness campaign to educate the people particularly in the rural areas about the hazards of diabetes; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)
(a) & (b) No recent study has been undertaken by Government of India to find out the number of diabetics’ in the country.
(c) The Planning Commission has earmarked Rs.1660.50 crore in the 11th Five Year Plan for the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Diabetes, Cardio-Vascular Diseases and Stroke (NPDCS and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has formulated the National Programme (NPDCS), which has been considered by the Expenditure Finance Committee. NPDCS has been initiated in 10 districts in 10 states on pilot basis.
(d) & (e) One of the major objectives of NPDCS is prevention and control of Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) including Diabetes through behaviour and lifestyle changes using mass media, interpersonal communication and community based activities.
|
2664 |
UNSTARRED |
12.03.2010 |
HEALTH |
DOCTORS |
2664 . Shri K. SUDHAKARAN
VIRENDRA KUMAR
KAVURI SAMBA SIVA RAO
LAL SINGH
GURUDAS DAS GUPTA
RAJAIAH SIRICILLA
SANJAY DINA PATIL
P. LINGAM
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-
(a) the total number of doctors working in the country and the number out of them working in the rural areas State/UT-wise;
(b) the details of the steps taken by the Government so far to remove the disparity in the demand and supply of the trained doctors and to encourage them to work in the rural areas;
(c) whether the Government has made one year mandatory posting in the rural areas for the medical/post medical graduates, before giving them the permanent registration;
(d) if so, the number of medical/post medical degrees given during each of the last two years and the number of doctors out of them posted in the rural areas during the said period;
(e) whether the Government proposes to increase the number of MBBS seats in the Government medical colleges and permit those who are having medical qualifications equivalent to MBBS for carrying the medical practice in the country; and
(f) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI DINESH TRIVEDI)
(a) As per information available, the total number of doctors is 7,48,757 and as on March, 2008 there were 24,375 doctors at Primary Health Centres and 4279 specialists at Community Health Centres in the country.
(b), (c) & (d) The Sambasiva Rao Committee had recommended that one year rural posting may be made mandatory for the MBBS doctors desirous of pursuing Postgraduate Medical Degree courses. While the Central Government and the Medical Council of India have not made the rural posting mandatory to pursue Postgraduate Medical Degree courses, the following Medical Council of India’s Post Graduate Medical Education Regulations have been amended to encourage doctors to serve in the rural areas:
i. 50% reservation in Post Graduate Diploma Courses for Medical Officers in the Government service who have served for at least three years in remote and difficult areas; and
ii. Incentive at the rate of 10% of the marks obtained for each year in service in remote or difficult areas upto the maximum of 30% of the marks obtained in the entrance test for admissions in Post Graduate Medical Courses.
(e) MCI Regulations have been recently amended by increasing the ceiling of 150 to 200 and 250 seats for all medical colleges. There is no proposal to permit those who are having medical qualifications equivalent to MBBS for carrying the medical practice in the country.
(f) Does not arise.
|
2872 |
UNSTARRED |
15.03.2010 |
LABOUR |
AMENDMENT |
2872 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to amend Employees` Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions (EPF & MP) Act, 1952 to cover more establishment and unorganized workers;
(b) if so, whether the Government is considering to amend rule 61 of the said Act for enabling retrenched and resigned workers within the purview of the Act; and
(c) if so, the details thereof alongwith the time by which it is likely to be amended?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI HARISH RAWAT)
(a): Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952 is applicable only to those establishments which fulfil the conditions of coverage prescribed under the Act i.e. establishments which employ 20 or more employees and are engaged in any activity falling under the notified Schedule of industries or class of establishments. Also, only those co-operative societies which employ 50 or more persons and working without the aid of power are coverable under this Act. New industries and class of establishments are notified from time to time and it is a continuous process. So far 186 industries/class of establishments have been notified. With a view to provide social security to unorganized workers, Unorganised Sector Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008 has also been enacted recently.
(b): No such rule exists in the Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952. Further para 61 of the Scheme does not cover this aspect.
(c): Does not arise in view of (b) above.
|
3243 |
UNSTARRED |
15.04.2010 |
MINORITY |
MODIFYING |
3243 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of MINORITY AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-
(a) the details of districts having Minority concentration;
(b) whether the Government proposes to review/upgrade the list of Minority Concentrated Districts (MCD) in the country; and
(c) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS (SALMAN KHURSHID)
(a) Minority Concentration Districts (MCDs) have been identified on the basis of substantial minority population and relative backwardness in terms of selected socio-economic and basic amenities parameters based on data of 2001 Census. The list of 90 identified MCDs is annexed.
