Delhi Postal Circle has made Special Arrangements for collection/sorting/transmission and delivery of Christmas/New Year Greeting mail. Separate reception counters are being set up at 52 Post Offices identified as Collection Centres, from 20.12.99 to 05.01.2000. Members of the public can post their Greetings mail at these centres, which will be processed expeditiously. The following are the centres which are in addition to the normal facilities provided :-

'10A'

    The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram, has informed the Lok Sabha that the percentage of expenditure under the tribal sub-plan has not gone down since 1997-98.

    Guidelines have been issued to all concerned State Governments/UT Administrations for implementation and monitoring of the various programmes meant for the development of Scheduled Tribes since Fifth Five Year Plan Period. States/UTs are also impressed upon through periodical meetings of the Secretaries in-Charge of Tribal Development for timely release of funds to the implementing agencies and to send the utilization certificates of released amount in prescribed format, the Minister added.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram in reply to a question from the Hon’ble Member, Dr. S. Venugopal, in the Lok Sabha here today.

'10 A'

UPLIFTMENT OF TRIBAL WOMEN

    The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram, has informed the Lok Sabha that the Ministry of Tribal Affairs implements two specific schemes, namely, Educational Complexes in Low Literacy Pockets for the educational development of tribal women and construction of hostels for tribal girls. In addition to these schemes, a number of Central and Centrally-Sponsored Schemes are being implemented by the Ministry through State governments/UT Administrations and voluntary Organisations. Out of these schemes, such as, (1) Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub-Plan; (2) Grants under First Proviso to Article 275 (1) of the Constitution; (3) Ashram Schools in Tribal Sub-Plan areas; (4) Vocational Training Centres in Tribal Areas; (5) Grant-in-aid to Voluntary Organisations; (6) Research and Training; (7) Investment in TRIFED; (8) Price Support to TRIFED; (9) Grants-in-aid to State Tribal Development Corporations; (10) Establishment of Village Grain Banks; (11) Development of Primitive Tribal Groups, the Tribal women also get benefits for their upliftment.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram in reply to a question from the Hon’ble Member, Dr. Ramkrishna Kusmaria, in the Lok Sabha here today.

'10 A'

TRIBAL POPULATION

    The Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram, has stated in the Lok Sabha today that it is not a fact that 90% of Tribals in Orissa are living below the poverty line. As per survey conducted by the Planning Commission in 1993-94 the percentage of tribals living below poverty line is 71.26% in rural and 64.85% in urban areas, the Minister added.

    The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has been implementing a number of schemes for the welfare and upliftment of tribals in Orissa. These are:-

1. Girls’ Hostels for STs.,
2. Boys’ Hostels for STs.,
3. Ashram Schools for STs.,
4. Vocational Training Centres in Tribal Areas,
5. Educational Complexes for ST Girls in low literacy pockets,
6. Grant-in-aid to Voluntary Organisations working for the welfare of STs.,
7. Grant to Tribal Research Institutes,
8. Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub-Plan,
9. Grant under Article 275 (1),
10. Grants under schemes for Primitive Tribal Groups,
11. Grants under State Tribal Development Cooperative Corporation Scheme,
12. Grants under Grain Bank Scheme,
13. Book Bank Scheme for SCs/STs.,
14. Coaching and Allied Scheme for SCs./STs., and
15. Upgradation of merit scheme for SCs./STs.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram, in reply to a question from the Hon’ble Member, Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab, in the Lok Sabha here today.

'10 A'

TOTAL POPULATION OF TRIBALS IN THE COUNTRY

    The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram, has informed the Lok Sabha that the total population of tribals in the country, States/UTs-wise, are as follows:-

UNION TERRITORIES

* The Census was not held in J&K in 1991 and then Projected Population has been shown for J&K.

** Excluding Jammu & Kashmir where Census was not in 1991.

N.A. stands for Not Available.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram in reply to a question from the Hon’ble Member, Shri P.C. Thomas, in the Lok Sabha here today.

'10A'

    The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram, has informed the Lok Sabha that the grants are being released to Voluntary Organisations running education centres for tribal women in Uttar Pradesh.

    The Minister stated that no such representation have been received from Voluntary Organisations to increase the amount of grants-in-aid and to make the payment once in a year. However, the schemes have been modified during 1998 and the quantum of financial assistance has been increased substantially. The norms of the scheme provide for release of grants in two equal instalments during the year,.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram in reply to a question from the Hon’ble Member, Shri Ashok Pradhan, in the Lok Sabha here today.

