---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Press Information Bureau Ministry of I&B <pib.kolkata@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, Mar 4, 2010 at 5:13 PM
Subject: Releases.........pt2
To: aaj.jela1@gmail.com, arthik_lipi@rediffmail.com, azadhind@cal2.vsnl.net.in, daily_durantabarta@indiatimes.com, debashis61@gmail.com, editor@theeconomicstudies.com, ianskol@gmail.com, kalantarpatrika@rediffmail.com, nabendu.guha@etv.co.in, news@echoofindia.com, pibgangtok@gmail.com, prasenjitbaksi@indiatvnews.com, rajasarkar66@rediffmail.com, shabina.akhtar@gmail.com, shankarsingh_1971@yahoo.co.in, suva121@rediffmail.com, thephoenixash@yahoo.co.in, thewinning@gmail.com, aajkaal <aajkaaladvt022@yahoo.com>, Akhbar-E Mashriq <amashriq@cal2.vsnl.net.in>, Ananda Bazar Patrika <anandabazar@abpmail.com>, ananda samachar <anandasamachar@yahoo.com>, asarkar <asarkar@hindustantimes.com>, Asian Age <asianage@cal.vsnl.net.in>, avijit2006in <avijit2006in@gmail.com>, bartaman <bartaman@satyam.net.in>, bharat mitra <bharatmitra1@yahoo.com>, bloom <bloomsnews@gmail.com>, business standard <edical@business-standard.com>, "chhapte@cal2.vsnl.net.in" <chhapte@cal2.vsnl.net.in>, dailynaviparbhat <dailynaviparbhat@vsnl.net>, Dainik Vishwamitra <vismitra@cal2.vsnl.net.in>, "durbar.kalam2" <amar.naskar@durbarkalam.com>, Hind azad <azadhind2001@hotmail.com>, "jamshedpur@jagran.com" <jamshedpur@jagran.com>, PIB Kolkata <pibcalcutta3@yahoo.com>, pibcalcutta1 <pibcalcutta1@yahoo.com>, pratidin <pratidin@cal2.vsnl.net.in>, Press Trust of India <ptical@sify.com>, "ptikolkata@vsnl.net" <ptikolkata@vsnl.net>, rajasthan patrika <kolkata@rajasthanpatrika.com>, saltlake samvad <viswabandhuu@yahoo.co.in>, sanmarg <sanmarg@satyam.net.in>, sk6149 <sk6149@dataone.in>, sunchari <sunchari@sify.com>, "sunchari@sify.com Janpath" <janpath_samachar@sancharnet.in>, "suprabhat@cal.vsnl.net.in" <suprabhat@cal.vsnl.net.in>, "sushmita.assam" <sushmita.assam@gmail.com>, The Statesman <thestatesman@vsnl.com>, The Telegraph <thetelegraph@abpmail.com>, "toical@indiatimes.com" <toical@indiatimes.com>, United News of India <unical@uniindia.com>, uttarbanga sambad <uttarbanga@hotmail.com>, yugsambadarpan <yug_sambad@rediffmail.com>
Cc: anucal@vsnl.net, assign_bangla@starnews.co.in, hirak@abpmail.com, marcus@thehindu.co.in, palashbiswaskl@gmail.com, rajatsm@rediffmail.com, ranzunzardaily@yahoo.co.in, shabina.akhtar@abp.in, sushkanu1@yahoo.com, All India Radio <rnucal@vsnl.net>, amitabh bhattasali <amitabha.bhattasali@gmail.com>, ashis <ashis@hindustantimes.com>, bbcworld <sunita.nahar@bbc.co.uk>, bengalexpress <bengalexpress1@gmail.com>, "bww@cal3.vsnl.net.in" <bww@cal3.vsnl.net.in>, dgpraja <dgpraja@yahoo.co.in>, dgpraja1 <dgpraja@gmail.com>, dharitri <dharitripress@hotmail.com>, Doordarshan kolkata <ddk_kolkata@onlysmart.com>, "durbar.kalam1" <durbarkalam@yahoo.co.in>, "edit-ss@nic.in" <edit-ss@nic.in>, goswami_sushmita <goswami_sushmita@rediffmail.com>, himalayan <himalayantimes@gmail.com>, ibns2008 <ibns2008@gmail.com>, kinsuk pallab biswas <biswas.kinsukpallab@rediffmail.com>, kinsuk pallab biswas <biwas_kinsukpallab@hotmail.com>, "mail@ganashakti.co.in" <mail@ganashakti.co.in>, mouparna <mouparna@gmail.com>, nahar sunita <naharsunita@yahoo.co.uk>, parixit <parixit_kolkata@rediffmail.com>, paul paul41 <ppaul41@rediffmail.com>, pawan Kumar Jha <pawan_jha3@yahoo.com>, "pkcal@prabhatkhabar.com" <pkcal@prabhatkhabar.com>, ppaul <ppaul@deccanherald.co.in>, prabashi barta <prabashi_barta@yahoo.co.in>, "pranabkumardas_2004@yahoo.com" <pranabkumardas_2004@yahoo.com>, "rainbow@cal.vsnl.net.in" <rainbow@cal.vsnl.net.in>, rajeev dabral <rajeevdabral@yahoo.com>, Ravi Shankar Singh <raviepatrika@gmail.com>, sanat <sanatm@vsnl.com>, sanjib singh <expresspoorva@yahoo.co.in>, sankar ray <sankarray@hotmail.com>, santanu saraswati <santanusaraswati@gmail.com>, saptarshi basu <khabarkolkata@sify.com>, saraswati santanu <santanu_saraswati@hotmail.com>, Sreya <sreyaster@gmail.com>, subhajitdasbhaumik <subhajitdasbhaumik@gmail.com>, sujoi dhar <sujoi@vsnl.com>, sujoy dhar <sujoydhar@gmail.com>, sumit <sumit.moitra@newswire18.com>, Suvendu Chatterjee <office@drik.net>, Suvendu Chatterjee <suvendu@in.drik.net>, Suvendu Chatterjee <suvendudrik@gmail.com>
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs RAJYA SABHA
Legal support to migrants
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The emigrant workers holding Emigration Clearance Required (ECR)
passports and going overseas for employment are governed by the
Emigration Act, 1983. Under the Act, emigration clearance for
employment overseas is given only after verification of the demand
letter, power of attorney and the terms and conditions of the work
contract. The work contract of the women workers are mandatorily
required to be attested by the Indian Mission concerned. The emigrant
worker seeking emigration clearance from the Office of Protector of
Emigrants has to subscribe mandatorily under the Pravasi Bhartiya Bima
Yojana (PBBY), before departure for overseas employment abroad. The
PBBY provides the insured emigrant a cover for a minimum sum of 30,000
rupees in connection relating to his / her employment, provided the
necessity of filing such case is certified by the appropriate Ministry
of that country. The actual expenses incurred will be certified by the
concerned Indian Mission / Post. Besides the Indian Missions abroad
facilitate assistance to the emigrant workers in distress including
legal assistance in the foreign Country.
The Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) established in 17 ECR
countries and Maldives provides for meeting contingency expenditure
incurred by the Missions for carrying out various on-site welfare
activities for overseas Indian citizens in distress. These activities
include providing initial legal assistance to the overseas Indians in
deserving cases.
This information was given by the Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs,
Shri Vayalar Ravi in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
pkm/dk/kol/16:42 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs RAJYA SABHA
Immigration norms changed by UK
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Government of U.K has amended their immigration laws and launched
a Point- Based System (PBS) in 2008 to streamline the entry into U.K
of non EU workers. Under the new PBS, there is a five Tier framework,
through which a non-EU national could gain entry into UK for work,
study or training. The five tiers envisage different conditions,
entitlements and entry clearance checks/procedures. On 10 February
2010, following a review of its operation, the UK Home Secretary
announced a number of changes to the criteria of tier four of the PBS
meant for students. These require a good standard of English which is
required to be demonstrated in order to be permitted to study any
course below degree level; restricting the lowest-level courses (A
levels and equivalent) to only the most trusted institutions; halving
the amount of time available for work for a student studying below
first degree level or on a foundation degree course, to just 10 hours
during term time; a ban on bringing in dependants for anyone studying
a course for less than six months; and a ban on dependants of anyone
studying a course lower than foundation or undergraduate degree level
from working could face removal from the UK if found doing so. The
measures are intended only for students who come to UK to study
courses below degree level. There are no changes for students who come
to UK to study a foundation degree, courses at degree level or those
coming to UK as a child- student.
This information was given by the Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs,
Shri Vayalar Ravi in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
pkm/dk/kol/16:42 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs RAJYA SABHA
Voting rights for NRIs
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, 2006 was introduced
in the Rajya Sabha on the 27th February, 2006. The Bill seeks to amend
section 20 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950 (43 of 1950)
to enable Indian citizens who are absent from their place of ordinary
residence in India owing to their employment, education or otherwise
outside the country, to get their names registered in the electoral
rolls of the constituency of their place of ordinary residence in
India to be able to cast their votes in the Parliamentary/State
elections, in case they happen to be in their constituency at the time
of polls. The Bill was referred to the Department Related
Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, and
Law & Justice on the 26th March, 2006 for examination and report. The
Committee presented its 16th report on the subject to the Rajya
Sabha/laid it in the Lok Sabha on the 4th August, 2006. In its report,
the Committee, while agreeing with the letter and spirit of the
proposed bill for amendment, had recommended the bringing of a
comprehensive bill on the subject, containing all the details
regarding the manner of enrolment of the Non-Resident Indians, the
mode of voting and the conditionalities for contesting elections. The
Legislative Department in the Ministry of Law and Justice is working
on a draft bill, which will be presented to Parliament after approval
by the Cabinet.
This information was given by the Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs,
Shri Vayalar Ravi in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
pkm/dk/kol/16:43 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation RAJYA SABHA
Urban Housing Policy
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Kumari Selja has
said that the Union Government has formulated the first urban area
focused 'National Urban Housing & Habitat Policy, 2007 (NUHHP: 2007)'
to set in motion a process in providing 'Affordable Housing for All'
particularly the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Low Income
Group (LIG). This policy intends to promote sustainable development of
habitat in the country with a view to ensuring equitable supply of
land, shelter and services at affordable prices to all sections of
society. The policy seeks promoting various types of public-private
partnerships – of the government sector with the private sector, the
cooperative sector, the financial services sector, the state
parastatals, urban local bodies, etc. – for realizing the goal of
affordable housing for all. The policy has been widely circulated to
States/Union Territories. However, 'Land' and 'Colonisation' being
State subjects, it is primarily the responsibility of State
Governments to follow up on the initiatives propounded in the Policy.
In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today she said, the Working
Group on Housing for the Tenth Plan had estimated that around 90 per
cent of housing shortage pertained to the weaker sections. The Working
Group had also estimated the urban housing shortage at the beginning
of Tenth Plan at 8.89 million units.