(b) and (c) There is no proposal to review/upgrade the list of already identified MCDs at this stage.
|
3551 |
UNSTARRED |
16.04.2010 |
HEALTH |
TREATMENT |
3551 . Shri YOGI ADITYANATH
MANEKA GANDHI
PRABODH PANDA
NAVJOT SINGH SIDHU
MADHU GOUD YASKHI
EKNATH MAHADEO GAIKWAD
N.S.V. CHITTHAN
RUDRAMADHAB RAY
HARSIMRAT KAUR BADAL
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the number of global cancer deaths is projected to increase by 45 per cent from 2007 to 2030 as per the report of the World Health Organisation (WHO);
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the suggestions given by WHO to curb the spread of disease;
(c) the steps taken by the Government to contain the disease in the country and the achievements made as a result thereof;
(d) whether the Government proposes to set up more number of specialised cancer hospitals across the country including Punjab and Tamil Nadu to correct the imbalance in the availability of cancer care facilities and to provide treatment to cancer patients at an affordable cost; and
(e) if so, the details thereof, State/UTwise and if not, the reasons therefor?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE(SHRI S. GANDHISELVAN)
(a) & (b): According to Indian Council of Medical Research,WHO has estimated that the deaths due to Cancer are likely to increase from 7.9 million in 2007 to 12 million by the year 2030. WHO suggested that the burden of cancer can be reduced by avoidance of use of tobacco and alcohol, by fruit and vegetable intake and decreased transmission of HPV infection and by early detection of cancer and its treatment.
(c) to (e):This Ministry is implementing various schemes under the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and releasing the grant-in-aid to the Government Medical Colleges/Hospitals for upgrading the Medical infrastructure for providing cost effective treatment to the poor and needy patients. The public awareness about cancer is also carried out through Electronic and Print Media.
Till date, this Ministry has recognized 27 Regional Cancer Centres in various States/UTs including that of Punjab and Tamil Nadu. The main aim for recognizing the RCC is to fill up the geographical gaps in the availability of treatment of cancer and for carrying out research activity.
|
3593 |
UNSTARRED |
16.04.2010 |
POWER |
USE |
3593 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has made any study about the use of energy efficient appliances in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has formulated any scheme/policy for the promotion of the use of these energy efficient appliances; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER (SHRI BHARATSINH SOLANKI)
(a) & (b): Yes, Madam. The Bureau of the Energy Efficiency (BEE) has been conducting study on the impact of the use of energy efficient equipments like air-conditioners, refrigerators, tube lights and distribution transformers through National Productivity Council (NPC). The study has revealed energy saving [in Million Units (MU)] and avoided capacity [in Megawatts (MW)] by the use of efficient equipments as under:
Year Energy Saving (MU) Avoided Capacity (MW)
2007-08 1425.87 260.4
2008-09 2106.16 599.44
(c) & (d): Yes, Madam. The Standard & Labeling programme was launched on 18.05.2006 for air-conditioners, refrigerators and tubular fluorescent lamps (TFLs). The programme seeks to enhance energy efficiency of end use appliances and also requires manufacturers to affix informative labels on them. In addition to the above mentioned three appliances, distribution transformers, pumps, motors, colour television, ceiling fan, LPG stoves and storage water heaters have been added in the labeling programme.
In order to enhance use of these energy efficient appliances, BEE is regularly conducting market awareness campaigns and supporting the procurement of energy efficient appliances in the government departments, particularly Directorate General of Supply & Disposal (DGS&D). The labeling for four appliances i.e. room air-conditioners, TFLs, frost free refrigerators and distribution transformers, is now mandatory.
|
3661 |
UNSTARRED |
19.04.2010 |
RURAL |
MODIFICATION |
3661 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of RURAL DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether existing guidelines of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) requires modification;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has received any memorandum from any State Government in this regard;
(d) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;
(e) whether any revised scheme has already been announced; and
(f) if so, the details of the revised scheme?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT(SHRI PRADEEP JAIN `ADITYA`)
(a) As and when the proposals/suggestions for amendment in the existing programme guidelines are received from the State Governments, the same are considered.
(b) Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Guidelines have been amended from time to time based on the feedback/suggestions from the States. The details are available on PMGSY website i.e. www.pmgsy.nic.in
(c)&(d) 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%.
An Expert Committee had been constituted to review the standards and specifications under PMGSY. The Committee considered the representation received from the State for making recommendations. The interim recommendations of the Committee on the geometric parameters which include Carriageway width and Road way width and Road land width have been circulated to all the State for adoption for the recommendations with immediate effect.
(e) No, Sir.
