Parliament Update on Environment 2005

PARLIAMENT UPDATE ON ENVIRONMENT

2005

COMPILATION OF PARLIAMENT QUESTIONS ON ENVIRONMENT

Toxics Link H-2, Jungpura Extension,

New Delhi - 110014 INDIA

Sl No.

House Category Page No.

1 Rajya Sabha Agriculture 4 2 Air Pollution 25 3 Bio-diversity 36 4 Bio-medical Waste 44 5 Chemicals 46 6 Consumer Affairs and Rights 56 7 EIA and Environmental Clearance 58 8 E-waste 64 9 Food Safety 67 10 Forest 74 11 Global Warming and Climate Change 88 12 Hazardous Waste 90 13 Health 101 14 Policies and Amendments 148 15 Mines and Minerals 153 16 Municipal Waste 155 17 Non-Conventional Energy Sources 161 18 Nuclear Waste 164 19 Pesticides 167 20 Water Resources 171 21 Miscellaneous 203

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Sl No.

House Category Page No.

1 Lok Sabha Agriculture 207 2 Air Pollution 248 3 Atomic Energy 267 4 Bio-diversity 271 5 Bio-medical Waste 296 6 Chemicals 301 7 EIA and Environmental Clearance 315 8 Food Safety 342 9 Forest 355 10 Global Warming and Climate Change 388 11 Hazardous Waste 395 12 Health 402 13 Industrial Pollution 448 14 Labour and Employment 457 15 Policies and Amendments 466 16 Mines and Minerals 470 17 Municipal Waste 509 18 Noise Pollution 514 19 Non-Conventional Energy Sources 516 20 Pesticides 517 21 Public Grievances 527 22 Rural Development 531 23 Urban Development 537 24 Water Resources 540 25 Miscellaneous 575

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RAJYA SABHA

AGRICULTURE

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 4703 TO BE ANSWERED ON 10.05.2002

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO IRRIGATION PROJECTS OF UTTAR

PRADESH

4703. SHRI HARENDRA SINGH MALIK Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the details of irrigation projects of Uttar Pradesh, pending for clearance with Government at present, district-wise; (b) the reasons for the delay; and (c) by when all the irrigation projects are likely to be cleared?

ANSWER MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI T.R. BAALU) (a) to (c): No irrigation project of Uttar Pradesh is pending for environmental clearance. Only one irrigation project involving 19.171 ha. of forest land for Basti Branch Canal Alignment (Km 42.0 to 72.0) under Saryu canal project in Balrampur district of Uttar Pradesh is pending for forestry clearance for want of certain essential information from the State Government. ********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS RAJYA SABHA

STARRED QUESTION NO 143

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TO BE ANSWERED ON 11.03.2005

POLLUTION BY CEMENT PLANTS IN GUJARAT

143. DR. A.K. PATEL ALKA BALRAM KSHATRIYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Cement Plants are polluting the environment of Gujarat by being set up in the residential areas of the nearby villages; (b) whether due to this, the crops of the poor farmers are failing and roads and water facilities are being affected because of the heavy load; (c) the reasons why they should not be shifted to anywhere in a remote area; and (d) the rules and regulations which govern Cement Industries in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) There are 11 Cement Plants operating in Gujarat with valid consent of Gujarat State Pollution Control Board. The Board is regularly monitoring compliance with the consent conditions. There are no reports of specific complaints regarding violation of emission standards by these plants. (b) There are no reports of any adverse impact on crop production and other facilities. (c) Does not arise (d) Emission standards for cement industry are notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. ******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA


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STARRED QUESTION NO 455 TO BE ANSWERED ON 23.12.2005

BANNING GENETICALLY MODIFIED CROPS

455. SHRI RAM JETHMALANI RAJ MOHINDER SINGH MAJITHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) Whether it is a fact that reports of adverse-effects of the crops developed through gene modification on human life have come to light; (b) if so, the facts in this regard; (c) whether it is also a fact that keeping in view the results of the above experiment, many countries of the world have banned them; and (d) if so, the names of such countries and the decisions taken by the Government in this direction?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) & (b) Globally, all crops developed through gene modification commonly referred to as GM crops or transgenic crops are tested extensively for their impact on the environment as well as on human and animal health through a rigorous regulatory mechanism before they are approved for commercial cultivation. There have been no scientifically validated adverse reports regarding effects of the approved GM crops on human health. c) No report regarding banning of the GM crops in any country on the ground of adverse-effects of the crops on human health have come to the notice of the Government. d) Does not arise.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 2600 TO BE ANSWERED ON 16.12.2005

SUBSTANDARD SEEDS MANURE AND PESTICIDES

2600. SHRI T.T.V. DHINAKARAN Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware of the fact that substandard seeds, manure and pesticides are responsible for low agricultural production; (b) if so, whether Government have made any study to assess this issue; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the details of existing mechanisms to regulate quality of seeds, manure and pesticides?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) to (d): The use of quality inputs like seeds, fertilisers and pesticides are the most important determinants of agricultural production and productivity. Accordingly, pesticides and fertilisers are assessed before release/notification/registration. Government have provided legal framework to strengthen the quality assurance regime for various agricultural inputs under the Seeds Act, 1966; Seeds Rules, 1968; Seeds (Control) Order, 1983; Fertiliser (Control) Order, 1985; Insecticides Act, 1968 and Insecticides Rules, 1971 as amended from time to time. Enforcement of these legal instruments is vested with the State Governments/Union Territories. Inspectors notified under these legal instruments are empowered to draw samples, seize stocks, issue stop sale orders in case the commodities under reference contravene these Act, Rules and Orders.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE


PROMOTION OF ORGANIC FARMING

1861. SHRI R.S. GAVAI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government have any proposal for creation of Regional Centre at Nagpur for the promotion of organic farming; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, the reasons there for?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) & (b): Government has sanctioned a new Central Sector Scheme `National Project on Organic Farming` from October 2004 for production, promotion and market development of organic farming in the country by subsuming the existing infrastructure of National Bio-fertiliser Development Centre (NBDC) and its six Regional Centres (RBDCs) including the Regional Centre at Nagpur. In order to facilitate, encourage and promote development of organic farming in the country, NBDC and RBDCs have been renamed as National Centres of Organic Farming (NCOF) and Regional Centres of Organic Farming (RCOFs). (c): Does not arise.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA


UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 4646

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BANNED PESTICIDES

4646. SHRI VARINDER SINGH BAJWA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that a number of banned pesticides are still being used by farmers of Punjab and elsewhere in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the steps taken to curb and check the marketing of such pesticides and action taken against culprits?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a)&(b): Government does not have any authentic report regarding the use of banned pesticides by farmers in Punjab and other parts of the country (c): The manufacture, sale, distribution and use of banned pesticides is a punishable offence under the Insecticides Act, 1968. Insecticide Inspectors have been provided with the requisite powers to ensure that the provisions of the Act and the Rules made there under are compiled with. ********



IDENTIFICATION OF NEW VARIETIES OF WHEAT BY ICAR

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292. SHRIMATI N.P. DURGA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has identified seven new varieties of wheat for release; (b) if so, the details thereof and how these are suitable to different agro-climatic conditions in the country; and (c) the advantage identified and the additional yield that the farmers are going to get from these new varieties?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTILAL BHURIA) (a): Yes Sir. The seven new varieties of wheat have been identified during 44th All India Wheat and Barley Research Workers’ Meet, held at University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad from August 27-30, 2005. (b) & (c): Details given in Annexure. ANNEXURE

Variety Production Condition

Area of adaptation Remarks

DBW 16 Irrigated, late sown

Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan (except Kota and Udaipur divisions) and Western UP (except Jhansi division), parts of J&K (Jammu and Kathua distt.) and parts of HP (Una distt. and Paonta valley) and Uttaranchal (Tarai region)

The variety is resistant to both stripe and leaf rusts and yield at par to the most widely grown variety PBW 373 which is now susceptible to brown rust. This will help in varietal diversification in the zone. The average yield is 39 q/ha.

HD 2888 Rainfed, timely sown

Eastern UP, Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa, West Bengal, Assam and plains of North Eastern States.

HD 2888 has yield advantage over the checks along with resistance to brown rust. The

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average yield is 23 q/ha. HI 1531 Rainfed/restr

icted irrigation, timely sown

Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Kota and Udaipur divisions of Rajasthan and Jhansi division of Uttar Pradesh.

HI 1531 has superiority in yield and resistance to leaf rust over available commercial varieties and suitable for rainfed as well as restricted irrigated conditions. The average yield under rainfed condition is 25 q/ha while under restricted irrigation it is 27 q/ha.

NIAW 917 Irrigated, timely sown

Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Plains of Tamil Nadu.

NIAW 917 is superior in yield, disease resistance and quality as compared to the checks. The average yield is 43 q/ha.

PBW 533 Irrigated, late sown


This variety is resistant to both stem and leaf rust along with yield advantage as compared to check varieties. The average yield is 37 q/ha.

AKDW

2997-16

(durum)

Rainfed, timely sown


AKDW 2997-16 has resistance to both stem and leaf rust along with yield advantage. The average yield is 12 q/ha.

DDK 1025

(Dicoccum)

Irrigated, timely sown

Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Plains of Tamil Nadu as well as hilly areas of Tamil Nadu and Kerala comprising the Nilgiri and Palni hills of southern plateau.

This dicoccum variety, besides being superior in yield and disease resistance for stem and leaf rust is good in quality parameters also. The average yield is 38 q/ha.

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CLEARANCE TO Bt. COTTON

5440. SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD RAJ MOHINDER SINGH MAJITHA

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Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that Genetic Engineering Approval Committee had cleared commercial production of six varieties of Bt. Cotton in the country; (b) if so, the names of these varieties alongwith the names of the Institutes which produced these varieties; (c) whether these varieties had been produced by any Indian research institute on experimental basis; and (d) if so, the names of Indian research institutes alongwith the variety of Bt. Cotton seed production by them?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTILAL BHURIA) (a): The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee has approved a total of eighteen Bt cotton hybrids for the commercial cultivation in the country. (b): MECH-12Bt, MECH-162Bt, MECH- 184Bt, MRC-6301Bt, MRC-6304Bt, MRC-6322Bt and MRC-6918Bt were developed by Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Limited; RCH-2Bt, RCH-134Bt, RCH-317Bt, RCH-138Bt, RCH-144Bt, RCH-118Bt, RCH-20Bt and RCH-368Bt were developed by Rasi Seeds (P) Ltd; and Ankur -651Bt, Ankur 2534Bt and Ankur-09Bt were developed by Ankur Seeds Private Limited. (c) & (d): Eighteen Bt. cotton hybrids (as given in part b) have been produced by three Indian companies viz. Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Limited, Rasi Seeds (P) Ltd and Ankur Seeds Private Limited. *********



PROMOTING ORGANIC FARMING

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489.SHRI R.S. GAVAI EKANATH K. THAKUR Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that India is lagging behind in expanding organic farming despite being placed in an advantageous position; (b) whether it is also a fact that despite allocating considerable funds for National Programme for Organic Production in the current plan, the organic sector lags far behind its actual potential; (c) if so, the reasons therefor; and (d) the steps the Government propose to take to promote organic farming in the country and also to achieve the targets set out in the plan?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH) (a): No Sir. (b)&(c): There is no specific allocation of funds under National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) under Ministry of Commerce. However, National Project of Organic Farming (NPOF) has sanctioned w.e.f. 1.10.2004 project outlay of Rs.57.05 crores for 10th Plan Period. During 2004-05, there was an expenditure of Rs.4.50 crores and has an outlay of Rs.27.00 crores for 2005-06. (d): Under the National Project on Organic Farming, financial assistance is being provided inter-alia for capacity building through appointment of service providers, setting up of commercial production units of various organic input like fruits and vegetable waste compost, biofertiliser, vermiculture, hatcherie, etc., organising training on certification/inspection and input production technology, field demonstrations on organic inputs including biogas slurry, setting up of model organic farms, promotion, extension and market development of organic produce. To increase the export of organic products, Ministry of Commerce, under National Project of Organic Production, has developed National Standards for Organic Products and accreditation/certification system for appointing inspection and certification agencies, established equivalency with European Union (EU)/International Federation for Organic Movement (IFOAM) apart from organising awareness programmes, training programmes and data management. ***********

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



PROMOTING COW URINE BASED PESTICIDES

510. SHRI PYARELAL KHANDELWAL Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are considering to promote cow urine based pesticides instead of chemical pesticides in agriculture field; (b) if so, whether Government are formulating any proper coordinating scheme in this regard; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH) (a) to (c): Government of India already promotes Integrated Pest Management (IPM) which envisages use of biological, mechanical, cultural and other methods of pest control including application of indigenous technology and traditional knowledge. Farmers are, accordingly, already using cow urine and cow dung in their traditional agricultural practices. *********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



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RESEARCH ON PEST RESISTANCE OF Bt COTTON

490. SHRI EKANATH K. THAKUR Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether, according to a study by Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR), a few years down the line, Bt. cotton might die a natural death at the hands of American bollworm, the pest it is supposed to resist; (b) whether it is a fact that the CICR has developed a model that predicts exactly how many years it would take the notorious pest to become completely resistant to Bt. Cotton; and (c) if so, the steps Government propose to take to arrest its impending decline?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH) (a): The study conducted by Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR) showed that the American bollworm will develop resistance to Bt cotton after a few years depending mainly on the extent of area under Bt cotton in the country. With the current rate of increase in the area under Bt cotton, it is likely to take about 11-12 years for the pest to develop resistance to Bt cotton, if appropriate resistance management strategies are not properly implemented. However, with implementation of proper strategies as suggested by CICR, it is possible to delay resistance by at least 30-40 years, if not more. (b): Yes, a stochastic model ‘Bt-Adapt’ was developed to simulate the rate of resistance development of H. armigera to Cry1Ac under Indian farming conditions. Full details of the software and results of the prediction modelling study have been published in ’Current Science’ in October 2004. The model integrates genetic and ecological parameters of H. armigera in relation to its response to the Cry1Ac. The model can predict the time that would take for bollworm to develop resistance in different cotton-growing districts of the country, based on the input statistics of area under Bt cotton in each of the districts, or even the proposed area to be cultivated under Bt cotton.

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Simulation analysis showed that relative survival rate of the Cry1Ac resistant homozygous (RR), heterozygous (RS) and homozygous susceptible (SS) H. armigera genotypes on Bt cotton was the most important factor influencing resistance development. In the order of significance, the other factors that had the greatest impact on resistance development were, the relative proportion of area under Bt cotton, dominance of the resistant allele and initial frequency of resistant alleles in field populations. The extent of population reduction in Bt cotton and non-Bt crops due to pest control, was found to have a significant impact on the rate of resistance development. (c): The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has initiated a networking project in 2004, to carefully monitor resistance development in all the 9 cotton growing states of the country and also to scientifically analyse all factors that contribute to resistance development. The national networking group has been given the task of developing resistance management strategies from time to time every year and disseminate them to all the stakeholders, including the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC), the state agricultural universities, Government institutions, farmers, Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), etc. So far based on the simulation analysis, using the ‘Bt-Adapt’ model. Based on the scientific data available thus far, CICR has proposed some important resistance management strategies to the GEAC. The strategies place emphasis on reducing populations of H. armigera that survive Bt cotton and enhancement of area of alternate host crops that are as attractive as cotton to H. armigera, to be used as trap crop or intercrop refuges. If proper pest management measures are followed to ensure that at least 90 percent of the surviving larvae of the American bollworms in Bt cotton fields are killed with bio-pesticides, resistance can be delayed to 45 years even with 40 percent area under Bt cotton. The following strategies have been proposed to the GEAC for approval and implementations so as to ensure that resistance is delayed for a much longer time: (i) Use of eco-friendly methods such as cultural control or hand-picking of surviving bollworms in Bt cotton fields. Deep-ploughing of fields immediately after Bt cotton harvest to destroy resistant pupae. (ii) Biopesticides that are neem based or HaNPV (virus) were found to be more effective on larvae surviving on Bt cotton because of their slower growth as compared to those on the conventional non-Bt cotton. Hence these would be useful to manage younger larvae on 60-90 days old crop. Alternatively, eco-friendly insecticides such as spinosad, emamectin benzoate, novaluron or Indoxacarb can be used on 90 and 120 days old crop to reduce populations of resistant insect genotypes. (iii) Use of attractive synchronous alternate host crops such as marigold, sunflower, chillies, etc. for H. armigera which could be used as intercrop or trap crop refuges.

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(iv) Use of alternate genes that do not share common resistance mechanisms as that of Cry1Ac, in transgenic plants either in rotation or alternation or mixtures such as the dual-gene based Bt cotton varieties. *********



ADAPTATION OF AGRICULTURE TO GLOBAL WARMING

3368. SHRIMATI SUKHBUNS KAUR KALRAJ MISHRA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether a recent study has predicted that global warming will adversely affect agriculture, bio-diversity, disease pattern and water availability in India; (b) whether Pune based Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and UK`s Hadley Centre for Climate Prediction and Research have predicted that temperature increase by as much as 3 to 4 degrees in parts of Northern India and increase in rainfall by 10 per cent to 30 per cent will affect rain based agriculture and increase surface water availability over the basins of Ganga, Krishna and Godavari; and (c) if so, Government’s reaction thereto and the strategy contemplated to meet the challenges?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTILAL BHURIA) (a): Yes Sir. (b): Yes Sir. (c): The Government is contemplating several measures including afforestation and appropriate soil/land management to mitigate global warming. Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has already initiated a project in network mode on Impact, Assessment and Vulnerability of Indian Agriculture to Climate Change during Xth Plan to meet the emerging challenges. *********

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



USE OF PLASTIC IN AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES

2587. SHRI SHAHID SIDDIQUI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that Government have recommended the use of plastic in agricultural activities, if so, the justification for this recommendation; and (b) whether any study has been done on the alternatives to plastic, if so, the details thereof showing the comparative cost-benefit ratio?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a): Plastics material is used in the following applications in the agriculture which are being promoted through various Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS):

• Drip irrigation • Sprinkler irrigation • Green house/Low Tunnel • Mulching • Plastic Crates

The above applications helps in achieving increase in yields, water saving, better quality produce and raising crops in extreme climatic conditions. The use of plastic crates for carrying fruits and vegetables not only facilitates transportation while maintaining the quality of produce but also saves forests to a larger extent, which would have been otherwise cut to produce wooden boxes to carry fruits and vegetables. (b): Plastics materials have been developed as an alternative to limited conventional resources viz wood, paper, jute, etc. as well as for ecological balance and environmental

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protection. Studies have been carried out to produce biodegradable plastic material for use in agriculture applications viz mulching, etc. However, such material is costlier than the conventional plastic material. ******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW AGRICULTURE POLICY

2606. SHRI RAJ MOHINDER SINGH MAJITHA RAM JETHMALANI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that a new Agriculture Policy was announced in the year 2000 in the country; (b) if so, the salient features thereof; (c) whether any scheme has been chalked out for its implementation; and (d) if so, the facts thereof and the impact of the implementation of new Agriculture Policy on agriculture in the country?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) to (d): The National Agriculture Policy announced in the year 2000 seeks to achieve the following:

• Actualise the vast untapped growth potential of Indian agriculture, • Strengthen rural infrastructure to support faster agricultural development, • Promote value addition, • Accelerate the growth of agro business, • Create employment in rural areas,

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• Secure a fair standard of living for the farmers and agricultural workers and their families,

• Discourage migration to urban areas, • Face the challenges arising out of economic liberalisation and globalisation. The following schemes have been introduced for the purpose:

• Increase in the production and productivity of various crops including oilseeds and pulses,

• Diversification of the high value crops, • Strengthening of agriculture marketing infrastructure, • Promotion of agriculture extension, • Promotion of water and soil conservation through watershed approach under

natural resources management and national horticulture mission. *********



CENTRAL TOBACCO RESEARCH INSTITUTE

1802. SHRI V. HANUMANTHA RAO Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) the role of the Central Tobacco Research Institute (CTRI); (b) whether it is a fact that very little positive, constructive and useful research has come out of the CTRI in the last three years; (c) the steps proposed to energise this body in the interest of the farmers; and (d) the details of measures proposed in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a): The Central Tobacco Research Institute (CTRI) is conducting basic, applied, strategic and anticipatory research on different types of tobacco grown under varied agro-

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ecological situations in the country. (b): No, Sir. The CTRI has developed ten new varieties and crop production and protection technologies such as integrated nutrient management, irrigation water management, modified barn for reducing cost of curing, integrated pest management, etc. during the last three years. (c) & (d): Research programmes of CTRI have been reoriented to provide thrust on alternative uses of tobacco, reduction of harmful substances like tar, Tobacco-Specific Nitrosamine (TSNA) and pesticide residues, viable tobacco based cropping systems, organic farming, etc.. Need-based budget provisions have been made to conduct research on the above programmes. ********



CLOSURE OF AGMARK LABORATORIES

297. MS. PRAMILA BOHIDAR B.J. PANDA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact the AGMARK laboratories are facing closure in the name of reorganisation of the system; (b) what is the position of the laboratory based at Bhubaneswar in Orissa and what is the action plan of Government to adjust its staff, once it is closed down; (c) whether Government are aware that ramifications of reorganisation would be very harsh on the health of the consumers when the adulteration will have a free run; and (d) if so, the action plan of Government to dispel such apprehensions?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a): The Staff Inspection Unit of the Department of Expenditure after conducting work measurement study, has recommended for the closure of 13 AGMARK Laboratories of Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, an attached office of the Ministry of Agriculture. (b): Regional Agmark Laboratory, Bhubaneswar, is one of the laboratories which has been recommended for closure by the Staff Inspection Unit. After closure of this laboratory, its staff would be adjusted in the nearest laboratories/offices of the Directorate of Marketing and Inspection. (c): The responsibility for checking food adulteration lies with the State Government under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954. The work of AGMARK Laboratory at Bhubaneswar will, after its closure, be looked after by Kolkata Laboratory. There would, thus, be no adverse consequences by the closure of the AGMARK Laboratory at Bhubaneswar. (d): Does not arise. ********



LEGISLATION FOR HOLDING OF AGRICULTURAL LAND

1812. SHRI DHARAM PAL SABHARWAL Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the size of holding of agricultural land is decreasing day by day and is becoming unviable to earn livelihood; (b) if so, whether Government propose to bring any legislation to fix a minimum

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quantum of holding of agriculture so as to make farming a viable earning; and (c) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a): Yes, Sir. The average size of holding of agricultural land has decreased from 2.28 hectares in 1970-71 to 1.41 hectares in 1995-96. (b): No, Sir. (c): Does not arise. ********



SUBSTANDARD SEEDS MANURE AND PESTICIDES

2600. SHRI T.T.V. DHINAKARAN Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware of the fact that substandard seeds, manure and pesticides are responsible for low agricultural production; (b) if so, whether Government have made any study to assess this issue; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the details of existing mechanisms to regulate quality of seeds, manure and pesticides?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) to (d): The use of quality inputs like seeds, fertilizers and pesticides are the most important determinants of agricultural production and productivity. Accordingly, cultivars, pesticides and fertilizers are assessed before release/notification/registration. Government have provided legal framework to strengthen the quality assurance regime for various agricultural inputs under the Seeds Act, 1966, Seeds Rules, 1968, Seeds (Control) order, 1983, Fertilizer (Control) Order, 1985, Insecticides Act, 1968 and Insecticides Rules, 1971 as amended from time to time. Enforcement of these legal instruments is vested with the State Governments/Union Territories. Inspectors notified under these legal instruments are empowered to draw samples, seize stocks, issue stop sale orders in case the commodities under reference contravene these Act, Rules and Orders. *******

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AIR POLLUTION



NEW EMISSION NORMS IN DELHI

4696. SHRI B.J. PANDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that Government is working out new emission norms for the capital city Delhi; (b) if so, the brief details thereof; and (c) the time-frame within which the new emission norms would be implemented in the capital city Delhi?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIAN MEENA) (a) to (c) The Euro III emission norms, as provided in Auto Fuel Policy have been introduced in 11 mega cities including Delhi from April 1, 2005 for both petrol and diesel driven new vehicles, except 2 and 3 wheelers. For in-use vehicles, revised Pollution Under Control (PUC) System has been introduced in the country including Delhi from October 2004. ********

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AIR POLLUTION DUE TO ADDITIONAL PRIVATE VEHICLES IN DELHI

3921. SHRI KALRAJ MISHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether despite change over of Delhi’s public transport from diesel based to CNG based, the atmosphere on road remains chokingly polluted, with 500 to 700 additional private vehicles coming on the roads in the capital every day; and (b) If so, the specific steps being taken to minimize the additional vehicles choking the air in the Capital?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) The ambient air quality trends in Delhi indicate over all improvement in air quality due to various steps initiated. Increasing trends of most pollutants have been arrested. However, the Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) and Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) levels still exceed the air quality targets. (b) The steps taken to minimise vehicular pollution in Delhi include- * Progressive tightening of vehicle emission norms from Euro-I to Euro-III * Tighter emission norms for in-use vehicles and revised Pollution Under Control (PUC) system * Regular pollution checks for vehicles through mobile enforcement teams * Establishment of inspection and maintenance facility planned * Introduction of Delhi Metro Rail System * Banning of plying of 8-year old state and contract carriage buses in NCT of Delhi unless running on CNG (Natural Compressed Gas) * Banning of plying of pre-1990 autos and taxis unless replaced with new vehicles on cleaner fuel

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* Ban on sale of loose 2T oil and supply of only pre-mixed oil fuel for two and three wheelers * Construction of flyovers to decongest the traffic. ********



ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION IN CITIES

1106. SHRI JANARDHANA POOJARY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether environmental pollution is the highest in cities; (b) if so, the details and the reasons therefor; and (c) the measures contemplated to reduce the pollution in the cities?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b) The environmental pollution in the cities is generally attributed to vehicular emissions and discharge of partially treated domestic and industrial waste water. The monitored ambient air quality data in the cities indicate that while levels of Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide are within notified norms, the levels of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) are higher on certain occasions in some cities. (c) The following steps were taken to abate pollution in cities:

- Notification of general and sources specific, environmental standards; - Identification of pollution sources; - Control of vehicular pollution through promotion of clean fuels; - Introduction of stringent emission norms and fuel-specifications;

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- Promotion of cleaner technologies for control of industrial pollution; - Regular monitoring for environmental compliance.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



NOISE POLLUTION DURING NIGHT HOURS

3419. SHRI MANOJ BHATTACHARYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Supreme Court had some time back issued orders to Government to regulate the noise pollution in the country, particularly during night hours; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the follow-up action taken by Government to give effect to the directives of the Supreme Court?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THEMINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The Hon`ble Supreme Court had issued orders for regulating noise pollution during night hours in the country and particularly, during festive period. As per the notification of the Ministry of Environment and Forests dated 11.10.2002, the State Governments are directed to reduce noise pollution, permit use of loud-speaker and public address systems during night hours (between 10 pm to 12.00 mid night) on or during any cultural or religious festive occasion of a limited duration not exceeding 15 days in all during a calendar year. (c): In pursuance of the orders of the Supreme Court, all the State Governments/ Union Territory Administrations have been requested to ensure compliance to the provisions laid down in the above notification for reduction of noise pollution. *******

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



POLLUTION FREE CITIES

3415. SHRI C. PERUMAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is proposed to declare Tirupathi Tirumala as pollution free city; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Madurai and Kanchipuram will also be declared as pollution free cities; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) under the eco-city programme has taken up Tirupathi for eco-city development of the core area of the Tirupathi town. There is at present no plan to take up the Tirumala town under the said programme. The objective of the programme, which is present under implementation, is to undertake schemes relating to environmental protection, which include land-use plan, traffic and transportation plan, sewerage and drainage including water harvesting, solid waste management, plantation, landscaping and urban design plan. (c) to (e) Under the ongoing eco-city programme, six towns namely Kottayam, Tirupathi, Ujjain, Vrindavan, Puff and Thanjavour, having religious/tourist importance and population less than five lakhs, have been taken up under the pilot phase during the Tenth Plan. As regards Madurai and Kanchipuram, no proposal relating to these towns is reported to have been received by the CPCB. *********

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



AIR POLLUTION IN DELHI

2638. DR. K. MALAISAMY S.P.M. SAYED KHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that Delhi`s air is the worst among the 20 Asian cities as evaluated recently by a joint study of the World Bank and Asian Development Board; (b) whether it is also a fact that the Supreme Court has identified 16 cities in India as equal or more polluted than Delhi in Air Pollution Warranting Action Plan; (c) if so, what are the action plans so far evolved and executed and to what extent the problems have been curbed, controlled, contained and mitigated; (d) what are the preventive aspects of pollution abatement and promotion technologies; and (e) what has specially been done on vehicular emissions, the major cause for urban ambient of air quality?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) The Asian Development Bank in a study entitled Air Quality Management Capability in Asian Cities under the Air Pollution in the Mega cities of Asia (APMA) has assessed the air quality management capacities of 23 cities. The study is on benchmarking Urban Air Quality Management in the cities of Asia based on the data for 2000-2002. In general, Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM/PM10) is main pollutant of concern and Delhi is reported to be higher than other Asian cities with respect to this parameter. However, levels of Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrogen Dioxide are reported to be lower compared to other Asian cities. (b)to(d) The Hon`ble Supreme Court, in its various orders from time to time, has identified 16 cities namely Agra, Ahemdabad, Banglore, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Kanpur, Varansi, Jharia, Jodhpur, Chennai, Kolkatta, Patna, Faridabad, Pune, Solapur and

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Mumbai, for which action plans have been prepared for improvement of air quality. Some of the mitigative measures initiated by these cities include introduction of stricter emission norms for new and in-use vehicles, introduction of cleaner fuels, both for vehicles and industries, stricter pollution control vigil, better traffic management, etc. The recently monitored air quality data indicates that the level of RSPM have decreased in Agra, Faridabad, Lucknow, Surat and Sholapur in the last few years. The levels of Nitrogen Dioxide have also shown decreasing trend in cities like Coimbatore, Jabalpur and Sholapur. Similarly, decreasing trends in respect of Sulphur Dioxide have also been observed in the cities of Faridabad, Lucknow and Pune. (e) The following specific steps have been taken for control of vehicular pollution in the country:

• Introduction of unleaded petrol in entire country • Introduction of Euro-II emission norms for the whole country and Euro-III norms

for 11 mega cities • Introduction of Euro-II and Euro-III compliant fuel for the whole country and 11

mega cities respectively. This includes reduction in Sulphur and Benzene contents in diesel and petrol

• Introduction of cleaner fuels like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in a few polluted cities

• Introduction of improved Pollution Under Control (PUC) certification system • Setting-up continuous air quality monitoring stations in 16 cities • Initiation of source-apportionment studies in six cities.

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POLLUTION SPREADING INDUSTRIAL UNITS

3404. PROF. ALKA BALRAM KSHATRIYA SURENDRA LATH KRIPAL PARMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the number of industries that were found to be guilty by the Pollution Control Committees of the State Pollution Control Boards in their review during last three years, State-wise;

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(b) the names of these industries and action taken against them; State-wise; (c) whether it is a fact that the Central Government is not being informed by the State Governments about it; and (d) the steps taken/proposed to be taken for rehabilitation of employees affected by the closure/shifting of such units?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIAN MEENA) (a) to (d) Information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House.

*******



AIR POLLUTION IN DELHI

1868. DR. M.A.M. RAMASWAMY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether a study conducted by the Central Pollution Control Board and the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata has found disturbing trends on air pollution related respiratory symptoms affecting approximately 46 per cent people living in Delhi; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; (c) whether many more such studies are proposed to be conducted in other metropolitan cities; (d) if so, the details thereof; and

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(e) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The interim findings of the studies indicate higher incidence of respiratory symptoms among the residents of Delhi. However, there is no conclusive data available to establish cause-effect relationship between the manifestations of various respiratory ailments and the air pollution. (c), (d) & (e): Central Pollution Control Board has also sponsored other epidemiological studies as follows: (i) Effects of environmental pollution on the status of human health of Delhi residents by All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi (ii) Human risk assessment studies in asbestos industries in India by Industrial Toxicology Research Center, Lucknow (iii) Health status of conservancy staff and other community associated with municipal solid wastes management in Kolkata by Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, and (iv) Health status of conservancy staff and other community associated with municipal solid wastes management in Chennai by Sri Ramchandra Medical College and Research Institute, Chennai. ********



CONVERSION OF VEHICLES INTO CNG VEHICLES

1115. DR. PRABHA THAKUR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that after the unprecedented success of CNG in Delhi, the Supreme

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Court has directed the concerned States to convert their vehicles into CNG vehicles in order to check the pollution in the NCR area; and (b) if so, what is Government’s reaction on it ?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIAN MEENA) (a) & (b): The Hon`ble Supreme Court of India vide its order of May 2002 has directed that the cities, which are equally or more polluted than Delhi, may prepare a scheme for compulsory switch over to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)/Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as automotive fuel. Accordingly, four cities namely, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Kanpur and Pune were identified for switch over to CNG/LPG. For improvement in the ambient air quality, the concerned States have formulated the Action Plans, which are regularly monitored. These Action Plans include use of cleaner automotive fuels like CNG/LPG. *********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



TAXING POLLUTING UNITS AND MUNICIPALITIES

1911. SHRI LALIT SURI SANJAY NIRUPAM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether there is a proposal under Government’s consideration to tax polluting units and municipalities that don’t take steps to curb pollution; (b) if so, the details there of and the criteria to select the polluting units; and (c) by when the same is likely to be implemented?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to(c) There is no proposal for taxing polluting units and municipalities that do not take steps to curb pollution. However, the industrial units have to comply with the emission and effluent standards notified by the Ministry and necessary legal action is taken under the provisions of various environmental Acts against the defaulters. ********

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BIO-DIVERSITY



DAMAGE TO FRAGILE ENVIRONMENT

539. SHRI S. ANBALAGAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether any study was conducted by Government on the likely damages to the fragile environment of Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar and endangering the lives of Marine animals and Plants of the area as a result of Sethusamudram Project; (b) if so, the details thereof including results of the study and the follow-up action proposed to be taken thereon; and (c) the steps proposed to be taken to protect the environment of construction area while implementing the project?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) Yes Sir. (b) The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report prepared by National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur has studied the various environmental impacts of the project including impact on endangered flora and fauna such as turtles, whales, dolphins, sea cows, seaweeds, sea grasses, coral reefs, etc. due to the implementation of the project. As per the study, no significant impacts are envisaged to these marine lives by the project. (c) Government has stipulated a number of stringent environmental measures and steps while granting environmental clearance.

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Some of the important conditions stipulated are as follows:- (i) Discharge of bilge, ballast, treated sewage, solid wastes, oily wastes and spillage of cargo will not be allowed in Gulf of Mannar. (ii) All the ships using the route should have proper treatment facilities for sewage treatment. Untreated sewage will not be allowed to be discharged in Gulf of Mannar area. (iii) Effective monitoring of aquatic ecosystem should be done to ensure that no damage is done to the turtles, dugongs, flora and other endangered species. (iv) Environment Management Plan prepared by NEERI, Nagpur should be implemented.

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AMENDMENT OF WILDLIFE PROTECTION ACT

554. SHRI K. RAMA MOHANA RAO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that on the basis of proposals given by CBI, his Ministry is proposing to amend the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1992, to strengthen it further against poaching; (b) whether the proposals have been gone through by the Task Force that has been set up; and (c) if so, the recommendations made by the Task Force?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 has been amended in 2003, making it more stringent for preventing wildlife crimes in the country. No further amendment to strengthen the Act against poaching is contemplated. (b) & (c) The report of the Task Force constituted to review the management of Tiger Reserves in the country has not been received so far.

*****



PROTECTION OF BIO DIVERSITY AND WILDLIFE IN MANAS RESERVE

2099. SHRI URKHAO GWRA BRAHMA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are undertaking any programme in Manas Biosphere Reserve of Assam to protect, preserve and enrich its biological diversity and wild life; (b) if so, what are the programmes and which agencies have been engaged for that; (c) whether Government have sanctioned funds for the purpose in the current financial year ; and (d) if so, the details thereof ?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) and (b): Yes Sir. The Government is implementing a number of programmes namely Conservation of Biosphere Reserves, Project Tiger and Project Elephant in Manas Biosphere Reserve of Assam to protect, preserve and enrich its biological diversity and wild life. These programmes are being implemented by the State Forest Department. (c) and (d) An amount of Rs. 361.36 lakhs has been proposed for various activities under these programmes during the current financial year. The funds to State Governments are sanctioned and released on completion of prescribed obligations like submission of Utilisation Certificate and Physical Progress Report of funds released in the preceding year/s. The sanction and release of funds under the above projects is at various stages of processing. ********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED ANIMAL SPECIES

1876. SHRI JANARDHANA POOJARY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether unhindered large scale poaching in reserved forests has driven tigers and other highly endangered animal species into extinction during the last few years; (b) if so, the details, with allocation made, received from donor agencies and spent during the last five years and agencies entrusted with the responsibility to protect wildlife, area-wise and year-wise; (c) the action taken to fix responsibilities for such grave dereliction of duty; (d) whether in view of the unreliability of the data generated indigenously, it is proposed to invite a UN Agency to conduct tiger census in the country; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) While instances of poaching have come to light from different States at times, no report of animal species going into extinction has been received. (b) Details of Central assistance provided to States under on-going Centrally Sponsored Schemes of the Ministry of Environment & Forests for conservation of wildlife, are at Annexure-l. (c) The Government of India provides funding support and directives for field implementation of schemes pertaining to wildlife conservation by States. Since States does day-to-day management of field units, fixing responsibility for dereliction of duty falls within the domain of State Governments. (d)&(e) The Project Tiger Directorate in the Ministry of Environment & Forests has developed an enhanced methodology for conducting the All India estimation of tiger, large carnivores, ungulates, habitat status evaluation and monitoring with inputs from the Wildlife Institute of India. The methodology involves forest beat level primary data collection by forest staff and data collectors for computing indices of relative abundance of tiger and other wild animals apart from evaluation of habitat status, followed by density computation using sampling in the GIS domain. The process would be overseen by a panel of national and international independent experts.

*********



MAINTENANCE OF PLANTS AND TREES ON CENTRAL VERGE OF ROADS

. 2637. SHRIMATI JAYA BACHCHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a): the details of the projects regarding maintenance of plants and trees on Central verge of roads in the Capital for example on the road connecting Nizammuddin Bridge in Delhi;

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(b): whether it is a fact that for months together, the department fails to maintain, prune and shape beautifully the plants and trees, with the result that unwieldy growth takes place giving a bad look to the roads; and (c) if so, what are the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) & (b): Plantation and maintenance of plants and trees on central verge of roads in the capital, including the road connecting Nizammuddin Bridge in Delhi, is done by various departments of the Government as well as Municipalities of Delhi State, Forest Department of Delhi undertakes maintenance of plantations on 8 roads of the capital, namely - Road No -143, NH -10, Nelson Mandela Road, Aruna Asaf Ali Road, Vikas Marg, Ring Road from Rajghat to ITO on the left side, Road No.- 56 and NH-24 bypass from Noida More to ITO crossing which includes stretch of Nizammuddin Bridge. Necessary measures are taken periodically for proper maintenance of the plants and trees, subject to availability of funds. (c): Does not arise. *********



WILDLIFE CONSERVATION BY ARMY SOLDIERS

2639. DR. NARAYAN SINGH MANAKLAO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that army soldiers in Jammu & Kashmir and North-East will be engaged in wildlife conservation; (b) if so, the rationale of the decision and its possible impact on already stressed army personnel;

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(c) whether it is also a fact that his Ministry is also contemplating funding/sponsoring of ecological battalions; and (d) if so, the details of the scheme envisaged?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) No, Sir. There is no such proposal in the Ministry to engage army soldiers in wildlife conservation. (b) Does not arise. (c) & (d) The existing Ecological Task Forces (ETFs) Scheme was initiated by the Ministry of Defence in 1982 with a view of securing involvement of ex-servicemen in afforestation and eco-development in remote and difficult areas to undertake restoration of degraded ecosystems through afforestation, soil conservation and water source management techniques. At present there are four Eco-Task Force Battalions raised with the Regular and Territorial Army Personnel located in the Shivalik Hills (Dehradun), Jaisalmer (Rajasthan), Jammu & Kashmir and Pithoragarh (UttaranchaI). The substantive Scheme is administered by the Ministry of Defence and reimbursement of the expenditure is made by the Ministry of Environment & Forests. *******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



PROTECTION OF BIO DIVERSITY AND WILDLIFE IN MANAS RESERVE

2099. SHRI URKHAO GWRA BRAHMA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are undertaking any programme in Manas Biosphere Reserve of Assam to protect, preserve and enrich its biological diversity and wild life;

42

(b) if so, what are the programmes and which agencies have been engaged for that; (c) whether Government have sanctioned funds for the purpose in the current financial year ; and (d) if so, the details thereof ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) and (b): Yes Sir. The Government is implementing a number of programmes namely Conservation of Biosphere Reserves, Project Tiger and Project Elephant in Manas Biosphere Reserve of Assam to protect, preserve and enrich its biological diversity and wild life. These programmes are being implemented by the State Forest Department. (c) and (d): An amount of Rs. 361.36 lakhs has been proposed for various activities under these programmes during the current financial year. The funds to State Governments are sanctioned and released on completion of prescribed obligations like submission of Utilisation Certificate and Physical Progress Report of funds released in the preceding year/s. The sanction and release of funds under the above projects is at various stages of processing. ********

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BIO-MEDICAL WASTE



MERCURY FREE ALTERNATIVES

3924. SHRIMATI BIMBA RAIKAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether globally there is a shift towards mercury-free alternatives and strict regulations are in place on mercury emissions but in India such safeguards and regulations for handling mercury are non-existent; (b) whether a mercury thermometer containing 5 gms of mercury is enough to contaminate a 20-acre lake; (c) whether the health sector in India, particularly hospitals and dental clinics release substantial quantities of mercury every year without any precautions and disposed of like general waste; and (d) whether Government have any action plans to phase out mercury-based equipments from hospitals?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Countries like Norway, Sweden, Denmark and some States of USA have policies restricting manufacture and sale of mercury based thermometers. In India, the effluent standards notified as well as the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended in 2003 and the Manufacture, Storage and Import of Hazardous Chemicals Rules, 1989 notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, regulate disposal and prescribe safeguards for handling of mercury.

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(b): The general effluent standard for discharge into inland surface water as notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 in respect of mercury is 0.01 milligram per liter. (c)&(d): The mercury bearing wastes irrespective of the source of generation (i.e. hospitals, industries, etc.) containing mercury and mercury compounds equal to or more than 50 mg/kg are required to be disposed of as per the provisions of the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended in 2003. The State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees of Union Territories have been asked by the Central Pollution Control Board to ensure collection/disposal of mercury and mercury bearing wastes from the healthcare facilities as per the Hazardous Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended in 2003. ******

45

CHEMICALS



PRODUCTION AND IMPORT OF PLASTIC AND POLYTHENE

5478. SHRI NABAM REBIA PRABHA THAKUR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government is aware that production and import of plastic and polythene has gone up considerably in the recent years; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government is also aware that use of plastic and polythene is harmful to human health; (d) if so, whether Govemrnent propose to impose ban on production and import of those items; and (e) if so, the details thereof and the steps proposed to be taken to save the people from ill effects of these items?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) As per the available information the production and imports of polymers and performance plastics in India are reported to be as follows:

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Year Production Imports (in 000` MT) 2001-2002 4064 423 2002-2003 4270 386 2003-2004 4598 493 2004-2005 4807 not available (c): The use of polythene and other plastics for food, pharmaceutical and potable water packaging are governed by relevant specifications of the Bureau of Indian Standards. Only the indiscriminate disposal of plastics may cause adverse impacts on environment including human health. (d) & (e): At present, there is no proposal with the Government to ban production and import of plastic and polythene. The Government has brought out the Recycled Plastics Manufacture and Usage Rules, 1999 (vide S. 0. 705 (F-) dated 2nd September 1999) as amended in 2003 (vide S. O No. 698 (E) dated 17th June 2003), for regulation of plastic wastes. As per these rules, the use of recycled plastic bags for storing, carrying, dispensing, or packaging of foodstuffs is prohibited. Further, the Ministry has banned the manufacture, stocking, distribution or selling of carry bags made of virgin/recycled plastics, which are below 8 x 12 inches in size and 20 microns in thickness. To enforce strict compliance of these rules, registration of plastic carry bag manufacturing units with the State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees has also been made mandatory.

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ACTION UNDER BATTERY MANAGEMENT AND HANDLING RULES

2090. SHRI S.M. LALJAN BASHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the State Pollution Boards have, so far, taken any action against erring organisations under the Battery (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001;

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(b) if so, the details of the action taken; (c) whether there is any action plan of his Ministry to bring awareness of the Rules among the various parties connected with the Rules; (d) if so, the details of such action plan; and (e) if not, whether there is any proposal to have such an action plan?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) As per the Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001, the State Pollution Control Boards, are the prescribed authority to ensure compliance of the provisions under the rules and provide information on the status of compliance to the Central Pollution Control Board. Seventy-four units have been registered for recycling of batteries by the Central Pollution Control Board under the Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended in 2003. (c), (d) & (e) According to the Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001, it is the responsibility of the manufacturer, importer, assembler, re-conditioner and recycler of the batteries to create public awareness through advertisements, publications and posters. Awareness workshops have been organised by Indian Lead Zinc Development Association (ILZDA) and the Indian Battery Manufacturers Association for the benefit of recyclers and battery manufacturers. Also media such as radio and television are used to create mass awareness among the public.

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PLASTIC WASTE

1877. SHRIMATI BIMBA RAIKAR

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Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether India generates around 7250 tonnes of plastic waste including pet bottles, snack/gutka pouches, etc. every day; (b) whether 60 per cent of this plastic waste is recycled into inferior products which are hazardous to health; (c) whether the rest 40 per cent is tossed around to choke sewers and environment; and (d) whether Government would enact an uniform law for use of bio-degradable plastics?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) As per the Manual on Solid Waste Management brought out by the Ministry of Urban Development in the year 2000, plastic waste generated in the country is around 5000 tonnes per day. (b) As per the information provided by the Indian Centre for Plastics in the Environment, about 60 per cent of the India’s plastic production is recycled annually. Standards have been laid down by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for recycled plastic products. (c) Plastics in general are chemically inert substances. They are `per se` not harmful to the environment, except the indiscriminate littering of the plastic material along with other garbage and the absence of its organised segregation. (d) Bio-degradable plastics is still in its nascent state. Its development and usage in the developed countries also is limited. A uniform law for the use of bio-degradable plastics is not under consideration of the Government at present. *********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE


USE OF HARMFUL CHEMICALS FOR TOY MAKING

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5519. SHRI HARISH RAWAT SANTOSH BAGRODIA K.B. KRISHNA MURTHY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware of the use of poisonous DEHP chemical for manufacturing toys; (b) what action his Ministry propose to take against such toy manufacturers and to ban the manufacturing thereof; and (c) whether it is a fact that toy manufacturers do not specify on toys the ingredients used in their manufacture and if so, the action his Ministry propose to take in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): According to the Sports Goods Export Promotion Council under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, use of Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in PVC compounds is strictly banned in toy manufacturing. Regional Testing Centre (RTC), Okhla, under Ministry of Small Scale Industry which is fully equipped for testing of toys as per EN 71 standards (European International Standards) is reported to have been testing Indian toys and has not reported appearance of any poisonous DEHP chemical. According to the Sports Goods Export Promotion Council, as per international practice, toy manufacturers do not mention ingredients used in Toys. *******



BHOPAL GAS LEAK

1186. SHRI A. VIJAYARAGHAVAN

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Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the first technical report of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on the gas leak from the Union Carbide plant in Bhopal has been submitted recently; (b) if so, the details including the action taken or proposed to be taken on the above report; (c) the number of people of Bhopal suffering as stated in the report; (d) whether there is any attempt to utilise the present report gainfully and systematically for clinical management of the victims; (e) if so , the details thereof; and (a) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (f): Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has brought out a technical report on population based long-term epidemiological studies ‘Health effects of the Toxic Gas Leak from the Union Carbide Methyl Isocyanate plant in Bhopal.’ The report facilitates local scientists to devise strategy for further research on health hazards of the victims of Bhopal Gas Tragedy. This report has been examined by the Department of Chemicals and Petro-chemicals of Government of India which is the nodal department dealing with the relief aspects of these victims. The department has, inter alia, taken steps by forwarding a copy of the ICMR Report to the State Government of Madhya Pradesh which is directly responsible for providing medical relief to the victims, for taking appropriate action. *******



EXCESSIVE USE OF CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS

3916. SHRI JAYANTILAL BAROT

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Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government is aware of the ill-effects of excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides on agricultural land and rural health; (b) the area of cultivable land of the country which has become barren due to this reason; and (c) to what extent file quantum of harmful chemicals in water sources of the rural areas is higher than the safe level; the details thereof State-wise?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a), (b) &(c) The average consumption of chemical fertilizers and pesticides are 89.8 kg/h and 0.22 kg/ha respectively. This level of consumption is not considered to have ill-effect on agriculture. However, the Government is advocating Ìntegrated Nutrient Management` (INM) by promoting balanced and judicious use of chemical fertilizers in conjunction with organic manures depending on soil quality, bio-fertilizers, etc. Government is also advocating organic farming by using organic inputs for plant nutrients. ********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS


COMPENSATION TO AFFECTED FAMILIES OF BHOPAL GAS TRAGEDY

4706. SHRI E.M. SUDARSANA NATCHIAPPAN Will the Minister of CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that still there are many affected families of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy who have not been compensated adequately; (b) if so, the details thereof; and

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(c) the steps being taken by Government to provide relief to these families?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS & MINISTER OF STEEL (SHRI RAM VILAS PASWAN) (a) to (c): Claim cases have been filed by individual claimants and not by families. In all, 10,29,516 claims were filed under various categories and all the cases have been decided. 5,73,018 claims have been settled and claimants have been awarded a total compensation of Rs. 1542.31 crore. 4,56,498 cases have been rejected. As per orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court dated 19th July, 2004, those claimants who have been awarded original compensation (5,73,018) have to be paid additional compensation on pro-rata basis. This process has been started and 1,57,752 claimants have already been paid pro-rata compensation by the Welfare Commissioner amounting to Rs. 458.88 crore till 21.4.2005. The pro-rata disbursement process has to be completed by 30th April, 2006, as per orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court. ********



LOW PRODUCTION OF CHEMICALS AND PESTICIDES

2071. SHRI RAJKUMAR DHOOT Will the Minister of CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the production of alkali, inorganic and organic chemicals, pesticides, dyes and dyestuffs has been below the installed capacity; (b) if so, the reasons therefore; and (c) the steps being taken to make optimum the use of the installed capacity?

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ANSWER

MINISTER OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS & STEEL (SHRI RAM VILAS PASWAN) (a), (b) and (c): The chemical industry has been considerably de-regulated. There is no control on the production, distribution and pricing of chemicals. A large number of organic/inorganic chemicals, dyes and pesticides are being manufactured in large, medium and small scale sector. This Department does not monitor the production data of these chemicals. However, as per data available, the production of major chemicals has increased to 7374963 MT in the year 2004-05, from 5963434 MT in the year 2001-02.

********


RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 1080

ANSWERED ON 02.12.2005

DAMAGE DUE TO CONTAMINANTS SURROUNDING UNION CARBIDE

1080. SHRIMATI BRINDA KARAT Will the Minister of CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS be pleased to state:- (a) what steps have been taken by the Government to claim damages from Dow Chemical or Union Carbide Corporation for environmental destruction and for health damages caused to more than 20,000 residents due to reckless dumping of hazardous wastes in line with the ‘polluter pays’ principle affirmed many times over by the Supreme Court of India; and (b) the steps taken by the Government for scientific assessment of the depth and spread of the contaminants in the surrounding areas of Union Carbide Corporation in Bhopal?

ANSWER MINISTER OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS & MINISTER OF STEEL (SHRI RAM VILAS PASWAN). (a): The litigation related to Bhopal Gas Tragedy reached the Supreme Court of India in 1988 and the Supreme Court finally settled the litigation and settlement vide its orders dated 14th and 15th February, 1989. Under the settlement, Union Carbide was asked to

54

pay a compensation of US $ 470 million to the Union of India in full settlement of all claims, rights and liabilities related to and arising out of the Bhopal Gas Disaster. The Union Carbide Corporation has already deposited this amount. However, the issue relating to the removal of the toxic wastes left stored in the UCIL factory at the time of the closure of the factory in 1984 is urgently the subject matter of a Public Interest Litigation in Writ Petition No. 2802/2004 filed in the High Court of Madhya Pradesh. The Government of India has filed an application for directing UCC or its present owner companies i.e. Dow Chemical Company, USA, to deposit an amount of Rs.100 crore as advance with the Madhya Pradesh High Court for carrying out removal/disposal of toxic wastes lying at the UClL plant site at Bhopal, as per Rule 16 of the Hazardous Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules,1989, under which ‘polluter pays’ principle is enshrined. (b): The High Court of Madhya Pradesh has constituted a Task Force to monitor the removal/disposal of toxic wastes lying in and around the UCIL plant site at Bhopal under the chairmanship of Secretary (C&PC), with experts from National Environment Engineering Research Institute, Indian Institute of Chemical Technology and Central Pollution Control Board. These institutes/agencies have been asked to submit their reports to the Task Force on the treatment required for the removal/disposal of the toxic wastes lying at the UClL plant site at Bhopal along with the report on the level of contamination of ground water in the surrounding areas. *******

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CONSUMER AFFAIRS AND RIGHTS

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION


SPRAYING COLD DRINKS

1887. SHRI JAYANTILAL BAROT CHHATTRAPAL SINGH LODHA Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the farmers in several areas of the country are spraying cold drinks manufactured by multinational companies instead of pesticides, which is proving effective also; (b) if so, whether such cold drinks would not prove fatal for human health; and (c) whether such cold drinks are still being sold in Indian market?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (SHRI TASLIMUDDIN) (a) to (c): The quality of the cold drinks sold in the Indian market is regulated under Prevention of Food Adulteration Act and Rules framed thereunder which is administered by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. ********

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REVISION OF STANDARD OF DRINKING WATER BY BIS

4684. SHRI R.P. GOENKA Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the drinking water standards laid down by the Bureau of Indian Standards in 1983 and subsequently revised and updated in 1991 (IS 10500), are presently being further revised; (b) if so, the details thereof and their present status; (c) whether a fresh review has been made to include drinking water under the category of ‘food’ so that various agencies handling drinking water supplies can be legally held accountable for the bad quality of their supplies; and (d) if so, the results thereof and what present Government contemplate on the subject?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (SHRI TASLIMUDDIN) (a): Yes Sir. (b): The revision of the Indian Standard on Drinking Water IS 10500:1991 has been finalised by the relevant Sectional Committee of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The same is being taken up with the concerned Division Council of BIS for adoption. (c): Yes, Sir. (d): The final decision in this regard has not been taken yet. *******

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EIA AND ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE


RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO 142


APPROVAL OF DANGEROUS PROJECTS AND INDUSTRIES

142. SHRIMATI KUMKUM RAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that during the last two years Government have given clearance to such type of projects and industries which are very dangerous from environmental point of view; and (b) If so, the details thereof?.

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) & (b): No, Sir. The Central Government has enacted the Environment (Protection) Act (EPA), 1986 and framed Rules there under for the protection and the improvement of environment and prevention of hazards to human beings, other living creatures, plants and property. Ministry grants environmental clearance to 32 categories of developmental projects and industries covered under the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 1994 issued under the EPA, 1986 after assessing the Environmental Impact Assessment and Risk Analysis Reports and subject to compliance to stringent environmental and risk mitigation measures.

**************

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PROPOSAL REGARDING ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE OF PROJECT

1112. SHRI RAVULA CHANDRA SEKAR REDDY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government have cleared any proposals received from Andhra Pradesh regarding environmental clearance for various projects; and (b) if so, the details thereof for the last two years?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY, OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)& (b):Yes, Sir. The Government, have cleared 150 projects located in Andhra Pradesh during the last two years. The sector-wise details are given in the following table: Sector / Year

2004

2005

Industrial

8 95

Mining

19 8

River Valley & Hydroelectric Projects, Thermal Power Projects

1 7

Infrastructure & Misc. Projects

1 9

New Construction Projects & Industrial Estates

- 2

Total

29 121

*********

59

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO BALACHAUR-HOSHIARPUR-DASUYA

HIGHWAY

41. SHRI VARINDER SINGH BAJWA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether a proposal sent by the Punjab Government for removing/cutting of trees for upgradation of the Balachaur-Hoshiarpur-Dasuya highway is pending for environmental clearance; (b) if so, since when the request is pending; and (c) by when, the clearance is likely to be accorded?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) to (c) No, Sir. No such proposal for environmental clearance has been received. However, the proposal for diversion of 72.67 ha of forest land for Balachaur-Garhshankar-Dasuya Highway was received. The area was subsequently reduced to 56.163 ha. In-principle, approval for diversion of 56.163 ha of forestland for the above project has been granted on 18.11.2005 subject to fulfillment of stipulated conditions by the State Government. *******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO PROJECTS

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2640. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY V. HANUMANTHA RAO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) Whether overhaul of environmental clearance regulations has been done and has been now submitted to PM for final approval ; (b) if so, by what time these new rules are likely to be announced; (c) to what extent the new rules will help in immediate clearance of projects by both the Centre and States; and (d) whether at present it takes longer time in according environmental clearance to the projects?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA)

(a) No Sir. (b) Does not arise.

(c) Does not arise.

(d) Under the existing Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 1994, 120 days

is the prescribed period for granting environmental clearance from date of receipt of application with requisite documents and information.

**********



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR RESIDENTIAL AND

NON-RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

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2636. SHRI C. PERUMAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether draft notification issued on September 15, 2005 proposes certain restrictions and prohibitions on the construction of all residential and non-residential projects and the development of new townships and real-estate developers have to seek prior environmental clearance; (b) whether the demand has been made to exempt residential complex and individual IT parks from the notification; (c) if so, whether suitable amendment is being made in the notification; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a): The draft notification issued on September 15, 2005 proposes certain restrictions and prohibitions only on construction of residential and non-residential projects with built up area/activity area of 20,000 sq. metres or more and on the development of new townships located in an area of 50 ha. or more. (b): Yes Sir. (c) to (e): A large number of objections/suggestions have been received in response to the draft Environment Impact Assessment notification published on 15.09.2005 and the final notification in respect of new regulation can be issued only after consideration of all the objections/suggestions. ******

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POLAVARAM PROJECT

2641. SHRI PENUMALLI MADHU Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether his Miistry is aware, that due to Polavaram Project`s proposed design, 300 villages in 9 mandals of three.districts of Andhra Pradesh would be submerged displacing more than two lakh tribal people and their livelihood; and (b) if so, how the Central Government accorded Environmental Clearance to the project and allowed the Andhra Pradesh State Government to go ahead with the project work without other clearances?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) The Government is aware that a total of 276 villages (including hamlets) in 9 mandals in three districts of Andhra Pradesh would be submerged displacing 1,75,275 people out of which 60,770 people are Schedule Tribes. (b) The project has been accorded environmental clearance as per the procedure prescribed in the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification 1994 and its subsequent amendments notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. *********

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E-WASTE

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY


RECYCLING OF E-WASTE

1727. SHRI B.K. HARIPRASAD Will the Minister of COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state:- (a) whether MAIT (the association of IT hardware makers) has assessed generation of electronic waste worth Rs.7000 crore annually in India; (b) whether e-waste contains toxic substances like lead, cadmium, mercury and non bio-degradable plastic posing health hazards; (c) whether more than 60 percent e-waste collected for recycling in the West and other developing countries is sent to countries in Asia including India where recycling is cheaper; and (d) if so, Government’s comments thereon?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (DR. SHAKEEL AHMAD) (a) No Sir. MAIT have informed that they have not conducted any study on generation of

e-waste in India.

(b) Yes Sir. E-waste contains toxic substances like lead, cadmium, mercury in one form or another to varying degrees. The basic body of most electronic equipment is non-biodegradable plastic which also possess environmental hazards.

(c) and (d) According to some reports, 50 percent to 80 percent of the e-waste collected in the USA is reported to be exported to the developing countries, mainly in Asia where recycling may be cheaper. The e-waste per se is not hazardous and may not directly pose

64

any immediate environmental risk. It is the rudimentary and crude recycling methods to recover the precious metals from this waste adopted by the people involved in this business that possess an environmental threat. The Government has constituted a Working Group consisting of regulatory agencies, NGOs, industry associations and experts in the field to examine all aspects of the issue at the National level.

********



MANUAL ON E-WASTE

538. SHRI K. RAMA MOHANA RAO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government is preparing a manual on assessing e-waste in the country; (b) if so, the details of the project; (c) whether it is a fact that the biggest source of e-waste in India is through imports; and (d) if so, the action Government is taking in co-ordination with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and other Ministries concerned, to stop importing obsolete computers and other electronic gadgets which form major e-waste in the country?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has initiated steps to prepare a manual on assessing e-waste in the country, for which the work has been awarded to a consultant. (c)&(d): Electronic waste is included under List-A and List-B of Schedule-3 of the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended in 2000 and 2003. E-waste is also regulated by the Basel Convention on the Control of Trans-Boundary

65

Movement of Hazardous Waste and their Disposal. No country can export e-waste without written consent from the importing country. The import of this waste, therefore, requires specific permission of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. No such permission has been given to any authority or person by the Ministry till date for import of e-waste. As per the Foreign Trade Policy 2004-2009, import of second hand computers is under the restricted category and their import requires an import license. Such second hand computers are allowed to be imported for use in educational institutions, NGOs and charitable organisations of the country. Import licenses are granted with the approval of an Inter-Ministerial Committee of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). As per the available information, the quantity of second hand computers, etc., permitted for import so far being small, the same does not form major constituent of e-waste in the country.

***********

66

FOOD SAFETY



ADULTERATION IN FOOD

1936. SHRI R.P. GOENKA AMAR SINGH ABU ASIM AZMI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware that despite series of regulatory rules administered by the Central and State Governments, adulteration in the production of various catagories of food items of daily consumption, through the unbridled use of harmful pesticides, chemicals toxic substances and other contaminants continues unabated causing grievous hurts and/or deaths among the general public; and (b) if so, the details of steps taken , including review of the extant laws, with a view to plug the loopholes and make their enforcement more effective, to check the rampant adulteration of food items?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): The standards of various food articles have been laid down under the Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Act, 1954 and Rules framed there under. The tolerance limits for pesticides, chemicals, toxic substances and other contaminants have been laid down under the said rules. Food articles sold in the markets are required to conform to the standards laid down under the said rules. The implementation of the PFA Act and Rules is entrusted to the Food (Health) Authorities of the States/U.Ts. The enforcement staff of the States/U.Ts draw random samples of various food articles under the provisions of the said Act and Rules. Action is taken against the offenders where samples of food articles do not conform to the prescribed standards.

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The Central Government has constituted a Central Committee for Food Standards (CCFS) to advise Central Government and State Govts. on the matters arising out of the administration of the PFA Act and Rules. Representatives from various States/U.Ts Govts, dept/organisations of Central Government, consumer organisations, industry are the members of this Committee. The CCFS advises the Central Government from time to time to review the PFA Rules for amendments with a view to plug the loopholes for making enforcement more effective. *********



PROHIBITED SUBSTANCE IN GUTKHA AND PAN MASALA

1173. SHRI R.K. ANAND HARISH RAWAT SANTOSH BAGRODIA K.B. KRISHNA MURTHY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware that the Gutkha and Pan Masala manufacturers are using the prohibited substance like Magnecium Carbonate in manufacturing of Gutkha and Pan Masala; (a) whether Government are also aware that prolonged use of such prohibited substance is the cause of oral cancer and fibroids in the mouth; and (b) the measures taken up by Government to stop the manufacturing of Gutkha and Pan Masala containing such substances ?

68

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): It has been reported by some of the State Governments that Gutkha and Pan Masala manufacturers are using Magnesium Carbonate in these products. In view of its adverse impact on health, addition of Magnesium Carbonate in Pan Masala is not permitted under the provision of Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955 and is a punishable offence under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954.

*******



SPURIOUS MILK

1178. SHRI AMAR SINGH ABU ASIM AZMI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether government are aware that a large quantity of synthetic milk which is injurious to health have found way in markets of Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh ,UP, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi; (b) if so, the number of persons booked for production and supply of this milk during the last two years ;and (c) whether Government propose to enact stringent law for such persons and if so, the details thereof and by when it is likely to be enacted?

69

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): As per the information received from Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi, no instance of large scale sale of synthetic milk have been reported. The information from U.P. is not available. All State/UTs Governments have been repeatedly requested to take necessary action to keep a strict vigil on the quality of milk particularly for presence of chemical substances. Sale of milk and milk products containing substances not found in milk except as provided in the Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955 is already prohibited under the provisions of same Act.

********



ADULTERATED AND SYNTHETIC MILK

1172. SHRI HARISH RAWAT R.K. ANAND K.B. KRISHNA MURTHY SANTOSH BAGRODIA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that adulterated and synthetic milk is being sold through various retail outlets in the country. (b) If so, the percentage of total milk production in the country which is unadulterated; (c) The likely adverse effects of adulterated milk if consumed by infants and children; (d) The steps Government have initiated so far and propose to take in near future; and

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(e) The number of persons booked for production and supply of adulterated and synthetic milk during the last three years?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): No such reports have been received from the State/UTs Governments, who are responsible for implementing Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 and Rules 1955 in the States/UTs. (b): As per the information received from Ministry of Agriculture, the production of milk is as follows: Year Production

(in million tonnes)

2001-2002

84.60

2002-2003

86.20

2003-2004

88.10

(c): Genuine milk contains naturally occurring urea which is a metabolic product of protein present in the diet of the animals. If urea is present in milk beyond normal levels then such milk would be classified as adulterated milk. Milk may also be adulterated by using vegetable fats, liquid detergents, shampoo, caustic soda, urea, castor oil, etc. Consumption of detergent can have an abrasive effect on the intestinal brush border membrane. Excess urea can affect immune system adversely. The effects would, however, depend upon the quantity of adulterants and the level of the consumption. (d): Sale of milk and milk products containing substances not found in milk except as provided in the Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955 is already prohibited under the provisions of the same Act.

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All State/UTs Governments have been requested to take necessary action from time to time to keep a strict vigil on the quality of milk, particularly for presence of chemical substances. In December, 2004, the Chief Secretaries in the States/UTs have also been urged for keeping a strict vigil on the quality of milk sold in their States/UTs. (e): A statement indicating the number of prosecutions launched, convicted and acquitted under PFA Act, 1954 for food adulteration including milk and milk products during last three years is at Annexure I. ANNEXURE-I Total no. of prosecution launched, convicted and acquitted under PFA Act, 1954 for food adulteration including milk and milk products during last three years

Year No. of prosecution launched

No. of cases decided by the Courts

No. of cases convicted

No. of cases acquitted

2001 5943 2704 1263 1441 2002* 2867 1333 420 913

2003** 1536 779 319 460

*Information is awaited from the State of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, J&K, Orissa, Tamilnadu, Uttaranchal, Jharkhand and Chandigarh. **Information is awaited from Andaman Nicobar Isalnds, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu, Delhi, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Orissa, Pondicherry, Punjab, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, UP & Jharkhand.

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NEW GUIDELINES FOR PROCESSED FOOD ITEMS

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3462. SHRI EKANATH K. THAKUR Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether his Ministry proposes to make it mandatory for the manufacturers of processed food items to mention the details of the ingredients on the labels including the fat content and the technique used in its manufacture and storage; and (b) If so, the details of the new rules and when they are likely to be implemented?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): Yes Sir, the Central Committee for Food Standards a statutory committee under the Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Act, 1954 recommended the amendment of PFA Rules, 1955 to declare the complete nutritional information of the food product on its label. The complete nutritional information per 100 gm of the product shall be given on the label containing the following: - (i) Information on energy value should be expressed in kJ and Kcal per 100 gm or per 100 ml alongwith percentage of nutrient of Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). (ii) Information on the amounts of protein, carbohydrate and fat in the food should be expressed in gm per 100 gm or per 100 ml alongwith percentage RDA of nutrient recommended by ICMR. (iii) The amount and/or type of saturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids. (iv) Numerical information on vitamins and minerals should be expressed in metric units and/or as a percentage of the Nutrient Reference Value of ICMR per 100 gm or per 100 ml alongwith percentage of nutrient of RDA of ICMR. The above proposal has been published in Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i) of the Gazette of India (Extraordinary) vide GSR No. 694(E) dated 28.11.2005 for inviting objections and suggestions from the public. While finalising the draft rules, the objections and suggestions received on the draft rules would be taken into consideration after a period of sixty days from the date on which the copies of the Official Gazette, in which this notification is published, are made available to public. ********

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FOREST



FOREST RICH STATES

5460. SHRIMATI KAMLA MANHAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the names of the States having forest area more than the National average; (b) whether the Hon`ble Supreme Court has directed that forest rich States be compensated for protecting and conserving their forests for larger environmental benefits to the country; and (c) in the light of Hon`ble Supreme Court`s direction whether Government are contemplating to compensate such forest rich States including the State of Chhattigarh?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) The names of the States having forest area more than the National average are given in Annexure I. (b) Yes Sir. (c) The Hon`ble Supreme Court, vide its order dated 18.2.2002 in I.A No. 424 in W:P.(Civil) No. 202/95, had suggested imposing a cess of not less than 5% on the import of wood and wood products to be distributed amongst the forest rich states as an incentive/compensation. Though the proposal of levying of cess was not agreed to by the Government, the Twelfth Finance Commission has recommended a grant of Rs. 1,000 crores to the States for maintenance of the forest areas. This amount has been distributed among the States based on their forest areas and is required to be spent for the preservation of their forest wealth. The State-wise and year-wise details of this grant are given in Annexure II. *******

74

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



MEASURES TO PROTECT, CONSERVE AND DEVELOP FORESTS AND

ENVIRONMENT

5477. SHRI N.R. GOVINDARAJAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the measures taken by the Government relating to protection, conservation and the development of forests and improvement of the environment ; (b) whether unscrupulous elements have constructed buildings or jungle lodges in the name of tourism in many States ; and (c) if so, the reaction of Government thereto ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) Measures taken by Government for protection, conservation and development of forests and improvement of the environment are as follows: - (i) Administrative measures: - Network of check posts, permits for felling and movement of forest produce, patrolling of the area, etc. (ii) Legal measures: - Legal measures like Indian Forest Act 1927, Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, Forest Conservation Act 1980 and Environment Protection Act 1986 and the rules, guidelines thereof. (iii) Management measures: - Management measures like working of forests according to approved Working Plans, Forest Development Agencies and Joint Forest Management. (iv) Financial measures: - Financial measures like providing assistance to the States/ Union Territories under Centrally Sponsored Schemes and Externally Aided Projects. (b) Instances of construction of buildings by unscrupulous elements have not been

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reported by States/Union Territories. (c) Does not arise.

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CUTTING OF TREES

1913. SHRIMATI KAMLA MANHAR KALRAJ MISHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that various diseases are spreading due to pollution caused by cutting of trees for speeding up the work of construction of houses and buildings in rural regions for the urbanization of several cities in the countries; and (b) if so, the details of the steps being taken by the Government to stop the cutting of trees to control the pollution?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRI.NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) Trees absorb/trap pollutants (particulates and gases) to a large extent. As such cutting of trees may increase pollution load in the area and may pose health risk. However, there is no conclusive data available to establish a relationship between cutting of trees, pollution and spread of diseases. (b) Steps being taken by the Government to stop cutting of trees are: (i) Legal measures like Indian Forest Act, 1927, Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and rules, guidelines thereof; (ii) Management measures like working of forests according to approved Working Plans, Forest Development Agencies and Joint Forest Management.

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(iii) Financial measures like providing assistance to the States/Union Territories under Centrally Sponsored Schemes and Externally Aided Projects. Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme called ‘Integrated Forest Protection Scheme’ in operation since 2002-03, funds are provided to States and Union Territories primarily for strengthening of infrastructure for protection of forests from illicit felling, fires, encroachments, etc. (iv) A network of Protected Areas (National Parks, Sanctuaries, etc.) has been established. *******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



AMENDMENT OF FOREST CONSERVATION ACT

4691. SHRI SU. THIRUNAVUKKARASAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government of India have formulated any scheme to amend the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 to settle/allot 4000 post-1978 non-tribal forest encroachers families in the Reserved Forest area in Andaman District; (b) if so, when this would be implemented; and (c) if not, Government’s decision about these families?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) No Sir. (b) Does not arise.

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(c) The Andaman and Nicobar Administration has identified revenue land for settlement of post-1978 encroachers of forest land. The identified land falls under the category of ‘Deemed Forest’. Since the Hon`ble Supreme Court of India has restrained regularisation of encroachment of forest land, the Union Territory Administration has approached the Hon`ble Court for the said purpose. ********



NATIONAL AFFORESTATION PLAN

2104. SHRI LALIT KISHORE CHATURVEDI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Forest Development Agency is set up with concurrence of the Central Government in forest divisions for implementation of forest development works under National Afforestation Plan; (b) whether any consideration is paid on the prevalent weather, soil and biological pressures in different States while earmarking the optimum cost criterion for forest development works under the said scheme; (c) whether any proposals from the Department of Forests, Rajasthan have been received for amending the accepted cost criterion for fencing the free plantation areas; and (d) whether the Central Government as per the request of Government of Rajasthan, propose to bring a provision for keeping flexibility in the optimum cost criterion?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) As per the Guidelines of National Afforestation Programme (NAP), Forest Development Agencies (FDAs) are constituted at the level of territorial/wild life forest divisions in the State and registered as society under the Societies Registration Act. FDAs are receiving financial support from Government of India for implementation of afforestation projects under NAP. (b) The NAP Guidelines provide for model cost norms for various components of the FDA projects based on existing labour wage rate of the State. (c) Yes, Sir. Proposals have been received from Rajasthan Forest Department for increasing the cost norms for fencing under NAP. (d) The main objective of NAP is to regenerate degraded forests and adjoining areas through people’s participation. NAP Guidelines, therefore, provide that the cost of fencing component should not normally exceed 5%. However, the Guidelines also provide that for projects requiring higher allocation for fencing, funds to the extent of 10% of plantation cost may be expended by effecting matching reduction in the allocation under the component ‘Overheads’. *********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



ENCROACHMENT OF FOREST LAND IN ORISSA

3407. SHRI SURENDRA LATH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that a large area of protected land reserved for village forest in K.B.K area of Orissa has been encroached upon by the people;

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(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the measures Government have taken to get rid of illegal encroachments; and (d) the results of these measures?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b) Yes, Sir. 12,071 hectares of village forests and Revenue forests land is under encroachment in K.B.K area of Orissa. (c)&(d) As a result of the eviction measures taken by the State Government, 2954 hectares of ineligible encroachments have been evicted so far. ******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



AMENDMENT OF THE FOREST CONSERVATION ACT

360. SHRI RAM JETHMALANI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the Chief Ministers of States in the country have demanded that more rights should be provided to the tribals by amending the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; (b) if so, the names of the States which have made this demand and when such demand was made; and (c) the decision taken, so far, by Government to effect amendments in the above Act?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) and (b) The Chief Ministers of some of the States have requested for settlement of rights of forest dwellers including tribals on forest land which includes regularisation of encroachments and conversion of forest villages into revenue villages. The name of the States and the date on which such demand was made is given in the Annexure. (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has already issued guidelines on 18.09.1990 under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for settlement of rights of forest dwellers including tribals over forest land. Such rights over forest land include settlement of disputed claims over forest land, regularization of pre-1980 eligible encroachments of forest land, conversion of forest villages into revenue villages and regularization of eligible pattas/grants/leases over forest land. On 03.11.2005, the Ministry has issued detailed revised guidelines for verification/recognition of such rights on forest land and has again requested the State/Union Territory Governments to complete the verification process. So far, 3.66 lakhs hectares of encroachments on forest land has been regularized and 511 forest villages have been converted into revenue villages. The process of settlement of rights over forest land came to a halt due to a ban imposed by the Hon`ble Supreme Court of India on de-reservation of forest land and regularization of encroachment of forest land vide its order dated 13.11.2000 and 23.11.2001 respectively. Since the existing guidelines provide for settlement of rights of forest dwellers including tribals on forest land, any amendment in the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 is not required. However, Ministry of Tribal Affairs in consultation with Ministry of Environment and Forests has introduced The Scheduled Tribes (Recognition of Forest Rights) Bill, 2005 in Parliament to safeguard rights of tribals on forest land and minor forest produce. ANNEXURE Name of the States Date(s) on which request for settlement of rights on forest was made Karnataka 13.11.2003 and 21.05.2005 Madhya Pradesh 07.06.2003 and 12.03.2004 Orissa 24.03.2005 Chhattisgarh 23.07.2003 Assam 20.07.2004 **********

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DEVELOPMENT OF FOREST WEALTH

2635. SHRI MANOJ BHATTACHARYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government have prepared a road map for the development of forest wealth in the country through an integrated and holistic approach of the problems of environment, wild life and tribal people; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the same has been reflected in the provision of the Scheduled Tribes (Recognition of Forest Rights) Bill, 2005 presently pending in Parliament; and (d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) & (b): Yes Sir. The Government of India has prepared a comprehensive plan (National Forestry Action Programme) for 20 years for protection, conservation, management and sustainable development of forests as well as achieving the target of 33 percent of forest/tree cover in the country. (c) & (d): The Draft Scheduled Tribes (Recognition of Forest Rights) Bill 2005, introduced by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs in the Parliament, has the provisions of rights of Scheduled Tribes on forest land and minor forest produce. The Draft Bill does not deal with the development of forest wealth. *******

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ESSENTIAL FOREST COVER FOR PROTECTION OF ENVIRONMENT

1859. SHRI S. ANBALAGAN

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the projected extent of forest cover in each State of the country which is essential for the protection of environment and the actual cover in each State; (b) whether Government propose to take any steps to increase the forest coverage in the country; . (c) if so, the details thereof including fund allocation thereof, State-wise; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) As per the National Forest Policy (1988), the national goal envisages a minimum of one-third of the total land area of the country under forest or tree cover. In the hills and in mountainous regions, the policy aims at maintaining two-third of the area under such cover in order to prevent erosion and land degradation and to ensure the stability of the fragile ecosystem. (b) & (c) The following steps have been taken to increase the forest cover in the country: (i) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has launched a major afforestation initiative called the National Afforestation Programme (NAP) during the Tenth Five Year Plan for regeneration of degraded forests and adjoining lands through people’s participation. The people-centric approach is manifested in the two-tier decentralised institutional set-up of Forest Development Agencies (FDAs) at the forest division level and Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at the village level for the implementation of NAP.