The Minister said, a Technical Group constituted by the Ministry in
2006 to assess the urban housing shortage has estimated that
accounting for factors of congestion and obsolescence at the end of
the 10th Five Year Plan (2007-08), the total housing shortage in the
country was 24.71 million.
'Land' and 'colonisation' being state subjects, the onus of providing
adequate and affordable housing is on states. However, the Ministry of
Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation of the Union Government is
propagating and promoting the NUHHP: 2007, as also implementing
schemes for providing affordable housing to urban poor, she added.
ad/db/dk/kol/16:43 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers LOK SABHA
Subsidy on Fertilizers
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
In the context of the Nation's food security, the declining response
of agricultural productivity to increased fertilizer usage in the
country and to ensure the balanced application of fertilizers, the
Government has introduced Nutrient Based Subsidy Policy (NBS) for
decontrolled P&K fertilizers, w.e.f. 1.4.2010. Under NBS, subsidy will
be based on the nutrients i.e. Nitrogen (N), Phosphate (P), Potash (K)
and Sulphur (S) contained in the decontrolled P&K fertilizers already
covered under the subsidy scheme, namely Di Ammonium Phosphate (DAP),
Mono Ammonium Phosphate (MAP), Triple super Phosphate (TSP), Muriate
of Potash (MOP), 12 grades of Complex Fertilizers, Single Super
Phosphate (SSP) and indigenous ammonium Sulphate (AS) produced by FACT
and GSFC. The per nutrient subsidy shall be decided annually by
Department of Fertilizers based on the recommendations of the Inter
Ministerial Committee (IMC) constituted under the Chairmanship of
Secretary (Fertilizers) and representatives of Department of
Agriculture & Cooperation, Department of Expenditure, Planning
commission and Department of Agricultural Research and Education. Any
variant of the fertilizers mentioned above with secondary and
micronutrients (except 'S') in such fertilizers will attract a
separate per tonne subsidy to encourage their application along with
primary nutrients. The Nutrient Based Subsidy, so decided by the
Government, will be converted into subsidy per tonne for each
subsidized fertilizer. The distribution and movement of fertilizers
along with import of finished fertilizers will be monitored through
the 'Fertilizer Monitoring System'. 20% of the above said decontrolled
fertilizers produced/imported in India will be in the movement control
under the Essential Commodities Act 1955 (ECA) to regulate the
movement of these fertilizers to bridge the supplies in underserved
areas. Freight subsidy on decontrolled fertilizers will be restricted
to the rail freight. The road freight is assumed to be part of the
fixed subsidy and the retail prices. The import of all the
decontrolled subsidized fertilizers including complex fertilizers will
be placed under Open General License. The market price of the
subsidized decontrolled fertilizers will be determined based on the
demand supply forces. However, the Government has decided that under
the Nutrient Based Subsidy for 2010-11, subsidy for the nutrients 'N',
'P', 'K' & 'S' will be fixed in such a manner that the farm gate
prices of non-urea fertilizers are as far as possible, near the
current prices so that the farmers are not adversely affected. The
customized fertilizers and the fertilizer mixture industry will be
able to receive the subsidized fertilizers from the
manufacturers/importers after its receipt in the districts as inputs
for manufacturing customized fertilizers/fertilizer mixture. A
separate additional subsidy will be provided to the indigenous
manufacturers producing complex fertilizers using Naphtha based
captive ammonia to compensate for the higher cost of production for a
period of two years. Such units will have to convert their plants from
Naphtha based to gas based plants. The payment of subsidy to the
manufacturers/importers of DAP/MOP/Complex fertilizers/MAP/TSP/AS
shall be based on the receipt of fertilizers in the districts of the
States. The payment of subsidy to the manufacturer/marketer of SSP
shall be based on the sale of SSP in the States.
The Government has decided to increase the MRP of urea by 10% from the
current Rs. 4830/MT to Rs. 5310/MT w.e.f. 1.4.2010. However, urea will
remain under partial movement and distribution control of Government.
Import of urea will remain canalized during the first phase. The
import of urea is made to bridge the gap between the requirement and
the indigenous production. The fertilizer subsidy bill depends upon
the cost of urea, requirement of fertilizer and the MRP of the same.
By virtue of increase in MRP of Urea w.e.f. 1st April 2010, the
quantum of subsidy is not expected to increase.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Chemicals and
Fertilisers Shri Srikant Kumar Jena in a written reply in the Lok
Sabha today.
dnm/pkm/sb/dk/kol/16:43 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers LOK SABHA
Compensation to Bhopal Gas Victims
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
As on 31.1.2010 compensation amounting to Rs. 1549.08 crores has been
disbursed to 5,73,896 claimants of 56 wards in Bhopal city, after due
adjudication. Based on orders of the Supreme Court, additional
pro-rata compensation of over Rs. 1509.72 crore has been disbursed to
5,62,593 gas victims, as on 31.1.2010. The number of pending cases of
absentee claimants for pro-rata compensation as on 31.1.2010 is
11,781. The Welfare Commissioner has moved the Supreme Court to permit
it to treat these long pending cases of absentee claimants as closed.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Chemicals and
Fertilisers Shri Srikant Kumar Jena in a written reply in the Lok
Sabha today.
dnm/pkm/sb/dk/kol/16:44 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers LOK SABHA
Increase in Price of Insulin
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has not given
permission to increase the price of Insulin recently by 10 per cent.
NPPA has revised the prices of imported insulin formulation recently
on 21.1.2010 based on applications received from different importers.
The price change ranged from (-) 2.37% to 0 percent, except in one
case where the price was increased by 8.91% due to increase in
exchange rate. In addition, the price of indigenous insulin
formulation manufactured by M/s Torrent was increased by 6.6% from Rs.
152.50 (without taxes), to Rs. 162.54 (without taxes) per 10ml vial
based on Form III application filed by the company. The price earlier
fixed in May, 2006 was Rs. 152.50.
NPPA has not received any specific representation in this regard.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Chemicals and
Fertilisers Shri Srikant Kumar Jena in a written reply in the Lok
Sabha today.
dnm/pkm/sb/dk/kol/16:44 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Water Resources RAJYA SABHA
Sindhu Basin
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Kutch region of Gujarat is not considered to form a part of the Indus
Basin as per the present available basin maps or the Irrigation
Commission Report of 1972. The Government has received a
representation from the State of Gujarat regarding allocation of the
Indus water of Gujarat.
Some water issues among the present beneficiary States of the rivers
Ravi, Beas and Sutlej are already before the Hon'ble Supreme Court for
decision. Any new suggestion for reallocation of these waters is
dependant on the decision on these issues and the present beneficiary
States agreeing to spare some water.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Water
Resources, Shri Vincent H. Pala in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha
today.
sk/rs/dk/kol/16:45 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Water Resources RAJYA SABHA
Project Report for Inter-Linking of Rivers
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Five links under the peninsular component of National Perspective Plan
(NPP) have been identified as priority links for building consensus
among concerned states for taking up their Detailed Project Reports
(DPRs). DPR of one priority link namely, Ken – Betwa has been
completed on 31.12.2008. The same was sent to the Governments of
Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh for comments. The Government of
Madhya Pradesh vide letter dated 19.8.2009 sent an alternative
proposal for consideration. The comments of the Government of Uttar
Pradesh have also been received vide their letter 23.10.2009.
Secretary (Water Resources) convened a meeting with the officials of
the Governments of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on 3.2.2010 in
this regard. As per the decision taken in the meeting, National Water
Development Agency has taken up the work of preparation of DPR for
Phase -1 of Ken-Betwa link project consisting of Daudhan Dam, link
canal, power houses along with their components, which is planned to
be completed by April, 2010. Further, NWDA has taken up the DPRs of
another two priority links namely, Par – Tapi – Narmada & Damanganga –
Pinjal after concurrence of the concerned states which are planned to
be completed by December, 2011. The concerned states have not given
concurrence to take up DPR of another priority link namely,
Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal.
As per guideline for implementation of National Projects, river
linking projects are eligible for 90% Central Assistance. However, the
above link projects have not reached the stage of implementation. The
implementation of the link proposals under NPP depends upon consensus
and cooperation of concerned states. Further, the projects including
interlinking projects are taken up for implementation after the
clearances of the central appraising agencies which include
Environmental clearance by Ministry of Environment & Forests (MOEF),
Techno-economic clearance by Technical Advisory Committee of Ministry
of Water Resources, clearance by Ministry of Tribal Affairs and
investment clearance by the Planning Commission.
Fifth Priority link namely, Godavari (Polavaram)- Krishna (Vijayawada)
is part of the Polavaram project of the Andhra Pradesh. Planning
Commission has given investment clearance to the Polavaram Project and
the Government of Andhra Pradesh has taken up the above project
including link component as per their proposals. Polavaram project is
getting central assistance under Accelerated Irrigation Benefits
Programme (AIBP) as per it's guidelines. However, the proposal for
central assistance to this project under AIBP during current year has
not been received from the State Government.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Water
Resources, Shri Vincent H. Pala in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha
today.
sk/rs/dk/kol/16:45 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Water Resources RAJYA SABHA
Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Ministry of Water Resources has not conducted any survey for
assessment of impact of climate change on water resources. However,
the Ministry of Water Resources has constituted a "Standing Committee
for Assessment of Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources" under
the Chairman, Central Water Commission (CWC) and studies related to
impact of climate change on water resources have been taken up jointly
by National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), CWC, Central Ground Water
Board and Brahmaputra Board with participation of Indian Institute of
Technology (IIT), Guwahati, IIT, Kanpur, IIT, Kharagpur and IIT,
Roorkee and National Institute of Technology (NIT), Patna and NIT,
Srinagar.
A "Preliminary Consolidated Report on Effect of Climate Change on
Water Resources" has been brought out by NIH and CWC. Research studies
undertaken by NIH inter-alia include: (i) Impact Assessment of Climate
Change on hydrological regime of a snow and glacier melt runoff
dominated Himalayan river (Spiti River); (ii) Hydrological sensitivity
of a large Himalayan basin to the climate change (Sutlej basin); and
(iii) Effect of climatic variation on runoff regime of river Chenab.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Water
Resources, Shri Vincent H. Pala in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha
today.
sk/rs/dk/kol/16:46 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Water Resources RAJYA SABHA
Setting up of Ground Water Authority
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Ministry of Water Resources had drafted a model bill to regulate
and control the development of ground water and circulated it to
States and UTs in 1970, re-circulated in 1992, 1996 and 2005 to enable
them to enact suitable legislation on the lines of the model bill.
