BULLETIN XI-3: Q & A IN THE 11TH SESSION OF THE PARLIAMENT OF INDIA 
LOK SABHA AND RAJYA SABHA

SESSION PERIOD: 10 AUGUST 2007 – 14 SEPTEMBER 2007

Compilation by: Environment Support Group, Bangalore, India (www.esgindia.org)

Parliament Session Dates covered : 21 & 22 August 2007

How to use this bulletin:
1)	This bulletin is organised according to questions raised to various Central Ministries.
2)	Scroll down to look up relevant topics of interest and click on topic which is hyperlinked (Ctrl + Click on the underlined words) and takes you straight to the question raised. 
3)	The type of question, date and the House in which it is raised are indicated in the format (LS/ Date) or (RS/ Date). 
4)	The question number is in the same sequence as listed in the parliament website.
5)	* indicates a question for oral answers, + indicates a question raised originally in Hindi and translated into English.
6)	No editing has been undertaken of any of the material sourced from the Parliament of India website.  This compilation is merely an exercise in reorganizing for ease of research and follow up for campaigners interested in economic, social and environmental justice issues.
7)	The next bulletin will be posted when the Parliament website is updated
8)	To receive the bulletin email: nandini@esgindia.org

Index to questions

Date	Name of Ministry	Key Word	
21 August 2007	Ministry of Tribal Affairs 	Tribal Rights, Tribal Policy	
21 & 22 August 2007	Ministry of Commerce and Industry	SEZ,   Iron ore,   Agri-Export zone,   Basmati Rice, 

 Cement,  Real Estate FDI,  Hazardous Waste

21 & 22 August 2007	Ministry of Mines	Labour Safety, Status of Mining in India, Privitisation of coal mines,

  Mining Lease Committee, Iron ore production, Khandhar mines

21 August 2007	Ministry of Home Affairs	Constitutional amendment, FCRA, Disaster management	
21 August 2007	Ministry of Human Resource Development	 NGOs	
22 August 2007	Ministry of Environment & Forests	Climate Change,  EIA Tribunal,  CRZ review,   

 Clearance for Karnataka highways upgradation,  Forestry and Conservation funds,   polluting industries, 

 National River conservation plan, threat to Ganga dolphins, Protection of degraded areas, 

 Habitation on forest land ,  Hazardous Waste ,  Forest Act Amendment,  Steel Companies

	
22 August 2007	Ministry of Panchayati Raj	Nyaya Panchayats , District Planning Committees	
22 August 2007	Questions to the Prime Minister	Nuclear energy,  Coal,  Bharat Nirman,

 Closure of power plants, Regulation of NGOs , Jaduguda mines

22 August 2007	
Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways

National Transport policy,  Sethu Samudram

	
22 August 2007	
Ministry of Labour and Employment
	
SEZ, mining workers, ship breaking , Social Security for the poor	

Index to answers

Date	Name of Ministry	Key Word	
10 August 2007	Ministry of Finance	Parameters for World Bank Assistance, Projects under PPP

14  August 2007	
Ministry of Home Affairs

Communal Violence Bill

	
10 & 16 August 2007	
Ministry of Urban Development, Housing and Poverty Alleviation

Rapid Transport System , Rajasthan JNNURM , Nagpur JNNURM , Bangalore metro, PPP Housing	
13 August 2007	
Ministry of Labour and Employment
	
Unorganised Sector Bill
	
14 & 20 August 2007	
Ministry of Mines
	
National Mineral policy, Andhra pradesh mining	
10 & 20 August 2007	
Ministry of power	
Sassan project, Power from neighbouring countries, Use of fly ash
	
13 & 21 August 2007	
Ministry of Water Resources
	
Nagarjuna Sagar, Pancheshwar 	
16 August 2007	
Ministry of Environment and Forests
	
E-Waste, Mercury, EIA Notification

17 August 2007	
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare	
World Bank project, AIDS bill, Waste management project in Madhya Pradesh

1.Ministry of Tribal Affairs

Land Rights to Tribals ( LS/ 21 August 2007)

*132. SHRI JASUBHAI DHANABHAI BARAD:
SHRI SURESH PRABHAKAR PRABHU:
Will the Minister of TRIBAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government proposes to provide to the tribals land rights, power to manage forests and protection of their intellectual property rights over biodiversity as reported in the Hindustan
Times dated July 9, 2007;
(b) if so, the details in this regard; and
(c) the time by when a final decision is likely to be taken in this regard?

Forest Rights Act ( LS/ 21 August 2007) 
†1263. SHRI ADHALRAO PATIL
SHIVAJIRAO
Will the Minister of TRIBAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) whether Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers have deprived of the benefits of Forests Rights Act;
(b) if so, the reasons there for along with the responsibility of the Government in this regard;
(c) whether the rules framed for the strengthening the institution of Gram Sabha makes it subservient to the forest department as reported in the Times of India
dated May 31, 2007;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the steps taken by the Government to modify these rules

Comprehensive National Tribal Policy ( LS/21 August 2007)
*139. SHRI RUPCHAND MURMU:
SHRI HEMLAL MURMU:
Will the Minister of TRIBAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government proposes to prepare a comprehensive tribal policy to ensure protection, all round development, welfare and empowerment of tribals etc. in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the timeframe fixed for it; and (c) the details of stake holders from various sections of the society being consulted before finalisation of such
policy?
Schemes for Tribals ( LS/21 August 2007)
1215. SHRI G. KARUNAKARA REDDY:
Will the Minister of TRIBAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) the number of schemes being implemented for tribals through the Non- Governmental Organisations in Karnataka;
and (b) the amount allocated for each scheme and utilised so far during the current year?

2.Ministry of Commerce and Industry

Exemption of Excise Duties in Special Economic Zones  ( LS/ 21 Aug 2007)
1125. SHRI S.K. KHARVENTHAN:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government of Tamil Nadu has requested the Union Government for exemption from excise duties and sale of goods in the domestic traffic area in respect of the electronics and
hardware products to be manufactured in Nanguneri Special Economic Zone as provided to the State of Uttaranchal;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) if not, the reasons therefor; and
(d) the action taken/proposed to be taken by the Union Government in this regard?

Criteria for SEZs ( RS/22 Aug 2007)
†*153. SHRI AJAY SINGH CHAUTALA: 
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether Government have laid down any criterion regarding Special Economic Zone policy in the recent past;
(b) the benefit, farmers of the country will get as a result thereof and whether they will get full money for their land and what are the State-wise details thereof;
(c) the number of SEZs approved in Haryana after SEZ policy of Government and the number of acres of land to be acquired from the farmers;
(d) the amount of compensation per acre to be paid to the farmers and the period within which such compensation would be/ has been given to the farmers after land
acquisition; and
(e) the State-wise details of total number of SEZs approved so far alongwith the number of those which will be set up on fertile land and waste land separately?

Special Economic Zones ( LS/21 Aug 2007)
†1116. SHRI VASANTRAO MORE:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government is making special efforts for Special Economic Zones (SEZs);
(b) if so, the details thereof along with the scope for industrial development in rural areas as a result of the said Zones; and (c) the extent to which Special Economic
Zones are likely to be helpful in removing unemployment?

Power Distribution by Special Economic Zones ( LS/21 Aug 2007)
1141. SHRI BASUDEB ACHARIA:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has worked out any formula for sale of power by SEZs in the domestic tariff area (DTA) as reported in Economic Times on July 25, 2007;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the action taken/proposed to be taken in this regard?

Special Economic Zones ( RS/22 Aug)

1068. DR. BARUN MUKHERJEE:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) the year/month-wise and State-wise break up of the total number of SEZs approved/awaiting approval from the date of commencement till date; and
(b) the types of industry/project, area (acres) involved and the proposed amount of investment and expected employment generation in each of these SEZs?