(f) Question does not arise.
|
3840 |
UNSTARRED |
19.04.2010 |
COMMERCE |
BAN |
3840 . Chaudhary LAL SINGH
SANJAY BHOI
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has any proposal to ban Foreign Direct Investment(FDI) in cigarette manufacturing;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the ban on FDI in cigarette manufacturing is likely to affect the existing foreign players’ for future investments; and
(d) if so, the details thereof alongwith the reaction of the Government?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF C0MMERCE & INDUSTRY (SHRI JYOTIRADITYA M. SCINDIA)
(a) to (d): The Government has recently approved a proposal to prohibit Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in manufacturing of cigarettes and to include the activity in the list of activities prohibited for FDI. The decision of the Government is expected to enhance public accountability by way of the Government’s commitment towards proliferation of anti-smoking regime in the country.
|
4218 |
UNSTARRED |
21.04.2010 |
HUMAN |
MINORITY |
4218 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to introduce specific criteria/parameters in grant of minority status to educational institutions; and
(b) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)
(a) & (b) The minorities have a right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice under Article 30 (1) of the Constitution. Minority educational institutions are so declared by the designated authorities, if any, under the Central Government and State Governments. National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI) has prescribed indicia for grant of minority status to an educational institution which envisage inter alia, that the institution has been established by a member/members of the religious minorities for the benefit of the minorities and is administered by the minorities.
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4236 |
UNSTARRED |
21.04.2010 |
HUMAN |
COMPULSORY |
4236 . Shri JOSE K. MANI
RADHA MOHAN SINGH
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to formulate a policy for ensuring compulsory education to physically handicapped including blind and mentally challenged children;
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the funds allocated for the said scheme;
(c) the time by which the said scheme is likely to be implemented;
(d) whether the Government has any proposal to establish schools for physically disabled students;and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)
(a) to (c): According to Section 26(a) of the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Right and full Participation) Act, 1995, every child with a disability has access to free education in an appropriate environment till he attains the age of eighteen years.
A Centrally Sponsored Scheme called “Inclusive Education for the Disabled at the Secondary Stage (IEDSS)” was launched in April, 2009. The objective of the scheme is to enable all students with disabilities, who complete eight years of elementary education, to pursue secondary education (classes IX to XII) in an inclusive and enabling environment. The budget provision for the scheme for 2010- 2011 is Rs.70.00 crore.
Under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) which is a flagship programme to universalize elementary education, the policy of zero rejection of children with special needsis followed. These children are educated in the most appropriate environment suitable to their learning needs.
The proviso to Section 3(2) of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 states that a child suffering from disability, shall have the right to free elementary education in accordance with the provision of the said Act.
(d) and (e): The emphasis under SSA and IEDSS is to mainstream the children with special needs in regular schools having an inclusive environment.
|
4931 |
UNSTARRED |
26.04.2010 |
LABOUR |
COMMUTATION |
4931 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to withdraw the commutation facilities of Employees Provident Funds (EPF) pensioners;
(b) if so, whether due to reduction of pension a substantial loss has occurred to pensioners;
(c) if so, whether the Government also proposes to withdrew `Return of Capital` (ROC) Scheme
(d) if so, whether the Government is reconsidering such stands as requested by EPF pensioners;and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT(SHRI HARISH RAWAT)
(a): Option for commutation of pension does not exist as on date.
(b): In view of (a) above, the pensioner will receive full amount of pension and there is no reduction in pension.
(c): Option for ‘Return of Capital’ (ROC) does not exist as on date.
(d) & (e): There is no such proposal as on date.
|
4951 |
UNSTARRED |
26.04.2010 |
LABOUR |
ENHANCEMENT |
4951 . Shri P. KARUNAKARAN
GANGASANDRA SIDDAPPA BASAVARAJ
HANSRAJ GANGARAM AHIR
LAL SINGH
J. SHANTHA
RUDRAMADHAB RAY
KAUSHALENDRA KUMAR
R. THAMARAISELVAN
MANICKA TAGORE
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government proposes to enhance the pension under Employees` Pension Scheme (EPS), 1995;
(b) if so, whether the Government has constituted a Committee to look into various issues including enhancement of pension pertaining to EPS, 1995;
(c) if so, the recommendations made by the Committee and the action taken by the Government thereon;
(d) whether the Government has received any representations/ suggestions/complaints from various stakeholders/unions/pensioners in this regard; and
(e) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT(SHRI HARISH RAWAT)
(a) to (c): The Central Government has constituted an Expert Committee to review the Employees’ Pension Scheme, 1995, whose report is to be submitted to the Government.