'10A'

    The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram, has stated in the Lok Sabha today that there is no provision for allocating funds to the State Governments district-wise, under any scheme being implemented by the Ministry. However, during last three financial years Central Government released Rs.5832.50 lakhs to Government of Bihar for implementing tribal development schemes as per following details:-

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram in reply to a question from the Hon’ble Member, Shri Ravindra Kumar Pandey, in the Lok Sabha here today.

'10A'

    The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram, has informed the Lok Sabha that according to 1991 Census, the total population of Scheduled Tribes in the country was 6.78 lakhs. The information in regard to number of tribal areas which are still backward is not maintained. However, all the tribal areas are backward in comparison with other areas with reference to the various social educational and economic indicators. The Minister stated that the Government have formulated policy and a number of schemes for the welfare of tribals in the country.

    The Tribal Sub-Plan strategy is adopted since Fifth Five-Year Plan with twin objectives of socio-economic development of STs. and to protect the tribals from exploitation. The Ministry does not allocate funds State-wise. However, funds are released to the States on the basis of the proposals received from them.

    Planning Commission had constituted four Working Groups since Sixth Five-Year Plan for the development and welfare of Scheduled Tribes in the country. These Working Groups have included the experts in the field of tribal development. The recommendations of the Working Groups cover both policy and the schemes of the State and Central Government for overall development of Scheduled Tribes to bridge the gaps between Scheduled Tribe population and other population in the country, the Minister added.

    This information was given by the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Jual Oram in reply to a question from the Hon’ble Member, Shri P.S. Gadhavi, in the Lok Sabha here today.

    The Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Commission (MRTPC) disposed of 440 cases of restrictive trade practices and unfair trade practices during 1998 out of a total of 6690 complaints received by it. This has been stated in the Twenty-Eighth Annual Report on the workings of the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act, 1969 presented in Parliament by the Minister of Law, Justice and Company Affairs, Shri Ram Jethmalani yesterday. Under the MRTP Act, 1969, annual report from January to December every year is presented in the Parliament.

    As on January 1,1998, 5666 cases were pending before the MRTP Commission. During 1998, a total of 1024 new cases were received by the Commission. As on December 31,1998, 6250 cases were pending for disposal at various stages.

    Of the pending cases, 67 belonged to restrictive trade practices and 78 unfair trade practices. During the year under review, 15 new cases of restrictive trade practices were received and 33 new cases of unfair trade practices.

    The MRTP Commission disposed of 80 contempt of court cases in 1998 out of a total of 98 such cases during the year. Two contempt of court cases were pending as on January 1,1998. At the end of the year, 18 such cases remained to be disposed of.

    Summing up, the report says that in the scenario of increased fierce competition both in the domestic and international market, the responsibility of MRTP Commission, a sole competition law enforcement agency, to ensure free and fair competition has immensely increased and to meet new challenges not visualised hitherto, it has become imperative that the Commission should be strengthened both in terms of manpower and resources. The Commission has reiterated its earlier proposal forwarded to the Government for amendments in the MRTP Act so that challenges thrown by the policy of liberalisation and globalisation are faced more effectively. The Commission has called upon the Government of India to effect changes in the MRTP Act, in the changed scenario and also keeping in view the experience gained and the orders passed by various courts. It says that it is time that the Government reviewed, revamped, re-drafted and re-enacted the MRTP Act before it was too late.

'31'

    In his written reply on 14.12.99, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri N.T.Shanmugam informed the Lok Sabha that a team of eminent scientists from the Directorate of National Anti-Malaria Programme visited Orissa and advised the State Health Authorities to take precautionary measures against the likely malaria outbreak in the State. They advised the State Government for Fever Radical Treatment in rural areas by deploying District Mobile Teams. DDT spraying, fogging with technical malathion in urban areas and establishment of field laboratories were also suggested.

    The Centre has provided the following logistic supply to the State: DDT 50% -230 MTs., Malathion technical – 2 MTs., Chloroquine tabs. – 45 lakh, quinine injections – 10,000 amps. Quinine tablets – 7000 nos., primaquine tabs. 1.25 lakhs, Paracetamol tabs. 2.38 lakhs. In addition, Chloroquine –2 crores, Quinine injections, 20,000 amps. And 250 nos. Stirrup pumps would also be supplied to the State.