Approval to SEZs ( RS/22 Aug)
1078. SHRI M.V. MYSURA REDDY:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether it is a fact that approvals for more than 150 SEZs have been granted by Government;
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the number of new approvals likely to be accorded, State-wise;
(c) whether there is any proposal before Government to change the guidelines and rules for SEZs in view of the public authority; and
(d) if so, the details thereof ?

Viability of Special Economic Zones ( LS/ 21 August 2007)
1182. SHRI M.P. VEERENDRA KUMAR:
SHRIMATI NIVEDITA MANE:
SHRI EKNATH M. GAIKWAD:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether International Monetary Fund, Asian Development Bank and World Trade Organisation have questioned the viability of Special Economic Zones in India as reported in Business Standard on
May 25, 2007;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard?

Export of iron ore ( RS/22 Aug)
*142. SHRI S.S. AHLUWALIA:
 Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether it is a fact that substantial volume of iron ore is being exported by various PSUs and companies in private sector;
(b) if so, the details of annual volume and value of iron ore exports since 2002-03 till 30th June, 2007;
(c) whether duties have been levied by Government on iron ore export consignments;
(d) if so, the details of genesis of export duty levied on iron ore indicating rates thereof since its inception till 30th June, 2007;
(e) the date of its last revision; and
(f) whether it was revised due to demands from stakeholders or unilaterally by Government?

Agri Export Zone ( LS/21 Aug 2007) 
†1132. SHRI ANJAN KUMAR M. YADAV:
SHRI MANSUKHBHAI D. VASAVA: 
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has decided to set up Agriculture Export Zone in each State;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the details of zones set up alongwith its places thereof;
(d) the number of zones yet to be set up alongwith the reasons; and
(e) the steps taken/proposed to be taken for setting up the Export Zones?

Patent on Basmati Rice ( LS/21 Aug 2007)
1142. SHRI FRANCIS FANTHOME:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether Basmati Rice is being sold as "Made in Italy" in certain parts of the world;
(b) if so, whether the Government has recently taken up the patenting of Basmati rice as a product of India
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the difficulties being faced by the Government in patenting basmati rice as an Indian produce?

Availability of Cement ( LS/21 Aug 2007)
†1144. SHRI CHANDRA MANI TRIPATHI:
SHRI MADAN LAL SHARMA:
SHRI NAVJOT SINGH SIDHU:
PROF. M. RAMADASS:
DR. LAXMINARAYAN PANDEY:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether industry is badly affected due to shortage of cement;
(b) if so, whether the demand of cement has gone up rapidly during the last two years;
(c) if so, the details of total demand and supply of cement in the country during the above said period and the current year, separately; 
(d) whether the Government proposes to import cement in view of its shortage;
(e) if so, the names of the countries from which the Government is contemplating to import cement; and
(f) the time by when such imports is likely to be made?

Exorbitant hike in cement price ( RS/22 Aug)
†1064. SHRI PYARELAL KHANDELWAL: 
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether Government are aware of the fact that cement manufacturing companies of the country are increasing the prices of cement exorbitantly by forming a cartel;
(b) whether it is also a fact that Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Commission (MRTPC) has issued a notice also to some companies in this regard;
(c) if so, the details thereof; and
(d) whether Government are considering to administer the prices of cement in view of the attitudes of the cement companies?

FDI in Real Estate ( LS/21 Aug 2007)
†1145. SHRI RAJIV RANJAN SINGH "LALAN":
DR. CHINTA MOHAN:
SHRI K.S. RAO:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) the Funds of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in real estate projects attracted each year during the last three years and factors responsible for low flow of FDI in the sector;
(b) whether the Government proposes to formulate a policy with single window clearance system for making existing regulations more flexible to encourage private sector builders and foreign investors
to invest in real estate and construction sectors; and
(c) if so, the details thereof?

Import of Hazardous Waste ( LS/21 August 2007)
1230. SHRI KISHANBHAI V. PATEL:
SHRI SUGRIB SINGH:
Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has fixed any guidelines/norms for import of hazardous waste in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether private firms are illegally importing hazardous waste;
(d) if so, the details of such firms found violating norms alongwith the quantum and value of such imports made during 2005-06 and 2006-07;
(e) the action taken against such firms; and
(f) the steps taken to check such imports?

3.Ministry of Mines

Labour Safety ( LS/21 Aug 2007)
†1122. SHRIMATI SUMITRA MAHAJAN:
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:
(a) the present number of labourers engaged in mines with production potential;
(b) the number of labourers who lost their lives in the mine accidents during the each of the last three years, State-wise;
(c) whether any compensation has been paid to the affected families of the labourers; 
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?

Safety for Mine Workers ( LS/21 August 2007)
1183. SHRI VIJOY KRISHNA:
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has prescribed safety measures for workers working in various mines in the country;
(b) if so, the details of the mandatory requirements of the management of mines;
(c) whether some mines have been found lacking in the implementation of safety measures;
(d) if so, the details thereof during each of the last three years; and
(e) the action taken against the defaulters alongwith the steps taken/ proposed to be taken by the Government for effective implementation of the safety measures in the mines?

Status of Mineral Production ( LS/21 August 2007) 
†1284. SHRI MAHAVIR BHAGORA:
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:
(a) whether the production of iron-ore, aluminium, copper cotted, zinc (concentrated), lead (concentrated), gold (ore), magnese ore, chromite and diamond has declined year by year;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) the details of the target fixed for the production of these items and the total quantity of these items produced alongwith the demand in respect of the said items
during the last three years;
(d) whether the decline in production of the above substances has led the price rise of these items; and 
(e) if so, the measures taken by the Government to contain the said price-rise?
Aerial Survey on Mines ( LS/21 August 2007)
†1307. SHRI SUBHASH SURESHCHANDRA DESHMUKH:
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:
(a) whether aerial survey has been expedited for promotion of exploration and mining of minerals in the country especially in backward and rural areas of the country;
(b) if so, the details alongwith the outcome thereof, State-wise;
(c) whether exploration work has been assigned to some foreign companies during the last three years, till date
(d) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and
(e) the steps taken by the Government to assign survey work to the Indian companies?

Mining as per GSI Data ( LS/21 Aug 2007)
†1175. SHRI RAMJI LALSUMAN:
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:
(a) whether mining activities are not being carried out in accordance with the data provided by the Geological Survey of India (GSI);
(b) if so, the details and the facts thereof;
(c) the contents of the report of Geological Survey of India's regarding various minerals in the country as on June, 2007 along with the names of minerals; and (d) the details of minerals extracted to
the extent of 50 per cent of their potential?

Privatisation of Coal Mines ( LS/22 August 2007)
†*146. SHRI ANANT GUDHE:
SHRIMATI (SAW.)
KALPNA RAMESH NARHIRE:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) whether there is any proposal under consideration of the Government for privatisation of coal mines in the country;
and
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?

Committee for Mining Lease ( LS/21 August 2007)
1199. SHRI JUAL ORAM:
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has set up a High Power Committee to speed up the cases for mining lease;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the details of cases reviewed and cleared by the High Power Committee; and
(d) the factors taken into consideration while clearing the cases for mining lease?

Production of Iron Ore ( LS/21 August 2007)
†1205. SHRI BRAJESH PATHAK:
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has made any estimation of the iron ore produced from each mine during each of the last three years;
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the value of iron ore exported out of its total production;
(c) whether there are sufficient reserve of iron ore in the country; and
(d) if so, the total estimated difference in export and import of iron ore in terms of value?

