Current GS

Indigenous Research Projects

2010-08-13T05:02:00.000-07:00

The Government has taken a number of steps to rejuvenate indigenous research in the country. About 3600 extramural Research and Development projects per year were sanctioned by the Government in the first two years of the XI Plan in universities/colleges, national laboratories/institutes and other academic and research institutions in the country. The Government has recently established a Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) in the country as an autonomous body through an Act of Parliament.

The creation of SERB, apart from significantly enhancing the level of basic research funding, shall also impart the necessary autonomy, flexibility and speed in shaping the research programmes and delivery of funds to researchers. The launch of new initiatives Nano Mission, Mega Facilities, Open Source Drug Discovery, Network Projects, National Biotechnology Development Strategy etc. in the XI Plan period demonstrates the commitment of the Government to encourage and promote indigenous research in a better scientific environment.

Several enabling mechanisms especially in the socio-economic development sector are put in place in the XI Plan period. These are aimed at reaching technology to the weaker sections of the society so that they derive benefit in terms of enhanced income, reduced drudgery and in general an improved quality of life.

The programmes worked out for the XI Plan period include waste management for value addition and income generation to rural people; water technology initiative; solar energy research initiative; setting up Rural/Women Technology Parks; development of modified filature for silk spinning; setting up of sanitary napkin production units; empowerment of Scheduled Caste community through resources management and technology transfer and empowerment etc.

Women in Scientific Research

2010-08-13T04:59:00.000-07:00

The Government is implementing a scheme titled ‘Women Scientists Scholarship Scheme- ‘A’ (Research in Basic and Applied Sciences) under the Department of Science and Technology, which is specifically aimed at providing opportunities to women scientists and technologists for pursuing research in frontier areas of Science and Engineering.

This scheme especially encourages women scientists who have had breaks in their careers. It provides a launch pad for them to return to mainstream of Science and work as bench-level scientists in various fields of Science and Technology. About 850 women scientists have been able to re-enter mainstream science as a result of implementation of this scheme.

A Standing Committee constituted by the Department of Science and Technology to review the recommendations of the National Task Force for Women in Science and

(i) recommend special measures to ensure growth of women scientists in their professional career and

(ii) to monitor recommendations of government for facilitating appointment, working and promotion of women scientists in Science and Technology organizations as well as other general recommendations. Meanwhile, based on recommendation of the Task Force, all Aided Institutions of Department of Science and Technology have been advised to give suitable proposals to establish a state-of-art crèche facility and to build women residential block in institutions having more than 20 women scientists.

Launch of Chandrayaan-II

2010-08-13T04:49:00.000-07:00

The Chandrayaan-II project is envisaged to have an Indian Orbiter module with scientific instruments to go round the moon and a Russian Lander module carrying an Indian Rover and a few scientific instruments.

The Chandrayaan-II project will be launched using the Indian Geostationary Launch Vehicle - GSLV. The costs towards these components will be met by the Space Agencies of the respective countries. The Chandrayaan-II project is being designed and worked out based on the experience gained and lessons learnt from the Chandrayaan-I project.

The reasons that caused the termination of the Chandrayaan-I project, ahead of its originally planned life-span, are being specifically addressed in the Chandrayaan-II project.

The data provided by the Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) and Hyper-Spectral Imager (HySI) instruments, carried on-board the Chandrayaan-I spacecraft, have revealed large spans of crystalline feldspar on the lunar surface.

The data provided by the Chandrayaan-I X-ray Spectrometer (C1XS) has revealed the presence of Magnesium, Aluminium, Silicon and Calcium on the lunar surface. The analysis of the data provided by the Miniature Synthetic Aperture Radar. (Mini-SAR), the Terrain Mapping Camera (TMC), and the Lunar Laser Ranging Instrument (LLRI) has helped in photo-geological mapping of considerable part of the lunar surface.

These are in addition to the discovery of the hydroxyl and water molecules near the polar regions of the moon. Thus, the envisaged objectives of the Chandrayaan-I project have been achieved to a considerable extent.

Environment and Forests

2010-05-12T07:31:00.000-07:00

The Ministry of Environment and Forests which was seen as a regulatory hurdle in the process of economic growth has got momentum this year without diluting or compromising on environmental standards. The Ministry has adopted a more business-like and time-bound regulatory system to make economic progress possible. The Ministry’s broad objectives are conservation and survey of flora, fauna, forests and wildlife, prevention and control of pollution, afforestation and regeneration of degraded areas, protection of environment and ensuring the welfare of animals. Four vital programmes namely hurdle free environmental clearance procedure, cleaning of the river Ganga, release of CAMPA Fund and increased fund allocation to the Ministry in the Union Budget, greening degraded areas and increase forest cover in the country were adopted.

CAMPA
The compensatory Afforestation Fund Bill was revamped and reintroduced in Parliament and the environment ministry unlock the Rs 9,760 crore fund lying unutilized for afforestation. The fund, created by the Supreme Court on the recommendation of its centrally Empowered committee on forest issues, by collecting a charge from project developers diverting forests land, has remained a bone of contention between the court committee, the states and the Centre for years. Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority was constituted and fund has been released to states in installments.

Ganga
The National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA), under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister is in action. The Chief Ministers of all the states through which the river passes, Union Ministry of Urban Development, Water Resources, Science & Technology and Environment and Forests and the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission now work together.
Mission Clean Ganga will ensured that by 2020 no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluents flow into the river. An estimated investment of Rs 15,000 crores over the next 10 years will be required to create the necessary treatment and sewerage infrastructure. It was agreed that the required resources will be provided by the Centre and States over ten-year period to be shared suitably between Centre and states after Planning Commission consultations where new and innovative models for implementation will be adopted.
The issue of hydro electric projects In the upper reaches of Bhagirathi (Loharinag Pala , Pala Maneri and Bhairon Ghati) to be studied by Union Ministry of Environment and Forests and Power and report submitted to NGRBA in 60 days time. Rs 250 crore have been allocated in the Union Budget for 2009-10 for NGRBA. Rs 500 crore per year allocation in the remaining 2 years of 11th Plan has been agreed to by the Planning Commission. World Bank has been engaged for long term support of Authority’s work programme. Assistance of $1 billion has been committed for the first phase. Proposal of $3 million project preparation facility has been submitted to World Bank and has been approved. Shri Jairam Ramesh, Minister of State for Environment and Forests (I/C) and Mr. Robert Zoellick, President, World Bank issued a Joint Statement on National Ganga River Basin Authority after a meeting at Paryavaran Bhavan.
Empowered State River Conservation Authorities have been notified for West Bengal, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. Pilot projects of Sankat Mochan Foundation at Varanasi (pond based treatment) and National Botanical Research Institute (plant based wastewater management) at Hardwar have been approved, in order to encourage innovative approaches to river cleaning.

Tiger
Several milestone initiatives have been taken to strengthen tiger conservation in the country based on the recommendations of the Tiger Task Force, which was constituted by the National Board for Wildlife, in the wake of tigers getting locally extinct in Sariska. Conservation of our national animal, the tiger, is a cardinal issue with national and international ramifications. The status of tiger continues to be endangered, and the Government of India, in an ongoing manner, is providing assistance to the 17 tiger States under the Centrally sponsored scheme of Project Tiger 8 new tiger 8 New tiger reserves have been declared. Revision of project tiger scheme with new components including an enhanced village relocation package of Rs.10 lakhs per family from the earlier Rs.1 lakh, Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, declaration of 8 new tiger reserves, providing enhanced financial support to States for tiger conservation with eco-development for fringe people, taking steps for international cooperation to conserve tigers, reintroduction of tigers in Sariska and Panna and providing 100% central assistance for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force in 13 sensitive tiger reserves are some of the steps to save the tiger.
After a gap of about four years, tigers are back in Sariska. Two tigers-a male and a female-were airlifted from Ranthambhore. Three more tigers are supposed to join them shortly. This is the first time that a big cat species has been relocated in independent India. Rajasthan’s forest department, the government of India and the Wildlife Institute are involved in the project. Reintroduction of tigers in Sariska is important, because if successful this could provide a great tool in intensive genetic management of small isolated populations of tigers.
The Cabinet approved a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ministry of Environment and Forests, State Governments and Tiger Reserve Management to ensure effective tiger conservation. This tripartite MOU would foster public accountability relating to tiger conservation by ensuring reciprocal commitments between the Centre, the tiger States and the Field Director of Tiger Reserves. It also has commitments like establishment of Tiger Conservation Foundation which would promote innovative practices for involving the local stakeholders in tiger conservation.

Environment Clearance
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is an important management tool for ensuring the optimal use of natural resources for sustainable development. Environmental Management or planning is the study of the unintended consequences of a project. Its purpose is to identify, examine, assess and evaluate the likely and probable impacts of a proposed project on the environment and, thereby, to work out remedial action plans to minimize adverse impact on the environment. Transparency in environmental planning and management was also the top priority of the ministry. A new website has been developed and all applications are made online. All the essential information and status are available on the web site.

Indira Paryavaran Bhavan
Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Union Minister of Finance laid the foundation stone for the new building for the Ministry of Environment and Forests in New Delhi. Rain water harvesting system for runoff management and ground water recharge, reduction in heat island effect by plantation of trees, and use of high alb Edo materials which reflect most of soar energy are few of the features of the new building. As a tribute to the visionary leader, to whom the Ministry owes its very existence, the new office building will be named Indira Paryavaran Bhawan. This is in honour of the pioneering vision of Smt. Indira Gandhi who gave paramount importance to the preservation and conservation of the environment and its natural resources.
The design philosophy of the project focuses on incorporating various conventional and unconventional green building features. These include the efficient use of rescues such as materials, water and energy; waste management; improved indoor air quality; optimizing investment through reduced operational costs; and minimizing negative environmental impact of the building . the design approach includes careful site planning, appropriate architectural features, water and energy conservation measures, and use of locally available materials.

Bharat ka Paryavaran Ambassador
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam has been chosen the " Bharat ka Paryavaran Ambassador" in a campaign conducted in 2 00, 000 schools in India. This poll was part of the CO2 Pick Right- Kaun Banega Bharat ka Paryavaran Ambassador Programme conducted by the Centre for environment Education in partnership with Arcelor Mittal, for the Ministry of Environment and Forest Government of India.In this nation-wide campaign conducted over period of 18 months in over 70,000 schools have sent in their votes. Children voted their teachers, environmentalists, and celebrities. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam emerged as the most popular children’s choice.
This is perhaps the first unique election ever conducted in India where children were asked to choose an ambassador who would be spokesperson on sustainable choices that we all need to make. It is also interesting to note how children voted for a leader after coming to a consensus on the choice their schools.
The Pick Right campaign was originally conceptualized to be conducted in 100,000 schools which were already a part of the MoEF’s National Green Crops Programme. This was later extended to reach to 200, 000 schools. The campaign was launched on World Environment (WED) last year by President of India, Smt Pratibha Devisingh Patil. The Campaign was conducted in 15 languages.
The Ministry also observed World Wetland Day, World Forestry Day, World Water Resources Day, World Heritage Day, Earth Day, International Day to Biological Diversity, World Environment Day, World day to Combat Desertification, Van Mahotsav Week, International Ozone Day, Wildlife Week, World conservation Day etc.

Climate Change
Report "Climate Change and India: Towards Preparation of a Comprehensive Climate Change Assessment" provides an overview of a major ongoing scientific programme being coordinated by the government to assess climate change and its impact on India. This has been an ambitious endeavor, bringing together over 120 institutions and over 220 scientists from across the country. As the preparation of Copenhagen Climate Change Summit, a conference of SAARC countries was held in New Delhi.
The Indo-China Joint Workshop on National Action Plan on Climate Change was organized on 21st October 2009.China and India both have prepared National Action Plans. Considering the similarities of the Plan, it was been decided to have a Technical Workshop to share the experience on scientific, technical and policy aspects relating to climate change issues in India and China.
A Memorandum of Agreement on Cooperation on Addressing Climate Change between the Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of India was signed.
India and Japan also exchanged views on the current State of International Negotiations on Climate Change and the prospects of an agreed outcome at Copenhagen The two Ministers exchanged views on the current state of international negotiations on climate change and the prospects of an agreed outcome at Copenhagen.
India and Norway also signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Co-operation in the Area of Climate Change and Implementation of the Clean Development Mechanism Projects of the Kyoto Protocol
Awards
Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puruskar (IGPP) for the years 2006 and 2007 were presented by The President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devi Singh Patil on World Environment Day. These awards are given in recognition to those who have made measurable and major impact in the protection of Environment. Medini Puraskaar was also given which was instituted to promote original writing in Hindi on Environment. Dr. Nishant Singh was awarded first award for his book ‘Paryavaran Vidhi’. National Awards for Prevention of Pollution 2007-2008 were also awarded during the year.

Agriculture Sector

2010-05-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

Highlights:
* ADEQUATE RESPONSE TO SCANTY AND LATE MONSOONS
* REDUCES KHARIF LOSSES, IMPROVES RABI PROSPECTS
* ALLOCATION UNDER RKVY RAISED TO OVER RS. 4000 CRORE; STATES SHOWING GREATER INTEREST
* MSP OF MAJOR CROPS RAISED FURTHER
* CONSTITUTION TO BE AMENDED TO STRENGTHEN COOPERATIVES
* FARM CREDIT RS 163,195 CRORE BY SEPTEMBER; RS 325,000 CRORE TARGET FOR 2009-10
* MILK PRODUCTION CROSSES 108 MT MARK; FISH, 7.13 MT
* DROUGHT AND SUBMERGENCE RESISTANT RICE VARIETIES DEVELOPED
* INDIA PRODUCES FIRST SURVIVING CLONED BUFFALO

Details:
The year 2009 has been a dramatic year for agriculture, with monsoons playing a spoiler in record-breaking foodgrain production year after year in the previous four years. About 23 percent of the area received deficient south-west monsoon rains. Yet, despite such a severe drought and about two-thirds of Indian crop area being rainfed, Indian agriculture withstood the impact of drought and is confident of harvesting a robust crop in the coming season.

The year started with an all-time high foodgrain production of 233.88 million tonnes, comprising 117.70 million tonnes of kharif foodgrains and 116.18 million tonnes of rabi foodgrains.

After the record production came the onslaught of drought. Monsoon broke out early but halted soon after that. Rains were delayed and deficient and were distributed unevenly. The north-west India, which contributes significantly to the country’s food production, was particularly hit. Kharif crops could not be sown in time. Where farmers planted crops, subsequent dry spell dried up the standing crops.

Scanty rains also badly affected water storage in reservoirs and production of feed and fodder. Rains did come later but were not sufficient. In some parts of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, the drought spell was followed by heavy rains leading to floods.

As per the latest estimates, kharif foodgrain production in the just-ended kharif season stands at 98.83 MT as compared to 117.70 MT in 2008 kharif. The loss in foodgrain production could be contained to the extent of 16 percent primarily because of timely and concerted actions taken by the central and State governments.

The monsoons tested the resilience of Indian agriculture and the responsiveness of the government. The drought situation was closely monitored at the highest levels and adequate measures were taken in close association with States. National level meetings were held in which State Chief Ministers, Agriculture and Food Ministers, Chief Secretaries and Agriculture Secretaries participated. Monitoring of the situation and coordination was done regularly at the Prime Minister and Agriculture Minister levels followed by implementation and close coordination with implementing agencies and States at Cabinet Secretary, Agriculture Secretary and Chief Secretary levels.

An Inter-Ministerial Group on a regular basis took stock of field level preparedness. The strategy focused on protecting the standing crops, making best use of late rains and preparing in advance for the ensuing rabi. Diesel subsidy was given to farmers and additional power was given from the Central pool to many States. Relaxations were allowed in seeds parameters to increase seed availability. Truthfully labelled seed was allowed to be used in government programmes. Seed movement was coordinated across the country, particularly for late kharif and early rabi.
A nation-wide strategy has been evolved to maximize rabi production. Funds from ongoing schemes have been allowed to be used to meet these objectives. For helping States to make district-specific plans and guide them on various technical aspects, Consultants were sent to a number of States. Availability and supply of essential inputs such as fertilizers, additional power for irrigation etc have been ensured in coordination with the States and various Central Ministries. Double the number of minikits are being distributed during this rabi season.

The distribution subsidy on seeds for oilseeds, pulses, rice, wheat and maize has been enhanced for rabi 2009-10 in order to reduce the cost of seed to the farmer. Advisories continue to be issued to farmers on how to maximize production in the prevalent situation.

At present, rabi crops are being sown or have already been sown. Acreage under wheat is planned to be increased by 5 lakh hectares. This along with increase in productivity would lead to increased production of 2 million tonnes of wheat compared to the last year.

Acreage under summer/boro rice is to be increased by 12 to 15 lakh hectares in States like West Bengal, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Bihar and Eastern UP. This is expected to result in additional production of about 1 million tonnes. Area under rabi pulses is to be increased by 15 lakh hectares due to improved soil moisture on account of late monsoon rains. This is expected to result in additional production of about 1 million tonnes. Similarly, additional area under oilseeds would also bring about 1.2 million tonnes of additional production.

Rabi maize and sorghum and summer bajra would bring in 1.5 million tonnes of additional production. These efforts are likely to result in production of about 8.5 million tonnes of additional foodgrains and 1.5 million tonnes of additional oilseeds during the rabi season.

The policy support initiated in the last few years has played a major role in achieving record crop production, reducing the impact of a poor monsoon this year and planning for the coming rabi season. NFSM - the crop and area specific approach for raising foodgrain productivity on a time-bound manner – is one major programme that has started showing results. RKVY, another major scheme, has helped States in prioritizing schemes as per their specific needs and has also brought in greater investment in the agriculture sector from State and central budgets.

National Horticulture Mission and the recently set-up National Fisheries Development Board have played a major role in promoting horticulture and fisheries.

The National Food Security Mission (NFSM) was launched in 2007-08 to enhance the production of rice, wheat and pulses by 10 million tonnes, 8 million tonnes and 2 million tonnes respectively by the end of the 11th Plan. Allocation for the scheme for 2009-10 has been stepped up from Rs.1100 crore to Rs. 1350 crore. The Mission has helped to widen the food basket of the country with significant contributions coming from the NFSM districts.

Investment plays a key role in achieving higher growth rate. The plan outlay for the agriculture and allied sectors has increased substantially, partly as a result of the introduction of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) which incentivises States to increase the percentage share of State Plan expenditure in agriculture and allied sectors. The allocation under RKVY has been raised from Rs.3165 crore last year to Rs.4100 crore in 2009-10.

Minimum support prices of foodgrains have been raised significantly in the last six years. MSP for wheat has been raised to Rs.1100 per quintal for the coming crop. MSP for paddy was increased to Rs.950 per quintal for the last kharif crop and a bonus of Rs. 50 per quintal was subsequently declared. Increase in MSP has encouraged farmers to grow more foodgrains which has resulted in record procurement of wheat and rice during the last two years.

The Macro Management of Agriculture Scheme has been revised and redefined to avoid overlapping and duplication of efforts of the States and to make it more relevant to the present agricultural scenario to achieve the basic objective of food security and to improve the livelihood system for rural masses. The Scheme comprises 10 sub-schemes relating to crop production and natural resource management.

Efforts are being made to increase the production of oilseeds, pulses and oil palm to meet the rising demand through implementation of Centrally Sponsored Integrated Scheme of Oilseeds, Pulses, Oil Palm and Maize (ISOPOM) and other schemes. As a result, the production of oilseeds reached 28.16 million tonnes during 2008-09. A target of 31.60 million tonnes of oilseeds production has been fixed for 2009-10.

To upgrade the quality of farmer-saved seed, financial assistance is provided under the Seed Village Programme. So far, about 65,000 villages have been covered under this scheme and another 65,000 villages are expected to be covered during the current year. The programme will result in increased availability of about 2.20 lakh quintals of improved seed to farmers. Seed import and export regulations have been liberalized with the intention to develop the country into a major seed production and export centre. States are encouraged to obtain accreditation of seed testing laboratories from the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA).
The government provides 100% depreciation to the private sector for cold-chain and warehousing storage of agricultural products. In addition, a Terminal Markets Scheme has been launched where subsidy upto Rs.50 crore is given for setting up modern terminal markets. In addition, the scheme of supporting rural godowns continues with a subsidy of 25%.
Agricultural credit has expanded multi-fold over the last five years. By the end of October, total farm credit stood at Rs. 1,63,195 crore. A target of Rs. 3,25,000 crore has been kept for disbursement of crop loans this year, and the target is likely to be fully achieved. An interest subvention of 2% is being provided by the government for short-term agricultural credit. In addition, a 1% interest subvention for prompt repayments has also been announced as a new incentive this year.

This takes the effective rate of interest for short-term farm credit to 6%. A campaign to issue Kisan Credit Cards has been launched in all States. Nearly 9 crore credit cards have been issued so far, enabling these farmers to access credit easily from banks.

Cooperatives play a big role in agriculture, be it production, input supply or marketing. So as to ensure democratic, autonomous and professional functioning of cooperatives, the Government has introduced the 111th Constitution Amendment Bill in Parliament in November this year. It will empower cooperatives through their voluntary formation, autonomous functioning, democratic control and professional management.

ANIMAL HUSBANDRY, DAIRYING AND FISHERIES
Animal husbandry, dairying and fisheries sectors play an important role in the national economy and in the socio-economic development of the country. These sectors also play a significant role in supplementing family incomes and generating gainful employment in the rural sector, particularly, among the landless labourers, small and marginal farmers and women, besides providing cheap nutritional food to millions of people.
India continues to be the largest producer of milk in the World. Milk Production is estimated to have reached 108.00 million tonnes in 2008-09. Per capita availability of milk is expected to have reached 261 grams per day by 2008-09.

The milk production and marketing system in India is unique. Most of the milk is produced by small and marginal farmers and landless labourers who are grouped into cooperatives at the village level. To provide them a steady market and a remunerative price for the milk produced, about 13.89 million milk producers have been brought under the ambit of 1,33,349 village level dairy cooperative societies in the country.

India has achieved significant progress in the development of the fisheries sector. With a total fish production of 7.13 million tonnes in 2007-08, India contributed 4.7 per cent towards the global production of 151.70 million tonnes. While production from the inland sector is 4.21 million tonnes, the production from the marine sector stands at 2.92 million tonnes.

The country stands third in the world in total fish production and second in inland aquaculture. As many as 14.48 million persons in the country depend on the fisheries sector for their livelihood. The sector contributes around 1 per cent to the GDP and 4.56 per cent to Agriculture GDP. Fish and fish products account for Rs. 7,620 crore during 2007-08 towards country’s exports; this constitutes 14 per cent of national agriculture exports.

The Eleventh Five Year plan has targeted a fish production of ten million tonnes by 2012. The potential in marine fishing is in deep-sea fishing, as against the coastal fisheries, which have been over exploited. However, there is a vast potential for enhanced production in the inland sector. While the target growth rate for fisheries sector as a whole is 6 per cent, the targets for inland and marine sector have been fixed at 8 per cent and 2.5 per cent respectively.

A Centrally Sponsored Scheme, "Poultry Development" at a total outlay of Rs. 150 crore has been approved. It combines three components viz. ‘Assistance to State Poultry Farms’, ‘Rural Backyard Poultry Development’ and ‘Poultry Estates’.

A Central Sector Scheme ‘Integrated Development of Small Ruminants and Rabbits’ approved during the current financial year envisages setting up 54 intensive small ruminant development clusters with venture capital through NABARD as well as infrastructure development and institutional restructuring for sheep and goat development.

The 18th Livestock Census was conducted throughout the country with 15/10/2007 as the date of reference. The All India provisional results are expected to be finalized by the end of April, 2010. All India detailed household results are expected to be released by December, 2010.
The Livestock Insurance Scheme has been extended to 300 districts from 100 districts in which the scheme was implemented so far.

The Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009 (Act No. 27 of 2009)’ received the assent of the President of India on 20th March, 2009. The objective of the Act is to provide for the prevention, control and eradication of infectious and contagious diseases affecting animals and spreading of such disease from one State to another, and to meet international obligations for facilitating import and export of animals and animal products.

India had notified outbreaks of Avian Influenza (H5N1) in Assam, West Bengal and Sikkim during November 2008 to May 2009. The final disinfection process was completed on 8th June 2009. After carrying out surveillance throughout the country as per article 2.7.12.4 of the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code (2008), India declared itself free from notifiable Avian Influenza (H5N1) from 22nd October, 2009.

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
Agricultural research and education plays a crucial role in the growth of the agriculture and allied sectors. Major achievements this year include development of 147 varieties/hybrids of crops including a Bt gene containing cotton variety Bikaneri Narma. To promote use of better seeds, ICAR produced and distributed 7340 tonnes of breeder seeds of different field crops and over 25 lakh planting materials.

To contain crop loss due to droughts and floods, new varieties of rice capable of withstanding drought (Sahbhagi Dhan) and water submergence (Swarna-Sub 1) were developed. The latter can survive for 14 days under water. To ward off threat to wheat production from the globally spreading menace of stem rust, Ug99, resistant varieties (DBW 17, PBW 550, Lok 1, and Turja) have been identified.

ICAR released 3 location specific coconut varieties/hybrids and developed dry matter-rich variety potato Kufri Frysona for making French fries. Pusa Navrang, a fungal resistant grape variety with red pigmentation in both peel and pulp was developed for juice making.

To promote production-to-consumption chains for maximizing farmers’ profits, 51 models were developed for different agricultural commodities. In 102 of 150 most disadvantaged districts, 36 models of technological innovation-based sustainable rural livelihood initiatives were introduced which benefitted 50,000 farm families.

The year also witnessed production of the first survivor cloned buffalo calf. This success will pave way for faster multiplication of selected highly productive animals.

In fisheries sector, for year-round rearing of Indian carp (fish), technique for off-season spawning was developed. Open sea cage farming technology was developed for culturing sea bass. An international award-winning device was designed to reduce by-catch and juvenile fish trapping in trawl nets.

ICAR has developed cost effective amelioration technologies for waterlogged, salt affected and acid soils. In order to address the issues of impact of climate change on agriculture, a National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management has been established.

Eight new Krishi Vigyan Kendras have been added during the year. Provision has been made for e-linking of Krishi Vikas Kendras and for establishment of facilities like mobile diagnostic-cum-exhibition units, soil and water testing labs, rain water harvesting, etc.

ICAR has also set up a comprehensive accreditation system to ensure quality of education, strengthening of infrastructure and faculty improvement in agricultural universities, introduction of new courses on skill and entrepreneurship development and introduction of international fellowships.

RAJIV GANDHI GRAMEEN VIDYUTIKARAN YOJANA (RGGVY)

2010-05-12T07:23:00.000-07:00

* Under the scheme 67,080 villages have been electrified and electricity connections released to 82.83 lakh BPL households so far.
* The continuation of RGGVY in XI Plan was sanctioned on 3rd January 2009 with an outlay of Rs. 28,000 Crore. The scheme launched in March 2005 to provide access to electricity to all, for which Government provides 90% capital subsidy.
* Additional 332 projects costing Rs. 16,506 Crore have been sanctioned during XI Plan.
* Cumulatively 567 projects have been sanctioned under the scheme for Rs. 26239 Crore for electrification of 1.18 lakh villages and to provide free connections to 2.46 Crore BPL households.
* For effective and quality implementation of the projects, the Ministry has adopted turnkey mode of implementation, three-tier quality monitoring mechanism and mile stone based project monitoring.
* States have been asked to provide minimum 6 to 8 hours of electricity to the villages.
* Establishment of franchisees has been made mandatory for effective distribution management. So far franchisees have been established in about 1 lakh villages.

ULTRA MEGA POWER PROJECTS

2010-05-12T07:22:00.000-07:00

* Nine Ultra Mega Power Projects (UMPPs) of 4000 MW each have been originally identified for development under international competitive bidding route. These include 4 pit head and 5 coastal sites.
* Four UMPPs namely Sasan in MP, Krishnapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, Tilaiya in Jharkhand have been awarded to M/s Reliance Power Ltd. and Mundra in Guarat have been awarded to M/s Tata Power Ltd..
* Two units each of 800 MW of Mundra UMPP are expected to come up in the 11th Plan.
* Sites in respect of UMPPs in Chhattisgarh & Tamil Nadu have been finalized. Efforts are being made to bring them to bidding stage.
* Andhra Pradesh has confirmed second UMPP in Prakasham Distt.
* Efforts are being made for selection of sites for two additional UMPPs in Orissa and the second UMPP in Gujarat.