(d) & (e): The main suggestions/representations/complaints received on Employees’ Pension Scheme, 1995 primarily cover the following:
ü Increase in minimum pension.
ü Increase of rate of contribution of employers and Government towards Employees’ Pension Scheme, 1995.
ü Grant of Additional Relief regularly.
ü Increase in the maximum salary limit.
ü Pension at par with Central Government.
ü Restoration of provisions of Commutation and Return of Capital.
ü DA to pensioners linked with cost of index.
The suggestions are placed before the Expert Committee for necessary consideration and recommendation.
|
5017 |
UNSTARRED |
26.04.2010 |
LABOUR |
WELFARE |
5017 . Smt. MEENA SINGH
BHAVANA PUNDLIKRAO GAWALI PATIL
RANJAN PRASAD YADAV
S. RAMASUBBU
E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) the details of the welfare schemes for women workers under implementation in the country;
(b) whether the Government has issued any guidelines to the State Governments for improving the working conditions, regulating the timing of work, safety of the women maternity benefits and payment of equal wages in different sectors;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the number of schools opened and those proposed to be opened for the education of the children of women workers in the country including Maharashtra during each of the last three years and the current year, State-wise?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT(SHRI HARISH RAWAT)
(a): The Ministry is administering a grant-in-aid scheme under which financial assistance is provided to Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)/Voluntary Organizations for taking up action programmes/projects for the benefit of women labour.
(b) & (c): No separate guidelines have been issued to the State Governments. However, adequate provisions already exist under various labour laws and rules made there under for improving the working conditions, regulating timings of work, safety of women, maternity benefits and payment of equal wages in various sectors.
(d): No separate schools have been opened/proposed to be opened for the children of women workers in the country.
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5311 |
UNSTARRED |
28.04.2010 |
WATER |
UTILISATION |
5311 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
RAGHUVANSH PRASAD SINGH
HARISCHANDRA DEORAM CHAVAN
GORAKH PRASAD JAISWAL
IJYARAJ SINGH
Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has not been able to harvest the rain water properly for its utilization;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) the estimated volume of rain water in the country and the quantity of water utilized out of it;
(d) the details of schemes being implemented by the Government for rain water harvesting including the funds allocated and utilized for the purpose during the last three years and the current year, State-wise and year-wise; and
(e) the benefits accrued or likely to accrue to the people as a result thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES (SHRI VINCENT H. PALA)
(a) to (c) The average annual precipitation is estimated as 4000 Billion Cubic Meters (BCM) in the country. After accounting for the natural process of evaporation etc., the average annual water availability in the country is assessed as 1869 BCM. It is estimated that owing to topographic, hydrological and other constraints, the utilizable water is 1123 BCM which comprises of 690 BCM of surface water and 433 BCM of replenishable ground water resources. National Water Policy states that “water resources available to the country should be brought within the category of utilizable resources to the maximum possible extent”. Due emphasis has been laid on non-conventional methods for utilisation of water such as through inter-basin transfer, artificial recharge to ground water and desalination of brackish or sea water as well as traditional water conservation practices like rainwater harvesting including roof top rianwater harvesting with a veiw to further increase the utilizable water resources. The present utilization through various measures has been assessed to be about 690 BCM.
(d) The Government of India is supplementing the efforts of States by implementing the schemes for rain water harvesting and ground water recharge as outlined in the Annexure-I and details of funds released to States under these schemes are given in the Annexure-II . The States may take up projects under these schemes to harvest the rain water for utilization.
(e) The impact assessment of Scheme implemented by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) during the IX and X Plans has indicated local rise in ground water levels and improved sustainability of dug wells/ tubewells, decrease in soil erosion and improvement in socio-economic status of farmers in cropped area.
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6515 |
UNSTARRED |
05.05.2010 |
HUMAN |
RESERVATION |
6515 . Shri E. T. MUHAMMED BASHEER
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:-
(a) whether the Government has specified the community-wise break up while allotting 27% reservation in Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Admission) Act 2006; and
(b) if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)
(a) & (b): The Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Admission) Act, 2006 provides 27% reservation in admission in central educational institutions for Other Backward Classes (OBC) category candidates who come from the non-creamy layer i.e. whose parental family income from all sources of less than Rs.4.5 lakhs annualy. Those candidates who belong to the castes notified in the Central lists of SEBCs/OBCs, as per Resolution of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment as modified from time to time based on the advice of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), are eligible for availing the benefits of reservation under the Act of 2006. List of State-wise OBCs eligible for availing the benefit of reservation is available at the web site http://ncbc.nic.in/backward- classes/index.html.