Allotment of Iron Ore Mines (LS/21 August 2007)
†1187. SHRI HANSRAJ G. AHIR:
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has decided to allot iron-ore mines to the private sector;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the number of proposals sent by the private sector for allotment of iron-ore mines to the Government;
(d) the action taken by the Government thereon;
(e) the number of iron-ore mines allotted to the private sector, till date;
(f) whether the Government proposes to allow the private sector mines to export the iron-ore; and
(g) if so, the details thereof?

Grant of Licence of Khandhar Mines to POSCO ( LS/ 21 August 2007)
1337. SHRI ASADUDDIN OWAISI:
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has received any request for granting license for the Khandhar mines;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Union Government has sought any clarification from the Orissa for grant of a license for the Khandhar mines to POSCO, while ignoring the application of Kudremukh Iron Ore
Company as reported in the Times of India dated June 18, 2007;
(d) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government of Orissa;
(e) the present policy of the Government in regard; and
(f) the steps taken or being taken by Government?

4.Ministry of Home Affairs

Recommendation of NHRC for Amendment in Constitution (LS/21 August 2007)

†1251. SHRI HEMLAL MURMU:
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has decided to make recommendation to the Government regarding amendment in the Constitution
to root out corruption and for constitution of Anti-Corruption Commission as reported in Jansatta dated June 4, 2007;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the time by when such recommendations are likely to be submitted to the Government?

Foreign Contribution Regulation Act ( LS/21 August 2007)
1287. SHRI PRABHUNATH SINGH:
SHRI KINJARAPU YERRANNAIDU:
SHRI NARAYAN CHANDRABORKATAKY:
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has any proposal to amend the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act; and
(b) if so, the time by when such amendment is likely to be completed?

Funds for Disaster Management ( LS/21 August 2007)
†1306. SHRI HEMLAL MURMU:
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has received any request from the States for releasing the central assistance for disaster management;
(b) if so, the amount sanctioned and released for disaster management to each State of the country during each of the last three years;
(c) the details of the actual expenditure incurred and unspent balance on each disaster in respect of each State of the country;
(d) whether the Government receives information regarding amounts released/ pending for disaster management from StateGovernments; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?

5.Ministry of Human Resource Development

Contribution of NGOs ( LS/21 August 2007)
1196. SHRI RAGHUNATH JHA:
Will the Minister of HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:
(a) the funds sanctioned and released during 2005-06 and 2006-07 to Non- Governmental Organisations, Scheme-wise and State-wise;
(b) the value addition and contribution by NGOs to the education sector;
(c) whether the Government is funding NGOs only in select innovative schemes;
(d) if so, the achievements made by those NGOs; and
(e) the manner in which the programme has been benefited?

6.Ministry of Environment and Forests

World Bank Report on Climate Change ( LS/22 August 2007)
†*141. SHRI J.M. AARON RASHID:
SHRI SURAJ SINGH:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the World Bank in its latest report has pointed out the possibility of economic disturbance, increase in social and environmental problems and large scale migrations due to climate changes
occurring in South Asia;
(b) if so, the details of the report;
(c) whether the Government has conducted any study and assessed the impact of climate change on the country;
(d) if so, the outcome thereof; and
(e) the measures taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to contain impacts of climate change?

Meeting on Climate Change ( LS/22 August 2007)
1387. DR. M. JAGANNATH:
SHRI JASUBHAI DHANABHAI BARAD:
SHRI SURESH PRABHAKAR PRABHU:
SHRI SURESH KALMADI:
SHRI M. K. SUBBA:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the first meeting of the National Council on Climate Change was held recently;
(b) if so, the details of the discussions held and the decisions taken therein to contain the impact of climate change;
(c) whether the Government proposes to undertake a major afforestation programme called as Green India;
(d) if so, the details of the programme worked out;
(e) the area of degraded forestland in hectares likely to be converted into green areas under this programme, State-wise;
and
(f) the amount likely to be spent thereon?

Tribunal for Environmental Impact Assessment ( LS/22 August 2007)
†*142. SHRI RAGHUVEER SINGH KOSHAL:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) whether any notification/order/ instruction/guideline has been issued by the Government for setting up of a Tribunal for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and also for setting up State Level
Expert Appraisal Committees (SLEAC) in various States;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the latest progress made in this matter and the prospective schemes in this regard; and
(d) the details of the composition of the Tribunal?

Review of Coastal Regulations ( LS/22 August 2007)
*160. SHRI SANAT KUMAR MANDAL:
SHRI M.P. VEERENDRAKUMAR:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has taken any initiatives to review the coastal regulations;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the extent to which these regulations are expected to safeguard the coastal regions of the country?

Pending Proposals for Environmental Clearance ( LS/ 22 August 2007)
1353. SHRI G. KARUNAKARA REDDY:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS  be pleased to state:
(a) the details of proposals for  removing/cutting of trees for upgradation of Highways in Karnataka which are pending for environmental clearance;
(b) time since when the request is pending; and
(c) by when, the clearance is likely to be accorded? 

Funds for Forestry and Wildlife Conservation ( LS/22 August 2007)
†*147. SHRIMATI RUPATAI DILIPRAO
NILANGAKAR PATIL:
SHRI ASADUDDIN OWAISI:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) whether large amount of money meant for forestry and wildlife conservation has been lying unspent in spite of repeated orders of the Supreme Court as reported in
the Times of India dated May 4, 2007;
(b) if so, the details thereof including the unspent amount and the time since when the said amount remained unspent;
(c) the reasons therefor; and
(d) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to utilize the funds fully?

Polluting Industries ( LS/22 August 2007)
†*150. DR. RAMKRISHNA KUSMARIA:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) the number of industries inspected by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) under the Environment Vigilance  Scheme during the last three years;
(b) the number of industries found to be violating pollution control norms alongwith the details of their offences;
(c) whether the CPCB has given any directions to close down such industries;
and
(d) if so, the details thereof alongwith the status of such industries as on date?

National River Conservation Plan  ( LS/ 22 August 2007) 
*156. SHRI RAVI PRAKASH VERMA:
SHRI ANANDRAO V. ADSUL:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) whether there is any proposal to revamp the Rs. 5,000 crore National River Conservation Plan;
(b) if so, the details of the strategy adopted by the Government to revamp National River Conservation Plan and the reasons therefor;
(c) whether there is lack of coordination among different departments and States working on the programmes; and
(d) if so, the steps taken by the Union Government for establishing coordination among different departments and the States working on the conservation
programmes?

Threat to Ganga Dolphins ( LS/ 22 Aug 2007)
†1417. SHRI AVTAR SINGH BHADANA:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

be pleased to state:
(a) whether the industrial effluents released by Simbhavali Sugar Mill into the river Ganga near Gadhmukteshwar has  caused a threat to the very existence of a rare species like Ganga Dolphins, known
for their peculiarities in the world;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the action taken by the Government to check the pollution caused by the said sugar mill?

Protection of Degraded Areas ( LS/ 22 August 2007) 
1359. SHRI IQBAL AHMED SARADGI:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Union Government has received proposal from the State Government of Karnataka regarding protection of existing mangrove plantations, afforestation of degraded areas with
mangrove prop gules, research activities, awareness programme, monitoring etc.;
(b) if so, the details thereof along with fund sought therefor;
(c) whether the proposal is still pending with Union Government;
(d) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(e) the time by which these projects are likely to be cleared?

Habitation on Forest Land  ( LS/22 August 2007 )
†1416. SHRI MANSUKHBHAI D. VASAVA:
SHRI G. KARUNAKARA REDDY:
DR. DHIRENDRA AGARWAL:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

be pleased to state:
(a) whether large number persons including the farmers and the tribals are residing in the forest land and doingcultivation in forest land for so many years;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Union Government proposes to handover such forest land to the landless farmers and the tribals who are residing there for more than 12 years;
(d) the time by which a final decision in this regard is likely to be taken; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?

