Test on Environment - wwfenvis.nic.in

Environment and Forests on Environment: Rajya Sabha 2013-14

Q. No. Q. Type Date Ans by Ministry Members Title of the Questions Subject Specific Political Party

State Representative

*26 Starred 26.02.2013 Environment and Forests

Dr. Kanwar Deep Singh

Cabinet Committee on Investment

Environmental Conservation AITC Jharkhand

EIA Forest Conservation *33 Starred 26.02.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Om Prakash Mathur

Shifting of tigers from Ranthambore Tiger Reserve to Sariska National Park

Wildlife Management BJP Rajasthan


Shri Motilal Vora Damage to crops due to pollution by power plants

Agriculture INC Chhattisgarh

Energy Studies Pollution

156 Unstarred 26.02.2013 Environment and Forests

Shri Om Prakash Mathur

Reduction of industrial areas around National Sanctuaries



Dr. T. Subbarami Reddy

Air pollution in major cities Pollution INC Andhra Pradesh


Shri Y. S. Chowdary

Pollution level in Yamuna River

Freshwater and Marine Conservation

TDP Andhra Pradesh

Pollution 159 Unstarred 26.02.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Vijay Jawaharlal Darda

Decline in forest cover in India

Forest Conservation INC Maharashtra


Shri Faggan Singh Kulaste

Re-location of people from buffer zones around national parks

Wildlife Management BJP Madhya Pradesh


Shri Piyush Goyal Installation of Solar Surveillance System to detect sand miners and poachers

Alternative Technologies BJP Maharashtra

Environment and Forest Trade

Wildlife Management 162 Unstarred 26.02.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Y. S. Chowdary

Development of housing projects on wetland

Environmental Conservation TDP Andhra Pradesh

Freshwater and Marine

Conservation 163 Unstarred 26.02.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Piyush Goyal New Board for

environmental clearance of various projects

EIA BJP Maharashtra


Shri Rasheed Masood

Death of blackbucks in Kanpur Zoo

Wildlife Management INC Uttar Pradesh


Smt. Kanimozhi Gender discrimination in wages

Forest Conservation DMK Tamil Nadu


Shri C.M. Ramesh Conservation of wetlands in Andhra Pradesh


TDP Andhra Pradesh


Dr. Najma A. Heptulla

Rehabilitation of tribals displaced from forest land

Forest Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh


Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani

Non-plan expenditure for Delhi Zoo

Wildlife Management BJP Gujarat


Shri N. Balaganga Death of animals due to unnatural causes

Wildlife Management AIADMK

Tamil Nadu


Shri K.N. Balagopal

Rising pollution in the sea coast

Pollution CPI(M) Kerala


Dr. Chandan Mitra

Modernization of tiger protection mechanism in the country



Shri Prakash Javadekar

Pending proposals of Defence establishments in A&N islands

EIA BJP Maharashtra


Dr. K.V.P. Ramachandra Rao

Impact of brick-soil excavation on soil fertility

Alternative Technologies INC Andhra Pradesh


Forests Dr. K.V.P. Ramachandra Rao

Import of e-waste in the country

Pollution INC Andhra Pradesh


Shri Ajay Sancheti

Environment performance index list

Environmental Conservation BJP Maharashtra


Dr. Prabhakar Kore

Impact of river bed mining on ecology

Environmental Conservation BJP Karnataka

EIA 177 Unstarred 26.02.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Aayanur Manjunatha

Animal deaths in the Wildlife Sanctuaries and Zoos

Wildlife Management BJP Karnataka


Dr. Prabha Thakur Plantation of trees around multistoried buildings

Forest Conservation INC Rajasthan


Dr. Prabhakar Kore

Elephant corridor project at Puspagiri in Karnataka



Shri Ambeth Rajan

Effected climate change on Himalayas

Climate Change and Meteorology

BSP Uttar Pradesh


Shri Pyarimohan Mohapatra

Environmental clearance for Left Bank and Right Bank Canals in Odisha

EIA IND. Odisha


Shri Jai Prakash Narayan Singh

Indiscriminate felling of trees in Delhi

Forest Conservation BJP Jharkhand


Shri Sanjay Raut Reconstitution of body for regualting GM crops

Biosafety SS Maharashtra


Smt. T. Ratna Bai UID numbers for tigers Wildlife Management INC Andhra Pradesh


Shri Ambeth Rajan

Reduction in carbon di oxide emission


BSP Uttar Pradesh

Pollution *117 Starred 05.03.2013 Environment and

Forests Dr. Janardhan Waghmare

Air pollution in the cities Pollution NCP Maharashtra


Shri D.Raja Bio safety Institute to test harmful effect of GM crops

Agriculture CPI Tamil Nadu

Shri M.P.Achuthan

Biosafety CPI Kerala


Smt. Renubala Pradhan

Unnatural deaths of elephants Wildlife Management BJD Odisha

Shri Rama Chandra Khuntia

INC Odisha


Shri Sukhendu Sekhar Roy

Wild animals killed by speedy trains

Wildlife Management AITC West Bengal

Shri Y. S. Chowdary

TDP Andhra Pradesh


Smt. Maya Singh Death due to air pollution in the country

Pollution BJP Madhya Pradesh


Shri D.Bandyopadhyay

Purification of sewage water Freshwater and Marine Conservation

AITC West Bengal


Forests Dr. Prabhakar Kore

Illegal sand mining in Karnataka



Shri Avinash Pande

Failure of Ganga and Yamuna Action Plans


INC Maharashtra


Forests Shri Birender Singh

Measures to check pollution of water bodies


INC Haryana


Forests Dr. T.N.Seema Pollution level in the major

rivers of the country Freshwater and Marine Conservation

CPI(M) Kerala

Health and Sanitation Pollution


Shri K.N.Balagopal

Special schemes for Ashtamudi and Sasthamcottai lakes in Kerala


CPI(M) Kerala


Forests Shri Y. S.Chowdary

Outcome of Doha Climate Change Conference 2012


TDP Andhra Pradesh

Environmental Education, NGOs and Media


Shri Palvai Govardhan Reddy

Coal projects pending for environment clearance

EIA INC Andhra Pradesh

Forest Conservation 788 Unstarred 05.03.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Rama Chandra Khuntia

Impact of shortage of forest officials on monitoring system

Environmental Conservation INC Odisha


Smt. Kanimozhi Damage of crops by industrial effluence

Pollution DMK Tamil Nadu


Shri Mahendra Singh Mahra

Impact of Drynaria Mallis on life saving trees in Himalayan region

Forest Conservation INC Uttarakhand


Shri Vivek Gupta Measures for controlling air pollution

Health and Sanitation AITC West Bengal


Forests Shri G.N.Ratanpuri

Impact of human interference on the environment and ecology of Himalayan region


J&KNC Jammu & Kashmir

Environmental Conservation 793 Unstarred 05.03.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri C.M.Ramesh Assistance to AP under

IDWLH Wildlife Management TDP Andhra Pradesh


Dr. Yogendra P.Trivedi

Sudden death of blackbucks in Rajasthan zoo

Wildlife Management NCP Maharashtra


Dr. Najma A.Heptulla

Kanera irrigation project Agriculture BJP Madhya Pradesh

EIA Water Management Wildlife Management


Shri Aayanur Manjunatha

IT project for connecting wildlife sanctuaries



Shri Natuji Halaji Thakor

Mitigating harmful effects of mining on environment

EIA BJP Gujarat


Forests Shri Bhubaneswar Kalita

Man animal conflict in Guwahati

Wildlife Management INC Assam


Smt. Naznin Faruque

Poaching of Rhinos in Assam Wildlife Management INC Assam


Dr. Pradeep Kumar Balmuchu

Modification in forest clearance norms

Forest Conservation INC Jharkhand



Reducing the forest area in Odisha, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Jharkhand

Forest Conservation INC Odisha


Forests Shri Ali Anwar Ansari

Damage to crops by Nilgais Wildlife Management JD(U) Bihar



Expansion of branches of Pandit Gobind Vallabh Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment


INC Uttarakhand


Dr. Chandan Mitra

One time grant for raising Special Tiger Protection Force



Smt.Kanimozhi Conservation of Hornbill birds

Wildlife Management DMK Tamil Nadu


Shri Vivek Gupta Environment clearance to infrastructure development projects

EIA AITC West Bengal


Shri C.M.Ramesh Loss of forest land in Andhra Pradesh

Forest Conservation TDP Andhra Pradesh


Smt. Maya Singh Destruction of wild life habitats due to mining activities

EIA BJP Madhya Pradesh

Environmental Conservation Wildlife Management *206 Starred 12.03.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Rasheed Masood

Closure of polluting factories in Kanpur

Pollution INC Uttar Pradesh


Smt. Naznin Faruque

Protection of wild life in Assam



Shri V. Hanumantha Rao

Pollution in Yamuna river Pollution INC Andhra Pradesh


Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy

Impact of Global Warming on the Himalayas


BJP Bihar



Shri Parimal Nathwani

New guidelines easing clearance for road projects

EIA IND. Jharkhand

Smt. Gundu Sudharani



Shri Avinash Pande

Environmental clearances for developmental projects

EIA INC Maharashtra


Shri Bharatsinh Prabhatsinh Parmar

Funds for conservation of Asiatic Lions


Shri Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala

BJP Gujarat

Shri Mansukh L. Mandaviya

BJP Gujarat


Smt. T. Ratna Bai Proposal of AP Government for approval of Wildlife Board

Wildlife Management INC Andhra Pradesh

Shri Mohd. Ali Khan

INC Andhra Pradesh


Shri D.Bandyopadhyay

Curb on spread of Lantana Forest Conservation AITC West Bengal

Pollution


Forests Smt. Bimla Kashyap Sood

Ban on plastic packages in Himachal Pradesh

Pollution BJP Himachal Pradesh


Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari

Additional security and budget for wild life sanctuaries

Wildlife Management BJP Uttarakhand


Shri S.Thangavelu Protection of Indian rivers Freshwater and Marine Conservation

DMK Tamil Nadu



De horning of rhinos Wildlife Management INC Assam


Dr. Najma A.Heptulla

Killing of leopard in Assam Wildlife Management BJP Madhya Pradesh


Shri Ambeth Rajan

Quality of Ganga Water Freshwater and Marine Conservation

BSP Uttar Pradesh


Shri N. K. Singh MRV standards of the country


JD(U) Bihar



Water quality of aquatic sources


INC Andhra Pradesh

Water Management 1567 Unstarred 12.03.2013 Environment and


Minimum limit for forest coverage in the country

Forest Conservation BJP Karnataka


Shri Raghunandan Sharma

Assistance under National River Conservation Plan


BJP Madhya Pradesh


Shri Ishwarlal Shankarlal Jain

Disappearance of Yarsagumba herb from hilly and forest sanctuaries

Environmental Conservation NCP Maharashtra


Medicinal Plants 1570 Unstarred 12.03.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri K.N. Balagopal