Ground water legislation has been enacted by 11 States/ Union
Territories viz. Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep, Kerala,
Pondicherry, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh and
Dadra and Nagar Haveli. 18 other States/UTs are also in the process of
enactment of legislation. Government of Punjab is of the view that
recourse to ground water legislation needs to be given
reconsideration. Four States namely, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur,
Nagaland and Tripura have stated that in view of the ground water
development being quite low, it is not necessary to enact such a
legislation. The State Government of Sikkim is of the view that
requirement of drinking water supply for the people is being done by
exploiting the various streams/rivers. Therefore, enactment of
legislation to control the extraction of ground water in the state of
Sikkim is not felt necessary.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Water
Resources, Shri Vincent H. Pala in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha
today.
sk/rs/dk/kol/16:46 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Tourism RAJYA SABHA
Renovation/modernization of hotels
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism Shri Sultan Ahmed has
said that keeping in view the potential of Commonwealth Games, 2010,
ITDC planned renovation/refurbishment/modernization of its Delhi based
hotels i.e. Ashok, Samrat and Janpath. Ashok Hotel and Samrat Hotel
have been announced as "Family Hotels" for the Commonwealth Games and
Hotel Janpath has been announced for the accommodation of press and
media.
In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today he said, the renovation
work in Hotel Janpath is almost complete. The renovation work in Hotel
Ashok is going on and will be completed shortly. However, it is
mentioned that during October 2009, General Assembly of Commonwealth
Games was held at partly renovated Ashok Hotel.
ad/db/dk/kol/16:47 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Defence
Makan flags off Assam Rifles Car Rally
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
A car rally of Assam Rifles was flagged off by Union Minister of State
for home Affairs Shri Ajay Makan, here today as part of the
celebrations of 175 years of Assam Rifles. The Rally team comprises of
four officers and 23 men.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister lauded the role of Assam Rifles
and said that his Ministry is planning to further improve the
capabilities of this force by modernising it, raising additional
battalions and improve the infrastructure so that it can serve the
country even better. Shri Makan hoped that the Rally will spread the
message of peace and friendship. Congratulating the participants, the
Minister wished them all success.
The Rally known as "Blaze of Glory" is sponsored by Mahindra and
Mahindra Ltd and has seven SUVs and will traverse 3500 km from Delhi
to Imphal. The conduct of the Assam Rifles Car Rally across the nation
will be instrumental in spreading the message of peace and create an
awareness of 'The Assam Rifles' amongst the masses.
The Assam Rifles one of the premiers and the oldest Para Military
Force of India has a proud history of 175 years of distinguished
service to the country in the north-eastern region. The role of the
Assam Rifles in counter insurgency operations and creating an
atmosphere of peace and security is highly commendable. Hailed as
'Sentinels of the north-east' and also 'Friends of the Hill People'
the Assam Rifles has rendered invaluable service in guarding our north
east frontiers maintaining internal security and carrying out various
developmental activities.
samir /raj/dk/kol/16:47 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Urban Development Rajya Sabha
Funds disbursal under JNNURM
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) is for
reforms driven, fast track, planned development of identified cities.
States/Cities execute a Memorandum of Agreement(MoA) with Government
of India indicating their commitment to implement identified reforms.
The first installment for projects sanctioned under Urban
Infrastructure & Governance (UIG) of Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban
Renewal Mission(JNNURM) is released on signing of MoA. The balance
amount of assistance is released in three installments upon receipt of
Utilisation Certificates to the extent of 70% of the grants (Central &
State) and subject to achievement of milestones agreed for
implementation of mandatory and optional reforms at the State and
Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)/Parastatal level as envisaged in the MoA.
Accordingly the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee (CSMC)
before releasing the future installment i.e. the second and subsequent
installments of Additional Central Assistance (ACA) satisfies itself
as regards the physical and financial progress of the projects under
implementation and achievement of milestones as agreed upon by the
States and ULBs for implementation of reforms.
National Steering Group (NSG) under JNNURM in its meeting held on
24Nov,2009 decided inter-alia that in the case of sanctioned projects
the release of further installment of ACA is not to be withheld while
the Ministry constantly pursues with the States to complete the reform
commitment.
Reforms are required to be achieved by the States and ULBs during the
Mission period as per the timelines committed in the Memorandum of
Agreement (MoA) and reforms appraisal is a continuing process. The
States/Cities report their achievement of reforms in their Quarterly
Progress Reports (QPRs). The Reform Appraisal Agencies of this
Ministry periodically visit States/Cities and assess the achievement
of reforms vis-a-vis time line committed.
This information was given by Shri Saugata Roy, Minister of State in
reply to a question by Shri B.K.Hariprasad in Rajya Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:47 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Urban Development Rajya Sabha
Allocation for JNNURM, 2009-10
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
An amount of Rs.5960.13 crore as budget estimate (BE) has been
provided for Urban Infrastructure & Governance (UIG) component of
Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission(JNNURM) for the year
2009-10.
City Development Plans (CDPs) of all the 65 Mission Cities are now
approved of which Porbandar has been approved during 2009-10.
Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with all the Mission cities (except
Porbandar) have been signed of which MoA with Tirupati and Jamshedpur
have been signed in 2009-10. 64 Projects have been approved during the
year 2009-10 with an approved cost of Rs. 9504.82 crore with
Additional Central Assistance (ACA) commitment of Rs.4014.73 crore.
Rs.2982.80 crore has been released as ACA during the period.
This information was given by Shri Saugata Roy, Minister of State in
reply to a question by Shri T.K.Rangarajan in Rajya Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:48 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Urban Development Rajya Sabha
Regularization of Colonies
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) has
informed that no formal orders regularizing unauthorized colony has
been issued by it so far pursuant to the revised Guidelines of 2007
and Regulations issued by DDA in 2008. So far, Resident Welfare
Associations (RWAs) of 1639 unauthorized colonies have applied for
regularization.
Regularization of unauthorized colonies will inter-alia involve
scrutiny of layout plans, assessment of built up percentage as on
31.3.2002, identification of mixed land use streets, approval of
layout plans, fixation of boundaries, land use change, identification
of colonies not eligible for regularization etc. Scrutiny of documents
submitted by the RWAs has been initiated and Municipal Corporation of
Delhi (MCD) has conducted camps with RWAs. Guru Gobind Singh
Indraprastha University has superimposed the boundaries of layout
plans of satellite /aerial survey images in respect of large number of
colonies. Large number of maps have been provided by GNCTD to MCD. The
progress is being monitored by GNCTD. As per the revised Guidelines of
2007 and Regulations of 2008, the work relating to regularization
involving agencies concerned is to be undertaken, co-ordinated,
monitored and supervised by GNCTD.
This information was given by Shri Saugata Roy, Minister of State in
reply to a question by Shri Mohammed Adeeb in Rajya Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:48 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Agriculture
Government Committed to remunerative prices to farmers while ensuring
food grains to the poor at affordable rates: Shri Sharad Pawar
PUSA KRISHI VIGYAN MELA INAUGURATED
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The government is committed to remunerative prices to farmers while
ensuring food grains to the poor at affordable rates. This was stated
by the Minister of Agriculture, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public
Distribution, Shri Sharad Pawar, while inaugurating the IARI Pusa
Krishi Vigyan Mela 2010 here today. He said, India will not prosper
unless the economic condition of farmers improves and their purchasing
power goes up.
Referring to steps taken by the government to ensure remunerative
prices to farmers, the Minster said, the Minimum Support Price of
wheat and paddy has been enhanced substantially. Shri Pawar asserted
that the increase in MSP encouraged farmers to increase production of
food grains. He said, the wheat production is expected to surpass the
previous record in this rabi season. The Minister informed that the
sugarcane farmers got the highest price of their cane for the first
time in this crushing season and the enhanced price will further
encourage them to increase cane acreage, which will help to tide over
the crisis of sugar shortage.
The Minister pointed out that despite remunerative prices, the
government, in order to protect the vulnerable sections of society,
continues to provide food grains to them. He said, the Central Issue
Price of wheat and rice meant for AAY, BPL and APL ration card holders
has not been raised since 2002. However, he made it clear that it is
not possible for the government to make available food grains to the
affluent people at cheap rates at par with poorer sections. The
Minister said, the country which was once upon a time dependent on
foreign countries for its food security has not only become
self-reliant in food grains but also capable of assisting our
neighbors.
The theme of this year's three- day Mela is - Agricultural
Technologies for National Prosperity. Agricultural technologies and
new seeds, plants developed by Indian Council of Agricultural Research
(ICAR), Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), its associate
institutions, private companies and farmers have been showcased in
this agriculture science fare. Visit to IARI field is also arranged
for demonstration of crops here. The Mela helps the visitors to
acquaint themselves with the recent developments in the sphere of
agriculture.
mp:sb:cp: krishimela (4.3.2010)/dk/kol/16:48 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Railways LOK SABHA
Setting up of Freight Terminals and Logistic Parks
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Setting up of freight terminals by the Indian Railways is an ongoing
process depending on traffic requirements. Discussions have been held
with concerned State Governments for development of multi-modal
logistic parks along side the Dedicated Freight Corridor and at
strategic locations under Public Private Partnership mode.
Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) has
been mandated to develop multi-modal logistics parks at four
locations, namely Rewari, Ahemdabad, Kanpur and Navi Mumbai subject to
viability. Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), a public sector
undertaking under Ministry of Railways has plans to establish multi
modal logistics park at several locations depending on business
requirements.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri
K.H. Muniyappa in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
aks/hk/lk/tr/dk/kol/16:49 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Railways LOK SABHA
Introduction of Food Plazas at Railway Stations
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
At present, 52 Food Plazas are under operation on Indian Railways at
Patna-First floor, Patna-Ground floor, Howrah (New & Old Complex),
Vishakapatnam, Ranchi, Bilaspur, Raipur, Mughal Sarai, Sealdah,
Jharsuguda, Delhi Main, Nizamuddin, Allahabad, Lucknow, Jaipur,
Varanasi, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Vijayawada-II, Kacheguda, Rajamundry,
Secunderabad, Coimbatore, Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore, Chennai
Beach, Chennai Park, Bangalore, Thrissur, Madurai, Tiruchchirappalli,
Shoranur, Ernakulam North, Ernakulam South, Katpadi, Cannanore, Pune,
Mumbai Central, Mumbai CST-Suburban Concourse, Mumbai CST-Main line
Bldg, Mumbai Churchgate, Mumbai Churchgate-II, Nagpur, Agra,
Habibganj, Jabalpur, Ahemdabad, Bhusawal, Akola, Surat and Bhopal.
Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) will further
commission six new Food Plazas at Palghat, Calicut, Dhone, Mangalore,
Kota and Puri by April 2010. Besides, 25 Food Plazas of IRCTC are
under construction at Pune, Manmad, Nasik, Thane, Vadodara,
Ahmednagar, Matheran, Rajkot, Solapur, Daund, Ghaziabad, Amritsar,
Salem, Erode, Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore Cantt., Dharmavaram, Guwahati,
Darjeeling, Ghum, Ranigarh, Kharagpur, Tata Nagar, Bhubaneshwar and
Cuttack.