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(ii) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is also implementing Integrated Forest Protection Scheme, primarily for strengthening the infrastructure for protection of forests to control illicit felling, fires and encroachments, etc. (iii) Guidelines for rationalization of felling and transit regulations for tree species grown on non-forest private lands have been issued to the State Governments and Union Territories to encourage private tree plantations. State Governments and Union Territories have been requested to formulate and implement a comprehensive Media Plan to create mass awareness about tree planting. (d) Does not arise. ***********



NATIONAL AFFORESTATION PLAN

2104. SHRI LALIT KISHORE CHATURVEDI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Forest Development Agency is set up with concurrence of the Central Government in forest divisions for implementation of forest development works under National Afforestation Plan; (b) whether any consideration is paid on the prevalent weather, soil and biological pressures in different States while earmarking the optimum cost criterion for forest development works under the said scheme; (c) whether any proposals from the Department of Forests, Rajasthan have been received for amending the accepted cost criterion for fencing the free plantation areas; and (d) whether the Central Government as per the request of Government of Rajasthan, propose to bring a provision for keeping flexibility in the optimum cost criterion?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) As per the Guidelines of National Afforestation Programme (NAP), Forest Development Agencies (FDAs) are constituted at the level of territorial/wild life forest divisions in the State and registered as society under the Societies Registration Act. FDAs are receiving financial support from Government of India for implementation of afforestation projects under NAP. (b) The NAP Guidelines provide for model cost norms for various components of the FDA projects based on existing labour wage rate of the State. (c) Yes, Sir. Proposals have been received from Rajasthan Forest Department for increasing the cost norms for fencing under NAP. (d) The main objective of NAP is to regenerate degraded forests and adjoining areas through people’s participation. NAP Guidelines, therefore, provide that the cost of fencing component should not normally exceed 5 percent. However, the Guidelines also provide that for projects requiring higher allocation for fencing, funds to the extent of 10 percent of plantation cost may be expended by effecting matching reduction in the allocation under the component ‘Overheads’.

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ENCROACHMENT OF FOREST AREA IN CARDAMOM HILL

3402. SHRI N.K. PREMACHANDRAN

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) how many acres of land in the Cardamom Hill area in the Idukki district of Kerala has been declared as reserve forest and whether the boundaries of reserve forest area have been clearly demarcated; (b) whether any encroachment in that forest area has been brought to the notice of

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Government and the steps, if any, taken by Government for assigning land to encroachers; and (c) whether Government accorded permission to the State Government to issue title deeds for the encroachers of Cardamom Hill resource area and if so, the details thereof?.

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): As per the original notification, Cardamom Hill Reserve (CHR) extends over an area of 15,720 acres. However, there is variation in the area of CHR as it exists in the notification, and as on ground. (b) & (c): Yes Sir. On the basis of the proposal received from the Government of Kerala, 20,363 hectares of forest land was diverted during 1995 by the Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for regularisation of encroachment of forest land falling under CHR and to assign the land under the Kerala Land Assignment (Regularisation of Occupations of Forestlands prior to 01.01.1977) Special Rules, 1993 subject to certain conditions. The State Government is required to furnish monthly reports to the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India, giving the progress of forest land so assigned. An application was filed before the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) by Òne Earth One Life`, a non-government organization, regarding illegal grant of leases and encroachment in CHR area. The CEC has filed its report before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India and the matter is sub-judice. ********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



RELEASE OF FOREST LAND FOR DEVELOPMENT OF PILGRIM CENTRES

3422. SHRI VARINDER SINGH BAJWA

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Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government have taken any decision to release forest land for the development of pilgrim centres which are located in forest areas; and (b) if so, the details thereof?.

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b): The Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India, has diverted about 140 hectares of forest land under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 during the last three years and the current year for development of pilgrim centres in various States. **********

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GLOBAL WARMING AND CLIMATE CHANGE



EMISSION OF GREENHOUSE GAS

1858. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY RAASHID ALVI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether India has asked developed countries to reduce their emission of greenhouse gases with respect to baseline of year 1990 over a period of time and to provide technical and financial assistance to developing countries to facilitate cleaner development there; (b) whether efforts made so far, by developing countries have been dismal and it is essential for these countries to take up greenhouse gas mitigation measures; (c) if so, what are other steps Government have urged to do in this regard; and (d) to what extent developing countries have agreed to the suggestions made by India in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): According to the Kyoto Protocol of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), developed countries (Annex-I Parties) have to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by at least 5.2 per cent from their 1990 emission level. Under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Protocol, greenhouse gas reduction project activities would be taken up in developing countries and the carbon credits they generate would be bought by developed countries to meet their commitments under the Protocol. (b) to (d): Under the Kyoto Protocol only developed Countries (Annex-I Parties) have quantified commitments to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Developing countries

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have no such quantified commitments but are required to develop, periodically update and report their national inventories of anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases in accordance with the Framework Convention and take other appropriate measures to mitigate climate change and facilitate adequate adaptation to climate change. India and a number of other developing countries have submitted their initial national communication in fulfillment of these obligations. A number of developing countries, including India have also taken up measures to mitigate climate change such as encouraging renewable sources of energy, energy efficiency in thermal power plants, afforestation and reforestation schemes and have also promoted projects under the Clean Development Mechanism of the Protocol which reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. ********

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HAZARDOUS WASTE



SHIP FOR SCRAP CARRYING CARCINOGENIC ASBESTOS INSULATION

5479. SHRI EKANATH K. THAKUR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the Danish Government have alerted India about a toxic ship-for-scrap carrying carcinogenic asbestos insulation headed for Alang yard in Gujarat; (b) whether it is also a fact that the Danish Government have requested Indian Government to declare the ship as illegal traffic and refuse to allow it to be dumped in India; and (c) if so, the action proposed?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (c): The Danish Government have informed the Indian Government regarding arrival of a ship in India for dismantling carrying asbestos which is used as insulation of the machinery. It has also been mentioned that as per the Danish legislation on wastes, the said ship is characterised as waste. The ship was beached at Alang on 3.4.2005. The officers from Customs, Gujarat Maritime Board, Central Pollution Control Board and Gujarat Pollution Control Board have verified and found that there is no hazardous waste on board of the ship.

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HAZARDS TO POPULATION IN THE VICINITY OF THERMAL POWER PLANTS

1125. SHRI PYARIMOHAN MOHAPATRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government is aware of the serious hazards being caused to the population in the vicinity of Thermal Power Plants by fly ash and the extensive damage being caused to the top soil all over the country by the manufacturing of bricks; and (b) if so, whether Government would consider prohibiting the use of bricks made from soil in all buildings within a radius of 200 Kms from Thermal Power Plants and giving adequate transport subsidy to make use of flyash bricks viable?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The Government of India is aware of the environmental problems caused by the fly ash generated by the Thermal Power Plants and also excavation of topsoil for the manufacture of clay bricks. (b): The Government vide its Notification No. S.O. 763 (E) dated 14th September, 1999 has already restricted the excavation of topsoil for manufacture of bricks within a specified radius of 100 kilometres from coal or lignite Thermal Power Plants. As per the provisions of the notification, no person shall within a radius of 100 kilometres from coal or lignite based Thermal Power Plants can manufacture clay bricks or tiles or blocks for use in construction activities without mixing at least 25 percent of ash (fly ash or bottom ash) with soil. At present there is no proposal to provide transport subsidy for making fly ash bricks.

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UNION CARBIDE PLANT IN BHOPAL

1890. SHRI A. VIJAYARAGHAVAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Competent Authority has taken any measures of security against the dangerously/chemically affected surroundings and campus soil of the Union Carbide Plant in Bhopal; (b) if so , the details thereof; (c) whether the above chemically affected plant premises are open and accessible to the general public; (d) if so, the action taken to protect the public from health hazards of the plant premises; and (e) whether the Competent Authority has taken any action on the report submitted by the Bhopal Commission on the environmental/industrial aspect of the Bhopal Gas leak from the Union Carbide Plant in Bhopal ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): As per information made available by Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers , Government of Madhya Pradesh has taken suitable measures to secure the dangerously/chemically affected surroundings and campus soil of the Union Carbide Plant in Bhopal. Hazardous materials like tarry residue (46.50MT), contaminated soil (127 MT) and semi-processed pesticides (18.40 MT) have been collected and separately stored in four halls/sheds in the factory premises. The Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers has entrusted the work of planning the methodology of removal of toxic wastes and preparing the cost estimates to Engineers India Limited. (c)&(d): Security guards have been appointed by the State Government to provide round the clock security to protect the general public from health hazards of the plant premises. (e): Bhopal Commission, an NGO is reported to have submitted a report to the State Government in April 2002. As the government is already providing adequate help to the

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gas victims through relief and rehabilitation measures, it is felt that no useful purpose would be served by organising a conference/workshop as suggested by the Commission.

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UNION CARBIDE PLANT IN BHOPAL

1890. SHRI A. VIJAYARAGHAVAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Competent Authority has taken any measures of security against the dangerously/chemically affected surroundings and campus soil of the Union Carbide Plant in Bhopal; (b) if so , the details thereof; (c) whether the above chemically affected plant premises are open and accessible to the general public; (d) if so, the action taken to protect the public from health hazards of the plant premises; and (e) whether the Competent Authority has taken any action on the report submitted by the Bhopal Commission on the environmental/industrial aspect of the Bhopal Gas leak from the Union Carbide Plant in Bhopal ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b) As per information made available by Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers , Government of Madhya Pradesh has taken suitable measures to secure the dangerously/chemically affected surroundings

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and campus soil of the Union Carbide Plant in Bhopal. Hazardous materials like tarry residue (46.50MT), contaminated soil (127 MT) and semi-processed pesticides (18.40 MT) have been collected and separately stored in four halls/sheds in the factory premises. The Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers has entrusted the work of planning the methodology of removal of toxic wastes and preparing the cost estimates to Engineers India Limited. (c)&(d) Security guards have been appointed by the State Government to provide round the clock security to protect the general public from health hazards of the plant premises. (e) Bhopal Commission, an NGO is reported to have submitted a report to the State Government in April 2002. As the government is already providing adequate help to the gas victims through relief and rehabilitation measures, it is felt that no useful purpose would be served by organising a conference/workshop as suggested by the Commission.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



FACTORIES AFFECTING THE QUALITY OF WATER IN METRO CITIES

1895. SHRI C. RAMACHANDRAIAH RAJU PARMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government is fully aware of the fact that a large number of factories have affected the quality of water in the metropolitan cities; (b) whether it is fact that water in many metropolitan and capital cities has been non-potable due to effluents discharged by these factories; and (c) if so, the steps Government have taken in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) ( a ), ( b ) & ( c ) The industries discharging wastewater have been identified by the State

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Pollution Control Boards/ Pollution Control Committees. These industries have been directed by the concerned State Pollution Control Board / Pollution Control Committees to set-up requisite pollution control measures. The effluent discharge standards have been stipulated for these industries and concerned State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees have directed these units to set up requisite pollution control equipments. In case of non-compliance, necessary legal actions are initiated as per provisions of various environmental acts.

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DISPOSAL OF WASTE

2089. SHRI VIJAY J. DARDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) Whether Government are aware that in clear violation of the Supreme Court order on hazardous waste disposal, industrial effluent and sludge is being dumped on the streets in the Wazirpur Industrial Area as the common effluent treatment plant is not working; (b) If so, the steps Government have taken to ensure that the Supreme Court orders are fully implemented; and (c) Whether with this state of affairs, precautionary measures have been adopted so that resultant diseases do not infect the residents?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI. NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b): As per information made available by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Government of Delhi, the Wazirpur Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) is not working since 13/5/2005. DPCC has issued directions to the industrial units for the operation of the Effluent Treatment Plant.

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Authorizations for handling hazardous waste are granted to these units as per the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 amended 2000 and 2003 and as per directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in Writ Petition 657/95. Development of a temporary hazardous waste storage facility has been assigned to M/s Ramkee Infrastructure by Delhi State Industrial Development Corporation (DSIDC). (c) A new Industrial Waste Water Conveyance System has been laid by Delhi Jal Board and the DSIDC has been directed completion of repair works of CETP by 15/8/2005. A permanent site for Treatment, Storage, Disposal Facility (TSDF) for hazardous waste generated in Delhi has been identified in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. *******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



POLLUTION CAUSED BY CARBON AND CHEMICAL WASTES

1107. SHRI BHAGWATI SINGH JANESHWAR MISHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware of the fact that the target of neat and clean development has failed due to the pollution caused by the carbon and chemical wastes generated from industries; (b) if so, the measures taken by Government to tackle the said problem; (c) whether the imported waste is also responsible for the said problem; and (d) if so, the action being taken by Government for tackling it?

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ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIAN MEENA) (a)&(b) The Government have notified various environmental legislations such as the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, the Air (Prevention and Control Of Pollution) Act, 1981 and the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended, under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 for control of pollution caused by waste generated from industries. The industries are requited to set-up requisite pollution control facilities to comply with the notified emission and effluent standards. Under the Hazardous Waste Rules, the generator has also to obtain an authorisation from the concerned State Pollution Control Board for handling the same. (c)&(d) The import of waste is regulated under the provisions of the Hazardous Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 and its amendments, which prescribes the norms and procedures for import of waste and its subsequent handling. ********



INCREASE IN HAZARDOUS WASTE UNITS

1100. SHRI N.R. GOVINDARAJAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware that there is an increase of hazardous waste units in the country and there is no proper check on them; (b) whether the State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Centres have been asked to submit their reports about implementation of Government order on hazardous waste units; and (c) if so, the details thereof and steps taken by Government to check the spread of hazardous waste units in the country?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) of Union Territories have carried out inventories in accordance with the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended. It is observed that there is an increase in the number of hazardous waste generating units in the country. The mare reason for it is the amendments issued to the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 in the year 2003, according to which the classification of hazardous waste generating units has been increased from the earlier 18 categories to 36 industrial processes and the corresponding waste streams. The purpose of this is to bring all possible hazardous waste generating processes under the purview of the Rules, so that the waste generated by them is effectively managed by the concerned SPCBs /PCCs. (b)&(c): All the SPCBs and the PCCs of Union Territories have been asked to carryout the above inventories on hazardous waste generating units and the quantities of hazardous waste generation in accordance with the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Amendment Rules, 2003 and also to submit the inventory reports to the Central Pollution Control Board. The Government have notified the Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended, to regulate and properly manage the hazardous waste generated in the country as well as the wastes imported into the country for recycling purposes. Rule-5 of these Rules provides that every occupier handling, or a recycler recycling hazardous waste shall obtain authorisation from the respective State Pollution Control Boards or Pollution Control Committees for collection, reception, treatment, storage and disposal of hazardous wastes. In addition, such units are also required to obtain necessary consents under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. *********



ACTION UNDER BATTERY MANAGEMENT AND HANDLING RULES

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2090. SHRI S.M. LALJAN BASHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the State Pollution Boards have, so far, taken any action against erring organisations under the Battery (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001; (b) if so, the details of the action taken; (c) whether there is any action plan of his Ministry to bring awareness of the Rules among the various parties connected with the Rules; (d) if so, the details of such action plan; and (e) if not, whether there is any proposal to have such an action plan?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b): As per the Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001, the State Pollution Control Boards are the prescribed authority to ensure compliance of the provisions under the rules and provide information on the status of compliance to the Central Pollution Control Board. Seventy-four units have been registered for recycling of batteries by the Central Pollution Control Board under the Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended in 2003. (c), (d) & (e): According to the Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001, it is the responsibility of the manufacturer, importer, assembler, re-conditioner and recycler of the batteries to create public awareness through advertisements, publications and posters. Awareness workshops have been organised by Indian Lead Zinc Development Association (ILZDA) and the Indian Battery Manufacturers Association for the benefit of recyclers and battery manufacturers. Also media such as radio and television are used to create mass awareness among the public. ******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



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DISPOSAL OF WASTE

2089. SHRI VIJAY J. DARDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) Whether Government are aware that in clear violation of the Supreme Court order on hazardous waste disposal, industrial effluent and sludge is being dumped on the streets in the Wazirpur Industrial Area as the common effluent treatment plant is not working; (b) If so, the steps Government have taken to ensure that the Supreme Court orders are fully implemented; and (c) Whether with this state of affairs, precautionary measures have been adopted so that resultant diseases do not infect the residents?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI. NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b): As per information made available by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Government of Delhi, the Wazirpur Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) is not working since May 13, 2005. DPCC has issued directions to the industrial units for the operation of the Effluent Treatment Plant. Authorisations for handling hazardous waste are granted to these units as per the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 amended 2000, 2003 and as per directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in Writ Petition 657/95. Development of a temporary hazardous waste storage facility has been assigned to M/s Ramkee Infrastructure by Delhi State Industrial Development Corporation (DSIDC). (c): A new Industrial Waste Water Conveyance System has been laid by Delhi Jal Board and the DSIDC has been directed completion of repair works of CETP by August 15, 2005. A permanent site for Treatment, Storage, Disposal Facility (TSDF) for hazardous waste generated in Delhi has been identified in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan. *******

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HEALTH



BANNING AYURVEDIC MEDICINES

3442. SHRI MOTILAL VORA PREMA CARIAPPA UDAY PRATAP SINGH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that a ban has been imposed on Indian ayurvedic medicines by Canada, Britain and the European Union; (b) whether Government’s attention has been drawn to the reports appearing in the foreign media on high metallic content in the ayurvedic/herbal products being exported from India; (c) if so, the reasons therefor and the reaction of Government thereto; (d) whether any efforts have been made by Government to retain the quality of ayurvedic medicines ; (e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (f): The Canadian Government has recently imposed a ban on the 10 Indian Ayurvedic and Unani medicinal products on the ground that they contain high levels of metals such as lead, mercury and/or arsenic. No such ban has been imposed by U.K. and European Union on Indian Ayurvedic Medicines. Indian Ayurvedic products have always been sold as food supplements in the EU market. The recent Directive 2004/24/EC which has caused some concern is in fact only

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an amendment to the earlier Directive 2001/83/EC on the community code relating to medicinal products for human use to harmonise and put on fast track the registration of traditional herbal medicines. The issue regarding registration of Ayurvedic medicines has been taken up with the European Union. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of AYUSH is committed to standardisation and Quality Control of Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani (ASU) drugs in pursuance of which a number of initiatives have been taken. Central Government has notified Good Manufacturing Practices for Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani medicines. Central Government has issued an order on October 14, 2005 under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 to be effective from January 1, 2006 providing for mandatory testing for heavy metals for Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani medicines which are to be exported. Orders have also been issued to all State Licensing Authorities to ensure that all Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani drug manufacturing units become Good Manufacturing Practices compliant and that they should display on the container of a medicine or a leaflet inside the container the names and quantities of all ingredients used in the medicine. If any ASU medicine has any potentially toxic ingredient, there should be a statutory warming on the container regarding its use ‘Under Medical Supervision’. **********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE RAJYA SABHA


DENGUE AND MALARIA CASES IN THE COUNTRY

1150. SHRI JANESHWAR MISHRA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware of the number of persons becoming victims of dengue and malaria in the country, if so the details thereof; (b) whether Government have formulated any comprehensive scheme to deal with the challenge posed by mosquitoes, if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government and administration of the hospitals are aware of the number of persons who have died due to these diseases, so far, in the country and the number of persons still admitted in the hospitals; and

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(d) the details of the steps taken by Government for the prevention of these diseases in the States ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (d): The reported number of cases and deaths by the states during 2001 to 2005 indicates that the highest number of 12754 dengue cases and 215 deaths were during the year 2003. The dengue cases declined to 4153 with 45 deaths during 2004. In the current year, the states have reported 9463 cases and 70 deaths till Nov 22, 2005. The number of cases and deaths due to Dengue as reported by the state health authorities is given at Annexure-1.

There is no increase in the number of malaria cases in the country. The number of malaria cases in 2002 was 1.84 million, which remained at the same level of 1.84 million in the year 2004. The numbers of deaths were 973 in 2002 and 944 in the year 2004. During the current year up to August 2005, 0.77 million cases were reported as against 0.81 million cases of corresponding period in the year 2004. The number of cases and deaths due to malaria reported by states is given at Annexure-1.

Annexure - 1

The country wide data for the past three years is presented below:

Year Dengue Cases

Dengue Deaths

Malaria Cases

Malaria deaths

2002 1926 33 1842019 973

2003 12754 215 1869403 1006

2004 4153 45 1844413 944

2005 9463 70 771560 464

Dengue reported up to 22.11.2005 and Malaria reported up to Nov. 05

Govt. of India provides assistance in the form of cash and commodities to the

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States/UTs for implementation of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme including prevention and control of malaria and dengue. The details of the assistance provided is given in Annexure – 2. Annexure - 2 During the last three years the assistance provided to various states/UTs by Govt. of India is as below:

Year Assistance provided (Rs. in crore) 2002-03 206.82

2003-04 201.01 2004-05 216.66

2005-06 (Allocation)

348.45

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JUNK FOOD HABIT AMONG THE PEOPLE

1164. SHRI VARINDER SINGH BAJWA DARA SINGH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether government are aware that junk food is fast gaining popularity in metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Chandigarh and Delhi wherein people are getting quickly attracted towards it;

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(b) if so, whether the food experts the world over, have expressed their concern over increasing consumption of junk food as a large number of children and youths are falling victims; (c) if so, whether Government propose to take concrete steps to check the expanding junk food culture in order to save our children from its adverse impact; (d) if so, by when ; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (e): There is no specific definition for junk food. The phrase ‘junk food’ is used to denote such food which have high levels of calories and have little enzyme producing vitamins and minerals. When such food is consumed, the body is required to produce its own enzymes to convert these empty calories into usable energy. This is not desirable as this enzymes producing function in human body should be reserved for the performance of vital metabolic reactions. There is an increasing trend particularly among school children and adolescent population to consume ‘junk food’ which is rich in calories but low in nutritive value. However, there is no large scale data on the extent of consumption of junk foods. There is a concern world over regarding the increasing consumption of highly refined foods with only energy and little or no vitamins and minerals. There are studies to indicate that there is a positive correlation between consumption of foods with empty calories and chronic degenerative diseases as well as hypertension, obesity, cardio vascular problems and glucose intolerance. A study conducted by All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) - Department of Science & Technology (DST) in 2002 found that the consumption of junk food is increasing in schools and adolescent population. The same study has shown that this trend and associated life style factors in urban adolescent and young adult population has resulted in increase of non-communicable diseases among the young population. The need for education of general public to avoid junk food has increased and efforts are being made by Government, nutritionists and dieticians to make people aware of its harmful effects. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has also prepared IEC material advising avoidance of junk food by all age groups of the population. These materials have been circulated to all the States and are also displayed and distributed during ‘health melas’ organised by this Ministry. The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) has developed dietary guidelines for Indians, where it has been suggested that

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ready to eat foods should be consumed judiciously and ‘free sugar’ should be used sparingly. ********



MALARIA DEATHS IN NORTH EASTERN STATES

4731. SHRIMATI SYEDA ANWARA TAIMUR Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the North-Eastern States report half of the country’s malaria deaths ; (b) whether Government have initiated any plan to bring down the percentage of malaria deaths in North-Eastern States; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether water-borne diseases are also quite prevalent in the North-Eastern region; and (e) if so, the steps taken to control water borne diseases in this region?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): The North-Eastern States comprise around 4% of country’s population and distribute around 8% of total malaria cases and about 20% deaths. As per reports received from the State Health authorities, total number of malaria cases has declined in N.E. States during the past few years.

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The details of malaria morbidity and mortality during the last four years in N.E. States are given below:- Year Positive Cases A.P.I Deaths Pv Pf Total 2001 99165 107329 206494 5.29 211 2002 90711 89630 180341 4.59 162 2003 73517 83288 156805 3.93 169 2004 31360 63534 94894 2.38 162 Pf: Plasmodium falciparum malaria cases A.P.I: Annual Parasite Incidence (b) & (c): All the North-Eastern States are being provided 100% central assistance to tackle the malaria situation since December 1994. This includes operational cost apart from supply of anti-malaria drugs, insecticides, bed nets and synthetic pyrethroids required for treatment of bed nets. Seven North-Eastern States have also been included under Intensified Malaria Control Project (IMCP) of Global Funds for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria to provide drugs for treatment of chloroquine resistant Plasmodium falciparum cases and acceleration of early detection of malaria cases and their treatment. (d) & (e): Reported number of cases and deaths due to water-borne diseases such as Acute Diarroheal Diseases (ADD), Viral Hepatitis and Enteric fever from North-Eastern States during the years 2000 to 2003 is given at Annexure. Only 9 cases of Cholera have been reported in the year 2002 in Manipur with no mortality. No reports of cholera in 2000 and 2001. To strengthen surveillance activities and promote early detection of outbreak and institute appropriate action for prevention and control of water-borne diseases, ‘National Surveillance Programme for Communicable Diseases’ (NSPCD) under Central Sector Health Scheme has been implemented since 1997-98 in a phased manner. Currently, NSPCD is in operation in 101 districts of the country including 9 districts of North-Eastern States which have been taken up under the Phase-1 of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Project (IDSP). It is envisaged to cover the North-Eastern States under second phase of the IDSP.

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ANNEXURE Cases and Deaths Reported due to Water-borne Diseases from North-Eastern States ENTERIC FEVER: States 2000 2001 2002 2003 Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Manipur 8765 1 4349 0 5353 2 1435 0 Meghalaya 29149 1 42193 1 2454 0 3822 3 Mizoram 477 3 466 6 447 2 520 4 Nagaland 1968 0 3917 0 18187 0 1712 0 Sikkim 42 0 496 0 397 1 179 0 Tripura 1263 2 3889 2 1171 1 1545 11 VIRAL HEPATITIS: States 2000 2001 2002 2003 Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Manipur 728 7 1558 0 426 0 310 0 Meghalaya 301 1 500 8 472 1 413 3 Mizoram 943 2 1183 11 1164 9 744 8 Nagaland 408 0 144 0 157 0 127 0 Sikkim 594 5 409 1 322 2 414 2 Tripura 113 8 1784 9 105 2 86 3 ACUTE DIARROHEAL DISEASE (ADD): States 2000 2001 2002 2003 Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Cases Deaths Cases Death Manipur 31844 14 29436 14 29393 8 18478 14 Meghalaya 13878 22 148961 43 135153 25 111509 279 Mizoram 13022 8 15882 11 15013 21 14899 14 Nagaland 2596 3 19669 0 30116 0 2924 0 Sikkim 32217 28 41419 8 40419 7 42843 5 Tripura 36410 16 50873 22 44241 23 27900 35

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MALARIA SPREAD IN INDIA

3958. SHRI MANOJ BHATTACHARYA N.K. PREMACHANDRAN Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the attention of Government has been drawn towards the media report on WHO’s concern that more than half-a-billion people suffer from the deadliest form of Plasmodum falciparum Malaria in India and other countries of Asia and Africa; and (b) if so, Government’s reaction thereto and the steps proposed to be taken in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a)&(b): WHO has reported that they have not conducted or technically supported any recent study on the malaria situation in the member countries including India. However, the study recently published in Nature (Vol.434/10th March/2005) by Mr. Robert W. Snow and others deals with mapping the global distribution of clinical episodes of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) Malaria. The report does not mention about the increase in malaria cases in India. In fact, WHO has challenged the report regarding alarming rise in the incidence of Pf malaria. Incidence of malaria as well as the Plasmodium falciparum cases in the country has been showing declining trend over the past few years. Epidemiological situation of malaria in the country since the year 2000 is given below:- Year Positive Cases Pf cases Deaths (in million) (in million) 2000 2.03 1.05 932 2001 2.09 1.01 1005 2002 1.84 0.90 973 2003 1.86 0.86 1006 2004 1.73 0.80 832 (Provisional)

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The strategies for control of malaria includes surveillance, early diagnosis and prompt treatment of cases, sustainable vector control including indoor residual spray with insecticide treated bed nets, use of larvivorous fish, etc. besides training, information, education and communication (IEC) to enlist community involvement. *********



REVIVAL OF MALARIA

4728. SHRIMATI JAYA BACHCHAN Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that reappearance of mosquitoes throughout the country has resulted in revival of Malaria; (b) whether Government have conducted any research on Malaria repellants like planting of Marigold flowers or other such measures; if so, the details thereof; (c) whether inadequate sewerage in cities and towns is one of the factors for reappearance of mosquitoes and revival of Malaria; and (d) if so, the steps Government have taken to deal with the situation?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): The mosquito nuisance is determined by several factors like unplanned urbanisation, physical environment, life style of the people and water-management system. There are several species of the mosquitoes which have different breeding habits. The mosquito for

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spread of malaria i.e. Ànopheles` usually breeds in clean water. The effective control of mosquito can be achieved by environmental modifications and manipulations. The National Malaria Control Programme was started by the Govt. of India in 1953 which was converted to National Malaria Eradication Programme in 1958. There was spectacular reduction of malaria incidence as well as deaths. However, during late 1970`s there was resurgence of malaria due to operational, technical and administrative factors. With the introduction of Modified Plan of Operation in 1977, the number of malaria cases declined from 6.4 million to below 2 million in 2002. Since then the number of cases of malaria has remained below 2 million. (b): Though there are some reports in literature about the insecticidal and repellent activity of the extracts of Tagetus (Marigold), these have not been used/studied as malaria repellent by planting of Marigold flowers and other plants in the country. There is however a report on a study conducted by scientists from Kenya and Ethiopia on live potted plants including Tagetus (Marigold) tested as mosquito repellent which did not show any significant repellent effect of Tagetus. (c) & (d): Bad sewerage system cause breeding of Culex mosquitoes but malaria transmitting Anopheles mosquitos do not breed in sewer water. The Govt. of India has a well defined Programme viz. National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) for control of malaria in the country adopting strategies which include surveillance, early diagnosis and prompt treatment of cases, sustainable vector control including Indoor Residual Spray with insecticides treated bed nets, use of larvivorous fish etc. besides training, information, education and communication to enlist community involvement. Urban Malaria Scheme is also being implemented in 131 towns in the country to reduce density of mosquitoes and to prevent spread of malaria. ********



TOXICANT IN DRINKING WATER

4723. SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that as per the report of World Health Organization high contents of SANKHIYA (toxicant) beyond its limit has been found in potable water of some the States; (b) whether 8 districts of the West Bengal and 200 villages of Bihar are badly affected

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with the same; (c) whether 45 lakh people of West Bengal are compelled to drink such toxicant water; (d) the action Government are taking in the matter of higher content of SANKHIYA (toxicant) in potable water ; and (e) number of States where potable water doesn’t comply with the health standards along with the district-wise details thereof?.

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a)&(e): There is no authentic information reported by WHO of high contents of SANKHIYA (toxicant) beyond its limits found in potable water. However, as per water quality survey ordered by Govt. of India the following States have reported occurrence of arsenic in drinking water sources as per details given below:- 1. Bihar - 45 habitations 2. Chattisgarh - 11 habitations 3. West Bengal- 4973 habitations Total - 5029 habitations Details are placed at Annex I. (b) & (c): The State Government have confirmed that 8 districts of West Bengal are affected with arsenic. Regarding Bihar, there is no information about 200 villages effected by arsenic contamination. (d): Actions taken by Govt. of India is placed at Annex.ll.

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ANNEXURE

WATER QUALITY AFFECTED HABITATIONS REPORTED BY - STATES (as on 31,03.2004)

(On the basis of survey ordered in March, 2000)

Habitations Affected by

State/UT Fluoride Salinity Iron Arsenic Nitrate Multiple Total Andhra Pradesh 3072 973 5 0 0 0 405O Arunachal Pradesh

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Assam 0 0 7585 0 0 534 8119 Bihar 43 0 629 45 50 9 776 Chhattisgarh 17 61 4932 11 0 0 5021 Goa 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Gujarat 4341 2575 0 0 1336 465 8717 Haryana 144 72 0 0 0 145 361 Himachal Pradesh 0 0 0 0 0

0 0

Jharkhaand 15 0 113 0 1 39 168 Jammu & Kashmir

0 0 49 0 0 0 49

Karnataka 5838 4460 6633 0 4077 0 21008 Kerala 34 86 564 0 78 105 867 Madhya Pradesh 3764 604 856 0 0 157 5381 Maharashtra 800 2077 196 0 296 418 3787 Manipur 0 0 37 0 0 0 37 Meghalaya 160 0 0 0 160

Mizoram 0 0 26 0 0 0 26 Nagaland 0 0 157 0 0 0 157 Orissa 504 771 30979 0 0 0 32254 Punjab 613 1291 189 0 0 0 2093 Rajasthan 8992 5428 131 0 7882 18639 41072 Sikkim 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Tamilnadu 737 674 1058 0 237 2868 5574 Tripura

0 0 6850 0 0 181 7031

Uttaranchal 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Uttar Pradesh 1046 295 2198 0 1 1522 5062 West Bengal 1346 4126 54711 4973 0

0 65156

A & N Islands 0 0 16 0 0 10 26 D & R Haveli 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

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http://164.100.24.219/annex/204/AU4723.htm

Daman & Diu 0 0 0 0 0 0 o Delhi 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Lakshadweep 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pondicherry 0 0 14 0 0 0 16 Chandigarh 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 31306 23495 118088 5029 13958 25092 216968

Rural Drinking Water supply is a State subject. Government of India introduced the centrally sponsored Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP) in 1972-1973 to accelerate coverage of problem villages by rendering financial and technical assistance to States. The entire programme was given a mission approach when the National Drinking Water Mission (NDWM) was set up in 1986. NDWM was renamed as Rajiv Gandhi National Drinking Water Mission (RGNDWM) in 1991.

2. The primary objective of RGNDWM was to improve the performance and cost effectiveness of the on going programmes in the field of rural drinking water supply and sanitation and help ensure availability of adequate quantity of drinking water of acceptable quality on a long-term basis.

3. Rural drinking water supply is largely dependent on ground water (85%). Though ground water is less susceptible to pollution as compared to surface water, it is affected by the composition of earth’s crust. Leaching action of the arsenic bearing rocks at some places leads to occurrence of arsenic in ground water.

4. Contamination of ground water with arsenic was first noticed in 6 districts in West Bengal in the early 1980s. The first attempt to tackle the problem was made in 1988 by sanctioning an investigative study under the R&D programmes. Thereafter, several R&D projects as well as field-oriented programmes were sanctioned in the arsenic affected areas.

5. At the instance of RGNDWM, the states carried out a survey of quality-affected habitations in 1991 based on 1 percent random sampling. As per results of this survey, 3,133 habitations in West Bengal have found to be affected with arsenic contamination. Another survey in 2 phases was ordered in the year 2000, based on 5 to 10% stratified sampling of sources in each Block in Phase-I, followed by Phase-II in which 100% testing sources was done in the block where quality affected sources were found in the Phase 1. The West Bengal Government has reported 4,973 habitations affected with arsenic contamination in 75 blocks in 8 districts, namely, 24 Pargans Sourth, 24 Parganas North, Malda, Nadia, Bardwan, Murshidabad, Hoogly and Howrah. The total population at risk in these 75 blocks of 8 districts is estimated at 16 million.

6. Among the various techniques developed for removal of arsenic, two methods, viz,, (i) Co-precipitation technique and (ii) Absorption technique, are the most common. The PHED, Government of West Bengal and other organizations like All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health (AIIH&PH), Calcutta and Bengal College of Engineering, Howrah have also installed arsenic removal plants in the arsenic affected areas of the

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State. Besides, domestic filters have also been developed by these organizations. A programme of Water Quality Monitoring and Surveillance was also launched by RGNDWM by initially setting up State and District level Water Quality Testing laboratories to ensure safe drinking water by the State Governments and generate awareness about water quality among rural masses. 17 district laboratories were sanctioned by RGNDWM for West Bengal, out of which 13 were established. In the remaining 6 districts, the State Government established laboratories from their own sources. One Mobile laboratory was also sanctioned by RGNDWM and delivered to West Bengal Government.

7. Helping State Governments to tackle water-quality problems in the rural areas is one of the objectives of the RGNDWM. Sub-mission programmes were introduced in 1992-93 to tackle water quality and sustainability problems. The funding pattern was 75:25 between Centre and State. Under the Sub-mission programme for control of arsenic, four projects proposed by the State Government were sanctioned during 1994-98 for West Bengal by RGNDWM. The West Bengal Government implemented these projects. The details of four pre-1998 Arsenic control projects sanctioned, were as follows:

Sl N.

Project ProjectSanctionYear

ApprovedCost

GOl's Commit ment

Funds released by GOI

Remarks

1 1st Phase Action Plan (replacement of spot sources in arsenic free aquifers in 6 districts of West Bengal)

94-95 858.33 643.75 643.75

Scheme Completed. Population covered 3.7 lakh

2 Surface Water based Water supply scheme for arsenic affected areas of Malda district

94-95 8848.00 6636.00 6632.82 Scheme completed. Population covered 2.89 lakh

2 Surface Water based Water supply scheme for arsenic affected areas of Malda district

94-95 8848.00 6636.00 6632.82 Scheme completed. Population covered 2.89 lakh

3 Surface Water based Water supply scheme for arsenic affected areas of South-24 Paraganas district

96-97 15353.00 11515 11515 Scheme Completed. Population covered 14.46 lakh

4 2nd Phase Action Plan (Piped water supply schemes and replacement of spot sources in arsenic

97-98 1777.56

1333.17 1326.45 Scheme Completed. Population covered

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free aquifers in West Bengal)

78 lakh

Total : 26836.89 20127.92 20118.02

8. Helping State Governments to tackle water quality problems continues to be one of the objectives of the RGNDWM. With effect from 1.4.1998, full powers have been delegated to the State Governments for sanctioning projects under the sub-mission programmes for tackling water quality problems. The funding pattern between Centre and State is 75:25. 15% of annual funds allotted to State Government under the Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP) are earmarked for tackling water quality problems. Year-wise details of allocation of ARWSP funds during the last 6 years to West Bengal are given below. 15 % of these funds were to be utilized for tackling water quality problems, including Arsenic control.

(Rs, in lakh)

Year-wise ARWSP fund releases to West Bengal Total 1998--99 99-2000 2000-01 2001'02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 6426.91 5606.45 7832.31 8947.63 10115.00 6827.00 5379.00* 45760.30

* Allocation for 2004-2005 is Rs 8527.00 lakh

9. The details of these Post-1998 Sub-mission projects sanctioned by the State are as tabulated below: (Rs. in lakhs)

Sl No.

Project Project Sanction Year

Approved GOI's Cost Commit-ment

Remarks

1 Surface Water based Water supply/scheme for arsenic affected areas of North -24 Paraganas

2000-01 12482.00 9361.50 Ongoing,

2 Ground water Project for Nadia/ Murshidabad districts

2002-03 1176.00 882.00 Ongoing

3 Surface Water based Water supply scheme for arsenic affected areas

2002-03 654.31 490.73

Ongoing

Total : 14312.31 10734.23

10. State Government of West Bengal have also installed 2,338 handpump attached arsenic removal plants in 5 affected districts as per following break-up:

District No. of handpump fitted arsenic removal plants installed as on 31/3/2004

Malda 191

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Murshidabad 1129 Nadia 220 North 24 Paraganas 698 South 24 Paraganas 100 Total 2338 11. As reported by the West Bengal Government, out of the 4973 Arsenic affected habitations confirmed so far, mitigation measures have been taken up in 3404 habitations (68.45%).

12. State Government of West Bengal recently submitted 6 surface water based schemes for in arsenic affected areas at a total outlay of Rs 1166 crore. Government of India supports the efforts of the States by releasing funds under Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme as per the following criterion for inter-State allocation:

Weightage for (a) Rural Population 40 (b) States under DDP, DPAP 35 and special category hill States in terms of rural areas (c) Not Covered /Partially Covered 15 villages (at 2:1 ratio) (d) Quality affected villages 10

Individual rural water supply schemes are planned and implemented by the State Governments themselves and ARWSP funds are not released by the Central Government for specific projects of any State. West Bengal Government has covered all NC/PC habitations in 1999 CAP list, they can utilize higher percentage (%) of ARWSP funds for quality purposes on the basis of 75:25 funding pattern between the Central and State Government.

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ONSLAUGHT OF WATER BORNE DISEASES IN METROPOLITAN AREAS

5506. SHRI VIJAY J. DARDA

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Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware that in ninety-six percent of the metropolitan areas (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, etc.) diseases are water-borne, including cholera and gastroenteritis and vector borne like malaria and dengue; (b) if so, how far Municipal Corporation or similar organizations have developed effective capabilities to deal with these diseases; (c) whether there are any special guidelines in existence to this effect; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): Water-borne diseases spread through contaminated water and transmitted through faeco-oral out. On an average, 8.5 million cases of acute diarrhoeal disease, 3 to 4 thousand cholera cases, 0.1 million viral hepatitis cases and 0.4 million enteric fever cases are reported annually to the Central Bureau of Health Intelligence from all over the country. The cases of epidemiological situation of vector-borne diseases, viz. Dengue and Malaria as per reports received from the State Health Authorities during the last three years is as follows: City Diseases 2002 2003 2004 Delhi Dengue 45 2882 606 Malaria 694 839 958 Kolkata Dengue 0 0 0 Malaria 53951 49379 56359 Mumbai Dengue 135 328 312 Malaria 13542 13522 14758 Chennai Dengue 146 634 571 Malaria 27205 29058 28232 To strengthen surveillance activities and to promote early detection of outbreak and institute appropriate action for prevention & control of epidemic prone diseases including water-borne/vector-borne diseases, National Surveillance Programme for

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Communicable Diseases (NSPCD) and Urban Malaria Scheme (UMS) under Central Sector Health Scheme are being implemented. (c) & (d): Guidelines for prevention and control of water-borne and vector-borne diseases have been developed by the National Institute of Communicable Disease and have been circulated to all Public Health Agencies. *******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



ALARMNING LEVEL OF PESTICIDES IN HOSPITALS

568. SHRI R. KAMARAJ Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the alarming level of pesticides has been detected in leading hospitals of Delhi; (b) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this regard; (c) whether Government had issued any direction to the State Government in this regard; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (d): So far the Central Government Hospitals in Delhi are concerned, no incident of alarming level of pesticides have come to the notice of the Government. *********

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DISPLAYING THE CONTENT OF SOFT DRINKS IN THE BOTTLE

611. SHRI RAJ MOHINDER SINGH MAJITHA RAM JETHMALANI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that his Ministry had taken any specific decision after the orders of the Rajasthan High Court to the effect that every bottle of soft drinks like Coca Cola and Pepsi should display the information that the drink contains pesticides ; (a) if not, the reasons therefor; and (b) if so, the details thereof ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a), (b) & (c): The Hon`ble High Court of Rajasthan has granted two months time to the applicants to ensure compliance of this order. It is however, learnt that the applicants namely, M/s. Coca-Cola India Inc. and M/s. Pepsi Foods Pvt. Ltd. have filed appeals in the Hon’ble Supreme Court against this order. *******




DISPLAYING EXTENT OF PESTICIDES ON LABELS OF FOOD ITEMS

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288. SHRI MOTILAL VORA PREMA CARIAPPA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) the reasons for which Government do not wish to display extent of pesticides on labels of food items by amending the Food Adulteration (Prevention) Rules, 1955 keeping in view the concern for health of the common people; (b) whether Government are aware that pesticides have been found exceeding the prescribed limit in several food products and cold drinks and they affect the public health adversely; and (c) if so, by when Government would make arrangements for display of the extent of pesticides on the labels of food items?

ANSWER MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a)to(c): As per the provisions of the Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Rules, 1955, the names of ingredients used in the product shall be declared on the label in descending order of their composition by weight or volume as the case may be. Similar provisions have been prescribed by Codex Alimentarius Commission which is an international organization for standardization of food products. All the countries in the world follow the practice of declaration of the ingredients on the label. Pesticides are not used as an ingredient in preparation of any food products. Pesticide residues comes in food through use of pesticides upon food crops or during storage of food grains. As stated above, there is no practice in any country or any provisions under CODEX to display the extent of pesticides on the label of food items. There is, therefore, no proposal under consideration for displaying limit of pesticides on the label of food items under PFA Rules, 1955. In order that the contaminants in food products do not exceed the safe limits, the maximum tolerance limits for pesticide residues in food products have been prescribed under Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Rules, 1955. Any violation of the limits prescribed is punishable under law. Studies have been conducted by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare during the years 1988-89, 1993-94 and 2000-01. All these studies reveal that the pesticide residues detected in various foods are within the tolerance limits prescribed under the PFA Rules, 1955, except in some cases where the residues exceeded the prescribed limits. ****

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RULES FOR PREVENTING FOOD ADULTERATION

359. DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY JANARDHANA POOJARY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) the details of the rules and regulations governing prevention of food adulteration in the country; (b) whether it is a fact that the existing laws have proved to be ineffective in preventing food adulteration in the country; (c) whether any comparative study has been undertaken between the Indian laws and those adopted by the developed nations to learn how those countries have succeeded in nearly eliminating food adulteration and the shortcomings of the Indian laws; and (d) if so, the details thereof and if not, whether such a study would be instituted?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (d): Adulteration in food stuffs is checked and regulated in the country under the provisions of Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 and Rules, 1955. The Prevention of Food Adulteration Act has been amended thrice so far, in 1964, 1976 and 1986 to plug the loopholes and make the law more stringent and also to empower the recognised consumer organisations to play active role in the Prevention of Food Adulteration Programme. The Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 and the Rules made there under provide for adequate provisions to check and curb the adulteration and misbranding of food articles. The Act provides for strict penal provisions against the offenders. Standards of quality have been laid down under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955 for more than 270 articles of food. Most of the rules and regulations laid down under these rules are in conformity with the guidelines laid down by the Codex Alimentarious Commission, an international body of the Food and

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Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO) of the United Nations. *********



INFECTIOUS INJECTIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENTS

3463. SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that due to repeated use of injectible medical equipments in almost all the Government and private hospitals/clinics in the country, the increasing incidents of serious infections like AIDS is becoming alarming day by day ; (b) if so, whether this fact has come to light after conducting a survey of several hospitals in Delhi and Mumbai in this regard; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) whether Government would consider to check this practice by assisting the States?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): No, Sir. The Government of India, Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified the Bio-Medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, in July 1998 to ensure safe handling and disposal of bio-medical wastes. In Central Government Hospital in Delhi, the disposable injectible sundries (syringes, needles, cannulas, transfusion sets, tubes, etc.) are disposed off as per the guidelines contained in the above Rules. (b): No such survey report has come to the notice of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. (c) & (d): Do not arise in view of the above. *******

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



DEATHS DUE TO DENGUE IN DELHI

3446. SHRI SANTOSH BAGRODIA HARISH RAWAT R.K. ANAND Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) the number of persons died due to dengue during the last two years in Delhi; (b) whether it is a fact that anti-larval measures to check dengue were taken late by the MCD, NDMC and Delhi Cantonment Board during the year and if so, what action Government propose to take against the delinquent officers; (c) the quantum of money collected from negligent home owners for dengue mosquito breeding; and (d) the measures taken to stop occurring of deaths due to dengue in Delhi?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): During 2003 a total of 35 deaths, during 2004 a total of 3 deaths and during 2005 (upto November 2005) a total of 9 deaths were recorded in Delhi. (b): The implementing agencies for taking anti-larval measures in NCT Delhi are MCD, NDMC and Delhi Cantonment Board. They have been taking anti-larval measures including weekly application of larvicides to check dengue. (c): As per the reports received from NDMC and MCD, a sum of Rs. 4350/- and Rs.46,82,700/- have been collected by NDMC and MCD respectively from negligent home owners for dengue mosquito breeding.

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(d): All the above implementing agencies have been advised to take the following measures to prevent deaths due to dengue: (i) Surveillance of disease and vector mosquito on regular basis. (ii) Clinical management of reported cases in all hospitals in NCT. (iii) Vector control mainly through source reduction, personal protection and Behaviour Change Communication campaign, inter-sectoral convergence for mosquito breeding source reduction and personal protection measures. ********



DEATHS DUE TO DENGUE IN DELHI

3446. SHRI SANTOSH BAGRODIA HARISH RAWAT R.K. ANAND Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) the number of persons died due to dengue during the last two years in Delhi; (b) whether it is a fact that anti-larval measures to check dengue were taken late by the MCD, NDMC and Delhi Cantonment Board during the year and if so, what action Government propose to take against the delinquent officers; (c) the quantum of money collected from negligent home owners for dengue mosquito breeding; and (d) the measures taken to stop occurring of deaths due to dengue in Delhi?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): During 2003 a total of 35 deaths, during 2004 a total of 3 deaths and during 2005 (upto November 2005) a total of 9 deaths were recorded in Delhi. (b): The implementing agencies for taking anti-larval measures in NCT Delhi are MCD, NDMC and Delhi Cantonment Board. They have been taking anti-larval measures including weekly application of larvicides to check dengue. (c): As per the reports received from NDMC and MCD, a sum of Rs. 4350/- and Rs.46,82,700/- have been collected by NDMC and MCD respectively from negligent home owners for dengue mosquito breeding. (d): All the above implementing agencies have been advised to take the following measures to prevent deaths due to dengue: (i) Surveillance of disease and vector mosquito on regular basis. (ii) Clinical management of reported cases in all hospitals in NCT. (iii) Vector control mainly through source reduction, personal protection and Behaviour Change Communication campaign, inter-sectoral convergence for mosquito breeding source reduction and personal protection measures. ********



USE OF COLOURS IN FOOD ITEMS

1121. SHRI C. PERUMAL

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Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the National Institute of Nutrition has found liberal use of a variety of colours in food items which are harmful for health ; (b) if so, the details of the findings; and (c) the action taken to correct the situation?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): The information is being collected and will be laid on the table of House. *********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



HIV INFECTION THROUGH BLOOD BANKS

1885. SHRI N.K. PREMACHANDRAN Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government introduced any safety measures to check the resourced blood to the blood banks of medical colleges against HIV infection; (b) whether any incident of HIV infection to a child at SAT Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram consequent to the blood donation has been brought to the notice of Government and whether Government propose to introduce any stipulation to insist antigen test for blood donors for taking precaution against HIV infection; and (c) whether Government propose to implement any specific programme to eliminate hospital acquired HIV infection and the reaction of Government thereto?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): It is mandatory for all licensed blood banks in the country, including that of medical colleges are required to screen donated blood units for HIV, Hepatitis B & C, Syphilis and Malaria before they are transfused to the patient. State Blood Transfusion Council is regularly monitoring the screening status of HIV and other mandatory infection of all the blood banks in their respective States/UTs. Further in order to ensure strict adherence to norms in the blood banks, the licenses of the blood banks are renewed after due verification of the availability of the requisite infrastructure with the blood banks as prescribed in Drug & Cosmetic Rules. (b): A child was detected to be HIV Positive one year after he received blood transfusion in SAT Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. On cross checking the records at the blood bank, it has been observed that the donors at the time of blood donation were negative for HIV. The Government has not proposed to introduce any stipulation to insist for antigen tests for blood donors. (c): The Government has initiated specific programmes to eliminate hospital acquired HIV infection by various measures such as, Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), Hospital Waste Management, use of sterile needle and syringes and use of disposal gloves, etc. The detailed guidelines of the programme have been published in the ‘Manual for Control of Hospitals Association Infections’ which has been circulated to all the State AIDS Control Societies for implementation. *********



DISEASES DUE TO POLLUTION FROM SLAUGHTER HOUSES

1921. DR. CHHATTRAPAL SINGH LODHA

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Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware that as a result of water and other kind of pollution being spread by legal/illegal slaughter houses in the country, the resident in those areas are being infected with the diseases spreading through polluted water and air and the details of diseases with which these persons are suffering; (b) the details thereof State-wise/Union Territory-wise; (c) the action being taken by Government in this regard and whether any inquiry will be conducted for the same; and (d) whether Government propose to cancel the licences of such slaughter houses in public interest?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): According to ICMR, workers in slaughterhouses are exposed to various infectious diseases such as Brucellosis, Erysipeloid, Leptospirosis, Dermatophytosis and warts. These diseases are transmitted through contact with the infected animals or through the contamination of water. The data in respect of number of people infected by such diseases is not centrally maintained. (c) & (d): State Pollution Control Boards have pursued slaughterhouses to set up requisite pollution control facilities to ensure proper management of waste. Slaughterhouses have also been asked to adopt modern slaughtering operations for good environmental management. ********



LICENCING OF PATHOLOGY LABORATORIES

3437. SHRI JANARDHANA POOJARY

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Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether authorities establishing pathological laboratories require to obtain permission /licence from the concerned Government agencies; (b) if so, the details thereof with number of laboratories that were issued licence during the last three years ; (c) whether it is a fact that Indian laboratories are now extending their pathological services to overseas clients/hospitals by getting the samples tested in the laboratories here and electronically dispatching the reports; (d) if so, the details in this regard; and (e) what safeguards are taken in the disposal of the imported samples to ensure that they do not prove to be health hazards for India?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): Health being a State Subject it is for the State Governments to regulate the establishment of pathological laboratories. (c) to (e): Some of the Indian laboratories either directly or through their authorised importers or service providers have started extending their pathological services to the overseas clients. For this purpose, they are required to submit their applications to the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for seeking necessary permissions. For certain cases involving human biological material, opinion of Indian Council of Medical Research is sought by the Office of the DGFT, which is given by ICMR after due consideration of such cases by a Committee constituted for the purpose. Further, pathological laboratories come under the purview of the Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998 and have to follow these rules for treatment and disposal of all kinds of bio-medical wastes. *********

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DISMAL HEALTH STATUS OF THE TRIBAL COMMUNITIES

379. SHRI K. CHANDRAN PILLAI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the health status of people in the tribal areas remain at the lowest in the country; (b) whether a study ‘Health Status Index’ conducted in Rajasthan revealed the dismal state of health status of the tribal communities in the State; (c) whether Government have evolved any comprehensive scheme for the improvement of the situation; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): Yes Sir. (b): The Ministry of Tribal Affairs had sponsored a study - Health and Malnutrition Study among the PTG of Sahariyas in Rajasthan for re-look at the traditional food habits. The study revealed that over 80 per cent of the Sahariyas are living below poverty line and have a high degree of mal nutrition and morbidity. (c) to (d): The Government has recently launched the National Rural Health Mission with a special emphasis on vulnerable sections of the rural population. The main objective of the NRHM is to provide accessible, affordable, accountable, effective and reliable primary health care especially to the poor and vulnerable sections of the population. It seeks to provide an overarching umbrella to the existing vertical schemes/programmes of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It also aims to address the issue of health in the context of a sector wide approach encompassing sanitation and hygiene, nutrition, safe drinking water as basic determinants of good health. It further seeks to build greater

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ownership for health and family welfare programmes among the community through involvement of Panchayat Raj institutions, NGOs and other stakeholders at national, state, district and sub-district levels. In addition, all Programme Officers have been directed to earmark 8 per cent of their Annual Plan funds to the tribal sub-plan for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes. Specific programmes like the enhanced Malaria Control Project and the Yaws Eradication Programme have been formulated exclusively for the tribal and remote areas. Keeping in view that most of the tribal population is concentrated in far flung areas, the population coverage norms for primary health care infrastructure and some disease control programmes have been relaxed. As supplementing efforts towards improving health status of tribals, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has been implementing a scheme for grant-in-aid to voluntary organisations for welfare of the Scheduled Tribes. Under the scheme, the Ministry gives grant for setting up and running of ten bedded hospital and mobile dispensary for STs. During the year 2004-05, an amount of Rs1,94,12,300 and Rs 3,39,18,800 were released for running ten bedded hospitals and mobile dispensaries respectively.

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TOBACCO INDUCED DISEASES

1180. SHRI JANARDHANA POOJARY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the incidence of tobacco induced diseases, particularly due to cigarettes and beedis are on the increase in the country; (b) if so, the details in this regard for the last five years, year-wise, with funds allocated and spent on campaign against smoking and treatment of the affected people; (c) whether it is a fact that the law banning smoking in public places has failed to yield the desired results; and (d) if so, the action proposed to be taken to make the law more stringent?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): Data relating to incidence of tobacco induced diseases are not centrally maintained. Cancer, respiratory and cardio-vascular diseases are the three main diseases caused due to tobacco use. While funds are allocated to National Cancer Control Programme, Revised National TB Control Programme, Tobacco Free Initiative, etc., no specific funds are earmarked for treatment of patients affected by tobacco use and for campaign against smoking. (c) & (d): The law banning smoking in public places is implemented mainly by the State Government who have been requested to enforce the provisions of the law strictly and put in place necessary mechanisms to prevent smoking in public places. *********



POPULATION SUFFERING FROM VARIOUS DISEASES

1945. DR. MURLI MANOHAR JOSHI RAJ MOHINDER SINGH MAJITHA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state: - (a) whether it is a fact that the number of people suffering from common diseases as well as serious diseases are constantly increasing in the country; (b) if so, Government’s assessment in this regard; (a) what is the percentage of increase in the number of people suffering from both types of the diseases mentioned above during the last five years; and (b) the number of such people during the years 2000-01 and 2004-05?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a) to (d): The information is being collected and will be placed on the Table of the House. ********



UNSAFE INJECTIONS

1923. SHRI ABANI ROY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that more than 60 per cent of injections administered in various hospitals are unsafe according to a World Bank funded study; (b) if so, the complete details thereof; (c) whether the study of Indian National Injection Safety Association has also found that safety of injections in India is poorest at immunisation clinics; and (d) if so, the steps Government have taken in this regard?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): Yes Sir. As per findings of the study, funded by the World Bank and conducted by International Clinical Epidemiology Network (INCLEN), 69 per cent of injections given at Government Hospitals are unsafe. Half of this is due to use of un-sterilised

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syringes and reuse of syringes and other half due to wrong injection practices namely the following:

(a) flushing syringes needle before use (b) wiping the needle (c) touching the needle surface (d) syringe and needle used on more than one patient (e) picking of glass syringe and needle from boiler by hand (f) multi dose vial not wiped clean before drawing (g) injection site not cleaned (h) recapping needle (i) not flushing glass syringe after use before re-sterilisation.

The other findings of the study indicates that immunisation accounts for 17.5 per cent of total injections and 74 per cent of this are unsafe because of predominant use of glass syringes. No study by Indian National Injection Safety Association has come to the notice of the Government of India. (d): The Government of India has decided to use Auto Disable (AD) syringes in place of glass syringes and needles in all immunisation clinics in the country in 2005. AD syringes are pre-sterilised and cannot be re-used. So it will take care of most of the causes of unsafe injections including some due to wrong habits. *********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



WHO’S FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON TOBACCO CONTROL

1171. SHRI B.K. HARIPRASAD Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control will come into force on February 25, 2005 having received a mandatory 40 member-country ratifications; (b) whether India is a signatory to the above convention and if so, whether it proposes to

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make anti-tobacco consumption measures more stringent; and (c) whether India is currently spending more funds on checking tobacco-prone health hazard measures than its revenue generated through central excise duty on tobacco products?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) under the aegis of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has come into force from February 27, 2005. India is a signatory to this Convention and has already translated important provisions of FCTC into its domestic law by legislating ‘The Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003’ in May 2003. The legislation includes total ban on direct and indirect advertisements of all tobacco products; prohibition on sponsorship of sports and cultural events which encourage tobacco use; ban on smoking in public places; ban on sale of tobacco products to minors; ban on sale of cigarettes and tobacco products within a radius of 100 yards of educational institutions; mandatory pictorial depiction of warnings like skull and cross bones and such others for the benefit of illiterate persons; provision of specified health warnings and clear indication of nicotine and tar contents on packets and cartons of all tobacco products. (c): At present, the Government is spending more funds on checking tobacco prone health problems than its revenue generated through central excise duty on tobacco products. In order to reduce avoidable expenditure on tobacco – related diseases, the above legislation has been enacted to discourage tobacco consumption and control diseases and death attributed to tobacco use. *********



ANTI-MALARIA INSECTICIDE NET

406. SHRIMATI SUKHBUNS KAUR

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Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Gas Authority of India Ltd. has lately developed an anti-malaria insecticide net, with Japanese collaboration to effectively tackle the menace of malaria; (b) the salient features of the anti-malaria insecticide and its effectiveness to prevent the menace; and (c) the number of malaria deaths in the country and in the different States during 2002-03, 2003-04 and 2004-05?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): Yes, Sir. Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) is working with M/s Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd, Japan for development of facilities for manufacturing of long lasting insecticide (Pyrethroid) impregnated High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) polymer nets (Long Lasting Insecticide Impregnated Nets, LLIN). The ready made insecticide impregnated HDPE polymer is to be supplied by M/s Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd, Japan. GAIL has already produced few nets based on sample of polymer supplied by the party. (b): There are 3 major groups of insecticides being used by the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme for control of Malaria through Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS): 1. Chlorinated Hydrocarbon Group: Indoor Residual Spraying with DDT 50 per cent WDP (Water Dispersible Powder) had been quite effective in the prevention of malaria menace. Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) with DDT remains effective for a period of 2 to 3 months and hence 2 round of IRS are carried out in different states depending upon the period of malaria transmission season. However, in the areas where the malaria vectors have developed resistance to DDT, it is been replaced with other group of insecticides. 2. Organophosphorous Group: Indoor Residual Spraying with Malathion 25 per cent WDP had been quite effective in the prevention of malaria menace. IRS with Malathion remains effective for a period of 1 to 2 months and hence 3 rounds of IRS are carried in different states depending upon the period of malaria transmission season. However, in the areas where the malaria vectors have developed resistance to Malathion, it is replaced with other group of insecticides. 3. Synthetic Pyrethroid Group: This is a new group of insecticides. There are many

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compounds in this group of insecticides. However, the following insecticides of this group are being used in malaria control programme: i) Deltamethrin 2.5 per cent ii) Cyfluthrin 10 per cent iii) Lambdacyhalothrin 10 per cent iv) Alphacypermethrin 5 per cent Indoor Residual Spraying with any of the above referred Synthetic Pyrethroids is quite effective in the prevention of malaria transmission. IRS with Synthetic Pyrethroids remains effective for a period of 2 to 3 months and hence 2 rounds of IRS are carried to cover states depending upon the period of malaria transmission season. In areas where the malaria vectors have developed resistance to DDT and Malathion, Synthetic Pyrethroids group of insecticides are recommended. (c): The number of malaria deaths in different states since 2002 is given at Annexure-I Annexure-I

MALARIA SITUATION

STATEs/UTs. 2002

2003

2004

2005*

Deaths Deaths Deaths Deaths

Andhra Pradesh 0 3 2 10

Arunachal 0 0 0 0

Assam 72 53 54 83

Bihar 2 1 0 1

Chhattisgarh 3 4 4 2

Goa 15 1 7 2

Gujarat 17 65 89 0

Haryana 0 0 0 0

Himachal Pradesh 0 0 0 0

Jammu & Kashmir 0 0 0 0

Jharkhand 31 13 39 8

Karnataka 33 22 27 7

Kerala 8 7 12 0

Madhya Pradesh 30 22 36 0

Maharashtra 43 85 61 4

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Manipur 9 17 8 2

Meghalaya 41 38 29 19

Mizoram 35 48 72 61

Nagaland 0 0 1 0

Orissa 465 333 283 132

Punjab 0 1 0 0

Rajasthan 11 66 20 0

Sikkim 0 0 3 2

Tamil Nadu 0 0 0 0

Tripura 5 13 16 10

Uttaranchal 0 0 0 0

Uttar Pradesh 0 0 0 0

West Bengal 152 214 180 111

A.N.Islands 1 0 1 0

Chandigarh 0 0 0 0

D & N Haveli 0 0 0 0

Daman & Diu 0 0 0 0

Delhi 0 0 0 0

Lakshadweep 0 0 0 0

Pondicherry 0 0 0 0

All India Total 973 1006 944 464 *Provisional dated 18/11/2005 ************



PESTICIDES IN VEGETABLE AND FRUITS

1162. SHRI PRAMOD MAHAJAN Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether excessive pesticides are found in vegetables and fruits;

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(b) if so, its effects on human bodies; and (c) the manner in which Government propose to meet the alarming situation ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): A survey on presence of pesticide residues in food products including fruits and vegetables conducted by Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare during 2002-03 indicates the presence of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) residue which is well within the Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) of HCH prescribed under the PFA Rules, 1955. No other pesticide such as organophosphorus, carbamates and pyrethroids could be detected in these samples. (c): A Central Sector Scheme in the Ministry of Agriculture for monitoring pesticide residues at national level has been approved this year in order to ascertain prevalence of pesticide residue at farm and market levels to enable the remedial measures to be under taken as required. The Central and State Governments are implementing training programmes to various extension functionaries, dealers and farmers on the safe and judicious use of pesticides.

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CAUSES FOR INCREASE IN DENGUE CASES

3461. SHRI KALRAJ MISHRA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the number of patients suffering from dengue is on the rise for the past three months in National Capital Territory, Delhi;

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(b) if so, the number of cases of dengue reported, so far, alongwith the number of dengue patients in other States; (c) the details of patients who have died of this disease ; and (d) whether it is also a fact that for lack of proper arrangement in hospitals in Delhi, the patients of dengue have died in a large number?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): The number of cases of dengue and deaths reported in National Capital Territory of Delhi for the last three months are given below:- Month Cases Deaths

September 159 1 October 415 4 November 347 1 State-wise distribution of dengue Cases and deaths during 2005 are shown in Annexure. (d): The Government hospitals in Delhi have adequate arrangements for proper management of dengue cases. As there is no cure for dengue, the cases admitted in hospitals are managed symptomatically. Necessary guidelines for management of dengue cases have been provided to the State Governments including Delhi by the Central Government. Annexure DENGUE CASES AND DEATHS RECORDED IN THE COUNTRY DURING THE YEAR 2005 (UPTO DECEMBER 13, 2005) Sl no State Dengue Cases Deaths

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1. Andhra Pradesh 78 2 2. Delhi 1019 9 3. Goa 2 0 4. Gujarat 381 1 5. Haryana 160 1 6. Karnataka 410 12 7. Kerala 983 8 8. Maharashtra 199 9 9. Punjab 251 2 10. Rajasthan 214 1 11. Tamil Nadu 447 5 12. Uttar Pradesh 100 1 13. West Bengal 6286 34

Total 10530 85 *******



FIXING THE LEVEL OF METALS IN AYURVEDIC SIDDHA AND UNANI

MEDICINES

385. SHRI UDAY PRATAP SINGH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government have decided to make it compulsory to fix the quantity of metals in Ayurvedic, Unani and Siddha medicines and display it on drug packets; and (b) if so, the details thereof and by when it would be enforced?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to(b): Government has issued an order on October 14, 2005 in the interest of public health under Section 33 EEB of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 for mandatory testing of heavy metals namely, arsenic, lead, mercury and cadmium for export purposes in respect of every batch of purely herbal Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani drugs by every licencee. Display of ‘HEAVY METALS WITHIN PERMISSIBLE LIMITS’ on the containers will be mandatory w.e.f. 1.1.2006. This is a process of self-certification for export purposes and the A.S.U. drug manufacturer will be held responsible if proper batch-wise testing is not done before self-certification. This process of self-certification would be extended for sale within the country in due course. *******



DENGUE AND MALARIA CASES IN DELHI

374. SHRI LALIT SURI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) the number of dengue and malaria cases, separately, so far reported during 2005 in Delhi and the number of deaths that occurred as a result thereof; (b) how do this figures compare with those of the previous two years i.e., 2003 and 2004; and (c) the reasons for higher cases of dengue and malaria this year and the steps taken/proposed to be taken to improve the situation in this regard?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): Dengue and malaria are the seasonal and epidemic prone diseases. Dengue is caused by virus and transmitted by Aedes mosquito which breeds in man made mosquitogenic condition such as ornamental tanks, flower vases, discarded tins, bottles, tyres, overhead tanks, unused tyres, coolers, etc. particularly during pre- and post-rainy season as the water gets collected in various containers which helps in breeding of Aedes mosquitoes. Reported number of dengue cases and deaths in Delhi during the year 2003 and 2004 are given below:-

Year Cases Deaths

2003 2882 35

2004 606 3 2005 850 9

During the year 2005, up to 16.11.2005, 850 cases and 9 deaths due to dengue were reported as compared to 606 cases and 3 deaths during 2004. In respect of malaria, number of cases reported during current year up to August 2005 is 437 as compared to 269 cases during corresponding period of 2004. The reported number of malaria cases and deaths in Delhi during the year 2003 and 2004 are given below: Year Blood slide

Examination Malaria Cases Deaths

2003 1220248 839 0 2004 1028273 1316 0 2004 127232 269 0 2005 644853 437 0 The increase in the number of malaria in NCT Delhi during 2005 is attributed to screening of large number of fever cases as compared to year 2004 as is evident from the above table. No death due to malaria has been reported since 2003.

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A centrally sponsored National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme is operative throughout the country for prevention and control of malaria, dengue and other vector borne diseases. The Government of India provides antimalaria drugs, insecticides and larvicides and cash assistance for training, IEC activities and for computerised management information system. Technical support and needbased assistance are also provided to the states for investigation and control of outbreaks. The strategies for prevention and control of epidemics includes: 1. Early diagnosis, prompt treatment and appropriate case management. 2. Integrated vector control, epidemic preparedness and early response. 3. Information, education and communication for generating awareness about prevention and control of disease. 4. Capacity building by training of health care workers, NGOs in prevention and control activities. 5. Monitoring and Evaluation including computerised management information system *********



WATER POLLUTION AND CHILD MORTALITY

1145. SHRIMATI N.P. DURGA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that India has the highest mortality rate just better than Pakistan and Bhutan in terms of environmental threats to children’s health, according to the WHO`s classification which has been published in its publication ‘Inheriting the world: Atlas of children health and environment’ ; (b) whether it is also a fact that it is because of the high level contamination of water; and (c) if so, in what manner Government are thinking to overcome this situation ?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): The World Health Organisation`s publication ‘Inheriting the world: Atlas of children health and environment’ examines the effect of various environmental factors on children health. The report also classifies the countries according to mortality rates. According to this classification, Pakistan with child mortality rate of 110 per 1000 live births, Bhutan with child mortality rate of 98 per 1000 live births and India with child mortality rate of 96 per 1000 live births have been classified as high mortality countries. However, 49 out of 192 countries listed in the report have a child mortality rate higher than that of India. (b) & (c): Lack of access to safe drinking water alongwith poor environmental sanitation are important contributors to child mortality due to diarrhoeal diseases. In addition, air pollution is one of the important causes of acute respiratory infections among children, which is another major cause of child mortality. Safe drinking water and improvement in sanitation services are recognised as important interventions in preventing diarrhea. Govt. of India is implementing the Central Rural Sanitation Programme. Under this, the Department of Drinking Water Supply is implementing Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC). Govt. of India has sanctioned TSC projects in 520 districts of the country to improve the sanitation scenario in the villages. The objectives of the TSC programme are to bring about an improvement in the general quality of life in the rural areas, accelerate sanitation coverage, generate felt demand for sanitation facilities through awareness creation and health education. Further, the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) recently launched by the Govt. of India seeks to converge health concerns with determinants of health, sanitation, hygiene, nutrition and safe drinking water. ********




CHINA FOR TIE-UP IN BIO MEDICAL RESEARCH

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2648. SHRI MANOJ BHATTACHARYA C. RAMACHANDRAIAH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether China has evinced keen interest for a tie-up with India in the field of bio-medical research; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the proposed co-operation is contemplated only in the area of traditional medicines or likely to extend to the field of modern medicines also; (d) whether specific proposals for joint research have been received from the Chinese Government, if so, the details thereof; and (e) whether Government are considering similar joint research activity with other countries, if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (e): The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has informed that China has evinced keen interest for a tie-up with India in the field of bio-medical research mainly on stem cell and traditional medicine. The areas under traditional medicine include documentation of medicinal plants and developing systems for regulating trade in this area. Stem cell research and exchange of scientists for capacity building are other potential areas being explored for joint activity. The ICMR have suggested cooperation in the field of indigenous medicine with ASEAN countries. ********

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POLICIES AND AMENDMENTS



NATIONAL ENVIRONMENT POLICY

2093. SHRI RAJKUMAR DHOOT Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that Government has finalised a National Environment Policy 2005; (b) if so, what are its main features; and (c) how does the policy address the problem of ozone layer protection?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) No, Sir. The Government has not yet finalised the National Environment Policy 2005. (b) & (c) Does not arise. *******




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MEETING OF STATE ENVIRONMENT MINISTERS

252. SHRI JESUDASU SEELAM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: - (a) whether two days Meeting of State Environment Ministers held in September, 2004 opposed or rejected the proposed reforms in the procedure for granting environmental clearance to development projects; (b) if so, the details of States, suggestions that Government should form an independent monitoring and evaluation agency to assess compliance of the spirit of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; (c) if so, how many State Governments demanded delegation of powers to them on the projects of national importance; (d) if so, what were the main decisions taken; and (e) how many suggestions have been accepted and implemented?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA)

(a) In the Conference of the State Environment Ministers held at New Delhi in September 2004, the State Governments had by and large supported the need for reforms in environmental clearance process but with the delegation of greater powers to the State Governments for granting environmental clearances. (b) None of the State Governments had requested for the formation of an independent monitoring and evaluation agency to assess the compliance of the spirit of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. However, the Government of West Bengal had underlined the need for establishing an autonomous body in every State to be called the Environment Protection Agency for dealing with all matters pertaining to the grant of environment clearances to the projects. (c) None of the States had demanded delegation of powers to them for granting environment clearances in respect of projects of national importance. (d) The Conference had resolved that the Ministry of Environment and Forests should hold further consultations with all the States before finalising the reforms. (e) The revised environmental clearance procedure has not been finalised. *******

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



NEW DRAFT ENVIRONMENT POLICY

5454. SHRI K.RAMA MOHANA RAO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is fact that Government have released the new draft environment policy; (b) whether it is also a fact that Government have released the policy for comments by various sections of the society; (c) if so, the details of comments received from various sections; (d) by when Government would formally release the policy; (e) whether any time/date has been fixed to discuss the policy in Parliament; and (f) if so, the details thereof?.