Environmental clearance to Green Field airport at Aranmula in Kerala

EIA CPI(M) Kerala



Construction of dam on Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh




Shri V. Hanumantha Rao

Environmental clearances to mining of minor minerals and non ferrous minerals



Forests Dr. Vijaylaxmi Sadho

Pollution level in major rivers of Madhya Pradesh


INC Madhya Pradesh


Forests Shri Avinash Pande

Conservation of crocodile and king cobra

Wildlife Management INC Maharashtra



Release of funds deposited under Adhoc CAMPA

Forest Conservation BJP Gujarat


Dr. Prabhakar Kore

Rehabilitation of great Indian Bustard in Ranebennur Black Buck Sanctuary



Shri Rasheed Masood

Disposal of e waste Pollution INC Uttar Pradesh


Smt. Maya Singh E waste management laws Pollution BJP Madhya Pradesh


Shri Mohan Singh Death of wild animals Wildlife Management SP Uttar Pradesh


Shri N.Balaganga Impact of global warming on flora and fauna

Agriculture AIADMK

Tamil Nadu




Actual forest area in the country



Shri C.M. Ramesh Lakes of AP under NLCP Freshwater and Marine Conservation

TDP Andhra Pradesh


Forests Shri C.M. Ramesh Indiscriminate use of Forest

Conservation Act, 1980 Forest Conservation TDP Andhra Pradesh

313 Starred 19.03.2013 Environment and Forests

Shri Dilipbhai Pandya

Green credit Scheme Forest Conservation BJP Gujarat


Dr. T.N. Seema Disposal of effluents by distilleries




Ban on new industries in Maharashtra

EIA NCP Maharashtra

Shri Anil Desai SS Maharashtra 2328 Unstarred 19.03.2013 Environment and

Forests Smt. T.Ratna Bai Reduction of contours of

Kolleru lake in Andhra Pradesh


INC Andhra Pradesh

Shri Mohd. Ali Khan




Counting of birds and animals

Wildlife Management INC Odisha


Shri Kumar Deepak Das

Relocation of the settlement areas in National Parks in Assam

Wildlife Management AGP Assam


Shri G. N. Ratanpuri

Conservation of endangered species of plants and animals in J and K

Wildlife Management J&KNC Jammu & Kashmir


Smt. Naznin Faruque

Allocation and utilisation of funds in Assam


INC Assam

Forest Conservation Wildlife Management



Destruction of forests due to soil erosion



Forests Shri A.A.Jinnah Closure of industrial units by

CPCB Pollution DMK Tamil Nadu


Shri Darshan Singh Yadav

Petrochemical plant in Uttar Pradesh

Pollution SP Uttar Pradesh



Erosion of sea shores in the country




Monitoring of highly polluted industries by CPCB

Pollution BJP Uttarakhand


Shri Shanta Kumar

Most polluted cities in the country

Pollution BJP Himachal Pradesh



Environment clearance to construction of a new dam in Maharashtra

EIA NCP Maharashtra


Dr. Yogendra P. Trivedi

Human losses due to wild animals



Shri Kiranmay Nanda

Implementation of NLCP in U.P.


SP Uttar Pradesh


Shri Basawaraj Patil

Environmental problem on river and river bed

EIA BJP Karnataka



Field trial of GM plants in the country

Agriculture CPI(M) Kerala

Biosafety 2344 Unstarred 19.03.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Dilipbhai Pandya

Relaxation in environmental clearance for projects requiring forest land

EIA BJP Gujarat



Detection of poachers in National Park




Green India scheme Climate Change and Meteorology

INC Uttarakhand


Forests Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari

Identification of animal species on verge of extinction

Wildlife Management BJP Uttarakhand


Shri C.M. Ramesh Tourism activities in core areas of Tiger Reserves


TDP Andhra Pradesh


Forests Shri Raghunandan Sharma

Schemes under Forest Conservation Act for Madhya Pradesh




Exploitation of forests in hilly areas


BJP Karnataka

EIA Forest Conservation Wildlife Management *412 Starred 23.04.2013 Environment and


Environmental Impact Assessment at Aramula in Kerala

EIA CPI(M) Kerala


Shri S. Thangavelu

Uploading of information relating to grant of environment clearances

EIA DMK Tamil Nadu


Shri D. Bandyopadhyay

Environmental clearance to sea port at Vizhnijam



Shri Anil Madhav Dave

Poaching of leopards Wildlife Management BJP Madhya Pradesh


Shri S. Thangavelu

Flow of untreated sweage into water bodies

Agriculture DMK Tamil Nadu


Pollution Water Management


Smt. Maya Singh Impact of mobile towers on birds




Environmental clearance of mines in Odisha

EIA INC Odisha


Shri N. K. Singh Access and benefit sharing arrangements under Bio diversity Act, 2012

Environmental Conservation JD(U) Bihar

Dr. Janardhan Waghmare

NCP Maharashtra


Rupala, Shri Parshottam Khodabhai

Funds allocated for Mindhola river in Gujarat under NRCP


BJP Gujarat

Mandaviya, Shri Mansukh L.

Pollution BJP Gujarat


Smt. Maya Singh Action plan for industrial clusters scoring high in CEPI



Shri Prabhat Jha Blanket ban on plastic in the country


Shri Arvind Kumar Singh

SP Uttar Pradesh

Smt. Kusum Rai BJP Uttar Pradesh Shri Alok Tiwari SP Uttar Pradesh


Shri G.N. Ratanpuri

Impact of unregulated excavation of sand and muck from rivers in Jammu and Kashmir


J&KNC Jammu & Kashmir



Conservation of ancient and traditional medicinal plants

Medicinal Plants BJP Madhya Pradesh


Dr. T.N. Seema Functional distilleries in the country



Shri Baishnab Parida

Noise pollution in Delhi Pollution BJD Odisha


Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot

Measures to tackle e waste generated in the country

Health and Sanitation BJP Madhya Pradesh


Forests Shri S. Thangavelu

Installation of surveillance system in National Parks to check poaching

EIA DMK Tamil Nadu


Shri Vijay Jawaharlal Darda

Environment clearance for highway projects



Shri T.M. Selvaganapathi

Critical level of PM10 in Indian cities




Fishing inside the wild life sanctuary




Pollution control norms for industries in Rajasthan

Pollution BJP Rajasthan



National Action Plan on Climate Change


DMK Tamil Nadu


Shri Hishey Lachungpa

Global warming Climate Change and Meteorology

SDF Sikkim


Shri B.S. Gnanadesikan

Field trial of transgenic crops Agriculture INC Tamil Nadu


Forests Shri Joy Abraham Recommendations of

Western Ghat Ecology Expert Panel

Alternative Technologies KC(M) Kerala

Energy Studies Environmental Conservation


Shri Vivek Gupta Environment clearance to mining projects



Smt. Naznin Faruque

Protection of forests in Assam

Forest Conservation INC Assam


Forests Shri Birendra Prasad Baishya

Killing of tigers in the country



Shri Kumar Deepak Das

Pollution in Bharalu river in Guwahati


AGP Assam


Forests Shri N. Balaganga Impact of global warming in

the country Climate Change and Meteorology

AIADMK

Tamil Nadu


Shri Om Prakash Mathur

Pollution by highly polluting industries in the country

Agriculture BJP Rajasthan



Farm Forest scheme Agriculture BJP Karnataka


Forests Shri Devender Goud T.

Pending power projects for environment clearance

Energy Studies TDP Andhra Pradesh


Forests Shri Hishey Lachungpa

Development of zoological parks

Wildlife Management SDF Sikkim


Dr. Gyan Prakash Pilania

Wide scale pollution of rivers in the country


BJP Rajasthan



Tiger population in forests Wildlife Management INC Odisha


Dr. V. Maitreyan World Bank assistance for pollution free environemnt

Pollution AIADMK

Tamil Nadu



Pollution in States EIA INC Odisha


Forests Shri A.A. Jinnah EIA Notification of 2006 EIA DMK Tamil Nadu


Shri Ram Jethmalani

Enactment of Forest Right Act

Forest Conservation BJP Rajasthan


Dr. K.P. Ramalingam

Threat to wild life from poachers



Shri N. Balaganga Pollution by diesel vehicles Pollution AIADMK

Tamil Nadu



Forest development and afforestation projects



Dr. K.P. Ramalingam

Conservation of wildlife in the country



Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani

Diversion of land in Kutch Desert Sanctuary in Gujarat





BJP Gujarat


Dr. Bharatkumar Raut

Diversion of Zudpi forest land for International airport

EIA SS Maharashtra


Forests Shri Motilal Vora Increased pollution level in

Delhi Pollution INC Chhattisgarh


Shri P. Bhattacharya

Change in flow of Ganges due to soil erosion


INC West Bengal


Forests Dr. V.Maitreyan Environmental clearance for

malls and multi storeyed buildings in Tamil Nadu

EIA AIADMK

Tamil Nadu


Shri Mohammed Adeeb

Lack of facilities for disposal of wastes in Delhi Hospitals

Health and Sanitation IND. Uttar Pradesh



Menace caused by straying tigers



Shri Raghunandan Sharma

National plan for climate change


BJP Madhya Pradesh


Smt. Maya Singh Increased level of SPM in Delhi and other metropolitan cities




Harmonising eco tourism and non forest activity


INC Andhra Pradesh


Forests Shri Mansukh L. Mandaviya

Rising sea level in coastal areas of Gujarat


BJP Gujarat


BJP Gujarat



Rise in death of leopards Wildlife Management INC Maharashtra


Shri Vivek Gupta Pollution in different States Pollution AITC West Bengal

3741 Unstarred 30.04.2013 Environment and Dr. Ram Prakash Flow of fresh water in Freshwater and Marine INC Haryana

Forests Yamuna Conservation Water Management *564 Starred 07.05.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Kumar Deepak Das