There will be no loss of job for existing catering staff since Food
Plazas are provided in addition to the existing catering units.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri
K.H. Muniyappa in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
aks/hk/lk/tr/dk/kol/16:49 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Railways LOK SABHA
Doubling of Railway line during last three years
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
A total 1175 kilometres of doubling/multiple lines were completed
against the target of 2135 kilometres during the last three years i.e.
2006-07, 2007-08 And 2008-09. An amount of about Rs. 4707 crore was
allocated for doubling works done during this period.
To expedite completion of railway projects, a number of initiatives
have been taken to generate additional resources through non-budgetary
measures like public-private partnership, funding by State Governments
and other beneficiaries. Besides, to reduce delays on account of land
availability, security issues and forestry clearances etc., meetings
with State officials are held from time to time. Contract conditions
have been modified to bring in efficiency in contract management, and
field units have been further empowered.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri
K.H. Muniyappa in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
aks/hk/lk/tr/dk/kol/16:50 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Railways LOK SABHA
Execution of Railway Projects through Public-Private Partnership
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Indian Railways have identified certain areas for possible execution
through public-private partnership route. These include development of
world class stations, establishment of super specialty
hospitals/medical colleges, setting up of manufacturing units for
rolling stock, setting up of perishable cargo centres, infrastructure
projects for port connectivity and several activities in
catering/tourism and hospitality area.
In South Central Railway, Obulavaripalle-Krishnapatnam new line
project (112 kms.) has been taken up with private sector participation
through Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) formed by Rail Vikas Nigam
Limited (RVNL) in partnership with Krishnapatnam Port Company Limited
and Bramhani Industries Limited along with NMDC Limited and Government
of Andhra Pradesh.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri
K.H. Muniyappa in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
aks/hk/lk/tr/dk/kol/16:50 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Labour & Employment
"Effect of Economic slowdown on employment in India"
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The fifth Quarterly Quick Employment Survey was conducted during
October to December, 2009 by Labour Bureau to assess the impact of
economic slowdown on employment in India.
In the survey, a fresh sample of units / establishments has been drawn
to assess the employment trends. The information has been collected
from 2,953 units / establishments by covering 21 centres spread across
eleven States and union territory.
The results about effect of economic slowdown on employment in the
eight selected sectors namely textiles, metals, leather, automobiles,
Gems & Jewellery, Transport, Information Technology/BPO and Handloom /
Powerloom are summarized as below:-
>> The overall employment has further improved by about 6.38 lakh (@1.70% per month) during December 2009 over September 2009 due to substantial increase in employment by 5.70 lakh in the IT / BPO sector alone.
>> During the quarter October to December 2009, the employment, in fact, has increased in all the sectors studied except a marginal decline in the transport sector. This increase in employment also testifies the growth in the industrial sector during the quarter October to December 2009.
>> The survey findings show that majority of the employment gain in December 2009 as compared to September 2009 is registered in the exporting units. Out of the total increase of 6.38 lakh jobs during this period, 5.80 lakh jobs (91 percent) have been added in the export units. In IT / BPO alone 4.87 lakh jobs have been added in export units during the period. Employment in export units of all other sectors covered (except transport sector) increased moderately or marginally during the period.
>> As compared to exporting units, the increase in employment in non-exporting units is significantly lower i.e. by only 0.58 lakh during the quarter October-December 2009.
>> The results of the Surveys of different quarters show that the employment declined by 4.91 lakh during the quarter October-December, 2008; increased by 2.76 lakh during January-March, 2009; declined by 1.31 lakh during April-June, 2009 probably due to seasonality; increased by 4.97 lakh during the quarter July-September, 2009 and increased by 6.38 lakh in the current quarter October to December 2009.
Thus on the basis of the sample, the estimated employment in the
selected sectors has experienced a net addition of 7.90 lakh since
September 2008.
ysk:pm/dk/kol/16:50 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Textiles LOK SABHA
No proposal for banning cotton exports
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
There is sufficient stock of cotton in the country to meet the demand
of the mills as well as export. No proposal is under consideration for
banning the cotton export at this stage. This was stated by the
Minister of State for Textiles, Smt. Panabaaka Lakshmi in the Lok
Sabha today, in a written reply to a question by Shri Datta Meghe and
Shri Varun Gandhi.
The Minister further stated that with the intervention of Technology
Mission on Cotton (TMC) Scheme and commercial release of Bacillus
Thuringiensis (Bt) cotton, the cotton production in the country has
increased substantally from 158 lakh bales from the year 2001-02 to
295 lakh bales in the current cotton season 2009-10 (Oct. –Sept.).
rm/as-pq1-usq 1205 - ls/dk/kol/16:51 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Textiles LOK SABHA
Promotion of Handicrafts
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Government has taken steps to promote the brand image for Indian
Handicrafts in the world market. The steps taken to promote the Brand
Image of Indian Handicrafts include; organizing buyer-seller
meet/seminars to create awareness about Indian Handicrafts, publicity
measures such as release of advertisement in print media in US and
Europe through Trade magazines, launching of website for providing
authentic information on handmade carpets, participation in
Fairs/Exhibition abroad, organizing Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair
twice a year, organizing Thematic Exhibition etc. This was stated by
the Minister of State for Textiles, Smt. Panabaaka Lakshmi in the Lok
Sabha today, in a written reply to a question by Shri Varun Gandhi.
The Minister further stated that the steps taken for protection of
crafts under the Intellectual Property Right (IPR) Act include;
registration of 33 crafts for their Geographical Indication under
Intellectual Property Right (IPR) Act.
rm/as-pq2-usq 1254 - ls/dk/kol/16:51 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports RAJYA SABHA
Guidelines regarding Sports Association
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Delhi High Court has recently restrained the office bearers of
National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) from holding the office, as
they were continuing beyond the two tenure limit. This information was
given by the Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Shri Pratik
Prakashbapu Patil in a written reply to a question by Shri Rajeev
Chandrasekhar in the Rajya Sabha today.
The Minister further stated that as per the Govt. Guidelines issued in
1975 the office bearers of National Sports Federations (NSFs) shall
not hold office consecutively for more than two terms or eight years.
Further, it stipulates that an office bearer to be re-elected for the
second term, should not have secured less than two third votes of the
members. The definition of office bearers for the purpose of these
guidelines, includes the President, the Secretary/Secretary General
and the Treasurer.
The Minister further stated that due to strong opposition to the
implementation of tenure restriction, from the Indian Olympic
Association (IOA) and NSFs, the said instructions have been kept in
abeyance since October, 2001. As such, the tenure restriction is not
being applied to IOA and NSFs at present. However, it is a fact that
office bearers in many NSFs including IOA, are continuing beyond the
two tenure limit. In a few case, affected parties have challenged such
continuation in various Court of Law. In one such case, the Court has
passed an injunction against office bearers who have crossed the two
tenure limit, from holding the office. In another case also, whether
the action of a federation, of removing tenure restriction from their
constitution was challenged, the Court made several observations,
including the need for Government to enforce its own guidelines more
effectively. In addition to these cases, recently in a Public Interest
Litigation several issues concerning mismanagement of NSFs, including
flagrant violation of the tenure restriction, have been raised.
In view of the above developments, the Government is seized of the
concerned raised from various quarters, on the tenure issue, and is in
the process of reviewing the whole matter, in consultation with all
stakeholders, including sports bodies, the Minister added.
rm/as - pq2 - usq 891 - rs/dk/kol/16:52 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports RAJYA SABHA
Safety of CWG participants
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Ministry of Home Affairs and Delhi Police have set up an International
Security Liaison Group (ISLG) to ensure safety of their delegates and
sports persons. This information was given by the Minister of State
for Youth Affairs & Sports, Shri Pratik Prakashbapu Patil in a written
reply to a question by Shri Rajkumar Dhoot in the Rajya Sabha today.
The Minister further stated that ISLG has been in constant touch with
participating countries with a view to discuss security plans and
address their security concerns. The ISLG has also been organizing
collective and individual briefings of the participating countries to
apprise them of the elaborate arrangements being made to thwart ant
terrorist attempt. Besides, Delhi Police has prepared a detailed Plan
in this regard for providing a safe and secure environment for
successful staging of the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in October,
2010. This plan, inter-alia, includes safety and security of visiting
Heads of State/Government, athletes, officials, foreign media
personnel and spectators. It will also ensure maintenance of law &
order and smooth flow of traffic during the Games. The Delhi Police
measures will also encompass area security, perimeter security, access
control anti-sabotage check of all venues, including Stadia, Hotels,
Practice Venues and the Games Village etc, the Minister added.
rm/as - pq3 - usq 893 - rs/dk/kol/16:52 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of External Affairs Rajya Sabha
Water sharing problem with Pakistan
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Government has seen reports regarding the remarks made by Adviser to
the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Education, Sardar Aseff Ali,
stating, inter alia, that India will have to stop "stealing"
Pakistan's water as Pakistan will not hesitate to wage war with New
Delhi if it does not stop doing so, that the distribution of water is
a sensitive issue and it may trigger a war between India and Pakistan,
and that Pakistan might seek international arbitration on the water
issue by taking it up with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or
the United Nations Security Council if India tried to construct any
more dams that affect Pakistan's share of water.
The allegation that India has denied Pakistan the share of water it is
entitled to under the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 between
India and Pakistan, is completely baseless and has been categorically
rejected. The Government is in full compliance with the Treaty. All
issues regarding the implementation of the Treaty should be resolved
through the existing mechanisms under the IWT.
This information was given by Shri S.M.Krishna, Union Minister of
External Affairs in reply to a question by Shri Moinul Hassan in Rajya
Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:52 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of External Affairs Rajya Sabha
Decisions during Indo-Pak talks
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Foreign Secretary level talks between India and Pakistan were held on
February 25, 2010. The two sides had a frank, constructive and useful
exchange of views. During the talks, India's concerns on the terrorism
emanating from Pakistan and directed against India were conveyed
clearly in a forthright manner. Further information on terrorist
threats and activities against India emanating from Pakistan was also
handed over to the Pakistani side for investigation and appropriate
action. Pakistan Foreign Secretary expressed the desire and
determination of the Government of Pakistan to make all possible
efforts for a successful conclusion of the Mumbai attack trial which
is underway in Pakistan. He stated that Pakistan was determined not to
allow its territory to be used for terrorist activity against any
country, and said that the additional information provided by India on
February 25, 2010 will be studied. Pakistan raised certain issues
which were responded to appropriately, reiterating our national
position on these issues. It was also decided to address urgent
humanitarian matters.
The two Foreign Secretaries have agreed to remain in touch and
continue their endeavour to build trust and confidence.
This information was given by Shri S.M.Krishna, Union Minister of
External Affars in reply to a question by Shri. Varinder Singh Bajwa
in Rajya Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:53 hrs.