GENERAL BUDGET 2010-11

2010-05-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

The Union Budget this year has aimed to focus on inclusive growth and insuring food security. These concerns for aam aadami have gone hand in hand with credible measures for improving investment climate, strengthening infrastructure and fiscal consolidation. As the country looks to ‘quickly revert to high GDP growth path’ in the wake of ‘uncertain times’, concerns for inclusive growth targeting the disadvantaged sections form the defining features of the Budget.
Many new initiatives have been introduced for sustained and inclusive growth. These include setting up of Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana, Financial Stability and Development Council, Gold Regulatory Authority, Technical Advisory Group for Unique Projects, National Mission for Delivery of Justice and Legal Reforms, Independent Evaluation Office and National Clean Energy Fund,
Presenting the Union Budget 2010-11 in the Lok Sabha on 26 Feb 2010, the Finance Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee, said that three challenges would continue to engage the Indian policy planners for next few years. The first challenge is to quickly revert to the high GDP growth path of 9 per cent and then find the means to cross the double digit growth barrier. The second challenge is to consolidate recent gains in making development more inclusive. The third challenge is to remove weaknesses at different levels of governance and to improve public delivery mechanism. The Budget, therefore, focuses on fiscal consolidation, making growth more broad-based and ensuring that supply-demand imbalances are better managed.
The Minister expressed the hope that the economy will reach 10 per cent growth in not too distant a future. The Minister explained that after a fall in GDP growth in 2008-09 to 6.7 per cent, the growth has built up and 7.2 per cent growth is expected in 2009-10. The Minister said that the recovery is very encouraging as it has come about despite negative growth in agriculture sector. The growth rate in manufacturing in December 2009 was 18.5 per cent, the highest in past two decades. Similarly, there are also signs of a turnaround in the merchandise exports with a positive growth in November and December 2009 after a decline in about twelve successive months.
Expressing concern at the emergence of double digit food inflation, the Minister said that the Government has set in motion steps in consultation with the State Chief Ministers to bring down the inflation in the next few months and ensure better management of food security.
FISCAL CONSOLIDATION
The Minister said that now that the recovery has taken roots, there is a need to review public spending, mobilize resources and gear them towards building the productivity of the economy.
The government will follow the recommendations of the Thirteenth Finance Commission by capping the government debt. The Commission has recommended a capping of the combined debt of the Centre and the States at 68 per cent of the GDP to be achieved by 2014-15.
For the first time, the Government would target an explicit reduction in its domestic public debt-GDP ratio. A status paper would be brought out within six months, giving a detailed analysis of the situation and a road map for curtailing the overall public debt. This would be followed by an annual report on the subject.
The Finance Minister expressed the hope that a broad consensus would be achieved on the Direct Tax Code and the Goods and Service Tax (GST) and these would be introduced from April 2011.
IMPROVING INVESTMENT ENVIRONMENT
The Finance Minister said that a number of steps have been taken to simplify the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) regime. The government also intends to make the FDI policy user-friendly by consolidating all prior regulations and guidelines into one comprehensive document. This would enhance clarity and predictability of our FDI policy to foreign investors, he said.
With a view to strengthen and institutionalize the mechanism for maintaining financial stability, Government has decided to set up an apex-level Financial Stability and Development Council. It would monitor macro prudential supervision of the economy, including the functioning of large financial conglomerates.
Towards strengthening the banking system, the Budget provides Rs.16500 crore as Tier-I capital. It would ensure that the Public Sector Banks are able to attain a minimum 8 per cent Tier-I Capital by March 2011. Further capital would also be infused into the Regional Rural Banks (RRBs). The Minister also informed that the RBI is considering giving some additional banking licenses to private sector players. Non Banking Financial Companies could also be considered, if they meet the RBI’s eligibility criteria.
AGRICULTURE GROWTH
A four-pronged strategy would be followed to spur growth in agriculture sector. The elements of the strategy are (a) agricultural production; (b) reduction in wastage of produce; (c) credit support to farmers; and (d) a thrust to the food processing sector.
The Budget provides Rs.400 crore for extending the green revolution to the eastern region of the country comprising Bihar, Chattisgarh, Jharkhand, Eastern UP, West Bengal and Orissa, with the active involvement of Gram Sabhas and the farming families.
60,000 ‘pulses and oil seed villages’ will be organized in rainfed areas with an outlay of Rs.300 crore during 2010-11. This will provide water harvesting, watershed management and soil health facilities to enhance to productivity of dryland farming areas. Another Rs.200 crore have been provided in the Budget for conservation farming.
To improve the storage capacity of food grains, Food Corporation of India is being allowed to hire godowns from private parties for a guaranteed period of seven years. This period so far was five years.
The target for farm credit is being raised to Rs.3,75,000 crore in 2010-11 from Rs.3,25,000 crore in the current year.
The period for repayment of loans under the Debt Waiver and Debt Relief Scheme is being extended by six months to June 30,2010.
The interest subvention for timely repayment of crop loans is being raised from 1 per cent to 2 per cent. Thus, the effective rate of interest for crop loans for farmers who repay their crop loan as per schedule will now be 5 per cent per year.
Five more Mega Food Parks will be set up in addition to the 10 already being established. External Commercial Borrowings will henceforth be available for cold storage, farm level pre-cooling and preservation and storage of agricultural and allied produce marine products and meat.
INFRASTRUCTURE
The Budget provides Rs.1,73,552 crore for infrastructure, accounting for over 46 per cent of the total Plan allocation.
The allocation for road transport is being increased by over 13 per cent from Rs 17,520 crore to Rs.19,894 crore.
Disbursement for infrastructure by India Infrastructure Finance Company Ltd(IIFCL) is expected to reach Rs.20,000 crore in 2010-11 as against Rs.9,000 crore this year. Refinancing of bank landing to infrastructure projects by IIFCL is expected to be more than double in 2010-11.
ENERGY
The Plan allocation for power sector is being more than doubled from Rs.2,230 crore in 2009-10 to Rs.5,130 crore in 2010-11.
A Coal Regulatory Authority is proposed to be set up for creating level playing field in the coal sector and resolving various issues.
The Plan outlay for New and Renewal Energy Ministry is being increased by 61 per cent from Rs. 620 crore to Rs.1,000 crore, especially to support the ambitious solar energy programme.
INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT
Stating that inclusive development is an act of faith for the UPA government, the Finance Minister said that after the Right to Information, Right to Work and Right to Education, the government is now ready with the draft Food Security Bill. A sums of Rs.1,37,674 crore, representing 37 per cent of the total outlay, will be spent on social sector programmes.
Plan Allocation for school education is being increased from Rs.26,800 crore to Rs.31,036 crore to support the children’s rights to free and compulsory education. In addition, States will have an access to Rs. 3,675 crore for elementary education under the Finance Commission grant for 2010-11.
It has been decided to provide appropriate banking facilities to habitations having population in excess of 2000 by March 2012. It is also proposed to extend insurance and other services to the targeted beneficiaries. These provisions are expected to cover 60,000 habitations.
Rs.66,100 crore have been provided for Rural Development. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme gets Rs.40,100 crore and Bharat Nirman Programme, Rs.48,000 crore.
Indira Awas Yojana gets Rs.10,000 crore. The unit cost under this scheme is being raised to Rs.45,000 in plain areas and Rs.48500 in hilly areas to cover the increase in cost of construction of houses.
The allocation to Backward Region Grant Fund is being enhanced by 26 per cent from Rs.5,800 crore to Rs.7,300 crore. An additional Central assistance of Rs.1,200 crore is being provided for drought mitigation in the Bundelkhand region.
Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana gets 75 per cent increase in allocation from Rs.3,060 crore to Rs.5,400 crore. In addition, the allocation for Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation is also being raised from Rs.850 crore to Rs.1,000 crore in 2010-11.
The 1 per cent interest subvention on housing loans upto Rs.10 lakh (where the cost of the house does not exceed Rs.20 lakh) provided in the Budget for 2009-10 has been extended by another year.
Rajiv Awas Yojana, a scheme for housing to slum dwellers and urban poor, gets a huge jump in allocation from Rs.150 crore last year to Rs.1,270 crore in 2010-11.
It has been decided to set up a National Social Security Fund for unorganized sector workers with an initial allocation of Rs.1,000 crore. This fund will support schemes for weavers, toddy tappers, rickshaw pullers, bidi workers etc.
The Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Joyana is being extended to all Mahatma Gandhi NREGA beneficiaries who have worked for more than 15 days during the preceding financial year.
The Swavalamban initiative started last year, under which the government contributes Rs.1,000 per year to each New Pension Scheme (NPS) account, will now be available for another three years.
Plan outlay for Women and Child Development is being stepped up by 50 per cent. A Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana is being launched to meet the specific needs of women farmers.
The Plan outlay of Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment gets a boost of 80 per cent to Rs.4,500 crore. Besides supporting the programmes for the target beneficiaries, the Ministry will be able to raise the rates for scholarship schemes for SC and OBC students. Similarly, the Ministry of Minority Affairs allocation has been raised by 50 per cent to Rs.2,600 crore.
STRENGTHENING TRANSPARENCY AND PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY
The government proposes to set up a Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission to rewrite and clean up the financial sector laws to bring them in line with the requirements of the sector.
Rs.1,900 crore has been allocated for the Unique Identification Authority of India.
A Technology Advisory Group for Unique Projects (TAGUP) is proposed to be set up under the Chairmanship of Shri Nandan Nilekani for creation of reliable and secure IT projects.
Defence gets an allocation of Rs.1,47,344 crore. As a one time confidence building measure in Jammu and Kashmir about 2000 youths will be recruited as constable in five Central Para-Military forces in 2010. Adequate funds will be made available to support the action plan to be prepared by the Planning Commission for development of 33 left wing extremist affected districts.
An Independent Evaluation Office is to be set up to undertake impartial and objective assessment of various public programmes and improve the effectiveness of public interventions in Planning Commission.
A National Mission for Delivery of Justice and Legal Reforms is also to be set up.
TAX PROPOSALS
The Finance Minister emphasized the need for continued Tax Reforms. The Tax Returns form are being simplified and the Income Tax Department is now ready to notify Saral-2 forms for individual salary tax payers. The Sevottam project started in four cities to provide a single window system for registration and grievance redressal will be extended to four more cities. Two more centres will be opened for bulk processing of Tax Returns. The Indirect Tax Administrations are being revamped to achieve the roll out of Goods and Services Tax (GST). Rs.1133 crore have been budgeted for a mission mode project to achieve this.
Major relief has been provided to individual tax payers by enhancing exemption limit and reducing tax in different slabs of personal income.. Deduction of an additional amount of Rs.20000 for investment in long term infrastructure bonds will be available in addition to the existing limit of Rs.1 lakh available for specified savings.
The surcharge on domestic companies is being reduced from 10 per cent to 7.5 per cent. However, the minimum alternate tax (MAT) is being increased from 15 per cent to 18 per cent.
Exemptions and deductions have been provided to increase spending on research.
The investment linked deduction to new hotels of two star category and above is being extended to give boost to investment in Tourism sector.
A one time interim relief is being provided to the housing and real estate sector by allowing pending projects to be completed within a period of five years instead of four years for claiming a deduction on their profits.
The Finance Minister has proposed to partially roll back the rate deduction in Central Excise duties and enhance the standard rate on all non-petroleum products from 8 per cent to 10 per cent ad valorem. The specific rates of duty applicable to Portland cement and cement clinker are also being adjusted upwards proportionately. Similarly, the ad valorem component of excise duty on large cars, multi-utility vehicles and sports utility vehicles which was reduced as part of the first stimulus package, is being increased by 2 percentage points to 22 per cent.
The basic duty of 5 per cent on crude petroleum; 7.5 per cent on diesel and petrol and 10 per cent on other refined products is being enhanced. The Central Excise Duty on petrol and diesel is being enhanced by Rs.1 per litre.
Excise duty on non-smoking tobacco is being enhanced. In addition a compounded levy scheme is being introduced by chewing tobacco and branded unmanufactured tobacco based on the capacity of pouch making machines.
A number of duty concessions are being proposed to support agriculture and allied sector. Mechanised handling systems in warehouses will get project import status with a concessional import duty of 5 per cent. Installation and commissioning of such equipment will be fully exempt from service tax. Concessional duty will also be applicable for cold storages, food processing units, specified equipment for food preservation etc. The concessional import duty to specified machinery for use in the plantation sector is being further extended upto March 2011. Testing and certification of agricultural seed is being exempt from service tax.
Tax exemptions have been announced for equipment used in solar systems and wind energy system, LED lights, electric cars, cycle rickshaw, mobile phone components and certain medical equipment.
The rate of tax on services has been retained at 10 per cent.
BUDGET ESTIMATES
The Budget Estimates 2010-11 provides for a total expenditure of Rs. 11,08,749 crore. Out of this, Rs 3,73,092 crore is plan expenditure and Rs.7,35,657 crore is non-plan expenditure. The plan expenditure has increased by 15 per cent while there is only 6 per cent in increase in non-plan expenditure.
The total receipt are estimate Rs.7,46,651 crore.
The Fiscal deficit is pegged at 5.5 per cent. In the Medium Term Fiscal Policy Statement being presented along with other Budget documents in the House today, the rolling targets for fiscal deficit are pegged at 4.8 per cent and 4.1 per cent for 2011-12 and 2012-13, respectively. These projections improve upon the recommendations of the Thirteenth Finance Commission.

RAILWAY BUDGET 2010-11

2010-05-12T07:18:00.000-07:00

Highlights:
Ø No increase in passenger fares and freight tariffs
Ø Service charges on e-tickets reduced
Ø E-ticket vans to be extended to Government Medical College Hospitals, Courts, Universities, IT hubs, IITs and IIMs
Ø SMS updates of reservation status and movement of wagons
Ø Ticket centres to be opened at district headquarters and village panchayats
Ø 100% concession for cancer patients alongwith an escort
Ø Modern luggage trolleys with uniformed attendants to assist senior citizens and women passengers
Ø Six clean bottling plants to provide cheaper, clean drinking water to passengers
Ø 12 companies of women RPF personnel, ‘Mahila Vahini’, for the security of women passengers
Ø No examination fee for women, minority and economically backward class candidates for Railway Recruitment Boards’ exams
Ø Question papers now will be made available in local state languages besides Hindi, Urdu and English, examinations will be held on the same day in all regions
Ø 117 new train projects to be flagged off by the end of March 2010
Ø 52 long distance express trains and 28 passenger trains to be introduced
Ø Frequency of 12 trains will be increased and 21 trains will be extended
Ø Special trains to mark Rabindranath Tagore’s 150th birth anniversary, for ladies, for uniformed persons and for tourists
Ø Double-decker coaches to be introduced in two trains each from Delhi and Kolkata
Ø 94 stations to be upgraded as Adarsh Stations, 10 more stations to be upgraded as World Class Stations
Ø Automatic fire and smoke detection system to be introduced in 20 trains
Ø All the unmanned Level Crossings (LCs) to be manned within five years
Ø Rs.41,426 crore outlay proposed, allocation for new lines increased to Rs.2,848 crore from Rs.4,411 crore
Ø More money to improve passenger amenities – Rs.1,302 crore in comparision to Rs.923 crore in 2009-10
Ø Railway revenue through branding/advertising to go up from Rs.150 crore to Rs.1,000
Ø Special Task Force to clear investment proposals within 100 days
Ø Concession in freight charges for food-grains and domestic use kerosene
Ø Kisan Vision Project for manufacturing refrigerated containers
Ø Allotment of iron ore rakes would be accessible through the web. RFID technology to be introduced for tracking of wagons
Ø Multi-level parking complexes through PPP route
Ø 93 new multi-functional complexes to be developed
Ø National High Speed Rail Authority proposed to plan high speed rail corridor
Ø Houses for all rail employees in next 10 years
Ø 522 hospitals, 50 Kendriya Vidyalayas, 10 residential schools, model degree colleges, technical and management institutes for railway employees

RAILWAY BUDGET 2010-11
There will be no increase in the passenger fares of any class or category of trains. Freight tariffs will also remain the same for 2010-11. Service charges for e-tickets and freight charges for food-grains will be reduced. This was announced by the Minister of Railways, Kumari Mamata Banerjee in Parliament on 24 Feb 2010 while presenting Railway Budget for the new financial year.
Kumari Mamata Banerjee has proposed Rs.41,426 crore, the highest ever plan investment to provide efficient, customer focused and modern railway network. Out of this allocation, Rs.4,411 crore have been proposed to achieve the target of 1,000 kms. for new lines and Rs.1,302 crore for passenger amenities. The Plan would be financed through gross budgetary support of Rs.15,875 crore, Diesel Cess of Rs.877 crore, internal resources of Rs,14,523 crore and EBR of Rs.10,151 crore including market borrowing through IRFC of Rs.9,120 crore.
Presenting the Railway Budget for 2010-11 in Parliament on 24 Feb 2010, the Minister said that the Railway is committed to take up socially desirably projects connecting backward areas of the country. Surveys for 114 projects for such areas will be updated and surveys for 55 new lines will be taken up during the year. She said that 800 km. Gauge Conversion and 700 km of doubling the rail line will be achieved during the year besides a number of new projects on cost sharing with state governments or through PPP route. She also proposed 52 new train services to meet increasing demand of passengers, increase in frequency of 12 train services, extension of 21 trains and introduction of some special trains.
Reiterating the Government’s commitment to provide efficient railway network within the reach of common man, Kumari Mamata Banerjee said that the target has been set to add 25,000 km of new lines in next 10 years. A Special Task Force to clear proposals for investments within 100 days will be set up, policy guidelines will be made easy, simple and investment friendly so that business community can join hands to build partnership with the Railways. But the Minister clarified that this does not mean that Railway is going for privatization, it will remain a Government organization, she asserted.
Highlighting the initiatives taken recently, Railway Minister said that within a span of 7 months, significant achievements have been made. She announced that out of 120 new trains, extensions and increase in frequencies announced in last budget, 117 would be flagged off by the end of 2010. Special drive for improving passenger amenities and cleanliness has been taken up. The Catering Policy is under revision to provide better food, six bottling plants to be set up to provide clean drinking water. 94 new stations will be developed as Adarsh Stations and 10 more stations will be upgraded as World Class Stations. She also announced construction of another 93 Multi-functional Complexes and to develop multi-level parking complex through PPP route.
Declaring that passenger amenities is a very high priority of the Government, she said that a number of initiatives are being taken for this purpose. SMS updates of reservation status and movements of wagons to freight customers is being initiated. Double-decker train-sets matching the best in global standards will be introduced in two trains each from Delhi and Kolkata as a pilot project. Modern trolleys at all important stations with uniformed attendants will be introduced to assist senior citizens and women passengers for carrying their luggage. Mobile vans for issuing e-tickets will be extended to government medical college hospitals, High Courts, District Court, University campus, IT hubs, IITs and IIMs. The Railway Minister announced that railway reservation ticket centres will also be opened at district headquarters and village panchayats to give more facility to common man.
In order to bring more transparency in freight business, the Railway Minister announced RFID technology will be introduced for tracking of wagons, allotment of the rakes would be accessible through the web.
Highlighting efforts being made for safety and security of the passenger, Kumari Mamata Banerjee said that the railway is developing crashworthy coaches and locomotives and will provide automatic fire and smoke detection system in 20 pairs of long-distance trains as pilot project. Manning of further 1,000 level crossing will be taken up during the budget year. She announced that in coming five years, all the unmanned level crossing will be manned. 12 companies of women RPF, ‘Mahila Vahini’ will be raised for security of women passengers.
The Railway Minister said that as assured, recruitment policy of Railway Recruitment Boards has been reviewed. Now onwards, question papers will be made available in local state languages also besides Hindi, Urdu and English, examination will be held simultaneously by all RRBs for a particular post. She also announced waiving of examination fee for women candidates and those belonging to minority and economically backward classes.
Reiterating her commitment for the welfare of railway employees, she said that a new scheme "House for All" will provide residence to all railway employees in the next 10 years with the help of Ministry of Urban Development. 522 hospitals and diagnostic centres, 50 Kendriya Vidyalayas, 10 residential schools on the pattern of Navodaya Vidyalaya, model degree colleges and technical and management institutions of national importance will be set up for the benefit of railway employees. She also proposed extension of ‘Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana’ to all licenced porters, vendors and hawkers. She also proposed setting up a Railway Cultural and Heritage Promotion Board and Shambhu Mitra Cultural Complex at Howrah for the employee. Rabindra Museum at Howrah and Gitanjali Museum at Bolpur are also proposed to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, she said.
In order to upgrade railway infrastructure, the Minister said that a centre for Railway Research will be set up at IIT, Kharagpur for research in key areas of railway technology and a state-of-the art advanced loco pilot training centre at Kharagpur and an advanced railway track training centre at Beleghata. To overcome of the shortage of coaches, new coach factories are being set up at Rae Bareilly, Kancharapara and Palakkad. A wagon repair shop will be set up at Badnera and a new Rail Axle Factory will be set up at New Jalpaiguri through PPP or Joint Venture mode. Besides 5 state-of-the-art wagon factories also through joint venture and PPP mode at Sikandrabad, Barddhaman, Bhubneshwar/Kalahandi, Guwahati and Haldia.
Kumari Mamata Bangerjee also announced ‘Kisan Vision Project’ for manufacturing refrigerated container for carrying agricultural products so that farmers are not forced for distress sale of their produce.
Proposing several new initiatives for freight business, the Minister said that Railways will introduce a modified wagon investment scheme for high capacity general purpose and special purpose wagons for carrying iron ore, coal and cement. A scheme to run special freight train by private operators for commodities such as automobiles, vegetable oil, molasses, chemicals and petrochemicals will be notified. A premium Tatkal Service for parcel and freight movement besides special wagons for iron ore, fly ash, automobiles will also be introduced.
Reiterating Railways’ commitment for time bound completion of dedicated corridors, the Minister said preliminary Engineering-cum-Traffic Surveys for North-South, East-West, East-South and South-South corridors will be taken up this year. She also said that Railways is also working on high speed passenger rail corridors, a National High Speed Rail Authority will be set up for planning, standard setting and implementing these projects.
In order to promote industrial activity, Kumari Mamata Banerjee said that Railways would welcome investment through PPP mode for providing rail connectivity to important ports. Additional 2,000 kms. routes will be electrified within two years. Work on adding another 12,000 kms. in existing Optical Fibre Cable network of the Railways is in progress. The balance 15,000 kms. is proposed to be taken through PPP mode, thus covering entire railway network.
Announcing upgradation and modernization of Kolkata Metro, the only Metro with Indian Railways, the Minister said that Metro Station at Park Circus, Maidan, M.G. Road, Chandni Chowk and Rash Behari will be remodeled and network will be extended at four sections. The Railway Minister also announced augmentation of sub-urban train services in Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata.
Kumari Mamata Banerjee proposed special trains – Sanskriti Express, across the country, to mark 150th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, Matribhoomi Express trains for ladies in Kolkata, Chennai, New Delhi and Mumbai and Karmabhoomi trains, unreserved trains for common people between Darbhanga-Mumbai, Guwahati-Mumbai and New Jalpaiguri-Amritsar. Similarly, Janmabhoomi Trains specially for uniformed persons, between Ahmedabad and Udhampur, Bharat Tirth Trains for tourists connecting popular sites in different parts of the country will be introduced during the year.
The Railway Minister also proposed four new Durontos trains between Chandigarh and Amritsar, between Chennai and Coimbatore, between Puri and Howrah and between Howrah and Digha.
To reiterate her commitment for the common man, Kumari Mamata Banerjee announced that there will be no increase in passenger fares of any class and in freight tariffs. In spite of tight resource position, the Railways has also proposed to reduce an amount of Rs.100 per wagon in freight charges for food-grains and domestic use of kerosene as a gesture to common man.
The Minister also announced reduction of service charges maximum to Rs.10 for Sleeper Class and Rs.20 for AC Class. She also announced 100 per cent concession for cancer patients going for treatment together with an escort in AC 3 class. Technicians of regional film industry when traveling for film production related work will also be eligible for 75% concession in second sleeper and 50% concession on other classes in all trains. The Minister also announced that concession under Izzat scheme, for press correspondents and students of madrasas will continue.

Economic Survey 2009-10 : Highlights

2010-05-12T05:58:00.000-07:00

* Economy posted a remarkable recovery expected to grow at 7.2 per cent in 2009-10 against 6.7 per cent in 2008-09. Survey hopes the Indian GDP can be expected to grow around 8.5+/- 0.25 per cent, with a full recovery, breaching the 9 per cent mark in 2011-12.
* Manufacturing growth more than doubled to 8.9 per cent in 2009-10 from 3.2 per cent in 2008-09.
* Survey recognizes food inflation as major concern.
* Per capita income increased to 5.3 per cent in 2009-10 from 3.7 per cent in 2008-09.
* Gross Fiscal deficit stands at 6.5 per cent of GDP.
* Liquidity condition remained comfortable during 2009-10.
* Bank credit grows by 13.9 per cent on year-on-year basis. Non-food bank credit recorded an increase of 8.7 per cent on financial year basis till January 15, 2010 as per the latest available data.
* Agricultural credit disbursal exceeds target. At sectoral level, there has been a rebound in the growth rate of investment in the agricultural sector, which grew at 16.5 per cent and 26.0 per cent in 2007-08 and 2008-09 respectively against 1.4 per cent recorded in 2006-07.
* Investment Deposit Ratio increases to 32.52 per cent.
* Balance of Payment situation improves due to surge in capital flows and rise in foreign exchange reserves, which have been accompanied by rupee appreciation.
* Net capital flows to India at US$ 29.6 billion in April-September 2009 remained higher as compared to US$ 12.0 billion in April-September 2008.
* During fiscal 2009-10, foreign exchange reserves increased by US$ 31.5 billion from US$ 252.0 billion in end March 2009 to US$ 283.5 billion in end December 2009.
* Recommendations of the Thirteen Finance Commission needs to be taken on board in shaping the fiscal policy for 2010-11 and in the medium term.
* Momentum in telecommunication sector continues with monthly additions exceeding 17.6 million connections.
* Share of central government expenditure on social services including rural development, in total expenditure, plan and non-plan gone up to 19.46 per cent in 2009-10 which was only 10.46 per cent in 2003-04.

Economic Survey 2009-10

2010-05-12T04:47:00.000-07:00

The Economic Survey presented to Parliament says that the economy has bounced back from the global economic slowdown and is on its way to the growth path of 9 per cent. The CSO estimate of 7.2 per cent GDP growth for 2009-10 reflects the fast paced recovery given the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) posting a record 16.8 per cent year-on-year growth during the month of December 2009.

The Survey says that the economy has responded well to the policy measures undertaken in the wake of global financial crisis. It says, the adverse impact due to the delayed and sub-normal monsoon has been contained to a large extent and a better than average rabi agricultural season is expected. The Survey says that the recovery is well founded with pick up in merchandise exports, capital flows and non-bank food credit.

The turnaround came in the second quarter of 2009-10 when the economy grew by 7.9 per cent, year-on-year basis. The CSO estimates forecast 7.2 per cent growth in GDP with industrial output growing at 8.2 per cent and service sector at 8.7 per cent. The recovery is particularly impressive despite a decline of 0.2 per cent in agriculture output primarily due to sub-normal monsoon. The Survey says, the broad based nature of the recovery creates scope for a gradual roll back, in due course, of some of the measures undertaken over the last 15 to 18 months to put the economy back on the growth path of 9 per cent.

The Survey expresses concern over the emergence of high double-digit food inflation especially in the second half. Food price inflation stood at 17.9 percent for the week ended January 30, 2010 while the inflation in fuel, power, light and lubricant at 10.4 per cent. It says that the significant part of this inflation can be explained by supply side bottlenecks in some essential commodities. Since December 2009, there have been signs of these high food prices, together with hardening of non-administered fuel prices, getting transmitted to other non-food items. This has created some concerns for higher than anticipated generalized inflation over the next few months.

The recovery in GDP growth as indicated in the CSO advance estimates is broad- based with 7 out of 8 sectors/sub-sectors showing a growth rate of 6.5 per cent or higher. The per capita growth in income has recovered to 5.3 per cent in 2009-10 from 3.7 per cent in the previous year. The per capita consumption growth as reflected in the private final consumption expenditure shows a declining trend since 2007-08.

The Survey says that the country received 23 per cent less rainfall during the south-west monsoon 2009 but some of the shortfall was made up during the post monsoon season when the country received 8 per cent excess rainfall. Kharif 2009-10 season showed a decline of nearly 6.5 per cent in acreage with the entire decline confined to rice crop. While the decline in Kharif acreage under pulses was 5.63 per cent, some of this decline has been made up in the rabi season. As per the available estimates, wheat, pulses and groundnut have seen an increase in acreage as compared to last year.

The growth of broad money (M3) has moderated from around 21 per cent in the beginning of fiscal year to 16.5 per cent by mid January 2010 and it has remained below the indicated growth projection. While in the first half of the year, credit to the Government remained the key driver of money growth, it has moderated since the third quarter of 2009-10. The Survey says that since the outbreak of the global financial crisis in 2008, the RBI has followed an accommodative monetary policy supporting early recovery of the growth momentum. This has also facilitated the unprecedented borrowing requirement of the Government to fund its fiscal deficit. Nearly two third of the borrowing of the Government was completed in the first half of the fiscal year which not only helped in checking pressure on interest rate but also created space for the revival of private investment demand in the second half of the year. The fiscal expansion undertaken by the central government as a part of the policy response to counter the impact of global slowdown has resulted in increased fiscal deficit from 2.6 per cent in 2007-08 to 6.5 per cent in the Budget Estimates for 2009-10.

The Survey says that the recommendations of the Thirteen Finance Commission have to be taken on board in shaping the fiscal policy for 2010-11 and in the medium term. The Finance Commission has recommended a calibrated exit strategy from the expansionary fiscal stance of 2008-09 and 2009-10. It has also suggested that the revenue deficit of the centre needs to be progressively reduced and eliminated followed by emergence of revenue surplus by 2014-15.