Protection and conservation of wild life in Assam



Smt. Vasanthi Stanley

Conservation of ESA Zones Environmental Conservation DMK Tamil Nadu



Study on impact on un predictable climatic change

Agriculture BJP Gujarat





Environmental clearance for the Kalu Dam in Thane district




Development of Yamuna river bank as eco friendly site


INC Jharkhand



Comprehensive river basin management plan for Ganga


INC Odisha



Target for increasing forest over




Review of the National Action Plan on Climate Change

Alternative Technologies BJP Bihar



Shri Piyush Goyal Guidelines for high rise buildings in Maharashtra

EIA BJP Maharashtra


Shri Ashk Ali Tak Ban on polythene bags Pollution INC Rajasthan


Shri Dhiraj Prasad Sahu

Ganga Action Plan Phase II Freshwater and Marine Conservation

INC Jharkhand



Impact of non biodegradable pesticides on environment

Agriculture TDP Andhra Pradesh

Environmental Conservation



Shri K.N. Balagopal

Report of Kasturi Rangan Committee on Western Ghats

Environmental Conservation CPI(M) Kerala


Shri Nand Kumar Sai

Meeting of Environment Ministers of BRICS countries


BJP Chhattisgarh



Shri Bhubaneswar Kalita

Killing of Rhinoes in Kaziranga National Park




Illegal trade of leopard body parts


INC Maharashtra


Forests Shri A.V. Swamy Privileges of tribals under

Forest Rights Act Forest Conservation IND. Odisha


Forests Shri B.S. Gnanadesikan

Generic Engineering Appraisal Committee

Agriculture INC Tamil Nadu


Forests Shri Motilal Vora Generation of plastic waste Health and Sanitation INC Chhattisgarh


Forests Shri Vivek Gupta UID number to Bengal

Tigers Wildlife Management AITC West Bengal



Disposal of treated effluents by distilleries

Pollution INC Odisha


Shri Kaptan Singh Solanki

Discharge of sewage in Ganga river in Uttar Pradesh


BJP Madhya Pradesh


Forests Shri P.Rajeeve Exemption of CRZ Rules in

Cochin Environmental Conservation CPI(M) Kerala



Dr. Ram Prakash Measures for controlling discharge of industrial waste in River Ganga


INC Haryana

Pollution 4357 Unstarred 07.05.2013 Environment and Dr. Pradeep Encroachment of forest land Forest Conservation INC Jharkhand

Forests Kumar Balmuchu 4358 Unstarred 07.05.2013 Environment and

Forests Smt. Vasanthi Stanley

Awards for protection of forests


DMK Tamil Nadu


Forests Dr. Chandan Mitra

Constitution of Forest Advisory Committee



Dr. Yogendra P.Trivedi

Lifting of ban on industries in Konkan region

Environmental Conservation NCP Maharashtra


Forests Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar

Cleaning of polluted rivers in Karnataka


IND. Karnataka



Conviction rate of wildlife cases in Assam




Commercial activities around Jim Corbett National Park

Wildlife Management INC Uttarakhand


Shri Piyush Goyal Pollution controlling systems in power plants

Energy Studies BJP Maharashtra



Forest cover in India Forest Conservation INC Odisha


Dr. Prabha Thakur Safety of roads and bridges Environmental Conservation INC Rajasthan

Health and Sanitation Water Management *65 Starred 08.08.2013 Environment and

Forests Smt. Maya Singh Monitoring of glaciers in hill

States Environmental Education, NGOs and Media

BJP Madhya Pradesh


Shri Ashk Ali Tak Forest land area in Rajasthan Forest Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh


Shri Husain Dalwai

Guidelines on tiger conservation

Wildlife Management INC Rajasthan


Shri Ajay Sancheti

Hottest hotspots of biological diversity



Forests Shri Avinash Pande

Tiger reserve project adjoining Kaziranga National Park


474 Unstarred 08.08.2013 Environment and Shri Rama Implementation of Climate Change and INC Odisha

Forests Chandra Khuntia Copenhagen and Rio Declarations

Meteorology



Environmental protection and afforestation in Gujarat

Environmental Conservation BJP Gujarat



Decline in tiger population Wildlife Management INC Odisha


Shri Parimal Nathwani

Plan to deal with climate change


IND. Jharkhand


Shri Nandi Yellaiah

Formation of 5.60 km road from Dindi PWD to Keshrajpally



Shri K.C. Tyagi Survey to identify the endangered animal species

Wildlife Management JD(U) Bihar


Shri Alok Tiwari Measures taken to save ecology and lives of people

Environmental Conservation SP Uttar Pradesh


EIA SP Uttar Pradesh

Shri Prabhat Jha Freshwater and Marine Conservation

BJP Madhya Pradesh

Smt. Kusum Rai BJP Uttar Pradesh 481 Unstarred 08.08.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Natuji Halaji Thakor

Clearance issuance mechanism in new CRZ Notification

EIA BJP Gujarat


Shri Tarun Vijay Road construction proposals awaiting clearance


BJP Uttarakhand

Disaster Management EIA



Guidelines for development in hilly areas

EIA AITC Jharkhand



Special programme for recovery of critically endangered species



Shri Rajkumar Dhoot

Pollution level of the National Capital

Pollution SS Maharashtra



Projects relating to State Forest Development Agency




Demand of NTFPs Environment and Forest Trade

BJP Bihar

Medicinal Plants


Shri Mohd. Ali Khan

Bio-diversity awareness Environmental Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh

Smt. T. Ratna Bai INC Andhra Pradesh



Identification of Forest Medicinal Plants

Forest Conservation NCP Maharashtra

Medicinal Plants 490 Unstarred 08.08.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri C.M. Ramesh Funds allocated and spent in

Andhra Pradesh Environmental Conservation TDP Andhra

Pradesh Pollution Wildlife Management



Projects cleared by Forest Advisory Committee

Forest Conservation DMK Tamil Nadu



Pending projects for forest clearances

EIA INC Jharkhand


Forests Dr. Pradeep Kumar Balmuchu

Forest encroachment across the country

Forest Conservation INC Jharkhand


Shri Nand Kumar Sai

Protection and conservation of wild animals

Wildlife Management BJP Chhattisgarh



Diversion of forest land for mining



Smt. Jaya Bachchan

Tigress T17 of Ranthambhore

Wildlife Management SP Uttar Pradesh


Shri N. Balaganga Death of wild animals in protected areas


Tamil Nadu


Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad

Increase in temperature at global level


BJP Bihar


Dr. Bhalchandra Mungekar

Number of tigers in country Wildlife Management INC Nominated


Shri D.P. Tripathi Reasons for the death of Royal Bengal Tigers



Smt. Wansuk Syiem

Criteria for clearance of projects

EIA INC Meghalaya


Smt. Maya Singh Dam construction projects Alternative Technologies BJP Madhya Pradesh

Energy Studies 503 Unstarred 08.08.2013 Environment and

Forests Shri Sanjay Raut Study to ascertain the reasons

for damage in Uttarakhand Disaster Management SS Maharashtra


Smt. T. Ratna Bai Pending development projects of International Airports


Shri Mohd. Ali Khan

INC Andhra Pradesh


Smt. T. Ratna Bai Steps taken to make Yamuna river pollution free


INC Andhra Pradesh

Shri Mohd. Ali Khan



Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda

Reasons for delay in refunding deposited amount in CAMPA funds

Forest Conservation BJP Himachal Pradesh



Categories for emission norms


BJP Madhya Pradesh



Afforestation projects Forest Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh


Shri N. Balaganga Funds for climate change related issues


AIADMK

Tamil Nadu



Impact of relaxations on environmental clearance

EIA BJP Gujarat


Forests Smt. Maya Singh Vehicle pollution checking

centres Pollution BJP Madhya

Pradesh 1406 Unstarred 22.08.2013 Environment and

Forests Dr. T.N. Seema Survey on environmental

situations Climate Change and Meteorology

CPI(M) Kerala

Disaster Management Environmental Conservation



Illegal construction inside the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary




Hunting/killing of wild animals and birds

Forest Conservation NCP Maharashtra

Wildlife Management


Shri Ambeth Rajan

Environmental approval to any project

EIA BSP Uttar Pradesh


Forests Shri Prabhat Jha Sand mining in Uttar Pradesh EIA BJP Madhya

Pradesh Environmental Conservation


Shri Ishwar Singh Maintenance of River Ganga Freshwater and Marine Conservation

INC Haryana


Forests Shri Ishwar Singh Worsening quality of air in

metro cities Environmental Education, NGOs and Media

INC Haryana



Prevention of tourist activities in tiger projects areas



Dr. Chandan Mitra

Elephants mowed down by trains



Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar

Uncontrolled development in Himalayan region

EIA IND. Karnataka


Forests Shri Birendra Prasad Baishya

Protection and conservation of wild animals



Shri Anil Desai Proposal for Sapali Dam EIA SS Maharashtra



Power of environment clearance

EIA BJP Gujarat



Constitution of Special Tiger Protection Force



Shri Naresh Gujral

Pollution of Yamuna key barrages


SAD Punjab


Forests Shri V.P. Singh Badnore

Project tigers in Naxal affected areas



Shri Motilal Vora Disposal of waste in Yamuna river


INC Chhattisgarh

Pollution 1423 Unstarred 22.08.2013 Environment and Shri Ram Water pollution by Okhla Freshwater and Marine BJP Rajasthan

Forests Jethmalani Sewage Treatment Plant Conservation Pollution


Dr. K.P. Ramalingam

Need to increase in staff strength in SPCB




Increasing pollution responsible for high child mortality


BJP Madhya Pradesh



Shri P. Bhattacharya

Meeting of National River Conservation Authority


INC West Bengal


BJP Madhya Pradesh

Shri K.C. Tyagi JD(U) Bihar


Shri Alok Tiwari Clearance to field trials for genetically modified plants

Agriculture SP Uttar Pradesh

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Kumar Singh SP Uttar Pradesh


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Policy for checking constructions near rivers and nullahs


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Killing of animals by human beings



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Decision regarding reducing of carbon emission


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Stop order of construction of Polavaram




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Clearance issuance mechanism in new CRZ Notification

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Environmental Clearance for Airport at Aranmulla