From: Press Information Bureau Ministry of I&B <pib.kolkata@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, Mar 4, 2010 at 5:13 PM
Subject: Releases.........pt2
To: aaj.jela1@gmail.com, arthik_lipi@rediffmail.com, azadhind@cal2.vsnl.net.in, daily_durantabarta@indiatimes.com, debashis61@gmail.com, editor@theeconomicstudies.com, ianskol@gmail.com, kalantarpatrika@rediffmail.com, nabendu.guha@etv.co.in, news@echoofindia.com, pibgangtok@gmail.com, prasenjitbaksi@indiatvnews.com, rajasarkar66@rediffmail.com, shabina.akhtar@gmail.com, shankarsingh_1971@yahoo.co.in, suva121@rediffmail.com, thephoenixash@yahoo.co.in, thewinning@gmail.com, aajkaal <aajkaaladvt022@yahoo.com>, Akhbar-E Mashriq <amashriq@cal2.vsnl.net.in>, Ananda Bazar Patrika <anandabazar@abpmail.com>, ananda samachar <anandasamachar@yahoo.com>, asarkar <asarkar@hindustantimes.com>, Asian Age <asianage@cal.vsnl.net.in>, avijit2006in <avijit2006in@gmail.com>, bartaman <bartaman@satyam.net.in>, bharat mitra <bharatmitra1@yahoo.com>, bloom <bloomsnews@gmail.com>, business standard <edical@business-standard.com>, "chhapte@cal2.vsnl.net.in" <chhapte@cal2.vsnl.net.in>, dailynaviparbhat <dailynaviparbhat@vsnl.net>, Dainik Vishwamitra <vismitra@cal2.vsnl.net.in>, "durbar.kalam2" <amar.naskar@durbarkalam.com>, Hind azad <azadhind2001@hotmail.com>, "jamshedpur@jagran.com" <jamshedpur@jagran.com>, PIB Kolkata <pibcalcutta3@yahoo.com>, pibcalcutta1 <pibcalcutta1@yahoo.com>, pratidin <pratidin@cal2.vsnl.net.in>, Press Trust of India <ptical@sify.com>, "ptikolkata@vsnl.net" <ptikolkata@vsnl.net>, rajasthan patrika <kolkata@rajasthanpatrika.com>, saltlake samvad <viswabandhuu@yahoo.co.in>, sanmarg <sanmarg@satyam.net.in>, sk6149 <sk6149@dataone.in>, sunchari <sunchari@sify.com>, "sunchari@sify.com Janpath" <janpath_samachar@sancharnet.in>, "suprabhat@cal.vsnl.net.in" <suprabhat@cal.vsnl.net.in>, "sushmita.assam" <sushmita.assam@gmail.com>, The Statesman <thestatesman@vsnl.com>, The Telegraph <thetelegraph@abpmail.com>, "toical@indiatimes.com" <toical@indiatimes.com>, United News of India <unical@uniindia.com>, uttarbanga sambad <uttarbanga@hotmail.com>, yugsambadarpan <yug_sambad@rediffmail.com>
Cc: anucal@vsnl.net, assign_bangla@starnews.co.in, hirak@abpmail.com, marcus@thehindu.co.in, palashbiswaskl@gmail.com, rajatsm@rediffmail.com, ranzunzardaily@yahoo.co.in, shabina.akhtar@abp.in, sushkanu1@yahoo.com, All India Radio <rnucal@vsnl.net>, amitabh bhattasali <amitabha.bhattasali@gmail.com>, ashis <ashis@hindustantimes.com>, bbcworld <sunita.nahar@bbc.co.uk>, bengalexpress <bengalexpress1@gmail.com>, "bww@cal3.vsnl.net.in" <bww@cal3.vsnl.net.in>, dgpraja <dgpraja@yahoo.co.in>, dgpraja1 <dgpraja@gmail.com>, dharitri <dharitripress@hotmail.com>, Doordarshan kolkata <ddk_kolkata@onlysmart.com>, "durbar.kalam1" <durbarkalam@yahoo.co.in>, "edit-ss@nic.in" <edit-ss@nic.in>, goswami_sushmita <goswami_sushmita@rediffmail.com>, himalayan <himalayantimes@gmail.com>, ibns2008 <ibns2008@gmail.com>, kinsuk pallab biswas <biswas.kinsukpallab@rediffmail.com>, kinsuk pallab biswas <biwas_kinsukpallab@hotmail.com>, "mail@ganashakti.co.in" <mail@ganashakti.co.in>, mouparna <mouparna@gmail.com>, nahar sunita <naharsunita@yahoo.co.uk>, parixit <parixit_kolkata@rediffmail.com>, paul paul41 <ppaul41@rediffmail.com>, pawan Kumar Jha <pawan_jha3@yahoo.com>, "pkcal@prabhatkhabar.com" <pkcal@prabhatkhabar.com>, ppaul <ppaul@deccanherald.co.in>, prabashi barta <prabashi_barta@yahoo.co.in>, "pranabkumardas_2004@yahoo.com" <pranabkumardas_2004@yahoo.com>, "rainbow@cal.vsnl.net.in" <rainbow@cal.vsnl.net.in>, rajeev dabral <rajeevdabral@yahoo.com>, Ravi Shankar Singh <raviepatrika@gmail.com>, sanat <sanatm@vsnl.com>, sanjib singh <expresspoorva@yahoo.co.in>, sankar ray <sankarray@hotmail.com>, santanu saraswati <santanusaraswati@gmail.com>, saptarshi basu <khabarkolkata@sify.com>, saraswati santanu <santanu_saraswati@hotmail.com>, Sreya <sreyaster@gmail.com>, subhajitdasbhaumik <subhajitdasbhaumik@gmail.com>, sujoi dhar <sujoi@vsnl.com>, sujoy dhar <sujoydhar@gmail.com>, sumit <sumit.moitra@newswire18.com>, Suvendu Chatterjee <office@drik.net>, Suvendu Chatterjee <suvendu@in.drik.net>, Suvendu Chatterjee <suvendudrik@gmail.com>
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs RAJYA SABHA
Legal support to migrants
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The emigrant workers holding Emigration Clearance Required (ECR)
passports and going overseas for employment are governed by the
Emigration Act, 1983. Under the Act, emigration clearance for
employment overseas is given only after verification of the demand
letter, power of attorney and the terms and conditions of the work
contract. The work contract of the women workers are mandatorily
required to be attested by the Indian Mission concerned. The emigrant
worker seeking emigration clearance from the Office of Protector of
Emigrants has to subscribe mandatorily under the Pravasi Bhartiya Bima
Yojana (PBBY), before departure for overseas employment abroad. The
PBBY provides the insured emigrant a cover for a minimum sum of 30,000
rupees in connection relating to his / her employment, provided the
necessity of filing such case is certified by the appropriate Ministry
of that country. The actual expenses incurred will be certified by the
concerned Indian Mission / Post. Besides the Indian Missions abroad
facilitate assistance to the emigrant workers in distress including
legal assistance in the foreign Country.
The Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) established in 17 ECR
countries and Maldives provides for meeting contingency expenditure
incurred by the Missions for carrying out various on-site welfare
activities for overseas Indian citizens in distress. These activities
include providing initial legal assistance to the overseas Indians in
deserving cases.
This information was given by the Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs,
Shri Vayalar Ravi in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
pkm/dk/kol/16:42 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs RAJYA SABHA
Immigration norms changed by UK
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Government of U.K has amended their immigration laws and launched
a Point- Based System (PBS) in 2008 to streamline the entry into U.K
of non EU workers. Under the new PBS, there is a five Tier framework,
through which a non-EU national could gain entry into UK for work,
study or training. The five tiers envisage different conditions,
entitlements and entry clearance checks/procedures. On 10 February
2010, following a review of its operation, the UK Home Secretary
announced a number of changes to the criteria of tier four of the PBS
meant for students. These require a good standard of English which is
required to be demonstrated in order to be permitted to study any
course below degree level; restricting the lowest-level courses (A
levels and equivalent) to only the most trusted institutions; halving
the amount of time available for work for a student studying below
first degree level or on a foundation degree course, to just 10 hours
during term time; a ban on bringing in dependants for anyone studying
a course for less than six months; and a ban on dependants of anyone
studying a course lower than foundation or undergraduate degree level
from working could face removal from the UK if found doing so. The
measures are intended only for students who come to UK to study
courses below degree level. There are no changes for students who come
to UK to study a foundation degree, courses at degree level or those
coming to UK as a child- student.
This information was given by the Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs,
Shri Vayalar Ravi in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
pkm/dk/kol/16:42 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs RAJYA SABHA
Voting rights for NRIs
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, 2006 was introduced
in the Rajya Sabha on the 27th February, 2006. The Bill seeks to amend
section 20 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950 (43 of 1950)
to enable Indian citizens who are absent from their place of ordinary
residence in India owing to their employment, education or otherwise
outside the country, to get their names registered in the electoral
rolls of the constituency of their place of ordinary residence in
India to be able to cast their votes in the Parliamentary/State
elections, in case they happen to be in their constituency at the time
of polls. The Bill was referred to the Department Related
Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, and
Law & Justice on the 26th March, 2006 for examination and report. The
Committee presented its 16th report on the subject to the Rajya
Sabha/laid it in the Lok Sabha on the 4th August, 2006. In its report,
the Committee, while agreeing with the letter and spirit of the
proposed bill for amendment, had recommended the bringing of a
comprehensive bill on the subject, containing all the details
regarding the manner of enrolment of the Non-Resident Indians, the
mode of voting and the conditionalities for contesting elections. The
Legislative Department in the Ministry of Law and Justice is working
on a draft bill, which will be presented to Parliament after approval
by the Cabinet.
This information was given by the Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs,
Shri Vayalar Ravi in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
pkm/dk/kol/16:43 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation RAJYA SABHA
Urban Housing Policy
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Kumari Selja has
said that the Union Government has formulated the first urban area
focused 'National Urban Housing & Habitat Policy, 2007 (NUHHP: 2007)'
to set in motion a process in providing 'Affordable Housing for All'
particularly the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Low Income
Group (LIG). This policy intends to promote sustainable development of
habitat in the country with a view to ensuring equitable supply of
land, shelter and services at affordable prices to all sections of
society. The policy seeks promoting various types of public-private
partnerships – of the government sector with the private sector, the
cooperative sector, the financial services sector, the state
parastatals, urban local bodies, etc. – for realizing the goal of
affordable housing for all. The policy has been widely circulated to
States/Union Territories. However, 'Land' and 'Colonisation' being
State subjects, it is primarily the responsibility of State
Governments to follow up on the initiatives propounded in the Policy.
In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today she said, the Working
Group on Housing for the Tenth Plan had estimated that around 90 per
cent of housing shortage pertained to the weaker sections. The Working
Group had also estimated the urban housing shortage at the beginning
of Tenth Plan at 8.89 million units.
The Minister said, a Technical Group constituted by the Ministry in
2006 to assess the urban housing shortage has estimated that
accounting for factors of congestion and obsolescence at the end of
the 10th Five Year Plan (2007-08), the total housing shortage in the
country was 24.71 million.