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (b) Yes, Sir. (c) Comments received from various stakeholders are largely in the nature of suggestions for strengthening the draft National Environment Policy in areas such as decentralisation, role of women in management of natural resources, access to information, good governance, linkage to other existing policies, sustainable forest management, desert eco-system, small wetlands, watershed management, implementation of the policy, review, etc. (d) The draft National Environment Policy, as revised, is in the process of submission to the Cabinet. The Policy will be formally released after the Cabinet’s approval. (e) No, Sir. However, the draft National Environment Policy was sent to all the Members

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of Parliament in December 2004 for their views. (f) Does not arise. ******



ENVIRONMENT COURTS

3939. SHRI N.K. PREMACHANDRAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether there is any proposal to set up ‘Environment Courts’ in all the States to deal with environmental issues; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether State Governments have been consulted in this regard; and (d) if so, the details thereof and by when these courts are likely to be set up?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. The Law Commission, in it’s 186th Report, has inter alia recommended establishment of separate Ènvironment Courts` at the State level consisting of judicial and scientific experts in the field of environment, for dealing with environmental disputes besides having appellate jurisdiction in respect of appeals under the various Pollution Control Laws. The recommendations of the report are under consideration of the Government. (c) & (d) No Sir. The States have not been consulted at this stage, as the recommendations of the Report are still under consideration of the Central Government. *******

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA




2643. SHRI T.R. ZELIANG DWIJENDRA NATH SHARMAH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government have formulated any National Environment Policy in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the concrete steps Government propose to take for implementation of the said scheme in the national interest?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) Yes, Sir. The Ministry of Environment & Forests has prepared a draft National Environment Policy (NEP). (b) The draft NEP is a response to our national commitment to a clean environment, mandated in the Constitution. It recognizes that maintaining a healthy environment is not the State’s responsibility alone, but also that of every Citizen. The NEP is also intended to help realise sustainable development by mainstreaming environmental concerns in all developmental activities. It briefly describes key environmental challenges currently and prospectively facing the country, the objectives of environment policy, normative principles underlying, policy action, strategic themes for intervention and broad indication of the legislative and institutional development needed to accomplish the strategic themes, and mechanisms for implementation and review. (c) On its finalization, the NEP will be translated into a set of implementable Action Plan(s), with the participation of different stakeholders. *******

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MINES AND MINERALS



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR URANIUM MINING AND

PROCESSING PLANT AT NALGONDA

536. SHRI RAMA MUNI REDDY SIRIGIREDDY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Department of Atomic Energy has submitted a proposal for environmental clearance to its proposed Uranium Mining and processing plant at Nalgonda in Andhra Pradesh; (b) if so, when such proposal was received in his Ministry; and (c) the action that has been contemplated on the proposal so far?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) Yes, Sir. Ministry of Environment and Forests has received a proposal from M/s Uranium Corporation of India Ltd. seeking environmental clearance only for mining of Uranium in Nalgonda District of Andhra Pradesh. (b) The above proposal was received on 08.06.2005. (c) As per procedure, the proposal is awaiting appraisal by the Expert Committee (Mining) constituted by this Ministry. ****

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SAND MINING IN COASTAL AREAS

4704. SHRI K. CHANDRAN PILLAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) Whether it is a fact that the intrusion of Tsunami waves was in bigger scale in the coastal areas of Alleppy district where sand mining is permitted; (b) If so, whether Government is considering appropriate measures for regulating sand mining in the coastal areas; and (c) If so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINSITRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) No, Sir. (b) & (c) Does not arise. ************

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MUNICIPAL WASTE



SOLID WASTE OF SLAUGHTER HOUSES

541. SHRI C. PERUMAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Supreme Court of India has fired the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for its failure to deal with solid wastes of slaughter houses; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the action taken to prevent recurrence of such incidents ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) In the Writ Petition (Civil) No.309 of 2003 Laxmi Narain Modi Versus Union of India & Ors. on Slaughter Houses, the Hon’ble Supreme Court on 12/07/2005 has awarded costs of Rs. 25,000/- for the adjournment sought by the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) counsel. (c) The CPCB would continue to file affidavits and details as called for by the Hon’ble Supreme Court regularly to avoid the necessity for seeking adjournments. ******



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LICENCED AND ILLEGAL SLAUGHTER HOUSES

1104. DR. CHHATTRAPAL SINGH LODHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the number of legal and illegal slaughter houses that are running in the country, State-wise and location-wise; (b) the names of slaughter houses that have installed devices for controlling environmental pollution; (c) whether in spite of installing devices for controlling the environmental pollution, it is being created in other way by these slaughter houses; (d) whether Government are aware of non-use of pollution control devices; and (e) the action Government are taking in this regard?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (e) Information is being collected and would be laid on the Table of the House. *******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION CAUSED BY SLAUGHTER HOUSES

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1105. DR. CHHATTARAPAL SINGH LODHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government are aware of the environmental pollution being caused by slaughter houses located in the districts of Bulandshahar and Aligarh of Uttar Pradesh; (b) the places being polluted and the type of environmental pollution being caused in the districts of Bulandshahar and Aligarh together with the details of slaughter houses causing pollution; (c) whether officers give enquiry report of the above after indulging in corruption while local people are agitating against them and local news papers are also reporting of environmental pollution; and (d) whether Government would get the investigation done by the committee of a central team or of the Members of Parliament in the above districts?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (d): As per information made available by the Uttar Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (UPPCB), there are four slaughter houses in the districts of Bulandshahar and Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh. Of these, two slaughter houses located at Mundakhera Road, Khurja, Bulandshahar and at Makdoomnagar are owned by Nagar Palika, Khurja and Nagar Nigam, Aligarh, respectively. The UPPCB has issued closure orders to them for non-compliance of the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. These two slaughter houses are now closed as informed by the respective local Administration/Nagar Palika. Besides the above, there are two other modem slaughter houses, one at Aligarh and the other at Mundakhera Road, Khurja. The one at Aligarh, namely, M/s Hind Agro (P) Ltd., Aligarh was recently inspected by a team of Officers from the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Central Pollution Control Board and the UP Pollution Control Board on September 15, 2005. M/s Hind Agro (P) Ltd. was found to have provided waste water treatment facility and also a rendering plant. The team has given specific recommendations for improving the waste water treatment plant to ensure that the treated effluents meet the prescribed standards and for improvement in the composting yard. The recommendations of the team have been communicated to the UPPCB. A show cause notice has been issued under Section 33A of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 by the UPPCB to this Unit on account of the treated effluents not meeting the prescribed standards. M/s AL-Ahmed Frozen Food is another newly constructed slaughter house at Mundakhera Road in the Bulandshahar district. This slaughter house has so far not

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been granted consent for trial production under the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 by the UPPCB, as the effluent treatment plant installed at the slaughter house requires improvement. ******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



POLLUTION BY SLAUGHTER HOUSES

1856. DR. CHHATTRAPAL SINGH LODHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the number of legal and illegal slaughter houses which are causing all kind of pollution in the country State-wise, along with pollution caused; (b) whether Government have taken action against such slaughter houses against whom the complaints have been received, if so, the details thereof; (c) the steps taken to ensure supply of clean drinking water is such areas; (d) whether Government are proposing to cancel the licenses of such polluting slaughter houses; (e) whether Government propose to constitute a committee of MPs and local representatives to conduct the inquiry in this regard; and (f) whether it is also a fact that working group of Reserve Bank has suggested to make a `Risk Fund` in this regard;

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (f): The information is being collected and would be laid on the Table of the House. ******

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WASTE TREATMENT AND DISPOSABLE FACILITIES

1875. SHRIMATI N.P. DURGA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the details of cities which have set up suitable waste treatment and disposable facilities under the Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000; (b) whether it is a fact that India produces 42 million tonnes of urban solid waste annually; and (c) what measures Government are taking in coordination with the States and local municipalities to maintain the urban waste to the minimum level?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a): As per the information provided by the Central Pollution Control Board, Vijayawada, Thirttmala and Vizianagaram in Andhra Pradesh, Kammp in Assam, Dhamtari, Jagadalpur, Rajnandgaon, Raipur, Korba, Bhilai, Durg and Raigard in Chhisttisgarh, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Junagarh in Gujarat, Shimla, Solan, Una, Sirmour, Bilaspur, Dharamshala, Kangra, Hamirpur, Kullu and Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore in Kamataka, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Adoor, Atingal, Thirussur, Chalakundy and Changanasery in Kerala, Indore, Bhopal and Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, Nasik, Akola, Mumbai, Miraj-Kuped, Pimri-Chinchawad, Pune, Kolhapur, Barsi, Icholkaranji, Melegaon, Dhule, Wharda, Virar, Bhiwandi, Nizampur, Ambarnath and Aurangabad in Maharastra, Shillong and Tura in Meghalaya, Baliapada, Puri and Paradeep in Orissa, Jalandhar in Punjab, Pondicherry, Jaipur in Rajasthan, Gangtok in Sikkim, Nagarkoil and Tirupur in Tamil Nadu and Kolkata in West Bengal have set up composting plants. Hyderabad, Vijayawada and Guntur in Andhra Pradesh and Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh have set up waste to energy plants. Surat in Gujarat, Karwarputtur in Karnataka, Nasik and Pune in Maharastra have set up landfills.

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(b):As per the information provided by the Ministry of Urban Development, India produces around 42.0 million tons of municipal solid waste annually and 1.14 lakh tons of waste everyday. (c) Following are some of the measures taken for solid waste management including waste minimisation:-

• The Ministry of Urban Development facilitates and provides technical assistance to Urban Local Bodies (ULB) for management of municipal solid waste (MSW) in a scientific and hygienic manner and has published a Manual on `Municipal Solid Waste Management` which provides detailed guidelines for planning, designing, operating and maintaining solid waste collection, storage, transportation, treatment and disposal systems including methods of waste minimisation. They have also circulated guidelines to the State Governments for using the Twelfth Finance Commission grants for management of municipal solid waste in a scientific and hygienic manner.

• The Central Twelfth Finance Commission has devolved Rs.2,500 crores to

ULBs through State Governments for developing appropriate segregation, collection, storage, transportation, treatment and disposal system in a time bound manner in urban areas (from the year 2005 to 2010 A.D).The Central Pollution Control Board organises training programs and has published reports for providing technical support to local bodies for the management of the municipal solid waste.

• The Ministry of Environment and the Central Pollution Control Board have

funded projects for the setting up model demonstrating facilities for the management of municipal solid waste as per the Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000 on cost sharing basis.

*******

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NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY RESOURCES

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES


FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS FOR POWER GENERATION FROM WASTE

1843. SHRI T.T.V. DHINAKARAN Will the Minister of NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) what is the estimated quantum of production of power from waste as of now, State-wise; (b) the details of financial assistance/grants provided by the Government for the generation of power from waste under the National Programme; and (c) the steps taken to popularise this scheme for better implementation?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SHRI VILAS MUTTEMWAR) (a): Projects for energy recovery from urban and industrial wastes with an aggregate capacity of 45.33 MW have so far been installed in the country. State-wise break-up is given in Annexure-I. (b): Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources is promoting energy recovery from wastes through separate programmes for urban and industrial wastes. Provisions for financial assistance under these programmes, subject to eligibility and other terms and conditions are given in Annexure-II. (c): Awareness is being created through organisation of workshops, seminars and training courses besides dissemination of information through a quarterly newsletter and information brochures. A brain-storming session for all stakeholders was organised recently. Financial support is also provided for development of projects and various awareness creation activities.

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ANNEXURE-I State-wise break-up of installed capacity of Waste-to-Energy projects Sl. No. State Installed capacity of Waste-to-Energy projects (in MW) 1 Andhra Pradesh 23.70 2 Gujarat 2.95 3 Karnataka 1.00 4 Maharashtra 1.90 5 Madhya Pradesh 2.725 6 Orissa 0.025 7 Punjab 1.75 8 Tamil Nadu 3.28 9 Uttar Pradesh 8.00 Total 45.33 ANNEXURE-II Provisions for financial assistance for projects under Accelerated Programmes for Energy Recovery from Urban and Industrial Wastes I. Energy Recovery from Urban Wastes 1. Fast track projects based on combustion of RDF produced from Municipal solid waste (MSW): Upto Rs. 1.5 crore/MW 2. Projects based on biomethanation of MSW: Upto Rs. 2 crore/MW 3. Demonstration projects based on gasification/pyrolysis and plasma arc technologies for MSW: Upto Rs. 3 crore/MW 4. Projects for generation of power from biogas being produced at Sewage Treatment Plants: Upto Rs. 2 crore/MW 5. Projects based on biomethanation technology for other urban wastes: Upto Rs. 3 crore/MW II. Energy Recovery from Industrial Wastes - Wastes/Technologies Capital Subsidy 1. Industrial waste to Biogas

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i) Biomethanation of low energy density and difficult industrial wastes: Rs. 1.0 crore/MWeq. ii) Biomethanation of other industrial wastes. : Rs. 0.50 crore/MWeq. 2. Power Generation from Biogas: Rs. 0.80-1.00 crore/MW 3. Power Generation from Solid Industrial Waste: Rs. 0.80 crore/MW ************

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NUCLEAR WASTE

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF ATOMIC ENERGY


DISPOSAL OF RADIOACTIVE WASTES

1700. SHRI KRIPAL PARMAR B.J. PANDA Will the Minister of ATOMIC ENERGY be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that management and disposal of long-life radioactive wastes, has been a technical and political problem the world over; (b) whether it is a fact that Energy Research Group of Reliance Industries in their report has recommended certain solutions for safe storage of nuclear waste; and (c) if so, the details thereof with action plan of Government to address the issue?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER`S OFFICE (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN): (a): The management and disposal of long life radioactive wastes has been an important issue world over. Safe technological solutions do exist and several countries have taken steps in this direction. Disposal of such waste in deep geological formations is an accepted option. Many countries including India have similar approach. International programmes supported by agencies like International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on public awareness have been going on to educate the public and mitigate their apprehensions. (b): The Energy Research Group of Reliance Industries Ltd. have prepared a review report which briefly covers aspects of radioactive waste disposal. The report concludes that there is an international consensus on disposal of long-lived radioactive waste in deep geological formations on land. (c): The work on development of process and technology for management of radioactive

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waste was started by the Department of Atomic Energy about four decades ago along with the development of other components of Indian Nuclear Energy Programme. The following three-step strategy has been adopted in India for the management of long lived radioactive waste, which comprises of: - (i) conversion of radioactive waste into stable, inert, solid waste form such as borosilicate glass, (ii) interim storage for a period of 30-50 years, and (iii) final disposal in deep underground geological repository in the long term. The Indian programmes in the area of radioactive waste management for long-lived waste is fully geared up to meet the country’s needs. *********



DUMPING OF THE NUCLEAR WASTE

306. SHRI BALAVANT ALIAS BAL APTE RUDRA NARAYAN PANY Will the Minister of ATOMIC ENERGY be pleased to state:- (a) whether all the countries are maintaining secrecy in dumping the nuclear waste in their respective countries; (b) if so, whether India is also maintaining secrecy; (c) if so, the reasons therefor; and (d) if not, whether the waste is being dumped taking into account the safest possible location in the country ?

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ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER`S OFFICE (SHRI PRITHVlRAJ CHAVAN) (a): Yes, Sir. Wherever strategic connotations are involved. (b): Yes, Sir. In respect of strategic facilities. (c): Some data on nuclear waste can be used to make quantitative estimates about strategic operations. (d): Disposal of low and intermediate level waste can be carried out only after proper treatment and conditioning meeting the prescribed limits specified by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board. High-level waste is stored in engineered facilities and is currently not disposed. **********

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PESTICIDES



AVAILABILITY OF PESTICIDES

1869. SHRI KRIPAL PARMAR Will the Minister of CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS be pleased to state:- (a) Whether it is a fact that due to increase in prices of pesticides after enforcement of product patent in place of process patent under the Trade Related Intellectual Property Right, the farmers will be adversely affected; (b) if so, the efforts made by Government to ensure easy and cheaper availability of the said pesticides to the farmers; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS & MINSITER OF STEEL (SHRI RAM VILAS PASWAN) (a) to (c): Majority of the pesticides in the Indian market are already off-patent and their availability would not get affected. There is no control of the Government on production and pricing of pesticides. ***********

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EXCESSIVE USE OF CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS AND PESTICIDES

3371. SHRIMATI VANGA GEETHA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that many problems cropped up after the introduction of the Green Revolution, primarily due to intense use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, as per the country’s reputed credit rating agency in its recent study called ‘Insecticides/Pesticides – 2005’; (b) if so, the reaction of Government thereto; (c) whether it is also a fact that the higher dose of pesticides coupled with repeated uses increased the production cost of cotton cultivation manifold; (d) if so, the comments of Government thereon; and (e) the steps taken by Government to set the situation conducive to farmers?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) & (b): The injudicious and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides can result in harmful effect on human and animal health and the environment. If pesticides and fertilizers are used as per actual requirements and guidelines contained on their labels and leaflets, they do not cause any damage to human beings, animals or the environment. Government is, therefore, imparting training to the farmers on the safe use of pesticides and the balanced and optimum use of fertilizers. (c): Yes, Sir. The injudicious and indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides may result in development of resistance in insect pests as a result of which insects are not killed by application of the recommended doses of pesticides and farmers have to repeat the pesticide application leading to increased cost of crop production. (d) & (e): Government has adopted Integrated Pest Management (IPM), encompassing cultural, mechanical and biological methods and need based use of chemical pesticides, as the cardinal principle and main plank of plant protection in the country. Central

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Integrated Pest Management Centres are involved in the organization of Farmers’ Field Schools in order to impart training to the farmers in IPM. *********



FUND ALLOCATION FOR ESTABLISHING PESTICIDES RESIDUAL

TRAINING LABORATORY IN JAIPUR

3369. SHRI LALIT KISHORE CHATURVEDI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government would sanction required funds for establishment of pesticides residual training laboratory at Durgapur in Jaipur in the year 2005-06; and (b) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) & (b): The Government of Rajasthan may use the funds provided under the Macro Management Scheme for setting up a pesticide residues testing laboratory. **************



CHECKING PRODUCTION AND SALE OF SUB-STANDARD PESTICIDES

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307. SHRI MOTILAL VORA PREMA CARIAPPA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) the total consumption of pesticides in the country and the total number of pesticide producing companies in the country; (b) whether it is a fact that most of the companies are providing sub-standard pesticides to the farmers as a result of which farmers suffer the loss from their crops as well as the financial loss; (c) if so, the number of companies which have no laboratories; and (d) the steps taken by Government to check the production and sale of sub-standard pesticides?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a): Approximately, 40,000 metric tonnes of technical grade pesticides were consumed in the country in 2004-05. The Registration Committee, constituted under Section 5 of the Insecticides Act, 1968, has granted more than 50,000 Certificates of Registration. The Licensing Authorities in the State Governments issue licenses for manufacture of pesticides on the basis of such Certificates of Registration. (b): No, Sir. (c): Does not arise. (d): Government have enacted the Insecticides Act, 1968 to regulate, inter-alia, the manufacture and sale of insecticides. The Registration Committee, constituted under Section 5 of the Insecticides Act, registers pesticides only after being satisfied of their efficacy. Quality assurance of pesticides is ensured through regular withdrawal and analysis of pesticide samples through a network of Insecticides Inspectors, Insecticides Analysts and Pesticides Testing Laboratories. The Act provides adequate penal provisions for punishing the formulators, manufacturers and sellers of sub-standard pesticides. **********

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WATER RESOURCES



CONFERENCE OF STATE ENVIRONMENT MINISTERS

5480. PROF. ALKA BALRAM KSHATRIYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Union Environment Ministry have suggested public-private-partnership in implementing national river and lake conservation programmes and setting up of a mechanism to monitor them; (b) if so, whether this question was discussed during Conference of State Environment Ministers held in New Delhi in last September; (c) if so, what were the other proposals made and discussed in the conference and whether any suggestions have been recommended in the conference; and (d) the details thereof and by what time they are likely to be implemented?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (d) Implementation of National River and Lake Conservation Programmes through public-private-partnership was one of the proposals discussed during the Conference of State Environment Ministers held in New Delhi in September 2004. The other proposals made and discussed during the Conference are as follows: 1.Creation of adequate urban infrastructure to ensure that untreated sewage is not discharged into rivers and lakes, is primarily the responsibility of urban local bodies/States.

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2.Due to paucity of resources, urgent action is required to be taken by States to raise additional resources for capital expenditure for urban infrastructure. 3.Development authorities need to consider building into external developmental costs, cost of collection of sewage, its conveyance, treatment, etc. wherever new urban centres are developed and such costs should be built into the price of developed land. 4.State may consider exploring other means for raising resources for capital expenditure such as surcharge on property tax, stamp duty, etc. 5.Urban local bodies/State Governments need to consider innovative ways for raising revenue for meeting the operation and maintenance costs by adopting measures such as,

• Levying user charges • Sale of sludge • Generation of power from bio-gas in sewage treatment plants • Creation of facilities for tourism

6. For monitoring of schemes for their timely completion, States were required to convene Monitoring Committee meetings on regular basis. 7. Public participation and awareness programmes to generate awareness among the public for keeping water bodies clean are to be conducted simultaneously during implementation. In order to address the above mentioned concerns, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the concerned States and local bodies is envisaged.

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NATIONAL RIVER CONSERVATION PLAN

556. SHRI RAJKUMAR DHOOT Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that action plan under National River Conservation Plan is implemented by National River Conservation Directorate of his Ministry;

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(b) if so, the details of action taken to improve the water quality of rivers during last three years and the amount spent on each work; (c) the action plan to be taken during 2005-06 and proposed action plan to be taken during 2006-07; and (d) whether the cost of work is borne by the Central Government or shared by State Government ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. Under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP), various pollution abatement works are undertaken for improving the quality of water in major rivers, such as Interception and Diversion (I&D) of Sewage, setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants (STP), Low Cost Sanitation (LCS), River Front Development (RFD), setting up of Crematoria, etc. This Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) is under implementation in 158 towns along polluted stretches of 32 rivers spread over 19 States at an approved cost of Rs. 4704 crore. During the last three years, Detailed Project Reports for 202 projects worth Rs.1459 crore were sanctioned - 20 projects for STP, 45 projects for I&D and 149 other projects were completed. Sewage treatment capacity of 695 million litres per day (mld) has been created and an expenditure of Rs.779.54 crore has been incurred by Government of India for completion of the projects under the Plan during this period. (c) & (d) Sewage Treatment Capacity of 1588 mld has been targeted for creation in the X Five Year Plan. Out of 1588 mld, 695 mld capacity has been created in the first three years of X Plan. During 2005-06, action plan for creation of a total of 564.43 million litres per day (mld) of Sewage Treatment capacity has been drawn. Similarly, during 2006-07, the balance of 328.57 mld of treatment capacity is proposed to be created. The cost of sharing of the works under NRCP between Central and State Government is in the ratio of 70:30. ********



POLLUTION IN YAMUNA RIVER

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3920. DR. MURLI MANOHAR JOSHI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD LALIT SURI EKANATH K. THAKUR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the water of the river Yamuna beyond Delhi is not fit for human beings for any purpose; (b) if so, the facts in this regard; (c) whether it is also a fact that a number of projects were drawn up for the purification of its water during the last decade; (d) if so, the details thereof and the amount spent to clean Yamuna river so far, particularly in Delhi; and (e) the action taken by the Government for cleansing its water in future?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. The water of river Yamuna beyond Delhi i.e. between Wazirabad and Okhla barrage is polluted mainly due to discharge of untreated/partially treated sewage and industrial waste into river Yamuna through open drains. As per water quality data of the Delhi stretch of river Yamuna observed during last year, the average Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) in this stretch is found to vary between 2.6 to 27.8 milligram per litre and the average Dissolved Oxygen (DO) between zero to 7.9 milligram per litre as against the desired values of 3.0 milligram per litre (maximum) of BOD and 4.0 milligram per litre (minimum) of DO. (c) & (d) The Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase-I was started by this Ministry in April, 1993 with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) funding and completed in February 2003. Total expenditure incurred on the project was Rs.668 crore including Rs.180 crore for Delhi. Under this Plan, a treatment capacity of 30 million litre per day was created in Delhi, besides, 960 toilet complexes were constructed in its various locations. The JBIC has further committed financial assistance for Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase-II, for which a loan agreement has been signed in March 2003 with the project approved for three States of Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh at an estimated cost of Rs. 624 crore, out of which, the cost of works to be implemented for Delhi

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amounts to Rs. 387 crore. The YAP Phase-II project is scheduled for completion by September 2008 with the following major items of works to be implemented in Delhi under the project: - Rehabilitation of trunk sewers (30.82 kms.)

- Sewage Treatment Plants (135 mid new and 324 mid rehabilitation) - Preparation of detailed Project Reports for projects to be taken up under future

YAP Phase-III In addition to the Yamuna Action Plan, the Government of NCT of Delhi out of their State Plan funds has also taken up large scale sewerage and sewage treatment works with the provision of an amount of Rs. 630 crore for the purpose during the IX Plan and Rs. 1862 crore in the X Plan. (e) The major item of works proposed to be implemented under the Yamuna Action Plan and by the Government of NCT of Delhi out of their resources for bringing the river water quality to the desired class in the Delhi stretch of Yamuna include the following:

(i) Rehabilitation/installation of additional sewage treatment capacity of about 580 mid; (ii) Rehabilitation of full length of about 91 kms. of trunk sewers; (iii) Provision of sewerage facilities in all the unauthorised resettlement colonies and urban villages; (iv) Replacement of all undersized sewers by 250 mm dia sewers; (v) Use of treated sewage for horticulture/agriculture; (vi) Commissioning of 15 CETPs; (vii) Shifting of slums located on the banks of river and major drains; (viii) Maintenance of minimum flow of water in the river. A High Powered Committee under the directions of the Apex Court has also prepared an Integrated Action Plan for cleaning of River Yamuna in Delhi. **********

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FORECASTING OF POLLUTION LEVELS BY GROUP OF CONSULTANTS

4707. SHRI K. RAMA MOHANA RAO RAMA MUNI REDDY SIRIGIREDDY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that some group of consultants specialising in forecasting pollution levels for cities across the world now want to do the same in India;

(b) if so, Government’s comments thereon; (c) the effect of such forecasting; (d) whether Government propose to involve itself in this; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA ) (a) to (c): A team of consultants from Japan International Co-operation Agency has provided technical assistance for development of study relating to ‘Water Quality Management Plan for Ganga’ with focus along stretches of four towns namely Kanpur, Lucknow, Allahabad and Varanasi. The study envisages estimation of sewage generation for various years up to 2030 and the river pollution problem scenario in four towns. Source apportionment studies to forecast air pollution generated from various sources in identified major towns have also been initiated through consultants. (d) & (e ) All the stake holders are participating in the above referred activities. *****

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POLLUTION IN YAMUNA

5473. SHRI DATTA MEGHE UDAY PRATAP SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Supreme Court has expressed its dissatisfaction over the progress made regarding the programmes for controlling pollution in river Yamuna and its cleaning; and (b) if so, the amount spent for this purpose so far and the efforts being made to implement this work plan in future?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) Hon`ble Supreme Court during recent hearing on 12.04.2005 under WP(C) No. 725 of 1994 in the matter of news item published in Hindustan Times - Ànd quiet flows the maily Yamuna`, has observed about the non-performance of the authorities and its functionaries for provision of clean water in river Yamuna and has issued directions to the Union Ministry of Urban Development to examine the matter giving reasons for non-achievement of targets and for setting up the minimum time to be taken to ensure clean water of class `C` category in river Yamuna. (b) Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase-I was started by this Ministry in April, 1993 in the three States of U.P., Delhi & Haryana with Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) funding and was completed in February 2003. The total expenditure incurred in the project is Rs. 676.19 crore. JBIC has also committed financial assistance for YAP Phase-II for which a loan agreement was signed in March 2003. The project was approved for the three States of Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh at an estimated cost of Rs. 624 crore in July 2003. The completion of the project is scheduled for September 2008. The major item of works to be implemented under YAP Phase-II are: - Rehabilitation of trunk sewers (30.82 kms.) and works of Sewage Treatment Plants (135 mid new and 324 mid rehabilitation) in Delhi. - Construction of Sewage Treatment Plant (38 mid) and Rehabilitation of Sewer Lines/Rising Mains (85.7 Kms.) in UP.

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- Rehabilitation of Sewer Lines (73 Kms.) and improvements in efficiencies of existing Sewage Treatment Plants in Haryana.

Preparation of Detailed Project Reports for projects to be taken up under future YAP Phase-III. In addition to the Yamuna Action Plan of the Ministry of Environment & Forests, the Government of NCT of Delhi has also taken up large scale sewerage and sewage treatment works out of its own plan funds - an amount of Rs. 630 crore was provided during the IX Plan for this purpose, whereas an amount of Rs. 1862 crore has been provided in the X Plan. In addition to the works planned for implementation under YAP Phase-II, the remaining item of works are to be implemented by Government of NCT of Delhi through their own resources including the proposed works under YAP Phase-III project with JBIC funding.

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NATIONAL RIVER CONSERVATION PLAN

5481. SHRI K.B. KRISHNA MURTHY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Karnataka Government is implementing National River Conservation Plan; (b) if so, the towns in Krishna and Cauvery basins which have been selected for this purpose; (c) the estimated cost for taking up core and non-core works to prevent pollution of river water; (d) whether Karnataka Government have sent any proposal for extending this programme to more towns; (e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) the amount released during 2004-05 under this programme to Karnataka?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) Yes Sir. (b) Under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP), nine towns from Karnataka have been included. Of these, four towns namely - Bhadravathi, Davangere, Harihara and Shimoga are situated in the Krishna river basin and five towns namely - K.R.Nagar, Kollegal, Nanjangud, Sri Rangapatna and Bangalore are situated in the Cauvery river basin. (c) The estimated cost for taking up core and non-core works in respect of these nine towns is Rs. 71.99 crore. (d) and (e) Yes, Sir. The Government of Kamataka has submitted schemes for the following 11 towns over and above those already sanctioned under the NRCP and sought financial assistance: S.No. Town River Estimated cost (Rs. crore) 1. Bagalkot Krishna/ Ghataprabha 29.12 2. Maddur Shimsha 6.63 3. Gokak Ghataprabha 14.50 4. Baillahongol Malaprabha 10.21 5. Shahbad Gulbarga 14.82 6. Hospet Tungabhadra 21.45 7 Gangawati Tungabhadra 21.00 8. Kanakpura Arhavathi 10.61 9. Yadgir Bhima 17.60 10. Dandeli Kali 10.67 11. Siraguppa Tungabhadra 8.96 TOTAL 165.57

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Due to funds constraints in the X Plan, these proposals could not be considered and the State Government of Karnataka had been informed accordingly. (f) A sum of Rs. 13.68 crore was released under this programme to Kamataka during the year 2004-2005. **********




DRYING OF LAKES OF UDAIPUR

153. DR. NARAYAN SINGH MANAKLAO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: - (a) whether Government is aware that lakes in the Lake city of Udaipur in Rajasthan have become dry over the years; (b) if so, the reasons there for; (c) whether any scientific study has been conducted in this regard; (d) if so, the details of findings and if not, the reasons there for; and (e) the steps undertaken or being undertaken to recharge these lakes?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) to (e) As per a study taken up by the State Government, lakes in the city of Udaipur are drying due to non-generation of sufficient runoff on account of light rains, low and non-continuous rainfall in the area. In this connection, a proposal has been framed by the State Government to augment water supply to these lakes.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



PANEL FOR COMPREHENSIVE REPORT ON YAMUNA

1129. SHRIMATI JAYA BACHCHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government is aware that Delhi Government has constituted a panel for preparing a comprehensive report on Yamuna; and (b) if so, the details in this regard?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) A committee had been constituted under the Chairmanship of the Union Secretary (Urban Development), Government of India, comprising representatives of the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India, Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi, Delhi Development Authority, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, New Delhi Municipal Corporation, Delhi Cantonment Board, Delhi State Industrial Development Corporation and Government of Uttar Pradesh for preparation of an integrated action plan for cleaning of river Yamuna. The action plan has already been drawn up based on the inputs provided by all the agencies concerned to address various contributory factors leading to the pollution of Yamuna. The action plan includes augmentation in the capacity of sewage treatment plants, rehabilitation of trunk sewers, management of waste water in the Najafgarh drain, Shahdara drain and other drains, laying of sewer lines in the unsewered areas of Delhi, resettlement/clearance of slum clusters on the Yamuna river bank/bed, treatment of industrial effluents, utilisation of treated effluent and removal of coliform at sewage treatment plants.

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REPORT ON DRYING WATER LANDS

1897. SHRIMATI N.P. DURGA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that according to the Report, Inland Water Lands of India-Conservation Priorities by Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, the water lands have been drying in 14 States of the country; (b) if so, the details of the report; (c) whether it is also a fact that the Report recommended for having a national policy on this; (d) if so, the details there on; and (e) the details of wet lands in the country as on January 1, 1980 and as on January 1, 2005 ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) The Report entitled ‘Inland Water Lands of India-Conservation Priorities’ by Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology & Natural History (SACON) presents information about wetlands of the size of 2 hectare and above in 72 districts located in 10 States. Wetlands in 33 districts in the studied category are reported to have undergone spatial reduction. However, there is no corroborative evidence of these findings. (c) & (d) The SACON’s report recommends formulation of National Policy on Wetlands. Some of the suggestions made there on relate to creation of National Wetland Authority, National Wetlands Biodiversity Register, prioritisation of wetlands and capacity building in management planning of wetlands.

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(e) The details of wetlands with reference to time frames of January 1, 1980 and January 1, 2005 are not available in the absence of any specific study in this regard. *******



PLAN TO REVIEW EIA REPORT

1132. SHRI S.P.M. SYED KHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government have any plan to review the Environmental Impact Assessment Reports prepared for Sethusamudram Shipping Channel Project in the wake of the Tsunami disaster in Indian Ocean; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, the reasons there for?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) No, Sir. (b) Does not arise. (c) As per the information received from M/s Tuticorin Port Trust, the implementing agency, the hydrodynamic modeling studies, carried out recently, have confirmed the earlier findings that increase in magnitude of the sea-current in the post-channel era will be only along the channel in Adam’s Bridge. There will be no change in current status alongside the channel. The increase in current magnitude will be absorbed immediately after exiting from the channel caused by tsunami wave energy parallel to the Indian and Sri Lankan coasts, diverting the wave energy from the coasts. Reorientation of the channel alignment may not be feasible economically, socially and environmentally. ********

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



MAJOR RIVERS CHOKED WITH INDUSTRIAL EFFLUENTS

284. SHRI JANARDHANA POOJARY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether a number of major rivers and their tributaries are choking with industrial effluents and other pollutants; (b) if so, what are the details in this regard and the programmes initiated by Government to clean the rivers indicating the amount spent thereon during the last three years; (c) whether it is a fact that heavy discharge of sewage water in the Yamuna River is creating havoc with the aquatic life in the river and defeating the River Conservation Plan; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the corrective steps taken in this regard?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A.RAJA) (a) to (d) 71 river stretches are polluted inter-alia due to discharge of domestic and industrial effluents. Steps taken by the Government with regard to pollution from industrial and other sources include notifying industry specific effluent standards, promoting setting up of common effluent treatment plants and environmental surveillance by the Central Pollution Control Board, State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Committees, besides improving the quality of water in major rivers through the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). Under the NRCP, pollution abatement works are undertaken including diversion and interception of sewage, installation of sewerage treatment plants, etc. A sewage treatment capacity of 865 mld under this programme launched in 1985 under Ganga Action Plan (Phase-I) has been created and subsequent to that, another 1421 mld capacity sewage treatment facility was created at the end of the last financial year. The amount spent works out to Rs.779.55 crores during the last three financial years under this programme. With its launching over the river Ganga, the quality of water in the river has shown improvement. Similarly, in the river Yamuna, the water quality has shown improvement except for a few stretches.

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2. Monitoring of water quality in the Yamuna has shown that in the lean season (March-June) during the year 2004, the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) in the stretch of the river between Wazirabad and Okhla barrage in Delhi has been as high as 28 mg/l and Dissolved Oxygen (DO) has been zero. This is not supportive of aquatic life. This is partly due to lack of fresh water in the river downstream of Wazirabad barrage. River conservation programme in the form of Yamuna Action Plan-I as part of the NRCP was also initially taken up on the river Yamuna which is now followed by Yamuna Action Plan, Phase-II (YAP-II). Under YAP-II, works of commissioning/rehabilitation of Sewage Treatment Plants of 135 mld / 324 mld capacity and rehabilitation of trunk sewers of 30.82 kms., are proposed to be undertaken. To tackle the pollution in the river in an integrated manner, the Ministry of Urban Development have also prepared an Integrated Action Plan to be implemented by different agencies of the Central Government and the State Government of the NCT of Delhi, which includes components under YAP-II. ******



ACTIVE RIVER CONSERVATION POLICY

2094. SHRI S.M. LALJAN BASHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the reasons for the lack of enthusiasm on the part of Government for having an active river conservation policy; (b) the details for this reluctance; (c) whether it is a fact that representation from NGOs and others are un-heeded by Government; and (d) what steps will be taken to activate policies and schemes for effective river conservation?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b) The National River Conservation Directorate under the Ministry of Environment & Forests is the executing agency for implementation of projects of conservation of rivers across the country. Under the programme of National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) being implemented by the Ministry, the water quality of the rivers is envisaged to be improved by implementing the following major works of pollution abatement: i) Interception and Diversion (I&D) ii) Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) iii) Low Cost Sanitation (LCS) iv) Crematoria (CRE) v) River Front Development (RFD) vi) Public Participation & Awareness (PP&A) (c) Does not arise. (d) The policy measures to improve the water quality of rivers have been laid down by a high level River Conservation Authority, namely, National River Conservation Authority, which are being followed both at Central Government and State Government levels. With the launching of the works of pollution abatement in Ganga in the year 1985 in the beginning, the NRCP now covers pollution abatement works in 32 rivers, spread over 158 towns and 19 States. *******



CLEANSING OF YAMUNA

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1114. SHRI MOTILAL VORA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Planning Commission is of the view that the river Yamuna cannot be cleaned like the Thames; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; (c) the percentage of Yamuna cleaned, so far; and (d) the action being taken by Government to clean the Yamuna completely?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAYAN MEENA) (a) No Sir. (b) Does not arise. (c) & (d) The Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase-I was started in April, 1993 in the three States of U.P., Delhi and Haryana with funding support from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and was completed in February 2003. A total of 255 schemes of pollution abatement of the river have been completed and a sewage treatment capacity of 74 lmld was created under this phase. The second phase of the project under YAP Phase-II with the JBIC assistance has commenced in the States of Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh in December 2004. The major item of works to be implemented under this phase are:

• Rehabilitation of trunk sewers (30.82 kms.) and works of Sewage Treatment Plants (135 mid new and 324 mid rehabilitation) in Delhi.

` • Construction of Sewage Treatment Plant (38 mid) and Rehabilitation of Sewer

Lines/Rising • Mains (85.7 Kms.) in UP • Rehabilitation of Sewer Lines (73 Kms.) and improvements in efficiencies of

existing

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• Sewage Treatment Plants in Haryana. • Preparation of detailed Project Reports for projects to be taken up under future

YAP Phase-III In addition to the above, the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has also taken up sewerage and sewage treatment works along with non-sewerage works in large-scale out of its own plan funds.

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WATER TREATMENT PLANTS FOR LAKES AND PONDS OF RAJASTHAN

1878. DR. PRABHA THAKUR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government propose to install water treatment plants for making some lakes and ponds of Rajasthan pollution free and also for the conservation of pure water; and (b) if so, the names of the lakes and ponds selected for installing water treatment plants; and (c) by when the work of installing water treatment plants would be completed along with the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (c) Ecological restoration of Mansagar Lake of Jaipur, Rajasthan is under way since December 2002, which includes setting up of a sewage treatment plant for the treatment of sewage. The project has been approved at a cost of Rs. 24.72 crore based on 70:30 funding pattern between the Central and the State Government. No further concrete proposal for pollution abatement in lakes under the National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) has been received from the Government of Rajasthan. In

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response to this Ministry’s letter to all the State Governments to prioritize lakes of their State, some basic information regarding eight lakes of Rajasthan viz. Anna Sagar and Pushkar (Ajmer), Fateh Sagar, Pichola, Swaroop Sagar and Jaisamand (Udaipur), Jait Sagar (Kota) and Nakki Lake (Mount Abu) had been received earlier from the State Government. Later, the State Government had requested for placement of funds for preparation of the detailed project reports only for three lakes of Rajasthan viz, Pichola, Swaroop Sagar and Fateh Sagar of Udaipur. As per the guidelines of the NLCP, the types of works/activities that can be taken up under this Plan include the following:

- prevention of pollution from point sources by intercepting, - diverting the pollution, - insitu measures of lake cleaning such as desilting, deweeding, bio-

remediation, etc. The State Government in response to the above proposal was requested to clarify the position regarding the activities proposed to be covered under the NLCP. 30 percent cost of the project will be shared by the State and full operation and maintenance cost are some of the others commitments which were also required to be given by the State Government. The above clarifications from the State Government are awaited as yet.

********



WATER POLLUTION AT PALI

2634. SHRIMATI HEMA MALINI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware about the Pali, a textile town in Rajasthan which is water-scarce State; (b) whether Government are also aware about the filth it produces is hampering crops around; (c) whether it is a fact that only after protest from residents and farmers, the first treatment plant of the country was set up there to control pollution of water; (d) whether Government are planning to construct more such plants to treat water pollution; and (e) if so, the details thereof?.

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ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) The State of Rajasthan, including Pali area, is known for its water scarcity linked to annual average rainfall. (b) to(e) Pali has a cluster of small scale dying and printing textile units, the effluents from which need treatment before their discharge. The first Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) at Pali was, accordingly, set up in 1983 by RIICO (Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation Ltd.) for control of water pollution. The plans for mitigating water pollution from these textile units include upgradation of three existing CETPs, laying of pucca drain and construction of a new CETP in the area. ********



CONSTRUCTION OF TRANSMISSION TOWERS ACROSS RIVERS

3408. SHRI S.M. LALJAN BASHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether any representations have been received on the negative impact of construction of transmission towers across rivers in the country; (b) if so, the details of such problems; (e) whether the River Conservation Programme has any policy which deals with the unplanned construction of power transmission towers in the lower reaches of rivers; (d) the steps proposed to ensure that rivers and their flows are not negatively affected by such un-planned construction; (e) whether any inspection has been done till date; and (f) if so, the details in this matter?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (f): A representation from Chairman, Forum on Special and Human Rights is reported to have been received in the Union Ministry of Power raising certain points relating to the construction of transmission towers across rivers by Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd.(PGCIL) in general and across Godavari river in particular. This representation was sent by the Ministry of Power to PGCIL. The PGCIL after examining the matter is reported to have informed that rivers enroute the transmission lines are normally crossed by placing towers on the banks of the river and in case where the width of the river is large, mid-stream towers are provided on pile or well foundations. As the size of the structure is small, they do not alter the river currents/free flow of water in a river and as such pose no environmental concerns. These foundations are generally constructed away from perennial river streams to avoid abstention to navigation and danger to boats and steamers. As per the information furnished by the Union Ministry of Power, construction of transmission line is taken up as per the programme of planned development in the transmission system. Where it is necessary to have transmission line across rivers, very high towers of special designs are used for river crossing so as to avoid towers in lower reaches of rivers. The towers in the lower reaches of rivers require pile foundation involving extra expenditure and therefore, such towers are minimised to the extent possible and as such there is no unplanned construction of power transmission towers in the lower reaches of the rivers. By adopting high towers of special designs, long span across the river is achieved, so that the safety of the towers as well as the flow of the river is not affected. *********



CLEANING OF YAMUNA

3403. SHRIMATI JAYA BACHCHAN

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Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that the Supreme Court has recently lashed out at Delhi Government for not cleansing Yamuna, if so, what are the details in this regard; (b) what actions Government have since taken to clean and improve the surroundings of Yamuna; (e) whether there is any representation to allow use of any space near Yamuna for housing or other construction activity; and (d) whether Government have drawn any lesson from the Mumbai flood following use of land near Mithi River for construction activity?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (NAMO NARAYAN MEENA) (a) & (b): Hon`ble Supreme Court on September 7, 2005 in the matter of PIL No. 724/1994 has issued directions for taking up the pollution abatement works in Yamuna in a time bound manner and that the progress in this regard be reviewed periodically by the Government of NCT of Delhi and in addition by an Apex Committee under the Hon`ble Court. In this context, the Delhi Jal Board has separately decided to appoint international consultants for a comprehensive study to find out a complete solution for pollution abatement in the river Yamuna at Delhi. The matter was further heard on December 12, 2005, when the Court made strong observations in the context of its earlier orders regarding timely submission of affidavits and status report of periodical reviews. The Court also directed the Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of Delhi and Chief Executive Officer, Delhi Jal Board to file their affidavits within 10 days and ensure their personal presence on the next date of hearing. (c) Proposals for taking up various developmental activities in the flood plains of river Yamuna are received in Central Water Commission (CWC) for consideration by Yamuna Standing Committee (YSC) set up under the Chairmanship of Member, River Management, CWC. Since reclamation of the land in the flood plains of the river affect the river regime and result in raise in High Flood Level, proposals for construction of public utility structures in the flood plains are received in CWC for clearance from time to time. The proposals which may not cause significant adverse affects in the river regime and the flood levels are cleared by the YSC. (d) According to the Central Water Commission, the main reason for recent flood in

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Mumbai was unprecedently high rain fall over a short period. The encroachment in the flood plains of Mithi River are reported to have accentuated the problem. ********



POLLUTION OF PUSHKAR POND

3413. DR. PRABHA THAKUR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware of the fact that millions of pilgrims take holy dip in the `Sarovar` of `Tirthraj Pushkar` every year and the water of this `Sarovar` has become fully polluted and posing greater possibility of multiple diseases to the pilgrims taking holy dip therein; (b) whether Government have received any proposal regarding erection of a water treatment plant at the Sarovar from Government of Rajasthan in order to clean the water; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (c): The Pushkar Sarovar at Pushkar in Ajmer District, which is of religious significance, is reported to be polluted. The Ministry of Environment and Forests so far has not received any proposal from the State Government of Rajasthan for undertaking pollution abatement measures in Pushkar Sarovar under the National Lake Conservation Plan. *********

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POLLUTED LAKES IN ANDHRA PRADESH

249. SHRIMATI VANGA GEETHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government had surveyed the polluted lakes in the country during the last one year especially in Andhra Pradesh; (b) if so, the details of such surveys made in each district; (c) the remedial steps taken and to be taken by Government in this regard; (d) whether Government are facing financial crunch to clean the polluted lakes; (e) if so, the amount allocated, so far; and (f) the amount to be allocated during the coming year to clear the lakes from pollution?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The Government of India has not conducted any survey but a study was carried out for identification of polluted lakes in the country in the year 2003. The study identified 62 lakes, out of which 2 lakes namely, Osman Sagar at Hyderabad and Pulicat at Nellore were in respect of Andhra Pradesh. This list was sent to all States and the State Governments were requested to prioritise the lakes for conservation in their State. The Government of Andhra Pradesh has prioritised three lakes which are as follows:- i) Banjara Lake, Hyderabad ii) Mir Alam Lake, Hyderabad iii) Pulicat Lake, Nellore District

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The State Government of Andhra Pradesh through the Hyderabad Urban Development authority (HUDA) have taken up the survey of water quality of 87 lakes in the Hyderabad Development Area covering the districts of Hyderabad, Ranga Reddy and partially Medak. In addition, four lakes have been taken up for study by the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board for remediation. (c): The Government oflndia has already sanctioned the project for cleaning and rejuvenation of Banjara lake at Hyderabad at a cost of Rs. 2.75 crore in February 2005. The project components include bio-remediation, diversion of sewage and construction of Sewage Treatment Plant and lake front development etc. The Government of Andhra Pradesh has not submitted any proposal in respect of Mir Alam and Pulicat Lakes. (d)to(f): An allocation of Rs. 220 crore was originally made for National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) during the X Plan period, out of which Rs. 103 crore have been released for implementation of conservation works in 37 lakes. Allocation of fund during the coming year shall be subject to the progress of ongoing projects, utilisation of funds released and new proposals to be submitted by the State Governments.

*******



ILLEGAL SAND MINING

3424. SHRI K. CHANDRAN PILLAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware of the large scale illegal sand mining taking place in the beds of various inter-state, State rivers in the country, especially in Kerala; (b) if so, whether it has resulted in the environmental degradation in the respective regions; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether there is any Central level mechanism to control illegal sand mining on the river beds; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (e) The information is being collected and will be placed on the Table of the House. ******




MAJOR RIVERS CHOKED WITH INDUSTRIAL EFFLUENTS

284. SHRI JANARDHANA POOJARY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether a number of major rivers and their tributaries are choking with industrial effluents and other pollutants; (b) if so, what are the details in this regard and the programmes initiated by Government to clean the rivers indicating the amount spent thereon during the last three years; (c) whether it is a fact that heavy discharge of sewage water in the Yamuna River is creating havoc with the aquatic life in the river and defeating the River Conservation Plan; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the corrective steps taken in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A.RAJA) (a) to (d): 71 river stretches are polluted inter-alia due to discharge of domestic and industrial effluents. Steps taken by the Government with regard to pollution from

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industrial and other sources include notifying industry specific effluent standards, promoting setting up of common effluent treatment plants and environmental surveillance by the Central Pollution Control Board, State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Committees, besides improving the quality of water in major rivers through the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). Under the NRCP, pollution abatement works are undertaken including diversion and interception of sewage, installation of sewerage treatment plants, etc. A sewage treatment capacity of 865 mld under this programme launched in 1985 under Ganga Action Plan (Phase-I) has been created and subsequent to that, another 1421 mld capacity till the end of the last financial year. The amount spent works out to Rs.779.55 crores during the last three financial years under this programme. With its launching over the river Ganga, the quality of water in the river has shown improvement. Similarly, in the river Yamuna, the water quality has shown improvement except for a few stretches. Monitoring of water quality in the Yamuna has shown that in the lean season (March-June) during the year 2004, the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) in the stretch of the river between Wazirabad and Okhla barrage in Delhi has been as high as 28 mg/l and Dissolved Oxygen (DO) has been zero. This is not supportive of aquatic life. This is partly due to lack of fresh water in the river downstream of Wazirabad barrage. River conservation programme in the form of Yamuna Action Plan-I as part of the NRCP was also initially taken up on the river Yamuna which is now followed by Yamuna Action Plan, Phase-II (YAP-II). Under YAP-II, works of commissioning / rehabilitation of Sewage Treatment Plants of 135 mld / 324 mld capacity and rehabilitation of trunk sewers of 30.82 kms. are proposed to be undertaken. To tackle the pollution in the river in an integrated manner, the Ministry of Urban Development has also prepared an Integrated Action Plan including the components under YAP-II, to be implemented by different agencies of the Central Government and the State Government of the NCT of Delhi. ******



ACTIVE RIVER CONSERVATION POLICY

2094. SHRI S.M. LALJAN BASHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the reasons for the lack of enthusiasm on the part of Government for having an active river conservation policy;

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(b) the details for this reluctance; (c) whether it is a fact that representation from NGOs and others are un-heeded by Government; and (d) what steps will be taken to activate policies and schemes for effective river conservation?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b): The National River Conservation Directorate under the Ministry of Environment & Forests is the executing agency for implementation of projects on river conservation across the country. Under the programme of National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) being implemented by the Ministry, the water quality of the rivers is envisaged to be improved by implementing the following major works of pollution abatement:

• Interception and Diversion (I&D) • Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) • Low Cost Sanitation (LCS) • Crematoria (CRE) • River Front Development (RFD) • Public Participation & Awareness (PP&A)

(c): Does not arise. (d): The policy measures to improve the water quality of rivers have been laid down by a high level River Conservation Authority, namely, National River Conservation Authority, which are being followed both at Central Government and State Government levels. With the launching of the works of pollution abatement in Ganga in the year 1985 in the beginning, the NRCP now covers pollution abatement works in 32 rivers, spread over 158 towns and 19 States. *******

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VYPAR RIVER LINKING PROJECT

1861. SHRI K. CHANDRAN PILLAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether there is proposal for the Vypar River Linking project pending with Government; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government conducted detailed studies on the impact of such a project on the environment in the Southern Kerala; (d) whether Government considered the fact that most of the related areas in Kerala experience acute water shortage, particularly in the summer season; (e) if so, whether the project, if implemented, would further accelerate the situation; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): National Water Development Agency (NWDA) has prepared a feasibility report for transferring surplus water of Pamba and Aehankovil rivers of Kerala to Vypar basin of Tamil Nadu in 1995. Resolution dated 6.8.2003 was adopted unanimously by the Kerala Legislative Assembly urging the Central Government to give up the Pamba- Achankovil-Vypar Link project completely. The Ministry of Water Resources has decided not to treat Parnba-Achankovil-Vypar Link as a priority link for consensus building purpose. (c): No such detailed study has been conducted by the Ministry of Environment and Forests or by NWDA. (d) to (f): Do not arise. **********

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



STRATEGY FOR CLEANSING/RECLEANSING THE RIVERS

1869. SHRIMATI JAYA BACHCHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government have devised any fresh strategy to cleanse/recleanse the rivers of the country in the light of the experience gained in this regard from the earlier programmes/projects; and (b) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINIS`TRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (b): The objective of the National River Conservation Plan is to improve the water quality of the rivers through the implementation of the pollution abatement works like interception and diversion works, sewage treatment plants, low cost sanitation works, electric crematoria and improved wood crematoria, river front development, etc. In the light of the experience gained from these programmes, Govt. has discussed fresh strategies with the State Governments for cleaning rivers in various fora. Among the points delineated are as follows: o Urban local bodies/States leave the responsibility to create urban infrastructure so as to ensure that untreated sewage is not discharged into rivers and lakes o Additional resources may be generated for creation of such urban infrastructure by building into the external developmental costs, the cost of collection of sewage, its conveyance, treatment, etc. wherever new urban centres are developed and such costs should be built into the price of developed land o States may also consider exploring other means for raising resources for capital expenditure, such as, surcharge on property tax, stamp duty, etc.

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o Urban local bodies/State Governments need to further consider innovative ways for raising revenue for meeting the operation and maintenance costs by adopting measures, such as, levying user charges, sale of sludge, generation of power froth bio-gas in sewage treatment plants, creation of facilities for tourism, etc. o Public participation and awareness programmes to generate awareness among the public for keeping water bodies clean need to be also conducted simultaneously during implementation of pollution abatement schemes. ********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



POLLUTION ON WESTERN COAST

1867. SHRI EKANATH K. THAKUR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government are aware of the fact that heavy pollution in the waters of the western coast after the monsoon are killing shoals of fish; (b) whether it is a fact that this trend may have a bearing on the fall in the netting of prawns and pomfrets in recent years; (c) whether it is also a fact that this phenomenon is aggravated by pollution from fertiliser run offs entering the western water; and (d) If so, the steps Governments proposed to take to check the depletion in marine life?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): As per the information furnished by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), in view of fish mortalities observed in Mumbai during October 2005, the MPCB had got studies carried out through Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute,

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Mumbai and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur. The study report revealed that low prices combined with bumper landings of catfish are forcing the fish traders to discard the rotten catch after removal of air bladders. Slow swimmers like eels in intense upwelling are getting trapped and washed ashore in dead condition. These were the reasons for fish mortalities. The other reasons for low fish catch were reported to be loss of breeding areas, reduced flushing and pollution particularly in urbanised areas like Mumbai Metropolitan region, fishing by mechanined trawlers in excess of regeneration capacity and illegal fishing in some areas during breeding period. (c)&(d): Both Maharashtra and Goa Pollution Control Boards have reported negligible pollution from fertilizer run offs. Besides action taken as per provisions of Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 by the MPCB, well designed marine outfalls, Common Effluents Treatment Plants (CETPs) and Common Hazardous Wastes Treatment Storage and Disposal Facilities (CHWTSDF) are some of the infrastructures projects implemented particularly in Konkan (Coastal areas) of the Mahrashtra State to curb pollution from industrial sources. ***********

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MISCELLANEOUS



REEONSTITUTION OF COASTAL REGTILATIONS ZONE MANAGEMENT

AUTHORITIES

1103. SHRI B.J. PANDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that Government have reconstituted the Coastal Regulations Zone (CRZ) Management Authorities for all the coastal States and UTs including Orissa; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) how far this would help in protecting and improving the quality of coastal environment besides controlling the environment pollution in the coastal areas?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OE ENVIRONMENT AND, FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) &(b): The Central Government has reconstituted the Coastal Zone Management Authorities (CZMAs) in all coastal State’s/Union Territories (UTs) including Orissa except Karnataka, Goa and Lakshadweep under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 for a period of 3 years, (c): Keeping in view the diverse social and multidisciplinary issues of the coastal areas of the country, the Central Government while reconstituting the States/UTs CZMAs has included NGO representative and expert in the area of coastal management. This composition will enable the CZMAs to provide technical advise to the respective State/UT with regard to enforcement and implementation of the provisions of the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991 and to take measures for protecting and improving the quality of the coastal environment and preventing, abating and controlling environmental pollution in the coastal areas of the respective States/UTs. ********

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY RAJYA SABHA


EFFECT OF IMPORT OF USED TYRES

1758. SHRI B.K. HARIPRASAD Will the Minister of COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY be pleased to state:- (a) whether imported used tyres pose not only risks to safety but also constitute an environmental hazard; (b) whether Government would consider ban on import of used tyres alongwith a correction of the import duty structure to prevent dumping of tyres; and (c) whether forty countries, with improved road/highway infrastructure have banned import of used tyres and if so, whether Government would consider the same?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (SHRI E.V.K.S. ELANGOVAN) (a) to (c): Quantitative restrictions are maintained in terms of para 2.6 of Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) for protection of environment, protection of human, animal or plant life or health, etc. Import of used tyres is restricted and requires an import licence. However, considering the balance of interests of consumer and manufacturer it has been considered appropriate to regulate import of used tyres through the floor price mechanism. ********




DE-LICENCING OF SLAUGHTER HOUSES

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3470. DR. SWAMI SAKSHI JI MAHARAJ Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) the number of cattle being slaughtered everyday by slaughter houses being run illegally or by getting licence from Government and whether Government are aware that the cattle in a number exceeding the authorised limit are slaughtered, alongwith cow which are healthy, milch and conceived, by slaughter houses and the details of action taken by Government in this regard; and (b) the reasons for not cancelling the licences of slaughter houses by Government even though looted/stolen livestock including cows are being bought and slaughtered by slaughter houses?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI TASLIMUDDIN) (a)&(b): As per ‘Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2004’, 4.66 million heads of cattle were slaughtered in the country in 2002-2003. Slaughter houses function under the administrative control of local bodies/Panchayats. The number of cattle slaughtered in recognised slaughter houses in fixed and slaughtered animal is recorded by the licensing authority. The State Governments have their own Animal Preservation of Slaughter Control Acts in operation to prevent slaughter of breedable, milch and conceived animals. The States/Union Territories, except for Arunachal Pradesh, Kerala, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura and Lakshadweep have their own legislation on preventing/restricting the slaughter of cow and its progeny. ******

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LOK SABHA

AGRICULTURE


LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO 109


BAN ON Bt. COTTON IN ANDHRA PRADESH

109. SHRI RAJIV RANJAN (LALAN) SINGH E. PONNUSWAMY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether three varieties of Bt. Cotton approved by Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) in 2002 for Andhra Pradesh have been recently banned; (b) if so, the names of the said varieties along with the reasons for banning them; (c) whether GEAC has approved 18 new hybrids of Bt. Cotton for planting in India; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether GEAC has found the proof of successful seed production of above seeds; (f) if so, the names of Institute which have given the certificates; (g) whether adequate market is available for Bt. Cotton in India; and (h) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken to protect the interest of Bt. Cotton growing farmers?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND F0RESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a)&(b): The GEAC did not renew the permission granted in 2002 for commercial cultivation of the three Bt Cotton varieties namely MECH 12 Bt, MECH 162 Bt and MECH 184 Bt in respect of Andhra Pradesh because of its overall unsatisfactory performance in the State as reported by them.

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(c)&(d): The GEAC has approved 17 new Bt Cotton varieties for commercial cultivation for a period of three years. List of approved varieties for various zones is at Annexure -I. (e)&(f): The Bt seeds were extensively tested in the contained and multi-locational trials under supervision of the Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) as per the detailed guidelines and procedures framed for the purpose. Subsequent to this, Bt seeds were put under the large scale field trials of the GEAC as well as under the Indian Council of Agriculture & Research (ICAR) testing system. The large-scale field trials and ICAR trials have been evaluated by the Monitoring–cum–Evaluation Committee (MEC) and the Indian Council of Agriculture & Research respectively. The GEAC has taken into consideration the recommendations of the MEC and ICAR while approving the Bt variety for commercial cultivation. (g)&(h): The overall area under Bt. Cotton has increased over the last three years as reported by the Bt. Cotton growing States. The detailed State wise statement is at Annexure II. To protect the interests of Bt. Cotton growing farmers, the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) is implementing a scheme known as National Agriculture Insurance Scheme (NAIS), which covers cotton crop, including Bt Cotton. The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) has organised a number of training-cum-awareness workshops to sensitise the farmers on the benefits and management of Bt cotton as well as the potential risk associated with illegal Bt Cotton seeds. MOA and MoEF have advised the Bt. Cotton growing states to take necessary punitive action against the producers and vendors of illegal Bt Cotton seeds under the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Seed (Control) order, 1983. To assist the State Governments in controlling the release of spurious seeds, the Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR), Nagpur has been notified as the referral laboratory for detecting the presence/absence of Bt. genes. The institute has also developed a simple and cheap testing kit for quick verification of Bt gene in cotton. Annexure-I Bt Cotton varieties approved for commercial cultivation in the various zones S.NO Name of Hybrids Name of Company Zone 1 NCS – 207 Mallika M/s Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd. Central & South

2 NCS – 145 Bunny M/s Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd. Central & South 3 RCH 2 Bt M/s Rasi Seeds Ltd Central & South 4 RCH –144 Bt M/s Rasi Seeds Ltd Central

5 RCH –118 Bt M/s Rasi Seeds Ltd Central 6 RCH - 138 Bt M/s Rasi Seeds Ltd Central 7 RCH – 20 Bt M/s Rasi Seeds Ltd South

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8 RCH – 368 Bt M/s Rasi Seeds Ltd South

9 RCH – 134 Bt M/s Rasi Seeds Ltd North

10 RCH – 317 Bt M/s Rasi Seeds Ltd North

11 MRC – 6322 Bt M/s Mahyco South

12 MRC – 6918 Bt M/s Mahyco South

13 MRC – 6301 Bt M/s Mahyco Central & North 14 MRC – 6304 Bt M/s Mahyco North

15 Ankur – 651 Bt M/s Ankur Seeds Ltd Central & North 16 Ankur 2534 Bt M/s Ankur Seeds Ltd North 17 Ankur – 09 M/s Ankur Seeds Ltd Central States covering each zone: Central Zone (Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra & Gujarat) South Zone (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka & Tamil Nadu) and North Zone (Punjab, Rajasthan & Haryana). Annexure-II Area under commercial cultivation of Bt Cotton in acres States Kharif 2002 Kharif 2003 Kharif 2004 Andhra Pradesh 9,404 13,500 1,76,000 Madhya Pradesh 3,676 33,000 2,12,798 Gujarat 22,577 1,03,000 3,11,157 Maharashtra 30,699 54,000 3,99,000 Karnataka 5,401 7,500 84,764 Tamil Nadu 925 19,000 29,640 Total 72,682 2,30,000 12,13,359 *********

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LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 1721 TO BE ANSWERED ON 14.03.2005

1721. SHRI SUKHBIR SINGH BADAL: Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:

(a) whether Punjab Agriculture University authorities have asked the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) to release Bt. cotton varieties for cultivation in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan and save farmers from the clutches of unscrupulous traders who have been fleecing cotton growers by selling unapproved seed varieties;

(b) If so, the details thereof: and

(c) By when it will be released to farmers of these State?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTILAL BHURIA)

(a) Yes Sir. (b) Vice Engineering Approval Committee of Union Ministry of Environment and

Forests, which is the nodal authority for taking the decision of release of genetically modified crops to farmers, has approved Bt cotton hybrids for cultivation in North Zone on March 4, 2005.

******


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE & COOPERATION LOK SABHA


PRODUCTION OF ORGANIC COTTON

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5417. SHRI ANANDRAO V. ADUSUL SHRI RAVI PRAKESH VERMA Will the minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:

(a) whether the organic cotton is in demand and offers a good opportunity for Indian cotton farmers;

(b) If so, the facts thereof;

(c) the scheme prepared by the Union Government to encourage organic cotton

production;

(d) the per acre incentive given to farmers in this regard?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRUCULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a)&(d): The Government has taken up a new scheme ‘National Project on Organic Farming’ for production, promotion, certification and market development of organic farming including cotton. Under the scheme, assistance is available for the following components:- (1) Putting in place a system of certification of organic produce. (2) Capacity building through service providers.

(3) Financial support for commercial production units of organic inputs like fruits &

vegetable waste compost, bio-fertiliser production and hatcheries for vermiculture.

(4) Training, field demonstration, promotion and market development.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE & COOPERATION

LOK SABHA

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UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 5549 TO BE ANSWERED ON 2 .05.2005

SCHEME FOR CONTAMINATED WATER

5549. SHRI M P VEERENDRA KUMAR Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether any scheme/proposal in under consideration of the Government to give the financial/technical assistance to recycle contaminated water for the use of farmers; and

(b) If so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRUCULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a)&(b): Government of India is not implementing specific scheme for providing financial assistance to the farmers to recycle contaminated water for the crop production. However, Indian Council Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed technology for use of contaminated water/sewage water in agriculture. The potential of using sewage water for irrigation was assessed on crop production in three cropping systems, viz, food grain production (rice-wheat) along or with agro-forestry (rice-wheat with poplar), vegetable production (cauliflower-okra-spinach) and fodder production (berseem-sorghum) systems. The study has showed higher yields of paddy (14%), wheat (4%) and cauliflower (23%) under sewage water irrigation compared to tube well water irrigation.

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LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 5593 TO BE ANSWERED ON 2 .05.2005

ILLEGAL Bt. COTTON VARIETIES

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5593 SHRI D VITTAL RAO Will the Minister of AGRICUTURE be please to state:

(a) whether the illegal varieties of Bt Cotton are spreading at a fast rate; (b) If so, the reaction of the government thereto;

(c) whether the regulatory bodies are not showing any response to control the

situation by penalisine the offenders;

(d) If not so, the reason therefore; and

(e) The steps taken/to be taken by the Government to stop the spreading of illegal varieties of Bt cotton ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRUCULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a)to(e) No Sir. However, there have been certain reports of production and supply of illegal Bt, Cotton seeds in some State, particularly in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee in the Ministry of Environment and Forests and Department of Agri.& Cooperation have advised all the Bt Cotton growing State from time to time to take punitive action against producers, suppliers and venders of spurious Bt Cotton seeds under the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Seeds Legislations. Besides, the Central Institute for Cotton Research, Nagpur has been notified as referral lab for detecting of seed certification. A laboratory has been established in the Directorate of Seed Certification, Coimbatore to test cotton seed to analyse whether it contains illegal Bt gene. It has been intimated by the Government of Punjab, where Bt Cotton varieties have been approved for cultivation during Kharif 2005, that they have issued strict instructions to all field functionaries to check and stop sale of any spurious seeds. They have also undertaken massive campaigns for educating farmers on the issue. The Government of Gujarat has intimated that they are taking all precautionary steps through its quality control mechanism to check any illegal sale of spurious Bt Cottonseeds which includes directives to all District Collectors and a massive awareness programme for the farming community. Up to June 2004, 61751 kgs. of suspected Bt Cotton seed were detained and action taken .

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NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR ORGANIC FARM

4422 SHRI LONAPPAN NAMBADAN SHRI VARKALA RADHAKRISHNAN Will the Minister of AGRICTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Government has taken any step to establish a National Institute of Organic Farm (NIOF);

(b) If so, the details thereof along with the roles and objectives of NIOF;

(c) whether the Government has got any proposal/offer from Government of Kerala

to make available adequate land in Kerala for the NIOF; and.

(d) If so, the details thereof and alongwith the response of the Government in this regard?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRUCULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)

(a) & (b) : In order to promote organic farming in the country, the Government has launched a new Scheme ‘National Project on Organic Farming’ during 10th Five Year Plan as pilot project, Under this project, the National Bio-fertiliser Development Centre (NBDC), Ghaziabad and its six Regional Centres (RBDCs) at Hissar, Jabalpur, Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Bangalore and Imphal have been renamed as National Centre of Organic Farming (NCOF ) and Regional Centres of Organic Farming (RCOFs). The main objectives of NCOF are: -

(1) To facilitate, encourage and promote development of organic agriculture in the country.

(2) To prepare inventory or organic resources available for recycling in agriculture in different agro-climate regions.

(3) To encourage production of organic sources of nutrients like bio-fertilisers, organic manures, compost, etc, and bio-pesticides, bio-control agents, etc, as certified input for organic farming.

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(4) To act as nodal agency for formulation of standards and mechanism of accreditation, inspection, regulation, quality control and monitoring.

(5) To initiate and encourage research for promotion of organic agriculture practices and the dissemination of know how through extension .

© & (d) : The Government of Kerala offered to make available 200 hectares of land available with the Kerala Agricultural University at Thiruvizhamkunnu in Palakkad District for setting up of NIOF. However, it has been decided that NDBC Ghaziabad and its six Regional Centres will be converted into NCOF and RCOFs. Therefore, it has not been possible to consider the request of Government of Kerala for setting up of NIOF in Kerala State. *************



GENETICALLY MODIFIED CROPS

4499. SHRI DALPAT SINGH PARASTE Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that a genetically modified strain of sunflower-yellow, vitamin-enriched rice has been developed by the British scientists for transfer to countries like India; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether agricultural experts and scientists have expressed doubts over this new variety; and (d) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto?

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ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTILAL BHURIA) (a) & (b): British scientists have been reported to have developed a new genetically modified strain of sunflower-yellow, vitamin-enriched rice by introducing genes for production of high levels of beta-carotene. No proposal has been received for its transfer to India. (c) & (d): It is a recent report. Testing/evaluation is yet to be carried out.

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GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD PRODUCTS

151. DR. M. JAGANNATH Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the attention of the Government has been drawn to the study report carried out by the American multinational food giant, Monsanto pointing out serious ill effects of genetically modified food products on health as reported in the Hindu, June 04, 2005 under the caption ‘Imported soy, corn products may be harmful’; (b) if so, whether the Government propose to put a ban on the release of GM food in the Indian markets as requested by various civil society groups and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs); and (c) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTILAL BHURIA) (a): Yes, Sir. The Government is aware of the report which appeared in the `Hindu` on

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June 04, 2005. However, the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India which is the nodal Ministry for regulation of Genetically Modified Organisms has not received any adverse report regarding harmful impact of genetically modified food on human health. (b)&(c): All genetically modified organisms and products thereof are regulated in India under the Rules for the Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Micro Organisms Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells, 1989, framed under the provisions of The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. These rules provide that all food stuffs, ingredients in food stuffs and additives including processing aids containing or consisting of genetically engineered organisms or cells, shall not be produced, sold, imported or used except with the approval of the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC). Introduction of any new technology requires a careful evaluation of the long-term sustainable benefits/impacts. Therefore the Government is following a policy of case-by-case approval of GM products. As per the prescribed biosafety guidelines all genetically modified food are required to be tested for toxicity and allergencity prior to its approval for human consumption. As of date, the GEAC has not approved the import or production of GM food for consumption in the country. The guidelines for testing of the food products at the point of entry are notified under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954.

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LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 59


SPURIOUS BT. COTTON

59. SHRI BASUDEB ACHARIA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the attention of the Government has been drawn to the news-item appearing in `Business Standard` on July 2, 2005 regarding illegal sale of spurious Bt. Cotton seeds in the country; (b) if so, the details in this regard; (c) whether the attention of the Government has also been drawn towards the suffering caused to the farmers due to poor production of cotton from such spurious Bt. Cotton seeds; and (d) if so, the action taken/proposed in this regard?

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ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a)to(d): There have been certain reports of production and supply of spurious Bt. Cotton seeds in some states particularly, in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. The Government of India has advised in 2004 to all the Bt. Cotton growing States to take necessary punitive action against the producers and venders of illegal Bt. Cotton seeds under the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Seed (Control) Order, 1983. Department has again instructed Bt. Cotton growing States in 2005 reiterating its earlier stand and requested to create awareness amongst the farmers through awareness campaign regarding the potential risks associated with illegal Bt. Cotton seeds. The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) have also advised all the Bt. Cotton growing States from time to time punitive action against producers, suppliers and venders of spurious Bt. Cotton seeds under the provision of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Seed Legislations. Besides, the Central Institute for Cotton Research, Nagpur has been notified as referral lab for detecting the presence/absence of Bt. Gene. As per information made available by the Department of Seed Certification, Tamil Nadu, a laboratory has been established in the Directorate of Seed Certification, Coimbatore to test cotton seed to analyse whether it contains illegal Bt. Gene. It has been intimated by the Government of Punjab, where Bt. Cotton varieties have been approved for cultivation during Kharif-2005, that they have issued strict instructions to all field functionaries to check and stop sale of any spurious seeds. They have also undertaken massive campaigns for educating farmers on the issue. The Government of Gujarat has intimated thay they are taking all precautionary steps through its quality control mechanism to check the sale of spurious Bt. Cotton seeds, which includes directives to all District Collectors and a massive awareness programme for the farming community. As on date 22 Bt. Cotton hybrids of four seed companies are commercially released by the GEAC and are available to the farmers in the country.

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PROMOTION OF BIO FARMING

216. SHRI DUSHYANT SINGH JUAL ORAM

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Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is assisting the State Governments in promoting bio-farming; and (b) if so, the details of the assistance extended by the Government to States in promoting bio-farming, State-wise?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) & (b): Yes Sir. The Government is assisting the State Governments in promoting bio-farming (organic farming) through the ‘National Project on Organic Farming’. The Government has provided financial assistance of Rs.322.44 lakhs to different States during 2004-05 as given below

State Amount (Rs. in lakhs)

1. Assam 1.07 2. Arunachal Pradesh 4.49 3. Chhatisgarh 14.98 4. Gujarat 2.00 5. Himachal Pradesh 2.00 6. Karnataka 1.53 7. Kerala 1.71 8. Maharashtra 5.32 9. Manipur 6.69 10. Meghalaya 2.34 11. Mizoram 45.31 12. Madhya Pradesh 6.89 13. Punjab 0.24 14. Sikkim 10.34 15. Tripura 8.98 16. Tamil Nadu 1.00 17. Uttar Pradesh 9.35 18. Uttaranchal 48.20 19. Through NABARD 150.00

Total 322.44

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BANNED PESTICIDES

4646. SHRI VARINDER SINGH BAJWA Will the Minster of Agriculture be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that a number of banned pesticides are still being used by

farmers of Punjab and elsewhere in the country; (c) if so, the details thereof; and

(d) The steps taken to curb and check the marketing of such pesticides and action

taken against culprits?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRUCULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)

(a) & (b): Government does not have any authentic report regarding use of banned pesticides by farmers in Punjab and other parts of the country.

©: The manufacture, sale, distribution and use of banned pesticides in a punishable offence under the Insecticides Act, 1968. Insecticide Inspectors have been provided with the requisite powers to ensure that the provisions of the Act and the Rules made there under are compiled with.

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STUDY ON RANDOM HUMAN BLOOD SAMPLES

177. SHRI MANVENDRA SINGH Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that according to a recent study based on random human blood samples from Malwa belt in Punjab, the pesticide residue in the blood of farmers in this area has been found to be 15 to 605 times higher than that is present in the blood of US farmers; (b) if so, the reaction of the Government in this regard; (c) whether the Government proposes to initiate measures for educating farmers in all States and Union Territories in the country on the judicious use of pesticides; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefore?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a): Yes Sir. (b): An Expert Committee has been constituted to analyse the findings of the study on Ànalysis for Pesticides Residues in Blood Samples from Villages of Punjab` published by the Centre for Science and Environment in March 2005 and recommend corrective policy measures as may be necessary. (c) to (e): Government is already promoting the strategy of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) which envisages use of biological, mechanical, cultural and other methods of pest control and only need based judicious use of pesticides. The ill effects of the indiscriminate use of pesticides is also emphasised during the training of farmers in the Farmers` Field Schools (FFSs) on IPM. A total of 9111 FFSs have been conducted by the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine and Storage from 1994-95 to 2004-05 wherein 37,281 Agricultural Extension Officers and 2,75,056 farmers have been trained in IPM. *********

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NEW AGRICULTURAL POLICY

1191. SHRI ANANTA NAYAK Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government proposes to introduce a new Agricultural policy; (b) if so, whether it has since been drafted; (c) if so, the salient features thereof; (d) the time by which the new policy is likely to be introduced?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH) (a): No, Sir. (b) to (d): Do not arise. ***********



SWAMINATHAN COMMITTEE REPORT

1111. SHRI ABDUL RASHID SHAHEEN

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Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether any action has been taken on Swaminathan Committee Report; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; and (d) the steps initiated so far regarding creation of National Biotechnology Regulatory Authority and the time by which it will come in force?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH) (a)to(c): The Government has examined the report of the Task Force on Agricultural Biotechnology set up under the Chairmanship of Prof. M.S. Swaminathan. On the basis of Interministerial consultations on the recommendations of the Task Force with various Ministries/Departments, the Government has decided ten priorities for implementation. The details are enclosed in Annexure-I. (d): As the creation of National Biotechnology Regulatory Authority (NBRA) involves complex issues which are of inter-ministerial nature, the matter is under consideration of the Government. Annexure-I Priorities for Agri-Biotechnology: 1. Finalisation of National Biotech Policy by the Department of Biotechnology. 2. Rationalisation of approval process under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 as suggested by Prof. M.S. Swaminathan`s Task Force. 3. Release of Bt. Cotton varieties for North Zone. 4. Post-release monitoring to be started by Department of Agriculture & Cooperation and Indian Council of Agricultural Research. 5. Capacity building for post-release monitoring and training.