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Problems due to Polavaram Project



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NGOs and Media




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Environmental clearance in Jammu and Kashmir

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Projects of power sector pending for clearance


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Forests Shri D.P. Tripathi Survey on environmental

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Action to protect green cover in Delhi

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Action plan to control waste of hotels

Energy Studies BJD Odisha

Environmental Conservation Pollution Water Management



Daman-Ganga river under NCRP


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Expenditure on cleaning of coasts


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Environmental clearance for Shree Singaji Thermal Power Project

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Pradesh Pollution


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Tamil Nadu



Goals of SDG Environmental Conservation INC Odisha


Shri Husain Dalwai

Management of environment and forest resources

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Indiscriminate felling of trees for infrastructural projects




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Steps taken to protect ocean and marine eco system



*104 Starred 12.12.2013 Environment and Shri C.P. Approaches to protection of Environmental Conservation CPI(M) Kerala

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INC Meghalaya



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Amount deposited by Gujarat Government in CAMPA



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Projects undertaken by Yamuna Action Plan


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JD(U) Bihar


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Shri K.N. Balagopal

Illegal island resorts built in Vembanadu lake

EIA CPI(M) Kerala



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Reasons for not converting a small forest land to Panchayat land

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Funds earmarked to reduce the pollution


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Mining activities in CRZ areas

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Project for CRZ clearance Environmental Conservation BJP Gujarat

EIA Pollution


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Steps taken to reduce noise pollution

Pollution SAD Punjab


Shri Ajay Sancheti

Environmental concerns into planning and development activities



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Land covered under environment conservation

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Forests Shri Sanjay Raut Plan to improve the quality

of forests Climate Change and Meteorology

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chemicals/acids in rivers Freshwater and Marine Conservation

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Scheme to make rivers pollution free


DMK Tamil Nadu


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CAMPA amount lying in nationalized banks

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Dr. Vijay Mallya Clearance for laying the Hubli-Ankola rail line

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Shri Rajkumar Dhoot

Hearing problems caused due to noise pollution




Constitution of Committee to find out the safety of Bt. Brinjal

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Forests Shri Shivanand Tiwari

Villages around Ranthambore National Park

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Shri Naresh Gujral

Status of Yamuna Action Plan


SAD Punjab


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Action plan for pending projects

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Review of Government Order on insisting fresh forest clearances

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K Tamil Nadu


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Tamil Nadu



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CAMPA funds released and balance lying with Government

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Mining approval in Uttarakhand

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Setting up of environment regulator

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Details of drains discharged in Yamuna river


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Air pollution in rural areas Environmental Education, NGOs and Media

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Protection of reserves and forests in Assam



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Environmental clearance to Posco Steel Plant Project

EIA CPI Kerala



Satellite Management Report Environmental Education, NGOs and Media

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Conservation of musk deers Wildlife Management INC Uttarakhand



Air and water quality in six metros


BJD Odisha


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New panel to study Western Ghats



Shri Parvez Hashmi

Pollution in Ganga Freshwater and Marine Conservation

INC Delhi



Funds for promotion of forests in the States




Use of forest land by Government of Uttarakhand




Supply of polluted water to houses

Pollution BJD Odisha



Uniform policy for immersion of idols in rivers


BJP Madhya Pradesh



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Forests Smt. Kusum Rai Illegal cutting of trees Forest Conservation BJP Uttar Pradesh



SP Uttar Pradesh


Shri Avinash Rai Khanna

Steps taken to keep environment clean

Environmental Conservation BJP Punjab



Dr. Bharatkumar Raut

Proposal for diversion of Zudpi jungle

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Dr. Chandan Mitra

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Environmental clearance for new airports

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Tamil Nadu


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Water pollution in Yamuna river


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Objectives of formation of green tribunal




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Gram Sabha's clearance for diversion of forest land

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BJP Gujarat


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Representations by State Governments on CRZ notifications

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New Forest Conservation Rules



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Policy on GM Crops Agriculture CPI(M) Kerala


Forests Shri Palvai Govardhan Reddy

GM food crops under pipeline

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Biosafety

CABINET COMMITTEE ON INVESTMENT 26th February, 2013 RSQ *26 DR. KANWAR DEEP SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has approved the constitution of the Cabinet Committee on Investment; (b) if so, the role of the Ministry under the said Committee; (c) Whether the time bound decisions expected from the Committee may hinder the process of adequate environmental consultations and assessments; and (d) if not, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) : A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 26 REGARDING CABINET COMMITTEE ON INVESTMENT ASKED BY DR. KANWAR DEEP SINGH DUE FOR ANSWER ON 26.02.2013.

(a) Yes, Sir. (b) Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment & Forests is one of the Special Invitees to the Cabinet Committee on Investment. (c) No, Sir. (d) There are already prescribed timelines for processing the cases for different clearances dealt with by

the Ministry of Environment & Forests viz., Environment Clearance, Forest Clearance and Wildlife Clearance. The cases are dealt with by the Ministry of Environment & Forests as per prescribed procedure while ensuring that there is no compromise on the quality of appraisal or the integrity of environment.

SHIFTING OF TIGERS FROM RANTHAMBORE TIGER RESERVE TO SARISKA NATIONAL PARK 26th February, 2013 RSQ *33 SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of tigers along with their gender which have been shifted to the Sariska National Park from the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve of Rajasthan;

(b) the details thereof;

(c) the number of tigers in the Sariska National Park as on date and whether they are under constant monitoring; and

(d) whether any signs of increase in the population of those tigers have been observed? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b), (c) & (d) :- A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b), (c) & (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *33 ON SHIFTING OF TIGERS FROM RANTHAMBORE TIGER RESERVE TO SARISKA NATIONAL PARK DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.02.2013. (a) Based on recommendations of the Wildlife Institute of India and a recovery plan of the State Government, 2 tigers and 5 tigresses have been translocated to Sariska Tiger Reserve, from the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan, besides one tiger from Bharatpur. (b) The details of tiger translocation from Ranthambhore to Sariska Tiger Reserve are at Annexure-I. (c) & (d) At present, there are 7 adult tigers and 2 cubs which are being monitored using radio telemetry by the frontline staff and a technical team from the Wildlife Institute of India.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *33 ON SHIFTING OF TIGERS FROM RANTHAMBORE TIGER RESERVE TO SARISKA NATIONAL PARK DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.02.2013. Details of tiger translocated / reintroduced in the Sariska Tiger Reserve (As reported by the State)

S. No. Tiger ID Gender Date of reintroduction

Place from shifted

1. ST-1 Male 28.06.2008 Ranthambhore 2. ST-2 Female 04.07.2008 Ranthambhore 3. ST-3 Female 25.02.2009 Ranthambhore 4. ST-4 Male 20.07.2010 Ranthambhore 5. ST-5 Female 28.07.2010 Ranthambhore 6. ST-6 Male 23.02.2011 Bharatpur* 7. ST-9 Female 22.01.2013 Ranthambhore 8. ST-10 Female 23.01.2013 Ranthambhore

*Tiger ST-6 had moved on its own to the Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur from the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, and was later translocated to Sariska. DAMAGE TO CROPS DUE TO POLLUTION BY POWER PLANTS 26th February, 2013 RSQ *35 SHRI MOTILAL VORA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that ash contents emitting from Koradi and Khaperkheda Thermal Power Plants situated at Nagpur in Maharashtra are spreading along with air in a very large area thus damaging crops and causing diseases for the last three years;

(b) whether people had lodged a complaint in the police station against the company operating these power plants;

(c) whether above said company had announced to pay compensation to affected farmers three years ago which has not materialized till date; and

(d) if so, the steps being taken by Government to protect local people from pollution and to ensure the payment of compensation?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d): A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 35 DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.02.2013 RAISED BY SHRI MOTILAL VORA REGARDING ‘DAMAGE TO CROPS DUE TO POLLUTION BY POWER PLANTS’. (a) The emission standards for coal fed thermal power (CFTP) plants have been notified by the Central Government under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 which are enforced by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) in the State of Maharashtra. Both the CFTP plants located at Koradi and Khaparkheda are not complying with emission standards as reported by MPCB. These power plants are owned by Maharashtra Power Generation Company Limited (MPGCL). MPCB has further reported that a fact finding team comprising officials from Koradi Thermal Power Station, local Revenue and Agriculture Departments has assessed the damage to the crops and a report was prepared in December, 2010. However, no assessment report is available on diseases alleged to be caused due to emission from these power plants. (b) A complaint under the banner of Kishan Manch, NOIDA (Uttar Pradesh) has reportedly been lodged with the local police against both the power plants on 20th January, 2013. (c) MPGCL has reportedly not announced any compensation to be paid to farmers in the matter. But it is understood that Koradi Thermal Power Station has referred the issue of payment of compensation to farmers to its head quarter, in March 2011. (d) Assessment of crop damage has been made by the departments of Government of Maharashtra as well as payment of compensation, if any, is to be paid by Maharashtra State Power Generation Corporation Limited. Several steps have been taken to control air pollution at these two power stations, which inter-alia includes:

i. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board has issued directions in July, 2011 to both the power plants to control air pollution at source.

ii. Four out of seven power generation units at Koradi Thermal Power Station have been closed down permanently by MPGCL in January, 2011.

iii. Both the power plants have submitted action plan to MPCB for control of air pollution at source. Implementation of said action plan is under progress, as reported.