Import of Hazardous Waste by Private Firms ( LS/22 Aug 2007)
1485. SHRI K.C. SINGH "BABA":
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) whether certain private firms are illegally importing hazardous wastes which are being dumped into various States;
(b) if so, the details thereof including the quantity and nature of wastes imported and the names of the States where such wastes are being dumped; and
(c) the steps being taken by the Government in this regard?

Amendment in Indian Forest Act, 1927 ( LS/ 22 Aug 2007)
1558. SHRI KISHANBHAI V. PATEL:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government proposes to replace/amend the Indian Forest Act of 1927;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Union Government has consulted the State Governments in this regard;
(d) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the States thereto;
(e) the details of the powers delegated to various officials/agencies in the new IFA;
and
(f) the time by which the Government is likely to amend the Act?

Environmental Clearance for Steel Companies ( LS/22 Aug 2007)
1427. SHRI JUAL ORAM:
SHRI TATHAGATA SATPATHY:
Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:
(a) the norms prescribed for giving environment clearance for establishment of steel plants in the country;
(b) the names and the number of steel companies obtained environmental clearance during the last three years for the establishment of steel plants in the country,
particularly in Orissa, State-wise;
(c) whether all the companies, which obtained environmental clearance, fulfilled the prescribed norms;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) if not, the reasons for giving environmental clearance to such companies?

7.Ministry of Panchayati Raj

Setting up of Nyaya Panchayats ( LS/22 August 2007)
†*153. SHRI SANTOSH GANGWAR:
Will the Minister of PANCHAYATI RAJ be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Union Government is contemplating to set up Nyaya Panchayats with a view to strengthening the Panchayats by giving them judicial powers;
(b) if so, the details thereof including the ambit of their jurisdiction; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

District Planning Committees ( LS/22 Aug 2007)
1518. SHRI BHARTRUHARI MAHTAB:
Will the Minister of PANCHAYATI RAJ be pleased to state:
(a) whether some States have not formed the District Planning Committees;
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the reasons therefor, State-wise; 
(c) the main functions of the District Planning Committees;
(d) the names of the States who have  not framed rules for the functioning of District Planning Committees;
(e) whether the Government is considering any proposal to strengthen District Planning Committees; and
(f) if so, the details thereof?

8.Questions to the Prime Minister

Indo-Japan Agreement ( LS/22 August 2007)
1344. SHRIMATI C.S. SUJATHA:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has signed any agreement with Japan for development of nuclear energy sources; and
(b) if so, the details thereof?

Safety Norms for Nuclear Plants ( LS/22 August 2007)
1395. SHRI SUBRATA BOSE:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) the safety norms laid down for our nuclear plants;
(b) whether these norms are adequate;
(c) if not, the reasons therefor;
(d) whether the Government proposes to establish an independent Nuclear Plant Monitoring System for the safety of Nuclear Plants;
(e) if so, the details thereof;
(f) whether the Government proposes to replace the obsolete reactors; and
(g) if so, the details thereof?

New Coal Reserves  ( LS/22 August 2007)
1364. SHRI NARAHARI MAHATO:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) whether any new coal reserve has been discovered in the country, especially in Orissa and West Bengal;
(b) if so, the details thereof and approximate coal reserve in those new locations; and
 (c) the steps taken for the exploration  of coal from those areas?

Foreign Collaboration for Coal Mining ( LS/22 Aug 2007)
1493. SHRI BASUDEB ACHARIA:
SHRI PRABODH PANDA:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) whether Coal India Ltd. (CIL) has contemplated to tie-up with foreign countries for underground mining in the
country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the action taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard;
(d) whether the foreign mining companies are likely to get the Government's approval to acquire 49 per cent stake in coal mines in the country; and
(e) if so, the reasons therefor?

World Bank Loan for Bharat Nirman ( LS/ 22 August 2007)
†1380. SHRI SUBHASH SURESHCHANDRA DESHMUKH:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government has sought loan from the World Bank of 'Bharat Nirman Yojna' projects;
(b) if so, the details thereof project-wise;
(c) whether the Government has received the loan from the World Bank for the scheme; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?

Closure of Captive Power Plants ( LS/22 Aug 2007)
†1425. SHRI MOHD. TAHIR:
SHRI BRAJESH PATHAK:
SHRI TATHAGATA
SATPATHY:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) whether some captive power plants have been shut down due to shortage of coal in country as reported in Rashtriya Sahara dated July 28, 2007;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the quantum of power in MW being affected due to closure of such plants; and
(d) the total quantity of coal being provided to such plants per day?

Proposal for Regulating NGOs ( LS/22 Aug 2007)
1460. SHRI KINJARAPU YERRANNAIDU:
SHRI IQBAL AHMED SARADGI:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Planning Commission has made a proposal seeking to regulate the functioning and funding of Non- Governmental Organizations/Voluntary Organisations in the form of a Draft
National Paper;
(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the suggestions made by the Planning Commission;
(c) whether the Planning Commission has released/finalised the National Policy on Voluntary Sector/Non-Governmental Organisations; and
(d) if not, the reasons for pendency/ delay in finalising the policy and the time by which it is likely to be finalised and implemented?

Uranium Mining in Jaduguda  ( LS/22 Aug 2007)

1510. SHRI NARAHARI MAHATO:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) the number of tailing ponds in Jaduguda where mining of uranium is undertaken;
(b) the total number of people being evicted by tailing ponds including the details of the compensation paid to them;
(c) whether they have been rehabilitated;
(d) if not, the reasons therefor;
(e) the emission level of the radioactive wastes being dumped in tailing ponds;
(f) the number of people suffering from diseases caused by radiation in Jaduguda;
(g) the precautions being taken to prevent the ill-effects of radioactivity in uranium mines and its surrounding areas;
and
(h) the reasons for uranium wastes being brought back to Jaduguda from all over the country?

9.Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways

National Transport Policy ( LS/ 22 Aug 2007)
†1556. SHRI ANANDRAO V.ADSUL
SHRI S.K. KHARVENTHAN:
Will the Minister of SHIPPING, ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government proposes to formulate a national transport policy for development of public transport infrastructure in Urban and Rural areas;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the policy will help reduce the density of private vehicles and also reduce road accidents and encourage adoption of environment-friendly and energy-efficient technology;
(d) whether a budgetary provision has been made in this regard; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?

Sethusamudram Ship Channel Project ( LS/22 Aug 2007)
1445. SHRI A.V. BELLARMIN:
Will the Minister of SHIPPING, ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Sethusamudram Ship channel project has any adverse impact on the livelihood of people living in the vicinity of the project site;
(b) if so, the villages affected by the project; and
(c) steps taken/proposed to be taken in this regard?

10.Ministry of Labour and Employment

Amendment in Central Labour Laws for SEZ ( RS/22 Aug)

†1164. SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH:
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:
(a) whether it is a fact that a proposal has been sent by the Madhya Pradesh Government to the Central Government to amend Central Labour Laws for Special Economic Zone (SEZ) of Indore, Madhya
Pradesh;
(b) whether the proposals regarding these labour laws have been considered by Government;
(c) whether these labour laws have been accepted by Government under intimation to the Government of Madhya Pradesh; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?

Safety measures in mines ( RS/22 Aug)
1165. SHRI RAJKUMAR DHOOT:
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:
(a) whether Government have prescribed safety measures for workers, working in various mines;
(b) if so, the details of the mandatory safety requirements, management of mines has to implement;
(c) the number of cases where the managements of mines were found lacking in the implementation of safety measures
during last three years; and
(d) the action taken against the defaulters?