The Survey notes with satisfaction that several factors that have emerged from the performance of the economy in the last 12 months augur well for the Indian economy. The gross domestic savings as a percentage of GDP stands at 32.5 per cent in 2008-09 while the gross domestic capital formation stands at 34.9 per cent. These figures compare favourably with some of the fastest growing economies. It also underlines the significance of the presence of Indian corporations in the global market place. The Survey is hopeful that the economy will go back to 9 per cent growth rate in the medium term. This follows the revival in investment and private consumption demand impressive growth in exports in November and December and remarkable turn around in Core infrastructure sector. It says, after a set back agriculture is gradually getting back to the projected path and with a reasonable one per cent additional growth in GDP coupled with recovery of global economy, the Indian GDP can be expected to grow around 8.5 per cent +/-0.25 per cent. With full recovery the economy can breach the 9 per cent mark in 2011-12. Given the steadily improving fundamentals of the economy, the Survey says, if there are improvements in infrastructure, both urban and rural, and reform in governance and administration, it is possible for India to move into double-digit growth and even become the fastest growing economy in the world within next four years.

FREE! Download India Year Book 2010 in English and Hindi medium

2010-01-15T03:34:00.000-08:00

Hello friends,We hope you have started your IAS preparation very seriously. Below are the links of very important reference manual INDIA YEARBOOK 2010, published by Govt. of India. Please download this book from the link below and include it your studies.
Click the below link to get the free book!

In English Medium
http://www.publicationsdivision.nic.in/others/India_2010.pdf

In Hindi Medium
http://www.publicationsdivision.nic.in/others/Bharat_2010.pdf

Please keep in touch with Career Quest for all updates and study material for Civil Services (IAS) Preparation.

Best wishes!

Year End Review 2008 Ministry of Tourism and Culture

2008-12-31T03:52:00.000-08:00

Major initiatives and Achievements in the year 2008

1. Statistics of Growth in the current year:
The foreign tourist arrivals (FTA) to India up to the month of November 2008 increased by 8.0% over the arrivals for the same period in 2007. The cumulative arrival figures for the period January to November 2008 reached 4.84 million. During the period, world witnessed 2-3% increase in foreign tourist arrivals.

The foreign exchange earnings (FEE) from the tourism sector were Rs.45647.00 crores during the period January-November 2008, an increase of 16.2% over the corresponding period in 2007. The important source countries were US, UK, Canada, France, Germany and Japan.

2. Infrastructure Development:
Infrastructure Development holds the key to India’s sustained growth in the tourism sector. Therefore, the Ministry of Tourism has been making efforts to develop quality tourism infrastructure at tourist destinations and circuits. The Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned 91 projects for an amount of Rs.503.56 crore for infrastructure augmentation including rural tourism projects in the year 2008-09 (up to November 08).

The Ministry has launched a scheme for development of nationally and internationally important destinations and circuits through Mega Projects. To date 22 mega projects have already been identified and of these 17 projects have been sanctioned. In the year alone the Ministry has sanctioned 11 mega projects at Amritsar, Bhubaneshwar-Puri-Chilka, Tirupati (Nellore-Chittor), Dwarka, Haridwar-Rishikesh, Vidarbha Heritage Circuit, Hampi, Gangtok, Kadapa, Mahabalipuram and Ganga Heritage Cruise Circuit. The mega projects are a judicious mix of culture, heritage, spiritual and ecotourism in order to give tourists a holistic perspective.

Ministry of Tourism is also taking initiatives with other Central Govt. Ministries, such as Railways, Civil Aviation, Road Transport & Highways, Food Processing and Urban Development and also the concerned State Governments to achieve convergence and synergy with their programmes so that the impact of investment on these destinations is maximized.

Based on continuous coordination and interaction, 6 tourism sites - Agra, Varanasi, Gangtok, Bhubaneswar, Aurangabad and Hyderabad are being developed as mega destinations through the joint plans of all the key Ministries of Government of India.

With the loan assistance of JBIC, the Ajanta Ellora Conservation and Tourism Development Project (Phase-II) is under implementation.

3. Sustainable Tourism:
The true potential of tourism lies in adopting responsible and sustainable practices on both the demand and supply sides of the tourism chain, enabling an effective response to climate change. This is closely interlinked with inclusive growth through sustainable community participation.

This ‘sustainable’ tourism route has been adopted by the Ministry of Tourism in the innovative Rural Tourism Project, by strengthening the disadvantaged but skilled rural artisan communities through support to capacity building and vernacular infrastructure, while laying emphasis on the role of women. In furtherance of these objectives and achievements, Ministry of Tourism in association with UNDP and key stakeholders in the tourism industry organised four regional conferences on Sustainable Tourism for Inclusive Growth at Shillong, Chennai, Bhopal and Cochin.
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, was winner of the prestigious “World Travel Award 2008” for its role in developing and promotion of "Responsible Tourism” at the Award ceremony held in WTM London.

In addition, Mega shopping festivals are also being organized in cities of different regions of the country such as Bhubaneswar, Hyderabad, Aurangabad and Noida where artisans and artists from rural tourism sites would be given a platform for exhibition and sale of their handicraft products and for cultural performances. This kind of exposure to the domestic and international tourists would have far reaching benefits for the socio-economic development of the rural artisans.

Ministry of Tourism on its part has taken several initiatives to make tourism services accessible to the differently-abled. Ministry of Tourism has requested all the State Governments to ensure implementation of the guidelines to provide barrier free environment at the destinations in the tourism infrastructure projects implemented with the assistance of the Ministry of Tourism. It is now mandatory for 4 star, 5star & 5 star deluxe hotels to have special facilities for physically challenged guests. These rules are now in the process of being extended to other categories of hotels. Steps have also been taken to make destinations/tourist places more accessible to the disabled.

The Ministry of Tourism has introduced an Award of Excellence from the current year for Most Disabled Friendly Monument / Tourist Attraction in the Annual National Tourism Awards.

4. Overseas Marketing and Promotion:
The Ministry has consistently been working on a two pronged strategy for marketing of Incredible India brand. The strategy includes visible branding in the outdoor media such as advertising at airports, on trams, taxis and buses and through the print, online and electronic media, as well as through participation in Travel Marts and Road Shows. For promotion of Indian Cuisine, which is an integral component of the Indian Tourism product, support has been extended to Indian Food Festivals organized in various countries. With a view to ensuring that limitation of language does not hamper promotional activities, publicity is being undertaken in local languages for better impact e.g. in Spanish, Chinese, French, etc.

Hospitality has been extended to about 595 guests, including media personnel, travel agents and tour operators. These guests were also invited to cover important events such as SATTE 2008, Himalayan Run & Trek Event, as well as on Fam Tours on the Special Buddhist Tourist Train and the Deccan Odyssey Tourist Train. IBSA Workshop, Great Indian Travel Bazar, KTM-2008, PATA-2008 and Dedication ceremony of Kalka-Shimla World Heritage Train.

Ministry of Tourism finalized the launch of 7 International Campaigns viz. Americas-Print; Europe-Print; APAC-Print, Global Print; Americas-TV, Europe-TV and APAC-TV to tape the potential visitors/cliental and to establish Incredible India Brand in the important tourist generating markets.

Major activities of India Tourism Offices Overseas were
i. Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and CII organized an “Incredible India @60” event in Singapore from 4th to 7th April 2008. The event was inaugurated by the Minister for Tourism and Culture Smt. Ambika Soni. The activities and programmes organized during the event included cultural performances from different regions of India, demonstration and display of Indian handicrafts especially by artisans from rural tourism sites, photographic exhibition on India and an India Evening. Extensive promotion and marketing through print and outdoor advertising was undertaken to coincide with the event.
ii. The Ministry of Tourism opened its Office in Beijing on 7th April 2008. The office was inaugurated by the Minister for Tourism and Culture Smt. Ambika Soni. To mark the occasion, Incredible India Cultural Evenings were organized in Beijing on 7th April 2008 and in Shanghai on 9th April 2008, which showcased India’s classical dance, music and cuisine.
iii. The Ministry of Tourism participated in 14th World Travel Market (WTM) 2008 held at Excel, London from 10th-13th November 2008 with participation of 77 co -exhibitors in the Pavilion which included 16 State Governments / UTs and 61 Travel Agents / Tour Operators / Hotels / Airlines.
iv. India Tourism offices overseas have participated in 140 Travel Fairs and Exhibitions in important tourist generating markets the world over as well as in emerging and potential markets to showcase and promote the tourism products of the country. These include the major international Travel Fairs such as the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, and World Travel Market (WTM) in London.

6. PATA Travel Mart 2008:
India successfully hosted the PATA Travel Mart 2008 in Hyderabad from September 16 to 19, 2008. Approximately 1,089 trade delegates, comprising 374 global buyers from 324 organizations and 715 Asia Pacific seller delegates from 301 organizations participated in the Travel Mart.

India accounted for the largest contingent of sellers, representing about 28% of the exhibitors at the Travel Mart, with the remaining 72% being international exhibitors from the Asia Pacific Region. As host destination, India provided the largest single-source market buyer contingent, with strong growth coming from China (PRC), which will host next year's Mart in Hangzhou.

In addition to the business sessions, hosted dinners with entertainment programmes, lunches, sightseeing tours and golf games provide multiple opportunities for delegates to savour the culture and cuisine of the country as well as the tourist sites of Hyderabad. Delegates also availed attractive specially designed pre and post mart tours to different regions of the country.

7. Promotion of Domestic Tourism:
To promote domestic tourism in the country and to create social awareness among the masses, various domestic campaigns have been launched during the current year in leading print publications, TV and radio channels. Ministry of Tourism has launched 4 Domestic Media Campaigns viz. Adventure and Wildlife, Jammu & Kashmir, Rural Tourism and North East in the current year.
Noted film actor, Sh. Aamir Khan will be brand ambassador of the Ministry of Tourism for the Incredible India Social Awareness Campaign called “Atithi Devo Bhava”. The mass appeal of the noted actor will further boost the Tourism Ministry’s efforts to make people aware about the safety and security of the tourists, hygiene, sanitation and vandalisation of historical monuments. Safeguarding of our rich heritage while promoting tourism is an important issue and the association of Sh. Aamir Khan will definitely bring desired results.

8. Hotel Infrastructure:
Ministry of Tourism estimated that there is a shortage of 1, 50,000 hotel rooms by 2010 all over the country. It is also estimated that 30,000 hotel rooms would be required in the NCR for the Commonwealth Games 2010. Keeping this in view, Ministry of Tourism has already initiated action by taking up the matter with Ministry of Urban Development, DDA and State Governments.

Due to the efforts of the Ministry of Tourism, the Finance Ministry has announced a 5 year Tax Holiday under Section 80-ID to hotels of 2, 3 and 4 star category and Convention Centres which will be coming up between 1.4.2007 to 31.3.2010 in the districts of Faridabad, Gurgaon, Gautam Budh Nagar (NOIDA) and Ghaziabad.

The Ministry of Tourism also successfully persuaded the Finance Ministry in announcing in the budget of 2008-09, a five year holiday from income tax to two, three or four star hotels established in specified districts which have UNESCO-declared 'World Heritage Sites'. The hotels should be constructed and start functioning during the period April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2013.

The growth of newer niche tourism products viz. rural tourism, eco-tourism, adventure tourism and camp tourism etc. has seen the emergence of a new segment of tented accommodation which provides an altogether new experience. The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has introduced a voluntary scheme for project approval and classification of operational Tented Accommodation in the country and guidelines for the same has been issued.

9. Quality Human Resource Development:
It is estimated that to cater for the growing need of the hospitality sector, over 203 thousand hospitality trained manpower would be required annually, therefore, it has been the endeavour of the Ministry of Tourism to put in place a system of training and professional education with necessary infrastructural support, capable of generating manpower to meet the needs of the tourism and hospitality industry, both quantitatively and qualitatively.

The Ministry actively pursued its efforts to create institutional infrastructure for the training of manpower to meet the growing demand of the industry. The Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs has approved the revised guidelines for the scheme of assistance to Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Food Craft Institutes (FCIs) including setting up of 19 state IHMs and 25 state FCIs. The Ministry of Tourism has already sanctioned FCIs at Hoshiarpur in Punjab and Muzaffarpur in Bihar in the current financial year.

The CCEA also approved the policy of broad basing hospitality education to ITIs, vocational schools, polytechnics, universities and colleges to meet the growing demand of trained manpower in hospitality sector.

10. International Cooperation:
International Cooperation through tourism has been a hall mark of the Ministry’s efforts to reach out.
At the ASEAN India Tourism Minister’s Conference earlier this year, there was a very positive response to India’s initiative for launching the India ASEAN website, as also to the initiative in organizing a Workshop for travel agents from ASEAN countries, called ‘Beyond Boundaries’.
To strengthen Cooperation between India and China, Ministry of Tourism opened its India Tourism Office in Beijing.
Another international forum in which there is progress is the IBSA dialogue forum between India, Brazil and South Africa. An IBSA Workshop was organized in Kochi on September 21, 2008, which provided an opportunity for Tour Operators from Brazil and South Africa to interact with their Indian counterparts and deliberate on issues related to the promotion of tourism between the three countries. A total of 26 Tour Operators from Brazil and South Africa participated in this workshop. The IBSA Workshop was preceded by a Joint Working Group Meeting on Tourism, in which members agreed to finalization of the tripartite agreement for cooperation in the tourism sector. This Agreement was subsequently signed at the IBSA Summit held in New Delhi on October 15, 2008.
The Minister of Tourism and Culture, Smt. Ambika Soni Chaired the 84th Session of the Executive Council of United Nations World Tourism Organization which was held in Madrid, Spain on 14-15 October 2008 in her capacity as the Chairperson of the Executive Council.

11. New Initiatives
i. Cruise Tourism: Cruise Tourism is a relatively new but an emerging sector with a high potential for growth. With the approval of the Cruise Tourism Policy, the huge potential of this tourism product has been opened up. Together with the Port Trust Authorities and the State Governments, the Ministry is now focusing on infrastructure development as well as motivating cruise operators to make cruises operational. Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned Rs.14.50 crore in the current year for development of tourist infrastructure in Willingdon Island – Cochin port.

ii. Adventure Tourism: Adventure tourism has immense potential for growth. For experiencing the different types of adventure tourism right from rock climbing, river rafting, para gliding, mountaineering and under water diving, the Ministry has been sanctioning projects to different States. The South Asian Winter Games being organized in Feb. 2009 in Uttarakhand marks the beginning of several such events which will bring India to the International Adventure Tourism platform.

iii. Wellness Tourism: India, as the world knows, is a Wellness destination. The potential of wellness systems, developed through centuries of wisdom of this ancient civilization would be fully tapped. This is being done by positioning India as a centre of Ayurveda, Yoga, Siddha, Naturopathy, etc. together with the spiritual philosophy that was integral to the Indian way of life. The Ministry of Tourism has highlighted wellness in a big way through publicity and promotional activities.

12. International Recognition:
The success of the Incredible India Media Campaigns won India wide spread international recognition in the field of tourism.

Conde Nast Traveller, UK in its Readers Travel Awards 2008 has ranked India among the top 2 most favoured countries in the world, consecutively for the second year.
India received the award for the leading destination at the Asia World Travel Awards 2008-“Asia and Indian Ocean” Ceremony, in Shanghai, China.
Bronze Lion Award was won at the 55th International Advertising Festival held at Cannes, France for the creative on the ‘Taj Mahal’ which was used for Ministry of Tourism’s Incredible India Campaign in the international market.
PC World adjudged the website of the Ministry of Tourism (www.incredibleindia.org) a winner of the PC World Web Award 2008.
The prestigious “World Travel Award 2008” for its role in developing and promotion of "Responsible Tourism” at 14th World Travel Market (WTM) 2008 held at Excel, London from 10th-13th November 2008.

15. Ministry of Tourism’s efforts to counter the financial melt-down:
The period January to June of the current year recorded an 11.5 % increase in FTAs and 22.2 % increase in FEES (in $ terms) as compared to the corresponding period last year. However, the impact of the global economic melt down started manifesting itself subsequently with the dips in growth of FTAs o 8% and FEEs to 13.3 % by November.

To discuss the Industry problems as a fall out of the recent terrorist attacks in Mumbai as well as issues affecting the industry due to the ongoing financial melt-down, the National Tourism Advisory Council (NTAC) and the stakeholders met on December 15, under the chairpersonship of Minister of Tourism and Culture Smt. Ambika Soni and in presence of the Minister of State for Tourism and Culture Smt Kanti Singh.

During the deliberations, it was decided to form a committee of representatives of trade associations and officers of the concerned ministries to look for ways by which the visitors experience at important heritage monuments can be improved. Another committee was formed to look into the civil aviation related issues like chartered flights.

The following steps were taken to protect the Indian Tourism Industry from the global meltdown:
Strengthening the Market Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme
Organizing Familiarization Tours for Overseas Media and Travel Trade Representatives:
Incentives to repeat visitors
Subsidy to the trade and state governments for participation in international travel fairs and exhibitions:
Extending the benefit of the Marketing Development Assistance Scheme of the Ministry to active Members of India Convention Promotion Bureau (ICPB):
Organization of Travel Mart in April, 2009 – the Great India Travel Bazaar in Jaipur in association with the State Governments and all stakeholders.
2009 is being promoted as Visit India Year where attractive incentives are being worked out.

The status of the Travel Advisories issued by major tourist generating countries is being reviewed on regular basis to take suitable measures.

The Ministry of Tourism has also undertaken the confidence building measures to minimize the negative impact on tourism by putting up the security updates for foreign tourists in its website, liaising with Indian Missions, travel industry and media in overseas.

1. 16. Achievements of ITDC:
ITDC has undertaken the renovation of Ashok Hotel, Delhi, and Renovation of other hotels in Delhi has also been planned for providing them the competitive edge in their respective categories.
The turnover of ITDC upto November 2008 was Rs. 289.02 crore as against Rs. 259.38 crore during the same period last year, representing an increase of 11.43 %. The ITDC earned a net profit of Rs.40.87 crore upto November 2008 as against Rs.39.88 crore during the same period last year, representing 2.48 % increase.

Year End Review Ministry of Environment and Forests

2008-12-31T03:49:00.000-08:00

Afforestation Programme approve 783 projects
Treat 1.51 Million Hactare Land through 30,000 JFMCs
PHASE-OUT CFCs, 17 MONTHS AHEAD OF MONTREAL PROTOCOL SCHEDULE
Afforestation Programme
The National Afforestation Programme has approved 783 projects under National Eco-development Board (NAEB) programme at a total cost of Rs. 2495 Crores .This will treat a total area of 1.51 million hectares through 29368 JFMCs (since inception of the programme).The NAEB, has been implementing this major programme through the Forest Development Agencies (FDAs) at the forest division level and the Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at the village level. The programme aims at regeneration of degraded forests and adjoining areas with the cooperation of the local communities. The revised guidelines of the National afforestation programme have been approved by Expenditure Finance Committee(EFC) and are in final stage of approval.

Indira Priyadashini Vrikshamitra Awards (IPVMs) has been restructured to reflect the importance and prestige by the number of categories from 12 to 4 and enhancing the prize amount to 2.5 lakh in each category. Besides these awards have been instituted for States/ UTs which contribute maximum in enhancing the forest and tree cover of the country based on State of Forest Report of the Forest Survey of India. These awards would carry a cash benefit of Rs.10 lakh/5 lakh/ 3 lakh.

Seven pilot projects (one Forest Development agency in each region) are being implemented for development of micro- enterprise based on forest resources. Two new Eco Task Force Battalions have started implementing the afforestation programme in Assam.

Ozone Cell
India has completely phased-out the production of CFCs with effect from 1st August 2008, 17 months ahead of Montreal Protocol schedule. Besides this, use of virgin CFCs in all applications except in Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs) manufacturing has been phased out. MDIs are essential for treatment of Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients. The Executive Committee of the Protocol (ExCom) approved a project for Gradual Phase-out of CFC production in India at a total cost of US $ 82 million.

The ExCom had approved 299 projects with a funding of US $ 349 million for phasing-out approximately 23000 Ozone Depleting Potential (ODP) tonnes in consumption and 25000 ODP tonnes in production sectors.

In the consumption sector, 295 projects covering about 755 enterprises in the aerosol, foam, halon, refrigeration and air-conditioning and solvent sectors have been assisted in the change over to non- ODS technology of which a large number of projects have already been completed and others are at various stages of completion.

A national Halon Production Closure Project has been approved at a total cost of US $ 2.3 million which has already been disbursed to the two producers.

A National Phase-out Plan of CTC in Production and Consumption sectors in India has been approved at a total cost of US $ 52 million. This aims to reduce the production and consumption of CTC by 85% in 2005 and 100% by 2010.

Under the National CFC Consumption Phase-out Plan (NCCoPP) in India focusing on the Refrigeration Servicing Sector, India will phase-out the consumption of all Annex A Group I substances (CFCs) in the Refrigeration Servicing sector by 1st January 2010. More than 10000 technicians have already been trained on good servicing practices and alternative technologies in refrigeration and a large number of them have been provided equipment support to use in the field and reduce the use of CFCs as well as alternatives to CFCs in servicing.

Intiatives/Decisions
During 54th to 56th meeting of the Ex-Com of the MLF, US$ 9.7 million were approved for implementation of 2008 Annual Work Programs of CFC Production Sector Phase-out Project, National CFC Consumption Phase-out Plan (NCCoPP), CTC National Phase-out Plan.

A historic decision was taken at the 19th MOP held in September, 2007 at Montreal to accelerate the phase-out of HCFCs by ten years. A comprehensive Road Map to phase-out of production and consumption of HCFCs in various sectors in India has been developed in 2008.

The 56th Meeting of the Ex-Com of the MLF for Implementation of the Montreal Protocol which was held in Doha, Qatar during last November, 2008, important decisions relevant to India were taken .They include:

The Ex-Com approved US $ 573,750 for preparation of HCFC Phase-out Plan for the Stage I (2013 Freeze and 10% reduction of the baseline) in India.

A proposal for an amount of US$10.2 million for funding National Strategy for Transition to Non CFC MDIs and Plan for Phase-out of CFCs in the Manufacturing of Pharmaceutical MDIs in India has been approved. It also approved the revised agreement for accelerated phase-out of CFCs production with a funding of US $3.17 million which will be paid as compensation to the four CFC producers. The production of CFCs has already ceased as on 1st August 2008.

The Fourteenth International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer was celebrated in Delhi on 16th September, 2008. The theme of this year’s International Ozone Day was “Montreal Protocol – Global Partnership for global benefits”.On this occasion poster, painting, skit competitions were organized among school children. Prizes for the best 3 in each competition were given. The publication “Montreal Protocol: India’s Success Story” was released and distributed to the participants on this occasion.

Fiscal and Regulatory Measures
Customs duty exemption have been extended for MLF assisted ODS phase-out projects or expansion of capacity with non-ODS technology during the year 2008. Trade in ODS with non-Parties to the Protocol has been banned. All ODSs have brought under the ambit of licensing for purpose of both imports and exports. Exports of CFCs to non- article 5 Parties has also been banned.

Year End Review2008 INDIAN RAILWYS

2008-12-31T03:43:00.000-08:00

STRIDES OF PROGRESS IN 2008
INDIAN RAILWYS TAKE LEAD TO BOOST INDIAN ECONOMY
FIRST EVER TRAIN SERVICE IN KASHMIR VALLEY
REVENUE GENERATION GOES UP BY 13.93 PER CENT
RAILWAYS ENTER LONG TERM AGREEMENT FOR COAL TRANSPORTATION TO FACILITATE POWER GENERATION
FIRST EVER RAILWAYMAN WINS OLYMPIC MEDAL

In its endeavour to become world’s No.1 rail transport network, the Indian Railways during the past few years have registered an unprecedented turnaround in its fortunes that has helped launch itself towards a path of gigantic growth and development, keeping in view the future transportation needs of the economy. Milestones have been bettered and sights set on newer ones, especially those that beckon it during the 11th Plan period such as the freight loading target of 1100 million tonnes during that period. The year 2008 has been significant for the Railways in achieving goals and targets with regard to the following:

Taking lead in boosting Indian economy
In the wake of present recession in the world economy, Indian Railways have drawn up plans towards the upgradation of rail infrastructure and procurement of new assets of rolling stock during the current financial year with an estimated expenditure of Rs. 37,500 crore to shore up the infrastructural development and upkeep. The move will go a long way in boosting the Indian Economy. Over the past few years, Indian Railways has been marching in tune with the requirements of the national economy and it has bettered the targets it set for itself in the process. Indian Railways have emerged as one of the major movers of economy as its plan size in the year 2007-08 has gone upto Rs. 37,500 crore from a plan size of Rs. 10,177 crore in the year 2000-01 and it has shown tremendous financial performance by achieving a cash surplus of Rs. 25,000 crore in 2007-08 as against a meager cash surplus of Rs. 350 crore in 2000-01.
Despite hike in diesel price, the Indian Railways did not pass Railways’ additional financial burden on its users – both Railway passengers and freight customers. Indian Railways consume 227 crore litres (2.27 billion litres) diesel per annum and an increase in the price of diesel by Rs. 3/- per litre cost Railways Rs. 681 crore annually. Railways absorb the diesel price hike by improving its productivity, efficiency and volumes.

Revenue generation

The total approximate gross earnings of Indian Railways on originating basis during 1st April-30th November 2008 were Rs. 49818.10 crore compared to Rs. 43726.51 crore during the same period last year, registering an increase of 13.93 per cent. The total approximate freight earnings have gone up from Rs. 29146.18 crore during 1st April-30th November 2007 to Rs. 33392.83 crore during 1st April-30th November 2008, showing an increase of 14.57 per cent. The total approximate passenger revenue earnings during first eight months of the financial year 2008-09 were Rs. 14324.32 crore compared to Rs. 12698.25 crore during the same period last year, registering an increase of 12.81 per cent. The approximate revenue earnings from other coaching and sundry amounted to Rs. 2097.27 crore during April- November 2008 compared to Rs. 1881.37 crore during the same period last year, showing an increase of 11.47 per cent.
The total approximate number of passengers booked during April- November 2008 were 4717.37 million compared to 4430.75 million during the same period last year, showing an increase of 6.47 per cent.
Indian Railways have carried approximate 534.60 million tonnes of revenue earning freight traffic during the first eight months (i.e. April – November 2008) of the current financial year 2008-09. The freight carried shows an increase of 32.41 million tonnes over the freight traffic of 502.19 million tonnes actually carried during the corresponding period last year, reflecting an increase of 6.45 per cent.
The operating ratio in the Indian Railways is amongst the best in the world and has reached the level of 76 per cent during the year 2007-08.

First ever train service in Kashmir flagged off
The long awaited dream of the people of the Kshmir Valley was finally fulfilled when the Prime Minister flagged off the first train service in Kashmir Valley on 11th October 2008. The prestigious project was launched in the year 1998. The DMU train service covers a distance of 66 kilometres and There are nine stations in its entire journey. The stations are at Budgam, Srinagar, Pampore, Kakapora, Awantipora, Panjgam, Bijbehara, Rajwansher and Anantnag. The train runs twice in a day from either side and entire journey takes one hour and 35 minutes.

A milestone in the era of mutual cooperation with other countries
In a major move aimed at cooperation between the two giant railway systems of the world, namely Indian Railways and Chinese Railways, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Beijing during the Prime Minister’s visit to China in January 2008. The MoU envisages development of rail related programmes of mutual interest, consultations, training and visits to each others’ countries. In the month of May 2008, a MoU was signed by Indian Railways and SNCF International (French Railways) for promoting bilateral cooperation in the rail sector. Cooperation between India and Malaysia in the rail transport sector reached new heights with the Government of Malaysia entrusting the mega project of electrified double tracking project between Seremban–Gemas (in Malaysia) to IRCON, a Public Sector Undertaking of the Ministry Railways in May 2008.

Enhancing efficiency and safety in train operations
In order to increase efficiency and enhance safety in train operations, modern signaling system with Route Relay/Panel/Electronic Interlocking along with Multi aspect colour light signaling in replacement of over-aged mechanical/multi cabin signaling system has been provided at 421 stations during the period January 2008 to November 2008. Auto signaling to increase line capacity has been provided on 236 Route Kilometres during January 2008 to November 2008. It has also been decided to provide Auto Signaling on all saturated high density sub urban routes. This will reduce dependence on human element & enhance safety.

Automatic clearance of Block section has been provided at 422 sections through use of axle counters and 349 Nos. of level crossing gates have been interlocked with signals during Jan’08 to Nov’08. Train Protection Warning System (TPWS) has been commissioned on Chennai Central – Gummidipundi suburban section (50 Route KMs) of Southern Railway in May’08 as a pilot project. This system prevents ‘Signal Passing at Danger’ cases and enforces implementations of speed restriction. Second pilot project of Train Protection Warning System on Delhi-Agra section of Northern/North Central Railway is under various stages of installations.
In order to facilitate prevention of trains’ collision, Anti-Collision Device (ACD) on Katihar-Guwhati-Dibrugarh-Ledo section of North-Frontier Railway is operational. Further, works for its provision on three Railways (Southern/South Central/South Western Railway) have been taken up and are targeted to be completed within next two years.