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6. Public awareness campaign to be launched by the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation in association with State Agricultural Universities and other scientific organisations/institutes. 7. Finalising combined strategy for arresting spread of non-approved Bt. Cotton seeds. 8. Developing the testing facilities for Genetically Modified seeds. 9. To finalise Action Plan for the components relating to Agri-biotechnology in the National Biotech Policy. 10. Identification of crops and traits for use of application of biotechnology.

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PROJECT ON ORGANIC FARMING

1073. SHRI VARKALA RADHAKRISHNAN Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has received any project proposal from Government of Kerala on organic farming under the National Project on organic farming; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the action taken by the Government thereon?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH) (a) to (c): No project proposal has been received from Government of Kerala on organic farming under National Project on Organic Farming so far.

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MAGIC LIQUID FOR CROPS BY PEPSI

127. SHRI MAHBOOB ZAHEDI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Pepsi Foods is introducing a health spray called `magic` liquid in India; (b) if so, whether this health spray for plants is claimed by the company as cheaper in rate and would improve farmers’ earning; (c) whether the technology is patented by the Gujarat based Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether ICAR and the Department of Biotechnology are pushing seaweed cultivation as a promising money-spinner for rural farmers; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) to (d): The information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House. (e)&(f): The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi is carrying out R&D activities on seaweed cultivation and has developed technology for culture of seaweed in open seas that holds promising potential for raising income of fishermen on account of its great demand as sea food as well as in pharmaceuticals and allied industries.

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AWARENESS CAMPS AGAINST DANGERS OF PESTICIDE

209. DR. M. JAGANNATH Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government proposes to hold awareness camps on the dangers of pesticides consumption and use; and (b) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) & (b): The Central and State Governments already impart training to farmers on the safe and judicious use of pesticides. The ill effects of the indiscriminate use of pesticides is also emphasised during the training of farmers in the Farmers` Field Schools (FFSs) on Integrated Pest Management (IPM). A total of 9111 FFSs have been conducted by the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine and Storage from 1994-95 to 2004-05 wherein 37, 281 Agricultural Extension Officers and 2,75,056 farmers have been trained in IPM.

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CONTRACT FARMING SYSTEM

85. SHRI SURAVARAM SUDHAKAR REDDY C.K. CHANDRAPPAN SUBRATA BOSE Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware of the contract farming system being practiced in

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certain States; (b) if so, the States which have adopted this system and nature of contract farming in these States; (c) whether in many cases the contracts are tended to be biased in favour of the promoter companies and they are reluctant to share with grower`s the risk of crop failure even if it is caused by faulty seeds or technology provided by them; (d) if so, the details thereof and the Government`s view on adoption of contract farming system; and (e) the steps proposed to be taken to safeguard the interests of the farmers involved in the contract farming?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)

(a): Contract farming has been prevalent in various parts of the country for commercial crops like sugarcane, cotton, tea, coffee, etc. The concept has, however, gained importance in recent times in the wake of economic liberalisation. The main feature of contract farming is that farmers grow selected crops under a buy back agreement with an agency engaged in trading or processing. (b): The State Governments of Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Nagaland have provided legal support to contract farming by making provision for it under the State Agricultural Produce Marketing Regulation Act (APMC Act). Nature of contract farming depends on the crops, the objectives and resources of the buying company and the experience of the farmers. These agreements can be in the nature of pre-harvest agreement that bind the firm and the grower for the sale of the crop on specified price. The agreement may also require the buyers to supply crop inputs, extension or credit in exchange for the marketing agreement. (c)to(e): Small farmers in India are generally capital starved and cannot make major investment in land improvement and modern inputs. Contract farming can fill up this gap by providing the farmers with quality inputs, technical guidance and management skills and most importantly link them to assured and profitable markets. In view of above, contract-farming arrangements are supported by the Government as a measure of reform in agricultural marketing sector. While doing so, Government has sought to protect the interest of both the farmers as well as the industry equitably, by suggesting arrangement for registration of sponsoring companies and recording of contract farming agreements, in order to check unreliable and spurious companies. A dispute resolution mechanism is

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also suggested to be set up near to farmers which can quickly settle issues, if any, arising between the farmers and the company under a quasi-judicial manner. The farmers while raising the contracted crops, run the risk of incurring debt and consequent displacement from land in the event of crop failure. Farmers have to be indemnified from such displacement by law. A model APMC Act inter-alia containing provisions to the said effect has been circulated to State Government/Union Territories for adopting as the subject matter falls within their jurisdiction.

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ORGANIC COTTON

2252. SHRI RAMAKRISHNA BADIGA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether a Dutch Company is working with Andhra Pradesh tribal farmers to grow organic cotton; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the total areas under cultivation as on date and benefits accrued to tribal farmers therefrom; and (d) the plans being worked out to expand such co-operations in other parts of the country?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a): Yes, Sir. (b) & (c): Solidaridad – ETC Consultants India Pvt. Ltd, Hyderabad is working on production of organic cotton in 8 villages of Asifabad Mandal in Adilabad District of

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Andhra Pradesh covering an area of about 250 hectares. The tribal farmers are receiving additional gains because of reduction in cost of production and better prices. (d): The above Company is planning to expand their programme to tribal dominated Kalahandi District of Orissa and tribal districts of Chhattisgarh State. *****



USE OF HIGH YIELDING AND HYBRID VARIETIES

2103. SHRI MAHBOOB ZAHEDI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Indian Council for Agricultural Research`s (ICAR’s) high yielding and hybrid varieties are used by farmers; (b) if so, whether coupled with poor extension services, the inability of ICAR and other public sector research organisations to reach the farmers effectively, forces the Government to rely on the private sector; (c) if so, whether the processes like hybridisation are the technological means that stop seed from reproducing itself; (d) whether hybrid varieties do not produce true-to-type seed and farmers must return to the breeder each year for new seed stock; and (e) if so, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTILAL BHURIA) (a): Yes, Sir. (b): The role of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is primarily to produce

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breeder seed. The production of foundation and certified seed is through state agencies and in this respect ICAR has been able to produce breeder seed as per the requirement of the Government and often in excess of the requirement placed. The Government continues to sponsor seed produced in the public system. (c): The harvest of a hybrid crop does not produce true to the type seed in the next generation because of segregation. The Government of India has not allowed any terminator technology, which hinders the seed from reproducing itself. (d) & (e): It is known that the hybrids give the best performance in its first generation and latter on segregates. The next generations do not produce the same yield and therefore, farmers have to purchase hybrid seeds every year.

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USE OF UREA

3825. SHRI RUPCHAND MURMU Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether Indian farmers have been using an overdose of the controlled urea to severe imbalance in soil contents; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the details of fresh initiatives taken/proposed to rectify the imbalance?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a)&(b): The All India average Nitrogen : Phosphorous : Potassium (N:P:K) ratio during 2004-05 is estimated at 5.9 : 2.3 :1 and is skewed in favour of Nitrogen.

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(c): The Government is promoting Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) which includes soil test based balanced and judicious use of chemical fertilisers in conjunction with organic fertilisers like farm yard manure, green manure, compost, vermicompost and biofertilisers, etc.

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SUICIDE BY FARMERS

3791. SHRI ASADUDDIN OWAISI PRABHUNATH SINGH M.P. VEERENDRA KUMAR MOHAN SINGH SANAT KUMAR MANDAL SUSHEELA LAXMAN BANGARU PRALHAD VENKATESH JOSHI RAGHUNATH JHA TEK LAL MAHTO Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) the number of cases of suicide committed by farmers including female farmers due to drought, crops failure and debt recorded in the country, particularly in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka and Punjab during each of the last three years and thereafter, State-wise; (b) whether the rate of suicides committed by the farmers have come down this year in comparison to the last year; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) if not, the reasons therefore; (e) whether the Nationalised Banks and Semi-Nationalised Banks are formulating any scheme to reduce interest on loan to the farmers;

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(f) if so, by when the decision is likely to be taken in this regard; (g) whether the Government proposes to constitute a committee to prevent and study the cause of such incidents; (h) if so, by when and if not, the reasons therefore; and (i) the steps taken by the Government to rehabilitate/compensate to repay the debt of the families of such farmers?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a)to(f): Information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House. (g)&(h): In Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra, where large number of cases of suicide by farmers have been reported in the past few years, the State Governments have taken necessary steps to deal with the problem. In Karnataka, a Committee under the Chairmanship of Dr. Veeresh was constituted to examine the causes of suicide by farmers. The State Government has also taken measures for building confidence among farmers with the help of psychologists and social scientists. The Raitha Samparka Kendras have been set up to receive representations and complaints of farmers. In Andhra Pradesh, a Cabinet Sub-Committee has been constituted to examine the situation arising out of suicide by farmers. A Commission on Farmers` Welfare was also constituted by the State Government to examine the circumstances leading to suicide by farmers. The Commission has since submitted its report to the State Government. In Maharashtra, Divisional Commissioner undertook the inquiry whenever a case of suicide by farmer has been reported. The State Government has entrusted a study to the Indira Gandhi Institute for Development Research, Mumbai to examine socio-economic issues underlying these suicides. (i): Government of Karnataka grants an ex-gratia relief of Rs.1 lakh to each family of the deceased farmer if he has committed suicide due to burden of loan borrowed from financial institutions. In Andhra Pradesh, the family of each of the deceased farmer is provided an ex-gratia relief of Rs.1.00 lakh besides Rs. 50,000 towards liquidation of farm debt. In addition, steps are taken as part of social cushion to the families by allotment of houses under Indira Awas Yojana Scheme, provision of self-employment to atleast one member of each family, etc.

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In Maharashtra, an ex-gratia of Rs.1.00 lakh is provided to each of the affected families from the Chief Minister`s Relief Fund if it is established that the suicide is caused due to agricultural indebtedness. ********



BAN ON USE OF SPRAYS ON FOOD PRODUCT AND GREEN VEGETABLES

3770. SHRI E. PONNUSWAMY SANTOSH KUMAR GANGWAR Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Government is aware that the some companies are marketing spray adjuvant products for reducing surface tension of water for the purpose of spray and irrigation; (b) if so, whether the Government has examined the side effects of the said product, on food products particularly green vegetables; (c) if so, the findings thereof; (d) if not, the reasons therefore; (e) whether some tests were conducted on crops by some leading research centres; (f) if so, the details thereof; and (g) the steps being taken by the Government to ban use of such sprays on vegetables?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a)to(g): The Registration Committee constituted under Section 5 of the Insecticides Act, 1968 has granted registration to some pesticide formulations which contain various adjuvants including agents for reducing surface tension of water. Such registration is only

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granted after the Registration Committee is satisfied regarding their safety and efficacy to human beings and animals.

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USE OF SUB- STANDARD SEED, MANURE AND PESTICIDES

375. SHRI PRALHAD VENKATESH JOSHI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether International Food Policy and Research Institute has mentioned in its report about food grains being spoiled due to the use of sub-standard seeds, manure and pesticides in India; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Government has taken any concrete step on the basis of this report; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a): This Ministry is not aware of any such report by International Food Policy and Research Institute (IFPRI) indicating that the food grains are being spoiled due to the use of sub standard seeds, manure and pesticides in India. (b) to (d): Question does not arise. To regulate quality of seeds, manure, fertiliser and pesticides, mechanisms are in place under the Seeds Act, 1966, Seeds Rule, 1968, Seeds (Control) Order, 1983, Fertiliser (Control) Order, 1985 and Insecticides Act, 1968 as amended from time to time. Enforcement of these legal instruments is vested with the State Governments/Union Territories. Inspectors notified under these legal instruments are empowered to draw the samples, seize the stock, issue stop sale order in case the commodities under reference contravene these Acts, Rules and Orders. Salient features of these legal instruments are annexed.

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Annexure-1 Salient features of the Seeds Act, 1966 and Seeds Rules, 1968 *The Seeds Act was enacted in 1966 and Seed Rules were framed in 1968 to ensure that the farmers could get good quality seeds. * After official release, varieties are notified under the Seeds Act so that quality of seeds can be regulated. * The main purpose of notification is to bring the seeds of particular crop under the purview of Seed Law Enforcement. * The seed inspectors notified under Section 13 of Seeds Act are empowered to draw the sample and analysis for verification of the quality of seeds. * Notification of the variety is made by Central Government on the recommendation of the Central Seed Committee. * Seeds Act and Seeds Rules provide for quality certification and minimum quality standards of notified kind/varieties. * The Seeds Act authorises formation of Advisory Body like Central Seed Committee (CSC), Central Seed Certification Board (CSCB), Seed Certification Agencies, Seed Testing Laboratories, appellate authorities, etc. Quality Control as envisaged in the Act is to be achieved through pre & post marketing control, voluntary certification and compulsory labelling of notified kind/varieties. * Minimum limit for germination, physical and genetic purity of varieties have been prescribed and notified for labelling the seeds of notified kind varieties under Section 6 of the Seeds Act. * There is a provision to set up Central Seed Laboratory and State Seed Laboratory (100 in number) to discharge functions enshrined under Section 4 (1) and 4(2) of the Seeds Act. * Seed analysts are appointed through notification with prescribed qualification. * State Government under Section 13 of the Seeds Act may appoint such person as he thinks fit having prescribed qualification through notification as Seed Inspector and defined the areas within which they shall exercise jurisdiction for enforcing the Seed Law. * Seed Inspectors appointed under relevant provision have adequate power under Section

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14 of the Seeds Act to draw the samples of notified kind/varieties of seeds from the source where the seeds have been sold. * Seed Inspectors can seize the stock of the seed, issue stop sale order for 30 days in case the seed under reference contravenes the Act and Rules. * If any person, contravenes any provision of the Act or any Rules, or prevents a Seed Inspector from taking sample under this Act or prevents a Seed Inspector from exercising any other power conferred on him, could be punished under Section 19 of the Act with a fine of five hundred rupees for the first offence. * In the event of such person having been previously convicted of an offense under this Section with imprisonment for a term, which may extend to six months or with fine, which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both. Annexure-II Salient features of the Seed Control Order, 1983: * The Ministry of Civil Supplies through an order dated 24.02.1983 had declared the seed for sowing or planting or food crops, fruits, vegetables, cattle fodder and jute to be essential commodities in exercise of power conferred by Section 2(a)(viii) of Essential Commodities Act, 1955. * It was followed by the issue of Seeds (Control) Order dated December 30, 1983 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture & Cooperation in exercise of powers contained in Section 3 of Essential Commodities Act which deals with Central Governments power to control and regulate production, supply and distribution of essential commodities. * Joint Secretary (Seeds), Government of India, Ministry of Agriculture, DAC has been appointed as Seed Controller. * It is one of the legal instruments being enforced to check the supply of inferior seeds of notified and unnotified seeds to the farmers. All persons carrying on the business of selling, exporting and importing seeds will be required to have a licence to carry on the business in accordance with terms and conditions of licence granted to him. * Based on such enquiry as it thinks fit the licensing authority may grant or refuse the license in provisions of the Order. A holder of licence shall be eligible for renewal.

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* Seed Inspectors notified under clause 12 of the Order eligible to draw any samples of seeds meant for sale or export/import etc. and to ensure that the sample confirms to the standards of quality claimed by the Seed Dealer under clause 13 (c) of the order. * Seed Inspectors have powers for search and seize the seeds under relevant provisions of this order. * Licensing Authorities are empowered to cancel or suspend the licence under the relevant provision of the order. * Appellate provisions were provided in the order. Annexure-III Salient features of Fertiliser (Control) Order, 1985: *There is no control order for manure/organic fertiliser as on date. Efforts are being made to include organic fertiliser and Bio-fertiliser under Fertiliser Control Order (FCO) * Quality of fertiliser is regulated under Schedule I of FCO, 1985 under ECA, 1955. * FCO, 1985 prohibits the sale of such fertilisers which do not meet the standards specified in FCO. Violation of provision of FCO is actionable both administratively and legally under FCO/ECA. *There are 67 fertiliser quality control testing labs in the States including 4 labs of the central government - one each at Faridabad, Mumbai, Chennai and Kalyani. *The analysing capacity of laboratories is about 1.25 lakh samples per annum. *The State Governments are the enforcement agencies for implementation of the FCO.

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* The percentage of non-standard samples at all India level is around 5-6%. Annexure-IV Salient features of the Insecticide Act, 1968 *Import, manufacture, sale and distribution of pesticides is regulated under the Insecticides Act, 1968 and Insecticides Rules, 1971. There is a provision for registration of pesticides at the Central Government level and licensing for manufacturing and sale of pesticides by States/UT Governments after registration. *The Registration Committee constituted under Section 5 of the Insecticides Act, 1968 registers pesticides only after satisfying itself regarding their efficacy and safety to human beings and animals. If the pesticides are used as per the guidelines contained on their labels and leaflets, they do not cause any damage to human beings, animals or the environment. *The Act provides for notification of four important functionaries for this purpose viz., Licensing Officer, Appellate Authority, Insecticide Inspector and Insecticide Analyst to ensure that only genuine/quality pesticides are dispensed/distributed in the market. Stringent administrative/legal action against defaulters of law is taken by the States/UTs. *There is a network of 46 State Pesticide Testing Laboratories and 2 Regional Pesticide Testing Laboratories of the Central Government and the Central Insecticides Laboratory, established under Section 16 of the Insecticides Act, 1968 to test and analyse the quality of insecticides. About 50,000 samples are drawn and tested annually.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE LOK SABHA


ADULTERATION IN FERTILISERS

650. SHRI SUBRATA BOSE

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Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has received complaints regarding adulteration in fertilisers, insecticides and chemicals due to which production is declining every year; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the steps taken by the Government to prevent this malpractice?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH) (a) to (c): No cases of large scale adulteration of fertilisers, insecticides & chemicals have been reported to the Ministry. By and large good quality of fertilisers & insecticides are being sold in the country. Any decline in crop yield cannot be attributed to the non-availability of good quality fertilisers and insecticides. Natural factors like untimely rains, fast winds, floods/droughts, etc. play their role in reducing crop yield. Fertiliser (Control) Order, 1985 ensures that fertiliser which meet the standards of quality laid down in the Order, are sold to the farmers. Similarly, the quality and sale of pesticides and insecticides are regulated under the provisions of Insecticides Act, 1968. The State/UTs Governments are the enforcement agencies and are adequately empowered to take appropriate action under the provisions of the Fertiliser (Control) Order, 1985/Essential Commodities Act, 1955/Insecticides Act, 1966. To ensure that the farmers get the standard quality of inputs, States have been advised to regularly check the quality of fertilisers & insecticides. The samples of fertilisers and insecticides are drawn by the notified inspectors for analysis and report. Training programmes for insecticides and fertiliser Analysts and Inspector to upgrade their knowledge and functional skills in the analysis and enforcement of various provisions of Insecticides Act and Fertiliser (Control) Order, are organized, which are followed by periodical review during Zonal Conferences.

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Bt. COTTON SEEDS

1832. SHRI AJAY CHAKRABORTY Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether after Andhra Pradesh and some other States, Bt Cotton seeds failed to germinate in large scale in Tamil Nadu resulting in great loss to cotton-growers; (b) if so, whether the cotton seeds of other varieties, the cost of which is substantially less than Bt Cotton seeds, did germinate 100 percent; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether the Government proposes to do away with the Bt Cotton seeds; and (e) if so, the efforts being made to compensate the cotton growers who suffered heavy losses and are on the verge of total ruin?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a)to(c): As per the information provided by the Government of Tamil Nadu, there is no report of failure of Bt. cotton crop in the State. (d)&(e): Question does not arise. *********



USE OF OXYTOCIN FOR MILK

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3837. SMT. MANEKA GANDHI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware of the fact that oxytocin is used by Government officials at milk yielding competitions arranged by the Department of Animal Husbandry in Tirupati; and (b) if so, the efforts made by the Government to stop such practice?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI TASLIMUDDIN) (a)&(b): No, Sir. However, by way of precaution, the Government has advised the State Animal Husbandry Departments to educate the farmers in the States/UT`s about the appropriate use of the oxytocin and for not using this product without the prescription of registered veterinary practitioners. **********



PURITY STANDARDS OF INDIAN PRODUCTS

2857. SHRI KISHANBHAI VESTABHAI PATEL

Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Agriculture Produce (Grading and Marketing) Act, 1937 fixes quality standards; (b) if so, the details in this regard; (c) whether the Government has any proposal to consider purity standards fixed by the International Standard Organisation in this field; (d) if so, the details in this regard;

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(e) the names of the agriculture products approved so far by the core group on harmonisation of fruits and vegetables; and (f) the steps taken by the Government to increase the grading for export purpose?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a)&(b): Agricultural Produce (Grading and Marking ) Act, 1937 empowers the Central Government to frame Grade standards of agricultural produce. These standards are popularly called Agmark Standards and are voluntary. Till date Grade standards for 181 agricultural commodities in the category of cereals, pulses, oilseeds, spices, fruits and vegetables, vegetable oils, butter, ghee, honey, etc. have been framed and notified. (c)&(d): While framing the Agmark Standards, relevant National Standards fixed under the provisions of Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 and the International Standards fixed by Codex Alimentarius Commission, United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), Economic Commission (EC), International Organization for Standardization, etc. are also considered. However, the characteristics and intrinsic quality of Indian produce is kept in consideration while fixing the Agmark standards. (e): Ministry of Commerce and Industry has constituted a Standing Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables for drafting and finalisation of standard. A core group of experts comprising of representatives of Directorate of Marketing and Inspection (DMI), APEDA, trade, etc. is assisting the Standing Committee to draft standards. Standards of 18 fruits and vegetables namely table grapes, litchi, mangoes, pineapples, pomegranate, guavas, shelling peas, sugar snap peas, Brussels sprouts, headed cabbage, ribbed celery, spinach, banana, papaya, plums, tomato, garlic and onion have been notified. Standards of another 14 fruits and vegetables namely strawberries, cherries, melons, watermelons, beans, cauliflowers, pears, okra, chilies, capsicum, sapota, custard apple, gherkins and carrots drafted by the core group have been approved by the Standing Committee. The above standards are harmonised with National and International Standards viz. Codex Alimentarius Commission, UNECE, EC etc. (f): Director General of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce & Industries has notified DMI as official certification agency for export of fresh fruits and vegetables for export to European Union. **********

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HIGH LEVEL OF DIOXINS IN EGGS

704. SHRI SURESH CHANABASAPPA ANGADI SUBODH MOHITE S. AJAYA KUMAR K.S. MANOJ Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether a study conducted by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) called ‘Toxics Links’ have come out with a report which bring out that eggs produced in India contain dioxins as reported in The Hindu dated October 18, 2005; (b) if so, the facts and details thereof; (c) the reaction of the Government thereto; (d) its likely adverse effect on the health of the eggs consuming population; (e) whether there is any guideline for breeding and feeding of chickens in the country; (f) if so, the details thereof; and (g) if not, the measures proposed to be taken by the Government to keep World Health Organisation (WHO) criteria in the country?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a)to(d): Samples of free-range chicken eggs collected by the Non-Governmental Organisation, Toxics Link, from a source in close proximity to the medical waste incinerator of the Queen Mary`s Hospital, Lucknow were reportedly found to contain dioxins, which may cause adverse health effects. The Government has taken note of these findings. (e)&(f): The Government has published poultry feed standards for different age groups

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and different species. These are based on Codex standards, industry experience and inputs from academic institutions. The Central and State Government agencies also provide guidance on best practices for poultry breeding. (g): Not applicable. **********



ORGANIC MANURE

1665. SHRI PRALHAD VENKATESH JOSHI

Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) the details of the total bulk of the organic manure produced in the country by using various unconventional methods in the entire rural areas; (b) the details of the total bulk of such organic manure extracted from the excreta of the cows; (c) the details of the total percentage of such organic manure of cows account for out of total use of organic and chemical manure put together; (d) the details of the total quantity of manure required for Indian agriculture during the last three years, State-wise with special references to Karnataka; and (e) the total quantity of Chemical and Fertiliser required for a particular agricultural season?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a): The total bulk of organic manure produced in the country by using various unconventional methods like animal excreta, crop residues, biogas slurry, green manures, rural compost, bio-fertiliser etc. in rural areas is estimated at 5.89 million tonne in plant

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nutrient form (N+P+K). (b): About 1.299 million tonne (in plant nutrient form – N+P+K) organic manure is extracted from the excreta of the cattle. (c): Approximately 5.2 per cent of total use of organic and chemical manure put together comes from such organic manure of cattle. (d): Since organic manure are mostly produced and used on farm, the state-wise information is not available. (e): The total requirement of chemical fertilizers has been assessed to be 11.78 million tonne (N+P+K) for Rabi 2005-06.

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USAGE OF PLASTICS

3881 SHRI RAVI PRAKASH VERMA SHRI MATI D. PURANDESWARI SHRI KUNWAR MANVENDRA SINGH SHRI ASADUDDIN OWAISI SHRI ANANDRAO V ADSUL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether conferences on plasticulture and use of plastic were held in different sectors of the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether certain sectors of industry and agriculture find it unavoidable; and

(d) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto?

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ANSWER

MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A RAJA) (a) & (b): An International Conference on Plasticulture and Precision Farming was

organised by the National Committee on Plasticulture Applications in Horticulture, Ministry of Agriculture during November 17-21, 2005 at New Delhi. The conference addressed various areas such as micro and sprinkler irrigation, sub surface drainage, lining of water storage and conveyance systems with plastics film, surface covered cultivation, precision farming, organic farming m biotechnology, , post harvest management including packaging, storage technology , policy issues etc.

© In the agriculture sector, various plasticulture applications like drip and sprinkler irrigation, green houses, mulching etc, offer a range of benefits such as water saving , moisture conservation and increase in productivity. Plastic products such as pipes, tubings and films are unavoidable for sustainable agriculture and to increase agricultural productivity. Plastics also find application in packaging, automobile and construction sectors.

(a) Considering the importance of plastics in horticulture development , the Ministry of Agriculture has a National Committee on Plasticulture Applications in Horticulture to promote and develop the use of plastics in agriculture, water management and related fields. The Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals in the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers also facilitates the growth of the Petrochemicals industry including the plastic processing industry.

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IMPACT OF FLY ASH ON BARREN LAND

2801. SHRI BALASHOWRY VALLABBHANENI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government are aware of the findings recently that the fly ash can make

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barren land fertile; (b) if so, whether any further study is likely to be made on this as this is likely to make large barren area fertile besides implementing environment cleaning process; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a) to (c): The Indian Council of Agricultural Research has not conducted any systematic study on use of fly ash for reclamation of waste/barren lands. The existing evidence in literature suggests improvement of physical properties of soils, especially water holding capacity in coarse textured soils, with the application of fly ash.

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AIR POLLUTION



POLLUTION IN PATNA

1591. SHRI RAM KRIPAL YADAV

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware about pollution problems in Patna which causes many diseases to the people living there; (b) if so, whether NASA has also given warning and satellite picture which confirm black cloud centralised on Patna and other part of Gangetic plain thereof; (c) if so, whether the Government has any plan to take care and tackle this environmental problem; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Based on the analysis of satellite data captured by National Aeronautic and Space Administration (NASA), United States of America (USA), researchers have reported about winter-time pool of air polluting particles over the Indian subcontinent, particularly over Bihar. Pollution observed over Bihar does not solely originate from there, but could be due to transportation of pollution from western portions of the Ganges Valley. Additionally, the meteorology and topography surrounding Bihar favour trapping of pollution during winter. The pollution observed in Bihar during winter is also attributable to burning of bio-fuels and coal used during cooking and other domestic cores.

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(c)&(d): The Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Board have initiated steps including action plans to control air pollution from various sources like vehicles, industries, domestic fuel burning, etc. ********



STUDY BY NASA ON POLLUTION LEVEL

5502. SHRI RAJEN GOHAIN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) the steps being taken by the Government to check environmentally polluted States of the country preferably in rural areas and main cities of the country; (b) whether a National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) research team and other teams examining air pollution levels over the Indian subcontinent have found an immense pollution pool over large number of States of the country; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether a large source contributing to the State`s pollution pool is the inefficient burning of variety of bio-fuels during cooking and other domestic use; (e) if so the steps being taken by the Central Pollution Board and State Pollution Control Boards in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): For abatement of pollution from various industrial activities, measures have been initiated which inter-alia include the following: (i) Notification of general and source specific standards and their enforcement;

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(ii) Regular monitoring for compliance of prescribed environmental norms; (iii) Promotion of better technologies and cleaner fuels; (iv) Issuance of notices/direction to defaulting units for installation of pollution control devices; and (v) Implementation of the Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environmental Protection for 17 categories of polluting industries. (b) & (c) Based on the analysis of satellite data captured by National Aeronautic and Space Administration (NASA), United States of America (USA), researchers have reported about winter-time pool of air polluting particles over Indo-Gangetic plain, where meteorology and topography favour trapping of pollution during winter. (d) The studies indicate that a large source of pollution is inefficient burning of bio-fuels (largely fuel wood, dung-cake and crop waste) used during cooking and other domestic use, the use of coal for utilities and industries and the use of diesel oil for transportation. (e) The Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Board have initiated steps including action plans to control air pollution from various sources like vehicles, industries, domestic fuel burning, etc.

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IMPACT OF POISONOUS AIR ON HUMAN HEALTH

5570. SHRI ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Government is aware that the air in many cities including metro cities and towns has not only become polluted but poisonous also; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether not only common men but neo-natal children have been found to be suffering

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from heart ailments as a result of the same; and (d) if so, the effective steps the Government is taking to protect against the future impending calamity?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the ambient levels of sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen in major cities and towns are well within the prescribed environmental norms on annual average basis. However, the ambient levels of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) have exceeded the prescribed limit in some cities/towns. (c)&(d): There is no conclusive data available to confirm heart ailments attributable to air pollution. The strategies adopted and measures taken to control air pollution include supply of improved auto-fuel, tightening of vehicular and industrial emission norms, mandatory environmental clearance for specified industries, promotion of cleaner technologies, strengthening network of air quality monitoring stations, assessment of air pollution load and source apportionment studies, preparation and implementation of action plans for major cities and critically polluted areas.

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POLLUTION IN METRO CITIES

3461. SHRI SURESH PRABHAKAR PRABHU A. RAVICHANDRAN SIPPIPARAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has prepared any comprehensive and concrete action plan to bring down the alarming pollution levels in all metro and mega cities in the country, particularly Mumbai; (b) if so, the details thereof;

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(c) whether the Government has conducted any study to assess the impact of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) use on the pollution levels in Delhi and other metro cities; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) by when all metro and mega cities are to become pollution free?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Government has prepared city-specific action plans to control and regulate pollution in the mega cities of the country, including Mumbai. These action plans include various components like air, water and noise pollution and waste management. Specific emphasis has been laid on control of vehicular pollution, industrial pollution, burning of fossil fuel and other biomass to arrest the increasing air pollution. These action plans are at various stages of implementation. (c)&(d): Ambient air quality of Delhi is being monitored by the Central Pollution Control Board and the data reveals that there has been reduction in the concentration of almost all the pollutants, except for NOx, which has marginally increased. The introduction of CNG as automotive fuel in public transport has brought visible positive effects in the ambient air quality. (e): An Auto Fuel Policy has been drawn with a road map for improved air quality which, inter alia, include cleaner fuels, automobile technologies and enforcement measures. **********



GRANTS IN AID FOR EFFLUENT TREATMENT PLANTS

5564. SHRI KAILASH MEGHWAL

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Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Ministry of Environment and Forests provides grants-in-aid for encouraging common effluent treatment plants; (b) if so, details of the grants-in-aid provided during the Tenth Five Year Plan, year-wise, State-wise and plant-wise; (c) whether Air Quality Monitoring Systems are also being run by the Ministry; (d) if so, the names of places where these systems have been installed and the details of amount spent on these systems during the said period, State-wise and system-wise; (e) whether any proposal for increasing Air Quality Monitoring Systems and other allied schemes is under consideration of the Government; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Yes, Sir. The Ministry of Environment and Forests provides grants-in-aid in terms of Central subsidy matching amount provided by the State Government for common effluent treatment plants (CETPs). During the Tenth Five Year Plan, funds have been released for the CETPs in the State of Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Punjab and Andhra Pradesh to the tune of Rs.2.47 crores, Rs.5.47 crores and Rs.3.95 crores during 2002-03, 2003-04 & 2004-05 respectively (c)&(d): The Central Pollution Control Board has established 313 ambient air quality monitoring stations in the country and three continuous air quality monitoring stations are in operation in Delhi. The amount spent on ambient air quality monitoring network during 2002-03, 2003-04 and 2004-05 was Rs.2.35 crores, Rs.2.13 crores and Rs.1.76 crores respectively. (e)&(f): There is a proposal for increasing the ambient air quality monitoring stations and also to set up 16 continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations on a cost sharing basis with the respective State Pollution Control Boards.

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POLLUTION CONTROL WITH COORDINATION OF UNEP

4488. SMT. BHAVANA PUNDLIKRAO GAWALI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the details of development in Environment and Forest sector of the country during the last two years in co-ordination with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP); and (b) the extent to which co-ordination of UNEP has been helpful in preventing and controlling the air pollution in Metropolitan cities of the country?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a): UNEP has provided technical assistance under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to India in the areas of promoting industrial energy efficiency through cleaner production, assessment of soil organic carbon stocks, management of agro-biodiversity for sustainable land use and technology transfer networks and for concept development for sustainable urban transport systems in selected Asian countries. (b): Currently there is no activity with UNEP in preventing and controlling the air pollution in Metropolitan cities of the country.

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AIR POLLUTION IN ASIAN CITIES

3522. SHRI UDAY SINGH

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Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware of a study which finds high air pollution level in Asian cities as reported in the ‘Hindu’ dated December 08, 2004; (b) if so, whether the impact of outdoor air pollution in Asian cities is rapidly increasing; (c) if so, whether the Government have taken any steps in this regard; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b): Yes, Sir. The Health Effects Institute (HEI), Boston has carried out a study on ‘Health Effects of Outdoor Air Pollution in Developing Countries of Asia’ reporting combustion as the main source of air pollution in most Asian cities. As per the projections in the study, the expected economic growth may experience substantial increase in its use of coal and motor vehicle fuels. (c)&(d): The steps taken by the Government to abate air pollution include: * Identification of sources of air pollution. * Notification and enforcement of air quality and emission standards. * Regular monitoring of air quality. *Introduction of improved technologies and cleaner fuels. *Issuance of notices/directions to defaulting units for installation of pollution control devices. * Implementation of the Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environmental Protection for 17 categories of polluting industries. ********

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DRIVE AGAINST VEHICULAR POLLUTION

1689. SHRI KINJARAPU YERRANNAIDU Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is going to launch a major drive against vehicular pollution; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and (c) the benefits general public will get from it?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The Government of India have initiated a number of steps for abatement of vehicular pollution in the country, which, inter alia, include the following :

• Enforcement of auto exhaust emission standards for new vehicles at manufacturing stage;

• Use of improved fuel quality; • Road map up to 2010 to control vehicular pollution for both the new and in-use

vehicles; • Establishment of Pollution Under Control (PUC) Checking Centres; • City-specific action plans have been prepared to control air pollution, which are at

different stages of implementation. (c): The above steps have been initiated with a view of improving the air quality.

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POLLUTING UNITS IN WEST BENGAL AND JHARKHAND

24. SHRI BIR SINGH MAHATO

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the number of cases registered city-wise in West Bengal and Jharkhand under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1994 during the last three years; and (b) the action taken thereon under the said acts so far?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): In the State of Jharkhand, four cases have been registered in the cities of Hazaribagh and Sareikela-Kharsawa during last three years by Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board under Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. Similarly, West Bengal Pollution Control Board has filed two cases in the cities of Serampore, district Hooghly and Durgapur district Burdwan. (b): The Boards are enforcing the mandatory provisions of these Acts and have also issued show cause notices, closure orders against polluting units for compelling the industry to comply with environmental norms as stipulated under various Acts. ***********



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MIXING OF NAPHTHA IN PETROL

71. SHRI AVTAR SINGH BHADANA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware about mixing of naphtha in petrol; (b) if so, the percentage thereof; (c) whether smoke of naphtha mixed petrol is dangerous for environment and health; and (d) if so, the type of ill effects of naphtha mixed smoke on health and the steps taken by the Government to stop this mixing?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Yes Sir, few cases of adulteration of fuels with naphtha and other solvents have been reported. (c): Fuel adulteration increases the emissions of harmful pollutants in vehicle exhaust including hydrocarbons (HC) like benzene and Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and particulate matter (PM), which are detrimental for human health and environment. (d): To check the adulteration, the Government has initiated special vigilance drives along with regular as well as surprise inspection of retail outlets, joint inspection of retail outlets by the industry teams and surprise inspection by mobile laboratories. Introduction of filter paper test and density checks for fuel testing, furfural doping of kerosene for public depot supply and introduction of blue dyeing of kerosene have also been introduced. *********



DEATHS DUE TO POLLUTION

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2286. SHRI M. ANJAN KUMAR YADAV Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that the Centre of Science and Environment has in its recent studies disclosed about a large number of deaths in the major cities of the country caused by the environmental pollution; (b) if so, the details thereof showing the total annual increase in environmental pollution in terms of percentage vis-a-vis increase in the number of deaths during the last two years, State-wise; (c) the strategy being chalked out by the Government to check the environmental degradation causing a large number of deaths every year; and (d) the expenditure involved therein?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), a non-governmental organisation, has not done any study recently disclosing on large numbers of deaths in the major cities of the country caused by environmental pollution. However, CSE undertook a study in 1997 on the ill effects of air pollution on health and found increased incidences of morbidity and mortality in few Indian cities. CSE also undertook a study in the year 2004 on pesticide exposure in some villages in Punjab and found pesticide residues in the blood samples. However, there is no conclusive scientific evidence available to establish cause-effect relationship between the environmental pollution and incidences of mortality and morbidity. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, no definite trend of increase in air pollution in residential areas of major cities was observed except in respect of Oxides of Nitrogen and Respirable Suspended Particulate Matters (RSPM) in few metro cities during the last two years. (c)&(d): Strategies adopted for control of environmental pollution include comprehensive policy for abatement of pollution, supply of improved auto-fuel including CNG, tightening of vehicular and industrial emission norms, mandatory environmental clearance for specified industries, management of municipal & bio-medical wastes, promotion of cleaner technologies, setting up of network of air and water quality monitoring stations, rivers and lakes conservation programmes, assessment of pollution load and source apportionment studies, preparation and implementation of action plans for major cities and critically polluted areas. Budgetary allocation of about Rs. 487 crores provided to this Ministry during the current financial year include undertaking various

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plan schemes pertaining to monitoring and control of pollution, hazardous waste management, common effluent treatment plants, rivers and lakes conservation programmes, environment impact assessment of developmental projects, clean technologies, etc. Besides, the budgetary allocations of other concerned Ministries and Departments at the Central and State levels also include schemes for conservation and improvement of environment. *********



RELATIVE POLLUTION LEVEL IN INDIA

2259. SMT. SANGEETA KUMARI SINGH DEO JIVABHAI AMBALAL PATEL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the status of India in the world in respect of pollution; (b) the reaction of Government in this regard; (c) the steps taken by the Government to check this problem; and (d) the success achieved by the Government by taking such steps?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): A study conducted by a team of scientists at Yale and Columbia Universities on the 2005 Environmental Sustainability Index (ESI), which integrates various data sets including past and present pollution levels, environment management efforts, etc., has rated India at 101 position out of 146 countries. (b)&(c): The steps taken for prevention and control of pollution include : - Notification of general and source specific environmental standards; - Introduction of cleaner fuels and improved vehicular technologies; - Implementation of the Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environmental protection for seventeen categories of polluting industries; and

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- Regular monitoring for environmental compliance.

(d): Due to various abatement measures taken, the increasing trend in pollution, has been arrested with categorical improvement in environmental quality, as determined by competent scientific institutions.

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EFFECT OF CNG ON ENVIRONMENT

2292. SHRI C.H. VIJAYASHANKAR K. DHANARAJU RAGHURAJ SINGH SHAKYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has assessed the improvement in the environment of Delhi by usage of CNG in vehicles; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Government has any scheme to encourage the use of CNG instead of diesel in other big cities also; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Ambient air quality data for the years 2003 and 2004, the years after the introduction of CNG, at Delhi’s busiest traffic intersection at ITO indicate reduction in the levels of pollutants like Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) and Carbon Monoxide (CO). However, the level of Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) and Particulate Matter still exceed the ambient air quality standards. This could be attributed to the rise in vehicle population.

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(c)&(d): Pursuant to the Hon’ble Supreme Court’’s directions, 16 most polluted cities of the country have prepared action plans to improve the ambient air quality. Change over to cleaner fuels like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)/Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), etc. is one of the measures contemplated in the action plans.

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POLLUTION LEVEL IN CITIES

371. SHRI ANANTRAO GUDHE MADAN LAL SHARMA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the names of the most polluted cities of the country in their order of the extent of pollution; (b) the existing level of pollution in each of the said cities; (c) whether the Union Government has conducted or proposes to conduct any survey in this regard; (d) if so, the details of the same; and (e) the steps being taken/proposed to be taken by the Union Government to check pollution in these cities?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a)&(b): Based on the monitoring of ambient air quality data, the cities have been ranked as per the levels of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) measured in residential area during 2004. The list of cities and their pollution level is annexed.

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(c)&(d): Assessment of air quality is an on-going activity of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs). The Central Pollution Control Board is executing a nation-wide programme of ambient air quality monitoring known as National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP). The network consists of 326 air quality monitoring stations covering 116 cities/towns in 28 States and 4 Union Territories of the country. (e): The steps taken to abate air pollution include: # Notification of general and source specific environmental standards; # Identification of sources of pollution; # Enforcement of auto exhaust standards for vehicles at manufacturing stage; # Introduction of cleaner fuels and improved vehicular technologies; # Regular monitoring for environmental compliance. Annexure-I Ranking of cities based on RSPM levels observed in residential areas obtained under National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP) Rank City RSPM Annual average concentration during 2004 (Res. Areas) in micrograms/Nm3 1 Raipur 275 2 Jharia 202 3 Jalandhar 197 4 Kanpur 184 5 Alwar 178 6 Lucknow 157 7 Satna 154 8 Korba 154 9 Faridabad 152 10 Indore 149 11 Solapur 144 12 Ahmedabad 138 13 Pune 137 14 Guwahati 135 15 Agra 133 16 Delhi 131

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17 Jamnagar 130 18 Dhanbad 129 19 Vadodara 128 20 Vapi 128 21 Kolkata 122 22 Nagda 121 23 Surat 119 24 Ankaleshwar 119 25 Bhilai 117 26 Jaipur 115 27 Madurai 115 28 Chandigarh 111 29 Varanasi 111 30 Jodhpur 110 31 Howrah 104 32 Trivendrum 102 33 Kota 95 34 Visakhapatnam 95 35 Rourkela 89 36 Udaipur 86 37 Patna 84 38 Nasik 82 39 Mumbai 77 40 Parwanoo 74 41 Chandrapur 73 42 Bangalore 71 43 Jabalpur 69 44 Nagpur 64 45 Coimbatore 63 46 Kozhikode 55 47 Bhopal 54 48 Hyderabad 54 49 Kottayam 51 50 Kochi 49 51 Titicorin 41 52 Chennai 31 Note :- The data of Jharia is of industrial area and data of Agra is of Taj Mahal (sensitive area) **********

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LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.164

POLLUTION CONTROL MEASURES

164 SHRI SARBANANDA SONOWAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Union Government provided funds to control all types of pollution including environmental pollution in the country;

(b) if so, whether environmental pollution has not decreased commensurate with the funds spent in this regard;

(c) if so, the reasons attributed thereto; and (d) the details of action plan chalked out to check increasing pollution?

ANSWER

MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A.RAJA) (a): The Union Government provide funds to control the following types of pollutions:

i. Abatement of pollution in rivers and lakes; ii. Establishment of Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP);

iii. Construction of infrastructure facilities for treatment, storage and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes;

iv. Monitoring for compliance of Environment Standards; v. Assistance for abatement of pollution;

vi. Grant-in-aid to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

(b)&(c): Due to various abatement and enforcement measures taken, there has been improvement in environmental quality as determined by monitoring by independent scientific and technical institutions. In this connection, International Development has observed that in terms of both time and cost involved, the Ganga Action Plan –1 compares favourable with those of major rivers of the world. Similarly, the air quality in all metro cities have shown improvement as a result of various abatement measures undertaken. Monitored data indicate that Sulphur Dioxide and Oxides of Nitrogen which are key air pollutants are currently within notified standards.

(d) The steps initiated to abate pollution include:

1. Notification and enforcement of emissions and effluent standards for various industries/activities;

2. Regular monitoring of environmental quality; 3. Issuance of notices/directions to non-complying units;

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4. Action plan for improvement of air quality in identified polluted cities; and

5. Implementation of Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environmental Protection (CREP) for 17 categories of polluting industries.

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ATOMIC ENERGY



EFFECT OF TSUNAMI ON KALPAKKAM ATOMIC POWER PLANT

387. SHRI SUGRIB SINGH SALARAPATTY KUPPUSAMY KHARVENTHAN PRADEEP GANDHI BALESHWAR YADAV Will the Minister of ATOMIC ENERGY be pleased to state:- (a) whether there has been serious damage to the Kalpakkam Atomic Power Station due to tsunami; (b) if so, the details in this regard; (c) whether the Government has repaired the property and plant damaged in Kalpakkam; (d) if so, the expenditure incurred thereon; and (e) the steps taken by the Government to save the plant due to such incidents in the future?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER`S OFFICE (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN): (a): No Sir. There was no damage to Madras Atomic Power Station (MAPS) at Kalpakkam in Tamilnadu due to tsunami on 26/12/2004. (b): During the incident, the water level in the MAPS pump house located near the coast also rose along with the rise in sea water level resulting in submergence of a few pump motors. There was no other effect to the station. (c): These pump motors were dried and made functional soon thereafter. Subsequently, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (a PSU of DAE and owner of MAPS) and a

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team of Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) separately carried out detailed inspection of the plant. After clearance of AERB, the unit was restarted within a week of the incident and has been in operation since then. (d): The expenditure has been insignificant and could be included in regular O&M budget of the MAPS. (e) All systems/components and the operator actions have been as per the design. The incident has, in fact, validated the robustness and conservative design of the plant to withstand such incidents. No specific action is therefore needed in this regard. ***********



URANIUM MINING

5887. SHRI BALASHOWRY VALLABBHANENI Will the Minister of ATOMIC ENERGY be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Uranium Corporation of India Limited is set to start mining in the West Khasi Hills soon; and (b) if so, the details thereof

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER`S OFFICE (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN): (a): Yes Sir. Uranium Corporation of India Limited proposes to start mining and milling project at West Khasi Hills Meghalaya, after all approvals and statutory clearances are obtained. (b): Various pre-project activities have been initiated. The Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Management Plan report has been prepared. Site clearance from the Ministry of Environment & Forests has been obtained.

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The NOC from State Pollution Control Board is awaited. Application has been submitted to the Government of Meghalaya for grant of mining lease.

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INCIDENTS OF LEAKAGE OF RADIOACTIVITY

2686. SHRI BRAJESH PATHAK Will the Minister of ATOMIC ENERGY be pleased to state:- (a) the names of the nuclear power stations whose life span is going to expire; (b) the steps taken to avoid impending danger of radioactivity created by these power stations; (c) the names of the nuclear power stations where incidents of leakage of radioactivity occurred during the last three years and till date; (d) whether any study has been made or proposed to be made to determine the impact of radioactivity on the families residing near these stations; (e) if so, the details of finding thereof; and (f) the action taken or proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER`S OFFICE (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN): (a): Nil. Internationally, the economic life of nuclear power stations is 30-40 years. Based on the systematic life assessment studies and life extension measures, the nuclear power plants can be safely operated for another 20-25 years. In India also our experience has been similar. Operation of all plants is subject to licensing by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and review of operation from time to time. (b): Not applicable.

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(c): During the last three years, there has been no incident of leakage or discharge of radioactivity beyond the limits specified by the AERB. (d): Epidemiological surveys to assess the effects of radiation among the employees and their family members who reside near the nuclear power plants have been completed by the Tata Memorial Centre, a premier research institute in India. (e): The above surveys have indicated that the operations of nuclear power plants have no ill effects on health. (f): Not applicable in view of (e) above.

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BIO-DIVERSITY



NON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS INVOLVED IN WILDLIFE

CONSERVATION

3636. SHRI ANANTA NAYAK Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the names of the leading Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) actively involved in conservation of wild animals including tigers in the country during the last five years, State-wise; (b) whether any tiger crisis or monitoring cell has been opened by certain States particularly Orissa involving the Wildlife Wing, Police, leading tiger conservation NGOs, wildlife experts, etc; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIROMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): While the State level compilation of NGOs involved in wildlife conservation is not maintained, this Ministry has information about some Non-Governmental Organisations which are involved in wildlife conservation including tigers: (i) World Wide Fund for Nature-India (ii) Wildlife Protection Society of India (iii) Bombay Natural History Society (iv) Wildlife Trust of India. (b)&(c): A ‘Tiger Cell’ has been formed in some states like Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. However, there is no report regarding formation of a Tiger Crisis or Monitoring Cell in the state of Orissa. ********

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PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES OF FLORA AND FAUNA

3589. SHRI JAI PRAKASH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is considering to take any steps to make suitable arrangements in provisions of World Trade Agreements for protection of endangered species of flora and fauna; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b): Yes, Sir. Necessary steps have been envisaged in the EXIM Policy (2004-2009) to prohibit and restrict the export of endangered species, in conformity with Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) and Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The EXIM Policy 2004-2009 specifies these details. (c): Does not arise. *********


LOK SABHA


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BIODIVERSITY ACT, 2002

6364. SHRI CHANDRABHAN BHAIYA SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether many organisations including the Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), people movements and citizens have criticised the ignorance of people’s participation and serving particular interests in matters relating to environment; (b) if so, the interests underlined by these organisations; (c) whether rules notified under the Biodiversity Act, 2002 weakens the role of local groups in protecting biodiversity and traditional knowledge; (d) if so, whether groups engaged in the environment sector have indicated its shortcomings; (e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) the steps taken by the Government to prohibit clearance of developmental projects without ascertaining the effect on environment and without making assessment in this regard ?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Various organisations and individuals stress for people’s participation in matters relating to environment and the policies and programmes of the Government ensure maximum stakeholders’ involvement in various schemes. The Government has the policy of stakeholders consultation in such matters. (c)to(e): The rules notified under Biodiversity Act, 2002 are in accordance with the Act passed by the Parliament and adequately provide for role of local groups in protecting biodiversity and traditional knowledge. Apprehensions of some groups regarding infirmity in the rules are factually not correct. (f): Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for obtaining prior environmental clearance has been made mandatory for 32 categories of development projects in the sectors of

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industry, thermal power, mining, river valley, infrastructure and nuclear power under the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification 1994 .

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IMPACT OF MINING ON WILDLIFE

6401. SHRI ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY UDAY SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that the tigers in Orissa are facing a fresh threat from the proposed mining of bauxite at Karlapat in the forest rich Kalahandi district as reported in the ‘Pioneer’ dated April 10, 2005; (b) if so, the facts and the details in this regard; and (c) the steps taken by the Government to prevent mining operations in the forests?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The State has informed that a proposal has been received for diversion of 755 ha. of forest land at Langigarh in Kalahandi and Rayagada districts for bauxite mining and alumina project. A portion of the Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary falls within a belt of 20 kms around the project area. A wildlife management scheme for mitigating threats to tigers and other wild animals in the project impact area, comprising of the areas within a radial distance of 20 kms from the project, has been prepared. (c): The mining proposals pertaining to forests are examined under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and only site specific projects are considered on merit. Such projects are also required to take environmental clearance. ******

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SAFETY OF ANIMALS IN ZOOLOGICAL PARKS

5435. SHRI UDAY SINGH ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that animals are not safe inside the Zoological Parks in the country particularly in Delhi as reported in the Hindustan Times dated April 04, 2005; (b) if so, the facts and details thereof; (c) whether Section 38J of the Wildlife Protection Act is grossly violated by the visitors who come to the Zoological Parks; (d) if so, the reasons behind the failure of Zoological Park authorities to check such violations; and (e) the concrete steps taken to ensure proper safety of animals in Zoological Parks particularly in Delhi Zoo?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The zoos in the country are being modernised to ensure well being of the animals as well as their safety. However, as majority of the zoos are displaying animals in open enclosures there may be some freak incidences of vandalism by visitors. (c): No, Sir. (d): Does not arise. (e): It is mandatory under the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 1992 to provide adequate security for ensuring the safety of animals in zoos. Financial assistance is also provided to zoos in the country for strengthening the security fencing around the zoo, providing stand off barriers around animal enclosures, providing warning sign boards as well as for

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installing communication equipments like CCTV and walky-talky sets. *******



AMENDMENT IN WILDLIFE PROTECTION ACT

123. SHRI E. PONNUSWAMY RAMAKRISHNA BADIGA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government plans to amend the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972; (b) if so, the changes likely to be incorporated; (c) the manner in which it is likely to help save extinguishing wildlife species; and (d) the time by which it is likely to be processed and implemented?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)to(c): The amendment in Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is resorted to whenever suitable proposals are received by the Ministry. The Act which was last amended during the year 2002 provides adequate and effective protection to the wildlife in the country. (d): Does not arise. ********

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PROTECTION OF WILDLIFE AND ENVIRONMENT

168. SHRI SURESH KURUP Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government received any letter signed by 40 wildlife and environmental organisations regarding the Government policies in protection of wildlife and environment; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the reaction of the Government thereto?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes, Sir. (b): The major issues highlighted in the letter dated 4.10.2004 are at Annexure. (c): Forest land and wildlife habitat are protected by various laws including the Indian Forest Act, 1927, the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. All cases of diversion and use of forest as well as wildlife habitats for non-forestry purposes are examined by expert committees strictly under the provisions of these laws and the orders of Hon’ble Supreme Court issued from time to time. Rehabilitation measures including compensatory afforestation and restoration of habitats are mandatory provisions while granting clearances for developmental projects after due consideration of its necessity without compromising conservation concerns. ANNEXURE The major issues highlighted by the activitists, NGO’s and others in their letter dated October 4, 2004 are as given below:

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1. Wildlife habitats and populations continue to be under serious threat from ‘development’ projects across India. 2. Several kinds of development projects have been granted clearance despite extremely poor environmental impact assessment, including blatantly plagiarised studies. 3. Several destructive development projects have been allowed inside or immediately bordering Protected Areas. 4. Several clearances have been granted completely ignoring the citizens’ inputs. 5. The National Board for Wildlife and Expert Committees for environmental clearance have been weakened. 6. Compensatory mechanism for clearance of projects cannot be substitute for sound decision making based on comprehensive environmental and social impact assessment. 7. Repeated dilutions of notifications under the Environmental Protection Act have made wildlife habitats and sensitive ecosystems more vulnerable to development pressures. ******



POPULATION OF VULTURES

1239. SHRI SURESH CHANABASAPPA ANGADI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the disappearing population of vultures is set to create environmental problems; (b) if so, whether some State Governments have agreed to start vulture breeding centres; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether the Union Government has asked the other States also to start such vulture breeding centres;

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(e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes, Sir. Vultures play a key ecological role in the Indian sub-continent. (b)&(c): The Government of Haryana has already set up a Vulture Conservation and Breeding Centre at Pinjore. (d)&(e): Setting up of Vulture Care and Breeding Centre in the Range States of vultures has been identified as one of the options under Vulture Conservation Programme. Necessary permission for capture of vultures for the Vulture Conservation and Breeding Centers has been accorded to the States of West Bengal and Himachal Pradesh. (f): Does not arise. **********



WILDIFE REPORT

1053. SHRI MANVENDRA SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the attention of the Union Government has been drawn to a wildlife report

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according to which the migratory birds are going off Delhi due to increasing pollution in Delhi’s water bodies; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the corrective measures taken or proposed to be taken in this regard and also to check water pollution in the country particularly in Delhi?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No, Sir. No such report has been received. (b)&(c): Does not arise. ***********



SETTING UP OF WILDLIFE CRIME CONTROL BUREAU/COURTS

2261. SHRI SURAVARAM SUDHAKAR REDDY C.K. CHANDRAPPAN SANTOSH KUMAR GANGWAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has decided/proposed to set up WildLife Crime Control Bureau/special courts for the protection of wild life; (b) if so, by when it is likely to start functioning; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes, Sir. The Government has decided to set up Wildlife Crime Control Bureau. (b): No specific time frame has been laid down. (c): Does not arise. *********



PROTECTION OF WILD LIFE

3722. SHRI SURESH GANPATRAO WAGMARE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the number of tiger projects and other wildlife projects in Vidarbha region of Maharastra; and (b) the facilities/provisions for wildlife animals therein?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENTAND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): There are three Tiger Reserves, four National Parks and fifteen Wildlife Sanctuaries in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. (b): Financial and technical help is extended to the States under Centrally Sponsored Schemes for enhancing the capacity and infrastructure to provide effective protection and conservation of wild animals.

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BIO-DIVERSITY ACTION PLAN

819 SHRI ADHALRAO PATIL SHIVAJIRAO SHRI RAVI PRAKASH VERMA SHRI ANANDRAO V ADSUL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Union Government has started the process of developing the National Bio-diversity Action Plan; (b) if so, the details thereof; © whether any Non-Government Organization (NGO) has submitted report on national bio-diversity strategy and action plan; (d) if so, details thereof; and. (a) the action taken by the Government in this regard.

Answer MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIAN MEENA) (a)to(c): The Ministry has started the process of developing the National Biodiversity Action Plan. As a first step, work was assigned to two organisations, ‘Kalpavriksh’ and ‘Bio-tech Consortium India Ltd;’ under United Nations Development Programme-Global Environment Facility sponsored project to prepare a project report based on which the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) was to be finalised. Pursuant to the completion of project tenure, the Ministry of Environment and Forests received the draft Project Report as consolidated and prepared by Kalpavriksh. Subsequently, a group of experts was constituted by the Minsitry to scrutinise the draft Report prepared by the Kalpavriksh and rectify the discrepancies and inconsistencies which were noticed in the Report. The report has since been duly corrected by the Group of Experts. This corrected and revised report is going to act as an input for the draft National Action Plan (NAP).

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The first draft of the NAP has been discussed in the Ministry aand the final draft is to be prepared, harmonising it with the provisions of the draft Environment Policy. After approval of the draft National Action Plan within the Ministry, the following actions will be initiated:

• Inter-ministerial consultation on the draft National Action Plan. • Preparation of the Cabinet Note for approval of the Action Plan by the Cabinet. • Release of the National Action Plan

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LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3687 TO BE ANSWERED ON 19.12.2005

PROTECTION OF TIGER

3687. SHRI NAVJOT SINGH SIDHU Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government proposes to amend the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 to

ensure protection of tiger; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether a statutory body i.e. National Tiger Conservation Authority in also being

set up; and (d) if so, its role and other details of its sphere of work?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A RAJA) (a)to(d): The Tiger Task Force constituted as per the recommendations of the National

Board for Wildlife has, interalia, suggested amendments to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and giving statutory authority to Project Tiger. These urgent recommendations have been accepted and action has been taken for their

283

implementation including setting up of a National Tiger Conservation Authority under the Act.

**********




819. SHRI ADHALRAO PATIL SHIVAJIRAO

SHRI RAVI PRAKASH VERMA SHRI ANANDRAO V. ADSUL

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Union Government has started the process of developing the national

bio-diversity action plan; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether any Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) has submitted report on

national bio-diversity strategy and action plan; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the action taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIAN MEENA) (a) to (e): The Ministry has started the process of developing the National Biodiversity

Action Plan. As a first step, work was assigned to two organisations, ‘Kalpavriksh’ and ‘Bio-tech Consortium India Ltd.,’ under a United Nations Development Programme – Global Environment Facility sponsored project to prepare a project report based on which the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) was to be finalised. Pursuant to the completion of project tenure, the Ministry of Environment and Forests received the draft Project Report

284

as consolidated and prepared by Kalpavriksh. Subsequently, a group of experts was constituted by the Ministry to scrutinise the draft Report prepared by the Kalpavriksh and rectify the discrepancies and inconsistencies which were noticed in the Report. The report has since been duly corrected by the Group of Experts. The corrected and revised report is going to act as an input for the draft National Action Plan (NAP). The first draft of the NAP has been discussed in the Ministry and the final draft is to be prepared, harmonizing it with the provisions of the draft Environment Policy. After approval of the draft National Action Plan within the Ministry, the following actions will be initiated: • Inter-ministerial consultation on the draft National Action Plan; • Preparation of the Cabinet Note for approval of the Action Plan by the

Cabinet; • Release of the National Action Plan

**********



TASK FORCE REPORT ON TIGER RESERVES

852. SHRI SURESH KURUP Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the salient points of the report submitted to the Prime Minister by the Task Force

constituted to review the management of Tiger Reserves in the country; (b) the immediate and long term action plans suggested by the task force; and (c) the plans of the Government to protect the tiger keeping in view the Indian

environment where forests are not only wilderness but also the habitats of people?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The key recommendations of the Tiger Task Force Report are as below:.

285

(i) Reinvigorate the institutions of governance. (ii) Strengthen efforts geared towards protection of the tiger, checking

poaching, convicting wildlife criminals and breaking the international trade network.

(iii) Expand the inviolate spaces for the tiger by minimising human pressure in these areas.

(iv) Repair the relationships with the people who share the tiger’s habitat by building strategies for coexistence.

(v) Regenerate the forest habitats in the fringes of the tiger’s protective enclaves by investing in forest, water and grassland economies of the people.

(b): The urgent actions (including long-term) recommended by Tiger Task Force

which have been accepted for implementation are at Annexure-I. (c) Eco-development for the benefit of local people living in and around tiger

reserves and other protected areas, has been included in Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) of ‘Project Tiger’ as well as ‘Development of National Parks and Sanctuaries’ to elicit support for wildlife conservation.

ANNESXURE-I

Action has been taken on the following urgent recommendations of the Task Force which were accepted for implementation:

1. Request the Prime Minister to head the Steering of Project Tiger for a period of 2-3 years.

2. The Project Tiger Directorate to be converted into a statutory authority under the Ministry of Environment & Forests. This will give it greater autonomy and ability to coordinate with state governments.

3. The Wildlife Crime Bureau to be created immediately under the Ministry of Environment & Forests.

4. The next census (planned for November) of tigers and habitat to be done using the new methodology, suggested by Ministry of Environment & Forests and endorsed by the Tiger Task Force. Independent audit report also to be presented to Parliament in 6 months, which will rate state performance on different criteria.

5. The plan for relocation of villages from key tiger habitats to be finalised within one year, with its financial and logistical implications and completed with 2-3 years.

6. The plan for coexistence to be prepared by each tiger reserve within one year so that benefits of conservation can be shared with local communities.

7. The benefits of tourism to be shared with local communities using the recommendations of the Task Force.

********************

286



REVIEW OF IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATION OF TIGER TASK

FORCE 851. SHRI BRAJA KISHORE TRIPATHY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government has reviewed the implementation of the

recommendations of Tiger Task Force; (b) if so, the details in this regard; (c) whether any lacunae has been found out in the implementation process; (d) if so, the corrective steps taken/proposed in this regard; and (e) the progress in respect of setting up of wildlife crime control bureau?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Yes, Sir. Action has been initiated on seven urgent recommendations of

Tiger Task Force, which have been accepted for implementation. (c): No, Sir. (d): Does not arise. (e): Action has been taken for setting up a multi-disciplinary Wildlife Crime Control

Bureau in the Ministry of Environment & Forests.

*********************

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BIO-DIVERSITY PROJECT

1679. SHRI HITEN BARMAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether a co-ordinated project on coastal and marine bio-diversity was launched

during 1999-2000; (b) if so, the objective thereof; (c) the current status of its implementation, particularly in regard to the conservation

of mangroves, coral reefs and other marine lives in the coastal zone; (d) whether the Government had issued a Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ)

Notification in 1991 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; (e) if so, the salient objectives envisaged therein; (f) whether any review of the status of its implementation has been carried out; and (g) if so, the details thereof, State and Union Territory-wise?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Yes Sir. The three basic objectives are, namely, survey and inventorisation of

marine flora and fauna, training and capacity building and establishment of the database network.

(c): So far 21 projects have been assisted in the field of coastal and marine

biodiversity with emphasis on survey and inventorisation, training and capacity building in the area of marine taxonomy and development of databases on living marine organisms. Over 100 researchers and officers of the Coastal States have been trained in the taxonomy of marine flora and fauna, snorkeling, scuba diving and coral bio-monitoring methodologies. The research, conservation and management of mangroves and coral reefs are also supported under Schemes specially designed to promote conservation of these two marine resources.

(d)&(e): Yes, Sir. The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 1991, declares

coastal stretches of seas, bays, estuaries, creeks, rivers and backwaters, which are influenced by tidal action (in the landward side) up to 500 meters from the High Tide Line (HTL) and the land between the Low Tide Line (LTL) and the High

288

Tide Line as coastal Regulation Zone. The objective of the said Notification is to conserve and protect the Coastal Regulation Zone.

(f)&(g): There has been no formal or structured review of the status of implementation of

the CRZ Notification as such. The provisions of the Notification are enforced through State Coastal Zone Management Authorities and other State level agencies concerned.

************

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3687 TO BE ANSWERED ON 19.12.2005

PROTECTION OF TIGER

3687. SHRI NAVJOT SINGH SIDHU Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government proposes to amend the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 to ensure protection of tiger; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether a statutory body i.e. National Tiger Conservation Authority in also being

set up; and (d) if so, its role and other details of its sphere of work?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A RAJA) (a)to(d): The Tiger Task Force constituted as per the recommendations of the National

Board for Wildlife has, inter alia, suggested amendments to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and giving statutory authority to Project Tiger. These urgent recommendations have been accepted and action has been taken for their implementation including setting up of a National Tiger Conservation Authority under the Act.

*****************

289




819. SHRI ADHALRAO PATIL SHIVAJIRAO:

SHRI RAVI PRAKASH VERMA: SHRI ANANDRAO V. ADSUL:

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Union Government has started the process of developing the National Bio-

diversity Action Plan; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether any Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) has submitted report on

National Bio-Diversity Strategy and Action Plan; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the action taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIAN MEENA) (a) to (e): The Ministry has started the process of developing the National Biodiversity

Action Plan. As a first step, work was assigned to two organisations, Kalpavriksh and Bio-tech Consortium India Ltd., under a United Nations Development Programme – Global Environment Facility sponsored project to prepare a project report based on which the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) was to be finalised. Pursuant to the completion of project tenure, the Ministry of Environment and Forests received the draft Project Report as consolidated and prepared by Kalpavriksh. Subsequently, a group of experts was constituted by the Ministry to scrutinise the draft Report prepared by the Kalpavriksh and rectify the discrepancies and inconsistencies which were noticed in the Report. The report has since been duly corrected by the Group of Experts. The corrected and revised report is going to act as an input for the draft National

290

Action Plan (NAP). The first draft of the NAP has been discussed in the Ministry and the final draft is to be prepared, harmonising it with the provisions of the draft Environment Policy. After approval of the draft National Action Plan within the Ministry, the following actions will be initiated:

• Inter-ministerial consultation on the draft National Action Plan; • Preparation of the Cabinet Note for approval of the Action Plan by the

Cabinet; • Release of the National Action Plan.

************



TASK FORCE REPORT ON TIGER RESERVES

852. SHRI SURESH KURUP Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the salient points of the report submitted to the Prime Minister by the Task Force constituted to review the management of Tiger Reserves in the country; (b) the immediate- and long-term action plans suggested by the Task Force; and (c) the plans of the Government to protect the tiger keeping in view the Indian

environment where forests are not only wilderness but also the habitats of people?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The key recommendations of the Tiger Task Force Report are as below:-

- Reinvigorate the institutions of governance. - Strengthen efforts geared towards protection of the tiger, checking poaching, convicting wildlife criminals and breaking the international trade network. - Expand the inviolate spaces for the tiger by minimising human pressure in these areas.

291

- Repair the relationships with the people who share the tiger’s habitat by building strategies for coexistence. - Regenerate the forest habitats in the fringes of the tiger’s protective enclaves by investing in forest, water and grassland economies of the people.

(b): The urgent actions (including long-term) recommended by Tiger Task Force which have been accepted for implementation are at Annexure-I.

(c): Eco-development for the benefit of local people living in and around tiger reserves and other protected areas has been included in Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Project Tiger’ as well as ‘Development of National Parks and Sanctuaries’ to elicit support for wildlife conservation.

ANNEXURE-I Action has been taken on the following urgent recommendations of the Task Force which were accepted for implementation:

8. Request the Prime Minister to head the Steering of Project Tiger for a period of 2-3 years.

9. The Project Tiger Directorate to be converted into a statutory authority under the Ministry of Environment & Forests. This will give it greater autonomy and ability to coordinate with state governments.

10. The Wildlife Crime Bureau to be created immediately under the Ministry of Environment & Forests.

11. The next census (planned for November) of tigers and habitat to be done using the new methodology, suggested by Ministry of Environment & Forests and endorsed by the Tiger Task Force. Independent audit report also to be presented to Parliament in 6 months, which will rate state performance on different criteria.

12. The plan for relocation of villages from key tiger habitats to be finalised within one year, with its financial and logistical implications and to be completed within 2-3 years.

13. The plan for coexistence to be prepared by each tiger reserve within one year so that benefits of conservation can be shared with local communities.

14. The benefits of tourism to be shared with local communities using the recommendations of the Task Force.

********************

292



REVIEW OF IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATION OF TIGER TASK

FORCE 851. SHRI BRAJA KISHORE TRIPATHY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Government has reviewed the implementation of the recommendations of Tiger Task Force; (b) if so, the details in this regard; (c) whether any lacunae has been found out in the implementation process; (d) if so, the corrective steps taken/proposed in this regard; and (e) the progress in respect of setting up of Wildlife Crime Control Bureau?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Yes Sir. Action has been initiated on seven urgent recommendations of

Tiger Task Force which have been accepted for implementation. (c): No, Sir.

(d): Does not arise.

(e): Action has been taken for setting up a multidisciplinary Wildlife Crime Control Bureau in the Ministry of Environment & Forests.

*************

293



BIO-DIVERSITY PROJECT

1679. SHRI HITEN BARMAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether a co-ordinated project on coastal and marine bio-diversity was launched during 1999-2000; (b) if so, the objective thereof; (c) the current status of its implementation, particularly in regard to the conservation

of mangroves, coral reefs and other marine lives in the coastal zone; (d) whether the Government had issued a Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ)

Notification in 1991 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; (e) if so, the salient objectives envisaged therein; (f) whether any review of the status of its implementation has been carried out; and (g) if so, the details thereof, State and Union Territory-wise?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Yes Sir. The three basic objectives are, namely, survey and inventorisation of

marine flora and fauna, training and capacity building and establishment of the database network.

(c): So far 21 projects have been assisted in the field of coastal and marine bio-

diversity with emphasis on survey and inventorisation, training and capacity building in the area of marine taxonomy and development of database on living marine organisms. Over 100 researchers and officers of the coastal States have been trained in the taxonomy of marine flora and fauna, snorkeling, scuba diving and coral bio-monitoring methodologies. The research, conservation and management of mangroves and coral reefs are also supported under Schemes specially designed to promote conservation of these two marine resources.

(d)&(e): Yes, Sir. The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 1991, declares

coastal stretches of seas, bays, estuaries, creeks, rivers and backwaters, which are influenced by tidal action (in the landward side) up to 500 meters from the High Tide Line (HTL) and the land between the Low Tide Line (LTL) and the High

294

Tide Line as Coastal Regulation Zone. The objective of the said Notification is to conserve and protect the CRZ.

(f)&(g): There has been no formal or structured review of the status of implementation of

the CRZ Notification as such. The provisions of the Notification are enforced through State Coastal Zone Management Authorities and other State level agencies concerned.

*************.

295

BIO-MEDICAL WASTE



DISPOSAL OF IMMUNISATION WASTE BY HOSPITALS

156. SHRI MOHAN RAWALE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that immunisation wastes are not properly disposed of and they are reported to be recycled and reused in various hospitals in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether burning of immunisation wastes results in emission of deadly gases which are harmful to human health and environment; (d) if so, whether the Government has proposed any new technology for disposing of immunisation wastes; (e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORSTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): There are no reports of improper disposal of immunisation wastes brought to the notice of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Ministry of Environment & Forests. Immunisation waste is also bio-medical waste which requires proper treatment and disposal as per the provisions of the Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1998. (c)to(f): Burning of syringes generated during immunisation is not permitted under the Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1998, as it may result in emission

296

of harmful pollutants. The stipulated method of disposal of these wastes is disinfection by chemical treatment/autoclaving/microwaving and mutilation/shredding as per Schedule-I of the BMW Rules. Standards for autoclaving and microwaving are stipulated in the Schedule-V of the BMW Rules. *******



SEGREGATION OF BIO-MEDICAL WASTE

1793 SHRI CHANDRA BHUSHAN SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORETS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has instructed all State Pollution Control Board (SPCBs) to make the segregation of mercury contaminated bio-waste a condition for granting authorisation to the healthcare centres;

(b) if so, the details thereof; © whether the Government is considering to set up any institute for reduction of dioxins and mercury; and

(c) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

(a) & (b): The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has instructed all State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) of Union Territories to give proper attention to mercury spillages in healthcare facilities in respect of collection of the spilled mercury, its storage and sending the same back to the manufacturer and also for taking all other necessary measures to ensure that the spilled mercury does not become part of bio-medical or other solid waste generated from the healthcare facilities.

Further, as indicated in Schedule II to the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended, any waste containing equal to or greater than 50mg/kg of mercury is a hazardous waste and the concerned generators of such wastes including healthcare facilities, are required to dispose of the same as per the provisions of the said Rules. The SPCBs /PCCs have also been requested to bring this requirement to the notice of the healthcare facilities and also ensure incorporation of

297

an appropriate condition to this effect in the authorisation to be granted to them under the Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling ) Rules, 1998.

© There is no proposal of setting up of an institute for reduction of dioxins and mercury.

(B) Does not arise. *****



USE OF UNSAFE SYRINGES

137. SHRI KAILASH MEGHWAL Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether as per a report prepared by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), 73 per cent of syringes being used for vaccination programme in the country are unsafe; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Government proposes to make use of AD syringes for the said programme mandatory; and (d) if so, the details of additional expenditure likely to be incurred thereon as a result of it?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINITRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI ) (a) & (b): Findings of the study, conducted by India Clinical Epidemiological Network, indicate that immunisation accounts for 17.5 per cent of total injections and 74 per cent of this are unsafe because of predominant use of glass syringes. Half of 74 per cent is due to:

298

(i) Use of un-sterilised syringes and reuse of syringes and other half due to wrong injection practices namely (a) flushing syringes needle before use (b) wiping the needle (c) touching the needle surface (d) syringe and needle used on more than one patient (e) picking of glass syringe and needle from boiler by hand (f) multi dose vial not wiped clean before drawing (g) injection site not cleaned (h) recapping needle and (i) not flushing glass syringe after use before re-sterilisation. (c) The Government of India has introduced Auto Disable (AD) syringes for administering injections under Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) from the year 2005-06. Use of AD Syringes is not mandatory. (d) The total annual expenditure on AD syringes works out to be Rs. 113.30 crores (approx.) *********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE


FACILITIES FOR WASTE MANAGEMENT

1264. SHRI P.C. THOMAS: Will the MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government is aware of the death of a doctor and several persons connected with Medical College, Koyyayam, due to Hepatitis and other diseases due to environmental hazards; (b) if so, whether the Government has received any proposal of assistance from the

Government of Kerala or Medical College, Kottayam district, regarding facilities for waste management;

(c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the decision of the Government thereon?

299

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): The Central Government has not received any such report from Government of

Kerala. (b): No, Sir

(c)&(d): Does not arise.