Health hazards workers are facing in Ship breaking industry ( RS/22 Aug)
1174. SHRI TARINI KANTA ROY:
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:
(a) whether it is a fact that ship breaking industry workers are often compelled to break ships of foreign origin having materials like asbestos, which causes serious health hazards; and
(b) the preventive measures being taken by the authorities to protect the workers from such health hazards?

National Social Security Scheme for poor ( RS/22 Aug)
1175. SHRI SHANTARAM LAXMAN NAIK: 
Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:
(a) whether Government propose to enact a law or a scheme for the purpose of National Social Security;
(b) if so, the essential features of the proposed legislation or scheme;
(c) the names of the States, if any, implementing Social Security Scheme for the poor under their respective legislations/ schemes; and
(d) if so, the details of each of the schemes?

Answers

1.Ministry of Finance

Parameters for world bank assistance  ( LS / 10 Aug 2007)

SHRI GOWDAR MALLIKARJUNAPPA  SIDDESWARA
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-  
(a) whether World Bank’s assistance programme for developmental projects in various States are linked to certain parameters of fiscal reforms;  
(b) if so, the details thereof;  
(c) whether the Government has laid down a fiscal reforms road map for the respective State Governments to enable them avail of the World Bank funds for various developmental projects; and  
(d) if so, the details thereof ? 
ANSWER
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE (P. CHIDAMBARAM) 
(a) No, Sir. 
(b) Does not arise. 
(c) No, Sir. The State Governments formulate their own fiscal correction path in conformity with their respective Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Acts, if any, and avail of the incentive of debt waiver under Debt Consolidation and Relief Facility (DCRF). 
(d) Does not arise. 

Operationalisation Of Projects Under PPP ( LS/ 10 Aug 2007)
10.SHRI SHIVAJI ADHALRAO PATIL  ,ANANDRAO VITHOBA ADSUL , RAVI PRAKASH VERMA :
Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-  
(a) whether the government is considering utilization of world bank funds to set up a dedicated cell in all ministries related to infrastructure to expedite projects planned under public private partnership;  
(b) If so, the details in this regard;  
(c) The steps taken by the Central Government in this regard; and  
(d) The measures taken by the Union Government to operationalise scheme well in time? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE (SHRI PAWAN KUMAR BANSAL) 

(a) No, Sir. 

(b) to (d) Do not arise

2.Ministry of Home Affairs  

COMMUNAL VIOLENCE BILL,2005 ( LS/ 14 August 2007)
399. SHRI SURAVARAM SUDHAKAR REDDY , GURUDAS DAS GUPTA:
Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:- 

(a) whether the various organisations/groups have opposed the proposed Communal Violence (Prevention, Control and Rehabilitation of Victims) Bill, 2005 in its present form and have demanded its withdrawal; 

(b) if so, the details thereof; and 

(c) the reaction of the Government thereto? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI SRIPRAKASH JAISWAL) 

(a) and (b): Representations have been received from some organisations/ groups suggesting, inter alia, to include targeted mass crimes; all gender-based crimes beyond schedule of offences; increased accountability of State Government authorities; national uniform entitlements of relief and rehabilitation for victims of communal violence; etc. within the ambit of the Bill. Suggestions have also been received to remove violence between different groups, castes or ethnic groups from the purview of the Bill and restricting the Bill to deal with communal violence only; requirement of receipt of request from State Governments for deployment of armed forces by Central Government; requirement of Government’s sanction for prosecution of public servants. The groups have also urged the Government to redraft the Bill keeping in view their observations. 

The aforesaid Bill was introduced in Rajya Sabha on 5.12.2005 and it was referred to the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee. The Bill was also put on website and consultations were held by Government at various places. The Standing Committee obtained the views of the State Governments and political parties and also heard legal and constitutional experts, NGOs, etc. and after examining the Bill clause by clause submitted its report to the Parliament on 13.12.2006 making various observations/ recommendations. Keeping in view the Standing Committee report and after consulting the Ministry of Law and Justice, the official amendments have been introduced in the Bill and a Notice has been given in Rajya Sabha on 9.3.2007 for consideration and passing of the Bill along with the official amendments. Notices of amendments were also given in Rajya Sabha on 27.4.2007 by Shri Prasanta Chatterjee and Shri Moinul Hassan, MPs incorporating some of the suggestions mentioned above. 

(c): Does not arise in view of the position stated above. 

              
3.Ministry of Urban Development, Housing and Poverty Alleviation

 RAPID TRANSPORT SYSTEM ( LS/ 10 August 2007)
54. SHRI KISHANBAI VESATBHAI PATEL, SUGRIB SINGH, EKNATH MAHADEO GAIKWAD AND NIVEDITA MANE   
Will the Minister of URBAN DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:- 

(a) whether the Government proposes to improve the infrastructure for rapid transport system in various cities in the country by imposing local cess on Petrol and Diesel to collect funds for this system; 

(b) if so, the details thereof; 

(c) whether the Government has made any assessment of the expenditure to be incurred in setting up of such transport system in the country; and 

(d) if so, the details thereof and if not the reasons therefor? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT ( SHRI AJAY MAKEN ) 

(a): Presently, no such proposal is under consideration. 

(b): Does not arise. 

(c)&(d): An assessment of investment has been made for the mobility needs of small and medium towns (1-5 lakh population cities; 5 to 10 lakh population cities; 10-40 lakh population category cities and more than 40 lakh population category cities) during the 11th Five Year Plan which include investment in pedestrianisation, non-motorized vehicles, improvement in quality of roads, decongestion of some of the crowded areas, improvement of busy inter-sections, provision of parking spaces, introduction of modern city bus services, introduction of Mass Rapid Transport System (road/rail based) etc. The projected investment requirement in these different categories during the 11th Plan is as under: 

Requirements of funds			Rs. in crore

Transport Planning & Capacity Building	350

0.1-0.5 million cities			7,400

0.5-1 million cities				7,800

1-4 million cities				26,040

4 million plus cities			21,000

Mass Rapid Transit for Mega cities		32,000
(Rail Based)

Modern state of the art buses		38,000

Total					1,32,590

             
CITIES OF RAJASTHAN UNDER JNNURM ( LS/ 10 August 2007)
92. PROF. RASA SINGH RAWAT

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

(a) the names of cities of Rajasthan selected under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission; 

(b) the funds proposed to be provided under this Mission for development works; 

(c) whether any time limit has been fixed for completion of the projects under JNNURM; and 

(d) if so, the details thereof? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT ( SHRI AJAY MAKEN ) 

(a): Jaipur and Ajmer-Pushkar are selected cities of Rajasthan under sub-Mission-I Urban Infrastructure & Goverance (UIG) of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). Cities which are not covered under the UIG have been covered under another scheme of the Ministry, namely, Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns (UIDSSMT). 

(b)to(d): The Government of India has committed Rs.50,000 crore for the mission which is for 7 years beginning from 3rd December, 2005 to 2012. The indicative allocation for Rajasthan during 2005-12 for UIG is Rs.589.69 crore and Rs.401.43 crore for UIDSSMT. The projects are expected to be completed during the mission period. 

FUNDS FOR NAGPUR MUNICIPAL CORPORATION UNDER JNNURM ( RS/ 16 August 2007)
578. SHRI DATTA MEGHE

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

(a) whether Nagpur Municipal Corporation has applied for second instalment of the amount given under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) by the Central Government; 

(b) if so, whether the second instalment has been released; 

(c) if not, the reasons for the delay in this regard; and 

(d) the elaborate details of the projects on which work has to be undertaken under the second instalment? 
ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT 

( SHRI AJAY MAKEN ) 

(a): Yes, Sir. 

(b): No, Sir. 