'Land' and 'colonisation' being state subjects, the onus of providing
adequate and affordable housing is on states. However, the Ministry of
Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation of the Union Government is
propagating and promoting the NUHHP: 2007, as also implementing
schemes for providing affordable housing to urban poor, she added.
ad/db/dk/kol/16:43 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers LOK SABHA
Subsidy on Fertilizers
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
In the context of the Nation's food security, the declining response
of agricultural productivity to increased fertilizer usage in the
country and to ensure the balanced application of fertilizers, the
Government has introduced Nutrient Based Subsidy Policy (NBS) for
decontrolled P&K fertilizers, w.e.f. 1.4.2010. Under NBS, subsidy will
be based on the nutrients i.e. Nitrogen (N), Phosphate (P), Potash (K)
and Sulphur (S) contained in the decontrolled P&K fertilizers already
covered under the subsidy scheme, namely Di Ammonium Phosphate (DAP),
Mono Ammonium Phosphate (MAP), Triple super Phosphate (TSP), Muriate
of Potash (MOP), 12 grades of Complex Fertilizers, Single Super
Phosphate (SSP) and indigenous ammonium Sulphate (AS) produced by FACT
and GSFC. The per nutrient subsidy shall be decided annually by
Department of Fertilizers based on the recommendations of the Inter
Ministerial Committee (IMC) constituted under the Chairmanship of
Secretary (Fertilizers) and representatives of Department of
Agriculture & Cooperation, Department of Expenditure, Planning
commission and Department of Agricultural Research and Education. Any
variant of the fertilizers mentioned above with secondary and
micronutrients (except 'S') in such fertilizers will attract a
separate per tonne subsidy to encourage their application along with
primary nutrients. The Nutrient Based Subsidy, so decided by the
Government, will be converted into subsidy per tonne for each
subsidized fertilizer. The distribution and movement of fertilizers
along with import of finished fertilizers will be monitored through
the 'Fertilizer Monitoring System'. 20% of the above said decontrolled
fertilizers produced/imported in India will be in the movement control
under the Essential Commodities Act 1955 (ECA) to regulate the
movement of these fertilizers to bridge the supplies in underserved
areas. Freight subsidy on decontrolled fertilizers will be restricted
to the rail freight. The road freight is assumed to be part of the
fixed subsidy and the retail prices. The import of all the
decontrolled subsidized fertilizers including complex fertilizers will
be placed under Open General License. The market price of the
subsidized decontrolled fertilizers will be determined based on the
demand supply forces. However, the Government has decided that under
the Nutrient Based Subsidy for 2010-11, subsidy for the nutrients 'N',
'P', 'K' & 'S' will be fixed in such a manner that the farm gate
prices of non-urea fertilizers are as far as possible, near the
current prices so that the farmers are not adversely affected. The
customized fertilizers and the fertilizer mixture industry will be
able to receive the subsidized fertilizers from the
manufacturers/importers after its receipt in the districts as inputs
for manufacturing customized fertilizers/fertilizer mixture. A
separate additional subsidy will be provided to the indigenous
manufacturers producing complex fertilizers using Naphtha based
captive ammonia to compensate for the higher cost of production for a
period of two years. Such units will have to convert their plants from
Naphtha based to gas based plants. The payment of subsidy to the
manufacturers/importers of DAP/MOP/Complex fertilizers/MAP/TSP/AS
shall be based on the receipt of fertilizers in the districts of the
States. The payment of subsidy to the manufacturer/marketer of SSP
shall be based on the sale of SSP in the States.
The Government has decided to increase the MRP of urea by 10% from the
current Rs. 4830/MT to Rs. 5310/MT w.e.f. 1.4.2010. However, urea will
remain under partial movement and distribution control of Government.
Import of urea will remain canalized during the first phase. The
import of urea is made to bridge the gap between the requirement and
the indigenous production. The fertilizer subsidy bill depends upon
the cost of urea, requirement of fertilizer and the MRP of the same.
By virtue of increase in MRP of Urea w.e.f. 1st April 2010, the
quantum of subsidy is not expected to increase.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Chemicals and
Fertilisers Shri Srikant Kumar Jena in a written reply in the Lok
Sabha today.
dnm/pkm/sb/dk/kol/16:43 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers LOK SABHA
Compensation to Bhopal Gas Victims
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
As on 31.1.2010 compensation amounting to Rs. 1549.08 crores has been
disbursed to 5,73,896 claimants of 56 wards in Bhopal city, after due
adjudication. Based on orders of the Supreme Court, additional
pro-rata compensation of over Rs. 1509.72 crore has been disbursed to
5,62,593 gas victims, as on 31.1.2010. The number of pending cases of
absentee claimants for pro-rata compensation as on 31.1.2010 is
11,781. The Welfare Commissioner has moved the Supreme Court to permit
it to treat these long pending cases of absentee claimants as closed.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Chemicals and
Fertilisers Shri Srikant Kumar Jena in a written reply in the Lok
Sabha today.
dnm/pkm/sb/dk/kol/16:44 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers LOK SABHA
Increase in Price of Insulin
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has not given
permission to increase the price of Insulin recently by 10 per cent.
NPPA has revised the prices of imported insulin formulation recently
on 21.1.2010 based on applications received from different importers.
The price change ranged from (-) 2.37% to 0 percent, except in one
case where the price was increased by 8.91% due to increase in
exchange rate. In addition, the price of indigenous insulin
formulation manufactured by M/s Torrent was increased by 6.6% from Rs.
152.50 (without taxes), to Rs. 162.54 (without taxes) per 10ml vial
based on Form III application filed by the company. The price earlier
fixed in May, 2006 was Rs. 152.50.
NPPA has not received any specific representation in this regard.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Chemicals and
Fertilisers Shri Srikant Kumar Jena in a written reply in the Lok
Sabha today.
dnm/pkm/sb/dk/kol/16:44 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Water Resources RAJYA SABHA
Sindhu Basin
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Kutch region of Gujarat is not considered to form a part of the Indus
Basin as per the present available basin maps or the Irrigation
Commission Report of 1972. The Government has received a
representation from the State of Gujarat regarding allocation of the
Indus water of Gujarat.
Some water issues among the present beneficiary States of the rivers
Ravi, Beas and Sutlej are already before the Hon'ble Supreme Court for
decision. Any new suggestion for reallocation of these waters is
dependant on the decision on these issues and the present beneficiary
States agreeing to spare some water.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Water
Resources, Shri Vincent H. Pala in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha
today.
sk/rs/dk/kol/16:45 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Water Resources RAJYA SABHA
Project Report for Inter-Linking of Rivers
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Five links under the peninsular component of National Perspective Plan
(NPP) have been identified as priority links for building consensus
among concerned states for taking up their Detailed Project Reports
(DPRs). DPR of one priority link namely, Ken – Betwa has been
completed on 31.12.2008. The same was sent to the Governments of
Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh for comments. The Government of
Madhya Pradesh vide letter dated 19.8.2009 sent an alternative
proposal for consideration. The comments of the Government of Uttar
Pradesh have also been received vide their letter 23.10.2009.
Secretary (Water Resources) convened a meeting with the officials of
the Governments of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh on 3.2.2010 in
this regard. As per the decision taken in the meeting, National Water
Development Agency has taken up the work of preparation of DPR for
Phase -1 of Ken-Betwa link project consisting of Daudhan Dam, link
canal, power houses along with their components, which is planned to
be completed by April, 2010. Further, NWDA has taken up the DPRs of
another two priority links namely, Par – Tapi – Narmada & Damanganga –
Pinjal after concurrence of the concerned states which are planned to
be completed by December, 2011. The concerned states have not given
concurrence to take up DPR of another priority link namely,
Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal.
As per guideline for implementation of National Projects, river
linking projects are eligible for 90% Central Assistance. However, the
above link projects have not reached the stage of implementation. The
implementation of the link proposals under NPP depends upon consensus
and cooperation of concerned states. Further, the projects including
interlinking projects are taken up for implementation after the
clearances of the central appraising agencies which include
Environmental clearance by Ministry of Environment & Forests (MOEF),
Techno-economic clearance by Technical Advisory Committee of Ministry
of Water Resources, clearance by Ministry of Tribal Affairs and
investment clearance by the Planning Commission.
Fifth Priority link namely, Godavari (Polavaram)- Krishna (Vijayawada)
is part of the Polavaram project of the Andhra Pradesh. Planning
Commission has given investment clearance to the Polavaram Project and
the Government of Andhra Pradesh has taken up the above project
including link component as per their proposals. Polavaram project is
getting central assistance under Accelerated Irrigation Benefits
Programme (AIBP) as per it's guidelines. However, the proposal for
central assistance to this project under AIBP during current year has
not been received from the State Government.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Water
Resources, Shri Vincent H. Pala in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha
today.
sk/rs/dk/kol/16:45 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Water Resources RAJYA SABHA
Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Ministry of Water Resources has not conducted any survey for
assessment of impact of climate change on water resources. However,
the Ministry of Water Resources has constituted a "Standing Committee
for Assessment of Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources" under
the Chairman, Central Water Commission (CWC) and studies related to
impact of climate change on water resources have been taken up jointly
by National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), CWC, Central Ground Water
Board and Brahmaputra Board with participation of Indian Institute of
Technology (IIT), Guwahati, IIT, Kanpur, IIT, Kharagpur and IIT,
Roorkee and National Institute of Technology (NIT), Patna and NIT,
Srinagar.
A "Preliminary Consolidated Report on Effect of Climate Change on
Water Resources" has been brought out by NIH and CWC. Research studies
undertaken by NIH inter-alia include: (i) Impact Assessment of Climate
Change on hydrological regime of a snow and glacier melt runoff
dominated Himalayan river (Spiti River); (ii) Hydrological sensitivity
of a large Himalayan basin to the climate change (Sutlej basin); and
(iii) Effect of climatic variation on runoff regime of river Chenab.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Water
Resources, Shri Vincent H. Pala in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha
today.
sk/rs/dk/kol/16:46 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Water Resources RAJYA SABHA
Setting up of Ground Water Authority
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Ministry of Water Resources had drafted a model bill to regulate
and control the development of ground water and circulated it to
States and UTs in 1970, re-circulated in 1992, 1996 and 2005 to enable
them to enact suitable legislation on the lines of the model bill.