REDUCTION OF INDUSTRIAL AREAS AROUND NATIONAL SANCTUARIES 26th February, 2013 RSQ 156 SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR:

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

(a) whether Government has received any proposal to reduce industrial areas around National Sanctuaries throughout the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the steps being taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)&(b) No, Sir. (c) Does not arise. AIR POLLUTION IN MAJOR CITIES 26th February, 2013 RSQ 157 DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the average trend of air pollution level recorded in the major cities of the country during the last three years;

(b) whether the pollution has been within the permissible limits; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether Government has conducted any study to ascertain the various diseases caused by air pollution; (e) if so, the outcome of the said study; and (f) the corrective action taken by Government to contain air pollution and prevention of diseases caused

thereby? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) The ambient air quality is monitored with respect to PM10 (particulate matter having size less then 10 micron), Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrogen Dioxide across the country including four major cities, namely, Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi and Chennai. The level of Sulphur Dioxide (annual average norms- 50 mg/m3 ) are complied with in all four major cities whereas, exceeded for Nitrogen Dioxide (annual average norms -40 mg/m3) in Delhi and Kolkata. Levels of PM10 are exceeded in all four major cities. A fluctuating or, mixed trend is being observed with respect to PM10 and Nitrogen Dioxide is an upcoming parameters. (d) Two epidemiological studies have been undertaken by CPCB through Chitaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, namely, ‘Epidemiological Study on Effect of Air Pollution on Human Health (adults) in Delhi’; and ‘Study on Ambient Air Quality, Respiratory Symptoms and Lung Function of Children in Delhi’. Another study was awarded by the Ministry of Environment and Forests to Institute of Health Systems, Hyderabad namely, ‘Environmental Health effect-cause of Death in Hyderabad’. (e) Summary of findings of above mentioned three studies is that because of the limitation in the assessment of the exposure and outcome variables, the findings should be regarded as preliminary observations. (f) The steps taken to control air pollution during last three years at the national level, inter alia, include notifying revised ambient air quality standards (November, 2009); identifying 43 critically polluted areas (December, 2009)

after a comprehensive study; notifying strict emission standards for 14 categories of industries, such as integrated iron & steel plant, electroplating industry, grain processing industry, plaster of paris industry, incinerators, etc; increasing the use of gaseous fuel for public transport; strengthening public transport and metro rail in select cities; low floor bused as intra city public transport in some cities; sale & registration of BS-IV complaint passenger cars in select cities; sale and supply of BS IV/III compliant fuel as per Auto Fuel Policy, etc POLLUTION LEVEL IN YAMUNA RIVER 26th February, 2013 RSQ 158 SHRI Y.S. CHOWDARY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the quantum of fund earmarked by the Ministry to reduce the pollution in Yamuna during the last three years;

(b) the details of amount spent during last three years; (c) whether the Government is satisfied with the result achieved, so far; and (d) If not, the steps taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The details of funds released by this Ministry during the last three years for conservation of river Yamuna under the Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) are as under:

Year Funds Released (Rs. crore)

Expenditure including State share (Rs. crore)

2009-2010 105.00 170.91 2010-2011 111.49 198.64 2011-2012 47.06 125.18

c) & (d) Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna by providing financial assistance to Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) in a phased manner since 1993. The works taken up under the YAP relate to sewerage/interception and diversion of drains, sewage treatment plants (STPs), low cost sanitation/community toilet complexes, electric/improved wood crematoria, etc. Under Phase-I and II of YAP, 40 sewage treatment plants with a total capacity of 902.25 million litres per day, have been completed in 21 towns of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi. The water quality of river Yamuna has not shown the desired improvement owing to a large gap between the demand and availability of sewage treatment capacity and lack of fresh water in the river .Further, the YAP Phase - III project for Delhi has been approved by the Ministry in December, 2011 at an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore. Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry in July, 2012 at an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana. In addition, State Governments, apart from their own budgetary allocations, are also accessing financial assistance for creation of sewerage infrastructure, including setting up of sewage treatment plants, in various towns under other Central sector schemes like JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) and UIDSSMT (Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) of Ministry of Urban Development.

DECLINE IN FOREST COVER IN INDIA 26th February, 2013 RSQ 159 SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has studied the 2011 Report of the Dehradun –based Forest Survey of India; (b) if so, whether any reasons have been given for continued shrinkage of forest cover over the years; (c) whether the tribals and other locals inhabiting in forest areas also contributed to this shrinkage; (d) whether organized wood smuggling with the nexus of forest officials and wood mafia has been

substantially responsible for this menace; and (e) if so, the steps taken in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. As per India State of Forest Report 2011, 14 States / UTs have shown a decrease in forest cover to the extent of 867 square kilometers. 15 States/UTs have registered an aggregate increase of 500 square kilometers. Effectively there is a net decline of forest cover to the tune of 367 square kilometers. The names of States/UT showing decline in forest cover along with the reasons for decline is given in Annexure I. (c) As per India State of Forest Report-2011, there has been a net decline of 679 square kilometers in the forest cover of the tribal districts of the country. Decline in North East region of the country could mainly be attributed to the socio-cultural practice of jhum cultivation by tribal communities inhabiting the area. (d) Field verifications of change polygons as reported in India State of Forest Report-2011, do not suggest any large scale decline in forest cover due to organized crime. Further, the Ministry has also not received any information about organized wood smuggling. However, there are sporadic incidents of illegal tree felling in forest areas of the country mostly for the purpose of small timber and fuel wood etc. (e) The following initiatives have been taken by the Government to expand forest and tree cover in the country:

(i). The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for regeneration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in the country. The Scheme is implemented through a decentralized mechanism of State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) at State level, Forest Development Agency (FDA) at Forest Division level and Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at Village levels. As on 31-03.2012, 800 FDA projects have been approved in 28 States in the country to treat an area of 18.86 lakh hectares since inception of the Scheme in 2002.

(ii). The Ministry releases funds under the Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IFMS), for strengthening of forest protection such as infrastructure, fire protection, demarcation of forest boundaries, construction of facilities for frontline staff and communication etc.

(iii). Under the National Action Plan on Climate Change announced by the Central Government, a National Mission for ‘A Green India’ has been mooted. One of the main objective is qualitative improvement of forest cover/ ecosystems and creating new forest cover through eco-restoration/ afforestation.

(iv). Under the award of 13th Finance Commission, a grant of Rs.5000 crores has been allocated as “Forest Grants” to the States/UTs on the basis of their forest cover in the State in relation to the national average.

(v). Afforestation activities are also undertaken under various Externally Aided Projects.

Annexure I Annexure referred to in reply to part (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 159 due for answer on 26-02-2013 regarding ‘Decline in forest cover in India’

States / UTs showing decline in forest cover as per India State of Forest Report 2011 S.No States Decline in

forest area (in sq. km)

Reasons for decline

1 Andhra Pradesh 281 Management interventions like harvesting of short rotation crops followed by new regeneration / plantations, forest clearance in some encroached areas.

2. Manipur 190 Decrease in forest cover in the State is due to shortening of shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure.

3. Nagaland 146 Decrease in forest cover in the State is due to shortening of shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure.

4. Arunachal Pradesh 74 Change in forest cover in the state is because of shifting cultivation and biotic pressure.

5. Mizoram 66 Decrease in forest cover in the State is due to shortening of shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure.

6. Meghalaya 46 Decrease in forest cover in the State is due to shortening of shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure.

7. Kerala 24 Decrease in forest cover in the state is due to rotational felling of Eucalyptus, Teak, Acacia mangium, rubber and shade bearing trees in the gardens.

8. Assam 19 Decrease in forest cover is mainly attributed to illicit felling, encroachments in insurgency affected areas and shifting cultivation practices.

9. Tripura 8 Decrease in forest cover in the state is due to clearings for rubber plantations and shifting cultivations practices.

10. Maharashtra 4 - 11. Chhattisgarh 4 Submergence of forest areas in catchments of the dams. 12. Uttar Pradesh 3 - 13. Gujarat 1 Decrease in forest cover in the state is due to private

felling in the Tree Outside Forests areas. 14. Chandigarh 0.22 -

Total 866.22 RE-LOCATION OF PEOPLE FROM BUFFER ZONES AROUND NATIONAL PARKS 26th February, 2013 RSQ 160 SHRI FAGGAN SINGH KULASTE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether buffer zones have been established around national parks and tiger reserves in the country; (b) if so, the number of such buffer zones established in the country so far; (c) whether it is a fact that relocation of people from villages situated inside these buffer zones has been

planned; (d) whether Government has considered the aspect of rehabilitation and compensation for the people

residing there; and (e) the details of amount of compensation earmarked for present, buffer zone-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) & (b) Yes Sir. Buffer areas have been notified by State Governments for all 41 tiger reserves in the country. The details are at Annexure-I. (c) No Sir. (d) Question does not arise. (e) Question does not arise.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 160 ON RE-LOCATION OF PEOPLE FROM BUFFER ZONES AROUND NATIONAL PARKS DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.02.2013. List of Buffer areas of Tiger Reserves in India, notified under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006

Sl. No. Name of Tiger Reserve State Area of the buffer / peripheral(In Sq. Kms.)

1 Bandipur Karnataka 584.06 2 Corbett Uttarakhand 466.32 3 Kanha Madhya Pradesh 1134.361 4 Manas Assam 2310.88 5 Melghat Maharashtra 1268.03 6 Palamau Jharkhand 715.85 7 Ranthambore Rajasthan 297.9265 8 Similipal Odisha 1555.25 9 Sunderbans West Bengal 885.27 10 Periyar Kerala 44.00 11 Sariska Rajasthan 332.23 12 Buxa West Bengal 367.3225 13 Indravati Chhattisgarh 1540.70 14 Nagarjunsagar Andhra Pradesh 1175.51 15 Namdapha Arunachal Pradesh 245.00 16 Dudhwa Uttar Pradesh 1107.9848 17 Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tamil Nadu 706.542 18 Valmiki Bihar 300.93 19 Pench Madhya Pradesh 768.30225 20 Tadoba-Andhari Maharashtra 1101.7711 21 Bandhavgarh Madhya Pradesh 820.03509 22 Panna Madhya Pradesh 1002.42 23 Dampa Mizoram 488.00 24 Bhadra Karnataka 571.83 25 Pench Maharashtra 483.96 26 Pakke Arunachal Pradesh 515.00 27 Nameri Assam 144.00 28 Satpura Madhya Pradesh 794.04397 29 Anamalai Tamil Nadu 521.28 30 Udanti-Sitanadi Chattisgarh 991.45 31 Satkosia Odisha 440.26 32 Kaziranga Assam 548.00 33 Achanakmar Chattisgarh 287.822

34 Dandeli-Anshi Karnataka 282.63 35 Sanjay Dubri Madhya Pradesh 861.931 36 Mudumalai Tamil Nadu 367.59 37 Nagarahole Karnataka 562.41 38 Parambikulam Kerala 252.772 39 Sahyadri Maharashtra 565.45 40 Biligiri Ranganatha Temple Karnataka 215.72 41 Kawal Andhra Pradesh 1125.89 TOTAL 28750.73421