    The cyclone followed by torrential rains has resulted in creation of a large number of mosquito breeding grounds in the State. This has worsened the situation further as Orissa is already endemic for malaria with more than 65 per cent of Pf cases reported from the State. The cyclone has destroyed nearly 90 per cent of the cattle population in the affected districts, which has led the mosquitoes to feed only on humans in the absence of cattle.

'17B'

STEPS TAKEN TO PROMOTE HEALTHY DEVELOPMENT OF SMALL SCALE SECTOR

    Government have taken several measures to promote healthy development of Small Scale Industries which, inter-alia, include entrepreneurship development, technical advisory services, common facilities for testing and quality control and  product-cum-process development, fiscal concessions, infrastructure support, marketing support, etc.

    The number of SSI units in the country as on 31.3.1999 was estimated to be 31.21 lakh. As per the report complied by the Reserve Bank of India, 2,21,536 units were identified to be sick as on 31.3.1998. Incidence of sickness in the SSI sector is due to various factors such inadequacy of credit, marketing problems, managerial inadequacies, etc. RBI has issued elaborate guidelines to scheduled commercial banks and State Financial Corporation for early identification and rehabilitation of viable sick industries.

    Apart from this, the Government is also taking a number of steps to improve the competitiveness and export potential of Small Scale Industries, such as liberal financing to eligible units under Technology Development and Modernisation Fund Scheme, various sector specific development programmes with the assistance of UNIDO and other international organisations such as Technology Bureau for International Industrial Partnerships, Automotive Component Programme, Cluster Development Programme, etc., consortium marketing through National Small Industries Corporation, excise duty exemption/rebate, neutralisation of indirect taxes by way of duty draw back facility, waiver of tax on export earnings in certain select sectors, etc.

    This information was given by the Minister for Small Scale Industries, Agro and Rural Industries Smt. Vasundhara Raje in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

'14'

    India haas offered to provide training for scientists from developing countries in the applications of space technology under the Sharing of Experience in Space (SHARES) Programme and at the UN sponsored Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in India and expressed willingness to consider bilateral cooperation in different aspects of space science, technology andc applications. Several countries including Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal have responded to this offer. The Government of India is willing to consider specific proposals from these countries in this connection.

'14'

    A Doppler Weather Radar is being developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as the nodal agency, in collaboration with academic and research laboratories and industries in India, for the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for cyclone detection and severe weather alerts. Once the development is complete, deployment plan for the radar will be decided by IMD. The estimated cost of the radar system is Rs. 9.00 crores. System integration and tests are planned to be completed by the first quarter of 2000. Thereafter operationalisation of the radar will also be taken up in a phased manner.

'17B'

MARGIN MONEY SCHEME OF KVIC FOR RURAL INDUSTRIES

    The Khadi and Village Industries Commission has launched the Margin Money Scheme for setting up Agro based and other Rural Industries. As per the scheme, 25 per cent of the cost of the project upto Rs. 10.00 lakhs and additional 10 per cent of the cost of the project above Rs. 10.00 lakhs but upto Rs. 25.00 lakhs, is being provided as Margin Money.

    For the steady development of village industries under the Margin Money Scheme, the KVIC has taken the following measures: i) It has involved scheduled commercial banks and Regional Rural Banks. ii) Margin money has been placed in advance with 27 Public Sector scheduled commercial banks to finance the viable rural industries projects. iii) The State Khadi and V.I. Boards (KVIBs) have also been associated in implementation of the scheme and they have been empowered to sanction projects upto Rs. 25.00 lakhs. iv) The KVIC has arranged wide publicity through print and electronic media about this scheme. v) The KVIC has printed and distributed the details of the scheme in regional languages for the benefit of rural entrepreneurs. vi) The KVIC has provided promotional assistance to the KVIBs and State Directorates of Industries. vii) The KVIC has arranged Distsrict, State and Regional level workshops for popularising the Scheme. viii) The KVIC reviews and monitors the Scheme with banks regularly.

    This information was given by the Minister for Small Scale Industries, Agro and Rural Industries Smt. Vasundhara Raje in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

'14'

    It is proposed to build one more reactor in the country to meet the projected future requirements of research and radioisotope production. However, the type of the reactor and its location are yet to be finalised.