Ground water legislation has been enacted by 11 States/ Union
Territories viz. Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep, Kerala,
Pondicherry, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh and
Dadra and Nagar Haveli. 18 other States/UTs are also in the process of
enactment of legislation. Government of Punjab is of the view that
recourse to ground water legislation needs to be given
reconsideration. Four States namely, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur,
Nagaland and Tripura have stated that in view of the ground water
development being quite low, it is not necessary to enact such a
legislation. The State Government of Sikkim is of the view that
requirement of drinking water supply for the people is being done by
exploiting the various streams/rivers. Therefore, enactment of
legislation to control the extraction of ground water in the state of
Sikkim is not felt necessary.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Water
Resources, Shri Vincent H. Pala in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha
today.
sk/rs/dk/kol/16:46 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Tourism RAJYA SABHA
Renovation/modernization of hotels
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism Shri Sultan Ahmed has
said that keeping in view the potential of Commonwealth Games, 2010,
ITDC planned renovation/refurbishment/modernization of its Delhi based
hotels i.e. Ashok, Samrat and Janpath. Ashok Hotel and Samrat Hotel
have been announced as "Family Hotels" for the Commonwealth Games and
Hotel Janpath has been announced for the accommodation of press and
media.
In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today he said, the renovation
work in Hotel Janpath is almost complete. The renovation work in Hotel
Ashok is going on and will be completed shortly. However, it is
mentioned that during October 2009, General Assembly of Commonwealth
Games was held at partly renovated Ashok Hotel.
ad/db/dk/kol/16:47 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Defence
Makan flags off Assam Rifles Car Rally
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
A car rally of Assam Rifles was flagged off by Union Minister of State
for home Affairs Shri Ajay Makan, here today as part of the
celebrations of 175 years of Assam Rifles. The Rally team comprises of
four officers and 23 men.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister lauded the role of Assam Rifles
and said that his Ministry is planning to further improve the
capabilities of this force by modernising it, raising additional
battalions and improve the infrastructure so that it can serve the
country even better. Shri Makan hoped that the Rally will spread the
message of peace and friendship. Congratulating the participants, the
Minister wished them all success.
The Rally known as "Blaze of Glory" is sponsored by Mahindra and
Mahindra Ltd and has seven SUVs and will traverse 3500 km from Delhi
to Imphal. The conduct of the Assam Rifles Car Rally across the nation
will be instrumental in spreading the message of peace and create an
awareness of 'The Assam Rifles' amongst the masses.
The Assam Rifles one of the premiers and the oldest Para Military
Force of India has a proud history of 175 years of distinguished
service to the country in the north-eastern region. The role of the
Assam Rifles in counter insurgency operations and creating an
atmosphere of peace and security is highly commendable. Hailed as
'Sentinels of the north-east' and also 'Friends of the Hill People'
the Assam Rifles has rendered invaluable service in guarding our north
east frontiers maintaining internal security and carrying out various
developmental activities.
samir /raj/dk/kol/16:47 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Urban Development Rajya Sabha
Funds disbursal under JNNURM
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) is for
reforms driven, fast track, planned development of identified cities.
States/Cities execute a Memorandum of Agreement(MoA) with Government
of India indicating their commitment to implement identified reforms.
The first installment for projects sanctioned under Urban
Infrastructure & Governance (UIG) of Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban
Renewal Mission(JNNURM) is released on signing of MoA. The balance
amount of assistance is released in three installments upon receipt of
Utilisation Certificates to the extent of 70% of the grants (Central &
State) and subject to achievement of milestones agreed for
implementation of mandatory and optional reforms at the State and
Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)/Parastatal level as envisaged in the MoA.
Accordingly the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee (CSMC)
before releasing the future installment i.e. the second and subsequent
installments of Additional Central Assistance (ACA) satisfies itself
as regards the physical and financial progress of the projects under
implementation and achievement of milestones as agreed upon by the
States and ULBs for implementation of reforms.
National Steering Group (NSG) under JNNURM in its meeting held on
24Nov,2009 decided inter-alia that in the case of sanctioned projects
the release of further installment of ACA is not to be withheld while
the Ministry constantly pursues with the States to complete the reform
commitment.
Reforms are required to be achieved by the States and ULBs during the
Mission period as per the timelines committed in the Memorandum of
Agreement (MoA) and reforms appraisal is a continuing process. The
States/Cities report their achievement of reforms in their Quarterly
Progress Reports (QPRs). The Reform Appraisal Agencies of this
Ministry periodically visit States/Cities and assess the achievement
of reforms vis-a-vis time line committed.
This information was given by Shri Saugata Roy, Minister of State in
reply to a question by Shri B.K.Hariprasad in Rajya Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:47 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Urban Development Rajya Sabha
Allocation for JNNURM, 2009-10
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
An amount of Rs.5960.13 crore as budget estimate (BE) has been
provided for Urban Infrastructure & Governance (UIG) component of
Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission(JNNURM) for the year
2009-10.
City Development Plans (CDPs) of all the 65 Mission Cities are now
approved of which Porbandar has been approved during 2009-10.
Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with all the Mission cities (except
Porbandar) have been signed of which MoA with Tirupati and Jamshedpur
have been signed in 2009-10. 64 Projects have been approved during the
year 2009-10 with an approved cost of Rs. 9504.82 crore with
Additional Central Assistance (ACA) commitment of Rs.4014.73 crore.
Rs.2982.80 crore has been released as ACA during the period.
This information was given by Shri Saugata Roy, Minister of State in
reply to a question by Shri T.K.Rangarajan in Rajya Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:48 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Urban Development Rajya Sabha
Regularization of Colonies
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) has
informed that no formal orders regularizing unauthorized colony has
been issued by it so far pursuant to the revised Guidelines of 2007
and Regulations issued by DDA in 2008. So far, Resident Welfare
Associations (RWAs) of 1639 unauthorized colonies have applied for
regularization.
Regularization of unauthorized colonies will inter-alia involve
scrutiny of layout plans, assessment of built up percentage as on
31.3.2002, identification of mixed land use streets, approval of
layout plans, fixation of boundaries, land use change, identification
of colonies not eligible for regularization etc. Scrutiny of documents
submitted by the RWAs has been initiated and Municipal Corporation of
Delhi (MCD) has conducted camps with RWAs. Guru Gobind Singh
Indraprastha University has superimposed the boundaries of layout
plans of satellite /aerial survey images in respect of large number of
colonies. Large number of maps have been provided by GNCTD to MCD. The
progress is being monitored by GNCTD. As per the revised Guidelines of
2007 and Regulations of 2008, the work relating to regularization
involving agencies concerned is to be undertaken, co-ordinated,
monitored and supervised by GNCTD.
This information was given by Shri Saugata Roy, Minister of State in
reply to a question by Shri Mohammed Adeeb in Rajya Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:48 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Agriculture
Government Committed to remunerative prices to farmers while ensuring
food grains to the poor at affordable rates: Shri Sharad Pawar
PUSA KRISHI VIGYAN MELA INAUGURATED
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The government is committed to remunerative prices to farmers while
ensuring food grains to the poor at affordable rates. This was stated
by the Minister of Agriculture, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public
Distribution, Shri Sharad Pawar, while inaugurating the IARI Pusa
Krishi Vigyan Mela 2010 here today. He said, India will not prosper
unless the economic condition of farmers improves and their purchasing
power goes up.
Referring to steps taken by the government to ensure remunerative
prices to farmers, the Minster said, the Minimum Support Price of
wheat and paddy has been enhanced substantially. Shri Pawar asserted
that the increase in MSP encouraged farmers to increase production of
food grains. He said, the wheat production is expected to surpass the
previous record in this rabi season. The Minister informed that the
sugarcane farmers got the highest price of their cane for the first
time in this crushing season and the enhanced price will further
encourage them to increase cane acreage, which will help to tide over
the crisis of sugar shortage.
The Minister pointed out that despite remunerative prices, the
government, in order to protect the vulnerable sections of society,
continues to provide food grains to them. He said, the Central Issue
Price of wheat and rice meant for AAY, BPL and APL ration card holders
has not been raised since 2002. However, he made it clear that it is
not possible for the government to make available food grains to the
affluent people at cheap rates at par with poorer sections. The
Minister said, the country which was once upon a time dependent on
foreign countries for its food security has not only become
self-reliant in food grains but also capable of assisting our
neighbors.
The theme of this year's three- day Mela is - Agricultural
Technologies for National Prosperity. Agricultural technologies and
new seeds, plants developed by Indian Council of Agricultural Research
(ICAR), Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), its associate
institutions, private companies and farmers have been showcased in
this agriculture science fare. Visit to IARI field is also arranged
for demonstration of crops here. The Mela helps the visitors to
acquaint themselves with the recent developments in the sphere of
agriculture.
mp:sb:cp: krishimela (4.3.2010)/dk/kol/16:48 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Railways LOK SABHA
Setting up of Freight Terminals and Logistic Parks
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Setting up of freight terminals by the Indian Railways is an ongoing
process depending on traffic requirements. Discussions have been held
with concerned State Governments for development of multi-modal
logistic parks along side the Dedicated Freight Corridor and at
strategic locations under Public Private Partnership mode.
Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) has
been mandated to develop multi-modal logistics parks at four
locations, namely Rewari, Ahemdabad, Kanpur and Navi Mumbai subject to
viability. Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), a public sector
undertaking under Ministry of Railways has plans to establish multi
modal logistics park at several locations depending on business
requirements.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri
K.H. Muniyappa in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
aks/hk/lk/tr/dk/kol/16:49 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Railways LOK SABHA
Introduction of Food Plazas at Railway Stations
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
At present, 52 Food Plazas are under operation on Indian Railways at
Patna-First floor, Patna-Ground floor, Howrah (New & Old Complex),
Vishakapatnam, Ranchi, Bilaspur, Raipur, Mughal Sarai, Sealdah,
Jharsuguda, Delhi Main, Nizamuddin, Allahabad, Lucknow, Jaipur,
Varanasi, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Vijayawada-II, Kacheguda, Rajamundry,
Secunderabad, Coimbatore, Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore, Chennai
Beach, Chennai Park, Bangalore, Thrissur, Madurai, Tiruchchirappalli,
Shoranur, Ernakulam North, Ernakulam South, Katpadi, Cannanore, Pune,
Mumbai Central, Mumbai CST-Suburban Concourse, Mumbai CST-Main line
Bldg, Mumbai Churchgate, Mumbai Churchgate-II, Nagpur, Agra,
Habibganj, Jabalpur, Ahemdabad, Bhusawal, Akola, Surat and Bhopal.
Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) will further
commission six new Food Plazas at Palghat, Calicut, Dhone, Mangalore,
Kota and Puri by April 2010. Besides, 25 Food Plazas of IRCTC are
under construction at Pune, Manmad, Nasik, Thane, Vadodara,
Ahmednagar, Matheran, Rajkot, Solapur, Daund, Ghaziabad, Amritsar,
Salem, Erode, Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore Cantt., Dharmavaram, Guwahati,
Darjeeling, Ghum, Ranigarh, Kharagpur, Tata Nagar, Bhubaneshwar and
Cuttack.
There will be no loss of job for existing catering staff since Food
Plazas are provided in addition to the existing catering units.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri
K.H. Muniyappa in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
aks/hk/lk/tr/dk/kol/16:49 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Railways LOK SABHA
Doubling of Railway line during last three years
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
A total 1175 kilometres of doubling/multiple lines were completed
against the target of 2135 kilometres during the last three years i.e.