********************

300

CHEMICALS




BAN ON PLASTIC BAGS

506. SHRI PAWAN KUMAR BANSAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether a chemical has been developed which if mixed with plastic, makes it degradable; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether any steps are afoot to replace the non-degradable plastic bags by the ones which could be degraded by living organism, heat, light, radiation or combination of these factors; and (d) if so, by when plastic bags would be completely banned and replaced by degradable bags?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Plastic materials can be made degradable by the addition of specific additives and starch. Some of the biodegradable plastic materials under development are (1) PHA’s (Polyhydroxyalkonates) (2) Polylactides (3) Aliphatic polyesters (4) Polysaccharides (5) Co-polymers and/or blends of the above. (c)&(d): Research and Development are underway in National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, National Chemical Laboratory, Pune and Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Trivandrum to develop degradable plastics. All the technologies are at the innovative stage and are yet to be available on a commercial scale indigenously. Banning or replacement of non-degradable plastic bags can be considered when commercially viable technologies are available.

301

As per available information made available, steps have been taken only by the Delhi Government to introduce the use of degradable plastic bags within the NCT of Delhi by an amendment to the Delhi Plastic bags (Manufacture, Sale and Usage and Non-biodegradable Garbage Control) Act 2001, in December 2004. The amendments of 2004 are yet to come into force. ******



HEALTH HAZARDS DUE TO USE OF MERCURY IN INDUSTRIES

4416. SHRI SURESH PRABHAKAR PRABHU Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether any steps have been taken to identify and assess the environmental health hazards posed by emissions of mercury from industries using mercury as one of the raw materials; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a)&(b): Mercury emissions from industries may pose environmental health risk. The measures taken to control mercury emissions include the following: i) Standards for emissions of mercury firom caustic soda industries, based on mercury cell process, have been notified under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. ii) Commissioning of new plants and expansion of existing mercury cell based caustic soda plants are not allowed. iii) Hazardous Waste Management Rules have been notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to deal with sludge containing mercury under which generator of

302

the waste is required to take authorisation from the respective State Pollution Control Boards. iv) Guidelines have been evolved on ‘Criteria for Disposal of Hazardous Waste’ which include treatment of mercury bearing brine sludge to the specified standard before disposal to secured landfill. v) Mercury bearing wastes are prohibited for import and export under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. vi) Mercury emission standards for work-zone environment have been notified under the Factories Act, 1988 including health check up of workers. vii) Action points under Corporate Responsibility for Environmental Protection (CREP) have been formulated to limit the emissions/discharge of mercury from chlor-alkali industries and phasing out of plants based on mercury cell process by changing over to membrane cell technology. (c): Does not arise.

********




PRODUCTION OF PLASTIC

79. DR. RAJESH KUMAR MISHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the production and use of plastic is harmful to the environment and health; (b) if so, whether plastic bags make fertile land infertile; and (c) if so, the details of steps being taken by the Government to stop the production and use of plastic?

303

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Plastics (Polymers) are petroleum-products having long-chain of hydrocarbon. They are chemically inert or neutral and used for the manufacture of a large number of consumer items and they can be recycled. Plastics by themselves are not harmful. Only the indiscriminate littering of plastics and environmentally unsound recycling practices has the potential to cause adverse impacts on environment and health. (c): To prohibit the use of recycled plastic in packaging of foodstuffs and to encourage proper waste collection the Government has brought out the Recycled Plastics Manufacture and Usage Rules, 1999 amended 2003. As per these rules, the use of recycled plastic bags is prohibited for storing, carrying, dispensing, or packaging of foodstuffs. Also these rules prohibit the manufacture, stocking, distribution or selling of carry bags made of virgin/ recycled plastics, which are below 8 x 12 inches in size and 20 microns in thickness. *********



DEADLY DISEASE IN CHILDREN DUE TO TOYS

4211. SHRI RAOSAHEB PATIL DANVE Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that small children are likely to contract a disease like cancer by putting P.V.C. toys in their mouth; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Government has investigated the matter; (d) if so, the details and the outcome thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

304

ANSWER MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (DR.ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a) to (e): Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is used to produce plastic materials having wide applications in the building sector, packaging, electrical appliances, medical care, agriculture, the automotive industry and toys. As per WHO study, there is evidence that exposure to vinyl chloride causes cancer in humans. However, the report identifies inhalation as the main route for the occupational exposure, which occurs primarily in plants producing vinyl chloride and PVC. The same report calls for measures to minimise emissions at production sites and sanitary landfills and to ensure low residual levels in PVC. However, there is no evidence which suggest contracting of cancer by putting PVC toys in mouth.

**********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILISERS


FERTILISER PLANTS

5408. SMT KALPANA RAMESH NARHIRE Will the Minister of CHEMICALS AND FERTILISERS be pleased to state:- (a) the details and locations of the fertiliser plants recognised by the Government at present, State-wise; (b) whether chemical fertilisers are being produced in said plants as well as which have not been recognised by the Government. (c) if so, whether the Government proposes to recognise them; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

305

ANSWER MINISTER OF CHEMICALS & FERTILISERS AND MINISTER OF STEEL (SHRI RAM VILAS PASWAN) (a): State-wise details and location of major fertilisers plants recognised by the Government at present is Annexed. (b): No, sir. (c) & (d): Question does not arise. ANNEXURE State-wise details and location of major fertiliser plants recognised by the Government Sl. No. Name of Plant with location Name of States 1 Brahmaputra Valley Fertilisers Corporation Ltd.(BVFCL): Namrup III, Assam 2 National Fertilisers Limited(NFL):Nagal-II, Punjab 3 NFL:Bhantinda 4 Madras Fertilisers Limited(MFL), Chennai, Tamil Nadu 5 Southern Petrochemicals Industries Corporation (SPIC):Tuticorin 6 Coromandal Fertilisers Ltd.(CFL):Ennore 7 Tuticorin Alkali Chemicals & Fertilisers Ltd.(TAC):Tuticorin 8 Fertilisers and Chemicals Travancore Ltd.(FACT):Udyogamandal, Kerala 9 FACT:Cochin-II 10 Zuari Industries Ltd.(ZIL):Goa 11 Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilisers Ltd. (RCF):Trombay,

Maharasthra 12 RCF:Trombay-IV 13 RCF:Trombay-V# 14 RCF:Thal 15 Deepak Fertilisers & Petrochemicals Corporation Ltd.(DFPCL):Taloja 16 Manglore Chemicals & Fertilisers Ltd.(MCF):Mangalore, Karnataka 17 NFL:Vijaipur, Madhya Pradesh 18 NFL:Vijay Expn.

306

19 Chambal Fertlizers and Chemicals Ltd.(CFCL):Gadepan-I, Rajasthan 20 CFCL:Gadepan-II 21 Shriram Fertilisers & Chemicals(SFC):Kota 22 Indian Farmers Fertilisers Cooperative Limited(IFFCO):Kandla Gujarat 23 IFFCO:Kalol 24 Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited(KRIBHCO):Hazira 25 Gujarat State Fertilisers & Chemicals Ltd.(GSFC):Vadodara 26 GSFC:Sikka-I 27 GSFC:Sikka-II 28 Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilisers Co. Ltd.(GNFC):Bharuch 29 Hindalco Ind. Ltd.:Dahej 30 Coromandal Fertilisers Ltd.(CFL):Vizag, Andhra Pradesh 31 Godavari Fertilisers and Chemicals Ltd.(GFCL):Kakinada, 32 32 Nagarjuna Fertilisers and Chemmicals Ltd.(NFCL):Kakinada-I 33 NFCL:Kakinada-II 34 IFFCO:Phulpur-I, Uttar Pradesh 35 IFFCO:Phulpur-II 36 IFFCO:Aonla-I 37 IFFCO:Aonla-II 38 Duncans Industries Ltd.(DIL):Kanpur# 39 Indo Gulf Fertilisers Ltd.(IGFL):Jadishpur 40 Tata Chemicals Ltd.(TCL):Babrala 41 OCF:Shahjahanpur 42 NFL:Panipat, Harayana 43 Oswal Chemicals & Fertilisers Ltd.(OCF):Paradeep, Orrisa 44 Paradeep Phosphates Ltd.(PPL):Paradeep 45 Tata Chemicals Ltd.(TCL):Haldia, West Bengal

• #Production temporarily suspended. ********



USE OF CHEMICAL FERTILISER AND PESTICIDES

307

1661. SHRI D.V. SADANANDA GOWDA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government proposes to minimise the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides; and (b) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) & (b): The average consumption of chemical fertilisers and pesticides (technical grade) are 89.8 kg/ha and 0.22 kg/ha respectively. This level of consumption is not considered to have ill-effect on agriculture. However, the Government is advocating Ìntegrated Nutrient Management` (INM) by promoting soil test based balanced and judicious use of chemical fertilisers in conjunction with organic manures, bio-fertilisers, etc. and also Integrated Pest Management (IPM) providing mechanical, biological control methods and need based use of pesticides. Government is also advocating organic farming by using organic inputs for plant nutrients.



USE OF ENDOSULPHAN

1637. SHRI P. KARUNAKARAN Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has realised the use of deadly pesticides like endosulphan is harmful to human life as well as environment in many parts of the country; (b) if so, whether the Government has received any representation in this regard; and (c) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

308

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA) (a) to (c): The Government of India had received a number of representations regarding unusual effects in certain villages of Kerala allegedly associated with aerial spray of endosulfan in cashew plantations. The National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH) has reported higher prevalence if usual diseases like mental retardation, congenital defects and abnormalities of re-productive system in children in the affected villages of Kasargod district of Kerala. However, the Expert Group constituted under the Chairmanship of Dr. O.P. Dubey, Assistant Director General (Plant Protection), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), to assess the safety of endosulfan has observed that there is no link established between use of endosulfan in Corporation of Kerala (PCK) plantations and health problems reported in Padre village. Another Committee of Experts constituted by the Government of Kerala under the Chairmanship of Dr. P.K. Sivaraman, Additional Director of Health Services, Kerala has stated that it could not find any reason other than endosulfan spraying to explain the reported health hazards. However, endosulfan is currently in use in more than 60 countries. Various scientific reports published in India, as also by WHO and other countries recommend use of endosulfan in agriculture and state that endosulfan does not adversely affect environment and health as it degrades rapidly after use and is thus not persistent in the environment. Further, ICAR has reported the unique role of endosulfan in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and in Insecticide Resistance Management (IRM) in a variety of crops. In view of the lack of consensus amongst various experts on this issue which may have serious implications on public health, the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation decided to revisit the issues pertaining to the safety of endosulfan. Thus a Committee was constituted under the Chairmanship of Dr. C.D. Mayee, the then Agriculture Commissioner, Government of India vide order dated 6.09.2004 to review the safety of endosulfan. The Expert Group made the following recommendations: - (1) There is no link established between use of endosulfan in PCK plantations and health problems reported in Padre Village. (2) Aerial spraying of pesticides may be allowed in case of national exigencies after permission of the Central Insecticides Board. (3) The application of all pesticides including endosulfan is to be done adhering to regulatory stipulations in force from time to time. (4) The pesticides manufacturers should take necessary steps to promote and educate

309

sellers and users to ensure correct and safe use of all pesticides. (5) Since India has adequate pre-registration data requirement and post-registration review processes concerning use of pesticides, the Committee recommended that science based responses be made available to all stake holders and general public by registration authorities. There is often a huge gap between perception of the risk and actual scientific risk assessment. This gap is to be filled by proper and timely propagation of knowledge and information. (6) The Committee also recommended to conduct a comprehensive, well designed and detailed health and epidemiological study in the entire cashew plantation areas of Kerala to ascertain the incidences of diseases in Padre vis-à-vis other relevant locations in Kerala State to investigate and if possible pin-point the probable factors that are responsible for alleged health problems at Padre. (7) Use of endosulfan is not clearly linked to the alleged health problems in Kasargod district of Kerala. However, considering the apprehensions in the minds of the public in Kerala, the Committee recommended that it would be better if use of endosulfan is kept on hold in Kerala. (8) Finally, after considering all above factors and available reports, the Committee recommended that use of endosulfan be continued as per provisions of the Insecticides Act, 1968. As per Section 27(2) of the Insecticides Act, 1968, the report of the Expert Group was referred to the Registration Committee constituted under Section 5 of the Insecticides Act, 1968 for its comments. The Registration Committee endorsed the recommendations of the Expert Group. The report of the Expert Group along with the recommendations of the Registration Committee thereon has been considered by the Government of India and it has been decided to refer the recommendation no. 7 to the Inter-ministerial Committee of the Government of India constituted to review the use of Insecticides and Hazardous Chemicals to recommend the final decision thereon. The other recommendations of the Committee have been accepted. Further, with a view to check the indiscriminate and injudicious use of hazardous chemical pesticides, the Government has adopted Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as the cardinal principle and main plank of plant protection in the country. 26 Central Integrated Pest Management Centres (CIPMCs) in 22 States and 1 Union Territory are engaged in pest/disease survey, surveillance and monitoring and training of farmers in IPM. *********

310


DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICALS AND PETROCHEMICALS LOK SABHA


UNSAFE REPACKING OF CHEMICAL WASTE INSIDE UNION CARBIDE

FACTORY 1880. SHRI VIRENDRA KUMAR Will the Minister of CHEMICALS AND FERTILISERS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government is aware of the incidents of unsafe repacking of chemical

waste inside the Union Carbide Factory of Bhopal by Ramky Enviro Engineers Limited, Hyderabad;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and; (c) the steps taken to stop such unscientific and unsafe repacking of chemical waste

there? ANSWER

MINISTER OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILIZERS & MINISTER OF STEEL (SHRI RAM VILAS PASWAN) (a)to(c): The High Court of Madhya Pradesh while hearing the Writ Petition No. 2802 /

2004 has constituted a Task Force under the chairmanship of the Secretary, Deopartment of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, to monitor the implementation of the road map prepared by the Government of Madhya Pradesh for removal/disposal of toxic wastes lying at the Union Carbide plant site. The agency engaged, viz. M/s Ramky Enviro Engineering Limited, Hyderabad has carried out the work of repacking the stored toxic wastes in a scientific manner under the overall monitoring of the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board. As inimated by the State Pollution Control Board of Madhya Pradesh, the company had taken all safety precautions during the execution of the entire job of repacking of toxic wastes, carried out from June 16-20, 2005. Air monitoring was also carried out during the repacking work and no pesticides were detected in the collected dust. The waste is now safely stored in a shed within the plant premises. A complaint regarding unsafe repacking methods from ‘The International Campaign for Justice in Bhopal’ was received by this Department on June 2, 2005 and referred to the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board, who have categorically denied the veracity of the allegations made.

*********

311


DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICALS AND PETROCHEMICALS LOK SABHA


UNSAFE REPACKING OF CHEMICAL WASTE INSIDE UNION CARBIDE

FACTORY 1880. SHRI VIRENDRA KUMAR Will the Minister of CHEMICALS AND FERTILISERS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Government is aware of the incidents of unsafe repacking of chemical waste inside the Union Carbide Factory of Bhopal by Ramky Enviro Engineers Limited, Hyderabad; (b) if so, the details thereof; and; (c) the steps taken to stop such unscientific and unsafe repacking of chemical waste

there?

ANSWER MINISTER OF CHEMICALS AND FERTILISERS & MINISTER OF STEEL (SHRI RAM VILAS PASWAN) (a) to (c): The High Court of Madhya Pradesh while hearing the Writ Petition No. 2802/

2004 has constituted a Task Force under the chairmanship of the Secretary, Deopartment of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, to monitor the implementation of the road map prepared by the Government of Madhya Pradesh for removal/disposal of toxic wastes lying at the Union Carbide Plant site. The agency engaged, viz. M/s Ramky Enviro Engineering Limited, Hyderabad has carried out the work of repacking the stored toxic wastes in a scientific manner under the overall monitoring of the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board. As intimated by the State Pollution Control Board of Madhya Pradesh, the company had taken all safety precautions during the execution of the entire job of repacking of toxic wastes, carried out from 16th June to 20th June, 2005. Air monitoring was also carried out during the repacking work and no pesticides were detected in the collected dust. The waste is now safely stored in a shed within the plant premises. A complaint regarding unsafe repacking methods from ‘The International Campaign for Justice in Bhopal’ was received by this Department on 2nd June, 2005 and referred to the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board, who have categorically denied the veracity of the allegations made.

**************

312



BENEFITS OF FLY ASH

2838. SHRI BALASHOWRY VALLABHANENI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the benefits of fly ash; (b) the extent to which it helps clean the environment; and (c) the steps proposed/taken to put fly ash to proper use?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): If fly ash is left as such it will cause air pollution. If it is disposed on land

by way of ash pond it occupies huge area of land and also uses large quantity of water. By utilising fly ash we can prevent air and water pollution and release the land being used up in ash pond construction. By using fly ash the environment would not only be clean but also there are benefits. The use of fly ash in the manufacture of clay bricks and in road construction reduce the consumption of soil which is required for maintaining our agricultural productivity and food security. It is used in the cement manufacture thus helping in the reduction of consumption of limestone. By using fly ash in agriculture some of the micronutrients are provided to the crops.

(c): A number of steps have been taken by Government of India to put fly ash

to proper use. To cite a few, the Government of India, Ministry of Environment and Forests has already brought out legislation for conservation of soil and prevention of disposal of fly ash on land. Besides this, Bureau of Indian Standards has brought out standards for about 50 fly ash products. The Indian Road Congress has brought out specifications

313

for construction of National Highways and Rural Roads which permits the use of fly ash in road construction. The Central and State Government and their agencies have included fly ash/fly ash products in their specifications, schedule of rates and tender documents.

**************

314

EIA AND ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR LEASE TO KUDREMIKH IRON ORE

LTD.

1500. SHRI SUNIL KHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether any request regarding grant of lease to Kudremukh Iron Ore Limited is pending with the Government for environmental clearance; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefore; and (c) the steps taken to remedy the situation?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No proposal for grant of environmental and/or forestry clearance to Kudremukh Iron Ore Limited for mining is pending with Ministry of Environment and Forests. (b) & (c): Does not arise. ******

315




ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR SETTING UP OF INDUSTRIES

324. SHRI JUAL ORAM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether environmental clearance is required to set up industries/plants in the country; (b) if so, the number of such cases cleared during the last three years, State-wise; (c) whether the Union Government is aware that air and water pollution effects have not been examined adequately in respect of some States like Orissa, Jharkhand and Chhatisgarh while giving environmental clearance; (d) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefore; (e) the rationale behind occurrence of high incidents of air and water pollution in these States; and (f) the action taken by the Union Government in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) & (b): As per the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 1994, 23 categories of industries out of 32 developmental activities listed in Schedule-I are required to seek environmental clearance for the new and expansion of projects. The number of industrial projects cleared from January 1, 2002 to March 31, 2005 State-wise is given below:

S.No Name of State

No of industrial projects cleared

1

Andhra Pradesh 32

Assam 04

316

2 3 Chhatisgarh 07 4 Gujarat 109 5 Haryana

20

6 Himachal

02

7 Jharkhand

02

8 Karnataka

17

9 Madhya Pradesh

03

10 Maharashtra

55

11 Orissa

08

12 Others

49

13 Punjab

16

14 Rajastan

13

15 Tamil Nadu

113

16 Uttar Pradesh

13

17 Uttaranchal

01

18 West Bengal

18

Total

482

(c) & (d): While appraising the industrial projects for environmental clearance to be set up in different States including Orissa, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, impacts of all environmental aspects including effects of air and water pollution are duly examined and accordingly mitigative measures are stipulated under specific conditions in the environmental clearance letters issued to all such units. The stipulated clearance conditions are monitored regularly by the Regional Offices of the Ministry of Environment & Forests.

(e): The high incidence of air and water pollution in various States could be attributed to the following factors:

317

- Installation of inadequate pollution control facilities; - Non-compliance of environmental emission and effluent norms; - Poor operation and maintenance of pollution control devices; - Increased contribution of pollution from small-scale industries; - Natural meteorological conditions and re-suspension of dust leading to higher

Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) and Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) values;

- Inefficient Common Effluent Treatment Plants and Sewage Treatment Plants. (f): The actions taken by the Government for abatement of pollution include the following:

• Environmental Impact Assessment has been made mandatory for 32 categories of developmental project;

• Enforcement of prescribed environmental emission and effluent standards; • Use of cleaner fuels, technologies and production practices; • Environmentally sound management of municipal solid waste and

hazardous waste; • Regular monitoring for ensuring compliance to environmental mitigation

measures; • Issuance of notices/directions to defaulting units for non-compliance of

stipulated effluent and emission norms; • Implementation of the Charter on Corporate Responsibility for

Environmental Protection for 17 categories of polluting industries; and • Setting up of a network of ambient air and water quality monitoring

stations. *********



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO DEEP WATER PORT

3503. SHRI HARILAL MADHAVJIBHAI PATEL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

318

(a) whether the Government is aware that the development of Dholera as a deep water port in Gujarat has been delayed due to non-clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and (c) by when the environment clearance is likely to be accorded in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) and (b): No, Sir. (c): The proposal on an all weather port (minor) at Dholera, Gujarat by M/s Dholera Port Limited has been received by the Ministry of Environment & Forests and had been examined by the Expert Committee for Infrastructure Development and Miscellaneous Projects on two occasions. Based on the observations made by the said Expert Committee, requisite information have been sought from M/s Dholera Port Limited which is awaited for consideration of environmental clearance. ******


LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO .3496 TO BE ANSWERED ON 18.04.2005

PENDING SEA LINK PROJECTS

3496. SHRI EKNATH M,GAIKWAD Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of sea link projects pending with the Union Government for environmental clearance as on date particularly from the Government of Maharashtra;

(b) since when each of them is pending alongwith the reasons therefore; (c) the extent of cost escalation suffered by each project; and

319

(d) the steps taken to accord early clearance to these project? ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No, Sir (b)to(d): Does not arise. *******



SCHEME FOR PROTECTION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES

2152. SHRI RATILAL KALIDAS VARMA RAJNARAYAN BUDHOLIYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is contemplating to formulate a scheme for the protection of endangered species of animals in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the funds spent by the Government on the schemes formulated for the protection of endangered species of animals during the last three years, State-wise; and (d) the amount sanctioned by the Government for the protection of endangered species of animals under the existing schemes and that formulated during the current year, State-wise?

320

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Ministry already has Centrally Sponsored Schemes for protection and conservation of endangered species. No new dedicated scheme for the protection of endangered species of animals is contemplated. (b): Does not arise. (c)&(d): Details of funds sanctioned and amount utilised by the State Governments during the last three years under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes are at Annexures – I to III. Annexure - I Details of Funds Released and Utilised under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme ‘Development of National Parks and Sanctuaries’

S no

State Released 2001-02 Utilised Released

2002-03 Utilise

d Released 2003-04

Utilised

Released

2004-05

Utlised

1 A & N Islands 25.59 18.442 20.75 - - - 69.40 Nil 2. Andhra Pradesh. 88.595 77.56 82.725 83.2404 89.30856 70.535 71.70 73.321

3. Arunachal Pr 160.465 108.801 105.035 61.009 151.046 107.61

1 111.086 104.006

4 Assam 70.55 168.91 162.135 48.25 93.68 227.89 213.45 5 Bihar 4.52 - 00 - 24.65 - - 6 Chandigarh 18.40 18.20 14.00 14.00 - - - Nil

7 Chattisgarh 36.94 28.70 92.025 91.16877 295.93469 255.98

4 227.29 268.10

8 D & N Haveli 6.01 1.59 15.25 8.69 - - 20.00 Nil 9 Goa 89.98 - Nil - 36.45607 9.681 37.50 35.89 10 Gujarat 127.20 18.95 90.365 29.04 52.14 222.81 223.93 211.29

11 Haryana 15.64 31.71 18.75 29.14 24.84 38.49 45.10 -

12 Himachal Pr 111.235 95.423 93.853 74.6715 168.9605 182.88

5 343.52 349.085

13 Jammu & Kashmir 26.00 29.91 99.90 62.0965

1 138.82492 76.914 63.20 -

14 Jharkhand Nil 29.89 29.89 54.6228 21.50 77.59 110.71

15 Karnataka 388.26 119.204 599.017 225.788

9 693.9609 719.64 546.24 -

321

16 Kerala 81.50 71.444 198.978 240.595 188.371 220.65

5 238.788 233.353

17 Madhya Pradesh 99.38 74.843 196.332 195.719 344.35594 273.57

9 268.475 -

18 Maharashtra 153.368 129.936 168.20 169.514

57 165.24596 129.79134 108.05 221.86

19 Manipur 26.81 58.594 64.50 64.5 57.80 49.50 110.588 118.888

20 Meghalaya 27.95 26.08 40.25 57.64 93.07 96.25 84.82 -

21 Mizoram 128.55 105.67 235.60 201.42 231.836 214.89

1 315.041 275.3662

22 Nagaland 43.13 48.13 107.84 76.00 42.70 39.63 32.32 -

23 Orissa 70.265 128.37 82.57 92.255 187.25 115.91 370.27 367.93

24 Punjab 29.60 - Nil - -- - - -

25 Rajashthan 73.00 87.759 366.273 208.761 214.819 328.45

87 246.62 240.445

26 Sikkim 30.45 61.10 132.76 119.16 108.92 102.30 74.40 86.80

27 Tamil Nadu 75.23 49.54 136.11 118.41 139.76 143.92

5 158.75 -

28 Tripura 46.41 45.387 101.88 71.275 245.26484 54.085 49.125 -

29 Uttar Pradesh 79.815 74.345 137.36 118.28 164.37 177.12 287.53 292.51

30 Uttaranchal 38.13 36.23 77.985 61.21 96.39 63.34 68.20 56.20

31 West Bengal 180.945 103.889 223.67 235.287 214.165 231.82

4 317.24 298.10186

TOTAL 2353.918 1818.717 3694.00 2787.012 4318.74218 4175.1

99904 4780.22

449 3343.856

322

Annexure - II Details of Fund Released and Utilized under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Project Elephant”

S.No

Name of State 2001-2002 2002 – 2003 2003 - 2004 2004 - 2005

Released Utilized Released Utilized Released Utilized Released Utilized 1 Andhra Pradesh 31 31 50.00 45.00 55.00 47.271 48.00 46.694 2 Arunachal

Pradesh 56 14.288 52.00 60.722 61.00 61.497 59.00 74.588

3 Assam 94.5 65 116.00 69.10 134.100 130.35 130.00 110.5 4 Jharkhan 22.688 22.688 45.00 43.62 93.0 92.38 105.96 132.532 5 Karnatak 81 47.75 93.0 0 117.34 149.660 157.5 186.22 179.19 6 Kerala 82 58.61 11.88 118.394 188.280 167.105 167.40 156.403 7 Meghalaya 30 26 41.00 45.00 64.00 59.64 70.00 0 8 Nagaland 72.13 72.13 49.00 35.00 42.00 56.00 29.00 29.00 9 Orissa 102.03 97.442 108.39 114.048 116.100 76.17 137.96 150.46

10 Tamil Nad 40 31.54 71.26 57.62 117.00 107.30 84.00 104.36 11

Uttaranchal 125.14 119.855 107.00 101.55 129.00 109.74 138.90 17.00

12 West Benga 95 66.545 86.47 103.975 119.950 107.43 148.54 142.02 13 Manipur - - - - - - 0.00 0 14 Tripura 1.00 1.00 3.00 3.00 16.00 0 17.00 0 15 Mizoram - - 5.00 0.00 - 0 0.00 0 16 Uttar Pradesh - - - - -. - 12.00 11.5

TOTAL 832.49 653.848 939.00 914.369 1285.09 1172.38 1333.98 1154.25 (Rs. In lakhs) Annexure - III Details of Funds Released and Utilised under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Project Tiger” S.N

Name of the State/ UTs

Released 2002-03

Utilized

Released 2003-04 Utilized Released

2004-05 Utilized

1. Andhra Pradesh 21.10 9.993 22.89 22.85 15.00 37.864 2

Arunachal Pradesh 35.875 28.773 68.75 66.29 35.00 55.801

323

3 Assam 65.70 29.70 79.95 - - 107.85

4 Bihar 25.00 24.98 50.00 66.40 85.00 42.707 5 Chhatisgarh 32.48 40.91 80.25 91.524 27.75 8.42611 6 Karnataka 289.56 184.89 269.32 192.235 486.292 435.521 7 Kerala 63.75 59.25 120.68 80.18 105.75 97.01 8 Jharkhand 18.00 77.0015 35.9915 33.8435 72.5005 70.809 9 Madhya Pradesh 786.44 658.67 1103.414 579.114 609.93 674.399

10 Maharashtra 621.79 221.213 228.45 187.39 255.953 89.405

11 Mizoram 98.32 105.435 67.56 70.94 94.34 110.86

12 Orissa 32.88 99.41 151.91 65.50 116.4395 149.949

13 Rajasthan 294.92 179.605 158.330 236.472 79.00 163.799 14 Tamil Nadu 125.00 102.530 35.00 63.40 80.00 96.81 15 Uttranchal 168.00 157.52 200.91 188.29 200.12 214.99 16 Uttar Pradesh 32.75 30.00 173.585 162.735 175.215 NR 17 West Bengal 168.33 180.12 225.17 217.50 325.49 47.736

TOTAL 2879.895 2190.0005 3067.2105 2404.6135 2763.78 2403.937 ********



CLEARANCE TO IRON PLANTS

1047. SHRI JUAL ORAM

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the sponge iron plants set up in Orissa have been given clearance despite the fact that adequate pollution control measures have not been adopted by any of these plants; and (b) if so, the reasons for not following the norms before giving permission?

324

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): As per the provisions of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 1994, new sponge iron plants with investment above Rs.100 Crores and expansion/modernisation plants with investment above Rs.50 Crores are required to obtain environmental clearance from the Central Government. Out of 26 Sponge Iron Plants reportedly operating in Orissa as on date, so far, the Government has received only one proposal of Sponge Iron Plant by M/s. Tata Sponge Iron Limited located at Joda in Orissa for environmental clearance. The Government has accorded environmental clearance to the same with stipulation of specific and general environmental safeguards. No instance of violation of the stipulated environmental clearance conditions by M/s. Tata Sponge Iron Limited has been brought to the notice of the Government. *******



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR POWER PLANT

3841. SHRI PUNNULAL MOHALE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware of the proposed 500 MW power plant in collaboration of Bhilai Steel Plant and National Thermal Power Corporation; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether, complaints have been received regarding setting up of the above power plant in the green belt of Bhilai Steel Plant; (d) if so, whether irrespective of objections environmental clearance has been granted; and (e) if so, the details thereof and the grounds for granting such clearance?

325

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Yes, Sir. M/s Bhilai Electric Supply Company Private Ltd., a joint venture of National Thermal Power Corporation and Steel Authority of India Ltd., have proposed to set up a 2x250 MW thermal power plant within the boundary of Bhilai Steel Plant in Durg district of Chhattishgarh. (c): No, Sir. (d)&(e): The said project has been accorded environmental clearance on July 1, 2004 based on the recommendations of the Expert Committee after appraisal of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report submitted by the project proponent. *****************



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO POWER PLANT

3713. SHRI SUNIL KHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether N.O.C. has been given by the Ministry to power sector for installing 1000 MW power plant by the side of Durgapur Steel Plant in West Bengal; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, the reasons therefore?

326

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No, Sir. (b): Does not arise. (c): The project has not been granted clearance due to environmental considerations. ***********



PROCEDURE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARNACE 2726. DR. BABU RAO MEDIYAM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the procedure adopted for according environmental clearance for the construction

of large dams and projects; and (b) the measures proposed to be taken to protect bio-diversity from the ill-effects of

construction of dams and such other projects?

327

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The procedure adopted for according environmental clearance is as prescribed in

the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification 1994 and its subsequent amendments notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

(b): The measures generally taken for conservation of biodiversity from the ill effects

of construction of dams is the identification of areas that are rich in diversity of flora and fauna and stipulating specific conservation measures to ensure their protection such as – restoration and rejuvenation of degraded ecosystems/habitats in the catchment of the project area as well as forests in the immediate vicinity of the project sites, rehabilitation of keystone species, if any, and mitigation of biotic/abiotic pressures/influences on the habitats.

********



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO IRRIGATION/THERMAL PROJECTS

667. SHRI BADIGA RAMAKRISHNA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether a number of irrigation and thermal power projects and expansion plan

for Visakhapatnam Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh have been held up due to non-clearance by the Government;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the time since when each of these projects is pending and the cost escalation of

these projects; and

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(d) the time by which these projects are likely to be cleared?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Only one irrigation and two thermal power projects from Andhra Pradesh are

pending for environmental clearance under the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification 1994. The expansion project of M/s Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd. At Visakhapatnam for increasing hot metal production from 4.0 to 6.5 million tonne per annum has already been accorded environmental clearance in August 2005.

(b): The details of the above pending projects are as follows :-

Irrigation (i) J.Chokka Rao Godavari Lift Irrigation Scheme in Warangal District. Thermal Power Projects

(i) 500 MW Bhoopalapally Power Station near Neredupally, District Warangal by M/s Andhra Pradesh Power Generation Corporation Ltd.

(ii) Expansion of Coal Based Captive Power Plant from 50 MW to 114 MW at Paloncha, district Khammam by M/s Nav Bharat Ferro Alloys Ltd.

(c)&(d): While the irrigation project was received in the Ministry in November 2005, the Thermal Power project proposals were received in May 2005. The appraisal of the projects for grant of environmental clearance will be completed within the prescribed statutory period of 120 days from the receipt of all the requisite clarifications from the applicants. Therefore the question of cost escalation due to environmental clearance process does not arise.

**********



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

684. SHRI VIJOY KRISHNA

329

SHRI PRABHUNATH SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government has given environmental clearance for the construction

of shopping malls and other building projects in several parts of Delhi; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether construction is destroying the character if the ridge area; and (d) If so, the action taken / proposed to be taken to stop such construction?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No, Sir. (b): Does not arise. (c)&(d): The information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House.

***********



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO IRRIGATION/THERMAL PROJECTS

667 SHRI BADIGA RAMAKRISHNA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether a number of irrigation and thermal power projects and expansion plan for

Visakhapatnam Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh have been held up due to non-clearance by the Government;

330


these projects; and (d) the time by which these projects are likely to be cleared?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Only one irrigation and two thermal power projects from Andhra Pradesh are

pending for environmental clearance under the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification 1994. The expansion project of M/s Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd. at Visakhapatnam for increasing hot metal production from 4.0 to 6.5 million tonne per annum has already been accorded environmental clearance in August 2005.

(b): The details of the above pending projects are as follows : Irrigation (i) J. chokka Rao Godavari Lift Irrigation Scheme in Warangal District. Thermal Power Projects

(i) 500 MW Bhoopalapally Power Station near Neredupally, District Warangal by M/s Andhra Pradesh Power General Corporation Ltd.

(ii) Expansion of Coal Based Captive Power Plant from 50 MW to 114 MW at Paloncha District Khammam by M/s. Nav Bharat Ferro Alloys Ltd.

(c)&(d): While the irrigation project was received in the Ministry in November 2005, the Thermal Power project proposals were received in May 2005. The appraisal of the projects for grant of environmental clearance will be completed within the prescribed statutory period of 120 days from the receipt of all the requisite clarifications from the applicants. Therefore, the question of cost escalation due to environmental clearance process does not arise.

**********



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ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE TO IRRIGATION PROJECTS

813. SHRI ADHIR CHOWDHURY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of development irrigation projects pending for environmental clearance in the country, State-wise;

(b) the requirement of area of forest land for each project; and (c) the time by which all these projects are likely to be approved?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) & (b): The details of State-wise irrigation projects pending for environmental clearance, showing requirement of forest land, is given in Annexure.

(b) Decision on the proposals for environmental clearance is taken within 120 days

from the date of receipt of all requisite information. ANNEXURE Details of State-wise irrigation projects pending for environmental clearance, with requirement of forest land

SI.NO. NAME OF THE PROPOSAL

STATE FORESTS LAND INVOLVED (HA)

1 Godawari Lift Irrigation Project

Andhra Pradesh 344.00

2 Revised Waghur River Project

Maharashtra 78.62

3 Canalization Sakki/Kirannala Project

Punjab Nil

********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRTY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION-NO 667

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TO BE ANSWERED ON 28-11-2005

ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE TO IRRIGATION/THERMAL PROJECTS

667 SHRI BADIGA RAMAKRISHNA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether a number of irrigation and thermal power projects and expansion plan for Visakhapatam Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh have been held up due to non-clearance by the Government;


these projects; and (d) the time by which these projects are likely to be cleared?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): One irrigation and two thermal power projects from Andhra Pradesh are pending for environmental clearance under the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification 1994. The expansion project of M/s Rashitriya Ispat Nigam Ltd. at Visasakhapatnam for increasing hot metal production from 4.0 to 6.5 million tonne per annum has already been accorded environmental clearance in August 2005. (b): The details of the above pending projects are as follows: Irrigation

(1) J . Chokka Rao Godavari Lift Irrigation Scheme in Warangal District.

Thermal Power Projects

(1) 500 MW Bhoopalapally Power Station near Neredupally, District Warangal by M/s Andhra Pradesh Power Generation Corporation Ltd.

(2) Expansion of Coal Based Captive Power Plant from 50 MW to 114 MW at Paloncha, District Khammam by M/s Nav bharat Ferro Alloys Ltd.

(c)&(d): While the irrigation project was received in the Ministry in November 2005, the Thermal Power project proposals were received in May 2005. The appraisal of projects for grant of environmental clearance will be completed within the prescribed statutory period of 120 days from the receipt of all the

333

requisite clarifications from the applicants. Therefore, the question of cost escalation due to environmental clearance process does not arise. ***************



PROCEDURE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE

2726. DR. BABU RAO MEDIYAM: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the procedure adopted for according environmental clearance for the construction of large dams and projects; and (b) the measures proposed to be taken to protect bio-diversity from the ill-effects of

construction of dams and such other projects?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The procedure adopted for according environmental clearance is as prescribed in

the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 1994 and its subsequent amendments notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

(b) The measures generally taken for conservation of biodiversity from the ill-effects of construction of dams is the identification of areas that are rich in diversity of flora and fauna and stipulating specific conservation measures to ensure their protection such as – restoration and rejuvenation of degraded ecosystems/ habitats in the catchment of the project area as well as forests in the immediate vicinity of the project sites, rehabilitation of keystone species, if any; and mitigation of biotic and/or abiotic pressures/influences on the habitats.

***************

334



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

684. SHRI VIJOY KRISHNA

SHRI PRABHUNATH SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Government has given environmental clearance for the construction of shopping malls and other building projects in several parts of Delhi; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether construction is destroying the character if the ridge area; and (d) if so, the action taken/proposed to be taken to stop such construction?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No, Sir.

(b): Does not arise.

(c)&(d): The information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House.

*************

335



ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR URANIUM MINING

651. SHRI MADHU GOUD YASKHI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Department of Atomic Energy has submitted a proposal for environmental clearance to its proposed uranium mining and processing plant at Nalgonda in Andhra Pradesh; (b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the date of receiving it; and (c) the reaction of the Government thereto?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Ministry of Environment & Forests has received a proposal on 8th June,

2005 from the Department of Atomic Energy for environmental clearance of the proposed uranium mining project for mining of 1250 tonnes per day of uranium ore at Lambapur-Peddagattu in district Nalgonda in Andhra Pradesh.

(c): Expert Committee (Mining) has appraised the proposal in its meeting held in October

2005 and has recommended to the Government for grant of environmental clearance subject to stipulating stringent environmental clearance conditions inter-alia undertaking groundwater modeling studies and obtaining other requisite statutory clearances by M/s Uranium Corporation of India Ltd.

************

336


LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 2661 TO BE ANSWERED ON 12-12-2005

ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE TO PROJECTS

2661. SHRI TATHAGATA SATPATHY Will the minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the names of the projects in Orissa for which environmental

clearance has been given by the Government during the last three years;

(b) the criteria /procedures followed for giving clearance; and (c) the name of the projects for which environmental clearance is

pending?

ANSWER

MINISTRY OF STATE ON THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENT (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) : The environmental clearance has been given to 42 projects during the last three years (Annexure1).

(b): The environmental clearance as per procedure prescribed in the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 1994 and its subsequent amendments framed under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. ©: The name of the projects to which environmental clearance is pending is given in S.No Project Details Date of

clearance Industrial Projects 1 Integrated steel plant in Thelkoli Dubenchapar Khadiapalli

village, Tehsil Rengali in district Sambalpur by M/s Bhushan ltd 12-5-2004

2 Expansion of Aluminum smelter plant 3,45,000 TPA to 4,60,000TPA at village Angul in district Dhenkanal by M/s National aluminum Company Limited (NALCO)

22.06.2004

3 Expansion of Aluminum refinery plant from 1.575 MMTPA to 2.1 MMTPA at village Damanjodi in district Koraput . by M/s National Aluminum Company Limited (NALCO)

22.06.2004

337

4 Setting up of Alumina refinery and associate at Lanjigarh district Kalahandi by M/s Sterlite industries.

22.09.2004

5 Setting up of Copper Smelter by M/s, Sterlite Industries Ltd 22.09.2004 6 Iron & Steel Plant of M/s . Tata Sponge Iron Limited 11.11.2004 7

Retrofitting from 750MTPTto 1400MTPT of phosphoric acid plant and installation of additional train of 2000 MTPD sulphuric acid plant at Paradeep in Orissa by M/s Paradeep phosphates Limited

02.12.2004

8 0.5MTPA Integrated Steel plant and 40 MW Captive Power Plant at village Ghantikal in District Cuttack in Orissa by M/s Aarti Steel Limited.

16.3.2005

9 Integrated Steel Complex at cillage Chadri, Hariharpur, district Sundargarh byM/s , Neepaz Limited

21.6.2005

10 Steel Plant (1.5 MTPA) at Sibpur Narendrapur Village Meramandali Block district Dhemkamal, by M/s. Bhushan Steel & Strips limited.

29.6.2005

11 Augmentation of Smelter Plant capacity from 65 KTPA to 100 KTPA at Hirakud District of Orissa by M/s. Hindal Coformerly known as INDAL

14.7.2005

12 Modernization cum Substantial expansion of existing cement Plant to produce 1.2/2.0 MTPA of Clinker Cement at Rajgangour, District Sundergarh by M.s .OCL India Ltd.

21.7.2005

13 Integrated Stainless Steel Plant (1.6MTPA) at Kalinga Nagar Industrial Complex, Jaipur, Orissa by M/s Jinda Stainless Limited

05.08.2005

Thermal Power Projects 14 2nd phase expansion project of captive Power plant increasing

capacity from 960 MW to 1200 MW Angul, Orissa of M/s national Aluminium Company Ltd (NALCO)

30.07.2004

15 100 MW Captive Thermal Power Plant (Unit 111) Expansion at Hirakud By M/s . Indian Aluminium Company Ltd

21.09.2005

16 5x130 MW Captive Power Plant of M/s. Aditya Aluminium (HINDAL CO).

22.11.2005

River Valley Projects 17 Anandpur Barrage Project in Distt. Keonjhar by Department of

Irrigation. 04.11.2003

18 Bhubaneswari Open Cast Project in District Angul by M/s Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd.

06.06.2005

19 Khondbond Iron Ore Mine Project of M/s Tata Steel, Keonjhar Dist, Orissa

28.3.2005

20 Nuasahi Chromite Mine Of M/s Indian metals and Ferro Alloys Ltd. In Keonjhar District

09.7.2004

21 Mahagiri Chromite Mine of M/s Indian Charge Chrome, Jaipur District

09.07.2004

22 Jai-Surjana Limestone mine of M/s Birla Cement Work 29.07.2004 23 Second Phase expansion of Panchpatmali bauxite mine of M/s

National Aluminium Company Ltd, Koraput 30.07.2004

338

24 Thankuani Iron Ore Mine of M/s SL. Sarda and M.L. Sarda in Keonjhar District, Orissa

22.09.2004

25 Expansion of Tata Spongeiron plant at Joda in Orissa, by M/s Tata Sponge Iron Ltd

11.11.2004

26 Joda East Iron Ore Mine Project of M/s. Tata Steel, Keonjhar Distt.

01.04.2005

27 Ananta OCP of M/s , MCL, Distt, Angul 02.05.2005 28 Garjanbahal OCP of M/s , MCL, Distt, Sundergarh 03.05.2005 29 Katamati Iron Ore Project of M/s . Tata Steel, keonkhar Distt,

Orissa. 06.05.2005

30 Jajang Mines Ltd, Distt, Keonjhar 14.06.2005 31 Patabeda Iron Ore mine of M/s, M. G. Mohanty, Distt,

Sundergarh (Production capacity 1.2( KTOA). 21.07.2005

32 Patabeda Iron Ore mine of M/s,MGM Minerals Ltd, Distt , Sundergarh (Production capacity 1.60 MTPA)

33 Belapahar OCP of M/s . MCL , Distt, Jarsuguda 16.8.2005 34 Joda West Manganese Ore Mine of M/s Tate Steel, Distt ,

Keonjhar. 13.9.2005

35 Jagannath OCP of M/s , MCL , Distt, Angul, 29.9.2005




ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR INDUSTRIAL PLANTS

2. SHRI MOHAN RAWALE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether environmental clearance is required to set up industries/plants in the country; and (b) If so, the number of such cases cleared during the last three years, State-wise alongwith the norms fixed/followed for such clearance?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

339

(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes Sir. Environmental clearance is required for setting up of 22 categories of industrial projects under the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 1994 and its subsequent amendments. (b): Environmental clearance is granted to the industrial plants in accordance with the procedure laid down in the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification,1994. Number of such cases cleared during the last three years is given in the statement which is annexed. ANNEXURE State-wise List of Industrial Projects granted Environmental Clearance during the last Three Years (From January 2002 till 30th June 2005) . Sl. No

State 2002 2003 2004 1st Jan TO 30TH June 2005

Total

1 Andhra Pradesh

8 7 12 22 49

2 Assam 1 1 2 0 4 3 Bihar 0 0 0 0 0 4 Chhatisgarh 2 1 3 2 8 5 Gujarat 7 71 29 7 114 6 Goa 0 0 0 0 0 7 Haryana 2 2 6 16 26

8 Himachal

Pradesh 1 0 0 1 2

9 Jharkhand 1 0 1 1 3 10 Karnataka 3 1 10 4 18 11 Kerla 0 0 0 0 0 12 Maharashtra 15 18 20 4 57 13 Madhya

Pradesh 0 1 2 1 4

14 Orissa 0 0 7 2 9 15 Punjab 4 2 9 2 17 16 Rajasthan 1 2 8 2 13 17 Tamilnadu 27 39 29 45 140 18 Uttar 0 4 8 1 13

340

Pradesh 19 Uttaranchal 0 0 1 0 1 20 West

Bengal 5 10 2 1 18

Total 77 159 149 111 496

**********

341

FOOD SAFETY

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES


ESTABLISHMENT OF BOTTLING PLANTS

3508 SHRI S. AJAYA KUMAR Will the Minister of FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has entered with an agreement with the Coca-Cola and Pepsi companies for their establishment of bottling plants in the country; (b) if so, the details of the terms and conditions laid down by the Government for the same; and (c) the details of bottling plants of these companies with capacity of annual production and the number of employment provided in each of them, State-wise?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI SUBODH KANT SAHAI) (a) to (c): The information is being collected and would be placed on the Table of the House. ***********




342

VIOLATION OF FOOD PRODUCTS NORMS

218. DR. M. JAGANNATH Will the Minister of FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that various artificial colours and flavouring agents are at present being indiscriminately used, especially by the Small Scale Industries not only in soft drinks but also in confectionary items; (b) if so, whether the existing food law is sufficient enough to make the violators to strictly comply with its provisions; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) if not, the steps taken or proposed to be taken to discourage the use of such synthetic flavours and colouring agents?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI SUBODH KANT SAHAI) (a) to (d): The use and limits of various artificial colours and flavouring agents in food products is governed by the provisions of Prevention of Food Adulteration Act (PFA), 1954 and Rules made thereunder. There have been reports on use of non-permitted colours and flavouring agents or use of more than permitted quantities of colours and flavouring agents in some food products. The State/Union Territories, who are the implementing agencies of the PFA Act/Rules, have been requested from time to time to have a strict vigil on this. The violation in this regard attracts penal action under provisions of PFA Act. **********

343




INTEGRATED FOOD LAW

33. SHRI SITA RAM YADAV Will the Minister of FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Group of Ministers has approved the draft Integrated Food Law; (b) if so, the salient features thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefore; and (d) by when the same is likely to be approved?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI SUBODH KANT SAHAI) (a) to (d): The Group of Ministers has approved the draft Integrated Food Law. The salient features of the draft IFL are: (i) movement from multi-level and multi-departmental control to integrated line of command, (ii) a single reference point for all matters relating to Food Safety and Standards, regulations and enforcement by establishing a Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, (iii) shift from mere regulatory regime to self-compliance through Food Safety Management Systems, (iv) decentralising the licensing/registration for manufacture, sale, etc. of food products, presently granted by the Central agencies under various Acts and Orders, (v) graded penalties depending on the gravity of offence.

*********

344



SPURIOUS DRUGS AND CONTAMINATED MILK

431. SHRI RAJESH VERMA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that the business of spurious drugs and contaminated milk is booming through out the country; (b) if so, whether there is any appropriate laws in this regard; (c) if so, the punishment provided under the laws along with the details of convicted persons during the last three years; and (d) if not, the time, by which the Government would enact a law ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a): As per the feedback available from the State Drug Controllers, 38824, 43138, 40862 drug samples were tested during the period 2001-2002, 2002-2003 and 2003-2004, out of which 96, 129 and 118 samples respectively were found spurious which is 0.33 per cent, 0.29 per cent and 0.288 per cent of the total samples. Thus, it does not appear that the business of spurious drugs is booming in the country. (b) & (c): Yes Sir. So far as the issue of drugs is concerned, the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 provides for penalty for manufacture of sub-standard and spurious drugs which is imprisonment for not less than 3 years which may extend to 5 years with fine. However, if the drug causes death or grievous hurt and this death or hurt is attributable to the drug being adulterated or spurious, then the punishment provided is imprisonment for not less than 5 years which may extend to a term of life and a fine which may not be less than Rupees ten thousand. Under the Act, the responsibility for regulating the manufacture and sale of drugs

345

including taking legal action against the unscrupulous persons rests with the State Government. As per the feedback available from the State Drug Controllers, 538, 449 and 570 prosecutions were launched and 171, 105 and 166 cases were decided during the period 2001-2002, 2002- 2003 and 2003-2004 respectively. In so far as milk and milk products are concerned the position is as follows. Sale of milk and milk products containing substances not found in milk except as provided in the Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Rules, 1955 is already prohibited under the provisions of PFA Act, 1954. Sale of any adulterated and misbranded article of food is an offence punishable with minimum imprisonment of 6 months and with a fine, which shall not be less than Rupees one thousand. In case the adulterated foodstuff causes death or grievous hurt, the offence is punishable by imprisonment, which may extend to a term of life and fine which shall not be less than Rupees five thousand. All State/UT Governments have been repeatedly directed to take necessary action to keep a strict vigil on the quality of milk particularly for the presence of chemical substances. Statement indicating total number of prosecutions launched, convictions and acquittals under PFA Act, 1954 for food products including milk and milk products during the last three years is given at Annex.I (d) Question does not arise in view of (b) & (c) above. Annexure-I Total no. of Prosecution Launched, Convicted and Acquitted under PFA Act, 1954 for food adulteration including milk and milk products during last three years. Year

No. of

Prosecution Launched

No. of Cases decided by the Courts

No. of Cases convicted

No. of cases acquittal

2001 5943 2704 1263 1441 2002* 2867 1333 420 913 2003* 1536 779 319 460 * Information is awaited from the State of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, J&K, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Uttaranchal, Jharkhand and Chandigarh ** Information is awaited from Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal

346

Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chandigarh, Chattisgarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu, Delhi, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, J & K, Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Orissa, Pondicherry, Punjab, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, UP & Jharkhand ********



CASES OF ADULTERATION OF FOOD PRODUCTS

4272. SHRI CHANDRA BHUSHAN SINGH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) the total number of cases reported regarding adulteration of food products during the last three years; (b) whether the Government has received any directions from the Hon`ble Court regarding adulteration of chillies; and (c) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE

(DR.ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a); As per the latest information made available by various Food (Health) Authorities who are responsible for implementation of the PFA Act, 1954 in their respective States/U.Ts., the number of food samples found adulterated during the years 2001-2003 are as under:-

Year Number of food samples found adulterated 20011 11008 20022 10025 20033 9226

347

1 Does not include the information from the State of Gujarat. 2 Does not include the information from the States of Gujarat, Bihar and Jharkhand. 3 Does not include the information from the States/U.Ts. of Andaman & Nicobar Island, Assam, Bihar, Chandigarh, Chattisgarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Gujarat, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa and Tamil Nadu. (b) & (c): The Government has not received any directions from the Hon`ble Court regarding adulteration of chillies so far. ***********



FOOD SAFETY AND STANDARD AUTHORITY

714. SHRI BHARTRUHARI MAHTAB MAGUNTA SREENIVASULU REDDY Will the Minister of FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government proposes to set up the Food Safety and Standard Authority to oversee the entire food manufacturing and processing sectors; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is being ensured to check food adulteration; (d) if not, the steps taken by the Government to create standards and guidelines on food; (e) whether food imported into the country is being monitored and approved by the above authority before entry; and (f) if not, the reasons therefor?

348

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI SUBODH KANT SAHAI) (a): Yes Sir. (b) to (d): The Government have introduced a Food Safety and Standards Bill, 2005 in Parliament which provides for establishment of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. The main functions of Food Authority include prescribing standards and guidelines for articles of food, regulate/monitor manufacturing, processing, distribution and sale of food, so as to ensure safe and wholesome food for the people, accredit and issue guidelines for certification bodies and food laboratories, provide scientific advice and technical support to the Central and State Governments, contribute in development of international standards etc. (e) & (f): The Bill provides that the Government, while prohibiting, restricting or otherwise regulating import of an article of food under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 will follow the standards to be laid down by the Food Authority.

****************



LAW FOR FOOD PROCESSING COMPANIES

2851. SHRI RASHEED MASOOD Will the Minister of FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government proposes to frame a new law making it mandatory for company manufacturing food products to provide all necessary information regarding contents and calories of the contents on packets and tins; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the time by which the law in this regard is likely to come into force?

349

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI SUBODH KANT SAHAI) (a) & (b): The Government has introduced ‘Food Safety and Standards Bill, 2005’ in Lok Sabha on 25th August 2005, which inter-alia, provides that no person shall manufacture any packaged food products, which are not marked and labeled, in the manner as may be specified by regulations. (c): The Bill has been referred to Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture for examination and report. *******



CERTIFICATION FOR PROCESSED FOOD

3724. SHRI L. GANESAN Will the Minister of FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES be pleased to state:- (a) whether Ministry’s Certification for processed food has been made mandatory; (b) if so, whether all such food products have been brought under the ambit of this measure; (c) if not, the time by which the Government proposes to compulsorily effect this socially relevant measure; and (d) the number of food processing units that are keen on central certification State-wise?

350

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI SUBODH KANT SAHAI) (a) to (d): Ministry of Food Processing Industries does not give certification for processed food. However, quality and safety standards/parameters of processed food products are prescribed under various food related Acts/Orders, primarily under Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 and Rules made thereunder. The manufacturers of processed food have to comply with these standards/parameters. *********



ESTABLISHMENT OF PESTICIDE RESIDUE TESTING LABORATORY

693. SHRI GIRDHARI LAL BHARGAV Will the Minister of FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Union Government has received a proposal from the Government of Rajasthan for financial assistance for establishment of Pesticide Residue Testing Laboratory, Durgapura, Jaipur for the year 2005-06; and (b) if so, the details thereof and the action taken thereon?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI SUBODH KANT SAHAI) (a): Yes, Sir. (b): The applicant organisation was invited twice to present the case before the Techno Scrutiny Committee (TSC) of this Ministry. But it did not attend the meetings. *********

351



LAW FOR FOOD PROCESSING COMPANIES

2851. SHRI RASHEED MASOOD Will the Minister of FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government proposes to frame a new law making it mandatory for company manufacturing food products to provide all necessary information regarding contents and calories of the contents on packets and tins; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the time by which the law in this regard is likely to come into force?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRIES (SHRI SUBODH KANT SAHAI) (a) & (b): The Government has introduced ‘Food Safety and Standards Bill, 2005’ in Lok Sabha on 25th August 2005, which inter-alia, provides that no person shall manufacture any packaged food products, which are not marked and labeled, in the manner as may be specified by regulations. (c): The Bill has been referred to Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture for examination and report. *********

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AMENDMENT TO CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT, 1986

683. SHRI UDAY SINGH ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 in its present form was found to be inadequate in protecting the rights of the consumers; (b) if so, whether the Government proposes to amend the said Act to prevent unscrupulous manufactures from selling spurious goods to consumers; and (c) if so, the details regarding the amendment likely to be affected in the Act?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a): No Sir. (b) & (c): Does not arise.

******



AMENDMENT TO BIS ACT, 1986

353

3770. SHRI K.C. PALLANI SHAMY Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state:- (a) whether there is any proposal to amend the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act, 1986; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the details of licenses issued for certification of products alongwith the samples tested by BIS during the last one year, separately?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (SHRI TASLIMUDDIN) (a) & (b): No proposal for amendment of BIS Act, 1986 has been received from Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). (c): Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) granted 2045 licences and tested 25888 samples in its laboratories during the last one year. *******

354

FOREST



VIOLATION OF FOREST RULES BY VEDANTA ALUMINA LIMITED

3556. SHRI G.V. HARSHA KUMAR SHRI JUAL ORAM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Vedanta Alumina Limited has violated forestry laws at the project site at Lanjigarh in Orissa; (b) if so, whether it is going to destroy the biodiversity of Niyamgiri hills in that State; and (c) if so, the reaction to the Government thereto?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (c): The Central Government on 19-10-2004, received a proposal from the State Government of Orissa for forestry clearance of 58.943 ha. of forest land in Lanjigarh Tehsil of Kalahandi district, for setting up of Alumina Refinery by M/s Vedanta Alumina Limited. While the proposal was under examination of the Central Government, the State Government has withdrawn the proposal on 28-3-2005, clarifying that the user agency does not require any forest land for the project. However, another proposal for forestry clearance of 660.749 ha. of forest land in Kalahandi (South) Forest Division and Rayagada Forest Division in favour of the M/s Orissa Mining Corporation Ltd. (OMC) for mining of bauxite in Lanjigarh Bauxite Mines, Orissa, has also been received by the Central Government recently. It has also come to the notice of Central Government that the proposed mining project is linked with the project of Alumina Refinery of M/s Vedanta Alumina Limited.

355

The Central Government is carrying out careful examination of the project from all angles including its impact on the nearby rivers/water bodies and the tribals inhabiting the area. Further, the matter is also being considered by the Central Empowered Committee, a body assisting the Supreme Court in forestry and environment related court matters. The Central Empowered Committee has directed the Ministry, not to take any decision on forestry clearance of the mining project till the directions of the Supreme Court are received. Ministry of Environment and Forests has conveyed its agreement to the Central Empowered Committee to this effect and so far, forestry clearance has not been accorded to the project under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. ***********



CUTTING OF TREES BY PROJECT AUTHORITIES

4476. SHRI CHANDRA SHEKHAR DUBEY

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether a power plant of 675 MW generation capacity was set up after the privatisation of Bharat Aluminium Company (BALCO) and thousands of trees were cut down by the satellite company at the land where power plant was set up; (b) if so, the action taken by the Government in this regard; and (c) the details of complaints received and inquiry conducted in this regard, if any ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a)to(c): A complaint has been received in the Ministry regarding construction of 675 MW power plant on forest land by M/s Sterlite Industries, partner of BALCO in Korba District, Chhattisgarh. It has been stated in the complaint that the above power plant was being constructed on forest land by cutting about 7 thousand green trees and without

356

seeking the clearance from Ministry of Environment and Forests. The State Government was requested to conduct an inquiry into the matter. As per information received from the State Government, the land in question is revenue land and 422 trees have been cut without permission and action as per land revenue code has been initiated by the Revenue Department of the State. *******



DRIVES FOR PROTECTION OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

4431. SHRI CHAUDHARY MUNAWWAR HASAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

the details of the drives being run by the Ministry of Environment and Forests for protection of environment and forests in and around Delhi?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) The Government has taken various steps for protection of environment and forests in and around Delhi , which include : * Notification of general and source specific emission standards. * Enforcement of auto exhaust emission standards for new vehicles at manufacturing stage. * Pollution Under control (PUC) certification for in use vehicles. * Improved fuel quality. * Use of beneficiated coal in the thermal power stations. * Fencing of forests and planting of blank patches. * Strict implementation of provisions of Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994 * Running of a Tree Help Line to attend to complaints of tree felling. * Engagement of ex –servicemen for protection of forests and trees. *********

357



ILLEGAL FELLING OF TREES

6387. SHRI ANIRUDH PRASAD (SADHU) YADAV ANANDRAO VITHOBA ADSUL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that illegal felling of trees is taking place in the country particularly in Delhi ; (b) if so, the details of such cases which came to the notice of the Government during the last three years and current year indicating the categories of trees thus cut down, location-wise; and (c) the action taken by the Government in this regard ?


(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a)&(b): Incidents of illicit felling of trees do take place from time to time in different parts of the country. In last three years no case of tree felling was recorded in the forest areas under the control of Forest Department, Government of Delhi. However, outside the forest areas, following cases have been reported under the provisions of Delhi Tree (Preservation) Act, 1994:- Year Location-wise No. of cases booked

Total Cases

Compensation Realised (in Rupees)

South Division

West Division

Central Division

2002-03 32 61 178 272 6,15,818/-

358

2003-04

42 50 160 252 9,32,072/-

2004-05

21 35 44 100 6,88,256/-

2005-06 till Date

00 09 05 14 91,530/-

(c) The Government of NCT of Delhi is taking the following steps to check illicit felling of trees: - (i) Fencing of forest and plantation area. (ii) Running of Tree Help Line for receiving complaint regarding the tree offences and taking appropriate action against such offences. (iii) Enforcement of the Delhi Tree (Preservation) Act, 1994. (iv) Engagement of 75 Ex-Servicemen for protection of forest/plantation area. (v) Publicity and extension activities through RWA, Eco Club, Advertising, etc. generating public awareness for protection of tree and forest. *********



RELAXATION IN FORESTRY LAWS TO INDUSTRIES

5459. SHRI VIRJIBHAI THUMMAR MANSUKHBHAI D. VASAVA

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has provided any relaxation in the forest related laws to certain industries; (b) if so, the details of those industries which have been provided such relaxation in the country including Gujarat during the last three years and current year, State-wise; (c) whether the Government has carried out any review in this regard after providing such relaxations;

359

(d) if so, the outcome thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No such relaxation in forest related laws has been given by the Ministry of Environment and Forests to any industry. (b)to(e) Do not arise. ********



REVENUE LOSS DUE TO BAN ON FELLING OF COMMERCIAL TREES

6469. PROF. CHANDER KUMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the details of revenue losses suffered by the States during the last three years and current year due to ban on felling of trees for commercial purposes, State-wise: (b) whether the Government has any plan to compensate the affected States; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

360


(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No reports have been received from the States/Union Territories regarding the revenue losses due to the ban on felling of trees for commercial purposes except the State of Arunachal Pradesh. As per the information given by Arunachal Pradesh, the revenue loss for the last three years is Rs.220.5 crores approximately. (b)&(c): The Twelfth Finance Commission has recommended a grant of Rs.1,000 crores to the States for maintenance of the forest areas. This amount has been distributed among the States based on their forest areas and is required to be spent for the preservation of their forest wealth. The State-wise and year-wise details of this grant are annexed. (d): Does not arise. Annexure State-wise and Year-wise details of the grants-in-aid for maintenance of forests

.No State 2005-06(in crores)

2006-07 (in crores)

2007-08 (in crores)

2008-09 (in crores)

2009-2010 (in crores)

2005-2010 (in crores)

1 Andhra Pradesh

13.00

13.00

13.00

13.00

13.00 65.00

2 Arunachal Pradesh

20.00

20.00 20.00 20.00 20.00 100.00

3 Assam

8.00

8.00

8.00

8.00

8.00

40.00

4 Bihar

1.00

1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 5.00

5 Chhattisgarh

17.00 17.00 17.00 17.00 17.00 85.00

6 Goa

0.60

0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 3.00

7 Gujarat

4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 20.00

361

8 Haryana

0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40 2.00

9 Himachal Pradesh

4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 2.00

10 Jammu & Kashmir

6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 30.00

11 Jharkhand

6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 30.00

12 Karnataka

11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 11.00 55.00

13 Kerala

5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 25.00

14 Madhya Pradesh

23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00 23.00 55.00

15 Maharashtra

14.00 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.00 70.00

16 Manipur

6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 30.00

17 Meghalaya

6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 30.00

18 Mizoram

5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 25.00

19 Nagaland

5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 25.00

20 Orissa

15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 75.00

21 Punjab 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40 2.00 22 Rajasthan

5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 5.00 25.00

23 Sikkim

1.60 1.60 1.60 1.60 1.60 8.00

24 Tamil Nadu

6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 30.00

25 Tripura

3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 15.00

26 Uttar Pradesh

4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 4.00 2.00

27 Uttaranchal

7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 7.00 35.00

28 West Bengal

3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 15.00

TOTAL 200.00 200.00 200.00 200.00 200.00 1000.00 ********

362



FELLING SMUGGLING OF BHOJ TREES

217. SHRI AJIT JOGI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) Whether Birch (Bhoj) tree is on the verge of extinction due to its indiscriminate felling and smuggling; (b) if so, whether the Government is formulating any action plan for the protection of this tree; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No, Sir. (b)&(c): Following measures have been taken for the protection and conservation of forests including those of Bhoj trees: (i) Legal measures like Indian Forest Act, 1927, Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Forest Conservation Act, 1980 and Environment Protection Act, 1986 and the rules, guidelines thereof. (ii) Management measures like working of forests according to approved Working Plans, Forest Development Agencies and Joint Forest Management. (iii) Financial measures like providing assistance to the States/Union Territories under centrally sponsored schemes and externally aided projects. Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme called ‘Integrated Forest Protection Scheme’, in operation since 2002-03, funds are provided to States and Union Territories primarily for strengthening of infrastructure for protection of forests from illicit fellings, fires, encroachments, etc.

363

(iv) A network of protected areas has been established. *********




REVIEW OF FOREST LAWS

63. SHRI GANESH SINGH A. VENKATESH NAIK M SHIVANNA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has received requests from some States to review the forests laws on the ground that they are coming in the way of addressing the problem of naxalism; and (b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Union Government thereto?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Some states have requested for relaxation in the guidelines issued under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 for addressing the problem of naxalism. The Government of India has granted general approval under Forest Conservation Act, 1980 for execution of developmental and security related activities like schools, drinking water, electric and telecommunication, power substation, communication, minor irrigation, hospitals, vocational training centre, non-conventional source of energy, police establishment and up gradation of roads in rural areas vide order dated 3.01.05 and guideline issued dated 30.04.05. ********

364



CUTTING/PLANTATION OF TREES

1209. DR. M. JAGANNATH BRAJESH PATHAK K. DHANARAJU RAGHURAJ SINGH SHAKYA JASHUBHAI DHANABHAI BARAD KAMLA PRASAD RAWAT ANANTA NAYAK AVTAR SINGH BHADANA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that indiscriminate felling of trees/ forest trees is affecting the environment adversely; (b) if so, the details thereabout; (c) the number of incidents of theft of wood reported during the last three years along with the action taken thereon; (d) the number of trees reported to have been cut during the last three years and thereafter till date in the country; (e) the number of trees that have been planted in comparison to those cut during the above period, State-wise alongwith the ratio of land area and forest cover, State/Union Territory-wise; and (f) the steps being taken to prevent cutting of trees and encourage the planting of more trees in the country ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): No, Sir. Sporadic cases of felling of trees for timber are reported from time to time in different parts of the country.

365

(c)&(d): Forest wood is not stolen as such. It is obtained by way of illicit felling of trees. Number of incidents of illicit felling of trees reported during the last 3 years is as follows:- Year No. of incidents of

illicit felling of treesVolume of Timber (cubic metre)

Value of Timber involved (Rs. In lakhs)

2001-02 2,22,181 94,596.55

6330.65

2002-03 2,42,686

109,336.04

8848.12

2003-04 1,81,185

90,750.79

7953.98

Action against persons involved in illicit felling of trees is taken in accordance with the provisions of Indian Forest Act, 1927, State Acts and rules made thereunder. It involves seizure and/or confiscation of wood seized and penalty/imprisonment to the offenders. (e) Details of plantation of trees during last three years are as follows:-

Year

Area Planted (ha)

2002-03

725910

2003-04

844399

2004-05

1126115

State-wise details are at Annexure. (f): Steps being taken to prevent cutting of trees and to encourage planting of more trees in the country are as follows :-

(i) Seizure, confiscation of vehicles and articles involved in illicit felling, arresting and prosecution of offenders by the State Governments in accordance with the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and State Forest Acts. (ii) Regular patrolling by field staff.

366

(iii) Inspection of forest produce in transit and checking of saw-mills. (iv) Strengthening of wireless networking. (v) Acquiring and use of firearms by field staff in vulnerable areas. (vi) Protection, conservation and management of forests by the active involvement of local communities through the process of Joint Forest Management. (vii) Deployment of Home Guards and State Police personnel in special situations. (viii) Financial assistance is provided to the State Governments under various centrally sponsored forestry and wildlife schemes for the protection and conservation of forests and wildlife. (ix) Creation of network of Protected Areas i.e Wildlife National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves. (x) Planting of trees under the Centrally Sponsored National Afforestation Programme (NAP) through the two tier implementation mechanism of Forest Development Agency (FDA) at division level and Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at the village/local level. 628 FDA projects have been sanctioned so far during Xth Plan, Rs. 691.00 crores have been released upto June 2005 and 8.74 lakh hactare of project area is likely to be afforested during Xth Plan.

367

ANNEXURE Plantation Summary

SI No,

Name of State / UT

Achievement –2002 -03

Seeding (in Lakhs) Distribution (For Plantation on private Lands)

Area (in Hectares) (Public Lands Including Forests Lands)

1 2 3 4 1 Andhra Pradesh

2451.71 140445

2 Arunachal Pradesh

2.6

5726

3 Assam

25.82 4227

4 Bihar

90.53 2652

5 Chhattisgarh

211.54 30480

6 Goa

7.31 531

7 Gujarat

1597.46 56505

8 Haryana

280.04 20563

9 Himachal Pradesh

27.34 17629

10 Jammu & Kashmir

37.29 7939

11 Jharkhand

1.14 428

12 Karnataka

339.16 29864

13 Kerala

5.67 13114

14 Madhya Pradesh

300.25 125042

368

15 Maharashtra

547.28 27667

16 Manipur

0 1475

17 Meghalaya

23.31 1630

18 Mizoram

12.88 2173

19 Nagaland

210.6 17547

20 Orissa

240.12 43476

21 Punjab 17.56 7835 22 Rajasthan

122.13 12580

23 Sikkim

6.7 1129

25 Tamil Nadu

123.56 40536

25 Tripura

27.45 8971

26 Uttar Pradesh

1238.65 23037

27 Uttaanchal 104.72 69224 28 West Bengal 132 20719 29 A & N Islands 1.73 3808 30 Chandigarh 0.35 152 31 D & N Haveli 5 516 32 Daman& Diu 0.26 20 33 Delhi 6.7 0 34 Lakshadweep 0 14 35 Pondicherry 1.88 55 TOTAL 8200.77 725910 .00

Achievement –2003 -04 SI No,

Name of State / UT Seeding

Distribution in Lakhs (For Plantation on private Lands)

Area in Hectares (Public Lands Including Forests Lands)


2466.94 106654

2 Arunachal 2.37 0

369

Pradesh

3 Assam

24.29 1446

4 Bihar

129.26 10622

5 Chhattisgarh

226.00 45200

6 Goa

8.44 516

7 Gujarat

1203.14 52000

8 Haryana

317.26 18309

9 Himachal Pradesh

33.33 15222

10 Jammu & Kashmir

87.64 23468

11 Jharkhand

4.98 32157

12 Karnataka

356.96 20238

13 Kerala

2.13 6304

14 Madhya Pradesh

350.00 150016

15 Maharashtra

328.02 26916

16 Manipur

0.00 0

17 Meghalaya

30.03 1607

18 Mizoram

43.30 13398

19 Nagaland

172.35 14358

20 Orissa

272.49 50986


99.19 21801

23 Sikkim

0.00 0

25 Tamil Nadu 147.65 89275

370

25 Tripura

36.43 7812

26 Uttar Pradesh

1049.74 40223

27 Uttaanchal 142.87 77383 28 West Bengal 23.58 5063 29 A & N Islands 1.62 1128 30 Chandigarh 0.32 162 31 D & N Haveli 7.97 219 32 Daman& Diu 0.00 25 33 Delhi 8.44 0 34 Lakshadweep 0.00 3 35 Pondicherry 2.81 17 TOTAL 7611. 33 844399.00

Achievement –2004 -05 SI No,

Name of State / UT Seeding

Distribution in Lakhs (For Plantation on private Lands)

Area in Hectares (Public Lands Including Forests Lands)


2802.75 179333

2 Arunachal Pradesh

0.71

822

3 Assam

25.85 14126

4 Bihar

54.05 3206

5 Chhattisgarh

0.00 64779

6 Goa

8.29 473

7 Gujarat

1805.14 80020

8 Haryana

346.19 14554

9 Himachal Pradesh

33.10 17737

371

10 Jammu & Kashmir

96.77 28109

11 Jharkhand

24.19 41809

12 Karnataka

224.38 40167

13 Kerala

2.25 4681

14 Madhya Pradesh

350.00 167500

15 Maharashtra

340.03 41221

16 Manipur

8.03 5304

17 Meghalaya

11.02 1

18 Mizoram

14.65 1941

19 Nagaland

282.45 20416

20 Orissa

112.60 54551


117.56 43807

23 Sikkim

10.64 8255

25 Tamil Nadu

119.86 110037

25 Tripura

20.40 9889

26 Uttar Pradesh

2023.84 57145

27 Uttaanchal 154.33 102089 28 West Bengal 50.72 14 29 A & N Islands 0.82 573 30 Chandigarh 0.19 179 31 D & N Haveli 6.25 322 32 Daman& Diu 0.11 10 33 Delhi 9.04 0 34 Lakshadweep 0,10 22 35 Pondicherry 1.99 128 TOTAL 9076.10 1126115

372

Forest cover Sl. no

State/UT GeographicaArea (G.A)

Very Dense forest

Moderatelydense forests

Open forests

Total

Percentof G.A

Scrub

1 Andhra Pradesh

275.069 23 24,356 20,040 44,419 16.15 9.748

2 Arunachal Pradesh

83.743 13.907 39,604 14,504 68,019 81,22 116

3 Assam

78,438 1,684 11,358 14,784 27,826 35,48 219

4 Bihar

94,163 76 2,951 2,531 5,558 5,90 150

5 Chhattisgarh

135,191 1,540 37,440 17,018 55,998 41,42 88

6 Delhi 1,483 0- 52 118 170 11,46 1 7 Goa

3,702 0 1,255 901 2,156 58,24 0

8 Gujarat

196,022 114 6,231 8,601 14,946 7,63 1,743

9 Haryana

44,212 2 518 997 15,17 3,43 68

10 Himachal Pradesh

55,673 1,093 7,883 5,377 14,353 25,78 389

11 Jammu & Kashmir

222,236 2,201 8,395 10,770 21,267 9,57 2,947

12 Jharkhand

79,714 2,544 9,137 11,035 22,716 28,50 807

13 Karnataka

191,791 431 22,030 13,988 36,449 19,00 3,141

14 Kerala

38,863 334 9,294 5,949 15,577 40.08 72

15 Madhya Pradesh

308,245 4,000 37,843 34,586 76,429 24 ,79 2,378

16 Maharashtra

307,713 8,070 20,317 18,478 46,865 15,23 4,175

17 Manipur

22,327 720 5,818 10,681 17,219 77,12 74

18 Meghalaya 22,429 168 6,323 10,348 16,839 75,08 169

373

19 Mizoram

21,081 84 7,404 10,942 18,430 87,42 274

20 Nagaland

16,579 57 5,650 7,902 13,609 82,09 231

21 Orissa

155,707 288 27,822 22,196 48,366 31,06 5,346

22 Punjab 50,362 0 743 837 1,580 3,14 22 23 Rajasthan

342,239 14 4,482 11,330 15,826 4,62 4,564

24 Sikkim

7,096 458 1,904 900 3,262 45,97 360

25

Tamil Nadu 130,058 2,440 9,567 10,636 22,643 17,41 2,040

26 Tripura

10,486 58 4,988 3,047 8,093 77,18 1

27

Uttar Pradesh

240,928 1.297 4,699 8,122 14,118 5,86 749

28 Uttaanchal 53,483 4,002 14,420 6,043 24,465 45,74 320 29 West Bengal 88.752 2.303 3,742 6,298 12,343 13,91 75 30 A & N

Islands 8,249 3,475 2,809 680 6,964 84,42 1

31 Chandigarh 114 1 8 6 15 13,16 1 32 D & N Haveli 491 0 145 80 225 45,82 - 33 Daman& Diu 112 0 2 6 8 7,14 - 34 Lakshadweep 32 0 12 11 23 7188 - 35 Pondicherry 480 0 17 23 40 8,33 - TOTAL 3,287,263 51,285 339,279 287,769 678,33 20,64 40,269

*********



AMENDMENT REPEAL OF FOREST CONSERVATION ACT

186. SHRI BIR SING MAHATO MOHAMMAD TAHIR KHAN MUNSHIRAM

374

NARENDRA KUMAR KUSHWAHA HARISINH PRATAPSINH CHAVDA

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is contemplating to amend/repeal the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; (d) benefits being accrued to tribals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; (e) whether this Act has been hampering the construction of metalled roads; and (f) if so, details thereof alongwith the remedial steps proposed/taken in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No Sir. (b): Does not arise. (c): Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 is a regulatory Act, not prohibitory. (d): Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 deals with non-forestry utilisation of forest lands. For the development of forest dwellers including tribals, Central Government has granted general approval on January 3, 2005 under this Act, for infrastructure development projects like school, dispensary/hospital, electric lines, drinking water, rain water harvesting structure, minor irrigation canal, non-conventional sources of energy, skill upgradation/vocational training centre, power sub-stations, etc. Further, 510 forest villages have been converted into revenue villages in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Uttaranchal so far. Also, 3.65 lakh ha. forest land has been diverted for regularisation of pre-1980 eligible encroachments. To protect the rights on forest lands, Central Government vide letter dated 21-12-2004 and subsequent letter dated 12-5-2005 has also issued directions to the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations not to evict forest dwellers including tribals from forest lands without proper verification. (e): No Sir. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has already issued detailed guidelines on April 30, 2005 for upgradation of ‘Kutchcha’ roads constructed in forest

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areas prior to 1980, to ‘Pucca’ roads and such conversions do not attract the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. (f): Does not arise. *********



REMOVAL OF ENCROACHMENTS FROM RIDGE AREAS

2266. SHRI RAGHUNATH JHA MANVENDRA SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Delhi ridge area is shrinking rapidly; (b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the factors therefor; (c) the steps taken to preserve Delhi’s ridge area; and (d) the number of saplings planted and that survived in Delhi during the last two years and money expended on their preservation?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAYAN MEENA) (a)to(d): The information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House. ***********

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USE OF FOREST LAND BY COAL MINES

2285. SHRI BIKASH CHOWDHURY JASHUBHAI DHANABHAI BARAD Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government proposes to formulate a policy on iron ore mining; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the area of forest land granted to Coal Mines/other undertakings; (d) whether the Government has ever reviewed Environmental impacts these activities have caused; and (e) if so, the details of environmental damages and the reaction of Union Government thereto?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): So far as Ministry of Environment and Forests is concerned, there is no proposal to formulate a policy on iron-ore mining. (c): A total of 93,845.25 ha of forest land has been diverted, so far, for various mining projects in different States since 1980. Out of this, 36,674.91 ha of forest land has been diverted for coal mines. (d)&(e): The mining activity causes loss of topsoil, soil erosion, adverse impacts on flora and micro habitat, air pollution and sometimes impact on underground water table. To mitigate the adverse effects of mining, while granting the forestry clearance for mining projects, the user agency is directed to take up compensatory afforestation and creation of safety zone plantation around mining area. In addition, the user agency is required to carry out stabilisation of over burden dumps through afforestation, and also reclamation of mined out areas by backfilling and plantation of suitable species. The user agency is

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also required to carry out Environment Impact Assessment and implementation of Environment Management Plan. ************



FOREST COMMISSION

2171. SHRI GANESH PRASAD SINGH RABINDRA KUMAR RANA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether a Forest Commission is to be set up by the Government; (b) if so, the details of its aims and objectives; (c) whether the Commission has made any recommendations so far; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether it is proposed to revamp the Indian Forest Service in view of the present forest scenario; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes, Sir. Government has constituted the National Forest Commission on 7.02.2003 to review the working of forest and wildlife sector.