INSTALLATION OF SOLAR SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM TO DETECT SAND MINERS AND POACHERS 26th February, 2013 RSQ 161 SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that a Solar Surveillance System has been planned to be installed at environmentally vulnerable places, bird sanctuaries/national parks etc. to detect sand and stone miners as well as poachers;

(b) the details of the time line for completion for this project; and (c) the details of response of the State Governments in this regard and the likely expenditure to be

incurred? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b) & (c) A pilot initiative of electronic surveillance (“e-Eye”), using long range, intelligent thermal and infrared cameras, has been implemented in the southern part of the Corbett Tiger Reserve for 24X7 surveillance to strengthen protection. The said initiative has been successfully implemented and well received by the State. Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, funding assistance is provided to States, based on their demands as reflected in the respective Annual Plan of Operations, for such efforts. DEVELOPMENT OF HOUSING PROJECTS ON WETLAND 26th February, 2013 RSQ 162 SHRI Y. S. CHOWDARY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has received any complaints against the developers for development of housing projects on wetland etc.; and

(b) if so, the action taken thereon? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) & (b) A complaint was received regarding reclamation of wetland habitats in Bil Akbarpur, Greater Noida by M/s Ansal Private Limited for a township. A Central team was sent to the site to verify facts. On the basis of field inspections/verification, directions were issued by this Ministry to the builder under Section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to stop any construction/earth filling/land reclamation work in the vicinity of wetlands and lands having the characteristics of wetlands. NEW BOARD FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE OF VARIOUS PROJECTS 26th February, 2013 RSQ 163 SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is proposed to constitute a new Board to speed up environment clearance of various projects in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether this initiative is confined to projects in the field of energy and infrastructure development

only; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) the details of projects that are awaiting approval for environment clearance State-wise; and (f) the time-frame within which these projects would be cleared and approvals will be conveyed to speed

up investments and spur growth of the economy? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d): While there is no proposal to constitute a new Board to speed up environment clearance of various projects, the Government has decided to constitute a Cabinet Committee on Investment. The functions of the Committee would be as under:

(i). to identify key projects required to be implemented on a time-bound basis, involving investment of Rs. 1000 Crore or more, or any other critical projects, as may be specified by the Committee, in sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing.etc. ;

(ii). to prescribe time limits for issue of requisite approvals and clearances by the Ministries/Departments concerned in respect of projects in identified sectors;

(iii). to monitor the progress of identified projects including the time prescribed/taken to obtain each approval/clearance and delays, if any;

(iv). to review the procedures followed by Ministries/Departments to grant/refuse approvals and clearances; (v). to review the procedures followed by Ministries/Departments to grant/refusal of approval/clearance of

specific projects that are unduly delayed, if deemed necessary; (vi). to take decision regarding grant/refusal of approval/clearance of specific projects that are unduly delayed, if

deemed necessary; (vii). to consider and decide measures required for expeditiously granting/refusing approvals/ clearances in

identified sectors including simplification of rules/procedures followed by the respective Ministries/Departments for decision making; and

(viii). To require statutory authorities to discharge functions and exercise powers under the relevant law/regulation within the prescribed time frames for promoting investment and economic growth.

(e) & (f): State-wise details of projects that are awaiting approval for environment clearance are at Annexure I. The project proposals for environment clearance are dealt with as per the provisions under the EIA Notification, 2006.

Annexure 1

State-wise details of project proposals pending for Environmental Clearance (EC)

S.N. Name of the State/UT Total Number of proposals pending for EC

1 Andhra Pradesh 27 2 A & N 2 3 Arunachal Pradesh 1 4 Assam 3 5 Bihar 1 6 Chandigarh 7 Chhattisgarh 20 8 Dadar Nagar Haveli 3 9 Daman & Diu - 10 Delhi - 11 Goa 1 12 Gujarat 50 13 Haryana 6 14 Himachal Pradesh 11 15 Jammu & Kashmir 3 16 Jharkhand 45 17 Karnataka 16 18 Kerala 3 19 Madhya Pradesh 30 20 Maharashtra 63 21 Manipur - 22 Meghalaya 2 23 Mizoram - 24 Nagaland - 25 Lakshdweep - 26 Pondicherry 1 27 Orissa 40 28 Punjab 9 29 Rajasthan 56 30 Sikkim 1 31 Tamil Nadu 15 32 Tripura - 33 Uttarakhand 31 34 Uttar Pradesh 11 35 West Bengal 5 Total 456

DEATH OF BLACKBUCKS IN KANPUR ZOO 26th February, 2013 RSQ 164 SHRI RASHEED MASOOD: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of Blackbuck which have died in Kanpur Zoo and the reasons therefor; and (b) the action taken against the guilty officers/ staff members of the Zoo?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) A total number of 31 Blackbuck died in Kanpur Zoo due to attack by the stray dogs on the night of 19th/20th January 2013. (b) The State Government of Uttar Pradesh reportedly has suspended the Director, Kanpur Zoological Park, Kanpur along with the Keeper-1, Night Chowkidar-1, Wildlife Guards-2, Forester-1 &Range Officer-1after conducting detailed enquiry and fixing up of the responsibility of the lapse. GENDER DISCRIMINATION IN WAGES 26th February, 2013 RSQ 165 SMT KANIMOZHI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it has been brought to the notice of the Ministry that female contract labourers hired by forest staff are not being paid wages equivalent to their male counterparts;

(b) if so, the details thereof and action taken in this regard; (c) whether the Ministry has formulated any laws or schemes to ensure gender-sensitization in its

departments; and (d) if so, the details thereof ?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & ( b) The Ministry supports afforestation programmes taking into account the approved wage rates of the State Governments which prescribes rates according to the nature of the work rather than the gender. No reports of discrimination in the payment of wages to women labourers has been received in the Ministry. (c ) & (d) The Ministry has incorporated provisions in its schemes to ensure gender sensitization. The National Afforestation Programme (NAP) is implemented for ecorestoration of the degraded forests through the Joint Forest Management Committee (JFMC) at the village level and Forest Development Agencies (FDA) at the district level. These guidelines provide for adequate representation of the women members in the general and executive bodies of the JFMC and FDAs. CONSERVATION OF WETLANDS IN ANDHRA PRADESH 26th February, 2013 RSQ 166 SHRI C.M. RAMESH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of wetlands the Ministry has identified in Andhra Pradesh; (b) the details of efforts the Ministry is making to conserve the wetlands in Andhra Pradesh; (c) whether wetlands in Andhra Pradesh are being used for other purposes; (d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the names of States which have constituted Wetland Development Authorities (WDA) and what are the functions and responsibilities of WDA?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) Considering the importance of wetlands, Ministry has identified Kolleru wetland in the State of Andhra Pradesh for conservation and management. Kolleru wetland is also designated as a Ramsar site of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, 1971 and notified under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 for regulating the wetland for preventing its use beyond carrying capacity. The Ministry has so far provided a financial assistance to the tune of Rs.2.50 crore to Government of Andhra Pradesh, for engaging consultants for preparing Management Action Plans (MAPs) and undertaking conservation activities in Kolleru wetland. As per information from Government of Andhra Pradesh, the wetlands under Forest Department in the State, are not used for other purposes. (e) The Lakes & Wetlands Development Authorities have been constituted by the States namely, Odisha, Karnataka, Manipur, Tripura, West Bengal and Jammu & Kashmir. These authorities prepare and submit MAPs, co-ordinate their implementation and undertake monitoring of ongoing conservation activities in identified wetlands in their States. REHABILITATION OF TRIBALS DISPLACED FROM FOREST LAND 26th February, 2013 RSQ 167 DR. NAJMA A. HEPTULLA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has decided to maintain environmental stability and ecological security of the nation including water cycle, biodiversity conservation, land productivity etc.;

(b) if so, whether Government has made any provisions to check the forcible displacement of adivasis from the forests where they have been residing for ages, in the name of protected forest in the country;

(c) the number of incidents of displacing adivasis settled down in forests and handing over forests to the corporate sector during the last five years, State-wise; including Madhya Pradesh; and

(d) the facilities provided to the displaced for their rehabilitation in Madhya Pradesh, year-wise and location-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Ministry of Environment & Forests is implementing National Environment Policy, 2006, The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, National Forest Policy, 1988, and Rules made thereunder which address the concerns for the environmental stability and ecological security of the nation including water cycle, biodiversity conservation and forest land productivity, etc (b) The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 recognises and vests the forest rights and occupation in forest land in forest dwelling scheduled tribes and other forest dwellers who have been residing in such forest for generations but whose rights are not recorded. The Act provides that no member of a forest dwelling scheduled tribe or other traditional forest dweller shall be evicted or removed from forest under his occupation till the recognition and verification procedure is complete.

(c) & (d) Diversion of forest land for non-forestry purpose is regulated under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. Resettlement and Rehabilitation Plans, wherever applicable, are in-built components of the proposals for diversion of forest land. Specific details in this regard are not maintained in the Ministry. NON-PLAN EXPENDITURE FOR DELHI ZOO 26th February, 2013 RSQ 168 SMT SMRITI ZUBIN IRANI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that its decision to cut 10 per cent non-plan expenditure for Delhi Zoo would severely impact the food, sanitation, power and water bill and the keepers’ wages;

(b) if so, the details thereof and what prompted the Ministry to take this decision; (c) how the Ministry will ensure that in these days of inflation, by cutting 10 percent non-plan

expenditure, it would be able to provide proper facilities to the animals; (d) whether Government is thinking to review its decision; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) to (e) The decision to cut 10% Non-Plan expenditure was in view of the Guidelines on austerity measures issued by the Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure O.M. No. 7(1)E.Coord/2012 dated 31st May,2012. The Ministry after reviewing the impact of its decision of 10% cut in Non-Plan Expenditure of National Zoological Park has restored the cut and the total provision under the Object Head has been retained. DEATH OF ANIMALS DUE TO UNNATURAL CAUSES 26th February, 2013 RSQ 169 SHRI N. BALAGANGA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of wild animals died due to unnatural causes during the last two years, year-wise and State-wise;

(b) whether poaching had been one of the main reasons, apart from accidents for unnatural deaths of hippos, elephants and tigers;

(c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the action taken by Government to punish the guilty and to protect the wildlife?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a),(b)& (c) Yes, Sir. Poaching has been one of the main reasons for death of wild animals like tigers and elephants apart from accidents. Hippos are not found in wild in India. The State-wise, year-wise details of death of major wild

animal species like tiger, elephant, lion and rhino due to poaching and unnatural causes during the last two years, as per the information available in the Ministry, are at Annexures -I(a), I(b), I(c) & I(d) respectively. (d) Action is taken against the guilty as per the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. The steps taken by the Government for protection of wild animals in the country include:

i. Legal protection has been provided to wild animals against hunting and commercial exploitation under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

ii. In addition to provision of stringent punishment for the offenders, the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 also provides for forfeiture of any equipment, vehicle or weapon that is used for committing wildlife offence(s).

iii. Protected Areas, viz., National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves covering important wildlife habitats have been created all over the country under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to conserve wild animals and their habitats.

iv. Financial and technical assistance is provided to the State/ Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats', ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ for providing better protection to wildlife, and improvement of its habitat.

v. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been empowered under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to apprehend and prosecute wildlife offenders.

vi. The State/Union Territory Governments have been requested to strengthen the field formations and intensify patrolling in and around the Protected Areas.

vii. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to ensure co-ordination among various officers and State Governments in connection with the enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.

viii. Strict vigil is maintained by the officials of State Departments of Forests and Wildlife.