'32'

ROAD NAMED AFTER LATE GURMUKH NIHAL SINGH

    A road in the educational area of New Delhi has been named after the late Gurmukh Nihal Singh, a former Chief Minister of Delhi. The inaugural ceremony was performed by the Urban Development Minister, Shri Jagmohan. The renamed road begins at the Lady Sri Ram College T-junction and skirt along Frank Anthony School and Lajpat Bhawan.

    Gurmukh Nihal Singh, who took over as Governor of Rajasthan state after the abolition of the Delhi State assembly, subsequently revived, spent most of his life in the educational field. He was Professor of Political Science at the Banaras Hindu University and had founded the department. Later, he took over as Principal of the H.L. College of Commerce in Ahmedabad before assuming charge of Ramjas College in Delhi. He later became Principal of Commerce College, Delhi.

    The Central Government have formulated several schemes suited to Indian conditions and these schemes are being implemented for increasing production and productivity for Agricultural crops. The Minister of State for Agriculture Shri S.B.P.B.K Satyanarayan Rao informed the Lok Sabha in a written reply that under these schemes incentives are being provided to farmers for use of high-yielding varieties of seeds, application of integrated pest management, propagation of scientific water management including micro irrigation and improved farm implements. Besides, field demonstrations on farmer’s holdings including training of farmers and farm labourers are organised for effective transfer of technology. The Minister said as per the latest estimates the share of agricultural sector in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at current prices during 1997-98 was 27.5%. He said India ranks second in the production of wheat and rice while its position is third in the production of total cereals.

'45'

RENEWABLE ENERGY 2000 EXHIBITION INAUGURATED AT COIMBATORE

    Shri M. Kannappan, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Non-Conventional Energy Sources inaugurated a four-day exhibition on Renewable Energy 2000 at Coimbatore yesterday. Speaking on the occasion Shri Kannappan suggested that excess available coir pith can be utilised as a source of energy by processing it for various applications wherein moisture content comes down. The Minister expressed confidence that the present slow growth in wind energy sector will soon change and the cost of solar power generation will come down in course of time. The Minister explained in detail the energy potential of various renewable energy sources like wind, urban and industrial wastes, solar and biomass. He emphasised the importance of confidence building on alternative sources of energy. He said this would create an atmosphere where more and more investments would begin to come in.

`19’

    Asia Pacific Textiles and Clothing Industry Forum (ASPAC-TCIF) member–countries have agreed upon the need for increased cooperation amongst themselves in the textile and jute sector and have acknowledged the fact that through their synergistic and collaborative efforts, the member countries could ensure that the greatest advantage of the opportunities that this Forum provides accrues to the Asia-Pacific countries. During the two-day deliberations of the 4^th Meeting of ASPAC–TCIF, which concluded here last evening, 99 delegates from 12 member-countries participated which included China, Japan, Australia, Taiwan and Korea.

    In a meeting convened by the Home Minister on November 17, 1999 with the Chief Minister, J&K, Union Finance Minister, Defence Minister and Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, the security and financial situation in J&K was comprehensively reviewed. In the said meeting, it was decided inter-alia that representatives from the Planning Commission, Department of Expenditure and Ministry of Home Affairs would, after discussions with the representatives of the State Government work out the financial requirements of the State Government for the current financial year ending March 2000 in the form of a financial package. Pursuant to this decision, a meeting took place on November 22, 1999 in Planning Commission in which officers from the Finance Ministry, State Government and the Ministry of Home Affairs participated. Another meeting took place on November 25, 1999.

    There is no proposal for constituting a Committee for the North-Eastern States regarding the financial requirements.

    This information was given by Shri Ch. Vidyasagar Rao, Minister of State for Home Affairs in reply to a written question in Rajya Sabha by Shri W. Angou Singh.

    There have been continuous efforts on the part of Pak ISI and pro-Pak militant outfits to induct more mercenaries from across the border/LOC/ with a view to carrying out terrorist activities. It is difficult to precisely ascertain the exact level of infiltration.

    A close and continuous watch is being kept and all necessary efforts, including improved border management and sustained operations against terrorists and subversive elements, are being made to ensure that such designs are not allowed to succeed. Government have taken several steps which include sensitising and gearing up of the intelligence machinery, sharing of intelligence and coordinated action by concerned Central and State agencies, border fencing, intensification of border patrolling, upgrading of technical equipment with the security forces and increasing the number of check posts.