(c)&(d): Release of second instalment for the project approved under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) depends upon achievement of milestones fixed for project and reforms implementation, besides the specific requirements attached with the submission of utilization certificate. Since information/documents submitted do not fulfill the requirements, no release in second instalment has been done.

BANGALORE METRO RAIL  ( RS/ 16 August 2007)

576. SHRIMATI PREMA CARIAPPA

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

(a) the total cost of the Metro-rail project for Bangalore city; 
(b) the share of the Central Government in the project; 
(c) whether there is satisfactory progress so far in the project; and 
(d) by when the project is going to be completed? 
ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT 

( SHRI AJAY MAKEN ) 

(a): The estimated completion cost of the project is Rs.6395 crores. 
(b): The Central Government`s share is 25% of the project cost 
(15% of the project cost in the form of Equity and 10% of the project cost in the form of Subordinate debt). In addition to this, Government of India is also providing Senior term debt of Rs.1795 crores from JBIC (Japan Bank for International Cooperation) to Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation for the project as Pass Through Assistance. 
(c): Yes, Sir. 
(d): By December, 2011.

PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP IN HOUSING SECTOR ( LS/ 10 August 2007)
56. SHRI SHIVAJI ADHALRAO PATIL & ANANDRAO VITHOBA ADSUL
Will the Minister of HOUSING AND URBAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION be pleased to state:- 

(a) whether the Government has decided to take private developers and builders on board to cater to the spiraling demand of houses in cities and towns; 

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

(c) whether the Government has consulted industry leaders, institutions and civil society organizations to come out with a suitable model for public-private partnership in the housing sector; 

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

(e) whether Government has approved setting up of a regulator for the housing sector; and 

(f) if so, the time by which such regulator would become functional? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOUSING & URBAN POVERTY ALLEVIATION (KUMARI SELJA) 

(a)&(b): Yes, Sir. The National Housing and Habitat Policy for 1998 provides for participation of the private sector in land assembly, construction of houses and development of amenities within the projects. 

(c)&(d): A National Conference on `Affordable Housing for All`was organized in Mumbai on 1st and 2nd June, 2007 by the Government in collaboration with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to address the issues and problems related to Housing sector of the country. 

(e): No, Sir. 

(f): Does not arise in view of reply to (e) above. 

              
4.Ministry of Labour and Employment

UNORGANISED WORKERS SOCIAL SECURITY BILL, 2007 ( LS/ 13 Aug 2007)
SHRI RASHEED MASOOD  & ASADUDDIN OWAISI
*21.Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:- 

(a) whether the Government has received any report containing some recommendations from the National Commission for Enterprises in the Unorganised Sector (NCEUS);  
(b) if so, the details of recommendations made by the Commission;  
(c) whether the Commission has also recommended the imposition of social security tax for the benefit of workers in the unorganized sector;  
(d) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto;  
(e) the progress made in finalizing the Unorganised Workers Social Security Bill, 2007 so far; 
(f) whether the modifications suggested by various stakeholders have since been incorporated therein; and  
(g) if so, the details thereof and the time by which the said Bill is likely to be introduced in the Parliament? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI OSCAR FERNANDES) 

(a) to (g): The statement is laid on the Table of the House. 

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) TO (g) OF THE LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 21 FOR 13.08.2007 REGARDING UNORGANISED WORKERS SOCIAL SECURITY BILL, 2007. 

(a): Yes, Sir. 

(b): In its report, the National Commission for Enterprises in the Unorganised Sector (NCEUS) has recommended for national minimum social security benefits for unorganised sector workers which, inter-alia, include life and disability cover, health insurance, old age protection and any other scheme as deemed necessary. 

(c): Yes, Sir. 

(d) to (g): The proposals and the suggestions received thereon were examined. The Unorganised Sector Workers Social Security Bill is under active consideration and Government intends to introduce the Bill during the current session of Parliament. 

5.Ministry of Mines        

RECONSIDERATION OF NEW NATIONAL MINERAL POLICY ( LS/ 14 August 2007)
502. SHRI ANANDRAO VITHOBA ADSUL
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:- 
(a) whether some State Governments have requested the Union Government to reconsider the draft of the new national mineral policy and evolve consensus of all States on it before its consideration by the Union Cabinet.  
(b) if so, the details thereof; and 
(c) the action taken by the Government in this regard? 
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MINES (DR. T. SUBBARAMMI REDDY) 

(a) to (c): Some of the Chief Ministers had given a representation to Prime Minister on 31.12.2006. Their points of view were duly discussed in several meetings of their State officials and the suggestions were given due consideration. Recently the same points were again raised by some of the Chief Ministers and these were again discussed in a meeting with Central Government on 6.8.2007. The National Mineral Policy is under consideration of the Central Government. 

MINING ZONES IN ANDHRA PRADESH ( RS/ 20 AUGUST 2007)

817. SHRI C. RAMACHANDRAIH
Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:- 

(a) whether Andhra Pradesh Government has identified 12 exclusive mining zones near Hyderabad; 

(b) if so, whether the above declaration and the subsequent extraction of minerals would lead to excessive exploitation of Mineral resources; ( 

(c) whether the States, which are on a fast track to export minerals are advised to maintain desired restraint; 

(d) if so, the details thereof; and 

(e) if not, the reasons therefor? 
ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MINES 

( Dr. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY) 

(a) : As per the information received from State Government of Andhra Pradesh, 15 areas have been identified around Hyderabad city on the outskirts of Ranga Reddy district for declaration as mining zones. 

(b): Mining activity in the country is required to be done in a systematic and scientific manner as per mining, environmental and safety legislations, and mining of minerals depends on various parameters including reserves and market demand. 

(c) to (e): Export of minerals is guided by the Export-Import (EXIM) Policy notified by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry from time to time.

           
6.Ministry of Power

SASAN ULTRA MEGA POWER PROJECT IN MP  ( LS/ 10 August 2007)

30. SHRI ANANDRAO VITHOBA ADSUL, RAVI PRAKASH VERMA, SHIVAJI ADHALRAO PATIL

Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:- 

(a) whether any meeting of Empowered Group of Ministers (EGOM) was held recently to discuss the issue related to Sasan Ultra Mega Power Project; 
(b) if so, the details thereof along with the main points discussed therein; 
(c) the decision taken by the EGOM thereon; 
(d) whether the bidder Lanco has violated the bidding norms; and 
(e) if so, the action taken by the Government in this regard? 
ANSWER 

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER ( SHRI SUSHILKUMAR SHINDE ) 

(a) to (e) : Yes, Sir. The Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) set up for facilitating expeditious decisions in all cases concerning Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPPs) examined the matter relating to the award of the pit head 4000 MW Sasan Ultra Mega Power Project in Madhya Pradesh. 

Keeping in view the overall public interest and after examination of various clauses of the bid documents, the EGoM inter-alia decided that the procurer should cancel the LOI issued to the Globeleq-Lanco consortium, as the consortium was not qualified even at the RFQ stage and its response to the RFQ was void ab-initio. It also decided that the procurer should return the Bid Bond of the consortium after deducting a sum of Rs.1 crore, and hold negotiations with the remaining bidders and seek their final bid(s) for levelised tariff. 

Accordingly, Sasan Power Limited (SPL) received revised offers from the remaining valid bidders, of which the bid of M/s. Reliance Power Limited, offering a levellised tariff of Rs.1.19616 per kilo watt hour was the lowest. SPL issued the Letter of Intent to M/s. Reliance Power Limited on 1st August, 2007, and has thereafter carried out the necessary documentation on 7th August, 2007 for the transfer to them of the Special Purpose Vehicle, Sasan Power Limited which had been set up for the Sasan UMPP. 