Connecting Northeastern state capitals with rail link
Taking another step towards Indian Railways’ avowed goal of connecting all Northeastern state capitals, the newly constructed Manu-Agartala railway line opened and introduced two daily train services to Agartala, capital of Tripura from 5th October 2008. While the first pair of trains run between Lumding and Agartala, the second pair runs between Silchar and Agartala. In addition, Bullet proof locomotives have been introduced on terror prone areas on Northeast Frontier Railway so as to boost the morale of the running staff for providing hassle free train service.

New Production Units in 11th Five Year Plan
Indian Railways have decided to set up new Production Units during the 11th Five Year Plan. These are; Wheel Manufacturing Plant at Chhapra with the production capacity of 1,00,000 wheels per year, Green Field Electric Locomotive Factory at Madhepura with the capacity of producing 120 electric locomotives per year, New Rail Coach Factory at Rae Bareilly with production target of 1000 coaches per year and Diesel Locomotive Manufacturing Unit at Marhowra with production capacity of 150 diesel locomotives per year. These Production Units will be set in joint venture with public private partnership.
In addition, while presenting the Railway Budget 2008-09, it has been announced that a new rail coach factory will be set up in the state of Kerala to meet the requirement of passenger coaches in the country.

Technological Up-gradation of Telecommunication Systems
To connect remote locations where cable connectivity is not possible, IR has set up and commissioned satellite communication technology based V-SAT network in current year. The hub of this network is commissioned at New Delhi which is connected to more than 200 remote locations for Freight Operation Information System (FOIS) applications. This network is also planned to be used for connectivity from disaster sites, for disaster management.
The trial on Satellite Imaging for Rail Navigation (SIMRAN) has been successfully completed by RDSO/Lucknow in coordination with IIT/Kanpur, which involves Real Time Train Tracking using GPS and Mobile (GSM) Technologies. This project envisages dissemination of Real Time Train Running Information through Internet, SMS and Display Boards at the stations and on trains. It is proposed to further implement the project over Indian Railways on all mail and express trains.

Railtel Corporation of India Ltd. (RCIL) was set up with the aim to modernize the telecommunication system of Indian Railways as well as earn revenues from the surplus capacity of Optical Fiber Cable (OFC). Railtel has earned Rs. 155 crore upto November 2008 which is higher by 44% over the corresponding year of last year. The earnings this year are more than Rs. 50 crore over the corresponding period of last year.
A total of 30,000 Route Kilometres OFC has been commissioned on Indian Railways. Work of upgradation of OFC network to high bandwidth STM-16 network is in full swing and has already been commissioned on all important routes totaling about 25000 RKMs. 204 important and 2935 other stations have been put on OFC network of Indian Railways.

Electrification of railway track
Indian Railways have setup a target for electrification of 1000 route kilometers during the current financial year. Today, on Indian Railways, 17811 route kilometers has already been electrified which constitute to 28 per cent of the total rail network and 36 per cent of the Broad Gauge route carrying nearly 65 per cent of freight and 50 per cent of passenger traffic. The electric traction is a cheaper option as about Rs. 4500 crore are spent on electric traction energy compared to Rs. 6200 crorre being spent on diesel. Indian Railways are working closely to ensure the completion of pending works of electrification so that its dependence on diesel which is largely imported, is reduced in the times to come.

Strengthening of security on Indian Railways
Ministry of Railways has taken several steps to strengthen its security setup. An integrated Security System is being implemented over stations (including sub-urban stations) of Metro cities of Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai and other 140 vulnerable/sensitive stations of Indian Railways. This system comprises of :- Internet protocol based CCTV system with video analytics ; Access control; Personal and baggage screening system; Explosive detection and disposal system.
On the recommendations of Norms Committee, which had been formed for fixing scales/norms for procurement of modern security related equipment, Ministry of Railways have allocated Rs. 60.76 crore for procurement of security equipment to be used by the Railways Protection Force(RPF). RPF has been upgraded with modern security gadgets like INSAS 5.57 mm rifles, AK-47, SLR 7.62mm, Carbine 9 mm, Pistol Auto 9mm, Bullet Proof Jackets and Helmets, Walkie-Talkie, Hand Held Metal Detectors, Door Frame Metal Detectors, Dog Squad etc.
For the convenience of railway users, initiative of ‘Mobile Helpline’ has been introduced during the year 2008. Vigilance officials are always available 24x7 on the Mobile Helpline No. 155210 on which railway passengers can lodge their complaints of bribery/corruption against railwaymen. Wherever possible, action is taken on real time basis for redressal of their grievances. From the feed-back received so far, the facility of Mobile Helpline can be considered to be a success.

Luxury trains to boost tourism
The Ministry of Railways has signed a MoU with the Government of Punjab state on 1st October 2008 for operation of a luxury tourist train. The luxury tourist train will cover the major tourist destinations of Punjab and North India including the golden triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
A luxury tourist train in association with Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation has been launched in Karnataka-Goa sector. The train was flagged off by Hon’ble President of India on 2nd February 2008 at Yashwantpur. The train brand named as ‘Golden Chariot’ is the fourth of its kind in the Indian Railways. The seven nights/eight days itinerary includes Bangalore-Mysore-Belur-Halebid-Shravanableagola-Hampi-Badami-Pattadakal-Goa-Bangaglore.

World Heritage Site
In its continuous signifying remarkable success, the Indian Railways added another feather in nation’s pride after getting recognition for its fourth railway site, Kalka-Shimla Mountain Railway as ‘World Heritage site’ The Kalka-Shimla Railway (KSR) has been described as one of the most Authentic Mountain Railways in the world. by UNESCO. The decision to add the Kalka-Shimla narrow gauge Railway to World Heritage site was taken at the meeting of UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Quebec City, Canada, on 7th July 2008. The Kalka-Shimla Railway line was opened to traffic on 9th November, 1903. Indian Railways dedicated KSR as ‘World Heritage site’ to the nation at a ceremony held at Shimla on 9th November 2008.

World-class railway stations
In a bid to make Indian Railways the world’s No. 1 Railway network, the Committee on Infrastructure under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister has approved the proposal to develop New Delhi Railway Station as a world class station. The Ministry of Railways has decided to constitute a Core Group for monitoring of Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects related to development of 26 World Class Railway Stations across the country including New Delhi Railway Station. The tender process is underway for upgradation of initially four Railway Stations to world class level including New Delhi.

Dedicated Freight Corridor
After Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) presented the final study report on Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) to the Ministry of Railways, the work is in progress at various stages.. The DFC projects are the flagship projects of Indian Railways and are certainly one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the country. Railways have proposed a 2700 kilometre long railway line project (Eastern Corridor – 1279 kms. and Western corridor – 1483 Kms.) as an augmentation of capacity of Indian Railways network to handle the large increase in volume of traffic expected over the coming years. Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has already given approval ‘in principle’ for the projects. Indian Railways have decided to upgrade the entire feeder routes of proposed Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) initially for 25 ton axle load and subsequently to 30 ton axle load. Four of these proposed feeder routes falling on Western Railway are Pipavav - Surendranagar – Viramgam – Mahesana, Viramgam – Samkhiali, Kandla Port – Gandhidham – Palanpur and Mundra Port – Gandhidham. The bridges falling on these feeder routes are also required to be upgraded for making them fit for 25/30 ton axle load train operation.

Coal transportation agreement
In a significant move at facilitating power generation in the country, Indian Railways signed a long term Coal Transportation Agreement M/s GVK Power (Goindwal Sahib) Ltd. for transportation of coal for 2X270 MW power plant at Goindwal Sahib in Tarantaran (Punjab) on 11th december 2008. The agreement assures the supply of coal to the power plant for a period of 25 years and provides for premium charges and penalty charges for both the parties. Ministry of Railways had already entered into similar agreements with M/s. Rosa Power Supply Co. Ltd. and M/s. Nagarjuna Power supply Co. Ltd. in 2007.

Highest bonus ever paid to employees
As a result of the overwhelming performance of the Indian Railways during the financial year 2007-08, the Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Railways for payment of Productivity Linked Bonus to the extent of 73 days wages for the financial year 2007-08. This payment benefited approximately 13.25 lakh non-gazetted eligible Railway employees.

Excellent achievements in sports
The first ever Railwayman winning an Olympic medal brought glory to India and to Indian Railways in particular. The Railwayman, Shri Sushil Kumar won Bronze medal in the Men’s freestyle 66-KG Wrestling at the Olympics – 2008 in Beijing. On this remarkable achievement, Shri Sushil Kumar was rewarded with a promotion to the post of Asstt. Commercial Manager from his present post as Chief Ticket Inspector and also a cash prize of Rs. 55 lakh.
The Indian Railways retained the title beating Delhi (25-16) in the women section while Indian Railways won the men’s title beating Services (28-25) in the 56th Senior National Kabaddi (Men &Women) Championship held in New Delhi from 11th to 14th October 2008. Shri Rakesh Kumar in men’s section and Ms. Mamta in women’s section both from the Indian Railways have been declared best players of this Championship.

YEAR END REVIEW2008 Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment

2008-12-31T03:40:00.000-08:00

Rs 54 crore for children of people engaged in Unclean Occupation for 2008-09
ON-LINE COMPLAINT FACILITY FOR DISABLEDS

As envisaged in the National Common Minimum Programme (NCMP) of the Government, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is committed to carry forward the basic agenda of social justice and security of the society at large. During 2008-09, many such initiatives were carried out to empower the weaker sections of the society.

Development Of Scheduled Castes And OBCs

A sum of Rs. 1815.50 crore has been provided in the Annual Plan 2008-09 of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment under schemes for the Welfare of Scheduled Castes. Grants/funds are released to State Government/Union Territories/NGOs etc., as per the provisions of the relevant scheme and applicable guidelines/norms/rules. Constant follow-up action is taken to ensure timely release of funds in a phased manner. The allocation for the development of SCs during 2008-09 is 75.64% of the budgetary allocation. The Ministry has earmarked 9.90% of the budget allocation for the development of OBCs during 2008-09.

A Committee under the Chairpersonship of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment was constituted in 2006, for effective coordination to devise ways and means to curb offences of untouchability and atrocities against Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes and effective implementation of the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The Committee has held six meetings at Delhi on 18.09.2006, at Jaipur on 15.01.2007, at Mumbai on 11.08.2007, at Hyderabad on 28.01.2008, at Chandigarh on 14.03.2008 and on 30.05.2008 at Agartala.

The Ministry is also propagating “Dr. Ambedkar Medical Aid Scheme” meant to provide medical treatment facility to the patients belonging to SC category, whose annual family income is less than Rs.50,000 and who are suffering from serious ailments related to Kidney, Heart, Liver, Cancer and Brain or any other life threatening diseases including knee surgery and Spinal surgery. The scheme is implemented in a wide range of hospitals.

To popularize it among the targeted group, letters were sent to all District Magistrates/Dy. Commissioners, Health Secretaries of States/Union Territories, Chief Secretaries of the States and Administrators of Union Territories, etc. requesting them to give wide publicity to the scheme. Further, details of the scheme are also available on the website of the Foundation (www.ambedkarfoundation.nic.in) and also on the website of the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (www.socialjustice.nic.in).

The Centrally Sponsored "Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojna" is being implemented for construction of Hostels for SC Girls and Boys through Field implementing Agencies (States/UTs/Universities/NGOs).

In a major development, the approval has also been given for revising the Centrally sponsored Scheme of Pre-Matric Scholarship to the children of these engaged in Unclean Occupations w.e.f. 1.4.2008: Allocation for the current year (2008-09) is Rs.54.00 crore. Requirement of funds under the revised scheme for the remaining four years of XI Plan would be Rs.340 crore. The target group will get higher financial assistance, as also coverage.

Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities

The Ministry has also initiated a new scheme for providing Incentives to Employers in the Private Sector for Providing Employment to the Persons with Disabilities w.e.f. 01.04.2008, which envisages payment of employer’s contribution to Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and Employees State Insurance (ESI) by the Government for the first three years for providing employment to persons with disabilities in the private sector. The scheme is applicable to persons with monthly wages up to Rs.25,000 per month.

Under Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/ Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP) Scheme, 3.12 lakh, 3.06 lakh and 2.25 lakh persons have been benefited in 2005-06, 2006-07 and 2007-08 respectively.

Around 27.23 lakh children with disabilities have been identified under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) up to 30th September, 2008, of whom 22.53 lakh children have been enrolled in general schools. 0.88 lakh children with disabilities have been covered under Education Gurantee Scheme and Alternative and Innovative Education and 1.12 lakh children with disabilities are being provided home based education. Under Integrated Education for Disabled Children (IEDC), assistance has been given to 18 States and 3 UTs for 64,307 Schools, where 3.57 lakhs children with disabilities studied in 2007-08. Under the “Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme”, assistance is being provided for education and vocational training of approximately 80,000 children with disabilities in about 700 institutions of special education and vocational training run by Non-Governmental Organization. 16950 special teachers are being trained every year to teach children with disabilities.

Through National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC), Rs.23.44 crore, Rs. 25.95 crore and Rs.28.44 crore have been disbursed to persons with disabilities to take up self-employment ventures in 2005-06, 2006-07 and 2007-08 respectively.

In another big measure to help disableds, any complaint relating to infringement of rights of persons with disabilities or non-implementation of law, rules, bye-laws and regulation can be registered with the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities on line. The facility has been provided at the website of the CCD www.ccdisabilities.nic.in. The complainant also gets an acknowledgement number for future correspondence/reference and follow up of the case. The complainants can get the latest status of their complaints through internet. e-Status module through internet has features like advance search while allows complaintants to search case details even if they do not remember the case number. Simple instructions have also been provided to operate the module and get the status of the case. The website will currently display details of cases that have been registered after 1st November, 2008 or cases in which action has been taken by CCD office after 1st November, 2008. The interim/final orders passed by CCD with effect from 1st December 2008 will be available on the website by January 2009.

As the world is celebrating the bi-centenary of Louis Braille on 4th January 2009, the first National Award in the category of the Best Braille Press will be given on the same day and thereafter, it will be given each year on 3rd December along with the other National Awards.

Social Defence

Safeguarding the rights of the elderly is an issue of paramount concern today for all of us, therefore, to deter inhuman incidents against them by their families, penal provisions such as jail for three months in case of abandoning has been included. The main aim of the ‘The Maintenance and Welfare of parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007’ is to create an enabling mechanism to make the claim for maintenance simpler, speedier and cheaper. Since most of the provisions are to be implemented by the States, they are given the authority to decide to adopt the Act and the powers to frame rules. To ensure that the parents and senior citizens are benefited by the Act at the earliest, the Minister is personally following up the issue with all the Chief Ministers. As a result, 11 States have already notified the Act and some States are in the process of framing appropriate Rules for this Act.

Apart from the Act, the Ministry is making concerted efforts to ensure that the lives of the older persons become more comfortable. Ministry’s grant-in-aid scheme has been revised as “Integrated programme for Older Persons” with effect from 1st April, 2008. While the amount of grant being given to NGOs for supporting old age homes, day care centers and mobile medicare units has almost been doubled, a number of innovative projects have been included in the scheme. Some of these projects are running of Day Care Centres for Alzheimer’s Disease/Dementia Patients; Physiotherapy clinics for older persons; Disability and hearing aids for older persons; Mental health care and Specialized care for the Older Persons; Help-lines and Counseling Centre for the Older persons; Sensitizing programmes for children particularly in Schools and Colleges; Regional Resources and Training Centres; and Formation of Vridha Sanghas/Senior Citizen Association.

In another move, the Government has approved revision of the Scheme for prevention of drug abuse. The key features of the new Scheme are provision of grant for food for BPL addicts; Integrated Centre for Rehabilitation of Addicts; flexibility regarding number of Beds and duration of stay of addicts in the centres; RRTCs as an integral component of the Scheme; Panchayati Raj institutions as eligible bodies for running centres; greater emphasis on awareness, preventive education and Media campaign; and enhanced financial support to the centres. The Government is also proposing to formulate a comprehensive National Policy on issues related to prevention of alcoholism and drug abuse. This Policy would cover a wide range of issues such as prevention, treatment and rehabilitation aspects as well as institutional mechanisms and convergence of programmes in order to address the problem. Besides, the Government has decided to set up a consultative mechanism at the national level by constituting a National Consultative Committee on De-addiction and Rehabilitation (NCCDR). The Ministry has been extending financial assistance to over 350 Non-Governmental Organizations for running 41 Counselling centres and 401 De-addiction Centres in the country. The Ministry has also takes up regular awareness generation programmes to tackle issue of alcoholism and drug abuse in the country.

To mitigate the suffering of the people affected due to Kosi floods- especially those suffering from disability and psychological trauma- the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment took up Relief work through a team drawn from its three National Institutes viz. the National Institute of Mentally Handicapped (NIMH), Secunderabad, the National Institute of Rehabilitation, Training & Research (NIRTAR), Cuttack, and the National Institute for Orthopaedically Handicapped (NIOH), Kolkata. The team, comprising doctors, clinical psychologists, physiotherapists, Nurses etc. has been working in the camps set up by the State Government and has been providing various services to affected people. Rehabilitation work by the above team commenced from 08, September, 2008. Up to 24, October, 2008 the team had provided services of various kinds to about 6500 flood victims. Of these, assistive devices were given to 267 disabled persons, 20 corrective surgeries were performed, medicines were given to over 3300 persons and counselling provided to over 2800.

Year end Review - 08 Ports & Shipping

2008-12-31T03:34:00.000-08:00

Approval for Indian Maritime University and cruise Shipping Policy during 2008

SEVERAL PROJECTS UNDERWAY TO IMPROVE PORT CONNECTIVITY

SHIPPING SECTOR
The approval of the Parliament for setting up of Indian Maritime University in Chennai, ‘Navratna’ status to the Shipping Corporation of India, steps to protect seafarers, acquisition of three new ships by SCI, setting up of four new lighthouses along with automation of 30 lighthouses, steps to set up National Maritime Complex, approval of cruise shipping policy and declaration of new National Waterways marked the main activities of the Shipping Sector.

Indian Maritime University

The Government has decided to establish Indian Maritime University (IMU) in Chennai by an Act of Parliament in November this year with campuses at Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai and Visakhapatnam. Formation of IMU will facilitate and promote maritime studies, research and extension work. As there are a sizeable number of private institutions imparting maritime education and training, the University will standardize the quality of such education and training through affiliation and academic supervision. The existing seven maritime training and research institutes (Government and Government aided) will be merged with the IMU.

Protection Of Seafarers
The casualties of Indian seafarers have been a matter of great concern in the recent time. When casualty occurs, it is obligatory on flag state to carry out investigation under UNCLOS Article 94(7) into every marine casualty or incident of navigation on the high seas involving a ship flying its flag and causing loss of lives and serious injury to nationals of another state. While there may not be much of a problem with the responsible flag states, it becomes difficult with flags of convenience state. The Department of Shipping has taken various steps in this regard. The matter has been taken up with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for consolidation of the international conventions with regard to shipping casualty and making the law stringent to bring around the non-responsible flag state to carry out their responsibility.

National Maritime Complex
To showcase various facets of Indian Maritime Industry, it is proposed to have a National Maritime Complex at Chennai and a Society has been formed in November this year to fulfill the requirements of maritime sector by providing maritime related and integrated services at a single location. The Complex would act as a maritime hub of the region and act as a power house of the global maritime trade. It will preserve Maritime heritage and key ancient maritime traditions, which otherwise might get lost.

Cruise Shipping Policy
During this year, the Government approved Cruise Shipping Policy which is expected to carve a prominent space in world tourism and it would showcase India as a major source and destination of world tourism. The Cruise Shipping Policy was circulated to all the concerned Ministries, stakeholders, Major Port Trusts and Maritime Boards in September this year for taking further necessary steps in implementing the policy.

Inland Water Transport
During the years 2008, two waterways have been declared as new National Waterways namely: (i) the Kakinada-Puducherry stretch of Canals and the Kaluvelly Tank, Bhadrachalam – Rajahmundry stretch of River Godavari and Wazirabad – Vijayawada stretch of River Krishna (1095 kms) and (ii) the Talcher- Dhamra stretch of river Brahmani, Geonkhali- Charbatia stretch of East Coast Canal, Charbatia- Dhamra stretch of Matai river and Mangalgadi-Paradip stretch of Mahanadi delta rivers (623 kms).

Apart from this, MoU was signed between Indian Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and NTPC for transportation of imported coal by IWT mode from Haldia to Farakka/Kahalgaon/Barh through National Waterway. Construction of low level jetty of fixed terminal has been completed at Patna and Pandu (Guwahati). IWAI has ordered eight new dredgers.

Shipping Corporation Of India
The Government conferred the much coveted “Navratna” status on the Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) making it the 17th Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) in the country to join the elite club of ‘Navratna PSUs’. Earlier the SCI was “Mini Ratna” Category-I PSU with effect from 24.02.2000. The Company has an ambitious ship acquisition programme of ordering/ acquiring 62 new building ships during the 11th Five Year Plan, which forms part of the National Maritime Development Programme. Presently the Company has total 29 ships on order at various reputed shipyards. During the year, the SCI has taken delivery of 3 new building ships which have been named as follows: “SCI Chennai” “SCI Mumbai” and “M.T. Desh Viraat”.

International Cooperation
In order to deepen and expand the cooperation between the two countries in the fields of ports and maritime transport and logistics, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed in February this year with the Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management of Netherland. Similarly, a trilateral Agreement among India, Brazil and South Africa signed in October this year envisaging a five year Action Plan on Maritime transport Project to further strengthen Maritime relation and consolidate them on the basis of quality and mutual benefit.

Aid To Navigation
Four New Lighthouses at Minicoy (Lakshdweep), Honavar (Karnataka), Iskapallipalem (AP) and Mayabunder (A&N) have been established during the year 2008. Apart from this, five Racons on Mumbai High Platform are being procured and automation of Mumbai Lighthouse Region (28 Lighthouses) with five Remote Control Stations and automation of Port Blair Lighthouses Region (30 Lighthouses) with three Remote Control Stations is underway. EFC for establishment of a National Automatic Identification System (AIS) Network with 85 base stations has been completed. Rs. 116.00 crore has been collected as Lighthouse (Revenue) till 30th November 2008.

Process on for two International Size Shipyards
National Maritime Development Programme has envisaged setting up of two international size shipyards. For this purpose Govt. has nominated Ennore Port Ltd. And Mumbai Port rust as the nodal agencies for East-Coast and West Coast respectively who have been authorized to appoint consultants to identify three or four alternative sites each for setting up of shipyard on West Coast and East Coast of India and also suggest optimal location with detailed justification. The process for appointment of consultants has been initiated.

PORT SECTOR

Mode Concession Agreement (MCA)
The Government has finalized a Model Concession Agreement (MCA) to ensure uniformity in the contractual agreements to be entered by the Major Ports with the selected bidders for the Build, Operate & Transfer (BOT) projects to be developed through Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode. It will also enable the prospective bidders to have prior knowledge of the contractual obligations of both parties and therefore, ensure transparency.

New Tariff Guideline
For fixing tariffs, the Department of Shipping has formulated new Tariff Guidelines, Tariff Authority for Major Ports (TAMP) an autonomous body under the Department of Shipping, shall now follow a normative cost based approach for fixing tariffs. These tariffs will act as ceiling and will be indexed to inflation and the private operators are free to charge below these ceilings.

Rail Road Connectivity of Major Ports
The Committee on Infrastructure (CoI) headed by the Prime Minister set up a Committee of Secretaries (CoS) under the Chairmanship of Member Secretary (Planning Commission) to review the rail road connectivity of Major Ports which recommended that each Major Port should preferably have minimum four lane road and double line rail connectivity and this should be established in fixed time frame.

CoS recommended timely completion of the eight ongoing rail connectivity projects (Haldia, Paradip-2 projects, NMPT, Kandla-2 projects, JNPT and Tuticorin) and ten ongoing road projects (Haldia, Paradip, Visakhapatnam, Chennai-Ennore, Tuticorin, Cochin, NMPT, Mormugao, JNPT-2 projects). CoS also recommenced five rail connectivity (Kolkata, Mormugao, Haldia, Mumbai and Ennore) and four road connectivity projects (Kolkata, Paradip, Tuticorin and Cochin). Railways have already completed projects for Rail connectivity to the Major Ports at Haldia, New Mangalore, Kandla and JNPT. The project for Road connectivity to VPT was also completed.

Ennore Port Ltd. (EPL)
Ennore Port Ltd. (EPL) has also signed the Concession Agreement with the selected bidders for development of an eight MTPA Iron Ore Terminal on BOT basis. The estimated capital cost of these projects is Rs. 348.00 crores and Rs. 480.00 crores respectively. The Government has approved the project for undertaking Capital Dredging-Phase-I by EPL at an expenditure of Rs. 90 crores. EPL will bear the entire expenditure for this Capital Dredging project for providing a depth of (-) 15 metre below CD for the new Marine Liquid, Iron Ore and Coal Terminals being developed on BOT Basis. The physical progress upto the month of November 2008 is 80 per cent.

Developmental Activities to improve connectivity
18.3 km four-lane Elevated Expressway from Chennai Port to Maduravoyal on National Highway 4 has been approved by the Government recently.

Chennai-Ennore Port Road Connectivity of 29.3 kms length with an estimated project cost of Rs. 309 crores is also underway. A progress of 9.7 per cent in case of Phase I has been completed.

4-laning of Tuticorin-Madurai Road (NH-45 B) with road length of 144 kms at an estimated cost of Rs. 629 crores has been sanctioned, work awarded and Financial Close achieved in January’07 and scheduled to be completed by 2010.

Doubling of Madurai-Dindigul Section of railway line connecting Tuticorin Port of 62.06 kms. Length with estimated project cost of Rs. 126 crores has been sanctioned and the work has been awarded. Ambaturai-Kodaikanal road doubling has been merged with his work.

Project Report for Puttur-Attipattu Chord Line connecting Ennore Port 144 kms length at an estimated cost of Rs. 435 crores in under preparation. Project is sanctioned in Budget 2008-09 on SPV mode with 50 per cent cost sharing with Ennore Port.

Year End Review M/o of Urban Development

2008-12-31T03:30:00.000-08:00

351 Projects covering 63 Cities Sanctioned / in progress under JNNURM

NATIONAL URBAN SANITATION POLICY LAUNCHED

Highlights

• Under the Urban Infrastructure and Governance (UIG) component of Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), cumulatively, 351 Projects were approved.

• The percentage of Additional Central Assistance (ACA) committed for the UIG Component has already exceeded the halfway mark of allocation for the entire Mission period.

• ACA for Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns (UIDSSMT) has been released in respect of 505 projects in 415 towns out of 691 projects covering 558 towns approved by the State Level Sanctioning Committee. The releases comprise almost 50% of allocation for the entire Mission period.

• Urban Reforms are on fast track with innovations at State and City levels

• National Urban Sanitation Policy was launched.

• Service Level Benchmarks were laid down in key areas of Municipal Functions

• Ministry of Urban Development was jointly identified with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation for the “”National Mission on Sustainable Habitat’ in Prime Minister’s National Action Plan on Climate Change.

• A Capacity Building Scheme for the Urban Local Bodies was launched.

JNNURM and UIDSSMT

Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) has set the agenda for Urban Transformation across the country. Since the launch of the Mission. Memoranda of Understanding has been signed with 62 of 63 Cities and so far, 59 Cities have been covered under assistance. The percentage of Additional Central Assistance (ACA) committed in 3 years so far, as against allocation of Rs 25500 crore (UIG Component) for the entire Mission period of 7 years is 63.81%. The total project cost approved is Rs. 3360.94 crore, against which, the ACA released is Rs. 5041.47 crore. Also, of the 351 approved projects, State Governments have reported that physical work relating to 22 projects have been completed.

Under Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small & Medium Towns (UIDSSMT), 691 project reports of 558 towns have been approved by the State Level Sanctioning Committee, out of which ACA has been released to 505 projects in 415 towns involving Rs. 3192.39 crore. The State Governments have informed that physical work relating to 45 projects under UIDSSMT have been completed.

Urban Reforms

JNNURM has catalysed cities to undertake important reform initiatives. The cities have undertaken reforms which contribute to sustainable functioning of urban local bodies (ULB).

Some fresh initiatives include:

• Comprehensive Land Title legislation in Rajasthan,

• Creation of a Municipal Cadre – Municipal Accounts Service in Andhra Pradesh,

• Setting up of Urban Transport Fund in Surat and Pimpri-Chinchwad,

• Setting up of Urban Transport Authority in Hyderabad, Jaipur, Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai.

• ULBs have initiated various steps to improve their collection of property tax and user charges in a financially sustainable manner.

Public Private Partnership (PPP) Initiatives

The Mission Cities have agreed to include promotion of PPP through appropriate policies and projects as a part of the reform agenda. A number of States such as West Bengal, Maharashtra, Kerala and Gujarat have adopted PPP Policy. PPP Cell has also been established by Assam and West Bengal for promotion of PPP for infrastructure projects in their States. PPP initiatives have been taken by Indore, Vadodara, Pune and Ahmedabad for establishing City Bus services. PPP initiatives have been taken by Kochi in Solid Waste Management.