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(b) The Terms of Reference of the National Forest Commission is as under: (i) Review and assess the existing policy and legal framework and their impact in a holistic manner from the ecological, economic, social and cultural viewpoint. (ii) Examine the current status of forest administration and the forestry institutions both at all India and State level to meet the emerging needs of the civil society (iii) Make recommendations indicating specific policy options for achieving sustainable forest and wildlife management and ecological security (iv) Suggest ways and means to make forest administration more effective with a view to help to achieve the above policy options (v) Establish meaningful partnership and interface between forestry management and local communities including tribal. (c): No, Sir. (d): Does not arise. (e): No, Sir. (f): Does not arise. ************



BAN ON COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES NEAR MANGROVE FOREST AREAS

2167. SHRI BALASHOWRY VALLABBHANENI LAKSHMAN SINGH

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Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether mangrove forests protect the coastal areas and the river side areas from erosion and also protect the flora and fauna; (b) If so, whether during the recent past mangroves have been degraded and dwindled; (c) if so, the total area of mangroves and the percentage of decrease therein; and (d) the steps proposed to be taken to protect mangroves?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Mangroves do provide protection to coastal areas and their flora and fauna against erosion, cyclones and tidal waves but the extent of protection is variable and is a function of several factors. Mangroves are not found along fresh water rivers as mangroves require an appropriate mixture of saline and freshwater and soft substrate like mudflats to be able to grow and perpetuate. (b): It is true that the mangroves have been under increasing biotic and abiotic stresses during the recent past. (c): As per the State of Forest Report 2003, brought out by the Forest Survey of India, the total mangrove area in the country is 4,461 sq.km. The mangrove cover has shown a marginal net decrease of 21 sq.km. The decrease is notional and is more of a correction resulting from an improved resolution of the satellite imagery and consequential more accurate interpretation. (d): At present, the mangroves are protected through a range of regulatory measures like Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991; Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) studies under the EIA Notification, 1994 for specialised industries; monitoring of compliance and conditions imposed while according Environmental Clearance by Regional Offices of the Ministry and State Pollution Control Boards; enforcement of emission and effluent standards by industries and other entities and recourse to legal action against the defaulters. Mangroves located within the notified forest areas are also covered under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. *************

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DECLARATION AS PARKS

2200. SHRI DAWA NARBULA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government had declared Singalila Range at Darjeeling and Neora Forest at Kalimpong as National Parks recently; (b) if so, whether action is yet to be taken to improve these two National Parks even after being declared as National Parks; (c) if so, the reasons therefor; and (d) the action the Government proposes to take in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes Sir. As per reports received from State Government, Singalila National Park and Neora Valley National Park have been notified in 1992. (b): Yes Sir. Development and conservation works are being undertaken under Centrally Sponsored Schemes, State Plan and non-plan budgets as per the management plans prepared for them. (c): Does not arise. (d): Development works in the Singalila National Park and Neora Valley National Park include improvement of habitat for conservation of wildlife, release of captive bred Red Panda, strengthening of infrastructure, consolidation works, etc. Eco-development works are being implemented to associate the local communities in conservation works. ************

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APPROVAL UNDER FORESTS ACT, 1980

651. SHRI JASHUBHAI DHANABHAI BARAD: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the number of proposals received from the Government of Gujarat and granted

approval under Forests Act, 1980 during the last two years; (b) the reasons for delay in granting approval to pending proposals; and (c) the time by which all proposals received during the last two years would be

approved?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): 110 proposals received from Government of Gujarat have been granted in

principle approval timely under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 during the last two years.

(b): Does not arise. (c): 13 proposals are under process. Such proposals are examined according to the

procedure prescribed under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003, and the guidelines issued from time to time there under. The whole examination and the decision on the proposals is a continuous process, for which Central Government has prescribed a time limit of 60 days for itself for processing and taking decision on the complete proposal, under the rules.

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LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 657

ENCROACHMENT ON RIDGE AREAS

657. SHRI RAGHUNATH JHA With the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of Ridge area under encroachments in various parts of Delhi; (b) whether the Government has decided to remove all illegal encroachments there

from; and (c) if so, the details thereof alongwith the list of encroachers prepared?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARIAN MEENA)

(a) to (c): The information is being collected and will be laid on the table of the House.

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FOREST RIGHTS OF TRIBALS

265. SHRI PRABODH PANDA DHIRENDRA AGARWAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has taken steps to safeguard the rights of tribal people residing on forest lands for more than hundred years; (b) if so, the details thereof;

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(c) whether the Government has stopped the eviction process of forest dwellers; (d) if not, whether any rehabilitation package has been provided for them; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The Ministry of Environment and Forests has issued guidelines on 18.09.1990 under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for grant of traditional rights of forest dwellers, including tribals, over forest land. Such traditional rights over forest land include settlement of disputed claims over forest land, regularisation of eligible encroachment of forest land, conversion of forest villages into revenue villages and regularisation of eligible pattas/grants/leases over forest land. On the basis of the proposals received from the State Governments, about 3.66 lakh hectares of encroachment of forest land has been regularised and 511 forest villages have been converted into revenue villages under the guidelines dated 18.09.1990. This process of grant of traditional rights over forest land to forest dwellers, including tribals, came to a halt due to a ban imposed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India on de-reservation of forest land as well as regularisation of encroachment of forest land vide its orders dated 13.11.2000 and 23.11.2001 respectively. The Ministry is pursuing the matter with the Hon’ble Court to obtain a suitable modification in the orders so that grant of traditional rights over forest land could be continued further under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. (c): The Ministry of Environment and Forests, vide its letter dated 21.12.2004, has requested all the State/Union Territory Governments not to resort to eviction of forest dwellers, including tribals, other than ineligible encroachers of forest land till complete survey is carried out for recognition of such people and their rights on forest land as provided in the guidelines dated 18.09.1990 issued under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. These instructions were reiterated on 17.10.2005. On 03.11.2005, the Ministry has issued detailed revised guidelines for verification/recognition of such rights on forest land and again requested the State/Union Territory Governments to complete the entire process within a period of one year. (d)&(e): Rehabilitation package for the evicted ineligible encroachers, if any, needs to be provided by the concerned State/Union Territory Government.

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LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3885 TO BE ANSWERED ON 19-12-2005

DEVELOPMENT WORK IN FOREST AREAS

3885. SHRI D V SADANANDA GOWDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the activities like rural roads, small bridges and culverts, etc, are proposed to be included in the list of permissible activities to be undertaken on the diverted forests land; and

(b) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) & (b): The Ministry of Environment and Forests on 03.01.2005, has granted general approval for diversion of not more than one hectare of forests land in each case, for executing public utility works like schools, dispensary/hospital, electrical and telecommunication lines, drinking waster, rainwater harvesting structures, minor irrigation canals, no conventional sources of energy, skill up-gradation/vocational training centre, power sub stations, communication posts and police establishment like police stations/outposts/watch towers by government departments. The activities like rural roads, small bridges and culverts are not included in the general approval. Diversion of forests land for these activities will require prior approval from the Central Government under Forests (Conservation) Act, 1980. For this, the concerned user agency is required to submit the proposal in the prescribed format along with all relevant information/documents, through the concerned State/Union Territory Government, to the Central Government. ********


LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 651

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APPROVAL UNDER FORESTS ACT, 1980 651. SHRI JASHUBHAI DHANABHAI BARAD Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of proposals received from the Government of Gujarat and granted approval under Forests Act, 1980 during the last two years; (b) the reasons for delay in granting approval to pending proposals; and (c) the time by which all proposals received during the last two years would be

approved?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): 110 proposals received from Government of Gujarat have been granted approval

timely under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 during the last two years. (b): Does not arise.

(c): 13 proposals are under process. Such proposals are examined according to the procedure prescribed under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines issued from time to time thereunder. The whole examination and the decision on the proposals is a continuous process, for which Central Government has prescribed a time limit of 60 days for itself for processing and taking decision on the complete proposal, under the Rules.

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SPECIAL PERMISSION TO POLLUTING COMPANIES

829. SHRI JIVABHAI AMBALAL PATEL SHRI V.K. THUMMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether many companies causing pollution have been given special permission

to operate from the forest land despite enforcement of Forest Conservation Act, 1980;

(b) if so, the names of the such companies, State-wise; (c) whether the Government of Gujarat has forwarded the proposals of such

companies with its recommendations in this regard; (d) if so, the grounds on which such recommendations have been made; and (e) the reasons for recognising these grounds?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): No special permission has been granted to companies causing pollution to

operate from forest land in Gujarat under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. (c),(d)&(e): Does not arise

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GLOBAL WARMING

3494. SHRI M.A. KHARABELA SWAIN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the details of areas being affected by global warming in the country; and (b) the steps being taken to check the phenomenon from getting worst?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): As per information available with the Indian Meteorological Department, the surface air temperatures over the Indian subcontinent show a slight warming trend by about 0.40 C during the past 100 years. This warming trend is however, not uniform either in time or in space. Some seasons do not exhibit as much warming trend as the others and some regions of the country show lesser warming trend or even cooling trends. Significant warming trend occur over most parts of the peninsular region of the country. Many parts of the North-West India show cooling trends. However, Intergovernmantal Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in its third Assessment Report in 2001 has projected that globally averaged surface temperature would rise by 1.40 centigrade to 5.80 centigrade and the global mean sea level may raise by 0.09 to 0.88 m during 1990-2100 in the most tropical and sub-tropical regions. (b): As per the Kyoto Protocol, only developed countries are required to take steps to reduce their emissions. Developing countries including India have no such obligation of reducing emission of greenhouse gases. The wide range reforms aimed at accelerated economic growth in the past decade in the country include energy efficiency, energy conservation, power sector reforms, an active renewable energy programme, fuel switching to cleaner energy, afforestation and conservation of forests, steps to encourage efficient utilisation of coal; reduction of gas flaring and installation of waste heat

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recovery systems in the oil sector, standardisation of fuel-efficient irrigation pump-sets, rectification of existing pump-sets to make them more energy efficient, rationalisation of power tariffs and better cultivar practices in the agriculture sector, etc. ******



KYOTO PROTOCOL

4437. SHRI JYOTIRADITYA MADHAVRAO SCINDIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Kyoto Protocol of 1997 has come into effect, with US and Australia still refusing to be part of the accord; (b) if so, the details thereof: (c) the extent to which the developed countries have been complying with the Protocol by way of minimising emission of greenhouse gases and sharing technology with developing nations; and (d) the Government’s response to the US and Australia’s refusal to enter the accord?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) & (b): Yes, Sir. The Kyoto Protocol has come into force on February 16, 2005. Till date, 148 Parties including India have ratified the Kyoto Protocol. The United States of America and Australia have so far, not ratified the Kyoto Protocol. (c): The Kyoto Protocol prescribes quantified emission limitation/reduction of targets for developed countries Parties to the Protocol. Such developed country Parties have initiated actions to achieve their prescribed targets by the first commitment period of 2008-12. In addition, many developed country Parties are also participating in an emission trading arrangement through the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Kyoto Protocol and sharing technology with project sponsors in developing countries.

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(d): India is of the view that all developed country Parties having qualified emission limitation or reduction commitments should fulfill their obligations under the Kyoto Protocol and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Non-compliance of/refusal by any developed country Party to the Kyoto commitments is likely to affect adversely international efforts to address the climate change issue. **********



STUDY ON GREENHOUSE GASES

1113. SHRI K.C. SINGH BABA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has conducted any study to find out the extent of emission of greenhouse gases and their possible ill effects on the economy of the country in the near future; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the steps taken by the Government to check the increasing emission of green house gases?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)to(c): As per the study of National Communication conducted for the reporting year 1994, it has been estimated that India emitted 793 million tonnes of CO2, 18.08 million tonnes of methane and 0.178 million tonnes of N2O. It is informed that as per the Kyoto Protocol, only developed countries have commitments to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and developing countries including India have no such binding commitments. India accounts for only 3 per cent of the global greenhouse gas emissions and our per capita emissions are very small as compared with developed countries. Third Assessment Report of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) states that with rise in

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average surface temperature and mean sea level during 1990-2100, potential yields of cereal crops in most tropical and sub-tropical regions are projected to decrease and population in low lying coastal areas and small islands would be at risk. ***********



GLOBAL WARMING

3785 SHRI BASUDEB ACHARIA P. POOKUNHI KOYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the details of discussion held in G-8 Summit on greenhouse gas emission and climate change; (b) whether developed countries have agreed to provide additional finance and transfer of cleaner, low-emission and cost-effective technologies to India to combat climatic change; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) the official stand taken by India on greenhouse gas emission; (e) whether global warming threatens to inundate low lying areas of the country; and (f) if so, the measures proposed/taken to combat such a threat?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The leaders of G8 countries at Gleneagles discussed mainly the following issues with regard to taking further action on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. # Transforming the way we use energy

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# Powering a cleaner future # Promoting networks for research and development # Financing the transition to cleaner energy # Managing the impact of climate change # Tackling illegal logging (b) & (c): The leaders of G8 agreed to take forward research, development and diffusion of energy technologies in identified sectors. Regarding financing the transition to cleaner energy, G8 leaders inter-alia, supported a market-led approach to encourage energy efficiency and accelerating investment and the deployment of cleaner energy technologies. However, there was no direct reference to India regarding provision of additional finance and transfer of cleaner, low-emission and cost effective technologies to combat climate change. (d): India reiterated its commitment to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol and advocated that developing countries should take action on the basis of equity and in accordance with their common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. Developing countries including India are not expected to take any binding targets on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. (e) & (f): The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in its Third Assessment Report has projected that the global mean sea level may rise by 0.09 to 0.88 meter during 1990-2100 in most tropical and sub-tropical regions. However, lots of uncertainties are associated with these projections due to lack of knowledge of the impacts in various sectors at regional/sub-regional level. The Government has taken several steps to do vulnerability assessment of various aspects of climate change including rise in sea level. Some of the national measures taken to reduce green house gas intensity of our economy include energy efficiency, energy conservation, renewable energy programmes, fuel switching to cleaner energy, afforestation and better cultivation practices. **********



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765. SHRI JIVABHAI AMBALAL PATEL SHRI V.K. THUMMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Pune based Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and UK’s Hadley

Centre for Climate Prediction and Research have through a joint study predicted that global warming will adversely affect agriculture, bio-diversity, disease pattern and water availability in India;

(b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; (c) the extent to which Indian agriculture and ecology is likely to adapt to these

changes; and (d) the strategy evolved to meet the challenges of global warming?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The Indo-UK study ‘Investigating the impacts of Climate Change in India’ shows

that climate change represents an additional stress on ecological and socio-economic systems including agriculture, biodiversity, disease pattern and water availability in the country which is already facing the pressures to urbanisation, industrialisation and other economic activities.

(b)&(c): The existing policy framework in India together with wide-ranging reforms is

aimed at accelerated economic growth relating to energy efficiency, energy conservation, power sector reforms and active renewable energy programme. The steps include the following:

• fuel switching to cleaner energy, • afforestation and conservation of forests, • steps to encourage efficient utilisation of coal, • reduction of gas flaring and installation of waste heat recovery systems in the oil

sector, • standardisation of fuel-efficient irrigation pump-sets,

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• rectification of existing pump-sets to make them more energy efficient, • rationalisation of power tariffs and better practices in the agriculture sector, etc.

In so far as adaptation to climate change is concerned, various initiatives had been taken by the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) and Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) in case of agriculture and forestry sectors to adapt to likely climate change in different eco-system. (d): The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and

the Kyoto Protocol are two multilateral environmental agreements addressing the issues related to climate change. India is a Party to both these agreements and is fulfilling its obligations in terms of inventorisation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the specified sectors. As of now, developed countries have obligations under the Kyoto Protocol to reduce their GHG emissions while there is no such obligation on developing countries.

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HAZARDOUS WASTES




HAZARDOUS WASTE UNITS

515. SHRI ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY NIKHIL KUMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Ministry of Environment & Forests has directed the various State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Centres to submit their reports about implementation of its orders on hazardous waste units; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether there is an increase of hazardous waste units in the country and there is no proper check on them; and; (d) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by the Government to check the spread of hazardous waste units?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The Ministry has written on h November 10, 2003 to all the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and the Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) of Union Territories to submit an Action Taken Report on the implementation of the orders dated 14.10.2003 of the Supreme Court regarding hazardous waste management. As per the information made available by the SPCBs/PCCs and as contained in the report of the High Power Committee constituted by the Supreme Court on management of hazardous wastes, there are 13011 units generating hazardous wastes in the country as per

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the Hazardous Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989. (c)&(d): Based on the new definition of hazardous wastes in the Hazardous Wastes (Management & Handling) Amendment Rules, 2003, steps have been taken by the SPCBs/PCCs to identify all hazardous waste generating units. It is expected that the number of hazardous waste generating units may increase due to the new definition of hazardous waste in the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Amendment Rules, 2003. In addition to regulations, new and innovative concepts such as Corporate Responsibility for Environment Protection (CREP), Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and green production are being promoted. Waste minimisation and recycling/reprocessing of wastes are also encouraged and regulated. ********




ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND TECHNOLOGY GUIDELINES ON USED/WASTE OIL

326. SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the quantity of waste oil recycled/re-refined in the year 2004-05; (b) whether Dr. Thyagarajan Committee has formulated any Environmentally Sound Technology (EST) guidelines in respect of re-refining/recycling of used/waste oil; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the reaction of the Government thereto?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The quantities of used oil re-refined and waste oil recycled during the year 2004-2005, calculated on the basis of the units registered and full utilisation of their registered capacities are 40,615 KL and 51,810 KL respectively. (b) to (d): Steps have been initiated by the Supreme Court Monitoring Committee (SCMC) headed by Dr. G. Thyagarajan to formulate the Environmentally Sound Technology (EST) guidelines for used and waste oil by constituting a sub-Committee of the SCMC. ********



MISUTILISATION OF EST GUIDELINES

5418. SHRI KIRTI VARDHAN SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Environmentally Sound Technologies (EST) used by firms engaged in the recycling/re-refining of used/waste oil was as per rule 21(1) of Hazardous Waste Rules; (b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; (c) whether the Government has received any objections from certain Public representatives and industries on the draft EST guidelines on Central Pollution Control Board`s (CPCB) web site; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto alongwith the details of action taken against the units which have misused registration in the past;

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(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): As per Rule 21(1) of the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended in 2003, re-refiners and recyclers are required to use only environmentally sound technologies while recycling and re-refining of waste oil or used oil respectively. In case of used oil, re-refiners using acid clay process or modified acid clay process are required to adopt other Environmentally Sound Technologies (ESTs) as given under Rule 21(1)(a) to 21(1)(d) of the Hazardous Wastes (Management & Handling) Amendment Rules, 2003. (c): The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is reported to have received representations on the draft guidelines formulated by it for recycling of waste oil and re-refining of used oil. These covered the following submissions:

(i) Use of continuous process technology for re-refining of used oil; (ii) Batch process based re-refining should not be permitted; (iii) The technology for waste oil recycling and re-refining of used oil specified in the Rules. The Expert Committee constituted by the CPCB on consideration of representations has maintained that: (i) Re-refining of used oil is not fractional distillation; (ii) Used oil is already a lubricating oil fraction and is only required to be re-refined; and (ii) The technologies mentioned under Rule 21(1)(a), 21(1)(b), 21(1)(c) and 21(1)(d) are for used oil re-refining. (d): Steps have been initiated by the Supreme Court Monitoring Committee (SCMC) to formulate the Environmentally Sound Technology (EST) guidelines for used and waste oils by constituting a sub-Committee of the SCMC. Action as per Hazardous Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules is taken against units in case of misuse of registration. ******

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POLLUTION DUE TO EFFLUENTS

1074. CHAUDHARY MUNAWWAR HASAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that the drinking water in Daurala town and nearby villages of Meerut district of Uttar Pradesh has been contaminated by the effluents emanating from Daurala Sugar Mills, Daurala Chemicals and Daurala Distillery located in the above mentioned town; (b) if so, whether it is a fact that the residents are suffering from several kinds of diseases spreading on account of foul smell in the atmosphere resulting in untimely casualities; (c) if so, whether the Union Government proposes to send any Central team there for testing the pollution level in water and atmosphere so that the residents can be protected from an epidemi; (d) if so, the time by which the team is likely to be sent; and (e) the steps being taken by the Government to protect the residents from atmospheric and water pollution?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): As per the information provided by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB), all the three units namely Daurala Sugar Works (sugar unit), Daurala Sugar Mills (chemical unit) and M/s Daurala Sugar Works (distillery unit) are complying with the environmental standards. The Daurala Sugar Works and Daurala Sugar Mill are discharging treated effluents into river Kali (east) in compliance with the stipulated norms. In case of the distillery unit, the treated effluent is partially used for bio-composting and the rest for ferti-irrigation to achieve zero discharge. (b)to(e): The UPPCB is regularly monitoring the performance of industries to ensure compliance to environmental standards. ************

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PHASING OUT OF MERCURY EQUIPMENTS

6819. SHRI TATHAGATA SATPATHY SHIVAJI ADHALRAO PATIL ANANDRAO VITHOBA ADSUL RAVI PRAKASH VERMA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that mercury equipment in hospitals may cause serious health problem to the general public if not handled properly and disposed of like general wastes without precaution; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether there is no regulation and safeguards for handling mercury in the hospitals across the country; and (d) if so, the steps taken by the Government for proper usage and disposal of mercury equipments and its gradual phase out from hospitals ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): There are no known cases of health problems resulting from the involvement of mercury in hospitals. The breakage of mercury thermometers may lead to spillage of some mercury which is supposed to be collected as a part of the hospitals’ health and safety practices. The disposal of mercury bearing waste, irrespective of the source of generation containing mercury and mercury compounds equal to or greater than 50 mg. per kilogram is required to be disposed of only as per the requirement of the Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules as amended in May 2003. It is for the State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees to ensure collection/disposal of the mercury/mercury bearing waste in the healthcare facilities in

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the respective State/UT as per the provisions of these Rules. (c) & (d): In so far as the Central Government hospitals are concerned, they follow the guidelines laid down in the Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules as amended in May 2003. The mercury waste generated from the broken thermometer, B.P. measuring apparatus, etc., is collected and recycled. The mercury thermometers/sphygmomanometers used traditionally for measuring body temperature/blood pressure have been replaced in some countries due to environmental concerns. However, in replacement of these instruments, there are also concerns in many countries about the availability, affordability and accuracy of alternative devices. **********

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HEALTH



BAN ON MOBILE PHONES

941. SHRI PRABODH PANDA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is contemplating to formulate a law to ban the use of mobile phones in hospitals and nursing homes: (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the frequent use of mobile phones is dangerous to health; (d) if so, whether the Government will set up an expert committee to look into the matter; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (e): According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the World Health Organisation (WHO) is conducting research through international agency to identify links between use of mobile phones and its ill effects. However, according to published literature of WHO and other agencies, there is no conclusive evidence of adverse health effect of use of mobile phones on human beings. At present there is no proposal to formulate a law banning the use of mobile phones in hospitals and nursing homes. *********


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SPURIOUS HERBAL PRODUCTS

382. SHRI BHUPENDRA SINGH PRABHAT SINGH SOLANKI

Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that the manufacture of spurious herbal products is growing rapidly in the country; (b) if so, whether the Government proposes to take concrete steps to check it; (c) if so, the details of such steps and the time by which such steps are likely to be taken; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI AMBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a): No authentic information is available regarding manufacture of spurious herbal products, although existence of spurious Ayurveda, Unani and Homoeopathy drugs have been reported in some parts of the country. (b) to (d): Section 17 of the Drugs & Cosmetics Act provides for punishment of misbranded, adulterated and spurious drugs. Action against violation of the law is to be taken by the State Drugs Licensing Authorities. On its part, the Central Government has issued instructions and guidelines to follow the prescribed pharmacopoeial standards and comply with the provisions of Good Manufacturing Practices. Financial support has also been provided for strengthening the State Drug Testing Laboratories and enforcement mechanism. *****



COMBATING MALARIA

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378. SHRI JUAL ORAM Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) the details of the number of people who died due to malaria during the last three years and the current financial year, state-wise; and (b) steps taken/being taken to check the spread of malaria and to stop the untimely death of people in the country, particularly in Orissa?

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

(SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): The number of deaths due to Malaria, State-wise, during 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 (provisional) as per reports received from the State Health Authorities are given in Annexure. (b): The State of Orissa has reported 333 deaths in the year 2003 and 189 deaths during 2004. The strategy adopted by the Government for effective control of Malaria are:-

• Early diagnosis and prompt treatment of malaria cases

• Integrated vector control

• Early detection and containment of malaria outbreak

• Information, Education and Communication (IEC) for personal protection and community involvement for malaria control.

• Training and Capacity Building of Medical and Para-medical workers.

• Monitoring and evaluation.

• Efficient Management Information System (MIS).

The following steps have been taken to reduce deaths due to malaria in the country including Orissa:- 1.Training of the Medical Officers and Para-medicals of Primary Health Centres/Community Health Centres and Dispensaries in identification and treatment of severe and complicated malaria cases and referring it to first referral unit i.e. Community Health Centre (CHC) or district Hospitals for the clinical management. In the State of Orissa, 387 Medical Officers and 21406 Para-medicals have been trained during 2003-04 and 2004-05.

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2.Establishment of Drug Distribution Centres (DDCs)/ Fever Treatment Depots (FTDs) in every village. In the State of Orissa, 41742 DDCs and 13075 FTDs have been established for making anti-malaria drugs available to fever cases at the village level. 3.The supply of Quinine Injection and Arteether Injection to Primary Health Centres, Community Health Centres and District Hospitals for management of severe and complicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria cases.

ANNEXURE DEATHS DUE TO MALARIA FROM 2001 ONWARDS STATE/UT 2001 2002 2003 2004 (Provisional) Deaths Deaths Deaths Deaths Andhra Pradesh 1 0 3 2 Arunachal Pradesh 14 0 0 0 Assam 122 72 53 47 Bihar 0 2 1 0 Chattisgarh 32 3 4 2 Goa 12 15 1 7 Gujarat 19 17 65 0 Haryana 0 0 0 0 Himachal Pradesh 0 0 0 0 Jammu & Kashmir 0 0 0 0 Jharkhand 21 31 13 38 Karnataka 21 33 22 24 Kerala 9 8 7 11 Madhya Pradesh 81 30 22 0 Maharashtra 50 43 85 54 Manipur 5 9 17 7 Meghalaya 17 41 38 19 Mizoram 43 35 48 66 Nagaland 1 0 0 0 Orissa 305 465 333 189 Punjab 0 0 1 0 Rajasthan 36 11 66 0 Sikkim 0 0 0 3 Tamil Nadu 0 0 0 0 Tripura 9 5 13 13 Uttaranchal 0 0 0 0 Uttar Pradesh 15 0 0 0

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West Bengal 191 152 214 131 A&N Islands 1 1 0 0 Chandigarh 0 0 0 0 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 0 0 0 0 Daman & Diu 0 0 0 0 Delhi 0 0 0 0 Lakshadweep 0 0 0 0 Pondicherry 0 0 0 0 All India Total 1005 973 1006 613 **********



TOXIC FREE AYURVEDIC DRUGS

1104. SHRI UDAY SINGH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether most of the Ayurvedic drugs sold in the country contain dangerous level of lead, mercury and arsenic; (b) if so, the facts thereof; (c) whether such Ayurvedic drugs are even exported to other countries and bringing bad name to the nation; (d) if so, the facts thereof; and (e) the steps taken by the Government to ensure that the firms manufacturing Ayurvedic drugs are toxic free?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (d): Manufacturing of Ayurvedic drugs is regulated by the provisions of Drugs & Cosmetics Act and the Rules framed thereunder. The drugs are required to be produced in accordance with the pharmacopoeial

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standards and the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). There are provisions for punishment if the drugs are found toxic. (e): Government have taken following steps to ensure safety of Ayurvedic Medicines: i) Manufacturing Licenses is mandatory wherein the medicines are prepared under the supervision of qualified persons, following proper procedures. ii) The medicines should be prepared as per Ayurvedic Formulary of India by following the Pharmacopoeial standards. iii) Medicines are prepared under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) under Schedule `T` of the Drugs and Cosmetic Rules. This is mandatory. iv) The Schedule E I of Drugs & Cosmetic Rules provides guidelines to use toxic ingredients after proper purification etc. v) Government have initiated studies through Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) Laboratories and Central Council of Research in Ayurveda and Siddha (CCRAS) to estimate the heavy metals, pesticides and microbial load in the drugs. vi) CCRAS is also working to study the safety profile of Ayurvedic medicines. *******




DENGUE AND MALARIA CASES

446. SHRI SANAT KUMAR MANDAL Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) the number of Dengue and Malaria cases reported in the country during each of the last three years and till date, State-wise; (b) whether there has been an increase in these cases as compared to the last two years; (c) if so, the reasons therefor; and (d) the preventive measures taken/being taken to control Dengue and Malaria?

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ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a)to(d): The number of Dengue and Malaria Cases, State-wise, as reported by the State Health authorities is given in the Annexure I & II. The incidence of Malaria has been showing declining trend over the last two years. The total number of positive cases reported during the year 2002 were 1.84 million which declined to 1.74 million cases in the year 2004. The incidence of Dengue has been variable during the last 2 years. Although the number of cases reported during the year 2003 were more than those during the year 2002, there has been a decline in the number of Dengue Cases in 2004 as compared to those in 2003. The variation in the occurrence of vector borne diseases like Malaria and Dengue is dependent on environmental conditions viz. temperature, rainfall, topography of the area and developmental activities resulting in mosquitogenic conditions. The strategies for control of malaria includes surveillance, early diagnosis and prompt treatment of cases, sustainable vector control including indoor residual spray with insecticide treated bednets, use of larvivorous fish, etc. besides training, Information, Education, Communication (IEC) to enlist community involvement. For malaria control, Government of India provides medicines, insecticides and larvicides as per the approved policy. The programme is implemented and monitored by the State Health Authorities and operational costs are borne by the State Governments. North-Eastern States are being provided 100% support for the programme implementation including operational cost since December 1994. State of Sikkim has been included as a part of the North-Eastern Region for such support since 2003. 1045 PHCs predominantly inhabited by tribals in 100 districts in eight States namely Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa and Rajasthan are being provided additional support since December, 1997, including operational expenses under Enhanced Malaria Control Project (EMCP) with World Bank assistance. Further, Seven North-Eastern States, Jharkhand, Orissa & West Bengal have been included under Intensified Malaria Control Project(IMCP) funded by the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM) to accelerate anti malaria activities e.g. early diagnosis and prompt treatment, promotion of insecticide treated bednets and behaviour change communication through community participation. The measures taken to control Dengue include: - - Disease and Vector surveillance - Case Management. - Early reporting of cases. - Vector control mainly through source reduction with community participation. - IEC Campaign for community awareness and their active involvement in source reduction and personal protection measures.

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ANNEXURE-I

DENGUE CASES AND DEATHS Sl.No. State 2002 2003 2004 2005 C D C D C D C D 1 Andhra Pradesh 61 3 95 5 230 1 0 0 2 Bihar 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 Chandigarh 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 Delhi 45 2 2882 35 606 3 0 0 5 Goa 0 0 12 2 3 0 0 0 6 Gujarat 40 0 249 9 117 4 0 0 7 Haryana 3 0 95 4 25 0 0 0 8 Karnataka 428 1 1226 7 291 2 14 0 9 Kerala 219 2 3546 68 686 8 73 1 10 Maharashtra 370 18 772 45 856 22 0 0 11 Sikkim 0 0 0 0 12 0 0 0 12 Punajab 27 2 848 13 52 0 0 0 13 Rajasthan 325 5 685 11 207 5 0 0 14 Tamil Nadu 392 0 1600 8 1027 0 0 0 15 Uttar Pradesh 0 0 738 8 8 0 0 0 16 West Bengal 0 0 0 0 32 0 0 0 17 Pondicherry 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 18 D & N Haveli 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Total 1926 33 12754 215 4153 45 87 1

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Annexure-II

MALARIA SITUATION 2002 2003 2004# 2005@ Sl.No. STATE/U.T. Posi- Pf Posi- Pf Posi- Pf Posi- Pf tive tive tive tive 1 Andhra Pradesh 38053 21416 35995 20864 33856 18104 3346 2032 2 Arunachal Pradesh 46431 7080 34810 5870 5487 738 NR NR 3 Assam 89601 55825 76570 48668 43813 31168 NR NR 4 Bihar 3683 1705 2662 1080 1720 304 8 3 5 Chhattisgarh 235434 170487 194419 144028 175579 134225 NR NR 6 Goa 16818 3655 11370 1638 7839 1387 555 69 7 Gujarat 82966 16244 130744 31697 220630 65688 4577 2127 8 Haryana 936 41 4374 500 10008 168 70 11 9 Himachal Pradesh 176 0 133 7 126 7 1 0 10 Jammu & Kashmir 455 10 320 11 242 8 4 0 11 Jharkhand 126589 52892 118902 37482 73893 36189 NR NR 12 Karnataka 132584 29702 100220 23560 80643 28374 9229 2099 13 Kerala 3360 375 2575 440 2985 375 - - 14 Madhya Pradesh 108818 31545 99708 31390 127123 49281 3943 2008 15 Maharashtra 45568 14634 62947 30340 69992 30019 5619 3010 16 Manipur 1268 601 2589 1168 2539 731 99 34 17 Meghalaya 17918 11095 18366 12338 16576 14220 NR NR 18 Mizoram 7859 3932 7293 4167 7830 4170 NR NR 19 Nagaland 3945 234 3370 277 2049 116 NR NR 20 Orissa 473223 393547 421323 350619 372960 312978 NR NR 21 Punjab 250 18 379 35 1630 21 10 2 22 Rajasthan 68627 5356 142738 16481 104218 7263 NR NR 23 Sikkim 53 7 278 41 160 33 0 0 24 Tamil Nadu 34523 2520 43604 3758 41686 2800 6085 389 25 Tripura 13319 10863 13807 10800 16600 12391 933 744 26 Uttaranchal 1659 120 2350 265 1255 36 31 1 27 Uttar Pradesh 90199 2512 101411 2404 81142 1533 1265 50 28 West Bengal 194421 60726 233802 76864 220853 60262 6771 2448 29 A.N.lslands 865 158 753 148 679 119 NR NR 30 Chandigarh 157 6 84 5 199 6 5 0 31 D & N Haveli 493 100 468 106 787 202 61 2

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32 Daman & Diu 173 32 141 21 118 18 5 0 33 Delhi 694 6 839 27 521 1 NR NR 34 Lakshadweep 8 0 6 0 2 0 0 0 35 Pondicherry 103 2 63 2 43 1 4 0 All India Total 184122 897446 186940 257101 1725783 804936 42621 15029

#Provisional and @ Received till date NR Not Received ********



CONTAMINATION OF WATER

1095. SMT. MANEKA GANDHI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether it is a fact that incidents of arsenic contamination of water are increasingly coming to light since quite some time; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the year-wise details of incidents since 1994-95 together with names of districts/villages most affected; (d) whether any special facility of medical treatment has been arranged for the victims and for elimination of arsenic contamination in the affected districts and villages of Uttar Pradesh; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

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

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(SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (e): The information is not centrally maintained. However, the same is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House. ********



DAMAGES CAUSED BY LAPTOP ON SPERM AND FERTILITY

358. DR. M. JAGANNATH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has conducted any study and assessed the damages on the users of laptop on their sperm and fertility; (b) if so the details thereof; and; (c) if not, the steps taken or proposed to be taken in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): The Government has not conducted any study to assess the damage on the users of laptop, who use their laptop positioned on their lap, on their sperm and fertility. However, recently a study conducted at State University of New York, USA indicated increase in scrotal temperature (2.6-2.8 C) in laptop computer users. The study has been published in Feb. issue of Human Reproduction Vol. 20.No.2, PP 452-455, 2005. Increase in scrotal temperature or transient scrotal hyperthermia has been reported to have a negative impact on spermatogenesis. Therefore, the authors have suggested further studies on this particular type of thermal exposure with laptop computers.

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EVALUATION OF WORKING OF LEGISLATION ON TOBACCO PRODUCTS

441. SHRI PRALHAD VENKATESH JOSHI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has taken up the evaluation of the working of Legislation it has brought in last year for prevention of promotion of tobacco products in the country; (b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; (c) the details of the number of cases the law enforcing agencies initiated against the violators directly or indirectly, State-wise ; (d) the details of the action initiated against the magazine published from Mumbai which had published an advertisement promoting a product of tobacco of an international brand; and (e) the details of the action taken by the government in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a)&(b): The central legislation to control and regulate use of tobacco products was enacted in the year 2003 and certain provisions were brought into effect in the year 2004 only. The State Governments which are the main implementing agencies have been advised to put in place appropriate mechanisms for proper enforcement. At present there is no proposal to evaluate the working of the said legislation. (c): The data relating to details of action initiated against the violators taken by enforcing agencies State-wise is not centrally maintained. (d) & (e): It came to the notice of the Government that a magazine published from Mumbai carried an advertisement promoting a tobacco product of an international brand, thus violating the law. The Government of Maharashtra was requested to initiate action against this magazine as per law. *********

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LEGISLATION ON SPURIOUS DRUGS

23. SHRI NIKHIL KUMAR ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Mashalkar Committee’s report on spurious drugs has recommended a legislation for the amendment of the penal provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940; (b) if so, whether the Government proposes to bring a legislation in this regard; (c) if so, the facts and details thereof; and (d) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to ensure that manufacture and sale of spurious drugs do not spread in the country?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a)to(d): Government of India had constituted a committee of experts on 27th January, 2003, under the Chairmanship of Dr. R. A. Mashelkar, D.G., CSIR to undertake a comprehensive review of the drug regulatory system in the country including evaluation of the extent of the problem of spurious and sub-standard drugs and to recommend remedial measures to deal with this problem effectively. The expert committee submitted its final report to the Government in November 2003. Based on the recommendations given by the committee in its report, Central Government had initiated steps to bring legislation for amending the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, on the line suggested by the committee. A bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha in December 2003, to amend the said Act. The salient amendments proposed under the Bill are given below: -

1. Enhancement of the punishments relating to spurious or adulterated drugs leading to death or grievous hurt within the meaning of Section 320 IPC upto punishment of death or imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than 10 years but which may extend to imprisonment for life and shall also be liable to fine of one lakh rupees or upto three times the value of the goods

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seized, whichever is higher. 2. Penalties for subsequent offences to be enhanced upto 10 years and with fine which shall not be less than one lakh rupees. 3. Offences relating to spurious or adulterated drugs to be made non-bailable and cognizable. 4. Provision for setting up of special courts to try offences of spurious or adulterated drugs. 5. To confer powers upon police officers not below the rank of sub-inspector or other designated officer to institute prosecutions under the said Act. 6. Provision for compounding of offences for minor offences under the Act. The Bill has since lapsed with the dissolution of previous Lok Sabha, and necessary action to re-introduce the Bill has been initiated by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The present Cabinet accorded approval for the introduction of Drugs and Cosmetics (Amendment) Bill, 2005, in the Parliament subject to certain modifications. The Bill is likely to be introduced during the current session of the Parliament along with necessary modifications. The proposed amendments will make the law deterrent to the offenders involved in the manufacture or sale of spurious drugs. The involvement of enforcing agencies like Police will help in speedy investigation to book the culprits and in controlling anti-social elements in such activities. A permanent mechanism is already in place to regulate manufacture and sale of drugs in the country including monitoring of drugs suspected to be spurious/fake in nature under the ambit of Drugs & Cosmetics Act which clearly defines sub-standard and spurious drugs and provides specific penalties for offenders involved in manufacture or sale of spurious drugs. The enforcement mechanism involves Central Drugs Control Organisation (CDSCO) in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which provides policy and technical guidance. The actual enforcement is the responsibility of State Government who has established separate Drug Control machineries in each State/UT. Manufacture of spurious/counterfeit/fake drugs is primarily a clandestine activity and trading in counterfeit products, including drugs, is reported world over. However, keeping in view the serious implications of spurious drugs on public health as well as the loss to genuine industry, the Government has taken the following measures to combat this menace:- (i) Detailed guidelines have been issued to the State Governments to undertake focused surveillance over possible movement of spurious drugs. (ii) A meeting of Health Ministers of all major States was especially convened in November 2002 to ensure

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action to check the menace of spurious drugs. The views that emerged in the meeting have been communicated to all State Governments in January 2003 for implementation. (iii) A Capacity Building Project with World Bank assistance has been taken up to provide substantial assistance to State Government to upgrade drug testing facilities or to establish new drug testing laboratories. It is expected to increase the number of samples tested in the country from about 36,000 samples to 1,00,000 samples per year and to reduce the reporting time to less than a month as against the present period from 3 to 6 months. In addition, the project envisages extensive training of the Central and State/UT drug regulatory staff and the concerned personnel from the Pharmaceutical Industry and a campaign for Information, Education and Communication (IEC) for the consumers. (iv) Specific training programmes for regulatory officials of State Government on logistics of intelligence work, prosecutions, etc. has been conducted with the assistance of FDA, Maharashtra. This would be a continuing activity. (v) In order to ensure efficient information exchange between drug regulatory officers in the country, in respect of licensing, sampling, prosecution, etc., a countrywide computer networking project has been undertaken by the Central Government. This will enable the Central Government to regularly monitor the enforcement activities and recommend corrective measures. (vii) Pharma industry and traders have been motivated to fight the menace of spurious drugs as a shared responsibility. A number of cases could be successfully detected through the initiative, taken by pharma industry involving hiring of retired intelligence/police officers.

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PACKED DRINKING WATER/MINERAL WATER

5964. SHRI K. JAYASURYA PRAKASH REDDY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the water supply by the Delhi Municipal Corporation meets the B.I.S. specifications for packaged

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drinking water; (b) if so, the details thereof ; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; (d) whether the PFA has made rules for packaged drinking water; (e) if so, the details of the Codex Standards for packaged drinking water; (f) the steps taken by the Government to ensure the observance of these standards in the water supplied by the Delhi Municipal Corporation ; (g) whether packaged drinking water differs from natural mineral water; and (h) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): The definition of ‘food’ under PFA Act, 1954 excludes ‘water’. Hence the water supplied through pipelines by Delhi Jal Board does not come under the purview of PFA Act, 1954. (d): Yes sir, (e): No packaged water shall contain substances or emit radioactivity in quantities that may be injurious to health. To this effect, all packaged water shall comply with the health-related requirements of the most recent ‘Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality’ published by the World Health Organisation. (f) The definition of ‘food’ under PFA Act, 1954 excludes ‘water’. Hence the water supplied through pipelines by Delhi Jal Board does not come under the purview of PFA Act, 1954. (g)&(h): The standards for packaged drinking water and mineral water have been laid down under PFA Rules, 1955. Packaged drinking water means water derived from any source of potable water which is subjected to treatments. Mineral water is obtained directly from natural or drilled sources from underground water bearing strata and not from public water supply. It is not subjected to any treatment other than filtration and decantation. It is packed close to the point of emergence of the source with particular hygienic precaution. ***********

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ICMR STUDY

4831. DR. RAM CHANDRA DOME Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Indian Council of medical Research (ICMR) has conducted any study on the workers of the stone/granite, mines and crushing industries regarding dust caused pollution and diseases; (b) if so, the findings of the study; and (c) the steps taken by the Government to implement the recommendations?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): ICMR`s Institute Desert Medicine Research Centre (DMRC), Jodhpur has conducted two studies on workers of sand stone quarries of Jodhpur district. The first study revealed high prevalence of silicosis and tuberculosis of lungs among sandstone quarry workers of Jodhpur district. The subsequent study established that dry mechanical drilling was the most important source of generation of the dust and wet drilling is the safer method of drilling to avoid generation of air born dust. Similar studies by ICMR`s institute National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad and its Regional Occupational Health Centre, Kolkata were conducted among Quartz stone crushers in Gujarat and Basalt stone crushers in Birbhum district of West Bengal, respectively. These studies have shown the prevalence of silicosis in workers of Gujarat and prevalence of pneumoconiosis in the workers of West Bengal due to dust caused pollution. (c): Since all the studies mentioned above have shown that wet drilling and crushing reduce the respirable dust levels. This information was disseminated in a workshop involving owners of factories, workers, factory inspectorate and local administration. During the study and due to subsequent interventions, most of the dry drilling units have been converted into wet drilling units. **********

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MALARIA RESEARCH CENTRE

4855. SHRI ANANTA NAYAK Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has a proposal to set up Malaria Research Centre in every State particularly in Malaria prone areas; (b) if so, the number of such Malaria Research Centres to be set up in the country, State-wise; (c) the efforts made by the Government to eradicate Malaria from the Malaria prone areas in the country; and (d) the details thereof?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): The Indian Council of Medical Research established Malaria Research Centre (MRC) in year 1997 to provide technical support to the National Programme. At present, there is one Malaria Research Centre (MRC) at Head Quarter in Delhi and 12 Integrated Diseases Vector Control (IDVC) units in different parts of the country. There is no proposal for setting up Malaria Research Centre in every State. (c) & (d): Government is implementing National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme in the entire country which also includes malaria. The Programme has inter-alia components like early diagnosis and prompt treatment of malaria cases, integrated vector control, information, education communication for generating awareness, capacity building by training of health care workers and NGOs on prevention and control activities in Malaria, monitoring and evaluation through management information system. Under the programme, the Government, apart from providing financial assistance, provides commodities support like anti-malarial drugs, insecticides and larvicides to the States. For effective control of the disease burden in the malaria prone areas, intensive malaria control measures are being implemented in the endemic States. Seven North-Eastern States and Sikkim are being given 100% assistance in this regard. Hundred hard core malaria and predominantly tribal districts of the States of Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhatisgarh, Orissa and Rajasthan have been included under Enhanced Malaria Control Project (EMCP) for additional inputs to intensify anti-malaria activities. 94 districts of ten States including 65

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districts of seven North-Eastern States, Seven districts of Jharkhand States, 6 districts of West Bengal and 16 districts of Orissa have been included under intensified malaria control project funded by the Global Fund for Aids. Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATMP) which is to be implemented from 2005-06 for a period of five years.

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ILL EFFECT OF FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP

6822. SHRI DEVARAKONDA VITTAL RAO Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that the high fructose corn syrup found in beverages and soft aerated drinks in particular is playing a major role in increasing the epidemic of obesity which is afflicting a large number of children in the country; (b) if so, whether the Government has carried out any research in this regard; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the action taken by the Government thereon ?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (d): According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the high fructose corn syrup provides empty calories. When consumed in excess by the children without adequate physical activities it may lead to development of overweight and obesity. However, the Council has not carried out any study in this regard. The Central Government has developed dietary guidelines and Information, Education and Communication (IEC) material wherein excess consumption of soft aerated beverages has been discouraged. Since creating awareness through information, education and communication is the main strategy to tackle this issue, this component has been incorporated in the National Programme for Control of Diabetes and Cardiovascular

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Diseases (CVD) for which this Ministry has sought in principle approval from the Planning Commission. ***********



IMPACT OF ADULTERATION

5930. SHRI MAGUNTA SREENIVASULU REDDY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that adulteration is rampant in food particles which leads to kidney damage, sterility, brain damage to cancer; (b) if so, the measures initiated by the Government to check adulteration; (c) the agencies and testing laboratories set up in the country for the purpose; and (d) details thereof?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): As per the latest information available from various Food (Health) Authorities who are enforcing the PFA Act, 1954 in their respective States/UTs the average percentage of adulteration (on the basis of food samples lifted & tested) during the years 1998 to 2002 is 10.3. The standards of various food articles have been laid down under the PFA Act, 1954 and Rules framed there under. The tolerance limit for pesticides, chemicals, toxic substances and other contaminants have also been laid down under the said rules. Food articles sold in the market are required to conform to the standards laid down under the provisions of the said Rules. The implementation of PFA Act and Rules is entrusted with the Food (Health) Authorities of the States/UTs. The enforcement staff of the States/UTs draws random samples of various food articles under the provisions of the said Act and Rules. Action is taken against the offenders where samples of food articles do not conform to the prescribed standards. (c) & (d): The PFA Act, 1954 and Rules framed thereunder are implemented in the States/UTs through their Food (Health) Authorities who are responsible for superintendence and enforcement of the Act/Rules in their

421

respective States/UTs. There are 72 laboratories in different States/UTs functioning under the control of a Public Analyst for analysis of food articles under PFA Act/Rules. In addition there are 4 Central Food Laboratories which analyse the food samples received from different trial courts as per their assigned jurisdiction. **********



AMENDMENT IN THE FOOD ADULTERATION ACT

5806. SHRI K. JAYASURYA PRAKASH REDDY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act specifically states that it does not cover water and medicines; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the rules framed for water by PFA are legal and binding; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether the Government has any proposal to amend the PFA Act in order to include and regulate water; and (f) if so, by when the Act is likely to be amended by the Government?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): The definition of food under Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 is as follows: -

422

`Food` means any article used as food or drink for human consumption other than drugs and water and includes :- (a) any article which ordinarily enters into, or is used in the composition or preparation of human food, (b) any flavouring matter or condiments, and (c) any other article which the Central Government may having regard to its use, nature, substance or quality, declare by notification in the official Gazette, as food for the purposes of this Act. (c) & (d): `Packaged drinking water` has been declared as `food` under Section 2 (v)(c) of PFA Act, 1954 vide notification GSR 202 (E) dated 21.3.2001. Thereafter, standards for packaged drinking water were prescribed under PFA Rules, 1955 vide notification GSR 760(E) dated 29.9.2000 which came into force on 29.9.2001. These standards are legal and binding. (e) & (f): There is a proposal to amend the definition of food to include water in the definition of food under PFA Act, 1954. The matter is under consideration of GOM constituted for consideration of the Food Safety and Standards Bill. **********



FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON TOBACCO CONTROL

5962. SHRI IQBAL AHMED SARADGI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Commonwealth Medical Association has urged Health Ministers of the Commonwealth countries to vote for full implementation of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Globally; (b) if so, whether the World Health Organisation has adopted a sweeping anti-tobacco treaty in unprecedented global push to regulate a product that kills one in two of its regular users; (c) whether India has decided to implement it; and (d) if so, the steps being considered by the Government in this regard?

423

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (d): The Framework Convention for Tobacco Control (FCTC) is the first international treaty negotiated under the auspices of the World Health Organisation (WHO), aimed at curbing tobacco-related deaths and disease. The FCTC was unanimously adopted at the 56th World Health Assembly on 21st May 2003. India is a signatory to this Convention and has already translated important provisions of FCTC into its domestic law by legislating ‘The Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003’ in May 2003. The legislation include total ban on direct and indirect advertisements of all tobacco products; prohibition on sponsorship of sports and cultural events which encourage tobacco use; ban on smoking in public places; ban on sale of tobacco products to minors; ban on sale of cigarettes and tobacco products within a radius of 100 yards of educational institutions; mandatory pictorial depiction of warnings like skull and cross bones and such others for the benefit of illiterate persons; provision of specified health warnings and clear indication of nicotine and tar contents on packets and cartons of all tobacco products. Some of the provisions of the Act like ban on direct and indirect advertisement of all tobacco products, in any form, ban on smoking in public place, ban on sale of tobacco products to minors and sale within a radius of 100 yards of educational institutions have already been implemented. **********



BAN ON TINNED MILK

1646. SHRI HANSRAJ GANGARAM AHIR Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that World Health Organisation in its convention has expressed opinion that tinned milk may prove fatal to infants as reported in Nagpur Edition of `Dainik Bhaskar` dated May 27, 2005; (b) If so, whether the Government proposes to impose ban on tinned milk products in the country; and (c) if so, the step taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard?

424

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): The 58th World Health Assembly Session of World Health Organisation held in May 2005 recognised the need for parents and caregivers to be fully informed of evidence based public health risks of intrinsic contamination of powered infant formula and the potential for introduced contamination and the need for safe preparation, handling and shorage of prepared infant formula. (b) & (c): There is no proposal to impose ban on powered infant formula. The Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules 1955 prescribes the standard of infant formula which include safety parameters for microbiological contamination and their labeling requirements. The label of the product is required to give statements such as superiority of mother`s milk, need of its use, proper method of its use, instruction for appropriate and hygiene preparation, shorage conditions, feeding chart, instructions for use and instructions for discarding left over feed, etc. **********



INVOLVING HEALTH PROFESSIONALS IN COMBATING HARMFUL EFFECTS OF USE OF

TOBACCO

3444. SHRI KINJARAPU YERRANNAIDU Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has any proposal to involve health professionals in addressing the problem of harmful effects of the use of tobacco in the country; (b) if so, whether the Government has prepared any action plan in this regard ; (c) if so, whether the Government would taken the assistance of World Health Organisation in this regard ;and (d) if so, the details thereof?

425

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (d): The global theme for the World No Tobacco Day this year was `Role of Health Professionals and Tobacco Control`. The focus of this year`s theme is to sensitise health professionals such as physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, midwives, physiologists, anganwadi workers, health workers and others who play a key role in addressing the problem of harmful effects of the use of tobacco. The Government in collaboration with WHO, organised trainings, seminars and workshops for the health professionals all over the country. A national workshop for key members of various health professionals` associations was organised in Delhi on May 31, 2005 to sensitise the health professionals from different medical fields and the role they can play in control of tobacco menace. ************



UNSCRUPULOUS USE OF PESTICIDES IN HOSPITALS

1611. SMT. P. SATHEEDEVI IQBAL AHMED SARADGI SAMBASIVA RAYAPATI RAO ARCHANA NAYAK Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether unscrupulous use of heavy doses of pesticides have been detected in one of the Government hospitals and four leading hospitals in Delhi; (b) if so, the details thereof ; (c) whether the Government has conducted any study to determine pesticide abuse in city hospitals resulting in diseases such as cancer, genetic damages, etc; and (d) if so, the steps taken/proposed to be taken to check the same?

426

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (d): Health being the State subject, it is for the Government of N.C.T. of Delhi to look into such matters in respect of private hospitals. As regards Central Government hospitals in Delhi, unscrupulous use of heavy doses of pesticides have not been detected and no study has been conducted by the Government in this regard. **********



OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES

2563. SHRI RAMAKRISHNA BADIGA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether quarrying activities in the country are causing a number of occupational diseases; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the remedial steps taken by the Government to deal with the same?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c): According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) the quarrying work is done manually or by process of drilling and blasting. This can lead to accidents, injuries and exposure to noise and dust. Quarry works are exposed to the hazards of minerals which are being mined. In addition, exposure to silica, which is a usual constituent of the rocks results in hazards like respiratory problems like silicosis, chronic bronchitis and increased susceptibility to tuberculosis. Hearing loss due to acute and chronic noise exposure is also seen in drilling and blasting activities. The National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH), Ahmedabad which has been identified as the nodal

427

agency in the matters relating to occupational diseases, has developed a technology for dust control which showed reduction of 75 per cent-85 per cent of the air borne dust, which has been disseminated to the owners of factories, workers, factory inspectorate and local administration for necessary action.

************



ACCREDITATION POLICY FOR HOSPITALS

2593. SHRI ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is contemplating to implement accreditation policy for hospitals in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether under this system certain new rules and standards are likely to be followed in health sector; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the time by which new accreditation policy is likely to be implemented ?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (e): The Central Government is in the process of formulating standards and specifications for hospitals, nursing homes and other clinical establishments to ensure quality healthcare services which would inter alia lay down norms of assessment, accreditation, inspection, certification, regulation of such clinical establishments as well as maintenance of records. ***********

428



ILL EFFECTS OF RADIATIONS FROM MOBILE PHONES

3423. SHRI HANSRAJ GANGARAM AHIR Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that radiation emitted by mobile phones have harmful effects on brains of children; (b) if so, the steps being taken by the Government to save children from radiations emitted by mobile phones; (c) whether the Government has issued instructions to mobile companies for taking preventive steps in this regard; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (e): According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), World Health Organisation (WHO) is conducting research to identify links between use of mobile phone and its effects. However, according to the published literature of WHO and other agencies, there is no conclusive evidence of adverse health effect of use of mobile phones on human beings. **********



PHASING OUT OF MERCURY FROM HOSPITALS

429

4332. SHRI KULDEEP BISHNOI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has prepared any plan to phase out mercury from all Government and Private hospitals; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (DR.ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a) to (c): There are no known cases of health problems resulting from the involvement of mercury in hospitals. The breakage of mercury thermometers may lead to spillage of some mercury but the same is supposed to be collected as a part of the hospitals health and safety practices and mercury bearing waste. Irrespective of the source of generation, mercury and mercury containing compounds equal to or greater than 50-mg. per kilogram is required to be disposed of only as per the requirement of the Hazardous Waste (Management and Handling) Rules as amended in May 2003. While mercury thermometers/sphygmomanometers used traditionally for measuring body temperature/blood pressure have been replaced in some countries due to environmental concerns, there are also concerns in many countries about the availability, affordability and accuracy of alternative devices. At present, there is no proposal to phase out the use of mercury-based instruments in Government hospitals as also in private health facilities. ********




ILL EFFECTS OF JUNK FOOD

430

249. SHRI SURESH CHANDEL Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that junk food is fast gaining popularity in the metropolitan cities and people are getting quickly attracted towards it; (b) if so, whether the food experts world over have expressed concern at the increasing consumption of junk food; (c) whether various researches have proved that a large number of children and youths are falling victims to lethal diseases as a result of consumption of such food; (d) if so, whether the Government proposes to take steps to check the expanding junk food culture and also to save the people from its adverse impact; (e) if so, by when; and (f) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a)to(f): There is no specific definition for junk food. The pharse `junk food` is used to denote such food which have high levels of calories and have little enzyme producing vitamins and minerals. When such food is consumed, the body is required to produce its own enzymes to convert these empty calories into usable energy. This is not desirable as this enzymes producing function in our body should be reserved for the performance of vital metabolic reactions. There is an increasing trend particularly among school children and adolescent population to consume `junk food` which is rich in calories but low in nutritive value. However, there is no data on the extent of consumption of junk foods. There is a concern world over regarding increasing consumption of highly refined foods with only energy and little or no vitamins and minerals. There are studies to indicate that there is a positive correlation between consumption of foods with empty calories and chronic degenerative diseases as well as hypertension, obesity, cardio-vascular problems and glucose intolerance. A study conducted by All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) - Department of Science & Technology (DST) trial in 2002 found that the consumption of junk food is increasing in schools and adolescent population. The same study has shown that this trend and associated life style factors in urban adolescent and young adult population has resulted increase of non-communicable diseases among the young population. The need for education of general public to avoid junk food has increased and efforts are being made by

431

Government, nutritionists and dieticians to make people aware of their harmful effects. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has also prepared some IEC material advising avoidance of junk food by all age groups of the population. These materials have been circulated to all the States and are also displayed and distributed during ` health melas` organised by the Ministry. The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) has developed dietary guidelines for Indians, where it has been suggested that ready to eat foods should be consumed judiciously and free sugar should be used sparingly. **********



NORMS OF BIS FOR SOFT DRINKS

4336. SHRI RAVI PRAKASH VERMA ANANDRAO VITHOBA ADSUL RAJENDRA KUMAR GANESH SINGH SHIVAJI ADHALRAO PATIL Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the norms prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS) are being violated by the soft drinks manufacturers ; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Government has conducted any enquiry in this regard; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the steps taken by the Government against these manufacturers?

432

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (DR.ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a) & (b): The norms prescribed by BIS are voluntary in nature. It is not mandatory for the soft drinks manufacturers to comply with them unless they have obtained BIS certification for their product. (c) to (e): In view of above, the question does not arise. **********



INFECTIOUS DISEASES SPREAD BY SLAUGHTER HOUSES

1152. SHRI VIJAY KRISHNA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether people living close to legal/illegal slaughter houses are contracting infectious diseases; (b) if so, whether the Government proposes to conduct an enquiry into it; (c) if so, the details of diseases being spread alongwith the number of people infected by these slaughter houses, State-wise and Union Territory-wise; and (d) the action being taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (c) According to ICMR, Workers in slaughterhouses are exposed to various infectious diseases such as Brucellosis, Erysipeloid, Leptospirosis, Dermatophytosis and warts. These diseases are transmitted through contact with the infected animals or through the contamination of water. The data in respect of number of people infected by such diseases is not centrally maintained.

433

(d) State Pollution Control Boards have pursued slaughterhouses to set up requisite pollution control facilities to ensure proper management of waste. Slaughterhouses have also been asked to adopt modern slaughtering operations for good environmental management.

*********




AMENDMENTS IN PREVENTION OF FOOD ADULTERATION RULES

105. SHRI UDAY SINGH SHRINIWAS DADASAHEB PATIL Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has any proposal to bring amendments in the Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; (c) whether the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 has failed to check manufacture and sale of adulterated food items; and (d) if so, the steps taken/proposed to be taken in this regard?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS)

(a) to (d): A statement indicating the amendments carried out recently as well as those under process is

annexed. The PFA Act is implemented by the State Governments as per the information made available by various State/UT Governments, adulteration in food products is regularly checked at all the levels including at the level of manufacturers and retailers. The percentage of adulteration during last five

434

years has been in the range of 9.21 to 11.79. The State/UT Governments have been requested from time to time to keep a strict vigil on the quality of food products and to check adulteration of food products at all the levels.

435

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436

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE LOK SABHA


FACILITIES FOR WASTE MANAGEMENT

1264. SHRI P.C. THOMAS: Will the MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government is aware of the death of a doctor and several persons

connected with medical college, Koyyayam, due to Hepatitis and other diseases due to environmental hazards;

(b) if so, whether the Government has received any proposal of assistance from the

Government of Kerala or Medical College, Kottayam district, regarding facilities for waste management;

(c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the decision of the Government thereon?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a): The Central Government has not received any such report from Government of

Kerala (b): No, Sir (c)&(d): Does not arise.

***********

437

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE


INCREASE IN DENGUE AND MALARIA CASES

127. DR. M. JAGANNATH SHRI AJIT JOGI SHRI PRABHUNATH SINGH Will the MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state: (a) whether diseases like dengue and malaria are increasing at an alarming rate in the

country; (b) if so, the reasons therefore; (c) the number of dengue and malaria cases reported during the last three years and

current year till date, State-wise; (d) the number of deaths occurred during the said period, State-wise; (e) the details of the financial assistance provided for the eradication/prevention of

these diseases during the last three years and current year; (f) whether any target has been fixed for the eradication of malaria; and (g) if so, the effective measures taken by the Government for the prevention and

eradication of these diseases?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)to(d): The reported number of dengue cases and deaths by the States during 2001 to

2005 indicates that the highest number or cases (12754 and 251 deaths) were during the year 2003. These cases declined to 4153 with 45 deaths during 2004. In the current year, the States have reported 8876 cases and 64 deaths till November 16, 2005. The number of cases and deaths due to dengue as reported by the State Health Authorities is given at Annexure – I.

The malaria cases in the country have declined from 1.86 million during 2003 to

1.84 million during 2004. However, Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) cases increased

438

from 0.85 million to 0.88 million. During the current year also, malaria cases and Pf cases have declined from 0.80 million to 0.77 million and 0.35 million to 0.31 million respectively. The year wise data for the past 3 years is presented below:

Year Blood Slide

Examination Malaria Cases Pf Cases Deaths

2002 91617725 1842019 897454 973

2003 99136143 1869403 857101 1006

2004* 96448548 1844413 882044 944

2004** 554480 809204 354127 395

2005** 55208492 771560 316590 464

*Provisional ** Upto August

For dengue control during 2003-04, Rs.3.50 crores cash assistance was released to

different dengue affected States (Rs. 63.35 lakhs to NCT of Delhi) to support IEC, capacity building through trainings, etc. This support also includes funds for procurement of portable fogging machines. 25 Kilolitres of pyrethrum extract was supplied to various States during the current year.

For malaria, an amount of Rs. 202.90 crores, 152.72 crores and Rs.153.50 crores

has been given to the States and UTs during 2002-2003, 2003-2004, 2004-05 respectively in the form of cash and commodity grant.

(f): No target has been fixed for complete eradication of malaria. (g) Govt. of India and the endemic States are working together for controlling dengue

and malaria epidemics. While preventing measures and control of outbreaks is the responsibility of the State Govts., technical support for investigation, prevention and control of dengue and malaria outbreak in different parts of the country is provided by the Govt. of India to the States through Directorate of NVBDCP, Delhi. NVBDCP also organises training programme on prevention and control of dengue and malaria for State and district level health functionaries. The Govt. of India provides insecticides, larvicides and other equipments and materials as per requirement of the States. The State Govts on their part undertake surveillance activities, IEC campaigns, fogging to control adult vector during outbreak and case management in various hospitals and health centres.

439

DENDUE CASES AND DEATHS

ANNEXURE - 1

Sl. No.

State 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005(P*)

C D C D C D C D C D

1. Andhara Pradesh

1 0 61 3 95 5 230 1 0 0

2. Bihar 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

3. Chandigarh 0 0 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

4. Delhi 322 3 45 2 2882 35 606 3 850 9

5. Goa 1 0 0 0 12 2 3 0 2 0

6. Gujarat 69 0 40 0 249 9 117 4 122 1

7. Haryana 260 5 3 0 95 4 25 0 25 0

8. Karnataka 220 0 428 1 1226 7 291 2 403 12

9. Kerala 41 0 219 2 3546 68 686 22 956 8

10. Maharashtra 54 2 370 18 772 45 856 22 87 1

11. Sikkim 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 0 0 0

12. Punjab 49 0 27 2 848 13 52 0 2 0

13. Rajasthan 1452 35 325 5 685 11 207 5 7 0

14. Tamil Nadu 816 8 392 0 1600 8 1027 0 216 0

15. Uttar Pradesh

21 0 0 0 738 8 8 0 0 0

16. West Bengal

0 0 0 0 0 0 32 0 6206 33

17. Pondicherry 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 0

18. D&N

Haveli

0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0

TOTAL 3306 53 1926 33 12784 215 4153 45 8876 64

***********

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PREVENTION OF MIGRATORY BIRD FLU

66. SHRI MUNSHIRAM ARCHANA NAYAK Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the measures being taken by the Government to prevent the migratory birds coming to India in the wake of the fear of bird flu; (b) the category of species found carrying bird flu alongwith the places where they generally land; (c) whether the Government has set up a Siberian Foundation with the assistance of Russia for the purpose; (d) if so, the details of countries included in the said Foundation and the details in this regard; (e) the programme chalked out so far by the Government to prevent bird flu; (f) whether the Union Government has issued instructions to all the States to remain alert to deal with such type of diseases; and g) if so, the strategy chalked out for the purpose?


(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): It is not humanly possible to influence the route taken by migratory birds during their seasonal movement. It is a natural and predetermined phenomenon, transcending all political and geographical boundaries. Therefore, all States have been advised to step up surveillance of areas frequented by migratory birds. (b): As per information available, the high risk migratory birds include Barheaded Geese, Great Cormorant, Brownheaded Gull, Great Blackheaded Gull and Ruddy Shelduck. The

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major wintering grounds for these birds in India include the Brahamputra Valley, Pong Dam (H.P.), Bharatpur (Rajasthan), Kashmir Valley Lakes, Chilka (Orissa), wetlands in Tamil Nadu, high altitude lakes in. Ladakh, Gangetic plain, etc. (c): No Sir. (d): Does not arise. (e): Ministry of Environment and Forests is seized of the issue and has initiated dialogue with other concerned Ministries and avian experts about the potential risks and readiness in India on the issue. Details are given in Annexure-I. (f): Yes, Sir. (g): All Chief Secretaries and Chief Wildlife Wardens have been directed to collaborate with the State Veterinary Departments in collection of serum samples of migratory birds and to keep surveillance not only in the Protected Areas, but in all wetlands that provide staging grounds to the migrating birds especially so in areas where there is a possibility of interaction of migratory birds and poultry birds and report to Ministry. Annexure-I ACTION POINTS ON MONIT0RING OF AVIAN INFLUENZA

• Establishment of monitoring unit at Ministry of Environment and Forests. • Serological/virus sampling of high-risk migratory bird species. • Monitoring of migratory birds (particularly water birds) at important wetland

sites. • Capacity building of State Forest Departments and volunteers for monitoring of

water birds at important wetland sites • Collaboration with Department of Animal Husbandry in collection of dead birds

and safe transport for virus testing. • Ban on trade of wild birds, etc. from other countries as imposed by Ministry

of Agriculture to be continued. ***********

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TOBACCO RELATED DISEASES

28. SHRI PAWAN KUMAR BANSAL Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether about 8 lakhs people die annually because of tobacco related diseases; (a) if so, the estimated amount of expenditure incurred on treatment of such diseases; (b) whether ban on advertising of tobacco and tobacco products is circumvented by restoring to various forms of surrogate advertising; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the action taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE ( DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a): As per the Report on ‘Tobacco Control in India’ published by the Government of India in collaboration with the World Health Organisation, the attributable deaths currently range between 8 lakhs to 9 lakhs per year due to tobacco related diseases. (b): Data relating to incidence of tobacco-induced diseases is not centrally maintained. However, for three main diseases, viz. cancer, respiratory and cardio-vascular diseases, it is estimated that the amount of expenditure incurred on treatment is Rs. 30,833 crore (2002-03). (c) to (e): The central legislation titled ‘The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003’ contains the provision that prohibits direct and indirect advertisement of cigarettes and other tobacco products. These provisions have come into effect on 1st May 2004. Matter is being regularly pursued with the State

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Governments/ Union Territories to ensure effective implementation of legal provisions. The rules are reviewed and amended from time to time to make them more effective. *******




PESTICIDES CAUSING REPRODUCTIVE DISORDERS AND CANCER

68. SHRI IQBAL AHMED SARADGI Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether increased use of pesticides for extra yield is responsible for reproductive disorders and cancer; (b) whether the Government has any proposal to undertake a survey of pesticides in fruits and vegetables; (c) if so, the details of the proposed survey; and (d) the time by which the survey is likely to be conducted and the report submitted?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a): As per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), there are several scientific reports based on studies carried out in India and in other parts of the world indicating that exposure to certain persistent chemicals through air, water and food can lead to reproductive hazards. Also, many case control studies conducted have shown distinct association between breast adipose tissue concentrations of several organochlorine xenoestrogens and breast cancer risk. (b) to (d): According to Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture, a central sector scheme ‘Monitoring of Pesticide Residue at National Level’ has been initiated and the survey is likely to be started by January 2006 and would be a continuous ongoing process. **********

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DENTAL DISEASES

64. DR. M. JAGANNATH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the study report released recently by the Dental Council of India shows that more than 89.6 percent of the people between the ages of 35-44 years and 67.7 per cent of 15 years old suffer from gum diseases; (b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; and (c) the action taken or proposed to be taken by the Government to save the people from dental diseases?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a) to (c): According to the study conducted by the Dental Council of India (DCI), more than 89.6 per cent of people between the age of 35-44 years and 67.7 per cent of 15 years old suffer from gum diseases. The study conducted by DCI and its report have not been submitted to the Government. The Government is running health awareness and education campaigns so as to educate the public about oral hygiene and to restraint strictly from food items such as junk food, chocolates, toffees, cold drinks, etc. **********



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EFFECT OF ACETIC ACID ON HEALTH

3153. DR. M. JAGANNATH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether various soft drinks like pepsi and coke available in the country contain acetic acid which is generally used to clean toilets as a germicide; (b) if so, whether the Government has conducted any study to assess it’s effect on the health of the consumers; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) if not, the reasons therefor; and (e) the corrective measures taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) to (e): Acetic acid is an approved food additive by Codex Alimentarious Commission. Food grade acetic acid has been recommended to be used as preservative and acidity regulator in food products. The ‘Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives’ (JECFA) evaluated the use and safety profile of acetic acid in 1965 which has been reviewed from time to time with the last review being carried out in 2002. Vinegar which is a food item and consumed by the populace at large is basically acetic acid. Under Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955, acetic acid (food grade) is permitted to be added in some food products including carbonated water. ********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE LOK SABHA


ILL-EFFECTS OF CONSUMPTION OF SOYA BEANS

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1261. DR. M JAGANNATH Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state: (a) whether the consumption of soya beans by the children and infants is injurious to their health as reported in The Pioneer, dated August 4, 2005;

(a) if so, the details thereof; (b) whether the Government has set up any Committee of experts to examine it; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) if not, the reasons therefore?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI )

(a) to (e): According to the information available with Indian Council of Medical Research, there are no studies indicating ill-effects of consumption of soya beans in children and infants.