ANNEXURE-Ia ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a),(b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 169 REGARDING ‘DEATH OF ANIMALS DUE TO UNNATURAL CAUSES’ BY SHRI N. BALAGANGA DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.2.2013. Details of tiger mortality, as reported by States, during the last two years

Sl. No.

State 2011 2012 (as on 22.11.2012)

Poaching including seizure

Natural & other causes



1 Andhra Pradesh 0 0 0 0 2 Arunachal

Pradesh 0 0 0 0

3 Assam 3 3 1 3 4 Bihar 0 1 0 1 5 Chhattisgarh 2 0 1 0 6 Jharkhand 0 0 0 0 7 Karnataka 3 3 9 4 8 Kerala 1 3 3 0 9 Madhya Pradesh 0 5 8 5

10 Maharashtra 4 2 10 4 11 Mizoram 0 0 0 0 12 Orissa 0 1 1 0 13 Rajasthan 0 1 0 0 14 Tamil Nadu 0 3 4 2 15 Uttarakhand 2 0 6 6 16 Uttar Pradesh 1 15 5 1

17 West Bengal 0 0 1 2 18 Haryana 0 3 1 0 19 Delhi 0 0 0 0 20 Goa 0 0 0 0

TOTAL 16 40 50 28

ANNEXURE-Ib ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a),(b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 169 REGARDING ‘DEATH OF ANIMALS DUE TO UNNATURAL CAUSES’ BY SHRI N. BALAGANGA DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.2.2013. Details of elephant mortality for the last two years as reported by States Elephant casualties in train accidents

S. No. State 2010-11 2011-12 1. Assam 2 0 2. West Bengal 13 2 3. Tamil Nadu 0 0 4. Jharkhand 1 1 5. Kerala 0 0 6. Odisha 0 1 7. Tripura 1 0 TOTAL 17 4

Elephant death due to poaching

S. No. State 2010-11 2011-12 1. Andhra Pradesh 0 0 2. Arunachal Pradesh 0 0 3. Assam 2 0 4. West Bengal 0 0 5. Uttarakhand 0 0 6. Uttar Pradesh 0 0 7. Tamil Nadu 0 1 8. Jharkhand 0 1 9. Kerala 0 0 10. Odisha 17 8 11. Karnataka 7 3 12. Nagaland 0 0 13. Meghalaya 0 0

TOTAL 26 13

ANNEXURE-Ic ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a),(b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 169 REGARDING ‘DEATH OF ANIMALS DUE TO UNNATURAL CAUSES’ BY SHRI N. BALAGANGA DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.2.2013. Details of lion mortality for the last two years as reported by the State (Gujarat) Year Natural

death Accidental Electrocution Poaching Falling in

well Self defence

Total

2010-11 37 0 1 0 4 0 42 2011-12 41 0 2 0 3 0 46

ANNEXURE-Id ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a),(b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 169 REGARDING ‘DEATH OF ANIMALS DUE TO UNNATURAL CAUSES’ BY SHRI N. BALAGANGA DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.2.2013. Details of rhino mortality for the last two years as reported by States

Sl. No.

State 2011 2012 (as on 22.11.2012)


Poaching Natural & other

causes

Poaching

1. Assam 69 7 96 13 2. West

Bengal 7 0 1 0

3. Uttar Pradesh

3 0 Nil Nil

RISING POLLUTION IN THE SEA COAST 26th February, 2013 RSQ 170 SHRI K.N.BALAGOPAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) Whether the Ministry have noticed about the alarmingly increasing pollution in the sea coast of the country; and

(b) If so, the details thereof and the steps taken to control it? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)&(b) Monitoring of marine pollution through Coastal Ocean Monitoring and Prediction System programme is carried out by Integrated Coastal and Marine Area Management Project Directorate, Chennai, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India. The State Pollution Control Boards are regulating water pollution under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act,1974 including discharge of wastewater to coastal areas. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has laid down effluent standards under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 in order to ensure that the industries comply with the prescribed standards. The Central Government at national level and the State Governments at the State level are also empowered under the E(P) Act, 1986 and have declared coastal stretches as Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) imposing restriction on industries, operations and process in the CRZ. However, no alarming increase of pollution in the sea coasts of the country has been reported by the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) / Pollution Control Committees (PCCs). The following steps have been taken to prevent and control coastal pollution:

(i) Control of Industrial pollution under the provisions of Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

(ii) Ensuring pollution control compliance in 17 categories of highly polluting industries.

(iii) Urban centres discharging wastewater in aquatic resources and having no treatment facilities have been identified and recommended for appropriate action to respective authorities.

(iv) With respect to industrial effluents, consent management for compliance of standards is being enforced by SPCBs / PCCs to improve the water quality.

MODERNIZATION OF TIGER PROTECTION MECHANISM IN THE COUNTRY 26th February, 2013 RSQ 171 DR. CHANDAN MITRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that despite high tech initiative for modernizing tiger protection mechanism in the country, the cases of tiger poaching have increased more than double since 2011;

(b) if so, the details of cases of tiger poaching for the last three years along with reasons therefor, State-wise; and

(c) the corrective steps taken by Government to stop tiger poaching in the country? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The details of tiger mortality, as reported by States during the last three years, State-wise with reasons, are at Annexure-I. (c) The milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection of tiger and other wildlife are at Annexure-II.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 171 ON MODERNIZATION OF TIGER PROTECTION MECHANISM IN THE COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.02.2013. Details of tiger mortality, as reported by States, during last three years Sl. No.

State 2010 2011 2012 (as on 31.12.2012)





Poaching/Under Scrutiny including seizure


1 Andhra Pradesh 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 Arunachal

Pradesh 0 0 0 0 1 0

3 Assam 2 6 3 3 3 3 4 Bihar 1 0 0 1 0 1 5 Chhattisgarh 2 0 2 0 1 0 6 Jharkhand 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 Karnataka 5 2 3 3 10 4 8 Kerala 2 1 1 3 4 1 9 Madhya Pradesh 3 5 0 5 10 5

10 Maharashtra 5 3 4 2 9 4 11 Mizoram 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 Odisha 0 0 0 1 1 0 13 Rajasthan 3 1 0 1 1 0 14 Tamil Nadu 2 2 0 3 6 2 15 Uttarakhand 1 4 2 0 6 6 16 Uttar Pradesh 1 1 1 15 5 1 17 West Bengal 1 0 0 0 1 2 18 Haryana 0 0 0 3 1 0 19 Delhi 0 0 0 0 0 0 20 Goa 0 0 0 0 0 0

TOTAL 28 25 16 40 59 29

Annexure-II ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 171 ON MODERNIZATION OF TIGER PROTECTION MECHANISM IN THE COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.02.2013. Milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection and conservation of tigers Legal steps

1. Amendment of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 in 2006 to provide enabling provisions for constituting the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau.

2. Enhancement of punishment for offence in relation to the core area of a tiger reserve or where the offence relate to hunting in the tiger reserves or altering the boundaries of tiger reserves, etc.

Administrative steps

3. Strengthening of antipoaching activities, including special strategy for monsoon patrolling, by providing funding support to tiger reserve States, as proposed by them, for deployment of antipoaching squads involving ex-army personnel or home guards, apart from workforce comprising of local people, in addition to strengthening of communication and wireless facilities.

4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from the 4th September, 2006, for strengthening tiger conservation by, inter alia, ensuring normative standards in tiger reserve management, preparation of reserve specific tiger conservation plan, laying down annual audit report before Parliament, constituting State level Steering Committees under the Chairmanship of Chief Ministers and establishment of Tiger Conservation Foundation.

5. Constitution of a multidisciplinary Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau (Wildlife Crime Control Bureau) with effect from the 6th June, 2007 to effectively control illegal trade in wildlife.

6. The in-principle approval has been accorded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority for creation of five new tiger reserves, and the sites are:, Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh), Ratapani (Madhya Pradesh), Sunabeda (Odisha), Mukundara Hills (including Darrah, Jawahar Sagar and Chambal Wildlife Sanctuaries) (Rajasthan) and Satyamangalam (Tamil Nadu). Final approval has been accorded to Kudremukh (Karnataka) for declaring as a tiger reserve. The State Governments have been advised to send proposals for declaring the following areas as tiger reserves: (i) Bor (Maharashtra), (ii) Suhelwa (Uttar Pradesh), (iii) Nagzira-Navegaon (Maharashtra), (iv) Guru Ghasidas National Park (Chhattisgarh), (v) Mhadei Sanctuary (Goa) and (vi) Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel / Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries / Varushanadu Valley (Tamil Nadu).

7. The revised Project Tiger guidelines have been issued to State Governments for strengthening tiger conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, inter alia, include financial support to States for enhanced village relocation or rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats

(from Rs. 1 lakh per family to Rs. 10 lakhs per family), rehabilitation or resettlement of communities involved in traditional hunting, mainstreaming livelihood and wildlife concerns in forests outside tiger reserves and fostering corridor conservation through restorative strategy to arrest habitat fragmentation.

8. A scientific methodology for estimating tiger (including co-predators, prey animals and assessment of habitat status) has been evolved and mainstreamed. The findings of this estimation and assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. The 17 tiger States have notified the core/critical tiger habitat (35123.9547 sq. km.), and the buffer/peripheral area (28750.73421 sq.km.) of all the 41 tiger reserves in the country, under section 38V of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006.