Focus on Water and Sanitation

Water Supply projects covering augmentation, distribution network and metering are under implementation in 46 Cities. In particular, in 26 cities, the citizens will also get water supply round the clock (24X&) at 135 – 150 litre per capita per day. Sewerage network and connectivity to households is under construction in 33 Cities. Upon completion, the cities will discharge sewerage into network systems rather than directly into nallahs and Sewerage Treatment Plants (STP) will treat sewerage before safe disposal. Solid Waste Management Projects are under implementation in 30 Cities and upon completion, the collection efficiency is expected to increase to 100%. Crude dumping will be eliminated with the creation of engineered landfills with positive results for water quality and environment.

National Urban Sanitation Policy

The National Urban Sanitation Policy was announced in 2008, the international year of sanitation. The Policy was formally launched through a workshop on 12th November 2008. The National Urban Sanitation Policy envisages transforming all the towns and cities of India into 100% sanitized, healthy and livable spaces and ensuring sustained public health and improved environmental outcomes for all its citizens. Special focus has been given to hygienic and affordable sanitation facilities particularly for the urban poor and women. The policy focuses on achievements of outcomes rather than on mere construction of infrastructure, and emphasizes building capacities at the city level. The main components of the policy are awareness generation and bringing about behavior change, achieving open defecation free cities, re-orienting institutions and mainstreaming and prioritizing sanitation in all urban management initiatives at the national, state, city and local level; sanitary and safe disposal of wastes, promoting proper usage and maintenance of household, community and public sanitation facilities; strengthening urban local bodies to provide sanitation services by supporting need based capacity building and training at state level.

Bench Marking of Urban Services

The Ministry of Urban Development has prescribed Standardized service level indicators for four basic urban services (water supply, sewerage, Solid Waste Management and Storm Water Drainage) for enabling Cities to monitor, manage and improve their services delivery performance for basic services. Comprehensive set of guidelines with indicators (covering access to services, quality and reliability of services, cost effectiveness) and a framework for data collection, collation and analysis and a reporting mechanism as well as Bench marking has been prepared and circulated. The Mission cities in particular are expected to keep these bench marks in view while implementing projects under the Mission.

Other Initiatives of the Ministry of Urban Development

( a) Interventions for JNNURM: A few of the various innovations undertaken by the Ministry of Urban Development for better implementation and monitoring of the projects sanctioned under JNUURM are as follows:

(i) Supporting professionally manned Programme Management Unit (PMU) at State level and Programme Implementation Unit (PIU) at ULB level

(ii) Third party monitoring through appointment of Independent Review and Monitoring Agencies (IRMA)

(iii) Capacity building and communication activities for slow performing cities through Rapid Training Program (RTP)

(iv) Peer Experience and Reflective Learning (PEARL) to foster cross learning among cities and institutions

(v) Community Participation Fund (CPF) with the objective of enhancing engagement of citizens in the process of urban management.

(b) Credit Rating of Urban Local Bodies (ULB) - The financial requirement for funding urban infrastructure is significant and it is recognized that public funding alone will not be sufficient. In order to facilitating leveraging of debt for urban infrastructure projects, credit rating of ULB has been undertaken. In the Mission Cities, of the 57 ULB which have been assigned draft ratings , 36 ULBs have investment grade credit rating,

(c) Accrual Based Municipal accounting - A National Municipal Accounting Manual based on accrual based double entry accounting system was prepared and circulated to all the States/UTs in January, 2005 to provide a common framework and simplified toolkit to the ULB for recording accounting entries. As a result now, almost all the States have either adopted double entry accounting system or are in the process of adopting the same.

( d) National Urban Information System (NUIS). A Centrally Sponsored Scheme on NUIS was launched in March 2006 to develop GIS databases for 158 towns/cities in the country. The major objectives of the scheme are to develop attributes as well as spatial information base for various levels of urban planning, use of modern data sources, develop standards and urban indices, and build capacity of personnel in State Town and Country Planning Departments and the ULB in NUIS Scheme towns. So far satellite images have been received for 140 towns, aerial photography has been completed in 35 towns, and data collection is completed in 47 towns. Besides, 28 training programmes as well as 4 regional workshops have been conducted under the Scheme.

(e) Capacity Building in Urban Local Bodies (C-BULB). A Capacity Building Scheme for Urban Local Bodies was launched in 2008-2009 for providing grants to build capacities of the officials and elected representatives in ULBs. The capacity building programme for ULBs would address the needs of those municipal bodies which are not covered under JNNURM or other schemes of the Ministry like UIDSSMT.

Urban Transport

The National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) was formulated by the Government in 2006. The policy, inter-alia, seeks to promote integrated land use transport planning, better use of public transport and non-motorized transport mode, use of cleaner technology.

Progress in the Field of Urban Transport

• Delhi MRTs phase-I consisting of 65 kilometers has already been completed at a total cost of Rs. 10571 crores. Delhi MRTs phase –II and its extension for about 125 kilometers at a total cost of Rs. 19,000 crore is in progress

• Metro Rail projects have been approved for Bangalore, Kolkata on DMRC pattern and for Mumbai and Hyderabad on PPP pattern and are in different stages of progress. The metro project for Chennai is under advance stage of consideration.

• Proposals for Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) in Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Indore, Jaipur, Pune / Pimpri-Chinchwada, Surat, Rajkot, Vijayawada and Vishakhapatttnam have been approved under JNNURM scheme of the Ministry at an Estimated outlay of Rs. 4510 crore covering 409 kilometers with Central Financial assistance of Rs. 2065 crore.

After the NUTP was launched in 2006, a number of initiatives, particularly for capacity building, were taken to operationalise the Policy.

• World Bank/DFID assistance was availed for preparing the toolkits and guidelines, which were finalized in a national workshop in June.2008 for capacity building of State/city level Urban Transport Authorities and other stakeholders: - These toolkits related to:

i) Institutional Frame Work for Urban Transport – Guidelines.

ii) Toolkit for alternative analysis.

iii) Bus System (BSM) toolkit.

iv) Toolkit for Public Private Partnership (PPP).

• Asian Development Bank (ADB) assistance was availed for preparing the toolkits and guidelines, which were finalized in a national workshop in July 2008 for capacity building of State/city level Urban Transport Authorities and other stakeholders, The toolkits related to:

i) Toolkits/guidelines for Bus Service Improvement and Bus Rapid Transport (BRT).

ii) Toolkits/guidelines on Parking and non-Motorised Transport (NMT).

iii) Toolkits for Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP).

• World Bank/GEF assistance was availed for preparation of Sustainable Urban Transport Project in 9 demonstration cities to be implemented over the next 4 years with the World Bank, GEF, UNDP and JNNURM assistance.

• A new scheme of urban transport planning has been launched w.e.f. August, 2008 for providing Central financial assistance up to 80% for taking up traffic and transportation studies and preparation of Detailed Project Reports (limited up to 50% in case of DPR). The scheme covers the wide gamut of urban transport matters for promoting comprehensive and integrated urban transport planning, studies, integrated land use and transport planning, comprehensive mobility plans, preparation of DPR, clean development mechanism (CDM) studies, Intelligent Transport System (ITS) studies, launching of awareness campaign in line with the NUTP, 2006.

• In October 2008, the Ministry of Urban Development and National Capital Region Planning Board co-ordinated with the State Governments of Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi for facilitating the signing of Reciprocal Common Transport Agreement for unrestricted movement of vehicles in National Capital Region (Contract Carriage).

• An International Exhibition cum Conference on Urban Transport-Urban Mobility India was held in December 2008.

Major Initiatives of DoPT in 2008

2008-12-31T03:26:00.000-08:00

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
Year-end Review 2008

DoPT

The Department of Personnel and Training initiated several measures and policy decisions during the year, aimed at making administration more professional, accountable and citizen-friendly. The major initiatives taken during the year 2008 are as under:

Statutory backing to SC/ST Reservation in Posts and Services

The Bill giving statutory backing to the instructions related to reservation in posts and services for the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes has been introduced in Parliament. The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Reservation in Posts and Services Bill) will elevate the provisions of the reservation to a statutory right and also instill greater confidence among members of the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. It will also go along way in meeting the constitutional goal of securing justice, liberty and equality for all citizens of the country and in promoting fraternity among them all.

So far administrative instructions issued by the Central Government from time to time in pursuance of clauses (4) and (4A) of article 16 and the proviso to article 335 of the Constitution provided reservation of appointments or posts for the Scheduled castes and the Scheduled Tribes in civil service under the control of the Central Government.

Special Recruitment Drive for backlog vacancies

The department launched a special recruitment drive to fill up the backlog vacancies in promotion quota in the SC/ST category. Out of a backlog of 36284 vacancies, 35464 (i.e. 97.7 per cent) were filled in during the year. Of these, 34402 were in the Government and 1062 in the autonomous bodies of Government of India. Under NCMP, the U.P.A. government had stipulated that all backlog in reservation quota will be filled in a time-bound manner.

National Conference of members of CAT

For the first time an All India National Conference of all the Members of the Central Administrative Tribunals (CAT) was organized this year in New Delhi. With a view to improve the quality of judgment being delivered by the Central Administrative Tribunal, an initiative has been taken to send the newly appointed Members to the National Judicial Academy at Bhopal for an orientation programme.

Central Information Commission strengthened

Four new Central Information Commissioners were appointed to ensure more effective and another operation of CIC since the use of RTI Act is progressively on the rise and the quantum of work under RTI has gone up substantially.

The Central Information Commission held its third Annual Convention, which was inaugurated by the Prime Ministry of India. The theme of the convention was “RTI and its Ramifications for Good Governance”. The two day convention had seven technical sessions covering major aspects of governance. The convention was attended by representatives of Civil Society and media both from within the country and from SAARC countries. Deliberations were aimed to produce documents of contemporary as well as long term relevance to South Asia on the people’s right to information and transparency in governance.

Bill on Prevention of Corruption Introduced in Parliament

Bill on Prevention of Corruption introduced in Parliament to effectively check the menace in the administration and other areas of public life. The bill aims at ensuring clean public life.

6th Pay Commission Recommendations Implemented

The 6th Pay Commission for central Government employees put in place. In pursuance of recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay Commission, for the central civil employees, some provisions like enhancement of Maternity Leave from 135 to 180 and Child Care Leave up to two years during their entire service to women employees have been extended to the central Govt. employees.

More Transparency in Performance Appraisal of AIS Officers

The new format of performance appraisal of AIS officers has been introduced. This brings in a great degree of transparency and objectivity in this process. The new format prescribes an interactive method of evaluation in which the officer being appraised and the appraising officer both are involved. The broad contours of the system include, use of performance appraisal for career planning and training, preparation of a work plan, health check up, numerical grading , disclosure of the report etc. This new system brings the best global practices in this area for the first time in evaluating the performance of All India Service officers.

Public Services Bill

The draft Public Services Bill has been finalized by the Government and is currently referred to the Administrative Reforms Commission for comments. The Bill is aimed at providing a statutory basis for the regulation of the public services in India, as enshrined in Article 309 of the Constitution of India. The Bill would regulate the appointment and conditions of the public servants, lay down and review the fundamental values of public services, the public services code of ethics, public service management code etc. to promote good governance and better delivery of services to the citizens.

Annual Health Check up of All India Service Officers

With a view to bringing greater health consciousness among members of the all India Services, which would be conducive to greater efficiency and also reduce the costs of illness to the Government, a comprehensive annual health check-up has been made mandatory for AIS officers.

Six additional CBI Courts created

Six additional Courts have been created exclusively for CBI cases in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Long pendency of corruption cases will, thus, be curtailed by the appointment of additional judges. CBI enlisted the support of common man in fight against corruption by taking up countrywide Anti-corruption Awareness Campaigns, sending SMS to common people As an outcome of these campaigns, numerous queries were received by Anti Corruption Branches of CBI regarding the procedural and other aspects for making such complaints to CBI.

During the year CBI has registered 13 cases having international/inter-state ramifications relating to the recovery/seizure of Fake Indian Currency Notes. These seizures were made from different states viz. six from U.P., three each from Delhi and West Bengal and one from Karnataka.

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention Chennai 2009

2008-12-31T03:20:00.000-08:00

Preparations for the forthcoming Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, to be held at the Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai on 7-9 January 2009, are in full swing. Being organised by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, Government of India in partnership with the Government of Tamil Nadu and the Confederation of Indian Industry, this biggest ever PIO/NRI event in Chennai is expected to draw over 1,500 delegates from different parts of the world.

Ever since its inception in 2003, this annual convention has been the biggest platform for NRIs/PIOs to engage with the Government and people of India in matters of mutual interest and for networking. These Conventions enable the Government of India to better understand the expectations of the Overseas Indians from the land of their ancestors and to acknowledge their role in India’s all-round development.

Discussions at these conventions have been very productive and fruitful for both the sides and have led the Government of India to take several measures to further strengthen the existing bonds of affinity and cultural linkage with the people of Indian origin. Decisions taken by the Government of India as a result of wider consultations held at such Conventions include formulation of the Overseas Citizenship of India Scheme, establishment of Overseas Indian Facilitation Centre, conceptualisation of a PIO University, formation of Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council of People of Indian Origin, and setting up of an India Development Foundation. Programmes like Know India Programme and Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children are designed specifically for Diaspora youth.

The theme of PBD-2009 is ‘Engaging the Diaspora – The way forward’. There will be four plenary sessions entitled (i) “Indian as an Emerging Power: The Diaspora Factor”, (ii) ‘Reflections on the Current Economic Crisis: Diaspora Concerns’, (iii) ‘Preservation of Language and Culture of the Indian Diaspora’ and (iv) “Diaspora Interaction with the States”. Separate regional sessions on ‘Caribbean’ and ‘Canada’ would be the distinguishing features of the forthcoming convention apart from the regional sessions on ‘Africa’, ‘Asia-Pacific’, ‘Europe’, the ‘Gulf’ and the ‘USA’. There would be Building Bridges sessions on ‘Trade & Investment’, ‘Diaspora Philanthropy’, ‘Diaspora Knowledge Network’, ‘Media & Entertainment’, ‘Health for all: Role of Diaspora’, and ‘Increased Interaction with Diaspora women’. There would be separate State sessions for the major participating states. The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh will inaugurate the PBD Convention on 8th January. The President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil will deliver the valedictory address on 9th January. She would also confer the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards for 2009.

Setting up of National Meat & Poultry processing Board

2008-12-31T03:19:00.000-08:00

Friday, December 26, 2008
Ministry of Food Processing Industries
The Cabinet today gave its approval for establishment of “National Meat & Poultry Processing Board” with its Headquarters at Delhi. The total funds allocated over a period of three years are Rs. 14.64 crores for the establishment of the Board. The highlights of the Board are:
1. The Ministry of Food Processing Industries will register the National Meat & Poultry Processing Board (NMPPB) as a Society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. The Board which will be autonomous, will be initially facilitated by the Government and will be subsequently managed by the industry and is expected to boost growth of the sector, benefiting both the producers and the processors.
2. The Board will provide help to the industry in setting up / modernization of abattoirs by providing technical consultancy for production of hygienic meat and meat products and for utilization of slaughterhouse wastes to prepare animal by products with value addition.
3. The Board will help the industry to provide a focused approach to address all the issues related to production of hygienic, safe and wholesome meat / meat products; harmonization of domestic standards with international standards; develop uniform and effective meat quality testing systems in the country; and also to address the environmental pollution issues arising out of the present conditions in the meat industry.

Rs. 6,000 crore outlay approved for Repair, Renovation and Restoration of Water Bodies

2008-12-31T03:17:00.000-08:00

Friday, December 26, 2008
Ministry of Water Resources
The Union Cabinet today gave its approval to the Scheme of repair, renovation and restoration of wide variety of water bodies all over the country with an approximate cost of Rs. 6,000 crore during XI Plan period.. The scheme will cover about 23000 water bodies across the country with a Culturable Command Area of 16.8 lakh hectares. When completed, the project will create an additional irrigation potential of 7.5 lakh hectares. The scheme envisages that the States will prepare projects with a sub-basin approach with regard to public water bodies on Government land/ Gram Panchayat / Municipalities / Corporations, Registered Societies in Agriculture and Allied sectors as well as Public Trusts, etc. The objective is comprehensive improvement of selected tank systems including restoration, improvement of catchment area of tank commands, increase in storage capacity of water bodies, improvement in agriculture / horticulture productivity, increase in recharge of ground water in downstream areas of water bodies, development of tourism, cultural activities, increased availability of drinking water, etc. Under the scheme, it will copver about 23000 water bodies having Culturable Command Area of about 16.8 lakh hec. After the completion of the scheme about 7.5 lakh hec. Of additional irrigation potential would be created.

“Farakka Barrage Project” – A Central Sector Scheme under Transport Sector

2008-12-31T03:16:00.000-08:00

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today gave its approval for the Scheme “Farakka Barrage Project” under Transport Sector at an estimated cost of Rs.350 crore to undertake on-going works related to special repairs of barrage gates and their operating system; repair of unlined canal banks, construction of road bridges and cross-drainage works across the feeder canal; special repairs and improvement of Rail-cum-Road bridge at Farakka Barrage and Canal Head Regulator; repairs of Jangipur Barrage and Project Colonies including Hospital and School buildings besides the river training and anti-erosion works in critical reaches along the river Ganga – Padma and Bhagirathi for the safety of Farakka Barrage. The Farakka Barrage Project, constructed in 1975 with the prime objective of preservation of Kolkata Port and for increasing the navigation depth of the Bhagirathi – Hooghly waterway, has a 2225 m long barrage across Ganga with a canal head regulator to divert 40,000 cusec of water through a feeder canal for inland navigation to maintain Kolkata Port. Due to its continuous use, most of the barrage gates, feeder canal and appurtenant works need special repairs and upkeep of the operating system.

Bio-Medical Norms

2008-12-31T03:14:00.000-08:00

Backgrounder
Under Rule 7 of the Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1998 notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the respective State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) in the Union Territories are the prescribed authorities for enforcement of the provisions of these Rules. The Central Government have delegated the necessary powers vested in it under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, to the Chairmen of all the SPCBs and PCCs in UTs including the Chairman, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), for taking legal action for violation of the Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998.

Under Rule 10 of these Rules, every occupier/operator is required to submit an annual report to the concerned prescribed authority by 31st of January every year, to include information about the categories and quantities of bio-medical wastes handled during the preceding year. The prescribed authority is required to send this information in a compiled form to the Central Pollution Control Board by 31 March every year. In respect of the violations reported, show cause notices are issued and prosecutions filed against the defaulting units in all the states.

Under the Bio-Medical Waste Rules, the bio-medical waste has been categorized into ten categories. Different methods of treatment have been prescribed for each category of waste. For proper implementation of the Rules, awareness of the staff alongwith the trained manpower in the respective HCEs is needed. While several large hospitals have set up their own facilities for treatment of bio-medical waste, to enable small clinics, nursing homes and dispensaries in adherence of the Rules, they are provided with the option for treatment of their waste in common treatment facilities on payment of treatment charges.

During the past few years, awareness about the Rules has increased and as a result of the efforts made by the various agencies, the quantum of the bio-medical waste being treated has also increased. From time to time, the Central Government and the CPCB have also addressed all the SPCBs and PCCs in UTs for taking action against the defaulting units. The possibility of some of the health care facilities not disposing their bio-medical waste strictly as per the norms, however, cannot be ruled out.

Integrated Energy Policy Approved

2008-12-31T03:12:00.000-08:00

Integrated Energy Policy Approved for Longterm Sustainable Growth & Energy Security
The Union Cabinet on 26 Dec 2008 gave its approval to the Integrated Energy Policy for the country. It also decided to set up a Monitoring Committee under the Chairmanship of the Cabinet Secretary for reviewing the progress of implementation of the policy. The Integrated Energy Policy envisions a roadmap for sustainable growth with energy security over a reasonable period of time. India needs to sustain an economic growth of at least 9 percent over the next 25 years if it is to eradicate poverty and meet its larger human development goals. Meeting the energy requirements of this growth in a sustainable manner presents a difficult challenge and one that has become more formidable following the steep rise in international energy prices since 2006. It is necessary in this backdrop to evolve an integrated energy policy that provides a coherent framework of policy covering different energy sources in a consistent manner.

Integrated Energy Policy

2008-12-31T03:07:00.000-08:00

by Planning Commission

India needs to sustain an economic growth of at least 9 percent over the next 25 years if it is to eradicate poverty and meet its larger human development goals. The primary energy supply (including gathered non-commercial such as wood and dung) must increase at the rate of 5.8% annually for fuelling the growth. Meeting this requirement is a challenge which needs to be addressed through an Integrated Energy Policy. The broad vision behind the Integrated Energy Policy is to reliably meet the demand for energy services of all sectors including the lifeline energy needs of vulnerable households in all parts of the country with safe, clean and convenient energy at the least-cost.
Salient features of the Policy:
ð Provide appropriate fiscal policies to take care of externalities and independent regulation to take care of anti-competitive market behaviour.
ð Both the tax structure and regulatory philosophy applied in each energy sector should be consistent with the overall energy policy should provide a level playing field to all players whether public or private.
ð Taxes should be neutral across energy sources except where differentials in taxation across energy sources are specifically intended to counter differential externalities, such as those reflecting environmental externalities.
ð Subsidies must be transparent and targeted. Consideration should be given to alternative means of achieving the social objectives sought to be achieved by energy subsidies.
ð Promote energy-efficiency by enforcing energy standards effectively.
ð PSUs operating in the energy sector must operate with autonomy and also full accountability to ensure incentives for adequate investment through their own resources and improvements in efficiency in energy production and distribution.
ð India will have to pursue all available fuel options and forms of energy and must seek to acquire new energy sources abroad.
ð India must actively promote technologies that maximise energy efficiency, demand side management, conservation and energy security and this must be done by encouraging domestic research into such technologies and free access to suitable energy related technologies available abroad.
ð For economic efficiency and for promoting optimal investment in energy, energy markets should be competitive wherever possible. Competitive markets would lead to trade parity prices ensuring that energy use and inter-fuel choices would be economically rational. But a truly competitive market requires that there are multiple producers and that there are no entry barriers to new producers or to imports.
ð Energy prices must send the right signal to producers and energy users to conserve energy and, where relevant, switch to preferred sources.
ð Prices of all commercial primary energy sources which are tradable should be set at trade parity prices at the point of sale.
ð A phased adjustment of domestic petroleum prices to trade parity prices must be undertaken in a relatively short period.
ð Coal prices should ideally be left to the market and trading of coal, nationally and internationally, should be free. Coal prices should be made fully variable based on Gross Calorific Value (GCV) and other quality parameters instead of the current system of pricing on the basis of broad bands of useful heat value.
ð Trade parity principles cannot be easily applied to Natural Gas because it requires significant investments in pipelines or, alternatively, in liquefaction, cryogenic shipping & re-gasification for trading. Natural gas price can be determined through competition among different producers where multiple sources and a competitive supply-demand balance exist.
ð Reduce technical and commercial losses in transmission and distribution utilities.
ð Separate the cost of the pure wires business (carriage) from the energy business (content) in both transmission and distribution.
ð All generation and transmission projects should be competitively built on the basis of tariff-based bidding.
ð Set multi-year tariffs and differentiate them by time of day tariff.
ð Incentives for promoting renewables should be linked to outcomes (energy generated) and not just outlays (capacity installed). Alternative incentive structures such as mandated feed-in-laws or differential tariffs or specifying renewable portfolio percentage in total supply would encourage utilities to integrate wind, small hydro, cogeneration etc. into their systems.
ð Fuel wood plantations, bio-gas plants, wood gasifier based power plants, bio-diesel and ethanol should be promoted.
ð Set-up a National Energy Fund (NEF) to finance R&D in Energy sector.
ð A number of technology missions including Solar Energy Mission should be mounted for developing near-commercial technologies and rolling out in a time bound manner new technologies that emphasise nationally relevant sources of energy.
ð Ensure energy security by
- lowering the requirement of energy,
- substituting imported fuels with alternatives,
- expanding the domestic energy resource base,
- maintaining reserve equivalent to 90 days of oil imports,
- building strategic stockpile of nuclear fuel to counter the risk of disruption of international fuel supply,
- acquiring energy assets abroad and setting up energy using industries such as fertiliser plants in energy rich countries.
ð Provide electricity to all rural households through Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) and clean cooking energy such as LPG, NG, biogas or kerosene to all within ten years.
ð Subsidy for electricity and cleaner fuels, kerosene or LPG to targeted households should be delivered through a system of debit card in phased manner.
ð A large scale socio-economic experiment should be financed to operate community sized bio-gas plants as a commercial enterprise either by a community cooperative or by a commercial entrepreneur. Bio-gas plants on this scale could meet the need for clean cooking energy of a sizable segment of the rural population.
ð Recommended initiatives would have effect on reducing the green house gas intensity of the economy by as much as by one third.

Law Commission Report

2008-12-31T03:02:00.000-08:00

The Law Commission of India has submitted to the Government of India, its 216th Report on “Non-feasibility of introduction of Hindi as compulsory language in the Supreme Court of India”. The Hon’ble Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Justice AR. Lakshmanan, former Supreme Court Judge, forwarded the said report to the Hon’ble Union Law Minister, Dr. H.R.Bhardwaj, on 17th December, 2008.

Committee envisage that Article 348 of the Constitution may be amended to enable the Legislative Department to undertake original drafting in Hindi. After the amendment of Article 348 of the Constitution, High Courts/Supreme Court should be asked to start delivering their judgments and decrees etc. in Hindi so that large number of Government Departments, who are carrying out judicial/ quasi-judicial functions, could be able to deliver orders in Hindi. At present, these departments are unable to pass orders in Hindi, because the appeal against their orders in High Courts/Supreme Court would have to be conducted in English.

The Commission has deeply gone into the views so obtained and has unanimously recommended that -
i) Language is a highly emotional issue for the citizens of any nation. It has a great unifying force and is a powerful instrument for national integration. No language should be thrust on any section of the people against their will since it is likely to become counter-productive.
ii) It is not merely a vehicle of thought and expression, but for Judges at the higher level, it is an integral part of their decision-making process. Judges have to hear and understand the submissions of both the sides, apply the law to adjust equities. Arguments are generally made in higher courts in English and the basic literature under the Indian system is primarily based on English and American text books and case laws. Thus, Judges at the higher level should be left free to evolve their own pattern of delivering judgments.
iii) It is particularly important to note that in view of the national transfer policy in respect of the High Court Judges, if any such Judge is compelled to deliver judgments in a language with which he is not well-versed, it might become extremely difficult for him to work judicially. On transfer from one part of the country to another, a High Court Judge is not expected to learn a new language at his age and to apply the same in delivering judgments.
iv) At any rate no language should be thrust upon the Judges of the higher judiciary and they should be left free to deliver their judgments in the language they prefer. It is important to remember that every citizen, every Court has the right to understand the law laid down finally by the Apex Court and at present one should appreciate that such a language is only English.
v) The use of English language also facilitates the movement of lawyers from High Courts to the Apex Court since they are not confronted with any linguistic problems and English remains the language at both the levels. Any survey of the society in general or its cross-sections will clearly substantiate the above proposition which does not admit of much debate, particularly in the present political, social and economic scenario.
vi) It may, however, be admitted that in so far as legislative drafting is concerned, every legislation although authoritatively enacted in English may have a Hindi authoritative translation along with the same at the central level. Same analogy may be applied even in respect of executive actions at the central level, but the higher judiciary should not be subjected to any kind of even persuasive change in the present societal context.

Major Policy Initiatives & decisions during 2008

2008-12-31T02:47:00.000-08:00

YEAR END REVIEW
The Department of Public Enterprises is the nodal department for all Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) and formulates policy pertaining to the role of CPSEs in the economy. The DPE also acts as the interface between the various Parliamentary and Government organizations and the CPSEs. There are 244 Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs), with a total investment of Rs.4,36,389 crore, 213 CPSEs under operation and 31 CPSEs at construction stage.

Corporate Governance
The Department of Public Enterprises, in association with Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE), hosted an International Conference on Corporate Governance in State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) in Asia held on 25th and 26th June, 2008 under the auspices of Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The 4th Directors’ Conclave on Corporate Governance was organized on 21st November, 2008. This Conclave was organized by Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE) in collaboration with Academy of Corporate Governance under the aegis of DPE.

Navratna Scheme
In 1997, the Government had initially identified nine Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) that had comparative advantages and potential to emerge as global giants as Navratnas. Three more CPSEs were granted Navratna status during the year 2007. The Navratna PSEs have been granted enhanced autonomy and delegation of powers to incur capital expenditure, formation of joint ventures/subsidiaries, effecting organizational restructuring, etc. During the year 2008, six more CPSEs, viz., National Aluminium Company Ltd., NMDC Ltd., Rural Electrification Corporation Ltd., Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd., Shipping Corporation of India Ltd., and Coal India Ltd. were granted Navratna status. Now, there are eighteen (18) CPSEs having Navratna.

Post –Retirement Employment of Top Level Executives of CPSEs
During the year, instructions were issued to the effect that Board level executives of CPSEs can undertake post-retirement employment after a period of one year as compared to 2 years earlier. The concerned administrative Ministry/Department has been empowered to take a final decision on the application(s) for granting permission to accept any appointment/post after retirement and communicate the same to the applicant within a time limit of 30 days.