*******

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INDUSTRIAL POLLUTION




POLLUTION BY SPONGE IRON PLANTS IN KEONJHAR

99. SHRI ANANTA NAYAK Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has identified the sponge iron plants in Keonjhar district, Orissa which are causing air and water pollution; (b) if so, the list of such sponge iron plants; (c) the number of people and the villages affected by these sponge iron plants; and (d) the steps taken to control air and water pollution caused by these sponge iron plants?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The Orissa State Pollution Control Board has reported that during the last one year, out of seventeen sponge iron plants in Keonjhar district of Orissa, six units have been observed to be not complying with the environmental norms due to inadequate pollution control measures adopted. The list of such sponge iron plants is enclosed as Annexure. (c)&(d): To control pollution from sponge iron plants and to reduce impact on the nearby villages, the State Pollution Control Board has directed sponge iron plants to adopt the following pollution abatement measures : # Installation of Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP)/Gas Cleaning Plant/Bag Filters for emission control;

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# Provision of adequate water sprinkling facilities to control fugitive emissions; # Management of solid waste; # Complete re-circulation of water The Orissa State Pollution Control Board is regularly monitoring the environmental compliance and taking necessary legal action, in case of any violation. List of defaulting Sponge Iron Plants in Keonjhar district S.No. Name of the Unit 1. Beekay Steels & Power Limited, Uliburu, Nalda 2. Grewal Associates Matkambeda, Barbil 3. Orion Ispat Ltd., Ramchandrapur 4. Sree Metaliks Ltd., Loidapada 5. Aditya Sponge & Power Ltd., Telkoi 6. MSP Sponge Iron (P) Ltd., Haladiguna ********




POLLUTION CONTROL IN MAHARASHTRA

81. SHRI DEVIDAS ANANDRAO PINGLE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) Whether the Government is aware of the fact that the Pollution Control Board has been unsuccessful in controlling the pollution in various States of the country particularly in Maharashtra; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Government is aware of the fact that embezzlement of crores of rupees has been made in the name of issuing ‘No Objection Certificate’ by the Pollution Control

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Board in various States; (d) if so, the concrete measures being taken by the Government in this regard; and (e) whether the Government will take action against the erring officers?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): No Sir. Due to various abatement measures taken by the Central and State Pollution Control Boards, the increasing trend in pollution in the country has been arrested with categorical improvement in environmental quality as determined by competent scientific institutions. The major initiatives taken by Maharashtra State Pollution Control Board in this regard inter-alia include the following: (i) Persuading local bodies for proper management of municipal solid waste; (ii) Ensuring proper hazardous waste management in the state including setting up of common facilities for management of hazardous waste; (iii) Granting authorisations to 7000 health care establishments and facilitating development of 22 common facilities for bio-medical waste management; (iv) Establishment of 23 air quality monitoring stations in different cities; and (v) Expeditious action for consent management. (c): No Sir. (d)&(e): Does not arise. *********



POLLUTING INDUSTRIAL UNITS

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2108.SHRI DALPAT SINGH PARASTE SANGEETA KUMARI SINGH DEO M. ANJAN KUMAR YADAV ANANTA NAYAK PARSURAM MAJHI JIVABHAI AMBALAL PATEL HARI KEWAL PRASAD VIRJIBHAI THUMMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the number of industrial units causing water and air pollution in the country; (b) whether the Government has registered any case under relevant Acts against those industrial units; (c) if so, the details thereof during the last three years and current year, State-wise; and (d) the steps taken/proposed to be taken to rehabilitate the affected employees as a result of closure/shifting of such units?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIAN MEENA) (a)to(d): The information is being collected and would be laid on the Table of the House. *************



HARMFUL EFFECTS OF ASBESTOS EXPOSURE

6768. SMT. JAYABEN B. THAKKAR

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Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that Dr.T.K.Joshi of the Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Hospital has given detailed account of the dangers of asbestos; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the measures being taken to save the construction workers from asbestos exposure?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI) (a) & (b): Dr. T.K.Joshi of Lok Nayak Jaiprakash Narayan hospital has expressed his view in an article published in ‘Indian Journal of Occupational and Enviornmental Medicine’ that asbestos used in any form and in any manner is carcinogenic with no safe levels of exposure as evidenced by the position taken by a number of international agencies. However, according to Indian Council of Medical Research, there is no convincing evidence that the consumers of asbestos products face any significant risk of cancer. (c): Various standards have been prescribed by Bureau of Indian Standards to ensure safety in handling and use of asbestos and asbestos products. In addition, there are provisions under the Factories Act 1987, Mines Act 1952 and Environment Protection Act 1986 to reduce/control the hazards produced due to asbestos exposure. *************



POLLUTION BY CEMENT PLANTS

825. SHRI V.K. THUMMAR: SHRI HARISINH CHAVDA:

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Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether cement plants polluting the environment of Gujarat are being set up in

the residential areas of the nearby villages; (b) if so, the details thereof including its effects on basic infrastructure like water

bodies, roads, etc. and; (c) the rules and regulations which govern cement industries in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The cement plants in Gujarat are operating with valid consent of the Gujarat

State Pollution Control Board, which is regularly monitoring compliance with the consent conditions and environmental norms. There are no reports of any adverse impact on infrastructure and other facilities.

(c) The cement industries are required to comply with the emission standards notified

under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. ***********



SPECIAL PERMISSION TO POLLUTING COMPANIES

829. SHRI JIVABHAI AMBALAL PATEL SHRI V.K. THUMMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether may companies causing pollution have been given special permission to

operate from the forest land despite enforcement of Forest Conservation act, 1980;

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(b) if so, the names of the such companies, State-wise; (c) whether the Government of Gujarat has forwarded the proposals of such

companies with its recommendations in this regard; (d) if so, the grounds on which such recommendations have been made; and (e) the reasons for recognising these grounds?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): No special permission has been granted to companies causing pollution to

operate from forest land in Gujarat under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. (c),(d)&(e): Does not arise

************



BENEFITS OF FLY ASH

2838. SHRI BALASHOWRY VALLABHANENI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the benefits of fly ash; (b) the extent to which it helps clean the environment; and (c) the steps proposed/ taken to put fly ash to proper use?

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ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): If fly ash is left as such it will cause air pollution. If it is disposed on land

by way of ash pond it occupies huge area of land and also uses large quantity of water. By utilising fly ash, we can prevent air and water pollution and release the land being used up in ash pond construction. By using fly ash the environment would not only be clean but also there are benefits. The use of fly ash in the manufacture of clay bricks and in road construction reduce the consumption of soil which is required for maintaining our agricultural productivity and food security. It is used in the cement manufacture thus helping in the reduction of consumption of limestone. By using fly ash in agriculture some of the micronutrients are provided to the crops.

(c): A number of steps have been taken by Government of India to put fly ash

to proper use. To cite a few, the Government of India, Ministry of Environment and Forests has already brought out legislation for conservation of soil and prevention of disposal of fly ash on land. Besides this, Bureau of Indian Standards has brought out standards for about 50 fly ash products. The Indian Road Congress has brought out specifications for construction of National Highways and Rural Roads which permits the use of fly ash in road construction. The Central and State Government and their agencies have included fly ash/fly ash products in their specifications, schedule of rates and tender documents.

***************



POLLUTION BY CEMENT PLANTS

825. SHRI V.K. THUMMAR: SHRI HARISINH CHAVDA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state:

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(a) whether cement plants polluting the environment of Gujarat are being set up in the

residential areas of the nearby villages; (b) if so, the details thereof including its effects on basic infrastructure like water

bodies, roads, etc.; and (c) the rules and regulations which govern cement industries in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The cement plants in Gujarat are operating with valid consent of the Gujarat

State Pollution Control Board, which is regularly monitoring compliance with the consent conditions and environmental norms. There are no reports of any adverse impact on infrastructure and other facilities.

(c) The cement industries are required to comply with the emission standards notified under the

Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

******************

456

LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT


CHILD LABOUR IN HAZARDOUS WORK

2689, SHRI PAWAN KUMAR BANSAL Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENTbe pleased to state:

(a) the number of children below the age of fourteen years who are engaged in labour work in the country;

(b) the number out of them engaged in hazardous work; (c) the steps taken by the Government to attract such child labourers to schools or

other informal centres of education; and (d) the number of child labourers attending such school or centers?

ANSWER

MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI K CHANDRASEKHAR RAO) (a)&(b): Census conducted by the Registrar General of India on decadal basis is the only authentic data in rrespect of population of child labour in the country. As per the Census of 2001, the total number of working children in the age group of 5-14 years is 1.26 crore. Census data, however, does not make any distinction between hazardous and non-hazardous from employment. ©: The Government is implementing the Scheme of National Child Labour Projects (NCLPs) in 250 districts of 21 States in the country. Under the scheme of NCLP, special schools/ rehabilitation centers are set up, which provide following facilities to the children withdrawn from employment.

• Formal /Non-formal education • Vocational Training • Supplementary Nutrition @ 5/-per child • Stipend @100/- per month to the children withdrawn from employment • Health care facilities

457

(d): Under the scheme of NCLP, 1,82,693 children have been withdrawn from employment and are attending the special schools/centres. ******



AMENDMENT IN INDUSTRIAL DISPUTES ACT, 1947

763. SMT. DAGGUBATI PURANDARESWARI Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government proposes to amend the existing Industrial Disputes Act, 1947 to facilitate the hire and fire norms of labour in small industrial units; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the time by which necessary amended legislation is likely to be brought?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI K. CHANDRASEKHAR RAO)

(a): There is no such proposal at present. (b) & (c): Do not arise in view of (a) above. **********




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CHILD LABOUR ELIMINATION PROJECTS

172. SMT. DAGGUBATI PURANDARESWARI ASADUDDIN OWAISI Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:- (a) whether a special Rs. 200 crore project on child labour elimination is being implemented jointly with US Government; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether this project is in addition to the existing National Child Labour Elimination Programme; (d) if so, the reasons for two parallel programmes with the same objectives being running simultaneously in the country; (e) the number of districts selected for this project; (f) whether the Indo-US child labour project is under scanner as reported in the Times of India dated September 20, 2005; and (g) if so, the present status of the project and the time by which it is likely to be implemented?

ANSWER MINISTER OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI K. CHANDRASEKHAR RAO) (a): A Rs. 175 crore (approximately) equivalent to 40 million US$ joint Indo-US project is being implemented for Child Labour Elimination in selected districts of the country. (b): As a follow-up to the Joint Statement on ‘Enhanced Indo-US Cooperation on Eliminating Child Labour’ signed between the Ministry of Labour & Employment and the US Department of Labour in August 2000, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, Department of Elementary Education and Literacy of the Ministry of Human Resource Development and the US Department of Labour have launched a child labour project called Indus (Indo-US). The project aims at withdrawing and rehabilitating children working in identified hazardous sectors through effective convergence with the Department of Education. (c): Yes, Sir.

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(d): The Indus (Indo-US) Project is being implemented only in those districts where the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme is not in operation. The Indus Project contains certain additional interventions, which are not covered under NCLP Scheme. (e): The project is being implemented in 21 districts of 5 States of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi since 2004. (f)&(g): The Indus project was launched in February 2004 and is being currently implemented in all 21 districts of 5 States of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. *****



CONTRACT LABOURERS

692. SHRI P. KARUNAKARAN

Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware of the fact that a large number of contract labourers in the country are denied the protection envisaged in the labour laws; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether there are instances of death of contract labourers in the country including in Kerala State due to lack of adequate food, shelter and medical attendance; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the action taken against guilty contractors/employers who are at fault?

460

ANSWER MINISTER OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI K. CHANDRASEKHAR RAO) (a) & (b): Some complaints are received from time to time alleging non-grant of benefits to contract labourers under the various labour laws. The same are investigated and dealt with in accordance with the provisions of the law, including launching of prosecutions, if considered necessary. (c) to (e): As per information received, in Kerala, two migrant workers from state of Bihar engaged by M/s Punjlloyd Ltd., a construction company, in road construction work, died due to malaria. The specific construction work falls in the state sphere. Timely action was taken by the State Labour Department to provide proper medical care to other ailing workers and their lives were saved. Necessary action in accordance with the provisions of labour laws have been initiated and a show cause notice has been issued to the concerned contractors on 31.10.2005 for their lapses in providing the necessary facilities. Besides instructions have been issued by the State Labour Commissioner to the field offices to closely monitor compliance of labour laws and take strict follow up action. A compensation of Rs. 1.28 lakhs each to the deceased workers has also been deposited by M/s Punjlloyd with State Labour Commissioner for disbursement to the legal heirs of the deceased through the Government of Bihar ******.




REHABILITATION OF CHILD LABOUR

365. SHRI HEMLAL MURMU M.P. VEERENDRA KUMAR Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:- (a) whether a large number of child labourers have been freed recently from 50 factories in the country, including Zari units in Delhi and also in Small Scale Industrial Units of Maharashtra; (b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;

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(c) whether the Government has any plan to rehabilitate the rescued children and also to involve certain Non-Governmental Organisations therein; (d) if so, the details thereof alongwith the amount earmarked for the rehabilitation plan; (e) whether any legal action has been taken against the factory owners in which these children were working; (f) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and (g) the further steps taken by the Government to stop exploitation of children?

ANSWER MINISTER OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI K. CHANDRASEKHAR RAO) (a)&(b): Yes Sir. In a recent raid conducted by the Government of Delhi, 265 child workers have been rescued from various embroidery units. Such raids, were conducted earlier also during this year by the Government of NCT of Delhi wherein 166 children were rescued. Conducting raids and inspections to detect cases of violation of the provisions of the Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986 is a regular and on-going activity of the respective State Governments. Similarly, special drives were conducted this year by the State Government of Maharashtra where 938 children were rescued from Zari and other small-scale units in Mumbai. (c)&(d): After the children are rescued from their place of work, steps are being taken for sending them to their native places for rehabilitation. In this connection, the matter has already been taken up with the respective State Governments to provide effective rehabilitation to these children under National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme. (e)&(f): Prosecution against the erring employers in violation of the Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act 1986 is being initiated by the State Government. (g): Government is already implementing the Scheme of National Child Labour Project (NCLP) in 250 child labour endemic districts of the country for the elimination of child labour. It involves withdrawal of children from work and putting them in special schools and finally mainstreaming them into the regular education system. *********

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CHILD LABOUR ACT

2749. SHRI NARENDRA KUMAR KUSHWAHA ASHOK KUMAR RAWAT MUNSHIRAM

Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has received the names of the States not pursuing the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 as reported in the ‘Rashtriya Sahara’ dated September 24, 2005; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether these States have not utilised the fund allocated to them for the welfare of child labourers; (d) if so, the number of hazardous industries where child labourers are working, State-wise; (e) whether all the States have since started the schools under Nationnal Child Labour Project; and (f) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI K. CHANDRASEKHAR RAO) (a): No, Sir. (b): Does not arise. (c): Grants under the Scheme of National Child Labour Projects (NCLPs) are released directly to the identified child labour endemic districts. The utilisations of funds are monitored through the audited accounts submitted by the concerned districts.

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(d): Under the NCLP Scheme, survey is conducted in the identified districts to find out the number of children working in hazardous occupations/processes which are specified under the Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986. The number of hazardous industries in which child labourers are working are not maintained by the Ministry. (e) & (f): The National Child Labour Projects (NCLPs) are selected by the Government on the basis of the endemicity of child labour. The Scheme was being implemented in 100 districts in 13 States till the XIth Plan. It has subsequently been expanded during the Xth Plan to cover 250 districts in 21 States of the country. *******



CHILDREN AT COTTON SEED FARMS

3755. SHRI BADIGA RAMAKRISHNA BRAJA KISHORE TRIPATHY Will the Minister of LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT be pleased to state:- (a) whether attention of the Government has been drawn to the news item to the effect that 1,00,000 children have been working for over thirteen hours a day at cotton seed farms in Andhra Pradesh as reported in the Times of India dated December 04, 2005; (b) if so, whether the Government has examined the report of India Committee of the Netherlands in this regard; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the steps taken to remedy the situation?

ANSWER MINISTER OF LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI K. CHANDRASEKHAR RAO) (a) to (c): Yes Sir. The Government is aware of the report of India Committee of the Netherlands. This report is on the study of the link between prices paid to farmers and the

464

use of child labour in cotton seed production in Andhra Pradesh. (d): All the 23 districts of Andhra Pradesh are covered under the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme, which provides effective rehabilitation to children who are child labourers. These include the children engaged in cotton seed farms. ******

465

POLICIES AND AMENDMENTS

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



RIGHT TO CLEAN ENVIRONMENT AS FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT

1569. SHRI SHIVRAJ SINGH CHOUHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether there is any proposal under consideration of the Government to incorporate the right to clean environment in the fundamental rights; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) by when a final decision is likely to be taken in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No, Sir. (b) & (c): Does not arise. ********




466

138. SHRI PAWAN KUMAR BANSAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has prepared a National Environment Policy; (b) if so, the salient features and objectives thereof; (c) whether there is any proposal to associate the Panchayati Raj Institutions with environment protection; and (d) if so, the details of the forms of such association?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes, Sir. The Ministry of Environment & Forests has prepared a draft National Environment Policy (NEP). (b): The draft NEP is a response to our national commitment to a clean environment, mandated in the Constitution. It recognises that maintaining a healthy environment is not the state`s responsibility alone, but also that of every citizen. The NEP is also intended to help realise sustainable development by mainstreaming environmental concerns in all development activities. It briefly describes key environmental challenges currently and prospectively facing the country, the objectives of environment policy, normative principles underlying policy action, strategic themes for intervention, broad indications of the legislative and institutional development needed to accomplish the strategic themes and mechanisms for implementation and review. The broad objectives of the policy are conservation of critical environmental resources, intra-generational equity, livelihood security for the poor, inter-generational equity, integration of environmental concerns in economic and social development, efficiency in environmental resource use, improved environmental governance and enhancement of resources for environmental conservation. (c): Yes, Sir. (d): ‘Decentralisation and empowerment of institutions at state and local levels’ is one of the thrust areas of the draft policy. The state and local governments would be particularly encouraged to formulate their own strategies and action plans consistent with the NEP. The draft policy specifically provides for associating the Panchayati Raj Institutions with environmental protection by:

467

(i) giving greater legal standing to Panchayati Raj Institutions and urban local bodies to undertake monitoring of environmental compliance and report violations to the concerned enforcement authorities, (ii) giving legal recognition to the traditional rights of forest dwelling tribes taking into consideration the provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA). ********



IMPROVEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEM

2314. SHRI MADAN LAL SHARMA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Indian environmental system is vulnerable to natural disaster; (b) whether the amount sanctioned under UNDP/GEF budget is increasing continuously for the last several years; (c) If so, the details of the funds received during the last three years and the current year; and (d) the measures being taken by the Government to minimise the effect of natural disasters on the environment?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISITRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI NAMO NARAIAN MEENA) (a): The environment in general is vulnerable to natural disasters. (b): The sanctioned budget of UNDP/GEF has been increasing since 2003.

468

(c): The amount sanctioned under UNDP/GEF budget for last three years including the current year (2003, 2004 and 2005) is as given below:

Year Amount Sanctioned (In USD) 2003 21,98,696 2004 26,63,685 2005 57,57,632 (d): The important measures taken by the Government inter-alia are:- (i) Regulatory framework for ensuring environmental safeguards for minimising loss to life and property. (ii) Shelter belt plantations. (iii) Afforestation measures. (iv) Coral and mangrove conservation. (v) Early warning system. (vi) Forest protection. (vii) Land use planning. *********

469

MINES AND MINERALS

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



MINERAL SAND MINING

1563. SHRI A.V. BELLARMIN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that the exploitation of sand beds and mining activities is going on in the sandy shores of Southern Tamil Nadu, Kerala and other States thereby affecting the eco-balance; (b) whether the environmentalists have warned against such activities; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the measures contemplated by the Government to put an end to illegal mining and construction activities there?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA): (a): Mining of beach sand minerals is not a prohibited activity under the provisions of the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991. Ministry of Environment and Forests has granted clearance for such proposals on case-to-case basis based on environmental impact assessment studies. No studies have brought to the notice of Ministry of Environment and Forests regarding exploitation of sand beds and mining activities affecting the eco-balance. (b), (c) and (d): Ministry has, in the past, received a few complaints regarding illegal mining of beach sand minerals. In response to the same, necessary directions/instructions were issued to the respective State Governments/State Coastal Zone Management Authorities to take appropriate action to stop such illegal mining activities. ******

470



ILLEGAL MINING IN FOREST AREAS OF UTTAR PRADESH

5392. SHRI BALESHWAR YADAV Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether a regional Chief Forest Conservator of Uttar Pradesh Forest Department has sent a report on ongoing illegal mining activities in forest areas of Uttar Pradesh particularly in Lalitpur district; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 is being violated in Uttar Pradesh; and (d) if so, the steps taken by the Government to prevent such violation and to stop illegal mining?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (Central Zone), Ministry of Environment and Forests has sent a report to the Ministry regarding mining leases in Lalitpur district of Uttar Pradesh. The report made observations on illegal mining in forest area and recommended immediate discontinuation of operations in such mines. (c)&(d): Illegal mining in forest areas is, inter-alia, a violation under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The following actions were taken in respect of illegal mining: (i) Cases were registered against the offenders and illegal mining stopped (ii) Regular checking and patrolling is carried out by the forest officials in coordination with the district administration and police to prevent illegal mining. ********

471




MINES NEAR SARISKA TIGER RESERVE

21. SHRI KAILASH MEGHWAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware that about fifty mines are running illegally with the nexus of officials of Department of Forests around Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar district of Rajasthan; (b) whether Supreme Court in 1993 had issued guidelines not to run mining activities in this area with a view of environmental protection of this area; and (c) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto alongwith the present status of implementation of Supreme Court guidelines?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT ANDFORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)to(c): Information is being collected from the State Government of Rajasthan and will be laid on the Table of the House.

*********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



MINES FUNCTIONING IN FOREST AREAS OF RAJASTHAN

472

82. SHRI JASWANT SINGH BISHNOI PRALHAD VENKATESH JOSHI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the number of mines functioning in the forest areas of Rajasthan and other States; (b) whether steps are being taken to stop the functioning of mines in the forest areas; (c) if so, by when; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Since 1980, 1194 mines have been granted forestry clearances for being operated in forest areas under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 all over the country. Out of these, 218 mines belong to the State of Rajasthan. (b): Mining is an economic activity and contributes to the GDP of the nation. It is also a fact that most of the mines are located in forest areas. Therefore, to maintain a rational balance between development and conservation, the mines having ores/minerals of national importance, are allowed in forest areas under strict conditions and with appropriate mitigatory measures like compensatory afforestation, safety zone creation, overburden dump stabilisation, reclamation of mined out areas, etc. Compliance of these mitigatory measures by user agency is ensured at the project cost. Thus, mining is allowed in forest areas after stringent examination and scrutiny and with adequate safeguards. (c)& (d): Do not arise. ******



473

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO INDUSTRIES IN ORISSA

1159. SHRI GIRIDHAR GAMANG Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Union Government had receive proposals from Government of Orissa for environment and forest clearance for setting up new industries and mining activities; (b) if so, the details thereof, proposal-wise; (c) the number of proposals cleared so far and those pending for clearance; and (d) the guidelines and criteria alongwith the norms adopted for such clearance?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes Sir. (b)&(c): So far the forestry clearance is concerned, during last 3 years (01.07.2002 to 27.07.2005), two proposals for setting up of industries and 51 proposals for mining in forest areas from Orissa have been received. Out of two proposals for setting up of industries, one has been approved by the Central Government, while the other one has been withdrawn by the State Government. Further, out of 51 mining proposals, 35 have been approved, 4 have been rejected, 8 have been returned to State Government for want of complete information, and 4 mining proposals are under various stages of consideration of the Ministry. The proposal-wise details are given in Annexure-I. Further, regarding environment clearance, during last 3 years (01.07.2002 to 27.07.2005), 11 proposals for setting up of industries and 30 proposals for mining have been received. Out of 11 proposals for setting up of industries, 9 have been cleared. In respect of remaining two proposals, additional information has been sought from State Government. The proposal-wise details are given in Annexure-II. Out of 30 mining proposals, 10 have been cleared and 20 proposals are under various stages of consideration. The proposal-wise details are given in Annexure-III. (d): For forestry clearance, the projects are examined by a statutory expert body, i.e., Forest Advisory Committee (FAC), constituted under Section 3 of Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The FAC examines the proposals as per the provisions of the Act, Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines issued thereunder from time to time. Besides official members, the FAC comprises non-official experts in the field of forestry and allied disciplines like mining, engineering, soil conservation, etc.

474

The proposals received for environmental clearance are appraised through an Expert Committee constituted by Ministry of Environment and Forests as per the procedure prescribed in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification,1994 and subsequent amendments therein. ANNEXURE-I DETAILS OF MINING PROJECTS AND PROJECTS FOR SETTING UP OF INDUSTRIES RECEIVED FROM STATE OF ORISSA FOR FORESTRY CLEARANCE Period: 01.07.2002 to 27.07.2005

Sr No.

Name of Proposal

Category (Mining/ Industry)

Area Applied (ha.)

Status

Area Diverted (ha.)

1 MINING LEASE TO RUNGTA MINES LTD

MINING

33.799

Approved

15.95

2 MINING LEASE TO OMC LTD

MINING

365.298

Approved

142.95

3 MINING LEASE TO ORISSA MINING CORPORATION LIMITED IN KURMITAR MINES

MINING

50.802 Approved

28.802

4 MINING LEASE FOR MAHAGIRI CHROMITE MINES OF M/S INDIAN CHARGE CHROME LIMITED (ICCL) IN VILLAGE KALIAPANI UNDER SUKINDA TEHSIL

MINING 63.91

Approved

63.91

5 MINING LEASE IN F/O ORISSA MINING CORPORATION LIMITED

MINING 95.6 Approved 95.6

6 MINING LEASE TO KJS MINING 476.205 Approved 371.192

475

AHLUWALIA

7 MINING LEASE TO MAHANANDI COAL FIELDS LTD FOR BHUBNESHWARI OCP

MINING 132.904

Approved 112.521

8 MINING LEASE TO A.M.T.C (P) LTD

MINING 244.327

Approved 244.327

9 ANANTHA EXTENSION OPENCAST PROJECT IN FAVOUR OF MAHANADI COAL FIELDS LIMITED

MINING 62.67

Approved 62.67

10 MINING LEASE TO GIRDHARILAL AGRAWAL

MINING 23.24

Approved 23.24

11 MINING LEASE TO TATA REFRACTORIES

MINING 99.5

Approved 58.5

12 MINING LEASE TO ESSEL MINING INDUSTRIES

MINING 152.229 Approved

152.229

13 MINING LEASE TO R. P. SAO FOR GUALI IRON ORE MINES

MINING 251.95

Approved 42.417

14 MINING LEASE IN F/O SHRI RUDRASEN SINDHU M/S ROHTAK ENGINEERING COMPANY

MINING 41.893

Approved 41.839

15 MINING LEASE TO M/S LAL TRADERS & AGENCIES PVT LIMITED

MINING 117.84

Approved 117.84

16 MINING LEASE IN F/O M/S RUNGTA SONS (P) LIMITED


476

17 MINING LEASE TO S. PRADHAN FOR KALAPARBAT IRON ORE MINES


18 MINING LEASE IN F/O M/S RUNGTA MINES LIMITED


19

JAGANNATH EXTENSION OPENCAST PROJECT OF MAHANADI COALFIELDS LIMITED

MINING

58.096 Approved

58.096

20 BAMEBARI IRON & MANGANESE ORE MINING BY M/S TISCO LTD

MINING

145.329 Approved

145.329

21 UNDERGROUND COAL MINING IN NATRAJ IN FAVOUR OF MAHANADI COALFIELDS LIMITED

MINING

289856 Approved

289856

22 NANDIRA UNDERGROUND COAL MINE OF TALCHER AREA OF MAHANADI COALFIELDS LIMITED

MINING

325.38 Approved

325.38

23 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE IN TIRINGPAHAR MANGANESE MINES OF M/S TISCO LIMITED


24 RENEWAL OF LEASE FOR MAHULSUKHA MANGANESE ORE MINING MINES IN FAVOUR OF M/S AMTC PVT. LIMITED

MINING 227 Approved 227

477

25 MINING OF IRON ORE BY M/S FEEGRADE AND MINING COMPANY IN BONAI FOREST DIVISION


26 MINING LEASE TO M/S M.G.MOHANTY OF BHUBANESWAR MINING


27 STONE QUARRY BY M/S HENRAUX (I) PVT LIMITED

MINING 9,647 Approved 9.647

28 JORURI IRON & MN. MINES OF KALINGA MINING CORP. MINING


29 TALABASTA FIRECLAY MINES OF JPKP JHUNJHUNWALA MINING


30 IRON ORE MINING IN VILLAGE PATABEDA OF MINING BONAI SUBDIVISION BY M/S M.G. MOHANTY

MINING 12.058 Approved

12.058

31 QUARTZ AND QUARTZITE MINING BY SHRI P N SAHU


32 IRON ORE MINING BY SMT. INDRANI PATNAIK MINING IN VILLAGE UNCHABALI


33 RON ORE MINING BY SH. J. N. PATNAIK IN MINING VILLAGE BHANJAPALLI AND KOIRA


478

34 INGANIJHARAN IRON & MN. MINES OF S. PRADHAN


35 BALITA IRON MINES OF S. PRADHAN


36 LANJIGARH BAUXITE MINING PROJECT IN NIYAMGIRI RF AND NIMAGIRI PROPOSED RF OF RAYAGADA MINING DISTRICT IN FAVOUR OF ORISSA MINING CORPORATION (OMC)

MINING 660749 Under Process

----

37 TEMPORARY WORKING PERMISSION IN FAVOUR OFMINING M/S AXL PRIVATE LIMITED FOR BHUTUDA MANGANESE ORE MINE

MINING 40.469 Under Process

----

38 TEMPORARY WORKING PERMISSION FOR SULAPAT IRON MINE OF SHRI BIRATCHANDRA DAGARA IN RAIRANGPUR FOREST DIVISION


----

39 TWP IN F/O BUDHARAJA IRON & MAGANESE ORE MINES FOR ONE YEAR OVER 8.13HA ALREADY BROKEN UP FOREST AREA

MINING 8.13 Returned -----

40 MINING LEASE TO NAVYUG MINERALS LIMITED


41 ASBESTOS & PYROXEMITE MINING BY BL NEWATIA

MINING 18.23 Returned ----

42 DIVERSION OF FOREST MINING 14.739 Returned ----

479

LAND IN FAVOUR OF MINING M/S PATNAIK MINERALS PVT LIMITED FOR MANGANESE MINES

43 BANGUR CHROMITE MINES OF 0MC LTD MINING


44 GRAPHITE MINE IN GANJAUDHAR BY SH. J.N. AGARWAL MINING


45 GRAPHITE MINE BY SH. TILAK RAJ MEDIRATTA MINING

MINING 2,841 Returned -----

46 MINING LEASE TO BC SAHU

MINING 45.148 Rejected ----

47 KATASAHI & KOLHA RUDKOLA MN. MINES OF SN PAUL MINING

MINING 3.797 Rejected -----

48 MINING OF IRON ORE BY M/S NATIONAL MINING ENTERPRISES IN BONAI DIVISION

MINING 37.146 Rejected -----

49 BLACKSTONE QUARRY BY M/S JS CONSTRUCTION LTD. MINING

MINING 13.86 Rejected ----

50 MINING LEASE TO MCL FOR JAGANNATH EXTENSION OCP MINING


51 IRON ORE BASED INDUSTRIES OF IPICOL


----

52 ESTABLISHMENT OF INTEGRATED STEEL PLANT INDUSTRIES BY M/S BHUSHAN LIMITED

INDUSTRIES 59.16 Approved -----

480

53 SETTING UP OF ALUMINA REFINERY AT LANJIGARH INDUSTRIES BYM/S VEDANTA ALUMINA LIMITED

INDUSTRIES 58.943 Withdrawn by State

-----

ANNEXURE-II

DETAILS OF PROJECTS FOR SETTING UP OF INDUSTRIES IN ORISSA RECEIVED IN THE MINISTRY FOR ENVIRONMENT CLEAR Period: 01.07.2002 to 27.07.2005 Sl.No.

Name of Proects Nature

Cost of Project (Rs. in Crores)

Status

1 Bhushan Ltd Iron & Steel

1650

Cleared

2 Aluminium Company Ltd. (NALCO) Aluminium

Aluminium Smelter

1609.40

Cleared

3 Aluminium Company Ltd. (NALCO) Aluminium

Aluminium Refinery

1258.02

Cleared

4 Sterlite Industries Ltd.

Aluminium Refinery

4500

Cleared

5 Sterlite Industries Ltd.

Copper Smelter 500 Cleared

6 Paradeep Phosphates Ltd

Sulphuric Acid Plant 160 Cleared

7 Tata SpongeIron Ltd

Iron & Steel 67.35 Cleared

481

8 Aarti Steel Ltd, Cuttack

Steel Plant 888.35 Cleared

9 Neepaz Metals Ltd, Sundergarh

Iron & Steel 202.50 Cleared

10 Hindalco Industries Ltd

Aluminium Refinery 3694.23 Additional information sought by Expert by Committee

11 Jindal Stainless Steel Ltd, Kalinga Nagar

Stainless steel Plant 4764.00 Additional information sought by Expert Committee

ANNEXURE-III DETAILS OF MINING PROJECTS OF ORISSA RECEIVED IN THE MINISTRY FOR ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE

S.No Name of the project

Date of Receipt

Status

1 Bandogurah Iolite Deposit mining project of M/s Navyug Minerals Ltd.

27.11.2002

Proponent was advised to obtain site clearance from the Ministryin first instance. Response awaited.

2 Turia Chrysoberyl Cat’s Eye Deposit mining

28.11.2002

As the proposal for diversion of project of forestland for this project has been rejected, the proposal for considered.

482

3 Labanyasar Iolite Deposit

mining projectof M/s Navayug Minerals

28.11.2002 Proposal returned on 26.07.2004and the proponent has been asked to submit fresh proposal. Proposal awaited.

4 Nuasahi Chromite mining project of M/s Indian Metals & Ferro AlloysLtd

04.02.2003

Environmental clearance granted on 09.07.2004

5 Thakurani Iron Ore mining project of M/s S.L. Sarda & M.L. Sarda

14.02.2003 Environmental clearance granted on 22.09.2004.

6 Khondbond Iron Ore mining project of M/s Tata Iron & Steel Co. Ltd.

06.06.2003

Environmental clearance granted on 28.03.2005.

7 oda East Iron Ore mining project of M/s Tata Iron & Steel Co. Ltd.

06.06.2003


8 Mahagiri Chromite mining project of M/s Indian Charge Chrome Ltd.

16.06.2003

Environmental clearance granted 09.07.2004

9 KaManufacturing & Services Limited rlakona Quartz Mine of M/s Utkal

20.06.2003

The State Government was requested to advise the proponent to obtain site clearance.

10 Utkal B-2 Block coal mining project of M/s Monnet Ispat Ltd.

23.07.2003

Considered by the Expert Committee (Mining) and sought extensive clarifications on various issues, which are awaited.

483

.

11 Katamati iron ore mining project of M/s Tata Iron & Steel Co. Ltd

30.07.2003 Environmental clearance granted on 06.05.2005. .

12 Panchpatmali Bauxite minidn project of M/s NALCO

17.02.2004


13 Patabeda Iron Ore Mining project of M/s MGM Minerals Ltd.

17.12.2004

Environmental clearance granted on 21.07.2005.

14 Patabeda Iron Ore Mining project of M/s MG Mohanty

20.12.2004 Environmental clearance granted on 21.07.2005.

15 Expansion of Thakurani Iron Ore Mine of M/s Kaypee Enterprises,

01.03.2005 Information sought by EC(M) on completenessnformation sought by EC(M) on completeness

16 Langiberna Limestone Mine and Dolomite Mines

07.03.2005 Information sought by EC(M) on EIA-EMP Report received on 31.05.2005. Under examination.

17 Tantra, Raikela & Bandhal (TRB) Iron Ore Mine of M/s Jindal Steel & Power Ltd., Sundergarh

14.03.2005 Under examination.

18 Jajang iron ore mining project of M/s Rungta Mines Ltd.

30.03.2005


19 Bamebari Manganese Ore Mines of

01.04.2005

Under examination.

484

20 Tiringpahar Manganese Ore

Mine of M/s Tata Steel, Keonjhar

01.04.2005

Under examination.

21 Joda West Manganese Ore Mine of M/s Tata Steel, Keonjhar

01.04.2005 Under examination

22 Jagannath OCP of M/s MCL

26.04.2005

Considered in the EC(M) meeting held on May 11-13, 2005. Information received on 03.06.2005. Under examination.

23 Belpahar OCP of M/s Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd.

26.04.2005

Considered in the EC(M) meeting held on May 11-13, 2005. Information received on 03.06.2005. Under examination.

24 Gonua Iron and Manganese Mining project of M/s Pawan Kumar Ahluwalia (earlier name Smt. Maitri Shukla)

16.05.2005

Information sought by EC(M) on EIA-EMP Report received on 19.05.2005. Being considered in the EC (M) meeting being held on 13-15 July 2005.

25 Gurujang Chromite Mines of M/s M. Aikth

10.06.2005

Information sought by EC (M) on EIA-EMP Report received on 15.06.2005

485

26 Lanjigarh Bauxite Mine of M/s Orissa Mining Corporation Ltd.

13.06.2005

Information sought by EC (M) on EIA–EMP Report awaited. It also involves certain legal issues for which the file has been referred to the Ministry of Law for their advice.

27 Lingraj OC Expn. Coal Mine project

14.06.2005

Information sought by EC (M) on EIA-EMP Report awaited.

28 Bharatpur OC Expn. Coal Mine Project of M/s MCL

14.06.2005

Information sought by EC (M) on EIA-EMP Report awaited

29 Jialling Langalota Iron & Manganese Iron of M/s Essel Mining & Industries Ltd

17.06.2005


30 Kasia Iron & & Dolomite Mine M/s Essel Mining & Industries Ltd.

17.06.2005


**********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



486


MINING IN THE COUNTRY

1049. SHRI AVTAR SINGH BHADANA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether mining in different parts of the country is still continuing despite orders of the Supreme Court against it; (b) if so, the steps taken by the Government to check the illegal mining; and (c) the progress made in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)to(c): The Ministry of Environment and Forests has no information on the extent of illegal mining going on in the country in violation of the order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in W.P. (C) No. 460 of 2004 in the matter of Goa Foundation Vs. Union of India. However, pursuant to the Supreme Court order, the Ministry has issued specific directions to all the State/Union Territory Governments under Section (5) of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to stop mining being operated in violation of environmental laws. **********




IMPACT OF QUARRYING ACTIVITIES ON ENVIRONMENT

205. SHRI RAMAKRISHNA BADIGA

487

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether quarrying activities are causing damage to the environment; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the details of the case studies done by the Government thereon so far along with the outcome thereof; and (d) the manner in which the Government is tackling/proposes to tackle the environmental damage caused by such activities?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA ) (a)&(b): Yes, Sir. Quarrying activities are known to have environmental impacts in terms of: (i) degradation of land and change of land use, (ii) depletion of ground water resources, (iii) pollution of ground water and surface water, (iv) damage to flora and fauna, (v) pollution of air including noise, (vi) socio-economic impacts including health, (vii) change of drainage pattern, etc. (c): A few studies have been undertaken by various organisations on different aspects of mining which inter-alia include: (i) A study on small scale marble mining at Jhiri in Alwar District, Rajasthan by M/s. Ecomen Consultants Pvt. Ltd., Lucknow, sponsored by Ministry of Environment & Forests in 1995. The study assessed the environmental status of the Jhiri area and ascertained the impact of small scale marble mining activity on socio-cultural, economic and environmental conditions of the area. (ii) Study of environmental problems of Aravali Hills and preparation of action plan for restoration of environmental quality in Gurgaon District of Haryana by Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Limited (CMPDIL) at the instance of Central Pollution Control Board in 2003. The study has been completed and the action plan prepared. (iii) Regional Environmental Impact Assessment for mining operations in Bellary-Hospet Region in Karnataka by National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) at the instance of Government of Karnataka in 2004. A number of recommendations to remedy/improve the environment have been made.

488

(d): Prior environmental clearance is mandatory in the case of projects involving mining of major minerals with lease area of more than 5 ha. The proponents are required to undertake an environmental impact assessment study along with environmental management plan and undergo public hearing for eliciting public concerns. Based on the outcome of above appraisal, environmental clearance is granted by stipulating environmental safeguards. **********




POLLUTION CREATED BY GRINDING STONES

42. SHRI NEDURUMALLI JANARDHANA REDDY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether despite directions from the Supreme Court for keeping the environment clean, about 160 crushers grinding stones in Faridabad are reported to have crossed all limits in creating pollution in Faridabad and adjoining localities of Delhi; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the action proposed/taken in this regard ?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): The Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has reported that 163 stone crushing units are operating in Pali/Mohabatabad crushing zone in Faridabad district. Out of these, 128 stone crushing units have installed adequate Air Pollution Control Measures. (c): The HSPCB is taking necessary legal action, such as, issuance of show cause notices and closure notices against the defaulting units. The Board has directed these units to install pollution control devices such as dust containment cum suppression system, wind breaking wall, metalled roads within the premises, regular clean and wetting of ground,

489

creating of green belt along with periphery, so as to ensure compliance of standards. *************



FOREST AREA UNDER MINING QUARRYING

3908. SHRI PRALHAD VENKATESH JOSHI MANEKA GANDHI JASWANT SINGH BISHNOI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of the prime forest area in the country wherein the mining and quarrying operations were permitted by the Government during 2004-2005; (b) the details of the area in such forest land where the mining and quarrying is being carried out causing deforestation, State-wise as on date; (c) whether the Government has adopted any strategy to discourage the mining operations in the prime forest lands and National Parks; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the State-wise details of the National Parks which are facing the onslaughts of mining and quarrying by which the bio-diversity and wildlife of such National Parks in endangered?


(SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): During 2004-2005, 201 proposals from various States for mining and quarrying operations, involving 15753.704 ha of forest land, have been granted approval under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The details are given in Annexure-I.

490

(b): So far, 95002.86 ha of forest land has been allowed to be diverted for 1,198 number of mining and quarrying proposals of various States, since the enactment of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The State-wise forest land diverted for mining proposals is given in Annexure-II. It is a fact that most of the mines are located in forest areas, which lead to some de-forestation. However, most of the forest area, which has been diverted for mining operations, pertains to renewal of mines, which are in operation since long. (c)to(e): The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 is a regulatory Act and all the proposals requiring diversion of forest land including proposals for mining are considered on their merit and on the recommendations of the State/UT Governments. To maintain a rational balance between development and conservation, mining is allowed in forest land under strict conditions and with appropriate mitigatory measures like compensatory afforestation, safety zone creation, reclamation of mined areas, etc. Vide letter dated 04.05.2001 all the State/UT Governments, have been advised to obtain prior approval of the Supreme Court for diversion of forest land in National Park and Sanctuaries and vide letter dated 24.11.2003 they have also been directed to ensure suspension of all mining activities in National Park and Sanctuaries. Annexure-I FOREST AREA UNDER MINING/QUARRYING

Sl.No Name of Proposal State, District

Area Diverted (ha)

1 MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF M/S SINGARENI COLLIERIES COMPANY TO SCCL

Andhra Pradesh Adilabad

253

2

DIVERSION OF FL OF TANDUR RF FOR GOLETI A) INCLINE UNDERGROUND ENTERICS INREBBENA ( MINES - IA IN FAVOUR OF SCCL BELLAMPALLY


4.56

3 MINING LEASE TO SCCL FOR SHANTIKHANI EXTENSION BLOCK


285.89

4

UNDERGROUND MINING OF GOLETI NO 1 AND PROPOSED 1NCLINE UNDER GROUND MINES IN FAVOUR OF M/S SCCL LTD.

83.77

5 DIVERSION OF 4.00 HAOF FL FOR PURPOSE OF ML FO 4EXTRACTION OF BARYTES IN F/O MEHABOOB MINERALS.

Andhra Pradesh Ananthapur

5

6

ML FOR EXTRACTION OF BARRITES INF/O MEHABOOB MINERALS

Andhra Pradesh Ananthapur

4

7 DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR EXTRACTION OF BLACK GRANITE IN FAVOUR OF M/S NAGAMANI GRANITES

Andhra Pradesh Chitoor

5.4

8 DIVERSION OF FL IN BASAVAPALLI RE OF CHITTOOR DISTRICT FOR EXTRACTION BLACK GRANITE IN FAVOU OF M/S SRI LAKSHMI

Andhra Pradesh Chitoor

3.187

491

GRANITES & EXPORTS

9 RENEWAL OF ML IN BATRAPALAM OF MADINAPADU IN F/O SWAMY KASI RATNAM

4.85

10 MINING LEASE FOR PURPOSE OF AERIAL ROPEWAY IN FAVOUR OF KCP LIMITED

Andhra Pradess Guntur 8.18

11 DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND IN MANGLAGIRI RF FOR QUARRY MINOR MINERALS IN FAVOUR OF SHRI CH. TIRUPALU

Andhra Pradesh 2 Guntur 2

12 MINING LEASE TO SCCL FOR SATU PALLY-I OPENCAST PROJECT

Andhra Pradesh Khammam

244 .2

13 REALIGNMENT OF NALLAER AT VENKATESH KHANI 7 INCLINE IN FAVOUR OF M/S SCCL


11.96

14 GOUTHAMI KHANI OCP MINING LEASE (PHASE-I) IN FAVOUR OF M/S SINGARENI COLLIERIES

Andhra Prades Khammam

261.31

15 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE IN F/O SCCL FOR OCP II PH III MANUGURU IN KONDAPUR/ EXT. 1 OF ASWAPURA RANGE

Andhra Prades Khammam

125.9

16 DIVERSION OF 11.96 HA. RAMAVARAM RF IN KOTHAGUDEM RANGE OF KHAMMAM CIRCLE FOR REALIGNMENT OF NALLAH AT VENKATESH KHANI-7 INCLINE IN FAVOUR OF M/S SCCL


11.96

17 MINING LEASE TO KAKATIYA CEMENT SUGAR INDUSTRIAL

18 Andhra Prades Krishna

121.46

18 COMPARTMENT NO. 29 OF PASUPULABODU BLOCK OF NALGONDA FOREST DIVISION IN FAVOUR OF M/S CHANAKYA CEMENTS

Andhra Pradesh Nalgonda

162

19

MINING LEASE FOR QUARTZ VERMACULITE IN F/O BIBIJAN

Andhra Pradesh Nellore

2 Andhra Pradesh Nellore

20 ML FOR QUARTZ, VERMICULATE, MICA, FELSER OVER AN EXTENT OF 2.00 HA. IN SY.NO.553 OF CHAGNAM VILLAGE, ANSYDAPURAM MANDAL, NELLORE DISTRICT IN F/O SMT. S.K. BIBIJAN.

Andhra Pradesh Nellore

2

21 DIVERSION OF FL FOR ML IN SY.NO.1265 OF SHAMEERPET OF FOREST BLOCK, HYDERABAD DVN. IN F/O M/S LAXMI NARASIMHA METAL INDUSTRIES

Andhra Pradesh Ranga Reddy

4 .

22 ML IN F/O LAKSHMINARASIMHA METAL INDUSTRIES

Andhra Pradesh Ranga Reddy

4

23 DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR QUARRYING OF GRANITE METAL IN FAVOUR OF SMT. T. SATHYAVATHI MUGADA(V)

Andhra Pradesh VijayaNagaram Andhra Pradesh VijayaNagaram

1.25

24 QUARRYING OF GRANITE METAL IN FAVOUR OF SMT.T.SATYAVATHI

125

25 MINING LEASE FOR KAKATIYA KHANI 9 & 9A INCLINE UNDERGROUND MINE TO M/S SCCL

Andhra Pradesh Warangal 431.85

26 MINING LEASE TO M/S SINGARENI COLLIERIES COMPANY LIMITED IN TADICHERLA RESERVE FOREST 250

Andhra Pradesh WARANGAL

250

27 MINING LEASE TO APMDTCL FOR COAL MINING Arunachal Pradesh 128.97

492

IN NAMCHIK – NAMPHUK COAL FIELDS Changlang Bongaigaon28 RENEWAL OF NAKKATI HILL STONE QUARRY 2 Assam Bongaigaon 0.5 29 SAND MAHAL MINING UNDER DHEMAJI DIVISION Assam 4 30 MAKRIJHORA SAND AND GRAVEL MAHAL UNDER

DHUBRI FOREST DIVISION Assam Dhubri

3 31 1 NO. OF DUDHNATH HILL STONE MAHAL &

OPENING OF NOS OF NEW MAHALS UNDER DHUBRI DIVISION 0.5

Assam Dhubri 0.5

32 DIVERSION OF 0.4014 HA & 1.020 HA OF FOREST LAND FOR COMPRESSOR STATION AND LAYING OF PIPELINE BY ASSAM GAS COMPANY UNDERGROUND

Assam Golaghat 1.4214

33

DIVERSION OF 1.99 HA OF FOREST LAND FOR DRILLING LOCATION ELAB UNDER GOLAGHAT DIVISION

Assam Golaghat 1.99

34

DIVERSION OF 1.735 HA OF FOREST LAND FOR DRILLING LOCATION KPAA UNDER GOLAGHAT DIVISION

Assam Golaghat 1.735

35 SAND MAHAL MINING UNDER KAMRUP WEST DIVISION

Assam Kamrup

2.8

36 RENEWAL OF RIVERBED MAHALS Assam KokraJhar 4 37 4NOS OF RIVER BED MAHALS UNDER Assam KokraJhar 3.5 38 RENEWAL OF SAND MAHALS Assam

Lakhimpur 9

39 RENEWAL OF 10 NUMBER OF STONE MAHALS AND 9 NUMBER OF SAND MAHAL

Assam Nagaon 12.8 Assam Nagaon

40 PROPOSAL FOR OPENING UP OF FRESH MAHALS UNDER NAGAON DIVISION

Assam Nagaon 0.25

41 PROPOSAL FOR OPENING UP OF FRESH MAHALS

Assam Nagaon 0.25

42 OPENING UP OF KATHALGURI STONE QUARRY MAHAL NO. 2

Assam Nagaon

0.25

43 RENEWAL OF 6 SAND & GRAVEL MAHALS Assam Sonitpur 5.985 44 RENEWAL OF SAND MAHALS Assam Sonitpur 6 45 RENEWAL OF CORUNDUM MININ LEASE BY MP

MINING CORPORATION Chhattishgarh Bastar

3.7

46 MINING LEASE TO BHILAI STEEL PLANT (SAIL

Chhattishgarh Durg

283.6

47

MINING LEASE TO BHILAI STEEL PLANT(SAIL) Chhattishgarh Durg

100.76

48 MINING LEASE TO STEEL AUTHORITY OF INDIA Chhattishgarh Durg

100

49 MINING LEASE TO JAYASWALS NECO LIMITED (NAGPUR ALLOY CASTING LTD)

Chhattishgarh Jagdalpur

91

50 MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF SHRI JEEVAN LAL JAIN FOR MINING OF IRON ORE IN VILLAGE BARBASPUR

Chhattishgarh Kanker

14.714

51 OPENCAST MINING IN F/O SECL, WEST CHIRMIRI Chhattishgarh Korea 30.55 52 MINING LEASE TO M/S JINDAL POWER LIMITED Chhattshgarh Raigarh 48.208 53 MINING LEASE TO M/S SECL Chhattshgarh Raigarh 19

493

54 MINING LEASE IN F/O JAISAWAL NECO FOR BORIA TIBBU IRON ORE DEPOSITS

Chhattishgarh Rajindgaon

41

55 MINING LEASE TO GUJRAT MINERALS DEVELOPMENT CORP.

Gujarat Vadodara

32

56 EXTRACTION OF QUARTZITE FOR CEMENT MANUFACTURING IN BILLASPUR IN FAVOUR OF M./SGAGAL CEMENT WORKS

Himachal Pr.Bilaspur 4.88

57 MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF SMT. CHANDAL NAGAR R/O CHAMBA

Himachal Pr. Chamba 0.4842

58 MINING IN FAVOUR OF M/S ORVIT MINERALS UDYOG ASSOCIATION FOR INSTALLATION OF STONE CRUSHER PALAMPUR F.D

Himachal Pr. Kangra

0.4852

59 QUARRYING OF STONE CURSHER IN FAVOUR OF M/S ASHAPURI STONE CURSHER HURLA PARBATI FOREST DIVISION

Himachal Pr. Kulla

0.4

60

STONE QUARRY FOR FEEDING STONE CRUSHER, M/S ASHA PURI STONE CRUSHER FROM CHAGOLA IN KOT-DANDI-III HURLA FOREST RANGE KULLU ON 30 YEAR LEASE

Himachal Pr. Kullu

0.4

. 61 STONE QUARY FOR FEEDING M/S

BHUVNESHWARI STONE CRUSHER FROM CHAGOLA, PARBATI FOREST DIVISION KULLU.

Himachal Pr. Kullu

1.2

62 EST.OF STONE QUARRY AT BATAUR IN MANDI FOREST DIV JOLE

Himachal Pra. Mandi

0.095.

63 ESTABLISHMENT OF STONE QUARRY BY M/S JAI STONE QUARRY BAGGI-KAWIAL DISTT. MANDI DURGA

Himachal Pra. Mandi

0.265

64 MINING OF LIME STONES IN FAVOUR OF SH. SANT RAM VILLAGE BHARWANA

Himachal Pra.Sirmaur

1.5

65 MINING LEASE TO SHAH BROTHERS FOR KARAMPADA IRON AND MANGANESE ORE

Jharkhand Bokaro 24.856

66 AMLO OPENCAST MINING LEASE TO CCL JharkhandBokaro 222.324 Jharkhand

67 KAVERI OPENCAST MINING LEASE TO CCL Jharkhand Bokaro

77.43

68 KHASMAHAL OPENCAST MINING LEASE TO CCL Jharkhand Bokaro 174.48 69 NEW SELECTED DHORI UNDERGOUND PROJECT IN

FAVOUR OF CENTRAL COALFIELDS LIMITED Jharkhand Bokaro 70.568

70 DHORI KHAS UNDERGROUND MINING LEASE TO CENTRAL COALFIELDS LIMITED

Jharkhan Bokaro

172.2

71 CCL FOR RAJMAHAL OPEN CAST MINING Jharkhand Dumka

69.75

72 BANDHUHURANG URANIUM PROJECT IN FAVOUR OF URANIUMCORPORATION OF INDIA LIMITED

JharkhandEast Singhbhum

130.8

73 DHORI OPEN CAST PROJECT OF CCL Jharkhand Girdih 69.183 74 NEW GIDDI C OPENCAST MINING LEASE TO CCL

Jharkhand Hazarubagh

73.55

75 JHARKHAND OPENCAST MING LEASE TO CCLMINING LEASE TI CCL

Jharkhand Hazaribagh

96.28 Jharkhand

494

76 MININGG LEASE TO CCL Jharkhand Hazaribagh

101.87

77 TAPIN NORTH OPENCAST PROJECT IN FAVOUR OF CCL

Jharkhand Hazaragh 55.69

78 MINING LEASE TO CCL FOR PINDRA UNDERGROUND MINING PROJ.


54.79

79 RAJRAPPA OPENCAST MINING LEASE TO CCL

Jharkhand 510.82

80 MINING LEASE TO M/S CENTRAL COALFIELDS LIMITED FOR KARMA OPENCAST MINING PROJECT


132.28

81 PUNDI OPENCAST PROJECT OF CCL Jharkhand Hazaribagh

52.97

82 ARGADA UNDERGROUND MINING LEASE TO CCL Jharkhand Hazaribagh

90.1

83 MINING LEASE TO M/S CENTRAL COALFIELDS LIMITED FOR KEDLA OCP


168.5

84 MINING LEASE TO CCL FOR KUJU PROJECT Jharkhand Hazaribagh

115

85 MINING LEASE TO CCL ARA OCP MINES Jharkhand Hazaribagh

166.9

86 SAYAL `D` PROJECT IN FAVOUR OF M/S CENTRAL COALFIELDS LIMITED


192.32

87 MINING LEASE TO CCL RELIGARA OCP MINES PROJECT


135.66

88 URIMARI OPENCAST PROJECT OF M/S CENTRAL COALFIELDS LIMITED CCL


91.04

89 LAIYO UNDERGROUND MINING Jharkhand Hazaribagh

78.59

90 GIDDI C OPENCAST MINING LEASE TO CCL Jharkhand Hazaribagh

237.3

91 GIDDI A MINING LEASE TO CCL Jharkhand Hazaribagh

232.42

92 MINING LEASE TO CENTRAL COALFIELDS LIMITED FOR SARUBERA OPENCAST MINING

JharkhandHazaribagh

196.55

93 TOPA OPENCAST PROJECT OF M/S CCL Jharkhand 77.3

495

Hazaribagh 94 SIRKA OPENCAST MINING LEASE TO CCL Jharkhand

Hazaribagh

50.8

95 NATIONAL HIGHWAY AUTHORITY OF INDIA BASARDA & KUMARDHIA - KUNHARKALA STONE QUARRY

Jharkhand Hazaribagh 7.878

7.878 Jharkhand

96 STONE QUARRY IN F/O M/S JAI SHREE RAM STONE INDUSTRIES

Jharkhand Koderma

4.994

97 MINING LEASE IN F/O PANEM COAL MINES LIMITED

Jharkhand Pakur

400

98 RENEWAL FO BENTIBAGDA LIMESTONE PROJECT, BSMDC

Jharkhand Ranchi

9.07 Jharkhand

99 MEGHAHATBURU IRON ORE MINE MEGHAHATBURU IRON ORE MINE

Jharkhand Singhbhum

55.9

100 I RENEWAL OF LEASE 3 OF KIRIBURU MEGHAHATUBURU IRON

Jharkhand West Singhbhum

24.23

101 MINING LEASE FOR IRON ORE IN FAVOUR OF M/S USHA

Jharkhand West 29.4648

102 MINING LEASE TO ZEENATH TRANSPORT CO. Karnataka Bellary

50

103 MINING LEASE NO 1898 IN F/O M/S P.BALASUBBASETTY & SONS

Karnataka Bellary

44.11

104 MINING LEASE IN F/O M/S B. KUMARAGOWDA

Karnataka Bellary

83.62

105 MINING LEASE NO. 2183 TO SH. ABUBAKER IN N.E BLOCK

Karnataka Bellary 44

106

RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE NO 130/1190 IN F/O CHOWGULE & CO. LIMITED Karnataka Bellary 100

Karnataka Bellary

MINING LEASE Karnataka

107 MINING LEASE NO. 2002 TO M/S MYSORE MINERALS LIMITED

Karnataka Bellary

176.724

108 MINING LEASE NO 1659 TO MYSORE MINERALS LIMITED

Karnataka Bellary

38.45

109 MINING LEASE NO 1634 TO M/S S.V. SRINEWASULEE

Karnataka Bellary

60

110 MINING LEASE NO 1046 TO P. VENGANA SETTY & BROS 60

Karnataka Bellary

50

111 MINING LEASE NO 622 IN F/O RAMGAD MINERALS PVT. LTD

KarnatakaBellary 20.23

496

112 DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND IN FAVOUR OF M/S NADEEM MINERALS FOR IRON ORE MINING IN DONOMALAI BLOCK

Karnataka Bellary

53.2

113 IRON ORE MINING LEASE APPLICATION OF SRI SATHYANARAYANA, BELLARY -

Karnataka Bellary

15

114

MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF SHRI N. SHAIKSAB IN VILLAGE SIDDEPUR

KarnatakaBellary 15

115 EXTRACTION OF IRON ORE IN F/O BELLARY MINING CORPN.

KarnatakaBellary

15.8

116 DIVERSION OF 30.00 HA. OF ADDITIONAL FL FOR IRON ORE 30 ML NO.2141 IN RM BLOCK OF YESWANTHANAGAR VILLAGE IN FAVOUR OF M/S KUMARASWAMY MINERAL EXPORTS IN BELLARY DISTRICT.

Karnataka Bellary

30

117 . DIVERSION OF FL OF ML.NO.995 IN FAVOUR OF M/S.MYSORE MINERALS LTD, BANGALORE FOR IRON ORE MINES, SANDUR

Karnataka Bellary

33.6

118 DIVERSION OF 2.2 ACRES (0.89034 HA.) FOR GRANITE QUARRYING IN FAVOUR OF M/S SKJS GRANITES IN S.NO.887 OF GUDEKOTE RF KUDLIGI(T)

Karnataka Bellary

0.8903

119 DIVERSION OF 0.8094 HA. OF FL FOR GRANITE QUARRYING IN FAVOUR OF M/S VENKATESWARA GRANITES IN S.NO.887 OF GUDEKOTE RF, KUDLIGI TALUK OF BELLARY DISTRICT.

Karnataka Bellary

0.8094

1 DIVERSION OF 28.0 HA. OF FL FOR ML NO.1028 IN JOGA RF, HOSPET TALUK IN F/O M/S GOGGA GURUSHANTHAIAH & BROS

KarnatakaBellary

15.1 Karnataka

121 . RENEWAL OF KUMSI MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF MYSORE MINERALS LIMITED

Karnataka Shimoga 24.55 Karnataka

122 ML (LIMESTONE) IN F/O MYSORE CEMENTS LTD.

Karnataka Tumkur

19.38

123 TEMPORARY WORKING PERMISSION REGARDING SITAPATORE MINING LEASE FOR MINING OF MANGANESE IN FAOVUR OF M/S MANGANESE ORE (INDIA) LTD IN TEHSIL-KATANGI

Madhya Pradesh Balaghat

43.353

124 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE BY M/S. PACIFIC MINERALS


20

125 MANGNEASE ORE MINING BY PRAFULL CHAND J. TRIVEDI


4.959126 OPENCAST MINING IN F/O WCL, DAMUA REGION

497

126 OPENCAST MINING IN F/O WCL, DAMUA REGION Madhya Pradesh Chindwara

8.5

127 SAND MINING BY SHRI RAJENDRA KUMAR JAIN,

Madhya Pradesh Khandwa

0.95

128 RENEWAL OF SURFACE RIGHT BY SECL JHAGARKHAND

Madhya Pradesh Shahdol

9.158

129 RENEWAL OF QUARRY LEASE FOR FARSHI STONE

Madhya PradeshShivpuri

217.063

130

MINING LEASE IN F/O M/S SINGH Madhya Pradesh Vidisha

0.99

131

EXTRACTION OF MANGANESE MINING LEASE BY M/S MANGANESE ORE INDIA LTD

Maharashtra Bhandara

6.81

132 DURGAPUR OPEN CAST MINING BY WCL Maharashtra Chandrapur

80.77

133 RENEWAL OF DURGAPUR OPEN CAST MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF M/S WESTERN COAL FIFLDS LIMITED

Maharashtra Chandrapur

0

134 EXTRACTION OF DURGAPUR RAYAWARI COOLLIERY(UNDERGROUND) COAL MINES,, W.C.L. LTD

Maharashtra Chandrapur

1172.74

135 MINING LEASE TO M/S GAHRA MINERALS Maharashtra Chandrapu

4.63

136 DIVERSION OF ZUDPI FOREST LAND FOR MINING IRON ORE MININGTRANSMISSION LINE AND APPROACH ROAD TO M/S GADCHIROLI METALS AND MINERALS LIMITED

MaharashtrGadchiroli 374.9

137 MINING LEASE BY M/SSABIR STONE Maharashtra Nagpur

1.99

138 MINING LEASE BY M/S.BR AKRE Maharashtra Nagpur

2.832

139 EXTRACTION OF MANGANESE MINING LEASE BY

5.72 Maharashtra Thane 1.26

140 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE BY M/S.V.M.KURDUKAR

Maharashtra Thane

1.11

141 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE BY M/S. M.A. PATIL.

Maharashtra Thane

1.26

142 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE BY M/S. SIKANDAR EBRAHIM SHAIKH

Maharashtra Thane 1.42

1.03

143 MINING LEASE BY SHRI NG AJAWANI Maharashtra Thane

1.42

144 T RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE Maharashtra 1.42

498

FAVOURING NG AJWANI FOR STONE QUARRY

Thane

145 145MINING LEASE TO MAHANANDI COAL FIELDS LTD FOR BHUBNESHWARI OCP

Orissa Angule

112.521

146 ANANTHA EXTENSION OPENCAST PROJECT IN FAVOUR OF MAHANADI COAL FIELDS LIMITED

Orissa Angule

62.67

147 JAGANNATH EXTENSION OPENCAST PROJECT OF MAHANADI COALFIELDS LIMITED

Orissa Angule

58.096

148 UNDERGROUND COAL MINING IN NATRAJ IN FAVOUR OF MAHANADI COALFIELDS LIMITED

Orissa Angule

289.856

149 NANDIRA UNDERGROUND COAL MINE OF TALCHER AREA OF MAHANADI COALFIELDS LIMITED

Orissa Angule 325.38

150 MINING LEASE TO TATA REFRACTORIES Orissa cuttack 58.5 151 MINING LEASE FOR MAHAGIRI

CHROMITE MINES OF M/S INDIAN CHARGE CHROME LIMITED (ICCL) IN VILLAE KALIAPANI UNDER SUKINDA TEHSIL

Orissa Jaipur

63.01

152

QUARTZ AND QUARTZITE MINING BY SHRI P N SAHU

Orissa Jaipur 3.089

153 MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF M/S KAYPEE ENTERPRISES FOR THAKURANI IRON ORE MINES

Orissa Keonjhar

146.726 Orissa

154 MINING LEASE IN F/O ORISSA MINING CORPORATION LIMITED

Orissa Keonjhar

9.56

155 MINING LEASE TO KJS ABLUWALIA Orissa Keonjhar

156 MINING LEASE TO R. P. SAO FOR GUALI IRON ORE MINES

Orissa Keonjha

42.417

157

JORURI IRON & MN. MINES OF KALINGA MINING CORP.

Orissa Keonjhar

6.008

158

MINING LEASE TO S. PRADHAJI FOR KALAPARBAT IRON ORE MINES

Orissa Keonjhar

52.002

159 BAMEBARI IRON & MANGANESE ORE MINING BY M/S TISCO LTD MINES OF M/S TISCO LIMITED

Orissa Keonjhar

145.329

160

RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE IN TIRINGPAHAR MANGANESEMINES OF M/S TISCO LIMITED

Orissa Keonjhar 52.348

161 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE IN VILLAGE KAMARJODA, JODA, BANSPANI,

OrissaKeonjhar 463.678

499

BICHHAKUNDI AND BAITARANI RF IN 162 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE FOR

KHANDBANDH IRON & MANGANESEMINES OF M/S TISCO LIMITED

Orissa Keonjhar

453.15 Orissa

163 IRON ORE MINING BY SMT. INDRANI PATNAIK IN VILLAGE UNCHABALI

Orissa Keonjhar.

35275

164 INGANIJHARAN IRON & MN. MINES OF S. PRADHAN

Orissa Keonjhar 15.316

165 BALITA IRON MINES OF S. PRADHAN Orissa Keonjhar

18.347

166 MINING LEASE TO ESSEL MINING INDUSTRIES

Orissa Kyenjhar 152.229 Mayurbhanj 117.84

167 MINING LEASE TO M/S GHANSHYAM MISHRA & SONS

Orissa Mayurbhanj

518.77

168 MINING LEASE TO M/S LAL TRADERS & AGENCIES PVT LIMITED

Orissa Mayurbhanj 117,84

169 MINING LEASE TO A.M.T.C (P) LTD Orissa Sundergarh 23.581

170 MINING OF IRON ORE BY M/S FEEGRADE AND COMPANY IN BONAI FOREST DIVISION

Orissa Sundergarh 39.309

171

MINING LEASE TO M/S M.G. MOHANTY OF BHUBANESWAR.


172

MINING LEASE IN F/O SHRI RUDRASEN SINDHU M/S ROHTAK ENGINEERING COMPANY


173 MINING LEASE IN F/O M/S RUNGTA SONS (P) LIMITED


174

RENEWAL OF LEASE FOR MAHULSUKHA MANGANESE ORE MINES IN FAVOUR OF M/S AMTC PVT. LIMITED

OrissaSundergarh 227 Orissa

175 IRON ORE MINING IN VILLAGE PATABEDA OF BONAI SUB-DIVISION BY M/S M.G. MOHANTY

Orissa Sundergarh 12.058 Orissa Sundergarh 3.921

176 IRON ORE MINING BY SH. J. N. PATNAIK IN VILLAGE


177 M/L OF FIRECLAY IN FAVOUR OF SATISH MOHAN GUPTA

Rajasthan Alwar

3.746

178 M/L OF MASANORY STONE IN FAVOUR OF 11 L/H

Rajasthan Alwar

7.5999

179 M/L OF MASONARY STONE IN FAVOUR OF LAXMI NARAYAN MEENA - FOR 3 L/H

Rajasthan Alwar

2742

500

180 M/L OF LIMESTONE IN FAVOUR OF SRI OM PRAKASH GUPTA

Rajasthan Alwar

9.08

181 MINING LEASE TO ORIENTAL TALC PRODUCTS PVT. LTD

Rajasthan Banswara

36.6107

182 MINING LEASE OF SILICA SAND IN FAVOUR OF M/S MADAN LAL PUROHIT

Rajasthan Banswara

2.3638

183 MINING LEASE TO 35 LEASE HOLDERS Rajasthan Bundi

38.04

184 MINING LEASE TO 7 LEASE HOLDERS Rajasthan Jaipur 118.7562 185 MINING LEASE TO RSMDC Rajasthan Jallore 5.788

186

RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE TO RAJASTHAN STATE MINERAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION LIMITED

Rajasthan Jallore 60.503 Rajasthan

187 M/L OF MASONARY STONE IN FAVOUR OF SHRI KHEM RAM

0.5

188 M/L OF MASONARY STONE INFAVOUR OF VINOD K AGGARWAL

Rajasthan Jaloar

1.4945

189 M/L OF SAND STONE IN FAVOUR OF SALIM

Rajasthan Karoli 1.5372

190

MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF MANGALAM CEMENT LIMITED

Rajasthan Kota

139 Rajasthan

191 MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF SMT. AMNA BAI

RajasthanKota 2.17

192 MINING LEASE IN F/O OF SH SHAH KASTOOR MAL

RajasthanSawai madhopur

25.78

193 M/L OF MASANORY STONE IN FAVOUR OF SH. RAM KISHOR MEENA

Rajasthan Sawai Madhopur

0.42

194 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE NO. 6/84 IN FAVOUR OF M/S MAHAVEER TRADING COMPANY FOR SOAP STONE MINING NEAR VILLAGE BAND

Rajasthan Udaipur

30.24

195 RENEWAL OF MINING LEASE NO 7/84 IN FAVOUR OF MAHVEER TRADING COMPANY FOR MINING NEAR VILLAGE KHANDEL KI PAL

Rajasthan Udaipur

34.22

196 MINING LEASE IN FAVOUR OF M/S ASSOCIATED CEMENT COMPANY LIMITED (ACC) AND CONSTRUCTION OF APPROACH RD.

Tamil Nadu Coimbatore

1.479

197

PROPOSAL FOR QUARRYING AND EXCAVATING GRANITE DIMENSIONAL STONES IN VILAVAN CODE TALUK

Tamil NaduKanyakumari

3.6828

501

MANCODE VILLAGE. 198 KRISHNASHILA OPENCAST PROJECT IN

FAVOUR OF NORTHERN COALFIELDS LIMITED

Uttar Pradesh Agra 235.99

199 COLLECTION OF SAND Uttar Pradesh Sone Bhadra

68.0259 Uttar Pradesh Sone Bhadra 15.337

200 COLLECTION OF SAND Uttar Pradesh Sone Bhadra

42.072

201 COLLECTION OF SAND FROM 15% AREA OF 102.247 HA OF FOREST LAND

Uttar Pradesh Sone Bhadra

15.337

Total Area Diverted

15753.704

Annexure-II STATE/UT Total Land Diverted (Ha.) ANDAMAN & NICOBAR ISLAND 19.591 ANDHRA PRADESH 13,531.61 ARUNACHAL PRADESH 141.67 ASSAM 87.061 BIHAR 414.008 CHANDIGARH 0 CHHATTISHGARH 14,421.34 DADAR & NAGAR HAVELI 0 DAMAN & DIU 0 DELHI 0 GOA 1,281.60 GUJARAT 9,663.78 HARYANA 0 HIMACHAL PRADESH 1,227.81 JAMMU & KASHMIR 0 JHARKHAND 9,059.03 KARNATAKA 7,557.91 KERALA 29.196 LAKSHDEEP 0 MADHYA PRADESH 10,057.78 MAHARASHTRA 4,057.45 MANIPUR 0

502

MEGHALAYA 0 MIZORAM 0 NAGALAND 0 ORISSA 15,386.65 PONDICHERY 0 PUNJAB 0 RAJASTHAN 4,996.12 SIKKIM 0 TAMIL NADU 436.27 TRIPURA 0 UTTAR PRADESH 2,110.27 UTTARANCHAL 246.828 WEST BENGAL 276.91 TOTAL 95,002.86 ************

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF COAL


ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR UNDERGROUND MINING

4151. SHRI CHANDRAKANT KHAIRE Will the MINISTER OF COAL be pleased to state: (a) whether the Western Coalfields Ltd. (WCL) has not taken the required ‘No

Objection Certificate (NOC)’ from the Ministry of Environment and Forests for carrying out underground mining in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra;

(b) if so, the manner in which WCL initiated mining; (c) the quantity of coal extracted from these mines till date and the amount earned on

account of it; (d) whether the Government proposes to take action against the WCL; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

503

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE FOR COAL (DR. DASARI NARAYANA RAO) (a)&(b): Mining operation in the underground coal mines of Chandrapur district is being

continued since nationalisation well before EIA Notification, 1994 of Ministry of Environment and Forests came into effect. As per the Notification, environmental clearance is mandatory for the mines opened after 27.1.1994 and for operating mines, it is required to be obtained at the time of renewal of lease.

(c): Coal production and sale value from underground mines of Chandrapur district

are as under :-

Year Production (tonnes) Sale value (Rs. Lacs) 2002-03 1774295 16600.342003-04 1827305 18186.092004-05 1780100 20733.482005 – (upto Oct.,2006) 1031603 12726.07

(d) & (e) : Does not arise in view of reply at (a) & (b) above.

**********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF MINES


CLOSURE OF MINES

1510. SHRI JUAL ORAM

Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:- (a) whether some graphite and other mines have been closed down in Orissa; (b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the reasons therefor;

504

(c) whether the pilferage of graphite is going on in that factory; and (d) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MINES (DR. DASARI NARAYANA RAO) (a) to (d): Information is being collected from the State Government and will be laid on the table of the House. *******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF MINES


NATIONAL MINING POLICY

1602. SHRI KISHANBHAI VESTABHAI PATEL SUGRIB SINGH JUAL ORAM Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has reviewed the National Mining Policy; (b) if so, the outcome thereof; (c) whether the Government has set up a high level committee to examine the Government and private sector investments in mines sector; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the time by which the report of the said committee is likely to be presented to the Government?

505

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF MINES (Dr. DASARI NARAYANA RAO) (a) to (e): A High Level Committee has been set up under the chairmanship of Shri Anwar-ul Hoda, Member, Planning Commission to review the National Mineral Policy, 1993 and recommend possible amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 to give a fillip to private investment in the sector. The Committee is expected to finalise its report by the end of December 2005. ********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES


DEPLETION OF WATER LEVEL IN JHARKHAND

3712. SHRI TEK LAL MAHTO Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) whether water level in coal mining areas of Jharkhand has gone down due to mining activities; (b) if so, the action taken by the Government to prevent further depletion of water level; and (c) the details of amount spent to recharge water level during the last three years?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC ENTERPRISES AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI SONTOSH MOHAN DEV) (a): No, Sir.

506

(b): Does not arise. (c): Under the Central Sector Scheme for ‘Study of Recharge to Groundwater’, an amount of Rs. 5.03 lakh was released during 2003-2004 for the State of Jharkhand. Moreover, Ministry of Water Resources have also allocated Rs. 10 lakh for the State of Jharkhand for demonstrative projects of roof top rainwater harvesting in 10 schools during 2004-05. *******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF COAL


ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR UNDERGROUND MINING

4151. SHRI CHANDRAKANT KHAIRE Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state: (a) whether the Western Coalfields Ltd. (WCL) has not taken the required No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Environment and Forests for carrying out underground mining in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra; (b) if so, the manner in which WCL initiated mining; (c) the quantity of coal extracted from these mines till date and the amount earned on

account of it; (d) whether the Government proposes to take action against the WCL; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE FOR COAL (DR. DASARI NARAYANA RAO) (a)&(b): Mining operation in the underground coal mines of Chandrapur district is being

continued since nationalisation well before EIA Notification, 1994 of Ministry of Environment and Forests came into effect. As per the Notification, environmental

507

clearance is mandatory for the mines opened after 27.1.1994 and for operating mines, it is required to be obtained at the time of renewal of lease.