    This information was given by Shri Ch. Vidyasagar Rao, Minister of State for Home Affairs in reply to a written question in Rajya Sabha by Smt. Veena Verma.

    The Government of India have made several appeals to United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) militants to give up arms and to come forward for unconditional talks to settle the issue through dialogue. The ULFA is insisting on conditions which are unacceptable to the Government of India. The Government of India continues to take necessary measures to neutralise ULFA, both in Assam & Bhutan and is in constant touch with the Government of Bhutan with a view to flush out the ULFA militants operating from within Bhutan.

    The Government has adopted a multi pronged approach which includes, inter alia, strengthening border management, neutralising plans of the militants by pro active action against them in the hinterland, gearing up intelligence machinery, greater functional integration through an institutional framework of Operation Groups and Intelligence Groups of the UHQ at all levels, improved technology, weapons and equipments for security forces etc. Steps have also been taken afresh to flush out militants, check infiltration and curb militant activities including closer vigil on the border, by intensive patrolling and extensive search operations.

    This information was given by Shri I.D. Swami, Minister of State for Home Affairs in reply to a written question in Rajya Sabha by Shri C. Ramachandraiah.

    The food and agro-based processing sector has been included within the definition of priority sector for bank lending. However, priority sector lending norms are not applicable to financial institutions. The target for lending to priority sector for Indian Commercial Banks is 40 per cent of net bank credit. 18 per cent of net bank credit is targeted for agriculture, out of which 10 per cent of net bank credit is for weaker sections.

    Investment of Rs.1000 crore in food processing sector generates employment to 54,000 individuals. The employment generation is comparatively much more in food processing sector than investment in any other sector.

    No separate target within priority sector has been fixed for lending to food and agro-based processing sector. The Government has, however, taken a number of policy initiatives to promote the growth of processed food sector in the country. Automatic approval for foreign equity upto 51 per cent is available for most of the processed food items. Most of the processed food items have been exempted from the purview of licencing under industries (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951. Further excise and customs duties for food processing items have been rationalised.

    Under the Plan Schemes of the Department of Food Processing Industries, financial assistance in the form of soft loan and grant is provided to private industries, PSUs , NGOs , Co-operatives, Human Resource Development Organisations and Research and Development Institutions for the development of processed food sector. These schemes are project-oriented.

    This was stated by Minister of Agriculture Shri Nitish Kumar today in Lok Sabha in reply to questions raised by Shri Nawal Kishore Rai.

    The Union Minister of Law, Justice and Company Affairs, Shri Ram Jethmalani was presented a book titled "Visionaries through the Golden Journey" containing the speeches of past Presidents of the Institute of Chartered Accounts of India (ICAI), marking the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Institute by its President Shri S.P. Chhajad at a function here today.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Jethmalani congratulated Shri Chhajad on successful workings of the ICAI during the last 50 years and its onerous contributions to the growth of national economy and corporate sector especially corporate governance.

    Shri Chhajad assured the Law Minister of the continuing endeavour of the ICAI towards excellence, independence and integrity of the profession of chartered accountants.

    Later, a group of 30 students of the National Institute of Legal Studies, Bangalore, representing fifth and final year, called on the Law Minister and sought his blessings for a rise in the legal profession after their successful completion of the five year integrated course. Responding, Shri Jethmalani advised them to develop more and more animal instincts with a little bit knowledge of law, sound common sense and enough of experience about how life is lived to be successful in the legal profession.

SPURIOUS FERTILIZERS AND SEEDS

    Government is not aware of any spurious fertilizers, seeds and pesticides being sold in large scale in the country. Giving this information in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today the Minister of State for Agriculture Shri S.B.P.B.K Satyanarayan Rao said the requirement of States for inputs such as seeds, fertilisers and pesticides are assessed at Zonal and National conferences and through periodical reports received from State Governments. He said the existing acts on fertiliser control seed and insecticide are being strictly implemented to ensure that the quality of inputs supplied to farmers are as per required standards.

'43'

    A 17-member delegation led by Mr. He Rongfel from China Township Enterprise Association called on Secretary, Rural Development, Dr. P.L.S. Reddy here yesterday. In the meeting, the two sides discussed modalities of cooperation with Indian Government and Non-Governmental Agencies in the areas of technological cooperation and sharing of expertise, experience and information. The meeting was also attended by other senior officials of the Ministry of Rural Development.