Incentives for Chief Executives/Functional Directors of Sick/Loss Making CPSEs
The Government has issued guidelines relating to incentives to those Chief Executives/Functional Directors of sick/loss making CPSEs who have contributed exceedingly well in turn around of the such CPSEs. Such incentives will enable the Government to attract Board level executives capable of turning around loss making CPSEs and ensure successful implementation of the revival plan.

Memorandum of Understanding
147 CPSEs have signed MoU for the year 2008-09. Evaluation of MoU score of 112 CPSEs was done for the year 2007-08 on the basis of Audited data by concerned Syndicate Groups of the Task Force. Working Group on review of the MoU guidelines for CPSEs was constituted under the Chairmanship of Shri Ashok Chandra, Chairman, Task Force. The Working Group has submitted its Report which is under consideration. Conference of Secretaries in charge of State Level Public Sector Enterprises (SLPEs) was held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi on 10.12.2008. Preparation of an Annual Survey of SLPEs and introduction of the MoU system in State Level Public Sector Enterprises were deliberated in the Conference.

Wage Policy
The Second Pay Revision Committee (2nd PRC)
The Second Pay Revision Committee (2nd PRC), headed by Mr. Justice M. Jagannadha Rao, retired Judge, Supreme Court of India submitted its report to the Government on 30.05.2008. The recommendations of 2nd Pay Revision Committee were considered by Government. The orders for pay revision of executives and non unionised Supervisors of CPSEs w.e.f. 01.01.2007 were issued on 26.11.2008. The implementation of pay revision has been linked to affordability of the CPSEs. The new guidelines also provide that the revision of scales of pay for non-unionised supervisory staff may be decided by the respective Board of Directors of the CPSEs. The CPSE concerned has to bear the additional financial implications on account of pay revision from their own resources and no budgetary support will be provided.
The ceiling of Gratuity has been raised to Rs. 10 lakh w.e.f. 01.01.2007. An Anomalies Committee consisting of the Secretaries of Department of Public Enterprises, Department of Expenditure and Department of Personnel & Training has been constituted to look into further specific issues / problems that may happen in implementation of Government’s decision on the recommendations of 2nd PRC.

Variable Pay/Performance Related Pay
The Performance Related Pay (PRP) has been directly linked to the profits of the CPSEs/units and performance of the executives. The percentage ceiling of PRP progressively increasing from junior level to senior level executives, expressed as percentage of pay ranges from 40 to 200 per cent of basic pay.

Wage Policy for 7th round of wage negotiation for the workmen of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)
The wage policy in the 7th Round which generally falls due from 1.1.2007 has already been approved by the Government. Guidelines in this regard were issued on 09.11.2006. DPE vide its OM dated 01.05.2008 has further allowed administrative Ministries/ Department concerned with the CPSEs to take a decision on a case by case basis for the periodicity of Wage Settlement below 10 years but not less than 5 years, with the approval of their Minister.

Pay of employees under CDA pattern in CPSEs
On the basis of Governments decision on recommendations of 6th Central Pay Commission, the DPE has revised the pay scales of the employees of CPSEs following CDA pattern w.e.f. 01.01.2006. The benefit of pay revision would be applicable to the employees of those CPSEs that are not loss making and are in a position to absorb the additional expenditure on account of pay revision from their own resources without any budgetary support from the Government.

What is 3G ?

2008-08-01T23:49:00.000-07:00

* 3G is short for third-generation mobile telephony services.
* The technology is based on an International Telecommunication Union standard called IMT-2000.
* 3G phones work in higher bandwidths of 15-20 MHz, while currently available mobile phones are loosely regarded as 2G or 2.5G, and use 30-200 KHz bandwidth.
* Since the bandwidth for 3G is higher, it facilitates faster, better and simultaneous delivery of audio and non-audio data. 3G networks offer download speeds of 14.4 Mbits/second and uploads of 5.8 Mbits/second.
* Bandwidth is a measure of the width of a range of frequencies used while transferring data from one point to another, and is measured in hertz.
* While audio data is normally associated with telephone call, non-audio data comprise e-mail exchanges, instant messaging, and downloading information, all riding on the Internet.
* Now with 3G services telecom carriers will be able to provide video broadcast and other value-added services such as tele-medicine, mobile banking, stock transactions, e-learning etc, through wireless communications at a faster pace and with high quality.
* Various government services (e-governance) to the masses would be facilitated through the medium of mobile phone powered by a higher bandwidth of 3G.
* Acquiring 3G spectrum is expensive (Rs 1,600 crore for new licence holders according to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India). So a telecom carrier would like to capitalise by ensuring widespread usage of mobile telephony.
* 3G services were first launched by NTT DoCoMo of Japan in October 2001, followed by Korea in January 2002.
* As of December 2007, 190 3G networks were operating in 40 countries.
* There are about 225 million 3G subscribers worldwide today.

Guidelines for 3G and broadband wireless access (BWA)services announced

2008-08-01T07:50:00.000-07:00

A. Raja, Union Minister of Communications and Information Technology announced the detailed guidelines for 3G and BWA services laying down the road map for rolling out these services in the country on 1 August 2008.

With the introduction of these services, the quality of voice telephony will be improved as 3G spectrum would enable service providers to provide good quality services to a larger number of subscribers. Further, additional value added services will become widely available to the public. BWA services will ensure quick roll out and enhanced penetration of broadband especially in rural areas, where there is problem of last mile connectivity. It will facilitate availability of e-governance services like tele-medicine, e-medicine, e-ticketing, e-education etc, through broadband to the large section of rural population. Auctioning of 3G and Broadband spectrum will be done through e- auctioning by a specialized agency separately. New players would also be able to bid thus leading to technology innovation, more competition, faster roll out and ultimately greater choice for customers at competitive tariffs.

UNIDO International Solar Energy Centre

2008-08-01T07:47:00.000-07:00

Solar power is a promising energy source for developed and developing countries alike. The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) in the time of decreasing bio-fuels is concentrating on promoting renewable energy sources like solar energy in poor countries to help them achieve sustainable development.

UNIDO has memberships from more than 100 countries. This international community of especially industrialized nations after discussions felt that with the rapid development of the economy and the increasing demand of energy, energy and environment are fundamental for development. Therefore, the development and application of the renewable energy such as solar energy is the only solution for the sustainable development in the 21st century.

After deliberations over the past few years they realized the need to create one centre dedicated to renewable energy and particularly solar energy. They finally selected China as the home of the project. UNIDO International Solar Energy Centre for Technology Promotion and transfer is an international organization, signed and approved by representatives of UNIDO and Chinese government at Vienna on December 1st of 2005, and established on the basis of Gansu Natural Energy Research Institute.

On March 26th , 2006, UNIDO International Solar Energy Centre for Technology Promotion and Transfer was established at Lanzhou, capital of northwest China’s Gansu province, China. On December 28th , 2007 the building of international solar energy centre started to be built beside the Yellow River. The 14,000 square meter project is near the upper reaches of the Yellow river that runs through the city. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of this year. This centre is the second of its kind for UNIDO in China, after the organisation’s centre for Small Hydro Power in Hanghou in east China. The Gansu Natural Energy Research Institute is a leader in solar energy studies in China. It has received more than 20 awards for solar products and solutions.

The Chinese government is contributing about 8.5 million US dollars to the project. After its completion, the Centre will work with other UNIDO institutes and focus on transferring cutting-edge solar technology and providing related products to developing countries. It will also help these countries draft sustainable energy development plans. So far, the centre has trained about 700 technicians and officials. They are from 96 countries in five continents.

Besides, it has carried out various bilateral and multilateral cooperation on solar energy, including technology assistance projects. The general training program and discussions on technology will be mutual at the Centre understating individual needs. If a country shows interest in cooperation, the centre will hold further talks in its continuation. Experts from centre already had interaction with Tanzania to help them map out a solar energy development plan, on solar cookers and solar water heaters.

The use of solar photovoltaic technology for power generation enjoys a very bright future. This technology used to be applied in outer space, and now it can be used on the ground. The solar energy technology can also be incorporated into developing green buildings that use less energy. Green buildings should be able to absorb and store solar energy in daytime in winter, which could be used for heating at night. In the summertime, the buildings should free themselves from heat. That will save a lot of energy.

The UNIDO Centre provides a platform for developing countries to communicate and assist each other. One of the centre’s priorities will be to try to weave solar technology into people’s everyday lives, all over the world. People will be able to use solar technology for generating power. The centre aims to integrate the application and popularization of solar energy technology with the development of global economic development and elimination of poverty, to enhance the technological research, products application and popularization of developing countries to establish experiment and demonstration basis in developing countries, to establish experiment and demonstration bases in developing countries, to help and provide human resources training etc.

The centre commits itself to accelerate and transfer mature, practical and advanced solar energy technologies and other renewable energies, to organize joint study and research on new technologies and new products on solar energy application, to provide counseling as far as international standardized procedure and products certification procedure are concerned, to promote international cooperation and technological communication on utilization of solar energy among developing countries, to accelerate South-South cooperation and south-North cooperation progress, to hold technological training workshops and seminars on solar energy technologies internationally and nationally, to contribute the ecological environment protection and energy construction of human being. The centre primarily will work on development popularization and utilization of applicable technology of solar energy.

Many countries are working in the field of solar energy to develop economical solar chips and solar panels but it is still not viable for consumers at large. These problems and challenges which currently exist in the solar product market will be addressed. The centre will also help in planning of national energy, energy policies and regulations, research and development activities to meet market demands, exchange experiences of solar energy technologies and investment and financing for the renewable energies.

Mr. Satnam Singh assumes charge as CMD, PFC

2008-08-01T07:45:00.000-07:00

Personality of the Week
Mr. Satnam Singh has taken over as Chairman & Managing Director of Govt-owned Power Finance Corporation Ltd (PFC) on 1st August, 2008. Mr. Satnam Singh, is a Graduate in Commerce and an MBA in Finance. Prior to his appointment in PFC as CMD, Mr. Satnam Singh held the position of Director (F&FO) of PFC.
In addition, he handled various responsibilities such as Business Development, Loan disbursement, Financial & Legal operations. He was also instrumental in successful completion of IPO in February 2007 with over subscription of 76 times which is an all time high for a public sector company.
Mr. Satnam Singh has over 28 years of experience in the power and financial sectors including NTPC and SJVNL. He assumed Board level position in PFC as Director (F&FO) at the age of 47 years and led the Company on profitable growth track resulting in consistent dividend payment to its shareholders. His other assignments include representing PFC on the Board of PTC, Chairman of Coastal Andhra Power Limited (Krishnampattna UMPP), Chairman of Jharkhand Integrated Power Limited (Tilaiya UMPP). Mr. Satnam Singh’s outstanding professional career is preceded by an equally sparkling performance in academics - Topped Punjab in Higher Secondary (Commerce), Gold Medal in first year of graduation in Commerce. Apart from his professional credentials, he is a graduate in Indian Classical Music (Tabla) as well as Landmark Forum, which aims at transforming individuals into extra ordinary individuals. He has also achieved proficiency in yogic exercises.

‘TREAD’ Scheme for women’s Empowerment

2008-07-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

Dena Bank with headquarters at Mumbai has signed an MoU with the Development Commissioner, Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) for operating the Trade Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development (TREAD) Scheme for women as a lending agency here today.

Shri K.S. Ludu, Additional Development Commissioner, MSME and Shri Anandilal, General Manager, Dena Bank signed the MoU.

Women are among the most disadvantaged section of the society with regard to access to and control over resources not only in villages but also in urban areas. In order to address their problems, Government of India launched this TREAD scheme. The scheme envisages economic empowerment of women through trade related training, information and counseling extension activities related to trades, products, services etc. Under the scheme loans are provided to women through NGOs who are also provided grant for capacity building.

This assistance is to provide for self-employment ventures by women for pursuing any kind of non-farm activity. Apart from counseling and training, delivery of credit poses the most serious problem for the women entrepreneurs. The Scheme is fully women specific and provides for grants up to 30% of the total project cost released to financial institutions who become partners in implementation of the scheme. Many major banks have already joined and operating the scheme as lending agencies. Some other banks are also expected to join the scheme shortly.

Rs. 649 crore allocated for Flood Management during 2008-09

2008-07-25T08:10:00.000-07:00

A Budget outlay of Rs. 649 crore has been made for the “Flood Management Programme” during the current financial year 2008-09. During the financial year 2007-08, the Empowered Committee approved 239 flood control/ river management schemes of 12 states, with a total estimated cost of Rs. 1307 crore.

Central Assistance amounting to Rs. 107.82 crore (including release for spilled over works of 10th Plan) released to states during 2007-08. The Central Assistance amounting to Rs. 133.46 Crore towards these schemes has been released during 2008-09.For considering new schemes in the financial year 2008-09, second meeting of the Empowered Committee is being arranged, in which eligible proposals received from the states will be considered.

“Flood Management Programme” a state sector scheme amounting to Rs.8,000 crore under Central Plan has been approved in principle to provide central assistance to the state governments during 11th plan period (2007-2012). The proposals for river management, flood control, anti-erosion works, drainage development, flood proofing, flood prone area development programme, restoration of damaged flood management works, etc. which have secured all mandatory clearances, would be considered for funding under this scheme.

The inter-se priority of the flood management, anti-erosion, sea erosion, drainage development, flood proofing works are decided by a Committee headed by Secretary (Expenditure), depending upon the critical/emergent situation and the availability of annual budget/ plan outlay. No specific share of a particular state is defined under this scheme. The Central assistance is being provided to the state government on the following funding pattern: For special category States - 90% central share : 10% state share, (The Special Category States cover the North Eastern States, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand.) For non-special category States - 75% central share : 25% state share. For restoration of damaged works, the central assistance would be provided as 90% central share: 10% state share to all the States.

Tapan Sinha Awarded Dada Saheb Phalke Award for 2006

2008-07-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

Eminent Film Director Shri Tapan Sinha has been selected for the Dada saheb Phalke Award for the year 2006. The award is given by the Government of India for outstanding contribution in the field of Indian Cinema.

The Award carries a cash price of Rs.Ten lakhs, a Swaran Kamal and a Shawl.

Shri Tapan Sinha’s work has won 19 National Film Awards in various categories apart from laurels in international film festivals like those in Berlin, Venice, London, Moscow, San Francisco and Locarno. He began his film career as a sound engineer in Kolkata’s New Theatre in 1946.. In 1950, he got the opportunity of working a Pinewood Studios in the UK where he spent two years. On returning to India, he turned his attention to film directing, making films in Bengali, Hindi and also Oriya.

He made three films based on Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s works: Kabuliwala, Khudito Pashan and Atithi. Shri Sinha’s cinematic landscape traverses a journey that began with Ankush (1954) and highlighted by Upahar (1955), Tonsil (1956), Louhakapat (1957), Kalomati (1957), Hansuli Banker Upakatha (1962), Sagina Mahato (1970), Banchharamer Bagan (1980), Adalat O Ekti Meye (1982), Ek Doctor Ki Maut (1991) and Shatabdir Kanya (2001).

Tapan Sinha’s cinematic works are amazingly down-to-earth depiction of the struggles of the common man. His reputation as an uncompromising filmmaker, a celluloid iconoclast, puts him in a class of his own. The Government of India had recently conferred on him the “One Time Award for Life Time Achievement to Commemorate the 60th anniversary of India’s Independence. The Committee consisting of eminent film personalities Shri Shyam Benegal , Shri Gautam Ghosh, Dr. A.Nageshwar Rao, Smt. Sharmila Tagore and renowned Flute Player Shri Hari Prasad Chaurasia made the recommendation to the Government.

Common Service Centres in villages

2008-07-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

Over 10,300 Common Service Centre (CSC) have been set up in eight States to provide the rural population in remote areas with a mix of government, private and social sector services. The services which are the initiatives of the Department of Information Technology are both IT based and non-IT based.

The states are Jharkhand, Haryana, West Bengal, Bihar, Tripura, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh. The Centres have come up as part of the Government’s plan to establish one lakh Common Service Centres (CSCs) in six lakh villages in the country. The establishment of most of the Centres is likely to be completed by next year. The Scheme has been approved at a total cost of Rs 5742 Cr. over 4 years, of which the Government of India is to contribute Rs 856 Cr. and the State Governments Rs 793 Cr. The balance resources would be mobilized from the private sector.

The Common Service Centres are ICT-enabled Kiosks having a PC along with basic support equipment like Printer, Scanner, UPS, with Wireless Connectivity as the backbone and additional equipment for edutainment, telemedicine, projection systems, etc. The contracts for setting up of the Centres are given through a bidding process by the respective state governments. It takes about twelve months for execution of the contract.

The Scheme is being implemented through a Public Private Partnership. CSCs constitute one of the three pillars of the National e-Governance Plan for enabling anytime anywhere delivery of government services, the other two being (a) the State Wide Area Network (for Connectivity) which has already been approved by the Government for Rs 3334 Cr. and b) the State Data Centre Scheme (for secure hosting of data and applications) for which implementation committees have been formed in several states. Department of Information Technology (DIT) has appointed a National Level Service Agency (NLSA), to coordinate the entire activity.

Vishnugad Pipalkoti HEP

2008-07-25T07:59:00.000-07:00

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs gave its approval for implementation of Vishnugad Pipalkoti HEP (4X111 MW) at an estimated cost of Rs.2491.58 crore including Interest During Construction and Financial charges of Rs.366.83 crore at March 2008 PL(with Debt:Equity Ratio of 70:30) by Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Ltd., a Joint Venture Corporation of the Government of India and Government of Uttar Pradesh.
The Project shall be commissioned by June 2013
Obtaining Carbon Emission Reduction credits under the Clean Development Mechanism of the Kyoto Protocol, which would further improve the economic viability of the Project. The project would contribute towards Capacity addition and would help in reducing the peaking and energy shortage in the Northern Region and would also improve the hydro improve the hydro thermal mix in the country.
The Vishnugad Pipalkoti HEP is situated in Chamoli district of Uttarkhand on river Alaknanda, a major tributary of Ganga. The Project is located on NH-58 and is about 225 km from Rishikesh.

Merger of State Bank of Saurashtra with State Bank of India

2008-07-25T07:57:00.000-07:00

Merger of State Bank of Saurashtra with SBI would enable it to up-scale in terms of footprint, manpower and other resources. It would also enable it to face competition arising from globalization of the economy, apart from augmenting efficiency and enabling better management of risk.

‘Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine'

2008-07-25T07:55:00.000-07:00

Establishment of an institute for ‘Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine” at Bangalore, Karnatak The decision for establishment of Institute will help in developing policies relating to stem cell technologies, identify needs, facilitate conseptualization and design of new technologies.

National Institute of Plant Health Management

2008-07-25T07:50:00.000-07:00

Strengthening of the National Plant Protection Training Institute by restructuring it as an autonomous society and renaming it as National Institute of Plant Health Management

The Union Cabinet on 25th July 2008 gave its approval to converting National Plant Protection Training Institute (NPPTI), Hyderabad into an autonomous agency namely National Institute of Plant Health Management (NIPM) by registering it under the Registration of Societies Act, 1860.

It also approved the funding of the full recurring and non-recurring costs of the Institute for ten years, by which time the institute will be self sufficient and provide plan assistance to the tune of Rs.29.40 crore during the 11th Five Year Plan. The Registration of NIPM as a Society will enable autonomous functioning and effective capacity building in the sector. To meet the emerging training needs and in order to function as a center of excellence in support of the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage/Department of Agriculture & Cooperation in the matters of bilateral/multilateral negotiations on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) matters, plant protection activities and providing training capability to private sector and farmers, it has been proposed that NPPTI should take the form of an autonomous body by the name “National Institute for Plant Health Management”. It would function as a policy support center in all SPS matters and also to create adequate capacity, both in public and private sectors, to meet the growing challenges of non-tariff barriers in the form of SPS issues and also protecting the country’s agro-ecosystem from alien pests and diseases.

South Asian Regional Standards Organization (SARSO)

2008-07-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

The Union Cabinet on 25th July gave its approval for signing of the Agreement on the establishment of the South Asia Regional Standards Organisation (SARSO) during the forthcoming 15th SAARC Summit to be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka on 2nd - 3rd August 2008. This Agreement is expected to enhance the level of our economic engagements with the SAARC countries by envisaging regional cooperation on standards, quality control and legal metrology amongst SAARC countries. The Agreement would also promote trade besides development of quality infrastructure in the entire region.

National Water Policy

2008-07-25T07:46:00.000-07:00

Backgrounder :

The National Water Policy – 2002 was adopted by the National Water Resources Council under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister of India in its 5th meeting held on 1st April, 2002. The Council was set up by the Government in March 1983.

The Prime Minister is the Chairman, the Union Minister for Water Resources is the Vice Chairman and concerned Union Ministers, the Minister of State for Water Resources, the Chief Ministers for all the States and Lieutenant Governors/Administrators of the Union Territories are the Members. Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources is the Secretary of the Council.

The salient features of the National Water Policy – 2002 are as under:

• Water is a precious national resource and its planning, development and management should be governed by national perspectives.

• A well developed information system for water related data at national/state level should be established with a net-work of data banks and data bases integrating and strengthening the existing central and state level agencies.

• Water resources development and management will have to be planned for a hydrological unit. Appropriate river basin organisations should be established for the planned development and management of the river basins.

• Water should be made available to water short areas by transfer from other areas including transfer from one river basin to another, after taking into account the requirements of the areas/basins.

• Planning of water resources development projects should, as far as possible, be for multi-purpose with an integrated and multi-disciplinary approach having regard to human and ecological aspects including those of disadvantaged sections of the society.

• In the allocation of water, first priority should be given for drinking water, followed by irrigation, hydro-power, ecology, agro-industries and non-agricultural industries, navigation and other uses, in that order.

• The exploitation of groundwater should be regulated with reference to recharge possibilities and consideration of social equity. The detrimental environmental consequences of over-exploitation of ground water need to be effectively prevented.

• Careful planning is necessary to ensure that construction and rehabilitation activities proceed simultaneously. A skeletal national policy on resettlement & rehabilitation needs to be formulated such that project affected persons share the benefits through proper rehabilitation.

• Adequate emphasis needs to be given to the physical and financial sustainability of existing water resources facilities. There is need to ensure that the water charges for various uses should be fixed such as to cover at least the operation and maintenance charges initially and a part of the capital costs subsequently.

• Management of the water resources for diverse uses should incorporate a participatory approach by involving users and other stakeholders alongwith various governmental agencies, in an effective and decisive manner.

• Private sector participation should be encouraged in planning, development and management of water resources projects for diverse uses, wherever feasible.

• Both surface water and ground water should be regularly monitored for quality. Effluents should be treated to acceptable levels and standards before discharging them into natural streams. Minimum flow should be ensured in the perennial streams for maintaining ecology.

• Efficiency of utilization should be improved in all the diverse uses of water and conservation consciousness promoted through education, regulation, incentives and disincentives.

• There should be a Master Plan for flood control and management for each flood prone basin. In flood control and management, the strategy should be to reduce the intensity of floods.

• Land erosion by sea or river should be minimized by suitable cost-effective measures. Indiscriminate occupation of, and economic activity in coastal areas and flood plain zones should be regulated.

• Needs of drought-prone areas should be given priority in the planning of project for development of water resources. These areas should be made less vulnerable through various measures.

• The water sharing/distribution amongst the states should be guided by a national perspective with due regard to water resources availability and needs within the river basin.

• Training and research efforts should be intensified as an integral part of water resources development.

Decision to Boost Rural Telephony & E-Governance

2008-07-25T07:44:00.000-07:00

Licence fee to be waived on Rural Landline Telephones Telecom Commission
The Telecom Commission has decided to waive license fee on rural landline telephones in an effort to promote telephone use in rural areas. The decision is also intended to give a boost to e-governance through provision of more broadband services in villages, thus reducing the digital divide. The waiver will amount to 200 crores rupees per year.
The decision was taken in the recent meeting of the Telecom Commission, Department of Telecommunications in New Delhi. The Telecom Commission also decided to reduce the Levy towards the Universal Service Obligation (USO) from the present 5 per cent to 3 per cent of the Adjusted Ground Revenue (AGR) in the case of those telecom service providers who have already covered more than 95 per cent of rural areas. The Universal Service Obligation Fund has been set up to create infrastructure support in rural and remote areas for providing telecommunications service to people at affordable and reasonable prices.
The latest decisions of the Telecom Commission are in line with the Government’s policy of promotion of rural telephony and accessibility of telephone in remote areas. The aim is to achieve rural teledensity of 25 per cent by means of 200 million rural connections at the end of the 11th Plan. The rural teledensity stood at 8 per cent as on December 31, 2007.

Central Scheme for Assistance to Victims of Terrorist and Communal Violence Formulated

2008-07-25T07:41:00.000-07:00

The Centre has formulated detailed guidelines for implementing the Central Scheme for Assistance to Victims of Terrorist and Communal Violence. The guidelines have been sent to the States and Union Territories. The Scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet in March 2008.

The broad aim of the scheme is to assist victims of terrorist violence and communal violence. Under the scheme, financial assistance of Rs. 3 lakh is admissible to the family member(s) in the event of death or permanent incapacitation of the victim who was the bread-winner/householder of the family. The principal amount would be put in a fixed deposit account [Joint or Single in the name of the Family member(s)] in a nationalized bank. (If there is no nationalized bank within the vicinity of the residence of the beneficiary, account may be opened in any scheduled commercial bank.) It would have a minimum lock-in period of 3 years or, if there are only minor children in the family, till the eldest child attains the age of majority, whichever is later.

The interest on the sum would be credited directly by the bank to the beneficiary’s saving account on a quarterly basis. Families of the victims would be eligible to get assistance under the scheme even if they have received any other assistance, by way of payment of ex-gratia or any other type of relief from the Government or any other source, except when a similar scheme is already being implemented by the Central Government.

In addition, those permanently incapacitated, and the members of the family of the victims killed/permanently incapacitated in terrorist or communal violence would also be given a health card by the District Health Society, functioning under the National Rural Health Mission. This card would entitle them to free medical treatment in respect of injuries due to violence and all other major illnesses. Medical care will also be provided to the beneficiaries of the scheme as a special case under the on-going schemes of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, viz., Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi and the National Trauma Care Project.

A District level Committee, under the Chairmanship of District Magistrate/ Collector/Dy. Commissioner, and having as its members the District Superintendent of Police, District Medical Officer, District Social Welfare Officer, District Child and Women Development Officer and an officer who may be nominated by the State Government would identify beneficiaries and verify their eligibility for assistance under the scheme. The District Committee would, so far as possible, make its recommendation within one month of receipt of claim for assistance to victims/family of terrorist or communal violence. MHA would examine the case in terms of fulfillment of conditions for grant of assistance under the Scheme.

Women's empowerment

2008-07-25T07:34:00.000-07:00

The President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil met a group of eminent women to discuss issues related to women's empowerment. The eminent women were Prof. Amita Singh (Educationist), Justice (Retd) Smt. Leela Seth (Former Chief Justice of Himachal Pradesh), Dr. Vijayalakshmi Ravindranath (Scientist, Professor), Dr. Ranjana Kumari (Women's Welfare), Smt. Prema Cariappa (Social Welfare), Dr. (Smt.) Mohini Giri (Social Welfare), Smt. Tesse Thomas (Scientist), Dr. (Smt.) Kapila Vatsyanan (Member of Parliament and Scholar), Smt. Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee (Social Worker) and Dr. (Smt.) Shyamalha Pappu (Lawyer).

Women played an important role in our Freedom Movement and in the post Independence era, the have begun to make a mark on national life especially through the Panchayati Raj Movement, which is a landmark. However, although women in urban environments have made their mark in society, women in our rural areas continue to face difficulties.

* The efficient implementation of laws, which give women their rights as well as the delivery mechanism of these laws.
* The role of NGOs and their initiatives.
* Women with experience on such issues should give a feed back on how best to empower women and to work together to fulfill the aspirations and ambitions of women.

Various suggestions:
* database on women Ph. Ds, who are not working, as many of them cannot pursue careers due to family commitments. These women are human resources, which is lost to the nation.
* Similarly, the need to utilise women agricultural scientists, ways in which out of the box solutions can be found for them to pursue their careers without sacrificing family duties, such as flexi career planning, the need to change mindsets in work places and in families.

Other issues:
* The issue of national policy for war widows,
* Providing free education to children affected by insurgency in the North East and terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir,
* The need to sensitise teachers in Municipal schools to gender issues,
* Mainstreaming of children from the North East and Jammu and Kashmir into the national mainstream,
* The need for awakening the male population to the gender issues regarding women,
* More educational opportunities for women and their utilization,
* Problems of women in rural areas and the mapping of districts in which twenty to thirty percent of girls are literate so that they can be identified for specially focused programmes.

Centrally sponsored Scheme on National Mission on Medicinal Plants

2008-07-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs gave its approval for the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Mission on Medicinal Plants at a total outlay of Rs.630 crore for implementation through National Medicinal Plants Board, through Deptt. of Ayush during the 11th Plan.
The Mission, by 2011-12 proposes to cover 80,000 – 1,00,000 ha. Of land under medicinal plants through direct financial assistance for cultivation and an almost equal area which will be covered by incentivisation of farmers who may switch over from traditional crops to medicinal plants in areas where infrastructure for quality planting material, processing, warehousing, marketing, quality testing and certification is promoted through cooperatives of growers, self help groups, corporate etc.
About 200 nurseries will be established both in public and private sector, for making available planting material of certified quality. The interventions are expected to generate approximately 6 crores mandays of employment by the year 2011-12. The approval would benefit in developing medicinal plants sector through production of raw material of quality and standardized constituents for use by the AYUSH/Herbal industry and as well as for exports and thereby enhance the quality and acceptability of AYUSH systems of medicine and promote export of value added items for a increased share in the world market.