              
POWER FROM NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES ( LS/ 10 August 2007)
40. Shri K.C.PALLANI SHAMY
Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:-  

(a) the details of power-shortage in the country as on date State-wise; 
(b) whether India has sought assistance from neighbouring countries to meet the shortfall and to improve the power situation; and 
(c) if so, the details thereof? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF POWER ( SHRI SUSHILKUMAR SHINDE ) 

(a) : The state-wise details of power shortage in the country during July, 2007 and April – July, 2007 are annexed. 

(b) & (c) : India has agreements of co-operation with Bhutan and Nepal for exchange of power. The cooperation between India and Bhutan in the field of hydropower has been helpful in bridging the gap between demand and supply of electricity in the country. The bulk of power generated from hydroelectric projects at Tala (1020 MW), Chukha (336 MW) and Kurichhu (60 MW) in Bhutan, which have been implemented with technical and financial assistance of India, is exported to India. 

The inter-border exchange of power between India and Nepal has also been taking place for mutual assistance in supplying power to border areas of the two countries under a bilateral arrangement with Nepal being net importer of power. 

There is no agreement for exchange of power with any other country other than Bhutan and Nepal. However, discussions have been held with the South Asian countries in the fora of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) covering many areas of cooperation, including power

USE OF FLY ASH GENERATED BY THERMAL STATIONS ( RS/ 20 August 2007)
856. SHRI M.V. MYSURA REDDY 

Will the Minister of POWER be pleased to state:- 

(a) whether it is a fact that the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) thermal stations are generating nearly 34 MTA of fly ash per annum; 

(b) whether it is also a fact that the fly ash comprises of un-burnt carbon, cenospheres, alumino-silicate aggregates, magnetite and/or hematite; 

(c) whether all these constituents, if properly separated and recovered have commercial value and could give huge profits to NTPC which may help it to reduce the cost of power; and 

(d) if so, whether Government propose to start processing units by NTPC or by private operators? 
ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF POWER 

( SHRI SUSHILKUMAR SHINDE ) 

(a) : NTPC`s thermal stations are generating nearly 39 million tones of fly ash per annum. 

(b) : Fly ash comprises of very low quantities of un-burnt carbon, cenospheres, quartz, mullite, magnetite and/or hematite. 

(c) & (d) : Presently, no techno-economically viable methods are available to separate these constituents from fly ash.      

7.Ministry of Water Resources 
 
MODERNIZATION OF NAGARJUNA SAGAR DAM ( LS/ 13 AUGUST 2007)
249.SHRI RAJAGOPAL LAGADAPATI 

Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- 

(a) whether the World Bank has agreed to provide financial assistance for modernization of Nagarjuna Sagar Dam; 
(b) if so, the details thereof; 
(c) the time by which the said modernization programme is likely to be commenced; and 
(d) the additional irrigation capacity likely to be created on the completion of project? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES (SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN YADAV) 

(a) to (d) On the recommendation of Ministry of Water Resources, a project proposal namely `Andhra Pradesh Water Sector Improvement Project (APWSIP)` for assistance of Rs.2250 crores has been posed to the World Bank by Department of Economic Affairs. Nagarjuna Sagar Project is one of the components of the APWSIP. 

The project envisages irrigation of 4.03 lakh acres Gap Command Area. 

PANCHESHWAR PROJECT  ( RS/21 Aug 2007)
1042. SHRI HARISH RAWAT 
Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- 

(a) whether the work of joint survey of Pancheshwar Project has been completed; 
(b) if so, whether any time-frame has been fixed to start this project; and 
(c) if not, the details thereof? 
ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES 

(SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN YADAV) 

(a) to (c) India and Nepal have agreed, under the 1996 Mahakali Treaty, to jointly develop the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (5600 MW) on the Mahakali River where it forms the broder between the two countries. Following the understanding reached between the two countries, it was agreed during 11th meeting of Joint Group of Experts (JGE) held in March, 1999 to carry out necessary field investigations for main dam and re-regulating scheme jointly by India and Nepal. Accordingly, a Joint Project Office-Pancheshwar Investigations was set up at Kathmandu in December, 1999 along with a field Division at Tanakpur in India and the same was closed on 31.7.2002 after completion of joint survey and investigations except for investigation for an alternate site of re-regulating structure at Rupaligad (1.7 km downstream of earlier location). To finalize the Detailed Project Report (DPR), there are certain outstanding issues like location re-regulating structure i.e. Purnagiri or Rupaligad, water availability downstream of Pancheshwar, installation and unit size and assessment of power benefits, apportionment of cost between power and irrigation and between India and Nepal which are yet to be resolved for finalization of Joint DPR.

These issues were discussed in the 20th meeting of the Joint Group of Experts (JGE) of India and Nepal held in October 2004 at New Delhi wherein it was decided to form a Joint Technical Group to look into all such issues. The Group held its first meeting from 20-21 December 2004 at Kathmandu. Thereafter, no further meetings have been held.

8.Ministry of Environment and Forests

GUIDELINES FOR DISPOSAL OF E WASTE (RS/ 16 AUG 2007)
479. SHRI B.J. PANDA 

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

(a) whether it is a fact that around 150,000 tonnes of electronic waste is generated in India, while the guidelines for disposal of this waste are yet to be finalized; 

(b) whether Delhi, Mumbai and other big cities are burdened with e-waste that is too dangerous to be handled in congested areas and this menace is growing consistently; and 

(c) if so, the action plan of Government to address this issue? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS 

(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) 

(a) to (c) Based on a survey conducted under the guidance of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), it has been estimated that about 1,46,000 tonnes of waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is generated annually in the country. Delhi, Mumbai and other big cities have been identified as major e-waste generating areas in the country. In order to address the problem of e-waste, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) got a study on the assessment of electrical and electronic waste generation conducted. They have also undertaken the task of preparation of “Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Management of E-Waste” for the State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Committee in Union Territories. In this connection, Ministry of Environment & Forests in the Government of India has constituted a Task comprising of representatives of the concerned Ministries and experts for finalization of these guidelines. 

The Ministry of Environment and Forests have notified the Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules 1989 as amended in 2000 and 2003 which regulate the generation, collection, storage, treatment, disposal as well as export and import of hazardous wastes. The provisions under the Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules 1989 as amended in 2000 and 2003 include e-waste. The processes generating hazardous wastes are listed in Schedule 1 of these rules. The residues and wastes generated from the operations in electronic industry are already considered as hazardous wastes and are included at S. No. 31 of Schedule 1 of these rules. Further, the import and export of e-waste is also regulated under Schedule 3 of these rules. As per the provisions of these rules, the import of e-waste is regulated under Schedule 3 of these rules wherein Electrical and Electronic Assemblies are covered under category A 1180 in the list A and B 1110 in list B of the Schedule 3. The import of such waste is permitted only for direct reuse and not for recycling or final disposal.

GLOBAL PHASING OUT OF MERCURY ( RS/ 16 August 2007)
482. SHRIMATI PREMA CARIAPPA

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

(a) whether Gopvernment are aware of the U.N. Environment Programme (UNEP) pushing for a global phase out of mercury; 

(b) the reasons for Government promoting the use of CFLs, which contain mercury and is a serious health hezard and cause catastrophe to the environment; 

(c) whether Government have no functioning recycling scheme and on account of this, most of the cercury would be released in the air; 

(d) whether CFLs not only reduce bills, they also keep the overall power demand low; and 

(e) the steps being taken to check the flow, dumping and flooding of Indian market with cheap and substandard quality of Chinese CFLs? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS 

(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) 

(a) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Governing council in its 24th Session held in Nairobi in February, 2007 adopted the decision UNEP/GC/24/3 on “Chemicals” and concluded that further long term international action is required to reduce risks to hu8man health and environment and that, for this reason, the options of enhanced voluntary measures and new or existing international legal instruments will be reviewed and assessed in order to make progress in addressing this issue. The Governing Council decided to establish an Adhoc Joint Working Group of governments, regional economic integration organizations and stakeholder representatives and requested the Executive Director to present a report on progress in the implementation of the present decision to the Governing Council at its twenty-fifth session. 