    The Secretary suggested that the two countries could engage in technology transfer including the latest technologies of silk production, fabrication of silk products and producing high class silk fabrics. He further suggested that a Working Group could be created to identify technologies developed in India which may be relevant to China and a similar exercise could be done at their end. He expressed keenness that the Association members should enter into both technical and financial collaboration to set up a joint venture in India in areas such as improving the quality of water in rural areas, developing clusters of home for poor people and establishment of Township Enterprises with assured marketing link up, light engineering and leather manufacturers. He welcomed concrete ideas and proposals on the subject so that there could be development in some of the specific areas mentioned above.

    Earlier, welcoming the delegation, Dr. Reddy said that China Township & Village Enterprises have made an important contribution in the economy of the country both in terms of manufacturing value added items, exports and job creation. It had also contributed towards improving the quality of life of the people in the rural areas. Dr. Reddy further stated that the Indian economy has also opened up and a beneficial flow of technology relevant to the economy is being encouraged to bring about a qualitative change in the lives of the poor people in the villages. He apprised the delegation of the various schemes for generating self employment, rural housing and drinking water supply.

    This visit was organised by World Association for Small & Medium Enterprises(WASME), New Delhi. WASME is a Non-Governmental Organisation working in the field of Rural Development. Mr. He Rongfel is Permanent Vice Chairman of Zhejiang Association for Township Enterprises and Vice Director of Zhejiang Provincial Township Enterprise Bureau.

MAJOR GAINS FOR INDIA UNDER MONTREAL PROTOCOL

    The Executive Committee of the Montreal Protocol has approved a total of $82 million for gradual phase out of CFC (Chlorofluorocarbons) production in India. This is the total funding that would be available to India from the Multi-Lateral Fund for cessation of production of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS). The aid will be given over a period of ten years. Out of $82 m, India would be getting $12 million during 1999, and $11 m each in the next two years and from 2002-2009, $6 m would be given every year for ODS phase out projects and activities in the country.

    Total CFC production in India will not exceed 22,588 tonne in 1999, which would be subsequently phased out in the year 2010. India will ensure accurate monitoring of the phase out, consistent with its obligations under the Protocol.

    11^th Meeting of Parties to the Montreal Protocol, held recently, also decided to replenish the Multi-Lateral Fund for the period 2000-2002 at the level of $440 m to fund the conversion projects to Ozone-friendly technologies in developing countries. During the meeting, India was elected as the Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Montreal Protocol for the year 2000.

    The 29^th meeting of the Executive Committee and 11^th Meeting of Parties to the Montreal Protocol were held in Beijing, China from 21^st November –3^rd December, 199. The Indian delegation was led by Minister for Environment and Forests Shri T.R.Baalu.

    India is a signatory to the Montreal Protocol which stipulates that CFCs used for refrigeration and foam blowing, halon used for fire fighting and other chemicals with ozone depleting substances are to be phased out. Substitute chemicals with no ozone depleting potential are to be used and the changeover will take place over the next 10 years in developing countries.

    India’s per capita consumption of ODS is at present less than 3 gm and did not cross 20 gm between 1995-97 as against 300 gm permitted under the Protocol. India has ensured that the ODS phase out would be done without undue economic burden to both consumers and industry with the help of the Protocol’s financial mechanism.

'22'

INTEGRATE ALL HEALTH PROGRAMMES FOR BETTER IMPLEMENTATION

PANT LAUNCHES PHASE-II OF NATIONAL AIDS CONTROL PROGRAMME

    AIDS prevention and control measures supportive of National Social and Cultural ethos need to be vigorously pursued to create conditions in which infection rates can be maintained at low levels. The country must gear up to provide necessary prevention, diagnostic, promotive, curative and rehabilitated care to tackle this problem. The Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, Shri K C Pant, said this here today while launching second Phase of National AIDS Control Programme. He said existing health care infrastructure in government and private sector needs to be appropriately strengthened to tackle this problem.

    Shri Pant said though the prevalence of HIV infection in India was relatively low at 2.6 persons per thousand yet there was no room for complacency as nearly 10 million people were likely to be HIV positive by the end of next decade. He said low level of infection was both because of cultural ethos and dedicated work done by the committed professionals.