(c): Coal production and sale value from underground mines of Chandrapur district are as

under :-

Year Production (tones) ale value (Rs. Lacs) 03 1774295 16600.3404 1827305 18186.0905 1780100 20733.48– (upto Oct.,2006) 1031603 12726.07

(d) & (e) : Does not arise in view of reply at (a) & (b) above.

*************

508

MUNICIPAL WASTE

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLANTS

1521. DR. K.S. MANOJ

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the number of proposals for solid waste management plants pending before the Ministry of Environment and Forests, State-wise; (b) whether the Government of Kerala has submitted a project proposal for solid waste management plant; and (c) if so, the details thereof and the action taken thereupon?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Proposals for setting up of demonstration project on municipal solid waste management for the implementation of Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000 have been received in the Ministry of Environment & Forests and the Central Pollution Control Board from Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Nagaland and Uttar Pradesh. Such demonstration projects have already been taken up in West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Chandigarh on a cost-sharing basis. (b) & (c): Yes, Sir. Of the two proposals received from Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) for Alleppi and Kozhikode in Kerala, one project for the setting up of model facilities at Kozhikode has been already sanctioned in October 2003 by this Ministry and the project has commenced in February 2004. ******

509

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



BURNING OF DRY LEAVES

SHRI SULTAN SALAHUDDIN OWAISI Will the Minister of Environment and Forests be pleased to state:

(a) whether burning of dry leaves in the cities is causing air pollution during winter season;

(b) if so, whether the Government has framed any guidelines to restrict this pollution; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether any technology has been adopted for maximum use of dry leaves in the

country to produce manure and other things; and (e) If so, details thereof and further strategy chalked out by the Government in this

regard?

ANSWER MINSTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a)to(c): Burning of dry leaves emits smoke and other noxious gases, which affect the ambient air quality of cities. Under Schedule 11 of the Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling ) Rules 2000 notified vide S.O No.908 (E) dated September 25, 2000, burning of dry leaves and garbage wastes has been prohibited. (d)to(e): Many State Government/Local Bodies in the country have taken initiatives for setting up of waste processing facilities based on composting or vermi-composting. The Municipal Authorities are required to set up waste processing facilities for biodegradable waste including dry leaves. *********



510

SLAUGHTER HOUSES

1229. SHRI MANVENDRA SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Union Government is aware that a large number of slaughter houses are functioning in the country without solid waste disposal facility; (b) if so, whether the Central Pollution Control Board has taken/proposed to take some steps for regulating these illegal slaughter houses; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes Sir, (b)to(d): The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has taken a number of steps for pollution control in slaughter houses. Directions have been issued under Section 18 (1) (b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 to the State Pollution Control Boards to ensure installation of effluent treatment plants by slaughter houses. The CPCB has also released a publication for environmentally sound management of solid wastes from slaughter houses. ******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

1830 SHRI MAGUNTA SREENIVASULU REDDY

511

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

(a) whether municipal solid waste causes environmental pollution; and (b) if so, the measures being taken to Government to promote various technologies

available for processing of the municipal solid waste?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARIAN MEENA)

(a): Improper disposal of municipal solid wastes has the potential to cause environmental pollution. (b): The Ministry of Environment and Forests notified the Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000 vide S.O. 908 (E) the September 25, 2000 for the sound management of municipal solid wastes. These rules provide detailed compliance criteria for the collection, storage, segregation, transportation, processing and disposal of municipal solid wastes. As per these rules, the local bodies are required to comply with prescribed waste processing and disposal technologies viz. composting, vermi-composting, incineration, anaerobic waste digestion.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests along with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) facilitates the setting up of demonstration projects on the management of municipal solid waste on cost-sharing basis. The Ministry of Non-conventional Energy Sources is also implementing a National Programme for Energy Recovery from Urban and Industrial Waste to promote new technologies such as biomethanation, pyrolysis/gasification and combustion for processing and disposal of wastes.

***********



GARBAGE MANAGEMENT PROJECTS

2839. SHRIMATI MANEKA GANDHI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

512

(a) whether the State Governments and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) have applied for financial assistance for garbage management projects; (b) if so, the details of the application received in this regard and approved by the

Government during the last three years and the current year; (c) whether the Government has any scheme to grow awareness about environment;

and (d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Proposals were invited from the States for setting up of model facilities for the

management of municipal solid waste as per the Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000. In response to the same, 22 project proposals were received through the State Pollution Control Boards by the Central Pollution Control Board during the last three years. Out of these 7 proposals viz. North Dum Dum and New Barrackpore municipality in West Bengal, Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh in the UT of Chandigarh, Udumalaipet Municipality in Tamil Nadu, Kohima Municipality in Himachal Pradesh and Kozhikode Municipal Corporation in Kerala, have been funded on a cost-sharing basis.

(c)&(d): Since 1986, with the objective of creating environmental awareness at the

national level, the Ministry of Environment & Forests is organising the National Environment Awareness Campaign (NEAC). During the last two years the theme for NEAC is ‘Solid Waste Management’.

************

513

NOISE POLLUTION

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



NOISE POLLUTION IN ZOO

1125. SHRI RATILAL KALIDAS VARMA HARISINGH NASARU RATHOD Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the government is formulating any scheme with regard to make the zoo of the country free of noise pollution; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the date by which the scheme will be implemented; and (d) the amount likely to be spent on the scheme?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No, Sir. The Government is not formulating any scheme with regard to make the zoo of the country free of noise pollution. (b)t (d): Does not arise. ****

514



NOISE POLLUTION

1799. SHRI SURENDRA PRAKASH GOYAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government has received several complaints against night flights at

metro airports causing noise pollution and demanded imposition of ban thereon; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Supreme Court has issued some guidelines on night flights; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) action taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to ensure compliance

thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): As per the information made available by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, a

complaint from local people staying in Sahar Village, Mumbai have demanded through Police Authorities that night operation of aircraft between 10.00 p.m. and 6.00 a.m. should be suspended as they create noise pollution.

(c) No, sir. (d) &(e): Do not arise.

**********

515

NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES LOK SABHA


POWER FROM GARBAGE

481. SHRI DEVIDAS ANANDRAO PINGLE Will the Minister of NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) whether any State Government have submitted project proposals for setting up garbage based power plants to augment power supply through Non-Conventional Energy Sources; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the action taken by the Government thereon?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SHRI VILAS MUTTEMWAR) (a) & (b): No, Sir. (c): The Ministry of Non-Conventional Energy Sources has introduced an Accelerated Programme on Recovery of Energy from Urban Wastes, which includes a provision of Financial Assistance to promote the setting up of projects based on different technologies for recovery of energy from garbage subject to eligibility and other terms and conditions. The Programme is open to all States and Union Territories.

*******

516

PESTICIDES

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE LOK SABHA


ILL EFFECTS OF USE OF INSECTICIDES/PESTICIDES

4164. SHRI MAHAVIR BHAGORA Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:- (a) whether large scale use of insecticides/pesticides for increasing crop yields are causing deadly diseases like cancer as reported in the Hindi daily `Rashtriya Sahara` dated July 4, 2005; (b) if so, the details of the matter reported therein; and (c) the reaction of the Government thereto?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (DR.ANBUMANI RAMADOSS) (a) to (c): DDT and hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) are considered by WHO to be possibly carcinogenic to humans. Indian studies conducted on human blood samples collected from Lucknow, Delhi and Ahmedabad during the period 1980 to 1997 showed the levels of DDT and HCH in general population to range between 0.02 to 0.71 and 0.022 to 0.049 ppm respectively. The use of DDT, HCH, aldrin, chlordane, heptachlore and phosphomindon are banned for agriculture purposes. A Study by the Centre for Science and Environment, New Delhi (issue dated June 15, 2005) published the levels of various pesticides in blood samples of farmers from Punjab. The report mentions the presence of HCH (0.057 mg/L), heptachlor (0.0006 mg/L), aldrin (0.0062 mg/L), chlordane (0.0009 mg/L), DDT (0.065 mg/L), endosulfan (0.0046 mg/L), monocrotophos (0.066 mg/L), chlorpyriphos (0.66 mg/L) and malathion (0.030 mg/L). The report states that the observed trends for DDT and HCH are comparatively lower than the earlier reports from India. *********

517



PESTICIDE NORMS

1157. SHRI MAGUNTA SREENIVASULU REDDY Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether western countries imposed stringent pesticide norms in the agri-produce and most of out products do not even conform to export norms; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the measures being taken by the Government to make Indian farmers more competitive and tap the opportunities created by the WTO regime?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH) (a) to (c): The Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) allows member countries to apply measures to protect human or animal life or health from risks arising from additives, contaminants, toxins, etc. in foods, beverages or feed stuffs. These measures are required to be notified whenever international standards do not exist or the measure is not substantially the same as the international standard and the measure has a significant effect on trade of other countries. The comments of other countries are required to be taken into account before the measure is finalised and implemented. Most of our agricultural products conform to such sanitary standards. However, Government of India is also promoting Integrated Pest Management Approach for control of insect-pests, diseases and weeds of the crops which envisages need based judicious use of safer pesticides including bio-pesticides in order to minimise the incidence of pesticide residues in our agricultural produce.

******

518



HARMFUL EFFECTS OF PESTICIDES

1245. SHRI MOHAMMAD TAHIR KHAN MAHA DEO RAO SHIWANKAR MUNSHIRAM NARENDRA KUMAR KUSHWAHA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has conducted any study in regard to the harmful effects on the health of farmers caused by the use of pesticides in agriculture; (b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the tests conducted thereon; (c) whether Centre for Science and Environment has detected the pesticides in the bloods of farmers using pesticides in agriculture; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) the number of States where farmers have been affected by these pesticides; and (f) the measures taken by the government to check this?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (DR. AKHILESH PRASAD SINGH) (a) & (b): The registration Committee constituted under Section 5 of the Insecticides Act, 1968, registers pesticides only after satisfying itself regarding their safety to human beings and animals based on various tests, which differ from pesticide to pesticide, commodity to commodity, etc. (c): Yes, Sir.

519

(d): The presence of 15 pesticides was detected by the Centre for Science and Environment in the blood samples of 20 farmers. (e): A statement showing pesticide poisoning cases during the last 5 years is enclosed as Annexure-I. (f): The Central and State Governments impart training, from time to time, to extension functionaries, dealers and farmers on the safe and judicious use of pesticides. Government is also promoting the strategy of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) which envisages cultural, biological, mechanical and other methods of pest control and only need based judicious use of pesticides. ANNEXURE-I STATEMENT SHOWING THE NUMBER OF PESTICIDES POISONING CASES (STATEMENT DURING LAST FIVE YEARS)

S.No. Name of the State/UT

2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05

1. Andaman & Nicobar NR NIL 69 NR NR 2 Andhra Pradesh 36 120 - 51 NIL 3 Arunachal Pradesh NIL NIL - NR NR 4 Assam

NIL 02 - NR NIL

5 Bihar NR

NIL - NIL NIL

6 Chandigarh NR NIL - NIL NIL 7 Chattisgarh - - - - NIL 8 Dadra & N. Haveli NR 09 - NR NR 9 Daman & Diu NR NR - NR NR 10 Delhi NR NR 17

NR NR

11 Goa NIL NIL - NR

NIL

12 Gujarat NIL NIL - NR 02 13 Haryana 86 141 298

409 304

14 Himachal Pradesh 246 08 143 13 NR 15 Jammu & Kashmir NIL NIL 12 NIL 01 16 Jharkhand

NIL NR - NIL NIL

17 Karnataka NIL NIL - NIL NIL 18 Kerala

1285 5465 1283 560 369

19 Lakshadweep NR NR NR NR NR

520

20 Madhya Pradesh NIL NIL NIL NIL NR 21 Maharashtra 3681 1248 6258 2282 2108 22 Manipur

NIL NIL NIL NR NR

23 Meghalaya NIL NIL NR NR NR 24 Manipur

NIL NR NR NR NR

25 Nagaland NIL

NIL NIL NR NR

26 Orissa NIL

NIL NIL NIL NIL

27 Pondicherry 422 520 470 230 135 28 Punjab

257 286 549 474 310

29 Rajasthan 365

418 NR 397 26

30 Sikkim NIL

NIL NR NR NIL

31 Tamil Nadu 128 84 NIL NIL NIL 32 Tripura

NR NIL NR NIL NR

33 Uttaranchal NR 13 02 13 NIL 34 Uttar Pradesh NIL NIL NIL NR NIL 35 West Bengal NIL 01 NIL NIL NR TOTAL

6506 8315 9391 4789 3255

NOTE: The above information is based on the figures provided by the respective States/UTs/Deptt. of Agriculture during the conduct of Zonal Conference. NR = NOT REPORTED

********




PESTICIDE CONTENTS IN EDIBLE PRODUCTS

521

202. SHRI PRABODH PANDA Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether any scientific analysis of various edible products like rice, cereals, oil seeds, vegetables and animal feed and fodder has been conducted to know the extent of pesticide content injurious to the health of the consumers; (b) if so, the details thereof and the areas where the pesticide content in such products have been found to be the highest; and (c) the measures taken by the Government to ensure the pesticide content at a safe level and to check the unsafe farming practices in the country?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a)&(b): The Registration Committee constituted under Section 5 of the Insecticides Act, 1968 registers pesticides only after satisfying itself regarding their efficacy and safety. Toxicity and residue data generated under supervised trials is analysed and used to fix Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954 and Rules framed thereunder. A statement indicating the extent of pesticide residues in various agricultural commodities monitored under the All India Network Project of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) on pesticide residues is annexed. (c): The introduction of new generation of pesticides which have lower persistence in the environment and are required to be used in lower dosages have helped to minimise pesticide residues in food commodities. Labels and leaflets accompanying pesticide packets contain instructions regarding the approved uses, dosages, time of application, precautions, pre-harvest interval (waiting period), etc. to ensure safe use of pesticides. The Central/State Governments also impart training to various extension functionaries, dealers and farmers on the safe and judicious use of pesticides. Government is also promoting the strategy of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which envisages cultural, biological, mechanical and other methods of pest control and only need based judicious use of pesticides. A Central Sector Scheme for monitoring of pesticide residues at the national level has been approved this year in order to ascertain the prevalence of pesticide residues at farmgate and market yards to enable remedial measures to be undertaken as required.

522

Annexure Statement indicating the extent of pesticide residues in various agricultural commodities monitored under the All India Network Project of ICAR on Pesticide Residues. Vegetables* Year No. of samples Samples above MRL(%) analysed 1999 277 10(3.6) 2000 712 81(11) 2001 796 93(11.7) 2002 592 54(9) 2003 666 35(5.3) Total (1999-2003) 3043 273(8.97) * Cabbage, cauliflower, brinjal, okra, potato, bean, gourds, tomato, chilli, spinach, carrot, cucumber, cowpea, etc. Fruits** Year No. of samples Samples above MRL(%) analysed 1999 122 8 (6) 2000 378 8 (6) 2001 378 0 (0) 2002 359 3 (0.8) 2003 317 1 (0.3) Total (1999-2003) 1554 15 (0.97)

523

* Apple, banana, mango, grapes, oranges, pomegranate, guava, chekoo, ber, etc. Milk Year No. of samples Samples above MRL(%) analysed 1999 194 116 (60.0) 2000 537 94 (17.5) 2001 468 71 (15.0) 2002 No study conducted 2003 No study conducted Total (1999-2003) 1199 281 (23.4) *****


LOK SABHA UNSTARTED QUESTION NO. 1797 TO BE ANSWERED ON 05.12.2005

USE OF PESTICIDES BY PRAWN MAFIA

1797. SHRIMAT MANEKA GANDHI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state: (a) whether the attention of the Government has been drawn to the use of pesticides

by prawn mafia in coastal areas of the country; (b) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

524

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI TASLIMUDDIN) (a): There are no reports on the use of pesticides in shrimp/prawn farming in the

coastal areas of the country. (b): Does not arise.

**********



FUNDS TO PESTICIDE RESIDUE TESTING LABORATORY

2680. SHRI BHANWAR SINGH DANGAWAS Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:- (a) whether the State Government of Rajasthan has demanded to sanction necessary amount for pesticide residue testing laboratory in Durgapur-Jaipur; (b) if so, the amount likely to be sanctioned by the Government during 2005-06 in this regard; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR) (a) to (c): The Government of Rajasthan has submitted a proposal for strengthening and upgradation of State Pesticide Testing Laboratory, Jaipur at a cost of Rs.3.93 crores for establishment of facilities for analysis of pesticide residues. There is no centrally sponsored scheme for the establishment of such facilities. However, the State

525

Government is free to use the funds provided to it under the Macro Management Scheme for setting up a pesticide residues testing laboratory. ********

DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL HUSBANDARY, DAIRYING & FISHERIES LOK SABHA


USE OF PESTICIDES BY PRAWN MAFIA

1797. SHRIMATI MANEKA GANDHI Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE be pleased to state:

(a) whether the attention of the Government has been drawn to the use of pesticides by prawn mafia in coastal areas of the country;

(b) if so, the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRUCULTURE (SHRI TASLIMUDDIN) (a): There are no reports on the use of pesticides in shrimp/prawn farming in the coastal areas of the country. (b): Does not arise.

*******

526

PUBLIC GRIEVANCES

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS LOK SABHA


RIGHT TO INFORMATION ACT

23. SHRI VIRCHANDRA PASWAN Will the Minister of PERSONNEL PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS be pleased to state: - (a) Whether the companies, public sector undertaking (PSUs), co-operative societies, etc. in which Government of India has invested money are required to furnish information under Right to Information Act; (b) if not, the reasons therefor; and (c) the details of the departments, offices, companies, PSUs, co-operative societies, etc. which do not fall under the purview of Act and the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (SHRI SURESH PACHOURI) (a) to (c): The Right to Information Act, 2005, applies to all public authorities as are covered by the definition given in Section 2(h) of the enactment. Bodies owned, controlled or substantially financed directly or indirectly by funds provided by the appropriate Government are covered under the said Section. The lists of departments, offices, companies, etc. which do not come within the purview of the Act, is not maintained centrally. *********

527

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS




89. SHRI C.K. CHANDRAPPAN SURAVARAM SUDHAKAR REDDY Will the Minister of PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government is aware of the difficulties being faced by the people seeking information under Right to Information Act; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and (c) the measures taken or proposed to be taken by the Government to make the process hassle free?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS. (SHRI SURESH PACHOURI) (a) to (c): The Right to Information Act, 2005 has become fully operational from October 12, 2005. Government has taken a number of steps to ensure its smooth implementation. These include creating general public awareness about the Act, sensitisation of government officials, establishing a reasonable infrastructure for operationalisation of the Act, designating Public Information Officers, Assistant Public Information Officers and conducting training programmes for officials and other stake holders. The Central Information Commission has been constituted to receive and inquire into complaints and to hear appeals in respect of any matter relating to citizens’ right to access information under the Act. The Commission shall also monitor and prepare an annual report for the Central Government on the implementation of the provisions of the Act which shall be laid before each House of Parliament. ********

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4124. SHRI DALPAT SINGH PARASTE Will the Minister of PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government officials are using RTI to corner their seniors as reported in the ‘Times of India’ dated November 30, 2005; (b) if so, the facts of the matter reported therein; and (c) the reaction of the Union Government in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS. (SHRI SURESH PACHOURI) (a) to (c): The purpose of RTI Act is to ensure transparency in decision making process and to increase accountability. There is no ground to believe that the provisions of the Act would be used to victimise any honest officer. *************




3198. SHRI DHARMENDRA PRADHAN

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Will the Minister of PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has initiated any public awareness campaign relating to Right to Information Act; and (b) if so, the details thereof and the budgetary allocation for the campaign?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS. (SHRI SURESH PACHOURI) (a) & (b): Government has initiated a number of awareness programmes to advance the understanding of The Right to Information Act, 2005 by the public. These include giving wide publicity of the Act in the national newspapers, organizing suitable programmes for the public as to how to exercise the rights under the Act, broadcasting/telecasting interviews, inter-active programmes and discussions and releasing several articles on various aspects of the Act. No specific budgetary allocation has been made for these programmes during the current financial year and the expenditure on these activities is being met from within the existing funds.

************

530

RURAL DEVELOPMENT

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT LOK SABHA


SUPPLY OF SAFE DRINKING WATER

56. SHRI NAVJOT SINGH SIDHU M. JAGANNATH Will the Minister of RURAL DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:- (a) whether several lakhs of people residing in rural areas are forced to consume highly contaminated drinking water with fluoride, iron, nitrate, arsenic and saline salts; (b) if so, the areas identified in the country where the contamination is beyond permissible limits; (c) whether the Union Government along with State Governments have initiated any schemes to reduce the contamination in drinking water; (d) if so, the details thereof along with the success achieved in this regard; (e) whether any foreign assistance has been sought by the Union Government in this regard; (f) if so, the details thereof; and (g) the funds proposed to be allocated to various States for supply of uncontaminated drinking water?

ANSWER MINISTER OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT (DR. RAGHUVANSH PRASAD SINGH) (a) & (b): No, Sir. 96.13 per cent of the 14,22,303 rural habitations in the country have

531

been fully covered and 3.55 per cent partially covered with safe drinking water supply as per the stipulated norms. However, due to over-exploitation of groundwater and other factors some of the drinking water sources become chemically contaminated and unsafe. The quality of drinking water of various sources is periodically monitored by the District Water Quality Testing Laboratories with reference to the water quality standards laid down by the Rajiv Gandhi National Drinking Water Mission (RGNDWM) as per IS:10500 standard. In some habitations, dual water supply policy is promoted and State Governments have been advised to mark unsafe/contaminated drinking water source with red paint to ensure that people do not use the same for drinking and cooking purposes but can be used for other purposes like washing and bathing. The number of water quality affected habitations in the country, as on 31.3.2004, as reported by State Governments in response to water quality survey ordered in March 2000, is 2,16,968. State-wise details are given in the Annex-I. (c) & (d): Rural drinking water is a State subject. Government of India provides financial and technical assistance to States through a Centrally Sponsored scheme, namely Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP), for supply of drinking water as per the stipulated norms. For tackling water quality problems due to chemical contamination a Sub-Mission programme was introduced in 1992-93 under ARWSP with funding pattern of 75:25 between the Centre and States. With effect from 1/4/1998, the State Governments have been delegated powers to sanction projects under the Sub- Mission programme for which funds earmarked for water quality are to be utilized. 15 per cent of ARWSP funds released to States are earmarked for tackling water quality problems and 5 per cent for taking up source sustainability measures like rainwater harvesting and water recharging. These measures, inter-alia, reduce contamination of ground water based drinking water sources. Fully covered States can utilise more funds for tackling water quality problems with the approval of Government of India. Following water quality tackling measures were taken up by the State/Central Governments under the Sub-Mission Programme: - # Setting up of de-fluoridation plants, de-salination plants, arsenic removal plants for existing ground water schemes, treatment and filtration plants. # Providing community de-fluoridation plants and domestic level filters. # Aeration for treatment of iron contaminated water. # Marking of safe and unsafe sources and social mobilisation for usage of safe sources for drinking and cooking purposes. # Single and multi-village piped water schemes from alternative distant ground water/surface source. The States have also proposed that in future they would adopt an integrated approach to cover quality affected habitations by utilising treatment units/domestic filters, rooftop rainwater harvesting structures, piped water schemes and recharging/ strengthening of

532

existing safe source and watershed based activities. The Twelfth Finance Commission has earmarked funds for tackling water quality problems in the acutely affected States e.g. Andhra Pradesh (Rs.325 crore), West Bengal (Rs.600 crore), Rajasthan (Rs.150 crore) and Haryana (Rs.100 crore). In addition, policy measures have been initiated to increase the funds earmarked for water quality in the ARWSP from 15 to 20 per cent and to allocate the same to the affected States in a focused manner. A community based rural drinking water monitoring and surveillance programme has also been pilot-tested in four districts of the country for scaling up throughout the country. Various quality tackling measures undertaken by the State Governments supported by the Central Government result in reduction in number of quality affected habitations. However, side-by-side, some new quality affected habitations have emerged from time to time due to over-exploitation of groundwater. State Governments of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat have reported coverage and reduction in number of quality affected habitations. (e) & (f): A Concept Paper for seeking external financial assistance for tackling water quality problems has been posed to the World Bank. The projects received from Tamil Nadu and Punjab for external financial assistance in rural drinking water sector including water quality problems have also been taken up with the World Bank. (g): The State-wise allocation of ARWSP funds for the year 2005-2006 is given in the Annex – 2. 15 per cent of these funds are earmarked for tackling water quality. Annexure - 1 Water Quality Affected Habitations Reported By States (On the basis of survey ordered in March 2000 and as reported by States on 31/3/2004)

Habitations Affected by

S.No State/UT

Fluoride

Salinity Iron

Arsenic

Nitrate

Multiple Total

1 Andhra Pradesh

3072 973 0 0 0 0 4050

2 Arunachal Pradesh

0 0

0 0 0 0 0

3 Assam 0

0

7585

0

0 534 8119

4Bihar 43

0

629 45 50 9 776

5 Chhattisgarh 17 61 4932 11 0 0 5021

533

6 Goa

0 0

0 0 0 0 0

7 Gujarat 4341

2575 0 0 1336 465 8717

Haryana

144 72 0 0 0 145 361

Himachal Pradesh

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

10 Jammu & Kashmir

0

0 49 0 0 0 49

11 Jharkhand

15 0 113 0 1 39 168

12 Karnataka

5838 4460 6633 0 4077 0 21008

13 Kerala 34 86 564 0 78 105 867 14 Madhya Pradesh

3764 604 856 0 0 157 5381

15 Maharashtra 800

2077 196 0 296 418 3787

16 Manipur

0 0 37 0 0 0 37

17 Meghalaya

0 0 160 0 0 0 160

18 Mizoram 0

0 26 0 0 0 26

19 Nagaland

0 0 157 0 0 0 157

20 Orissa

504 771 30979 0 0 0 32254

21 Punjab 613 1291 189 0 0 0 2093 22 Rajasthan

8992 54298 131 0 7882 18639 41072

23 Sikkim

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

24 Tamil Nadu

737 674 1058 0 237 2868 5574

25 Tripura 0

0 6850 0 0 181 7031

26Uttatanchal

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

27 Uttar Pradesh

1046 295 2198 0 1 1522 5062

28 A&N Haveli 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 29D&Ndiu 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 30A& N Islands

0 0 16 0 0 10 26

31 Delhi 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 32West Bengal 1346 4126 54711 4973 0 0 65156 33Lakshadweep 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

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34Pondicherry 0 2 14 0 0 0 16 35Dhandigarh 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 31,306 23495 118088 5029 13958 25092 2,16,968 Annexure-2 State Wise Allocation under ARWSP - Normal During 2005-06

S.No

Name of State Allocation (Rs in Lakhs)

1 Andhra Pradesh 20902.00 2 Bihar 15324.00 3

Chhattiasgarh 5154.00

4

Goa 193.00

5 Gujarat 11186.00 6 Haryana 3512.00 7 J &K 19908.00 8 Jharkhand 5529.00 9 Karnataka 15470.00 10 Himachal Pradesh 8585.00 11 Kerala 5386.00 12 Madhya Pradesh 1515.00 13 Maharastra 27592.00 14 Orissa 12405.00 15 Punjab 3642.00 16 Rajasthan 31440.00 17 Tamil Nadu 11875.00 18 Uttaranchal 5725.00 19 Uttar Pradesh 24764.00 20 West Bengal 13308.00 21 A&N Islands 9.37 22 Chandigarh 0.00 23 D&N Haveli 6,25 24 Daman & Diu 0,00 25 Delhi 4,69 26 Lakshadweep 0.00 27 Pondicheery 4.69 Sub Total (A) 257025.00 28 Arunachal Pradesh 9060.00 29 Assam 15280.00 30 Manipur 3110.00

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31 Mwghalaya 3583.00 32 Mizoram 2569.00 33 Magland 2637.00 34 Sikkim 1083.00 35 Tripura 3178.00 Sub Total (B)

Total (A+B0 40500.00 297525.00

Allocation Position Under ARWSP –DDP

1 Andhra Pradesh 130.00 2 Gujarat 1153.00 3 Haryana 78.00 4 Himachal Pradesh 2020.00 5 J & k 165.00 6 Karnataka 2085.00 7 Rajasthan 12594.00

8 Sub Total © 18225.00 Total (A+B+C) 315750.00

***********

536

URBAN DEVELOPMENT

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT LOK SABHA


MASTER PLAN 2021

1095. SHRI VIRCHANDRA PASWAN Will the Minister of URBAN DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:- (a) the main features of the Master Plan 2021; (b) whether Plan envisages removal of illegal constructions and encroachments and initiation of action against officers who do not discharge their duties in upholding the Master Plan; (c) the objectives behind formulating mixed land use policy by the DDA; and (d) the reasons for showing fully developed areas as green belt by the DDA in the new Master Plan 2021?

ANSWER MINISTER OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND CULTURE (SHRI S. JAIPAL REDDY ) (a): The main features of the Draft Master Plan for Delhi (MPD)-2021 are, (i) Provision of adequate housing particularly for the weaker sections of the society; (ii) Emphasis on re-development of existing urban area; (iii) Intensification of development along major transport corridors in the identified influence zone; (iv) Provision to address the problem of small enterprises particularly in unorganized informal sector;

537

(v) Upgradation of old and dilapidated area of city and to deal with the issue of slum; (vi) Conservation of environment and prevention of heritage blending with the modern development; (vii) Vision to develop Delhi as a sports Capital; (viii) Provision of adequate infrastructure services. Perspective Plans for infrastructure services prepared by the concerned agencies annexed with the Master Plan. (b): The Master Plan prescribes policies, standards and Development Control Norms for different uses/use premises. Any deviations from the prescribed provision are termed as illegal construction and it is to be dealt by the concerned local bodies as per the provision under the provision of respective Acts. (c): DDA has reported that the objective of formulating the mixed land use policy is to meet the present socio-economic needs of the society in a balanced manner while reducing transportation needs etc. A proper regulatory mechanism is however, a pre-requisite to avoid adverse effects such as congestion, environmental impact and in-convenience to the people. (d): DDA has reported that the draft Plan stipulates that land upto the depth of one peripheral revenue village boundary along the border of National Capital Territory of Delhi wherever available would be maintained as green belt.

*********

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT


CLOSURE OF INDUSTRIAL UNITS

4293. SHRI RAMDAS ATHAWALE Will the Minister of URBAN DEVELOPMENT be pleased to state:- (a) the details of the progress made till date in regard to the directions given by the Hon`ble Supreme Court to the National Capital Territory Board for tackling the situation arising out of closure of industrial units in the residential areas of the Capital and for preparing a plan to rehabilitate the employees affected by the same;

538

(b) the time by which the said plan is likely to be finalised and implemented; and (c) if not, the reasons for delay, if any, in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND CULTURE (SHRI S. JAIPAL REDDY) (a)to(c): In the matter of unauthorised industrial activity in residential/non-conforming areas in Delhi, the Hon`ble Supreme Court in its order dated 7th May, 2004 in WP (C) 4677/1985 directed Government to finalise steps for making the National Capital Region (NCR) a success for industrial activity by removing the hurdles pointed out by the industry. Accordingly, a working group was set up under the Chairmanship of Member Secretary, National Capital Region Planning Board (NCRPB) with representatives from the Ministry of Urban Development, Government of NCT of Delhi, DDA, MCD and other NCR states. The working group had recommended strengthening of physical and social infrastructure in the entire NCR, cluster approach for development of industrial activities, low cost housing for industrial labour, etc. While the recommendation pertaining to physical and social infrastructure were taken into account in the Regional Plan 2021, which has been notified by the NCRPB on 17th September, 2005, the concerned states are to take further action on cluster approach and other incentives. The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has reported that the Hon`ble Supreme Court in its order dated 07.05.2004 regarding closure of industries operating in the non-conforming residential areas has not given any specific directions regarding rehabilitation of labour. ********

539

WATER RESOURCES

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



STUDIES ON LAKES AND RIVERS IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

4396. SMT. PRATIBHA SINGH

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

(a) the total number of studies undertaken by various agencies for ecological restoration of Rivalsar lake and field testing laboratory and sanitation survey of Beas, Satluj and Yamuna rivers in Himachal Pradesh under National River Action Plan; (b) since when the proposal for allocation of fund for the above mentioned works are pending with the Union Government alongwith the number of such proposals; (c) the reasons for not sanctioning the funds so far; and (d) the time by which funds would be allocated for the purpose?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a)to(d): Rivalsar wetland in Mandi District of Himachal Pradesh is one of the 66 identified wetlands in the National Wetland Conservation Programme of the Ministry. The State Government had submitted a management action plan at a cost of Rs. 9.20 lakh for a period of one year. The proposal was not found suitable and the Government of Himachal Pradesh has been asked to submit a comprehensive action plan for a period of 5 years. Under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP), proposals were received from the

540

Government of Himachal Pradesh for assessment of pollution load in river Satluj in 1994 and for pollution abatement in 11 towns along the river Beas in the year 2000. The proposal for river Satluj was not taken up as the water quality of the river stretch in Himachal Pradesh was within the prescribed standards. For river Beas, the Government of Himachal Pradesh have been asked to prepare detailed project reports with firm costs and following an integrated approach with 70:30 cost sharing between the Central and State Government. The proposal for inclusion of Paonta Sahib along river Yamuna was received in the context of preparation of plan by IIT, Roorkee for coverage of important water bodies in addition to the schemes already approved under NRCP. Due to acute shortage of funds in the X Plan under NRCP, it has not been possible to take them up for implementation. ***********




CLEANING OF RIVERS AND LAKES

8. SHRI E. PONNUSWAMY RAMAKRISHNA BADIGA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the details of ongoing schemes for cleaning of rivers and lakes in the country; (b) whether such schemes have not achieved the desired result; (c) if so, the facts thereof alongwith the reasons therefor; (d) the total amount spent on cleaning of rivers and lakes during the last three years, State-wise, river-wise; (e) the agency responsible for implementation of this project; (f) whether the slum population around these rivers is one of the major factors for pollution; (g) if so, the details thereof; and

541

(h) steps taken/proposed in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRI A.RAJA) (a)to(c): Under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP), various pollution abatement works are undertaken for improving the quality of water in major rivers, such as interception and diversion of sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, low cost sanitation, river front development, setting up of crematoria, etc. Under the National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP), in-situ measures are also undertaken in lakes, such as desilting, deweeding, bio-remediation, catchment area/sewage treatment, etc. Under the NRCP, there are at present 396 ongoing projects. Similarly, there are 27 ongoing projects under the NLCP. The details of ongoing projects under NRCP and NLCP are given at Annexures I and II respectively. The projects undertaken under the two programmes have resulted in improvement in the water quality. (d): The total amount released under the NRCP & NLCP during the last three financial years, State-wise is given at the Annexures III & IV respectively. (e): The National River Conservation Directorate which functions under the Ministry of Environment & Forests is responsible for the implementation of the programme through the concerned State Governments. (f) to (h): Yes, Sir. The slum population around these rivers is one of the major factors for pollution. The non-point pollution arising therefrom is tackled through the schemes of low cost sanitation, river front development, setting up of crematoria, etc. Annexure I

DETAILS OF ONGOING PROJECTS UNDER NATIONAL RIVER CONSERVATION PLAN S.No. State River

I&D

STP

IWC

LCS

RFD

Misc. Total

1 Andhra Pradesh Sub Total

Godavari Musi

3 3

7 1 8

1 1

0

1 1

12 1 13

Goa

Mandovi

1 2 0 1 1 5

542

Gujarat

Sabarmati

1 1 2

Jharkhand Sub Total

Subarnrekha Damodar

1 3 3 3 9 1 10

Karnataka Sub Total

Bhadra TungabhadraCauvery Tunga Pennar

1 1 1

2

1 1

1 2

3 4

1

1 5 11 1 20

Kerala

Pamba

1

1

1

1

2

6

Maharashtra Sub Total

Krishna Godavari

2 3 5

2 2 4

0

0

2 2

4 7 11

Madhya Pradesh

Sub Total

Betwa Tapti BangangaKhan Narmada Chambal Shipra

2 1 2 1 4 10

2 1 1 4

0

1 1

0

1 1

4 2 0 3 2 1 12

Orissa Sub Total

BrahmaniMahanadiCoastal Area

1 2 1 4

1 1 2

3 3

3 3

1 1

4 4

9 2 6 17

Punjab

Satluj

5

6

2

13

26

Rajasthan

Satluj

1

1

2

Tamil Nadu

Cauvery Adyar

6 11

6 3

3

1

4

3 1

23 15

543

Sub Total

Cooum Vennar1 Vaigai Tamrabarani

1 2 20

1 10

3

1

4

4

0 1 2 1 42

Delhi

Yamuna

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Haryana

Yamuna

3

4

1

0

0

4

12

Uttra Pradesh Sub Total

Ganga Yamuna Gomti

14 5 19

6 2 8

0

2 1 3

1 1

6 2 3 11

28 2 12 42

West Bengal Sub Total

Ganga Damodar

43 43

23 23

1 1 2

0 0

11 11

68 68

146 1 147

Bihar

Ganga

1

1

2

4

Uttranchal

Ganga 9

4

7

4

24

Sikkim

Rani Chu

1

1

Grand Total

125 80 17 26 31 117 396

544

I&D = Interception and Diversion STP = Sewage Treatment Plant IWC = Improved Wood Crematoria LCS = Low Cost Sanitation RFD = River Front Development Misc. = Miscellaneous Schemes

Annexure II DETAILS OF ONGOING PROJECTS UNDER NATIONAL LAKE CONSERVATION PLAN S.No State No of Lakes Name Of Lakes 1 Andhra Pradesh

1

Banjara

2 Maharashtra Sub Total

6 1 7

6 Lakes in Thane Mahalaxmi

3 Tamil Nadu

1

Kodaikanal

4 Karnataka Sub Total

1 1 1 1 1 1 6

Bellandur Kotekere Bhishma Lal Bagh Channapatna Sharnbhasveshwara

5 Uttaranchal Sub Total

4 1 5

Lakes of Nainital dist Nainital Lake

6 Rajasthan

1

Mansagar

7 West Bengal

1 1

Rabindra Sarovar Mirik

545

Sub Total 2 8 Tripura

3

Lakes of Agartala

Grand Total

27

Annexure III

State-wise details of funds released under the National River Conservation Plan Sl. STATE River FundsReleased No. (in last 3 years, in lakhs) 1 Andhra Pradesh Godavri, Musi 1600.00 2 Bihar Ganga 25.00 3 Jharkhand Subarnrekha, Damodar 0.00 4 Gujarat Sabarmati 4254.00 5 Goa Gandovi 756.00 6 Karnataka Bhadra, Tungabhadra, Cauvery 2568.00 Tunga, Pennar 7 Maharastra Krishna, Godavri 4594.50 8 Madhya Pradesh Betwa, Tapti, Wainganga, Khan, 3375.00 Narmada, Chambal, Kshipra 9 Orissa Mahanadi, Brahmani 970.00 10 Punjab Satluj 6031.00 11 Rajasthan Chambal 26.00 12 Tamilnadu Cauvery, Adyar, Cooum, Vennar, 29451.00 Vaigai, Tambarbarni 13 Delhi Yamuna 9375.00 14 Haryana Yamuna 477.00 15 Uttar Pradesh Ganga, Yamuna, Gomti 6564.00 16 Uttranchal Ganga 727.00 17 West Bengal Ganga 6907.00 18 Kerala Pamba 75.00 19 Sikkim Rani chu 179.00 GRAND TOTAL 77954.50

Annexure IV

546

Statewise details of funds released under the National Lake Conservation Plan (Rs. in lakhs) Sl. STATE Funds Released No. In last 3 years 1 Andhra Pradesh 80.00 2 Maharashtra 219.82 3 Tamil Nadu 71.00 4 Karnatka 1427.44 5 Uttranchal 111.18 6 Rajasthan 1200.00 7 West Bengal 400.00 8 Tripura 50.00 GRAND TOTAL 5559.44 *******



NATIONAL RIVER ACTION PLAN

212. SHRI CHANDRAKANT BHAURAO KHAIRE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether a proposal under National River Action Plan on Godavari river in Paithan town of Aurangabad was sent to the Government on March 20, 2004 for approval; and

547

(b) if so, the reasons for the non approval of the said proposal till date and details of non release of 70 percent amount to be provided by the Government of India?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes, Sir. (b): The project could not be considered for approval due to constraint of funds during the X Plan. However, it was suggested that the State Government might undertake the project out of the State Plan provisions by seeking necessary funds from the Planning Commission including exploring the possibility of initiating the project with public-private partnership. *******



GANGA ACTION PLAN

1043. SHRI MOHAN RAWALE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the present status of Ganga Action Plan; (b) whether pollution has assumed alarming proportion in Banaras and Kanpur due to discharge of approximately 36 crores litres of industrial effluents into the river Ganga; (c) if so, whether the Union Government and the concerned State Governments are contemplating to take any action with mutual cooperation to check the pollution; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefore?

548

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The Ganga Action Plan Phase-I which covered 25 towns in the State of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal was completed on 31.3.2000. A capacity to treat 865 million litres per day of sewage was created under the Plan. Under Phase-II, 61 schemes have been completed so far. (b): The Government is aware of the pollution in Varanasi and Kanpur due to discharge of industrial effluents into river Ganga. However, the quantity of industrial discharge is comparatively on much lower side than sewage. Also, the industrial discharge is significantly less than 36 crore litres. The river water quality at Varanasi and Kanpur is being monitored by Central Pollution Control Board regularly. The water quality has shown significant improvement in terms of Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD). Despite more than 100 per cent increase in population in cities and towns located on the river upstream of the monitoring stations, the average lean season (when pollution concentrations are highest) BOD level has fallen in Kanpur from 8.6 milligram per litre (mg/l) in 1986 to 5.7 mg/l in 2004. Similarly, in Varanasi, from BOD of about 11 mg/l in 1986, it has fallen to less than 3 mg/l in 2004. (c)&(d): The pollution level in Ganga is being regularly monitored and action has been taken as needed. Most of the actions are taken with mutual cooperation between Central and State Pollution Control Boards. These include joint surveys, monitoring and subsequent action. (e): Does not arise. ********


LOK SABHA


POLLUTION ON SEA BEACHES

1223. SHRI ANANTA NAYAK Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

549

(a) whether the government is aware of the growing pollution along beaches in the country; (b) whether the Government proposes to take any step to keep beaches pollution free; (c) whether any Centrally Sponsored Scheme is proposed to be implemented for cleaning the beaches; and (d) if so the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA): (a): According to the monitoring results conducted by the Department of Ocean Development, the coastal water close to the beaches of hotspots are polluted. (b): The steps taken to abate pollution of the beaches inter alia include: - compliance to environmental standards for industrial effluents. - regular monitoring by the concerned State Pollution Control Boards. - taking legal action against non-complying industries. - strict implementation of provisions of Coastal Zone Regulation Notification, 1991. (c)&(d): No Sir. ************



SURVEY ON CLEANLINESS

2260. SHRI MOHAMMED MUQEEM PRATIBHA SINGH

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Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the number of studies/surveys conducted by various institutes so far on Bias, Satluj and Yamuna rivers and revival of Rivalsar Lake of district of Mandi alongwith the total number of proposals pending with the Union Government; (b) the details of outcome of such studies/surveys thereon; (c) the reasons for not allocating funds to the concerned institutes so far; and (d) the time by which funds will be allocated for them?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)to(d): Rivalsar lake in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh is one of the 68 identified wetlands in the National Wetland Conservation Programme of the Ministry. The State Government had submitted a management action plan at a cost of Rs. 9.20 lakhs for a period of one year. The proposal was not found suitable and the Government of Himachal Pradesh has been asked to submit a comprehensive management action plan for the lake. Studies on rivers Beas, Satluj and Yamuna are being regularly carried out by the Central Pollution Control Board through the State Pollution Control Boards for monitoring the water quality of these rivers. Under the ongoing National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) of the Ministry, water quality monitoring of rivers Satluj and Yamuna is also being carried out by Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala and Central Pollution Control Board. Based on these surveys, works for abating pollution along polluted stretches of rivers Satluj and Yamuna have been taken up under the NRCP in 6 towns of Punjab along river Satluj as well as 8 towns of Haryana, 8 towns of UP and Delhi along river Yamuna. A proposal was received in the year 2000 from the Government of Himachal Pradesh for taking up pollution abatement works in 11 towns along river Beas under the NRCP. The Government of Himachal Pradesh have been asked to prepare detailed project reports with firm costs and following an integrated approach with 70:30 cost sharing between the Central and State Government. A proposal for inclusion of Paonta Sahib along river Yamuna was also received from the Government of Himachal Pradesh in the context of preparation of Plan by IIT Roorkee for coverage of important water bodies in addition to the schemes already approved under NRCP. Due to acute shortage of funds in the X Plan under NRCP, it has not been possible to take them up for implementation. ********

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GHATS ON YAMUNA RIVER

2130. SHRI MANVENDRA SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Union Government has received some representations for construction of ghats on River Yamuna in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Union Government proposes to provide financial assistance for the purpose to meet the long pending demand of the people; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefore?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)to(e): No representation has been received for construction of ghats on river Yamuna in Mathura. However, the matter regarding allocating adequate funds for cleaning river Yamuna and constructing ghats along the river in Mathura and Vrindaban was raised on 16.3.2005 in the Lok Sabha under Rule 377, reply to which has already been sent. It is to be further mentioned in this connection that under the first phase of Yamuna Action Plan, a scheme of river front development has been implemented in Mathura at a cost of Rs. 16.32 lakhs. Under this scheme, repair and renovation of 4 bathing ghats in Mathura namely, Bangali Ghat, Sath Hath Bhain ki Baithak Ghat, Ballabh Ghat and Basudev Ghat have been taken up. It is also envisaged under the ongoing Yamuna Action Plan Phase-II to prepare firmed-up proposals/detailed project reports for balance river pollution abatement works, including bathing ghat development works wherever required, in various towns of UP, Haryana and Delhi. *************

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CLEANING OF YAMUNA RIVER

3775. SHRI SWADESH CHAKRABORTTY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the present status of cleaning polluted Yamuna river; (b) whether the Comptroller and Auditor General has criticised the Government for its failure to prevent misutilisation of funds and failing to do anything worth-while to improve the river; and (c) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase-I was started by this Ministry in April 1993 in the three States of U.P, Delhi and Haryana with support for funding from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and was completed in February 2003. The total expenditure incurred on the project is Rs. 678.65 crore. The JBIC has also committed financial assistance for implementation of the YAP Phase-II through this Ministry, for which a loan agreement was signed in March 2003. The project was approved for the three States of Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh at an estimated cost of Rs. 624 crore in July 2003. The major items of works to be implemented under the YAP Phase-II are: # Rehabilitation of trunk sewers (30.82 kms.) and works of Sewage Treatment Plants (135 mld new and 324 mld rehabilitation) in Delhi. # Construction of Sewage Treatment Plant (38 mld) and Rehabilitation of Sewer Lines/Rising Mains (85.7 Kms.) in UP. # Rehabilitation of Sewer Lines (73 Kms.) and improvements in efficiencies of existing Sewage Treatment Plants in Haryana.

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# Preparation of Detailed Project Reports for projects to be taken up under future YAP Phase-III In addition to the Yamuna Action Plan, the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has also taken up large scale sewerage and sewage treatment works out of its own plan funds. (b) & (c): The Comptroller and Auditor General of India in his report for the year ended March 2000 on the Ganga Action Plan launched in the year 1985, had made observations on the pace of implementation of works of pollution abatement on the river Ganga including its tributaries, namely, Yamuna (through Yamuna Action Plan Phase-I), besides Gomti and Damodar. Necessary steps were taken to improve the monitoring of the project and the works under Yamuna Action Plan Phase-I have since been completed. **********



AWARENESS PROGRAMME ON WATER CONSERVATION

649. SMT. JAYABEN B. THAKKAR Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Central Ground Water Board organises Mass Awareness Programme to create awareness on various aspects of Ground Water Investigation, exploration, development and management; and (b) if so, the details of such programmes organized in the States during the last three years, year-wise?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC ENTERPRISES AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI SONTOSH MOHAN DEV) (a) Yes, Sir. The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), a subordinate office of the

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Ministry of Water Resources, organizes Mass Awareness Programmes throughout the country to create awareness on various aspects relating to groundwater such as prevailing groundwater situation in an area and management, needs including conservation, rain water harvesting and artificial recharge to ground water. (b) The State-wise details of Mass Awareness Programmes organized by the CGWB during the last three years are given in the Annexure. ********



EXPLOITATION OF WATER BY SOFT DRINK COMPANIES

769. SMT. ARCHANA NAYAK Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has any plan/proposal to ban the extensive exploitation of groundwater for soft drink products; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the State Governments including Orissa have submitted any memorandum in this regard; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken in that regard?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC ENTERPRISES AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI SONTOSH MOHAN DEV) (a)&(b): In order to regulate groundwater withdrawal by industries including aerated drink manufacturers, Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), constituted under

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Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, had circulated a list of critical areas to State Pollution Control Boards, Ministry of Environment & Forests etc. which refer proposals of new industries to CGWA for obtaining No Objection Certificate (NOC) before issuing permission. Depending upon the availability of groundwater and site specific scientific considerations in such areas, NOC is granted by the CGWA on case-to-case basis. A pre-condition for such permission is the mandatory adoption of rainwater harvesting system for ground water recharge by the industry. Since licensing authority for any industry is the State Government/State agencies/State Pollution Control Board, any action to ban the exploitation of ground water by soft drink companies is to be taken by them. (c)&(d): No memorandum for banning the exploitation of groundwater for soft drink products has been received in the Ministry of Water Resources/CGWB from the State Governments including that of Orissa.

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ACIDIC EFFECTS ON MITHI RIVER

653. SHRI SHRINIWAS DADASAHEB PATIL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether river Mithi in Mumbai has been declared acidic by the National

Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI); (b) if so, the steps the Government proposes to take to clean the river; (c) whether any proposal in this regard has been received from the Government of

Maharashtra; and (d) if so, the details and the current status thereof?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): As per the information made available by the National Environmental

Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), it has not declared the Mithi River as acidic.

(b): The State Government of Maharashtra has constituted a Mithi River Development

Authority under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister, Maharashtra. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has drawn an Action Plan for control of pollution in the Mithi river basin.

(c)&(d): The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board has conducted survey of industrial

units along Mithi river and necessary legal actions have been initiated against the defaulting units.

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POLLUTION DUE TO IMMERSION OF IDOLS IN RIVERS/SEA

825. SHRI ASADUDDIN OWAISI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether immersion of idols in rivers/sea is a serious threat to the environment; (b) if so, whether the Government has assessed the damage done to the livestock and

pollution of water by immersion of idols in rivers and sea;

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(c) whether the Government proposes to bring legislation in this regard; and (d) if so, the steps taken or being taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Studies carried out to assess the change in water quality due to immersion of

idols in rivers, lakes and estuaries have revealed that the water quality gets deteriorated in respect of conductivity, bio-chemical oxygen demand and concentration of heavy metals.

(c)&(d): To minimise the pollution due to immersion of idols, guidelines have been

evolved by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) suggesting water quality monitoring at three stages namely - pre-immersion, during immersion and post immersion, identification of adequate number of designated immersion centers, construction of temporary confined ponds/bunds, removal of worship material like flowers, clothes and decorating items for proper disposal and organising awareness programmes.

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OPPOSITION BY KERALA ON RIVERS LINKING PROEJCT

680. SHRI CHENGARA SURENDRAN Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Central Agency on River-linking Project is going ahead with the Vaipar Link Project in Tamil Nadu inspite of the strong opposition of the Government of Kerala; (b) if so, whether the Union Government would instruct the agency to examine the

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contentious issues raised against the project by the Government of Kerala; (c) whether the Union Government has received a resolution against implementation of Vaipar Project; and (d) if so, the action taken thereon?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC ENTERPRISES AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI SONTOSH MOHAN DEV) (a) & (b): National Water Development Agency (NWDA) has prepared a feasibility report of transferring surplus water of Pamba and Achankovil situated in Kerala to Vaippar river basin in Tamil Nadu. The Government of Kerala has some reservations on the studies done which have been clarified by NWDA. These issues have been further discussed in the meetings of Technical Advisory Committee, Governing Body and Society of NWDA held from time to time. After detailed deliberations in 19th Annual General Meeting of the NWDA Society held on 26.3.2003 which was also attended by Shri T.M. Jacob, Hon’ble Minister of Water Resources, Government of Kerala, President of the Society decided that NWDA and Government of Kerala jointly carry out a study for Pamba-Achankovil and Vembanad wet land system. Government of Kerala subsequently expressed its inability to abide by the decision. (c) & (d): The Government of Kerala has forwarded a copy of the Resolution dated 6.8.2003 adopted unanimously by the Kerala Legislative Assembly urging the Central Government to give up the Pamba-Achankovil-Vaippar Link Project completely. The Ministry of Water Resources has taken note of the Resolution of the Kerala Legislative Assembly and has decided not to treat Pamba-Achankovil-Vaippar link as a priority link for consensus building purpose. ********




CONTAMINATED GROUND WATER

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279. SHRI SHISHUPAL NATTHU PATLE BRAJESH PATHAK Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has conducted any study with regard to extent of toxic substances found in groundwater and its effects on human health; (b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise and the steps taken/proposed to be taken to contain the quality of groundwater; (c) whether the Government proposes to set up treatment plants to save groundwater from getting contaminated; (d) if so, the complete details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC ENTERPRISES AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI SONTOSH MOHAN DEV) (a)to(e): As per available information, groundwater in major parts of the country is by and large potable. There are, however, areas which have poor quality of groundwater mainly due to contamination from groundwater bearing rocks, excessive use of fertilisers, industrial and domestic effluents, mining wastes, saline water ingress, etc. The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), during its surveys and studies of the contamination of groundwater have revealed that arsenic and fluoride are the main geogenic contaminants. The names of States and locations where ground water has been found contaminated and reasons thereof are given in the enclosed Annexure. Consumption of contaminated water is a health hazard. Prolonged use of Arsenic contaminated water for drinking causes diseases like dermatosis, keratosis, conjunctivitis, bronchitis and gastro-enteritis in the initial stage and peripheral neuropathis, hepatopathy melanosis, de-pigmentation and hyper-keratosis. The effect of excessive amount of fluoride on human body is dental molting, skeletal and crippling fluorosis. Heavy metals like lead may cause irreversible brain damage, seizure coma, fatigue, irritability, etc., and repeated and prolonged exposure of mercury can result in severe disturbances in the central nervous system, kidneys, liver, etc. ’Water’ being a State subject, it is primarily the responsibility of the State Governments to take steps to check groundwater pollution. However, the Union Government has also taken following measures to mitigate the problem of groundwater pollution:-

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(i) The Central Government has set-up Central Ground Water Authority to regulate and control groundwater management and development. (ii) Mass awareness and education programme have been launched on the significance of water economy, efficient utilisation, health, hygiene and sanitation. (iii) The Rajiv Gandhi National Drinking Water Mission, under the Ministry of Rural Development, has also been assisting and guiding the States in the provision of safe drinking water to the rural population under the Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP). In quality affected areas, where groundwater is unfit for drinking, the safe drinking water is supplied either through alternative sources, tapping surface water or by other means by undertaking remedial measures like de-fluoridation, iron removal and arsenic removal. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), under the Ministry of Environment & Forests has adopted several measures like directing the industries through State Pollution Control Boards to limit the discharge of effluent within the stipulated standards, initiation of scheme to give assistance to clusters of small scale industrial units for setting up common effluent treatment plants and taking up of quality scheme of monitoring in critically polluted areas. A new concept of the Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) was envisaged to treat the effluent emanating from the clusters of compatible small scale industries and also to minimise the burden of various Government authorities working for controlling pollution and monitoring of water pollution control. The financing pattern of CETP is 20:30:25:25 (promoter’s: loans from financial institutions: State: Central subsidy in form of Grant). The funds from the Government of India are routed through the respective State Pollution Control Boards. State-wise number of CETPs installed so far are as follows:- SI No Name of CETPs Numbers of CETPs

1 Andhra Pradesh 1 2 Delhi

15

3 Haryana 1 4 karnataka 4 5 Tamil Nadu 28 6 Maharashtra 13 7 Madhya pradesh 1 8 Punjab 3 9 Rajasthan 7 10 Uttar Pradesh 3

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11 West Bengal 1 12 Gujarat 16 Total 96 *********



OBJECTIONS BY NEIGHBOURING COUNTRIES ON RIVER LINKING

PROJECT

1767. SHRI RANEN BARMAN Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) whether objections against the river-linking project are being raised by neighbouring countries; (b) if so, the names of the countries and the nature of objections raised; (c) the forum(s) utilized by them to raise their objections; (d) whether the basis of such objections have been examined; and (e) if so, the outcome thereon?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC ENTERPRISES AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI SONTOSH MOHAN DEV) (a): Yes, Sir. (b): Bangladesh feels that inter-linking project would deprive them of sufficient water for their need in the context of rivers of Himalayan region.

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(c): Government of Bangladesh has expressed apprehension at the proposal of linking rivers in bilateral meetings. The issue was discussed in the 35th meeting of the Joint Rivers Commission held in New Delhi in September 2003. Similarly, the Bangladesh Prime Minister raised this issue during a bilateral meeting with our Prime Minister on the margins of Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand Economic Co- operation (BIMST-EC) summit in May 2004. It was raised also during the Foreign Office Consultations in June 2005. (d) & (e): The Government of India has assured the Bangladesh side that the project is at the conceptual stage. UPA Government gave emphasis in National Common Minimum Programme (NCMP) for peninsular component only and therefore apprehension of Bangladesh is not relevant at this stage. The Government of India has also stated that it would not take any unilateral action, which would harm the interest of Bangladesh. *******



REPORT BY IWMI ON GROUNDWATER

637. SHRI RAGHUVIR SINGH KAUSHAL KAILASH MEGHWAL Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) whether the Government has studied the report of International Water Management Institute (IWMI) on depletion of ground water; (b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; and (c) the steps the Government proposes to take to improve groundwater level based on the recommendations of the IWMI?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC ENTERPRISES AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI SONTOSH MOHAN DEV) (a)&(b): Yes, Sir. The Government is aware about the report brought out by the

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International Water Management Institute (IWMI) during Annual Partners’ Meet 2002, dealing with depletion of groundwater resources in India. The report discusses three dominating problems of depletion, salinisation and pollution, which have far reaching socio-economic and environmental consequences and suggests the following approach for the resource management:- (i) Information Systems and Resource Planning:- To understand the groundwater resource through appropriate systems for groundwater monitoring on regular basis, and incorporating the monitoring data in planning the use of the resource. Also to undertake systematic and scientific research on occurrence, use and ways of augmenting and managing the groundwater. (ii) Demand Side Management:- An effective system for regulating the withdrawals to sustainable levels; including registration of users through permit or license system; appropriate laws and regulatory mechanisms; systems of pricing, promotion of conjunctive use, precision irrigation and water saving crop production technologies and approach, etc. (iii) Supply Side Management:- Augmenting groundwater recharge through community based rain water harvesting and groundwater recharge programmes, maximising surface water use for recharge and improving incentives for water conservation and artificial recharge. (iv) Groundwater Management in the River Basin Context:- Groundwater resource to be planned and managed for maximum basin level efficiency involving transbasin movement or dedicated surface water system for recharge. (v) ‘Water’ being a State subject, it is primarily the responsibility of the concerned State Governments to take steps to improve the situation of depleting groundwater resources. However, the following steps have been taken by the Union Government in this direction:- Steps taken regarding Information Systems and Resource Planning:- (i) Circulation of manual/guidelines on artificial recharge of groundwater to the States/Union Territories to enable them to formulate area specific artificial recharge schemes to check the declining trend of groundwater levels. (ii) Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), under the Ministry of Water Resources, monitors the groundwater level throughout the country through a network of about 15000 national monitoring stations. (iii) Launching of a website on Roof Top Rainwater Harvesting (www.cgwb.net) to make aware and educate the public about various techniques of harvesting rainwater and store it for future use.

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(iv) Organisation of mass awareness programmes and training courses on rainwater harvesting and artificial recharge of groundwater. (v) Rainwater Harvesting campaign has been launched keeping in view the various target groups like youth and children, women, farmers and villagers, policy and opinion makers. Publicity through print media, telecasting of spots on the television, broadcasting messages on radio, holding of seminars, workshops, conferences, etc., have been undertaken for the purpose. Steps taken regarding Demand Side Management:- (i) The Union Ministry of Water Resources has circulated a Model Bill in the year 1970, which was re-circulated in 1992 and again in 1996 to all the States/Union Territories to enable them to enact suitable legislation for regulation and control of groundwater development. A revised Model Bill, 2005 to regulate and control the development and management of groundwater has been again circulated to all the States/Union Territories. (ii) Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 has notified 11 critical areas on consideration of over-exploitation of groundwater resources and 32 over-exploited areas for registration of groundwater structures. (iii) CGWA is regulating withdrawal of ground water by industries/projects. List of these critical areas has been circulated to the State Pollution Control Boards and the Ministry of Environment & Forests which refer the new industries/projects to CGWA for obtaining permission. Steps taken regarding Supply Side Management:- (i) Central Ministries/Departments of Railways, Defence, Posts, Telecommunications, Central Public Works Department and National Highways Authority of India have been requested to provide roof top rainwater harvesting structures in the buildings under their control. (ii) States/UTs have been requested to provide water harvesting structures in buildings under their administrative control. (iii) All the States/Union Territories have been requested for advising the local bodies in their respective States/Union Territories to allow rebate in property tax to persons, who adopt roof top rainwater harvesting in their premises. (iv) CGWB has provided technical guidance on rain water harvesting to around 2000 agencies, including State Government agencies, educational institutions, private entrepreneurs and individuals. (v) The Ministry of Urban Development & Poverty Alleviation, Government of India

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have amended Building Bye-laws, 1983, making provision for water harvesting through storing of water run-off including rain water in all new buildings on plots of 100 square meters and above in Delhi mandatory. Similarly, State Governments of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Rajasthan and Kerala have made roof top rainwater harvesting mandatory in specified cases. (vi) During the IX Plan, CGWB have implemented successfully artificial recharge projects under the Central Sector Scheme for ‘Study of Recharge to Ground Water’ in 27 States/UTs in the country. Steps taken regarding Groundwater Management in the River Basin Context:- (i) Ministry of Rural Development (Department of Land Resources) is implementing area development programmes under which funds are allotted for various activities, which includes soil and water conservation works. However, funds are not exclusively allotted for checking declining groundwater, which is a resultant activity of moisture conservation works undertaken for the development of watershed areas. (ii) CGWB has prepared a report entitled ‘Master Plan for Artificial Recharge to Ground Water’, which envisages recharge of 36453 Million Cubic Meter volume of surplus monsoon runoff, through construction of 39.25 lakhs artificial recharge and roof top rainwater harvesting structures. **********




OFFER FOR REMOVING POLLUTANT FROM WATER BODIES

64. SHRI MOHAN RAWALE Will the Minster of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) Whether the United Kingdom (UK) has offered to share its expertise to share its expertise in removing pollutants from water bodies:

(b) Whether UK has also expressed their willingness to extend further help in cleaning of the Ganga; and

(c) If so, the reaction of the Government thereto?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (c): A statement is laid on the table of the House.

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REMOTE SENSING STUDY ON GROUNDWATER LEVEL

2663. SHRI SHRINIWAS DADASAHEB PATIL

Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) whether remote sensing study is proposed to be done to ascertain the groundwater levels in the country periodically; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the State-wise allocation of funds during the last three years under the centrally sponsored scheme ‘Artificial Recharge of Groundwater’?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC ENTERPRISES AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI SONTOSH MOHAN DEV) (a): No, Sir. (b): Does not arise.

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(c): Presently, there is no approved centrally sponsored scheme on artificial recharge of groundwater. However, during the period 1998-2004, a Central Sector Scheme on Study of Recharge to Groundwater was implemented. Details of funds released to various States/Union Territories under the scheme during 2002-03 and 2003-04 is given at Annexure. ANNEXURE DETAILS OF FUNDS RELEASED TO VARIOUS STATES/UTS UNDER CGWB’S CENTRAL SECTOR SCHEME ON ‘STUDY ON RECHARGE OF GROUNDWATER’ Sl. State/UT Funds Funds Total funds No. released released released during 1991-2004 During 2002-03 During 2003-04 1. Andhra Pradesh 0.00 0.00 52.25 2. Arunachal Pradesh 0.00 0.00 20.00 3. Assam 33.50 0.00 63.50 4. Bihar 0.00 0.00 9.84 5. Chandigarh 0.00 3.74 64.23 6. Delhi 0.00 8.61 92.22 7 Gujarat 0.00 0.00 20.05 8. Haryana 36.41 0.00 107.17 9. Himachal Pradesh 0.00 0.00 81.65 10. Jammu & 0.00 0.00 78.96 Kashmir 11. Jharkhand 0.00 5.03 25.43 12. Karnataka 14.55 0.00 43.30 13. Kerala 13.11 0.00 88.18 14. Madhya Pradesh 0.00 0.00 53.85 15. Maharashtra 0.00 0.00 81.63 16. Meghalaya 0.00 1.65 20.30 17. Mizoram 0.00 0.00 28.00 18. Nagaland 25.47 5.96 116.43 19. Orissa 474.41 187.85 1338.79 20. Punjab 88.98 0.00 361.92 21. Rajasthan 30.52 0.00 122.24 22. Tamil Nadu 15.20 2.55 161.14 23. Uttar Pradesh 27.34 31.64 134.95 24. Uttaranchal 0.00 0.00 2.00 25. West Bengal 0.00 0.42 130.23 26. A & N 0.00 4.53 12.92 27. Lakshadweep 11.85 0.00 19.85

Total 771.34 251.98 3331.03 *********

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MEETING OF NATIONAL WATER RESOURCE COUNCIL

2722. SHRI KAILASH MEGHWAL Will the Minister of WATER RESOURCES be pleased to state:- (a) the main objectives formulated in the resolution adopted by the National Water Resources Council in its last meeting; (b) whether the Government has evolved any mechanism to monitor the execution of the objectives; and (c) if so, the details and achievements thereof?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES, PUBLIC ENTERPRISES AND WATER RESOURCES (SHRI SONTOSH MOHAN DEV) (a): The National Water Resources Council in its last meeting held on 1st April, 2002 resolved to adopt the (Revised) National Water Policy with modifications as agreed to by the Council and directed for its circulation to all concerned. (b) & (c): The National Water Policy, 2002 has since been circulated to all State Governments for taking further actions. The progress of implementation of National Water Policy is reviewed by National Water Board of National Water Resources Council. *******




POLLUTION IN YAMUNA RIVER

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278: SHRI BADIGA RAMAKRISHNA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORETS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the two Yamuna Action Plans launched in 1993 for improving the quality of Yamuna have not proved effective

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the expenditure made on these projects and the achievement made so far; (d) whether the Supreme Court has recently made any observation regarding the

failure to clean Yamuna; (e) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto; and (f) the further action proposed to be taken by the Government particularly in view of

the forthcoming Commonwealth Games?

Answer

MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) to (c) The Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase–I was started by this Ministry in April 1993 in the three States of UP, Delhi and Haryana with funding form the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and was completed in February 2004. A total of 255 schemes of pollution abatement were completed including 34 sewage treatment plants having additional treatment capacity of 741 million litres per day (mld) at a total expenditure of Rs 678 crore. The JBIC has also committed financial assistance for implementation of the YAP Phase-II through this Ministry, the works of which have started in December 2004. The project was approved for the three State of Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh at an estimated cost of Rs 624 crore with the target of completion in September 2008. The major item of works to be implemented under YAP Phase-11 include:

• Rehabilitation of trunk sewers (30.82 kms.) and works of Sewage Treatment

Plants (135 mld new and 324 mld rehabilitation) in Delhi. • Construction of Sewage Treatment Plants (54 mld) and Rehabilitation of Sewage

Lines/Rising Mains (85.7 kms) in UP. • Interception and Diversion of Sewage Lines (73 kms) and improvements in the

efficiencies of existing Sewage Treatment Plants in Haryana. In addition to the above Action Plan, the Government of National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi has also taken up large scale non-sewerage, sewerage and sewage treatment works out of their own plan funds.

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Due to phenomenal increase in population and sewage generation in the intervening years, the quality of water in Yamuna in the stretch between Delhi and Agra has, however, not shown the desired improvement.

(a) to (f): Hon’ble Supreme Court on 7th September, 2005 in the matter of PIL No, 724.1994 has issued directions for taking up the pollution abatement works in Yamuna in a time bound manner and that the progress in this regard be reviewed periodically by the Government of NCT of Delhi and in addition by an Apex Committee under the Hon’ble Court.

The Delhi Jal Board has decided to appoint international consultants for a comprehensive study to find out a complete solution for pollution abatement in the river Yamuna at Delhi. *********



ACIDIC EFFECTS ON MITHI RIVER

653. SHRI SHRINIWAS DADASAHEB PATIL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether river Mithi in Mumbai has been declared acidic by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI); (b) if so, the steps the Government proposes to take to clean the river; (c) whether any proposal in this regard has been received from the Government of

Maharashtra; and (d) if so, the details and the current status thereof?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a): As per the information made available by the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), it has not declared the Mithi river as acidic.

(b): The State Government of Maharashtra has constituted a Mithi River Development

Authority under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister, Maharashtra. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has drawn an Action Plan for control of pollution in the Mithi river basin.

(c)&(d): The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board has conducted survey of industrial

units along Mithi river and necessary legal actions have been initiated against the defaulting units.

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POLLUTION DUE TO IMMERSION OF IDOLS IN RIVERS/SEA

825. SHRI ASADUDDIN OWAISI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT and FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether immersion of idols in rivers/sea is a serious threat to the environment; (b) if so, whether the Government has assessed the damage done to the livestock and

pollution of water by immersion of idols in rivers and sea; (c) whether the Government proposes to bring legislation in this regard; and

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(d) if so, the steps taken or being taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)&(b): Studies carried out to assess the change in water quality due to immersion of

idols in rivers, lakes and estuaries have revealed that the water quality gets deteriorated in respect of conductivity, bio-chemical oxygen demand and concentration of heavy metals.

(c)&(d): To minimise the pollution due to immersion of idols, guidelines have been evolved by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) suggesting water quality monitoring at three stages namely pre-immersion, during immersion and post immersion, identification of adequate number of designated immersion centres, construction of temporary confined ponds/bunds, removal of worship material like flowers, clothes and decorating items for proper disposal and organising awareness programmes.

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LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION-NO. 1778 TO BE ANSWERED ON 5-12-2005

CLEANING OF MAHANADI AND BRAHMANI RIVERS

1778. SHRI BHARTRUHARI MAHTAB Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the cleaning of polluted Mahanadi and Brahmani rivers has been completed; (b) whether funds allocated for the purpose have not been utilised; and (c) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto?

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ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a) to (c): To improve the water quality of rivers Mahanadi and Brahmani, three towns of Orissa namely Cuttack, Talcher and Dharmshala have been included under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). The sanctioned cost for various pollution abatement works in these towns in Rs 23 crores. So far, a central grant of Rs.811 crores has been released for implementation of NRCP Schemes in Orissa. The State Government has spent an amount of Rs.5.70 crores till September 2005. These projects are at various stages of progress. The Central Government is regularly monitoring the progress of the project. **********

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MISCELLANEOUS

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



SHIFTING OF INDUSTRIES

4557. SHRI CHAUDHARY MUNAWWAR HASAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- to the reply given to Unstarred Question No. 831 on December 06, 2004 and state : (a) whether the requisite information has since been collected; (b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and (c) by when it is likely to be collected and laid on the table of the House?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a)to(c): With reference to assurance given for Unstarred Question No. 831 replied on December 6, 2004, regarding shifting of industries in Delhi, communications have been sent to Commissioner of Industries, Government of Delhi; Member Secretary, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Information on this matter is still awaited and as soon as it is received it will be laid on the Table of the House. ********



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ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS

162. SHRI JOACHIM BAXLA RANEN BARMAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:-

(a) the details of Centrally sponsored environmental projects launched in different States, particularly in West Bengal during the last three years; (b) the total amount provided by the Government during this period; (c) the details of achievements made in this regard; and (d) the details of such projects proposed to be launched in various States during the next three years?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a)to(d): The information is being collected and will be placed on the Table of the House **********



IMPROVEMENT OF ENVIRONMENT

3860. DR. SATYANARAYAN JATIYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) the details of proposals received from Madhya Pradesh during the year 2004-05 and 2005-06 for improvement of environment;

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(b) the proposals approved along with funds allocated therein; and (c) the details of funds provided for projects/schemes already under implementation?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): The details of proposals received from Madhya Pradesh during the year 2004-05 and 2005-06 for improvement of environment are as under:- Name of the Programme /Scheme Number of proposals received 2004 - 2005 2005 - 2006 National River Conservation Programme 8 1 National Lake Conservation Programme 2 - National Wetlands Conservation Prog 10 - National Afforestation Programme 4 3 Integrated Forest Protection Scheme 1 1 Assistance for Development of National 22 22 (b): The proposals approved along with funds allocated during 2004 - 2005 and 2005 - 2006 are as under:-

Name of the Programme/ Scheme Number of proposals approved Total funds allocated (Rs. in crores) 2004 –2005 2005-2006 2004-2005 2005-2006 National Afforestation Programme 14 3 3.55 Integrated Forest Protection Scheme 1 1 4.44 Assistance for Development of National 21 14 2.68 Parks and Sanctuaries

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(c): Only a sum of Rs. 12 crores was released during 2004 - 2005 for projects/ schemes already under implementation under the National River Conservation Programme. ********



COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT PLAN

1790. SHRIMATI KALPANA RAMESH NARHIRE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether any proposal or the Coastal Zone Management Plan for Navi Mumbai

had been submitted for environmental clearance; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Sukthankar Committee was constituted to look into this matter; (d) if so, the recommendations of this Committee in this regard; and (e) the progress made regarding its implementation so far?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): Yes, Sir. (b): The Central Government had received the proposal from the State Government of

Maharashtra seeking approval of the revised Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) of Navi Mumbai on November 25, 1998 under the Coastal Regulation

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Zone (CRZ), Notification, 1991. The proposal sought reclassification of certain stretches of Navi Mumbai from CRZ-III to CRZ-II.

(c) Sukthankar Committee was constituted to examine the issues relating to Coastal Zone Management in the Mumbai Urban Area. The Committee also examined the revised CZMP of Navi Mumbai.

(d) The Committee inter-alia observed that the revised CZMP for Navi Mumbai did not confirm to the provisions of the CRZ Notification, 1991 and recommended amendment for the Notification in this regard.

(e) The recommendation was not accepted.

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA



ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS

2765. SHRI IQBAL AHMED SARADGI SHRI V.K. THUMMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the details of centrally sponsored environmental projects launched in the country

during the last three years, State-wise; (b) the funds allocated by the Government during this period, State-wise; (c) the details of the achievements made in this regard; and (d) the details of the projects proposed to be launched in the current financial year?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA) (a): No new Centrally Sponsored Scheme was launched in environment sector

during the last three years.

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(b)&(c): Does not arise (d): No new Centrally Sponsored Scheme in the environment sector is

proposed to be launched during the current financial year.

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LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.378

ENVIRONMENT AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

378. SHRI RAMADAS ATHAWALE SHRI ANIRUDH PRASAD ALIAS SADHU YADAV

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

(a) whether the Government has initiated any campaign for environmental awareness

in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the expenditure involved therein; (c) whether the Government has set up/proposes to set up eco-clubs in schools in all

the State; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI A. RAJA) (a) to (d): A statement is laid on the Table of the House. *********


LOK SABHA UNTARRED QUESTION NO 2664 TO BE ANSWERED ON 12.12.2005

LAW COMMISSION ON GREEN COURTS

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2664. SHRI MANOJ KUMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORETS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Law Commission has given recommendations for setting up of Green Court;

(b) if so, the details of recommendations made by the Law Commission in this regard;

(c) whether the Government has accepted the recommendations; and (d) if so, the time by which a legislation is likely to be brought before Parliament in

this regard?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI NAMO NARAIN MEENA)

(a) to (d): The Law Commission, in it’s 186th Report, has inter alia recommended establishment of separate ‘Environment Court’ at the State level consisting of judicial and scientific experts in the field of environment, for dealing with environmental disputes besides having appellate jurisdiction in respect of appeals under the various Pollution Control Laws. The recommendations of the report are under consideration of the Government.

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Documents

Parliament Update on Environment 2005