(b) As per the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Ministry of Power, Compact fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) have potential to save energy and thereby reduce green house gas emissions that contribute to global climate change, Mercury is essential component of CFLs. The amount of mercury in them ranges from 1.3 milligram <5 milligram which does not pose health hazard to humans. NO mercury is released when the bulbs are intact or in use. Unregulated disposal of CFLs can create environmental impacts. 

(c) To (e) As per Buyreau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power, CFLs use upto 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs, reduce electricity bills of consumers and over all power demand. Buy back and safe disposal of fused CFLs is part of a proposed scheme of the BEE entitled “Bachat Lamp Yojana” (BLY) to promote CFLs. 

The Ministry of Environment & Forests has constituted a Task force to deal with issues relating to management of mercury in CFLs. 

Under Rule 5 of the Customs Tariff (Identification, Assessment and Collection of Anti-Dumping Duty on Dumped Articles and for Determination of Injury) Rule, 1995, anti-dumping investigations are initiated by Designated Authority after examining the accuracy and adequacy of the evidence provided in the petition and after satisfying that there is sufficient evidence regarding dumping, injury and a casual lik between dumped imports and alleged injury to justify the initiation. As regards the anti-dumping investigation relating to imports of CFLs from China PR, an investigation had been initiated and definitive duty imposed which expired in December, 2006. Rule 5 of the anti-Dumping Rules allows the domestic industry to file a petition for fresh anti-dumping duty, if and when the need arises.

PROVISIONS UNDER EIA NOTIFICATION ( RS/ 16 August 2007)
493. SHRI MAHENDRA MOHAN

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 is causing widespread concern across the country due to flawed provisions; 
(b) whether Government had taken consideration of the views of the cross section of society on its operationalization; 
(c) if not, the reasons therefor; 
(d) whether this notification provides hearings to only project affected people and excludes wider civil society participants particularly experts and environmentalists groups; and 
(e) if so, the reasons therefor? 
ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS 

(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) 

(a) No, Sir. However, certain clarifications on various provisions of the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 have been received in the Ministry and have been clarified from time to time. 
(b) Before issue of Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, a draft notification inviting objections/comments from all the affected individuals/organizations was issued. Besides, detailed consultations with all the concerned stakeholders including Central and State Governments, Non-Governmental Organizations, Industry Associations were also held. 
(c) Does not arise. 
(d) No, Sir. The Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 provides for Public Consultation by which concerns of local affected persons and others who have plausible stake in the environmental impacts of the project or activity are ascertained. 
(e) Does not arise.

9.Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

WORLD BANK AIDED HEALTH PROJECTS ( RS/ 17 August 2007)

657. SHRIMATI SHOBHANA BHARTIA & SHRIMATI SUPRIYA SULE

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

(a) whether Government have signed loan agreements worth $792 million (about Rs. 3,564 crores) with the World Bank for three health sector projects; 

(b) if so, whether the World Bank would extend $ 360 million to the Reproductive and Child Health Project and 170 million to the second National Tuberculosis Control Programme; 

(c) if so, what are the other main details of the project that would be undertaken by the World Bank loan; and 

(d) by when these schemes are likely to be implemented? 
ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE 

(SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) 

(a) to (d) : The Govt. of India have signed three credit agreements with the World Bank on 16.10.2006 for providing financial assistance of US $ 671.83 million for the following health sector projects. 

(i) The Reproductive and Child Health Project (RCH-II) for US $ 360 million.

(ii) Second National  Tuberculosis Control Project (TB-II) for US $ 170 million and 

(iii)  Karnataka Health System Development and Reform Project for US$ 141.83 million.

The Reproductive and Child Health Project Phase-II aims to   reduce Total Fertility Rate (TFR), Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) and Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in the country. The TB-II project will implement the existing DOTS strategy and will additionally focus on the scaling up of the State-level intermediate referral laboratories (IRL), Implementation of DOTS- Plus scheme for multi drug resistant TB and Scaling up of the involvement of NGOs and Private and Corporate sector.  The objective of the Karnataka Health System Development and Reform Project is to increase utilization of essential curative and public health services particularly in underserved areas and among vulnerable groups.

These Projects are under implementation. The RCH-II project is scheduled to close in the year 2010 while the TB-II and Karnataka Health System Projects will close in the year 2011.

AIDS BILL ( RS/ 17 August 2007)

668. SHRIMATI N.P. DURGA
Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- 

(a) the salient features of the proposed AIDS Bill; 

(b) whether it is going to be introduced in the current session of the Parliament; 

(c) whether Government are going to make it mandatory for all young people to undergo AIDS test before they are married as has been proposed by the State of Andhra Pradesh; and 

(d) if so, the details thereof? 
ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE 

(SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) 

(a) The salient features of the HIV/AIDS Bill are given in the Annexure A. 

(b) No, Sir. It is still being vetted by the Law Ministry. 

(c) No, Sir, as there is no evidence of its utility as a public health measure. 

(d) Does not arise. 

ANNEXURE A 

The Salient features of the HIV/AIDS Bill 2007 

The main objectives of the legislation are to prevent and control the spread of HIV/AIDS and protect the rights of those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. The main chapters of the law include: 

i. Prohibition of discrimination related to HIV/AIDS within the public and private spheres. This chapter addresses discrimination in employment, education, healthcare, travel, residence, accommodation, insurance etc. It also addresses the issue of hate and discriminatory speech in the HIV context. 

ii. Requirement of informed consent for HIV-related testing, HIV-related treatment and HIV-related research. This chapter statutorises existing standards of informed consent and the exceptions to it. 

iii. Guarantee of confidentiality of HIV-related information (including HIV+ status) and exceptions to it. 

iv. The right to access treatment related to HIV/AIDS as part of the right to health recognized under the Indian Constitution and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights to which India is a signatory. The chapter provides for access to comprehensive HIV-related treatment including diagnostics, ARVs, nutritional supplements etc. 

v. The right to a safe working environment for health care workers and other persons whose occupation may put them at risk of exposure to HIV. 

vi. Protection of strategies for risk reduction, which are otherwise subject to criminal sanction under various laws that have severely impeded risk reduction work with sex workers, injecting drug users and men who have sex with men in the past. 

vii. Norms for Information, Education and Communication programmes and materials. 

viii. The creation of innovative implementation mechanisms including institutional grievance redressal machinery, Health Ombudspersons and HIV/AIDS Authorities. This will be supported by Special Procedures to be followed in courts, including suppression of identity, speedy trials and proceedings etc. 

ix. Special provisions for those who are disproportionately affected by the epidemic, particularly women, children and young persons and persons in the care and custody of the State who due to social, economic, legal and other factors find themselves more vulnerable to HIV. 

 

WASTE MANAGEMENT PROJECT IN MADHYA PRADESH (RS/ 17 AUG 2007)
691. SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH 

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

(a) whether the Government of Madhya Pradesh has sent any proposal to the Central Government for financial assistance for waste management pilot project for Government hospitals in Sagar, Khandwa and Chhindwara districts; 

(b) if so, the present position of this proposal; 

(c) whether Government have approved the said financial assistance; and 

(d) if not, by when the financial assistance is likely to be approved? 
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE 

(SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) 

(a) to (d) The scheme for providing financial assistance for creating infrastructure in Government hospitals for disposing of Bio-medical waste has since been dropped and no proposal for providing financial assistance to any state for this purpose is under consideration.