    He said in view of the magnitude of the problem the planning Commission has envisaged focused attention on effective implementation of programme to ensure safety of blood and blood products. The Ninth Plan has also targeted better reach and spread of HIV testing network, while augmenting HIV/AIDS care facilities. He said the existing gaps and infrastructure and manpower at various levels have to be identified and filled for effective implementation.

    Shri Pant said the country has to build up mechanisms to integrate AIDS control programmes with the existing health services and institution to achieve sustainability in the long run. He said steps need to be taken to integrate planning, implementation and monitoring of AIDS Phase-II programme with other ongoing health programmes at all levels.

    Shri Pant suggested formation of single State or District levels societies for all health and family welfare programmes for speeder implementation of horizontal integration of the activities aimed at improving effective functioning and achieving better co-ordination between various programmes.

'28'

THERMAL CENTENARY POSTAGE STAMP RELEASED

    Smt. Jayawanti Mehta, Minister of State for Power today released a postage stamp as part of the concluding ceremony of thermal centenary celebrations. Smt. Mehta also inaugurated a three-day Exhibition on Thermal Power Generation. Speaking on the occasion the Minister expressed happiness that special commemorative postage stamp and first day cover would be released as part of the Thermal Centenary Celebrations. She said electricity is an important infrastructure and was necessary for the progress of a nation industrially,agriculturally or in terms of quality of life of its people. She said from the commissioning of one MW Thermal Power Plant in Calcutta in 1899 we have come very far to producing 67,000 MW Thermal Power. Inaugurating the Exhibition Smt. Mehta said such exhibition is not only show case the State of the Art in Thermal Power Generation but will also offer opportunities for interaction among different agencies.

    Out of re-assessed hydro-electric potential of major/medium projects of Himachal Pradesh at 11,647 MW, only 3,139.49 MW (about 27 percent of the assessed potential) capacity have been developed or under execution and cleared by Central Electricity Authority and balance about 73 per cent is still to be tapped. The assessed hydro-electric potential of Himachal Pradesh is being developed in coordination with Northern States. However, some projects like Kishau and Renuka are held up for settlement of inter-state disputes.

'6'

    The Government has taken a number of initiatives to eradicate corruption. In his address to the nation on 16.10.1999 the Prime Minister had declared that principal of zero tolerance will be applied by the Government while dealing with corruption. Some of these initiatives are: 1) Statutory status was conferred upon the CVC by the CVC Ordinance(s) of 1998 dt. 25.8.98 and 27.10.98 and of 1999 dt. 8.1.1999. The CVC Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 7.12.98 and passed by the Lok Sabha on 15.3.99, however, it lapsed on the dissolution of the 12^th Lok Sabha on 26.4.99. Steps are being taken to re-introduce the Bill. 2) The Central Vigilance Commission has been vested with powers to exercise superintendence over the Vigilance administration. The CVC has issued various instructions to reduce the scope of corruption or subjects like creating a culture of honesty; greater transparency in administration, sensitising the public etc. The CVC has also issued Special Chapters on Vigilance Management in Public Sector Banks and Public Sector Undertakings. 3) An Anti-Corruption Unit in the Prime Minister’s Office is functioning since 1997 to monitor complaints of corruption received. 4) The Government has adopted a three pronged approach of Preventive, Surveillance and Deterrent/punitive action to tackle the menace of corruption. 5) Recognising that an important aspect of Preventive Vigilance is to ensure transparency in public administration, measures of administrative and setting up of Facilitation Centres have been initiated. The review and simplification of laws, rules and procedures has also been taken up. 6) The Government set up, a Working Group on ‘Right to Information and Transparency’ in January, 1997. The recommendation made by the Group for legislation of the ‘Freedom of Information Bill’ is at an advanced stage of consideration. 7) Lokpal Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 3.8.98 but lapsed on the dissolution of the 12^th Lok Sabha on 26.4.1999. steps are being taken to introduce the Bill again.

    This information was given by the Minister of State in the Department of Personnel and Training Smt. Vasundhara Raje in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

    The Central Government has decided the following disinvestment strategy for Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL).

    The Khetri unit of HCL along with Taloja Plant will be formed into a separate company. The assets of these units will be valued and will form 49% contribution from HCL in a new company in which 51% equity will be injected by a strategic partner.