‘Potential and Existing Ramsar Sites in India’

2008-07-25T07:21:00.000-07:00

The Vice President of India Shri Mohd. Hamid Ansari, released the book ‘Potential and Existing Ramsar Sites in India’ authored by Dr. Asad R. Rahmani, Director of Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and Mr. M. Zafar-Ul-Islam, currently with the National Wildlife Research Centre in Saudi Arabia.

India is blessed with immense biological and ecological diversity. These include marine wetlands including coastal lagoons, rocky shores and coral reefs; estuarine wetlands including deltas, tidal marshes and mangrove swamps; wetlands associated with lakes; riverine wetlands; and marshy wetlands. In addition, there are large human-made wetlands including ponds, irrigated agricultural land, salt pans, reservoirs and canals. These wetlands are important for our survival and prosperity.
There are currently 25 existing Ramsar sites that are deemed to be wetlands of international importance. The number of these Ramsar sites in India, the area they cover and the bio-geographical regions that they represent do not do justice to the existing biodiversity in the country. The effort of Dr Asad Rahmani and Mr. Zafar-ul Islam in identifying potential Ramsar sites in India is worthy of appreciation.

The book identifies and describes 25 existing and 135 potential wetlands in India that qualify for designation as ‘Wetlands of International Importance’ commonly known as ‘Ramsar Sites’.

As a contracting party to the Ramsar Convention since 1981 India has designated a total of 25 Ramsar sites. This small number does not represent the diversity of wetland habitats found in India.

The beautiful coastal city of Ramsar in Caspian Sea is in Iran. It was there that the Intergovernmental Convention on Wetlands was adopted in 1971. The place is an eloquent testimony to the importance of water bodies for the evolution of mankind and for advancement of human civilisation.

The official name of the Ramsar treaty, “The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat”, reflects the initial focus on the conservation of wetlands primarily as a habitat for water birds. It is heartening that the Convention has since widened its focus to cover the entire gamut of wetland conservation and wise use. This is in tune with the recognition of wetlands as ecosystems that are vital for conserving our biodiversity and for the well-being of humanity. The Convention also represents one of the first global treaties devoted to the conservation and sustainable utilisation of natural resources. Global freshwater consumption rose over six-fold in the last century and this is more than double the rate of population growth.

One third of the world's population today lives in countries experiencing moderate to high water stress. By 2025, two out of every three people on Earth may well face water stressed conditions. The need to conserve wetlands is more pressing than ever. India is blessed with immense biological and ecological diversity. These include marine wetlands including coastal lagoons, rocky shores and coral reefs; estuarine wetlands including deltas, tidal marshes and mangrove swamps; wetlands associated with lakes; riverine wetlands; and marshy wetlands. In addition, there are large human-made wetlands including ponds, irrigated agricultural land, salt pans, reservoirs and canals.

These wetlands are important for our survival and prosperity. There are currently 25 existing Ramsar sites that are deemed to be wetlands of international importance. The number of these Ramsar sites in India, the area they cover and the bio-geographical regions that they represent do not do justice to the existing biodiversity in the country.

Red Jungle Fowl

2008-07-25T07:08:00.000-07:00

A Specialist Group to prepare an Action Plan for the conversation of Red Jungle Fowl is under consideration. Red Jungle Fowl is an important species as it is considered the real ancestor of domestic chicken. On the basis of lesser sightings of the bird in its natural habitat, a decline in its population appears to have taken place No scientific study on population estimate of Red Jungle Fowl is available. However, considering fewer sightings, National Board of Wildlife approved the creation a specialist group. Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun has also taken up a research project on conservation of Red Jungle Fowl.

'Roshini Project'

2008-07-25T07:06:00.000-07:00

The President of India, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil inaugurated the 'Roshini Project', in the President's Estate at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 25 July 2008. This Project will add another dimension to the President's Estate and urged the residents to take part in the Project to make it a success. Smt. Patil said the environment is a subject of great discussion around the world and this is a timely Project contributing to the improvement of environment.

The 'Roshini Project', is an initiative that aims at making the President's Estate a green and an environmental friendly place in which good practices of conservation and efficient use of resources are encouraged and which can be an ideal for other townships in the country. The programmes of water conservation, waste-water recycling, promotion of eco-friendly products, protection of environment, judicious use of non-renewable sources of water/energy and promotion of renewable sources, protection of our flora and fauna are all aimed at not only making the quality of life for the resident's of the President's Estate, more meaningful and better but also to showcase these to the visitors to our estate. A Nature Trail is also planned under this project. This endeavour is a part of a bigger initiative to create awareness amongst our citizens on the larger issues of climate change and its impact on our plant.

Rice sown in over170 lakh hectare

2008-07-25T06:57:00.000-07:00

Sowing of kharif food crops is progressing satisfactorily. Rice, the most important kharif foodgrain crop, has been planted in 28% more area as compared to that planted by this time last year. Total area under coarse grains has also gone up. Area under pulses and oilseeds is lower as compared to last season. However, with the monsoon reviving over central parts of the country, the area under these crops is likely to increase. The cropped areas this year and last year for major kharif crops are as follows:
lakh* hectare
Crop and This year’s area [as on 25th July]
Rice 170.1
Jowar 13.4
Bajra 40.3
Maize 41.0
Total of coarse cereals 99.5
Groundnut 34.9
Soybean 85.4
Total of oilseeds 134.5
Arhar 19.6
Urad 14.6
Moong 17.0
Total of pulses 63.8
Cotton 69.7
Sugarcane 43.7
Jute 8.6
*: 10 lakh= 1 million

STATUS OF RGGVY

2008-04-27T07:42:00.000-07:00

For attaining the goal of providing access to electricity to all the rural households and electrification of about 1.15 lakh un-electrified villages, the Govt. has accorded approval of Rs.28000 crore as capital subsidy for continuation of RGGVY during 11th Plan period in addition to Rs. 5000 crore allocated in 10th Plan.

To achieve the target within the stipulated timeframe, the following steps have been taken.

• For effective and expeditious implementation of RGGVY, besides constant follow up & persuasion, periodic review meetings are being conducted by Ministry of Power and REC with the concerned State Govts., Implementing agencies and CPSUs for taking all suitable actions to ensure timely completion of the projects.

• The Monitoring Committee, in addition to sanctioning 235 projects for implementation during 10th Plan period has approved 316 projects for execution during 11th Plan period.

• De-centralised Distributed Generation (DDG) and supply has been brought under the ambit of RGGVY with an initial allocation of Rs.540 crores.

• Grant amount of BPL connection has been enhanced to Rs.2200/- from Rs.1500/-.

To take care of the cost escalation, cost norms for village electrification have been revised upwards.

To ensure qualitative execution of RE works, a three tier quality control mechanism has been provided under RGGVY.

An amount of Rs.5000 crore was allocated for implementation of Phase-I of RGGVY during 10th Plan period . Funds under RGGVY are released in installment commensurating with the progress reported by the implementing agencies as also fulfillment of conditionality including certification by the implementing agencies/states that 80% of the funds released earlier have been utilized.

Based on the claims received from the implementing agencies/states, an amount of Rs.4959 crore was utilized by the states implementing RGGVY during 10th Plan period. Hence the entire amount earmarked under RGGVY for X Plan has been disbursed.

CHANDRAPURA THERMAL POWER PLANT

2008-04-27T07:36:00.000-07:00

The Government of Maharashtra has given approval for Chandrapura Thermal Power Project (2x500) MW.

As per the information received from Maharashtra Government, initially 55 sugar factories will be benefited. An investment of about Rs.4000/- crore is required for the project. Equity from sugar factories was 10% of the project cost out of which 50% would be made available from green cess and balance 50% would be contributed by the sugar factories. Soft loan from Sugar Development Fund is 30% and the remaining 60% will be raised as loan from financial institutions.

The project is likely to be completed within 3 years. The following benefits would accrue from the project:

(i) Sugar factories get extra revenue by selling power.

(ii) Sugar factories may get Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) benefit.

(iii) Load shedding is minimized in rural areas.

(iv) Job opportunities in rural areas.

(v) Farmers can get benefit of additional cane price.

POLAVARAM PROJECT

2008-04-27T07:34:00.000-07:00

As per the information provided by the project authority to Ministry of Environment & Forests (MOEF) at the time of seeking environmental clearance, 6315 persons from Orissa are likely to be affected by this project. The area of Orissa likely to be submerged is 12 sq.km.

Expert Committee of the Ministry of Environment & Forests had examined this issue and suggested to provide rehabilitation and resettlement as per Andhra Pradesh Government's Resettlement and Rehabilitation Policy 2005 which was better than National Policy on Resettlement & Rehabilitation 2003.

IMPROVEMENT IN DRAINAGE SYSTEM

2008-04-27T07:31:00.000-07:00

The Government of India would provide funds for drainage development schemes in critical areas under "Flood Management Programme"- a state sector scheme during XI Plan, for which detailed guidelines for providing central assistance to the State Governments have already been issued by the Ministry of Water Resources on 27.12.2007to all states.

A scheme namely 'Improvement of South Saraswati River (both upper & lower portion) from offtake (chainage 0.00) at Nasibpur, Distt. Hooghly to outfall (chainage 1410.00) at Sankrail, Distt. Howrah' has been received from the Government of West Bengal and included under "Flood Management Programme" for central assistance. 1st installment of Rs.1.00 crore has been released to the State Government of West Bengal by Ministry of Finance on 31.3.2008.

POWER GENERATION : 11TH PLAN

2008-04-27T07:24:00.000-07:00

The following steps have been taken for timely commissioning of 11th Plan generation projects:

**According to information received from Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), it has enhanced its capacity to deliver 10,000 MW of main plant equipment per annum. Furthermore, they have put in place an action plan to enhance capacity to deliver 15,000 MW per annum by December, 2009.

**A Joint Venture Agreement has been signed between NTPC Ltd. and BHEL to take up work related to Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) for power plants and other infrastructure projects. NTPC Ltd. has also entered into an MoU with Bharat Forge Limited to promote a joint venture company initially to take up the manufacture of castings, forgings, fittings and high pressure pipings.

**Private sector power equipment manufacturers have also set up power generation equipment manufacture facilities.

**All stakeholders have been sensitized towards enlarging the vendor base so as to meet the Balance of Plants (BoP) requirements.

**To address the issue of shortage of manpower, Ministry of Power has taken ¡¥Adopt an Industrial Training Institute (ITI)¡¦ initiative and power project developers have been asked to adopt an ITI in the vicinity of the project area to build the skilled and semi-skilled work force required for the projects.

**There is an acute shortage of gas for power projects. Only those gas based projects have been taken up for which gas has already been tied up. An additional capacity of 13,000 MW gas based projects is feasible only if gas is made available at reasonable price.

**The monitoring mechanism has been made more robust. The Central Electricity Authority has got a nodal official associated with each on-going project who continuously monitors the progress at site through frequent visits and continuous interaction. A Power Project Monitoring Panel (PPMP) comprising of 7 independent monitoring consultants is also being operationalised.

HIGH COST SOLAR POWER

2008-04-27T03:34:00.000-07:00

COST OF 1 MW SOLAR POWER PLANT BETWEEN RS. 16 TO RS.20 CRORE

The estimated capital cost of setting up a Solar Power Plant is in the range of Rs.16crore to Rs. 20 crore per MW. The cost of generation is around Rs.12 to Rs.15 per unit, depending upon technology efficiency etc.

The Government is taken several steps in order to make solar energy systems more cost effective. They include Research and Development, improve the efficiency and performance of solar energy systems, incentives to manufacturers and others and subsidy to encourage utilization of solar energy systems.

MAIZE HYBRIDS BEING POPULARISED

2008-04-27T03:31:00.000-07:00

Government is implementing a Centrally Sponsored Integrated Scheme of Oilseeds, Pulses, Oilpalm and Maize (ISOPOM) in 15 major maize producing states in the country with effect from 01.04.2004 to increase the production and productivity of maize and also to supplement the nutritional needs of children and the poor.

With a view to enhancing the productivity of maize, high yielding varieties and hybrids of maize including High Quality Protein Maize (HQPM) are being promoted under the scheme.

The hybrids viz. HQPM-1, HQPM-5, Shaktiman-1, Shaktiman-2, Shaktiman-3, Shaktiman-4 of Quality Protine Maize (QPM) have been released for cultivation on the farmers’ field in the country.

Further, in order to popularize the public sector maize hybrids, the seed minikits of maize hybrids are made available to the states under seed minikits component of ISOPOM for distribution amongst farmers free of cost.

RURAL ELECTRIFICATION

2008-04-27T03:26:00.000-07:00

MORE THAN 4000 REMOTE VILLAGES AND HAMLETS ELECTRIFIED

The implementation of various programmes of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has resulted in the installation of over 11,000 MW grid interactive renewable power and 208 MW equivalent off grid distributed renewable power by the end of 2007.

Under the centralized energy systems 39.4 lakh family type biogas plants, 71,000 SPV street lighting systems, 4.03 lakhs SPV home lighting systems, 7.05 lakh solar lanterns, 7148 SPV pumps, 6.17 lakh solar cookers and 2.3 million Sq. Meter collector area for solar water heating systems have been installed. 3368 remote villages and 830 hamlets have been electrified through renewable energy so far.

The Ministry is promoting deployment of various new and renewable energy systems as well as devices through several measures.

FARM SECTOR GROWTH

2008-04-27T03:24:00.000-07:00

STEPS TO RAISE FARM SECTOR GROWTH

The Mid Term Appraisal of the Tenth Five Year Plan had drawn attention to the loss of dynamism in agriculture and allied sector after the mid 1990s. The growth rate of agricultural GDP during Tenth Five Year Plan was less than the target of 4% per annum.

However, in the last two years of the Tenth Plan i.e. 2005-06 and 2006-07, agriculture sector recorded an average growth rate of 4.35%. However, for revitalization of agriculture and allied sector, Government of India has approved the National Policy for Farmers 2007, with provisions which, inter alia include, asset reforms in respect of land, water, livestock, fisheries and bio-resources; support services and inputs like application of frontier technologies for improving productivity in a sustainable manner; the agricultural bio-security system; supply of good quality seeds and disease-free planting material; measures to improve soil health and integrated nutrient and pest management system etc.

In addition, Government has launched two new Schemes namely, National Food Security Mission (NFSM) to improve production and productivity of foodgrains and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) with an objective to incentivise the states so as to increase public investment in agriculture and allied sector and to provide flexibility and autonomy to states in the process of planning and executing agriculture and allied sector schemes.

Besides, a number of initiatives, plan schemes and programmes have been taken up which include National Bamboo Mission, National Horticulture mission, Micro Irrigation, Integrated Nutrient Management and Integrated Pest Management and schemes covered under Macro Management of Agriculture.

The research priorities of XI Plan include adaptation of agriculture to climate change, availability of quality seed, enhancing water and input use efficiency and conservation of natural resources through conservation agriculture.

Emphasis is being laid on the use of modern tools including biotechnology, marker assisted breeding, hybrid technology etc. The research focus is on basic and strategic research and addressing issues from production to consumption system, sustainable livelihood security in disadvantaged area.

To generate regionally differentiated technologies, research agenda has been re-oriented through mid-term and long-term programmes for laying stress on location specific research for enhancing productivity particularly in the arid and fragile agro-ecosystem.

PRIVATE TELECOM COMPANIES

2008-04-27T03:17:00.000-07:00

134 private licensees are providing mobile telephony services with total subscriber base of 20,86,22,799 till 29th February, 2008 with a total investment of Rs.95,000 crores. Besides these, 120 new private licensees are yet to commence their service.

The total market share of BSNL and MTNL is 16.86% as on 29th February, 2008 in this segment. The deployment of latest technology for provision of mobile telephone service is a continuous process and BSNL and MTNL are also permitted to deploy GSM as well as CDMA macro-cellular architecture based technologies for provision of such services.

The technology deployed by BSNL and MTNL is comparable with that of private operators. BSNL and MTNL are the incumbent operators in terms of infrastructure for provision of inter and intra service area long distance services while the private companies have commenced their roll-out at a later date as compared to both Public Sector Units. Thus, their infrastructure cannot be compared in equitable terms.

Subject to technical feasibility and commercial arrangements, some private telecom companies are using passive infrastructure facilities of BSNL and MTNL, such as building space, ducts, towers.

LABOURERS IN AGRICULTURE SECTOR

2008-04-27T03:09:00.000-07:00

According to the survey conducted by National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) during 1993-1994 and 2004-05, the percentage of labourers engaged in agriculture has decreased from 64.75% to 58.49% of the total workforce in the unorganized sector. The decrease is due to migration to urban areas.

The Government has enacted National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, which provides for 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in every financial year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. The scheme which was being implemented in 330 districts has since been extended to 604 districts in the country from April 2008.

ABOLITION OF CHILD LABOUR

2008-04-27T03:07:00.000-07:00

The Government does not propose any fixed target date or time bound programme to abolish Child Labour since this problem emanates from other issues such as poverty and it is not possible to fix a specific period for its complete abolition.

However, the Government is already implementing the National Child Labour Project Scheme for the elimination of child labour in 250 districts of 20 States of the country. Under the Scheme, children working in identified hazardous occupations and process are withdrawn from work and put in Special Schools where they are provided with accelerated education, vocational training, nutrition, stipend and healthcare facilities etc., before they are mainstreamed into regular education system.

The ILO has supported child labour elimination efforts in the country through the IPEC (International Programme for the Elimination of Child Labour).

However, the contribution of the ILO in terms of financial aid is not very high in comparison to Government of India allocation. The UNICEF also similarly contributes a very small amount for specific programmes of elimination of child labour.

While these financial inputs have been helpful, it is the Government of India funding which is the primary source for combating child labour in the country.

WELFARE PROGRAMME FOR AGRICULTURAL LABOURERS

2008-04-27T03:06:00.000-07:00

The Government attach high priority to the welfare and well being of the unorganized sector workers, including agricultural labourers.

Various Ministries/Departments are implementing poverty alleviation/employment generation schemes like Swarnjayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana, Sampoorna Gramin Rojgar Yojana, Pradhanmantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Swarna Jayanti Shahri Rozgar Yojana, etc. are applicable to these labourers.

The Government has launched the ‘Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana’ to provide life and disability cover to rural landless households. The benefits under the scheme include Rs. 30,000/- in case of natural death; Rs. 75,000/- in case of death due to accident or total permanent disability due to accident. In case of partial disability due to accident, the insurance cover would be Rs. 37,500/-.

‘Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana’ (RSBY) for BPL families in Unorganised Sector has been launched on 1st October, 2007 for the unorganized sector worker’s family of five. The scheme provides for smart card based cashless health insurance cover of Rs. 30,000/- per family per annum on a family floater basis.

The Government has introduced ‘the Unorganised Sector Workers’ Social Security Bill, 2007 on 10.09.2007 in the Rajya Sabha. The Bill envisage formulation of social security schemes for unorganized sector workers, including agricultural labourers.

GENERATION OF EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

2008-04-27T03:02:00.000-07:00

The survey conducted in some countries covering selected employers by American Company Manpower Ink titled “Manpower Employment Out Look Survey” has indicated the most favourable hiring plan reported by employers in India during April-June 2008.

Reliable estimates of employment and unemployment in India are obtained through quinquennial labour force surveys conducted by National Sample Survey Organisation. Last such survey was conducted during 2004-05.

As per two most recent quinquennial rounds of surveys on employment, employment opportunities on usual status basis during the same period have increased from 397 million in 1999-2000 to 459.10 in 2004-05.

CHANGES IN MADARSA CURRICULUM

2008-04-27T03:00:00.000-07:00

Madarsa Modernization is an on going programme under which those Madarsas which volunteer to impart teaching in modern subjects such as Science, Mathematics, English etc, in addition to the traditional religious learning, are assisted through State Governments.

National Monitoring Committee for Minorities Education has set up a Committee of Experts on Modernization of Madarsa Managements has made suggestion to remove weaknesses in the existing Madarsas Modernisation Programme.

Based on these suggestions, the Programme is being modified to provide for linkage of volunteering Madarssas with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and imparting of vocational education in addition to modern subject, without affecting their traditional teaching.

COMPUTERISATION OF COURTS

2008-04-27T02:54:00.000-07:00

The Government proposes to computerize the lower courts in future. A scheme for computerization of all the 13000 District and Subordinate Courts, prepared in accordance with the National Policy and Action Plan has been approved by the Government on 8th February, 2007 with National Informatics Centre (NIC) as the implementing agency.

The coverage of the project includes Information and Communication Technology (ICT) enablement of all the District and Subordinate Courts and upgrading the ICT infrastructure of the Supreme Court and all the High Courts.

The project is to be implemented in three phases over a period of five years. The first phase, which is under implementation, is scheduled to be completed in two years.

The first phase of the project is being implemented in all the States and Union Territories at an estimated cost of Rs. 442 crore. All the lower courts in the country including the courts in the States of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa and Uttar Pradesh have been taken up for computerization in the first phase.

RESERVATION FOR THE OBCs

2008-04-27T02:48:00.000-07:00

HRD MINISTRY ISSUES DIRECTIONS FOR CENTRAL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF RESERVATION FOR THE OBCS

The implementation of reservation in admission under the Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Admissions) Act, 2006 in respect of persons belonging to the socially and educationally backward classes (OBCs) had been ‘stayed’ by the Supreme Court of India, while hearing Writ Petition and a bunch of other writ petitions.

The Apex Court has now finally disposed of the petitions on the 10th April, 2008, upholding the constitutional validity of the 93rd Amendment [Article 15(5)] of the Constitution in so far as the Central Educational Institutions, established, maintained or aided by the Central Government are concerned.

The court has also upheld the CEI Act, 2006, with the directions that the OBCs shall not include socially advanced persons (commonly known as the “creamy layer”).

Thus, all CEIs other than those mentioned in the Schedule of the CEI Act, have to implement the policy of reservation of 27% of seats for the OBCs apart from 15% seats for the SCs and 7.5% for the STs from the academic session commencing this year, in accordance with the phasing of the expansion of capacity necessitated in order to ensure that the seats available in the unreserved category are not reduced.

ANDHRA PRADESH ANNUAL PLAN

2008-04-27T02:38:00.000-07:00

ANDHRA PRADESH ANNUAL PLAN 2008-09 FINALIZED

The Annual Plan for Andhra Pradesh for the year 2008-09 was finalized on April 21,2008, at a meeting between Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission Shri Montek Singh Ahluwalia and the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy.

The Plan outlay was agreed at Rs.44000 crores. This includes additional Central assistance of Rs.165 crores for projects of special interest to the State.

In his comments on the Plan performance of Andhra Pradesh, Mr. Ahluwalia said that the State was doing well in all sectors of economy. He appreciated the State’s efforts for encouraging private sector participation in social sectors including education and health.

The social sector indicators were showing positive trend and are generally better than the national average. While appreciating State’s thrust on social sector, he said participative planning at district and village level has to be encouraged to ensure better impact.

Fund flow to irrigation sector has gone up substantially during the last four years and State has recorded impressive increase in the yield.

Mr. Ahluwalia suggested that increased attention to agriculture should not lead to ignoring allied areas like animal husbandry and fisheries. The State Government was appreciated for introducing agriculture insurance scheme with village as a unit, loan to farmers on 3 per cent interest and aggressive agriculture extension programme.

He said the State with tighter discipline can definitely achieve almost total literacy by 2015. Public private partnership in rural education was a step in the right direction.

During last four years the economy has climbed an accelerated growth trajectory because of bold policy initiative in major areas. The GSDP has recorded a highest ever plan growth of 7.42 per cent. The growth rate for 2007-08 (first year of the Eleventh Plan) was expected to be 10.37 per cent.

National Tribal University

2008-04-27T02:17:00.000-07:00

A new chapter was added on April 19,2008 in the field of higher education and research facilities for the tribal population in the country when the foundation stone of a new Central University namely Indira Gandhi National Tribal University at Amarkantak in Anupur district, Madhya Pradesh was laid.

The objects of the University shall include, inter-alia, promoting studies and research in tribal art, culture, tradition, language, custom, medicinal systems, forest based economic activities, including special studies in the flora and fauna, and advancements in technologies relating to natural resources of the tribal areas. It shall make special provisions for the promotion of educational, economic interests and welfare of the members belonging to the Scheduled Tribes.

This University will go a long way in providing new direction to the youth in tribal areas in meeting the challenges of the future through education and learning. This University will have live contact and coordination with other Central universities, tribal research institutions and other higher learning and research organisations and will make use of the available knowledge from every part of the country and the world to meet its solemn objectives. It is necessary to have scientific temperament, aptitude for research and respect for human values and a true faith in science and knowledge.

the University will be developed into world-class institution of learning. The jurisdiction of this University will extend to the whole country. University will be fully funded by the Central Government through the University Grants Commission like other Central Universities.

It is a matter of serious concern as the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) is only 6.61 compared to the national GER of 11.6. The GER of girls from the tribal population is even lower which is 4.69.

Low access to higher education for the tribal youth puts them at disadvantage in higher studies. There is high concentration of tribal population in North Eastern states and in the area comprising parts of Madhya Pradesh, Chhatisgarh, Jharkhand, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Gujarat.

While North Eastern States have at least one Central University in each State, there is no Central University especially catering to the population in the other tribal concentrated areas.

Amarkantak is a great pilgrim centre as well as source of the two important rivers of the country namely Narmada and Sone.

Though in 11th Five Year Plan, the Central Government is opening several institutions in the field of higher education like IITs, NITs and Management Institutions, but this tribal University will have a pivotal role among them in higher education.

COMPUTERISATION OF R.T.O.s

2008-04-27T02:14:00.000-07:00

The Department of Road Transport & Highways has already made rules for issuance of Driving Licences and Registration Certificates in Smart Card mode.

Computerisation of R.T.Os is a pre-requisite for this purpose. Various States are at different stages of computerisation of R.T.Os. However, to assist the States, the Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) under the Chairmanship of Secretary (Road Transport & Highways) has recently approved a proposal for interlinking of all R.T.Os in the country, at a total cost of around Rs. 148.00 crores, which also includes computerisation of R.T.Os in the country.

There is, however, no proposal to introduce zonal permits for transport vehicles in the country.

SPECTRUM ALLOCATION CRITERIA

2008-04-27T02:08:00.000-07:00

The Government, during November 2007, constituted a committee with academia, representatives from industry and Government, to recommend revised subscriber based spectrum allocation criteria. The committee in its report has recommended allocation of additional spectrum in steps of 1 MHz.

In order to ensure optimum use and equitable allotment of scarce spectrum resource, the criteria for spectrum allotment are based on the active subscribers, peak traffic of the operators network and demographic features of the service area. These criteria are reviewed from time to time taking into account relevant factors and technological developments. The latest orders in this regard are based on TRAI recommendations and have been issued in January 2008.

The project “National Radio Spectrum Management & Monitoring System (NRSMMS)”, for automation of process for RF Spectrum Management as well as upgradation of the radio monitoring facilities, has been implemented through a World Bank loan of about US $ 30 million.

The automation of RF spectrum management has resulted in more effective and efficient spectrum management. Various types of applications are now being received online and processed through Automated Spectrum Management System (ASMS). This would help all wireless users.

NEW PROGRAMMES TO CHECK MIGRATION

2008-04-26T12:02:00.000-07:00

NEW PROGRAMMES FOR RURAL YOUTH TO CHECK MIGRATION TO URBAN AREAS

The Ministry of Rural Development through State Governments and Union Territoty Administrations implements a number of Cetrally Sponsored Schemes for Poverty Alleviation, employment generation, creation of rural infra structure and providing basic amenities for peopleliving in rural areas of the country.

The programmes are Swarnjayanti Gram Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY), National Rural Employment Gurantee Scheme(NREGS), Indira Awass Yojana (IAY), Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP), Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC), Integrated Wastelands Mangement Programme (IWMP), Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC), Integrated Wastelands Management Prrgramme (IWMP), which includes Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP)and Desert Development Programme (DDP)and Integrated Wasteland Development Programme.

The National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) was launched on 2nd Feburary,2006 covering 200 districts further extended to 330 districts and has now been extended to all the rural districts of the country w.e.f. 1.4.2008. These on going scheme are helpful to provide additional self and wage employment at the nearest place of their residence, increase income generate infrastructure for development of rural areas and provide basic amenities so that rural people including youth is not forced to migrate to urban areas for their livelihood.

Inclusive City

2008-04-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

It is important for local governments across the Commonwealth to ensure that cities provide a voice for marginalized communities and formulate strategies to their articulated needs. The basic aim of the ‘Inclusive City” is to promote growth with equity where everyone, regardless of his economic means, gender, race, ethnicity or religion , is enabled and empowered to fully participate in the social, economic and political opportunities that cities have to offer. Commonwealth countries share a common heritage of various issues and this needs to be used as a strength and opportunity to cooperate for mutual learning, sharing of experience and development of common solutions for adaptation at local at local level.