2006-07, 2007-08 And 2008-09. An amount of about Rs. 4707 crore was
allocated for doubling works done during this period.
To expedite completion of railway projects, a number of initiatives
have been taken to generate additional resources through non-budgetary
measures like public-private partnership, funding by State Governments
and other beneficiaries. Besides, to reduce delays on account of land
availability, security issues and forestry clearances etc., meetings
with State officials are held from time to time. Contract conditions
have been modified to bring in efficiency in contract management, and
field units have been further empowered.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri
K.H. Muniyappa in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
aks/hk/lk/tr/dk/kol/16:50 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Railways LOK SABHA
Execution of Railway Projects through Public-Private Partnership
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Indian Railways have identified certain areas for possible execution
through public-private partnership route. These include development of
world class stations, establishment of super specialty
hospitals/medical colleges, setting up of manufacturing units for
rolling stock, setting up of perishable cargo centres, infrastructure
projects for port connectivity and several activities in
catering/tourism and hospitality area.
In South Central Railway, Obulavaripalle-Krishnapatnam new line
project (112 kms.) has been taken up with private sector participation
through Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) formed by Rail Vikas Nigam
Limited (RVNL) in partnership with Krishnapatnam Port Company Limited
and Bramhani Industries Limited along with NMDC Limited and Government
of Andhra Pradesh.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri
K.H. Muniyappa in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
aks/hk/lk/tr/dk/kol/16:50 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Labour & Employment
"Effect of Economic slowdown on employment in India"
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The fifth Quarterly Quick Employment Survey was conducted during
October to December, 2009 by Labour Bureau to assess the impact of
economic slowdown on employment in India.
In the survey, a fresh sample of units / establishments has been drawn
to assess the employment trends. The information has been collected
from 2,953 units / establishments by covering 21 centres spread across
eleven States and union territory.
The results about effect of economic slowdown on employment in the
eight selected sectors namely textiles, metals, leather, automobiles,
Gems & Jewellery, Transport, Information Technology/BPO and Handloom /
Powerloom are summarized as below:-
>> The overall employment has further improved by about 6.38 lakh (@1.70% per month) during December 2009 over September 2009 due to substantial increase in employment by 5.70 lakh in the IT / BPO sector alone.
>> During the quarter October to December 2009, the employment, in fact, has increased in all the sectors studied except a marginal decline in the transport sector. This increase in employment also testifies the growth in the industrial sector during the quarter October to December 2009.
>> The survey findings show that majority of the employment gain in December 2009 as compared to September 2009 is registered in the exporting units. Out of the total increase of 6.38 lakh jobs during this period, 5.80 lakh jobs (91 percent) have been added in the export units. In IT / BPO alone 4.87 lakh jobs have been added in export units during the period. Employment in export units of all other sectors covered (except transport sector) increased moderately or marginally during the period.
>> As compared to exporting units, the increase in employment in non-exporting units is significantly lower i.e. by only 0.58 lakh during the quarter October-December 2009.
>> The results of the Surveys of different quarters show that the employment declined by 4.91 lakh during the quarter October-December, 2008; increased by 2.76 lakh during January-March, 2009; declined by 1.31 lakh during April-June, 2009 probably due to seasonality; increased by 4.97 lakh during the quarter July-September, 2009 and increased by 6.38 lakh in the current quarter October to December 2009.
Thus on the basis of the sample, the estimated employment in the
selected sectors has experienced a net addition of 7.90 lakh since
September 2008.
ysk:pm/dk/kol/16:50 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Textiles LOK SABHA
No proposal for banning cotton exports
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
There is sufficient stock of cotton in the country to meet the demand
of the mills as well as export. No proposal is under consideration for
banning the cotton export at this stage. This was stated by the
Minister of State for Textiles, Smt. Panabaaka Lakshmi in the Lok
Sabha today, in a written reply to a question by Shri Datta Meghe and
Shri Varun Gandhi.
The Minister further stated that with the intervention of Technology
Mission on Cotton (TMC) Scheme and commercial release of Bacillus
Thuringiensis (Bt) cotton, the cotton production in the country has
increased substantally from 158 lakh bales from the year 2001-02 to
295 lakh bales in the current cotton season 2009-10 (Oct. –Sept.).
rm/as-pq1-usq 1205 - ls/dk/kol/16:51 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Textiles LOK SABHA
Promotion of Handicrafts
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
The Government has taken steps to promote the brand image for Indian
Handicrafts in the world market. The steps taken to promote the Brand
Image of Indian Handicrafts include; organizing buyer-seller
meet/seminars to create awareness about Indian Handicrafts, publicity
measures such as release of advertisement in print media in US and
Europe through Trade magazines, launching of website for providing
authentic information on handmade carpets, participation in
Fairs/Exhibition abroad, organizing Indian Handicrafts and Gifts Fair
twice a year, organizing Thematic Exhibition etc. This was stated by
the Minister of State for Textiles, Smt. Panabaaka Lakshmi in the Lok
Sabha today, in a written reply to a question by Shri Varun Gandhi.
The Minister further stated that the steps taken for protection of
crafts under the Intellectual Property Right (IPR) Act include;
registration of 33 crafts for their Geographical Indication under
Intellectual Property Right (IPR) Act.
rm/as-pq2-usq 1254 - ls/dk/kol/16:51 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports RAJYA SABHA
Guidelines regarding Sports Association
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Delhi High Court has recently restrained the office bearers of
National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) from holding the office, as
they were continuing beyond the two tenure limit. This information was
given by the Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Shri Pratik
Prakashbapu Patil in a written reply to a question by Shri Rajeev
Chandrasekhar in the Rajya Sabha today.
The Minister further stated that as per the Govt. Guidelines issued in
1975 the office bearers of National Sports Federations (NSFs) shall
not hold office consecutively for more than two terms or eight years.
Further, it stipulates that an office bearer to be re-elected for the
second term, should not have secured less than two third votes of the
members. The definition of office bearers for the purpose of these
guidelines, includes the President, the Secretary/Secretary General
and the Treasurer.
The Minister further stated that due to strong opposition to the
implementation of tenure restriction, from the Indian Olympic
Association (IOA) and NSFs, the said instructions have been kept in
abeyance since October, 2001. As such, the tenure restriction is not
being applied to IOA and NSFs at present. However, it is a fact that
office bearers in many NSFs including IOA, are continuing beyond the
two tenure limit. In a few case, affected parties have challenged such
continuation in various Court of Law. In one such case, the Court has
passed an injunction against office bearers who have crossed the two
tenure limit, from holding the office. In another case also, whether
the action of a federation, of removing tenure restriction from their
constitution was challenged, the Court made several observations,
including the need for Government to enforce its own guidelines more
effectively. In addition to these cases, recently in a Public Interest
Litigation several issues concerning mismanagement of NSFs, including
flagrant violation of the tenure restriction, have been raised.
In view of the above developments, the Government is seized of the
concerned raised from various quarters, on the tenure issue, and is in
the process of reviewing the whole matter, in consultation with all
stakeholders, including sports bodies, the Minister added.
rm/as - pq2 - usq 891 - rs/dk/kol/16:52 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports RAJYA SABHA
Safety of CWG participants
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Ministry of Home Affairs and Delhi Police have set up an International
Security Liaison Group (ISLG) to ensure safety of their delegates and
sports persons. This information was given by the Minister of State
for Youth Affairs & Sports, Shri Pratik Prakashbapu Patil in a written
reply to a question by Shri Rajkumar Dhoot in the Rajya Sabha today.
The Minister further stated that ISLG has been in constant touch with
participating countries with a view to discuss security plans and
address their security concerns. The ISLG has also been organizing
collective and individual briefings of the participating countries to
apprise them of the elaborate arrangements being made to thwart ant
terrorist attempt. Besides, Delhi Police has prepared a detailed Plan
in this regard for providing a safe and secure environment for
successful staging of the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in October,
2010. This plan, inter-alia, includes safety and security of visiting
Heads of State/Government, athletes, officials, foreign media
personnel and spectators. It will also ensure maintenance of law &
order and smooth flow of traffic during the Games. The Delhi Police
measures will also encompass area security, perimeter security, access
control anti-sabotage check of all venues, including Stadia, Hotels,
Practice Venues and the Games Village etc, the Minister added.
rm/as - pq3 - usq 893 - rs/dk/kol/16:52 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of External Affairs Rajya Sabha
Water sharing problem with Pakistan
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Government has seen reports regarding the remarks made by Adviser to
the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Education, Sardar Aseff Ali,
stating, inter alia, that India will have to stop "stealing"
Pakistan's water as Pakistan will not hesitate to wage war with New
Delhi if it does not stop doing so, that the distribution of water is
a sensitive issue and it may trigger a war between India and Pakistan,
and that Pakistan might seek international arbitration on the water
issue by taking it up with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) or
the United Nations Security Council if India tried to construct any
more dams that affect Pakistan's share of water.
The allegation that India has denied Pakistan the share of water it is
entitled to under the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), signed in 1960 between
India and Pakistan, is completely baseless and has been categorically
rejected. The Government is in full compliance with the Treaty. All
issues regarding the implementation of the Treaty should be resolved
through the existing mechanisms under the IWT.
This information was given by Shri S.M.Krishna, Union Minister of
External Affairs in reply to a question by Shri Moinul Hassan in Rajya
Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:52 hrs.
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
* * * * *
Ministry of External Affairs Rajya Sabha
Decisions during Indo-Pak talks
New Delhi: March 4, 2010.
Foreign Secretary level talks between India and Pakistan were held on
February 25, 2010. The two sides had a frank, constructive and useful
exchange of views. During the talks, India's concerns on the terrorism
emanating from Pakistan and directed against India were conveyed
clearly in a forthright manner. Further information on terrorist
threats and activities against India emanating from Pakistan was also
handed over to the Pakistani side for investigation and appropriate
action. Pakistan Foreign Secretary expressed the desire and
determination of the Government of Pakistan to make all possible
efforts for a successful conclusion of the Mumbai attack trial which
is underway in Pakistan. He stated that Pakistan was determined not to
allow its territory to be used for terrorist activity against any
country, and said that the additional information provided by India on
February 25, 2010 will be studied. Pakistan raised certain issues
which were responded to appropriately, reiterating our national
position on these issues. It was also decided to address urgent
humanitarian matters.
The two Foreign Secretaries have agreed to remain in touch and
continue their endeavour to build trust and confidence.
This information was given by Shri S.M.Krishna, Union Minister of
External Affars in reply to a question by Shri. Varinder Singh Bajwa
in Rajya Sabha today.
tfk/hn/dk/kol/16:53 hrs.
--
Palash Biswas
Pl Read:
http://nandigramunited-banga.blogspot.com/
No comments:
Post a Comment