    The remaining portion of HCL comprising the Indian Copper Complex and the Malanjkhand Copper Project will be restructured by closure of unviable mines in a phased manner with consequent separation of surplus manpower under Voluntary Retirement Scheme. HCL will then look for one more strategic partner for 51% disinvestment in the remainder of HCL.

    While approving capital restructuring proposal for HCL in December 1998, the Government has sanctioned a non-plan loan of Rs. 414 crore for separation of surplus employees of HCL under Voluntary Retirement Scheme in a phased manner during 1998-99 to 2001-2002. Infusion of fresh resources by the strategic partner is expected to result in sustained employment for the remaining work force.

    This information was given by Smt. Rita Verma, Minister of State in the Ministry of Mines and Minerals in Rajya Sabha today.

    The Human Resource Development Minister, Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi has called upon experts to develop low cost techniques of distant education to free the country from illiteracy in the coming years. Addressing a Workshop on the Use of Distant Education in increasing literacy among children of 6-14 age group here today, the Minister said, that we need not try to replicate the model adopted in other regions of the world. Recalling that India had been a pioneer in distant education, Dr. Joshi said, that education should generate social forces.

    Talking about the quality of education, the Minister said it should be aimed at creating total personality. He said a fundamental change is required in the thinking towards education. He regretted that education at some places has become a subject to the market forces. He called upon the participants to take up removal of illiteracy with missionary zeal to take the country ahead through teaching.

    Over 150 experts and administrators are participating in the three day workshop organised by the National Open School. The National Open School employees also presented a cheque of Rs.40,597/- to Dr. Mulri Manohar Joshi towards the Orissa Cyclone victims.

    The Human Resource Development Minister, Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi has called upon experts to develop low cost techniques of distant education to free the country from illiteracy in the coming years. Addressing a Workshop on the Use of Distant Education in increasing literacy among children of 6-14 age group here today, the Minister said, that we need not try to replicate the model adopted in other regions of the world. Recalling that India had been a pioneer in distant education, Dr. Joshi said, that education should generate social forces.

    Talking about the quality of education, the Minister said it should be aimed at creating total personality. He said a fundamental change is required in the thinking towards education. He regretted that education at some places has become a subject to the market forces. He called upon the participants to take up removal of illiteracy with missionary zeal to take the country ahead through teaching.

    Over 150 experts and administrators are participating in the three day workshop organised by the National Open School. The National Open School employees also presented a cheque of Rs.40,597/- to Dr. Mulri Manohar Joshi towards the Orissa Cyclone victims.

'8'

    Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi, Minister for Human Resource Development and Science & Technology has stated that National Council of Educational Research and Training has undertaken an exercise of renewing curriculum of school education at an appropriate time as we are entering the new millennium and there will be many changes and many new challenges to be negotiated. Dr. Joshi was delivering his presidential address here today at the 36^th Annual General Body Meeting of the NCERT.

    Dr. Joshi said, revolutionary developments in information technology have shrunk the distances and the nation is exposed to wide varieties of influences from all over the world. He said, the child entering school today would grow up as an adult in a world altogether transformed by information technology and in case we do not strengthen nations foundations and help built the superstructures involving all younger generations now, we stand at a great risk. Dr. Joshi expressed the hope that NCERT will be professionally prepared to develop as a national centre for computer based learning in school education and to support initiatives in this area.

    Dr. Joshi said, the new challenges that have emerged before NCERT include critical areas like Universalisation of Elementary Education (UEE), work experience and vocationalisation of higher secondary education, value education, curriculum renewal, information technology and a stress-free teaching and learning environment in school education. He added that good quality school education is the daunting responsibility before NCERT which it has to shoulder with greater professionalism and commitment.

    Expressing concern over the heavy load of books on children, he said, education should aim at all-round development of students, their knowledge of science, literature, music, fine arts etc. But this should not necessarily mean more books in the curricula.

    Dr. Joshi said that the Centre, in association with the States and Panchayat Raj Institutions, is contemplating to embark on a comprehensive plan, to ensure UEE covering all children up to 14 years of age. The Scheme Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan is to be planned and implemented by the district level bodies in a mission mode. The role of NCERT in this task especially in ensuring good quality education would become more comprehensive over a much wider canvas.

    Dr. Joshi urged that NCERT should take initiative to integrate children with certain disabilities in the normal schooling system.