The benefits of the ‘Inclusive Cities’:
The urbanization is inevitable and ‘Inclusive Cities’ are a must to develop urban centers as a viable unit of productivity, social cohesion, cultural integration and service center to their vast hinterland. Promoting inclusiveness is not only socially just but is good for growth. It is central to sustainable urban development thereby reducing inequality and social tension.

The Indian experience of inclusiveness:
Empowerment of local governments under 73rd and 74th constitutional amendments followed by initiatives such as Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and Swarna Jayanti Shahri Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) operate as complimentary to the basic empowerment. The Government has also emphasized the need for ‘inclusive zoning’, ‘inclusive planning’ and ‘inclusive cities and municipalities’ to achieve overall policy objectives.

Local government has an essential role in providing a voice for marginalized communities and responding to their needs so that we can make our towns and cities more inclusive. This is one of the key principles in CLGF’s Aberdeen Agenda: Commonwealth Principles for Local Democracy and good Governance.

NATIONAL HIGHWAY PROJECTS IN THE NORTH EASTERN REGION

2008-04-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

Execution of National Highway works in North Eastern Region (NER) is carried out by Border Roads Organisation, National Highways Authority of India and State Public Works Departments (PWDs).

Border Roads Organisation is executing NH works in Sikkim and Tripura fully and in other States partly against lump sum amount allocated by the Ministry each year. National Highways Authority of India is executing the special programmes for which Annual Plan is not drawn.

PWDs of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Nagaland are also engaged to execute NH works in these States on the basis of sanctions accorded by the Ministry in successive annual plans. Eleventh Plan for development of national highways is yet to be finalised by the Government.

SEVEN CRORE REGISTERED VEHICLES

2008-04-26T11:46:00.000-07:00

OVER SEVEN CRORE REGISTERED VEHICLES IN THE COUNTRY IN 2004

As per the latest available data (No updated data collection by govt in last 4 years) the total number of registered motor vehicles in the country as on 31st March 2004 was 7,27,17,935.

The number of motor vehicles had steadily increased at an average rate of 10% per annum during the years 1994-2004. However, the road space is not increasing commensurate with the increase in number of vehicles resulting in many serious problems such as traffic congestion, increase in number of road accidents etc.

FORMULA OF MEASURING POVERTY

2008-04-26T11:44:00.000-07:00

DETERMINING THE FORMULA OF MEASURING POVERTY AFRESH

The Planning Commission estimates the incidence of poverty at National and State level form the large sample survey on household consumer expenditure conducted by the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) following the methodology contained in the Report of the Expert Group on Estimation of proportion and Number of Poor. No communication has been received in the Planning Commission form the state with the demand to determine the formula for measuring poverty afresh.

The poverty line used by the Planning Commission is based on a minimum level of food and non-food consumption which is necessary for subsistence. These are estimated at the national level in rural and urban areas. The State specific proverty lines are derived form the national level poverty lines, using State specific price indices and inter- State price differential.

The State specific poverty lines are periodically updated for price inflation using the methodology contained in the Report of the Expert Group on Estimation of proportion and Number of Poor. So far as changes in the method of determination of the formula of measuring poverty by the Planning Commission is concerned, no such discussion has taken place.

OLD AGE PENSION SCHEME

2008-04-26T11:41:00.000-07:00

A proposal is under consideration to provide pension to persons who are 60 years or higher and belonging to a household below the poverty line according to the criteria prescribed by the Government of India, by lowering the age limit from 65 years to 60 years under Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS).

Guidelines have been issued to all the State Governments to identify the beneficiaries based on the liberalized eligibility criteria under IGNOAPS and certify that all the eligible beneficiaries have been covered. Information and Education Campaign has also been taken up to generate awareness.

EXTENDED MALARIA CONTROL PROGRAMME

2008-04-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

The Enhanced Malaria Control Project (EMCP) under support from World Bank was operationalised in eight malarious States, namely, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Orissa covering a total of 100 districts in these States.

The World Bank supported EMCP concluded on 31st December, 2005. To sustain the ongoing malaria control activities, the World Bank has provided retroactive financing to the above States till implementation of the Phase-II programme.

The 2nd phase of World Bank project shall be implemented in tribal dominated malarious States, namely, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat and West Bengal. The World Bank will support the project in terms of positioning of consultants, Malaria Technical Supervisors (MTS), operating cost, training, supply of rapid diagnostic kits, drugs and long lasting insecticides treated bed nets, etc.

STUDY ON SEX RATIO

2008-04-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

Information furnished by the Office of the Registrar General of India indicates that the Sex Ratio (SR) (number of females per thousand males) has increased from 927 to 933 from 1991 to 2001. However, the Child Sex Ratio (CSR) has declined from 945 to 927 during the same period.

The figures further reveal that the CSR is comparatively lower in the affluent regions, i.e. Punjab (798), Haryana (819), Chandigarh (845), Delhi (868), Gujarat (883) and Himachal Pradesh (896). State/UT wise SR and CSR as per 1991 and 2001 Census.

Some of the reasons commonly put forward to explain the consistently low levels of CSR are son preference, neglect of the girl child resulting in higher mortality at younger age, female infanticide, female foeticide, higher maternal mortality and male bias in enumeration of population. Easy availability of the sex determination tests may also be proving to be catalyst in the process, which may be further stimulated by pre-conception sex selection facilities.

The Government has taken action on strengthening the Pre-Conception & Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act (PC & PNDT Act) as well as creating awareness on the issue through various IEC mechanisms.

Some of the steps taken by the Government to improve the CSR in the country are: Constitution of the Central Supervisory Board under the Chairmanship of Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, whose function, inter alia, is to review and monitor implementation of the Act and Rules & Regulations made thereunder and recommend to the Central government changes in the said Act and Rules, where required, and to create public awareness against the practice of pre-conception sex selection and pre-natal determination of sex of foetus leading to female foeticide; constitution of the National Inspection & Monitoring Committee for undertaking field visits periodically across the country and constitution of the National Support & Monitoring Cell for effective implementation of the Act, training of Judiciary, publication of Annual Reports, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), On-Line Complaint facility on the Ministry’s Website, organizing sensitization workshops/seminars, launching of ‘Save the Girl Child’ campaign, seeking cooperation from the NGOs/religious leaders, etc.

Further, under the National Rural Health Mission, Auxiliary Nursing Midwife (ANM) and Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) are being sensitized on the issue. Also, funds have been provided to all States/UTs under the Rural Child Health Programme for implementation of the Act and related activities.

BLOOD DONATION

2008-04-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

The Government is promoting voluntary blood donation by observing World Blood Donors day on 14 June and National Voluntary Blood Donation on 1 October every year.

During the last three years, Government has spent Rs 42.2 lakhs in 2005-06, Rs 55.0 lakhs in 2006-07 and Rs 186.6 lakhs in 2007-08 on promotion of voluntary blood donation.

As a result of various campaigns, voluntary blood collection has increased from 4.7 million/units in 2005 to 5.51 million/units in 2006 and 5.6 million/units in 2007. The proportion of voluntary blood donation has increased from 54.1% in 2005 to 56.4% in 2006 and 59.9% in 2007.

MOBILE DISPENSARIES FOR SMALL VILLAGES

2008-04-26T11:30:00.000-07:00

With the objective to take health care to door step of the public in rural areas, especially in under-served areas Mobile Medical Units (MMU) have also been approved @ one MMU per district under National Rural Health Mission (NRHM).

Two kinds of MMUs are envisaged, one with diagnostic facilities for the states other than North-Eastern States, Himachal Pradesh and J&K. In addition, for the North Eastern States, Himachal Pradesh and J&K, specialized facilities and services such as X ray, ECG and ultra-sound have been proposed to be provided due to their difficulty hilly terrain, non-approachability by public transport, long distances to be covered etc.

The states are, however, expected to address the diversity and ensure the adoption of most suitable and sustainable model for MMUs to suit their local requirements. The funds are released to States/UTs Government as per their requirements in their respective annual NRHM programme implementation plans.

Pathology Labs facility is available at the level of Primary Health Centre and Community Health Centres which are established in rural areas as per population norms.

The Mobile Medical Units have in fact provided service to the underserved areas and areas having difficult/hilly terrain in the country.

NATIONAL RURAL HEALTH MISSION

2008-04-26T11:28:00.000-07:00

According to 11th Plan document, allocation for the National Rural Health Mission [NRHM] for 5 year period is Rs.89,478 Crore. A total amount of Rs.10223 crores approximately has been spent during the first year of 11th Plan, i.e. 2007-08.

EFFECTIVENESS OF DPT VACCINE

2008-04-26T11:22:00.000-07:00

Under the Universal Immunization Programme, Infants are vaccinated with DPT vaccine at the age of 6, 10 & 14 weeks and Booster dose at 18 months of age to immunize against Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetnus Toxoid.

The tetnus and diphtheria toxoids are highly immunogenic (95-100%), the pertussis vaccine has a protective efficacy of 70-90%. Duration of immunity after whole cell vaccine declines by 50% over a period of 6-12 years. Because the traditional whole cell vaccine was considered too reactogenic to be administered after 6 years, the immunization schedule did not include additional pertussis immunization after that age.

Under the Universal Immunization Programme, DT (Diphtheria & Tetnus Toxoid) vaccine is administered to the children at the age of 5 years and TT (Tetnus Toxoid) at the age of 10 & 16 years.

OVER 27 MILLION REGISTERED WITH EMPLOYMENT EXCHANGE

2008-04-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

The number of youth in the age-group of 15-29, all of whom may not necessarily be unemployed, registered with employment exchanges in the country as on 31.12.2005 was 27.83 million. (Data is not updated since this date)

SCHEMES FOR WORKERS IN THE UNORGANISED SECTOR

2008-04-26T11:10:00.000-07:00

As per the estimates of the recent survey conducted by National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) during 2004-2005, about 94% of the work force is employed in the unorganised sector which, inter-alia, include agriculture workers, construction workers, self-employed, casually employed. Remaining 6% of the workforce is employed in the organised sector.

In order to protect the interest of the workers in the unorganized sector and to provide social security to these workers, the Government has enacted various labour laws which are fully or partially applicable to the unorganized sector workers.

Some of the major legislations include the Workmen Compensation Act, 1923; the Minimum Wages, Act, 1948; the Building & Other Construction Workers (RECS) Act, 1996; the Building & Other Construction Workers Welfare Cess Act, 1996, the Contract Labour (Regulation & Abolition) Act, 1970; etc.

With a view to providing social security to the unorganised sector workers, the Government has constituted Welfare Funds for Beedi, Cine and certain Non-Coal Mine workers to provide welfare schemes like health care, housing, education to the children etc. There are various poverty alleviation schemes/ programmes being implemented by the Government.

The Government also enacted National Rural Employment Guarantee Act which provides 100 days of guaranteed wage employment in every financial year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. The Unorganised Sector Workers’ Social Security Bill, 2007 has been introduced in Rajya Sabha on 10.09.2007

In addition to above, the Government has recently launched ‘Aam Aadmi Bima Yojana’ to provide life and disability cover to rural landless households. The benefits under the scheme include Rs.30,000 in case of natural death; Rs.75,000 in case of death due to accident or total permanent disability due to accident.

In case of partial disability due to accident, the insurance cover would be Rs. 37,500/-. The children of beneficiaries are eligible for scholarship. The ‘Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana’ for BPL families in Unorganised Sector has been launched on 1st October, 2007 for the unorganized sector worker’s family of five. The scheme provides for smart card based cashless health insurance cover of Rs. 30,000/- per family per annum on a family floater basis.

Under ‘The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)’, old age pension has been extended to all ‘Below Poverty Line’ persons above the age of 65 years. The Government still feels that there is a long way to go and it is the endeavour of the Government to extend the welfare measures to all workers in the unorganized sector.

MANDATORY USE OF CAS

2008-04-26T11:07:00.000-07:00

The Government propose to make it mandatory for the television-viewers to use Conditional Access System (CAS). CAS has been implemented in the notified areas of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.

Government is in the process of evaluating the implementation of CAS in the three metros and Chennai metro area. TRAI has recommended the extension of CAS in the balance area of three metros on mandatory basis.

TRAI has also forwarded a report of the Group formed of members from different segments of the broadcasting and cable sector to suggest options and roadmap for voluntary introduction of CAS and digitalization in cable television in the country on voluntary-cum-mandatory basis.

The Group has recommended a voluntary-cum-mandatory approach to introduction of CAS in fifty five cities which include all the cities with a million plus population, some cities located in the proximity of the cities to the existing CAS and it has also included all the State capitals which could not come under any of the above criteria. Recommendations of the Group are being deliberated.

The issues arising out of the implementation of CAS in the first phase and the strategies to be evolved for its smooth and successful implementation in the next phases of implementation have been discussed by Secretary, Ministry of information & Broadcasting in a meeting on 08.4.2008 with the concerned State Government officials, TRAI, Nodal Officers and various stakeholders including consumers.

The Government is favourably inclined to speed up the process of digitalization and introduction of addressability by extending the CAS notified areas. The Government also wants it to be done in a manner which adequately protects consumer interest and leads to his empowerment. The details of further extension are being finalized. No time limits could be given on such policy issues.

SCHEMES FOR SC/ST AND OBC STUDENTS

2008-04-26T11:02:00.000-07:00

Most of the schemes of Human Resource Development Ministry are general in nature aimed at benefiting all sections of the society including SCs, STs and OBCs.

Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas and all Centrally funded institutions have provisions for reservation for SCs & STs to the extent of 15% and 7.5% respectively for which admission norms are also relaxed to ensure fulfilment of reservation.

Therefore, benefits flow to the SC and ST students in proportion to their enrolment under these schemes. There are some other measures aimed at benefiting the students of these communities, some of which are
(i) relaxed norms for opening primary/middle schools in areas inhabited by SCs and STs
(ii) freeships/scholarships/fellowships, uniforms, stationery, school bags
(iii) relaxation in cut-off marks for certain disadvantaged groups and
(iv) preparation of text books in tribal languages, etc.

the schemes

Department of Secondary Education & Literacy
i) Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
ii)Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas

University Grants Commission (UGC)
iii)Remedial Coaching for SC and ST students
iv)Coaching classes for Entry in services
v) Coaching for NET for SC/ST students

CASTE/RELIGION-WISE ENROLMENT IN SCHOOLS

2008-04-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

National University of Educational Planning and Administration (NUEPA) collects elementary school statistics annually through the District Information System (DISE) from all districts in the country which includes, inter alia, information on enrolment of children in the 6-14 years age group, disaggregated by gender and social categories.

DISE data for 2006-07 has revealed total enrolment of 17,93,42,817 children at elementary level, of which 8,54,97,566 are girls, 3,56,42,553 are SC, 1,91,70,368 are ST, 7,51,92,721 are OBC and 1,59,50,533 are Muslim children.

The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) provides for, inter-alia, strengthening of school infrastructure, more access to schools in districts with educationally disadvantaged groups, and additional support for girl’s education in educationally backward blocks. Further to target children of disadvantaged groups, inter-alia, free textbooks, remedial teaching are also provided to increase their enrolment and retention in schools.

ENROLLMENT IN SECONDARY EDUCATION

2008-04-26T10:58:00.000-07:00

A committee of the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE), in their report on the Universalisation of Secondary Education(June, 2005) has projected an enrollment of 3.48 crore in classes IX-X in 2007-08 based on 100% success of Sarva Shiksha abhiyan (SSA), and an enrolment of 2.80 crore based on 75% success of SSA.

The enrolment figure for classes IX and X for the year 2005-06 ( as on 30.9.2005) as indicated in the abstract of Selected Educational Statistics (Provisional) prepared by this Ministry, was 2.50 crore.

School education is primarily under the purview of the State Governments and it is mainly for them to provide adequate infrastructure in secondary schools. Central Government has also decided to implement a centrally sponsored scheme for Universalisation of access to and improvement of quality of education at secondary stage during the 11th Five Year Plan.

The object of the scheme is to make secondary education of good quality available, accessible and affordable to all young persons by providing a secondary school within a reasonable distance of every habitation.

Following facilities are provided through EDUSAT by various agancies:

**University Grants Commision (UGC) and Consortium for Educational Communication (CEC) use EDUSAT network for live tansmission of their classroom programme, which is received by all institutions having Satellite Interactive Terminals (SITs) or Receive Only Terminals (ROTs).

**All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) sponsors telecast of programme through AICTE-EDUSAT network mostly for curriculum based teaching, conducting training programmes and seminars.

**Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) sponsors curriculum based education, teachers¡¦ training, professional educational courses and conducting teleconferencing session for software content generation.

**NCERT conducts interactive orientation/ training programme of teachers and teachers education.

**Department of Science & Technology (DST) is utilizing EDUSAT network for group discussions, lectures, demonstrations, video-shows, training and capacity building programmes.

SETTING UP OF IIT, IIM AND CENTRAL UNIVERSITIES

2008-04-26T10:55:00.000-07:00

Based on the recommendations made by the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (SAC-PM), it has been decided to set up three new Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), one each in the States of Rajasthan, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh during the XI plan.

In order to expand the facilities for high quality management education in the North-East, the Government has decided to establish an Indian Institute of Management (IIM), at Shillong. After considering requests of the State Governments and other relevant factors such as existing regional distribution of Central Educational Institutions in the country, it has been decided to locate 5more IITs and 6 more IIMs in the following States:-

IITs – Himachal Pradesh, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh (Indore), Gujarat and Punjab.

IIMs – Tamil Nadu, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Chattisgarh (Raipur), Uttarakhand and Haryana.

16 States which do not have a Central University at present, and which will get one Central University each in the 11th Plan are Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Goa.

Of these, in three States, existing State Universities will be taken over by the Central Government and converted into Central universities. These three Universtities are Dr. Hari Singh Gaur University, Sagar (in Madhya Pradesh), Guru Ghasidas University, Bilaspur (in Chattisgarh), and Goa University.

Establishment of IITs, IIMs, and Central Universities in the above States is subject to State Governments offering adequate land at suitable locations, free of cost, for the purpose. Each of the concerned State Government is being requested to offer land accordingly. Actual establishment of these institutions would however depend, among other things, on how quickly the concerned State Governments respond by allotting adequate land at suitable locations.

Locations of 20 new Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IITs), to be set up in the 11th Plan have not been finalized.

CRIMES THROUGH INTERNET

2008-04-26T10:49:00.000-07:00

There are reports of criminals committing economic frauds through phishing, e-mail scams, piracy, data theft and launching of denial of service attacks onto targeted organizations, network infrastructures and countries, using internet services.

‘Police’ being a State subject, it is primarily the concern of the State Governments to modernize their forces and to establish cyber police stations for cyber crime investigation.

At the same time, the Ministry of Home Affairs is implementing a project called Common Integrated Police Application (CIPA) in all the States in a phased manner, under the Modernization of State Police Forces (MPF) Scheme. It is envisaged to widen the scope of CIPA project in terms of the applications and by extending it from the police stations to the other higher-level formations in the police hierarchy, and provide network connectivity.

The Government has set up Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) to provide reactive and proactive support to the cyber incidents in India, besides, introducing a Bill to amend the Information Technology Act, 2000, in the Lok Sabha on 15.12.2006 to provide for insertion of legal provisions to address various computer crimes.

INDIA AND EGYPT COOPERATION

2008-04-26T10:43:00.000-07:00

INDIA AND EGYPT TO INTENSIFY COOPERATION IN FERTILISER SECTOR

Egypt has assured India it will give special treatment to Indian on export of rock phosphates is concerned. The assurance was made by the visiting Trade and Industry Minister of Egypt Mr. Rachid Mohamed Rachid.

Egypt will also consider the Indian request for giving Free Zone status to the location for setting a joint venture between IFFCO and Egypt. IFFCO holds 76 per cent equity in the $ 325Million venture. Shri Paswan also requested the visiting Minister to export low grade rock phosphate to India which could be used for the manufacture of SSP.

The Egyptian side also showed keen interest in Indian steel consultancy organizations. There is scope for the two countries to cooperate in Pharmaceutical industry also.

PANCHESHWAR PROJECT

2008-04-26T10:40:00.000-07:00

Pancheshwar Project between India and Nepal

Some contentious issues
(i) apportionment of cost between power and irrigation and between India and Nepal; (ii) installation capacity and unit size and assessment of power benefits; and
(iii) water availability downstream of Pancheshwar, etc. are pending for final decision with Government of Nepal. Thereafter, talks would be held on construction of the Project with Government of Nepal. No discussions could be held with Nepal since December, 2004 due to internal situation in Nepal.

FLOOD RELIEF

2008-04-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

A state sector scheme, namely "Flood Management Programme" for providing central assistance to the State Governments to undertake flood control and river management works in critical reaches amounting to Rs 8000 crores has been approved 'in principle' by the Government for Eleventh Plan period in November, 2007.

The flood management schemes are planned, investigated and implemented by the State Governments; which are appraised by State TAC, Central agencies like Central Water Commission and Ganga Flood Control Commission and Advisory Committee of the Union Ministry of Water Resources, depending upon the cost of the scheme(s), as per the guidelines of Planning Commission.

Foreign Tourist in India

2008-04-26T10:33:00.000-07:00

The foreign tourist arrivals in India have increased in 3 years as may be seen from the figures below:-

Year Foreign Tourist Arrivals in India (in million)

2005 3.92

2006 4.45

2007 (Provisional) 5.00

According to the latest figures available from United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), there were about 7.59 million international tourist arrivals in Singapore in 2006 as compared to 4.45 million foreign tourist arrivals in India.

India has been achieving consistently a high growth rate of 13.3%, 13.5% and 12.4% in foreign tourist arrivals in 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively. Some of the important steps being taken to attract more foreign tourists in India include the integrated development of tourist infrastructure at tourist circuits and destinations, growth of hotel infrastructure particularly budget hotels, augmentation of air capacity, enhancing availability of skilled manpower, according greater focus in emerging markets particularly in the regions of China, North-East Asia and South-East Asia and international publicity campaigns through the electronic and print media, etc.

National Bamboo Mission

2008-04-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

National Bamboo Mission has been successful in promoting bamboo, especially in the North East, and generating employment for skilled and unskilled youth. The Mission has developed specific strategies for different regions.

It is promoting bamboo related activities in different spheres, namely, research and development, new bamboo plantations, establishment of nurseries, rejuvenation of old plantations, disease and pest management, bamboo marketing and export.

Improved technologies for bamboo production and processing are available in many countries and India can benefit from them.

Bamboo production helps environment, it is the fatest growing plant on this planet and provides the best canopy for the greening of degraded lands. Some species of Bamboo grow as much as 4 feet a day. Its stands release 35% more oxygen than equivalent stands of trees. Bamboo can also lower light intensity and protects against ultraviolet rays.

Bamboo is harvested and replenished with no impact to the environment. It can be selectively harvested annually and is capable of complete regeneration without need to replant. Bamboo is an enduring natural resource and provides income, food, and housing to over 2.2 billion people worldwide.

There is concern at loss of diversity and lack of standardization and training in bamboo processing at community level. Bamboo plantation is helping in improving incomes of farmers in many countries including India.

AGREEMENT BETWEEN INDIA AND BANGLADESH

2008-04-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

FOR RUNNING OF PASSENGER TRAIN SERVICES

The Union Cabinet (11 April 2008) gave its approval for entering into an agreement between The Government of India and The Government of Bangladesh for running of Passenger Train services between India and Bangladesh. The passenger service will start operation on the 14th of April 2008, the Bengali New Year’s day.

The Agreement will facilitate passenger train operation between India and Bangladesh. This will strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries and provide an alternative mode of passenger transport between the two countries.

MOU BETWEEN INDIA AND BRAZIL

2008-04-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

The Union Cabinet gave its approval for signing the Agreement between India and Brazil on cooperation in the field of Agriculture and Allied Sectors including research and development, production technologies and equipment, financing and micro-credit system for small farmers, post harvest management, agro and food processing, cold chain, labs and R&D in the processed food sector as also primary processing at farm level, marketing, animal husbandry, dairying, aquaculture and fisheries, sanitary and phyto-sanitary issues, trade in agricultural products, exchange of experiences and expertise in rural development programmes and up-grading rural infrastructure. Partnership with public and private sector institutions is also envisaged.

The MoU will promote bilateral cooperation through research and development, production, small holder agriculture, post-harvest management, animal husbandry, dairying, aquaculture, fisheries, rural development etc. which will be beneficial for the two countries

ANNUAL WATER RESOURCES POTENTIAL OF THE COUNTRY

2008-04-13T10:58:00.001-07:00

The proper assessment of availability of water from surface and sub-surface sources in the country is the cornerstone for proper planning, development and management.

The Planning, Development and Management of the Water Resources should be done on a hydrological unit basis alongwith a multi-sectoral, multi-disciplinary and participatory approach as well as integrating quality, quantity and the environmental aspects as per the National Water Policy 2002. Accordingly the Water Resources assessment is being done river basin wise.

The precipitation in the form of rain and snowfall is a crucial component of the hydrological cycle that makes fresh water available on a renewable basis. The Geographical area of India is 329 million hectares (MHA) and the mean annual rainfall of the country is 1170 mm, which gives an annual precipitation of about 4000 km3.

A significant part of this precipitation seeps into the ground and the balance flows through streams and rivers and collects in water bodies adding to the surface flow. A part of the water that seeps into the ground remains as soil moisture in the upper layers and the rest adds to the ground water resources. Subsequently a major part of the water from surface flows and soil moisture and ground water resources when put to various uses, returns to the atmosphere through evapo-transpiration.

The natural flow in the river basin is reckoned as water resources of a basin. The mean flow of the basin is normally obtained on a pro-rata basis from the average annual flow at the terminal site. However at any point of time, the water resources in a river basin has already been developed and utilized to some extent through construction of major and medium storage dams and development of hydropower, irrigation and other water supply systems.

A large number of diversion schemes and pumped storage schemes may also have been in operation. Therefore, the assessment of natural flow has become complex in view of the upstream utilizations, reservoir storages, re-generated flows and return flows. The natural flow at the location of any site is obtained by summing up the observed flow, upstream utilization for irrigation, domestic and industrial uses both from surface and groundwater resources, increase in storage of surface and sub-surface reservoirs and evaporation losses in reservoirs and deducting return flows from surface and groundwater sources.

The Central Water Commission (CWC) assessed the average annual water potential resources of the country as 1869 billion cubic (BCM) in the year 1993 based on the above methodology and gave in the report “Reassessment of Water Resources Potential of India”.

The National Commission for Integrated Water Resources Development Plan (NCIWRDP, 1999) estimate differed slightly owing to the reasons that in the case of Brahmaputra sub-basin in the additional contribution of flow of nine tributaries joining Brahmaputra downstream of Joghighopa site was included and secondly in case of Krishna basin the estimation was based on the mean flow of the yield series accepted by KWDT award.

The Standing Sub-Committee for ‘Assessment of Availability and Requirement of Water for Diverse Uses in the Country” constituted by the Ministry of Water Resources in his report observed that the latest assessment made by Central Water Commission (1993) that is, 1869 BCM is considered as reliable.

HIGHEST EVER PRODUCTION OF 1480 COACHES

2008-04-13T10:54:00.000-07:00

Rail Coach Factory (RCF), Kapurthala, a production unit under the Ministry of Railways, achieved a record production of 1480 coaches during 2007-08 which is the highest ever production by RCF in any year.

During the year RCF produced 34 types of coaches, which included 96 Stainless Steel coaches for Rajdhani trains, 133 coaches for 8 newly introduced Garib Rath trains, 16 Coaches for Science Express. A prestigious export order of 24 MG Coaches for Senegal Railway was also executed during the year.

RCF has so far manufactured 19438 coaches, since its inception in 1987, which is almost 50 per cent of the coaching fleet of Indian Railways. In view of growing demand, it has set an even higher target to manufacture 1550 coaches during the year 2008-09.

In order to improve the safety of passengers, crashworthy features have been introduced in the coaches, which are capable of absorbing high impact energy in non-passenger area of a coach at its ends, while keeping the middle passenger portion safe, in an accident. RCF produced 108 such coaches during 2007-08.

The stainless steel coaches being produced by RCF are based on German technology and have inherent design features like, superior aesthetics, much better ride quality and low maintenance cost. Due to cost limitations, these coaches were so far introduced only in the high end trains like Shatabdi and Rajdhani Expresses. In order to introduce these superior features on other mail/express trains, has developed in-house an innovative low cost variant of the stainless steel coach, cutting the cost by about 40 per cent of the German design stainless steel coach. The trials of this prototype have been completed successfully and now it has been planned to manufacture 100 such coaches besides 150 original German Design stainless steel coaches during 2008-09. There are also plans to switch over the entire production to this type of coaches in the near future. This low cost variant shall have exteriors similar to Rajdhani train and the bogies of these coaches shall be provided with air spring suspension for better ride quality. These coaches shall have added advantage of approx. 10 per cent enhanced sitting capacity.

RCF is enhancing its coach manufacturing capacity to meet the ever growing demand for which various expansion works like setting up of wheel assembly shop at a cost of Rs. 68 crore, expansion of existing shell and furnishing shop and new paint shop at a cost of Rs. 55 crore approx. In order to augment the design capabilities, RCF is also setting up a “Centre for Excellence in Design” with an investment of Rs. 10 crore. These projects are likely to be completed in the current financial year.