Financial steps

10. Financial and technical help is provided to the State Governments under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes, such as Project Tiger and Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats for enhancing the capacity and infrastructure of the State Governments for providing effective protection to wild animals.

International Cooperation

11. India has a bilateral understanding with Nepal on controlling trans-boundary illegal trade in wildlife and conservation, apart from a protocol on tiger conservation with China.

12. A protocol has been signed in September, 2011 with Bangladesh for conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sunderban.

13. A sub-group on tiger and leopard conservation has been constituted for cooperation with the Russian Federation.

14. A Global Tiger Forum of Tiger Range Countries has been created for addressing international issues related to tiger conservation.

15. During the 14th meeting of the Conference of Parties to CITES, which was held from 3rd to 15th June, 2007 at The Hague, India introduced a resolution along with China, Nepal and the Russian Federation, with direction to Parties with operations breeding tigers on a commercial scale, for restricting such captive populations to a level supportive only to conserving wild tigers. The resolution was adopted as a decision with minor amendments. Further, India made an intervention appealing to China to phase out tiger farming and eliminate stockpiles of Asian big cats body parts and derivatives. The importance of continuing the ban on trade of body parts of tigers was emphasized.

16. Based on India's strong intervention during the 62nd meeting of the Standing Committee of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) at Geneva from 23-27 July, 2012, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora Secretariat has issued a notification No. 2012/054 dated the 3rd September, 2012 to Parties to fully implement Decision 14.69 and report to the Secretariat by 25 September, 2012 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.).

17. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers and tigresses have been done. The successful reintroduction of wild tigers in Sariska is a unique exercise and is the first of its kind in the world. A reintroduced tigress has recently littered and two cubs have also been camera trapped. The tiger reintroduction initiative at Panna (MP) has also been very successful and reintroduced tigers are breeding.

18. Special advisories issued for in-situ build up of prey base and tiger population through active management in tiger reserves having low population status of tiger and its prey.

Creation of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)

19. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of the 29th February, 2008, inter alia, contains action points relating to tiger protection. Based on the one time grant of Rs. 50.00 crore provided to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for raising, arming and deploying a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF), the proposal for the said force has been approved

by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. The States of Karnataka and Maharashtra have already created and deployed the STPF.

20. In collaboration with TRAFFIC-INDIA, an online tiger crime data base has been launched, and Generic Guidelines for preparation of reserve specific Security Plan has been evolved.

Recent initiatives

21. Implementing a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with tiger States, linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives.

22. Special crack teams sent to tiger reserves affected by left wing extremism and low population status of tiger and its prey.

23. Chief Ministers of States having tiger reserves affected by left wing extremism and low population status of tiger and its prey addressed for taking special initiatives.

24. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching 'Monitoring system for Tigers' Intensive Protection and Ecological Status (M-STrIPES)' for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

25. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation. 26. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from

providing incentives. 27. The second round of country level tiger status assessment completed in 2010, with the findings

indicating an increase with a tiger population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively, as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657, respectively. At present, India has the maximum number of tigers and its source areas amongst the 13 tiger range countries in the world, owing to its long history of conserving the species through Project Tiger (2% of country's geographical area spread out in 41 tiger reserves in 17 States).

28. A report on Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of Tiger Reserves was released on 28th July, 2011, containing the second round of independent assessment based on refined criteria done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves. Out of 39 tiger reserves, 15 were rated as 'very good', 12 as 'good', 8 as 'satisfactory' and 4 as 'poor'.

29. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas. 30. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and

Guwahati. 31. A 'Standard Operating Procedure' for dealing with tiger deaths has been issued, based on advisories of

Project Tiger / National Tiger Conservation Authority, with inputs from Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, State officials and experts, fine tuned to meet the present challenges.

32. A ‘Standard Operating Procedure’ for dealing with straying tigers in human dominated landscape has been issued.

33. The Revised Cost Estimates for Project Tiger was approved on 11.8.2011 for an upward revision of the cost estimates for the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger during the XIth Plan period from 650 crore to Rs. 1216.86 crore of central assistance to support States in village relocation from core areas of tiger reserves. Several new components were added to the Project, viz.:

(i) Change in the funding pattern in respect of North Eastern States (90:10) (ii) Raising compensation for man-animal conflict to Rs. 2 lakhs (iii) Acquisition of private land for making the core/critical tiger habitat inviolate (iv) Establishment of Tiger Safari, interpretation/awareness centres under the existing component of 'co-

existence agenda in buffer/fringe areas', and management of such centres through the respective Panchayati Raj Institutions

(v) Re-introduction of Cheetah

34. Launching of Phase-IV tiger reserve level, continuous monitoring of tigers using camera traps and building up data on photo captures of individual tigers.

35. Launching the creation of a national repository of camera trap photo IDs of individual tigers. 36. Notification of the Kawal Tiger Reserve in Andhra Pradesh. 37. In-principle approval for use of CAMPA funds towards village relocation from core areas.

38. Completion of e-surveillance project in Corbett. 39. Comprehensive guidelines under section 38O 1 (c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 issued for

Project Tiger and Tourism in Tiger Reserves on 15th October, 2012. 40. Under active management, permission accorded for translocation of two tigresses from Ranthambhore

to Sariska (Rajasthan), besides one straying sub-adult male tiger from Panna to Satpura (Madhya Pradesh).

41. A bilateral arrangement has been recently formalized with Bangladesh on tiger conservation. Our delegations are interacting with Nepal and China within the framework of existing bilateral arrangements. A sub-group on tiger/leopard conservation has been constituted for cooperation with the Russian Federation, which has met recently.

42. Field level workshops for capacity building of field officers to deal with straying tigers have been organized at Tadoba and Dudhwa Tiger Reserves (2013).

43. NTCA teams sent for field appraisal of tiger deaths, Project Tiger implementation etc. 44. Process underway for providing enabling provisions in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, to

strengthen our implementation of the CITES and towards enhancement of penalties for contravention of provisions of the Act.

PENDING PROPOSALS OF DEFENCE ESTABLISHMENTS IN A&N ISLANDS 26th February, 2013 RSQ 172 SHRI PRAKASH JAVADEKAR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of proposals sent by Defence establishments in Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) islands which are waiting for environmental clearances;

(b) the details of all such proposals pending for such clearances; (c) the details of such proposals which stand rejected along with the reasons therefor; and (d) the details of steps Government contemplates to ensure early sanctions and review of rejected

clearances of this strategic sector? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The proposal for Coastal Zone Regulation (CRZ) clearance for the provision of Jetty Extension Phase-II and Wet Basin & Refit Jetty at naval ship repair yard has been received in the Ministry on 18.12.2012 for consideration of environment clearance. (c) No defence related project proposal in Andaman and Nicobar islands has been rejected for environment clearance in last two years. (d) This Ministry has constituted a separate Expert Appraisal Committee to examine defence related strategic projects attracting Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2011 and Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 2006. IMPACT OF BRICK-SOIL EXCAVATION ON SOIL FERTILITY 26th February, 2013 RSQ 173 DR. K.V.P. RAMACHANDRA:


(a) whether it is a fact that brick-soil excavation causes loss of fertile top soil and affects the soil integrity;

(b) if so, the estimated amount of soil being used for such purposes; and (c) the steps being taken to prevent this?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) to (c): As per information made available by the Central Pollution Control Board, Brick-soil excavation causes loss of fertility of top soil. The Ministry of Urban Development has initiated action through Central Public Works Department to promote alternative materials as a suitable substitute for the traditional clay bricks. Further, the Ministry of Environment & Forests has issued a notification on 14th September, 1999 to protect the environment, conserve top soil and prevent the dumping and disposal of fly ash discharge from coal or lignite based thermal power plants on land. As per this notification, all agency, person or organisation within a radius of hundred kms. of a thermal power plant shall use only fly ash based products for construction, such as: cement or concrete, fly ash bricks or blocks or tiles or clay fly ash bricks, blocks or tiles or cement fly ash bricks or bricks or similar procedure or a combination or aggregate of them, in every construction project. IMPORT OF E-WASTE IN THE COUNTRY 26th February, 2013 RSQ 174 DR. K.V.P. RAMACHANDRA RAO: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that electronic waste (e-waste) from other countries is imported into the country; (b) if so, the amount of such e-waste imported into the country; and (c) the details of manner in which such e-waste is disposed?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c): As per the Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008, import of e-waste for disposal is not permitted. Under the Rules, import is permitted only for recycling or recovery or reuse with the permission of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The Ministry has also notified the E-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 for effective management of e-waste in the country. Under the Rules, the producers are responsible for collection of e-waste generated from the end of life of their products by setting up collection centers or take back systems individually or collectively. E-waste recycling can be undertaken only in facilities authorized and registered with State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees. ENVIRONMENT PERFORMANCE INDEX LIST 26th February, 2013 RSQ 175 SHRI AJAY SANCHETI:


(a) Whether the Planning Commission has drawn an environment performance index list; (b) If so, the details thereof, State-wise; (c) Whether some States have set up sewage treatment capacity ranging from 0 to 50 per cent; (d) If so, the States which fall in these ranges; and (e) the names of best performing States as per this index?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Planning Commission has drawn an Environment Performance Index (EPI) to incentivise States for environmental performance through budgetary allocations. Five criteria viz. air pollution, forests, water quality, waste management and climate change comprising sixteen indicators were chosen, which when combined give a composite ranking of the States. The Statewise ranks as per the index, for the year 2012 are given at Annexure I. (c) & (d) Sewage Treatment Capacity is one of the items considered in the index. As per this index, the list of States which have set up sewage treatment capacity ranging from 0 to 50 percent is given at Annexure II. (e) As per this index, the top five performing States in the year 2012 are as under: Rank 1 – Andhra Pradesh Rank 2 – Sikkim Rank 3 – Himachal Pradesh Rank 4 – Madhya Pradesh Rank 5 – Maharashtra ANNEXURE I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (B) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 175 DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.2.2013 REGARDING ENVIRONMENT PERFORMANCE INDEX LIST RAISED BY SHRI AJAY SANCHETI. Environmental Performance Score and Ranking (6/12/12) S. NO.

STATE / UTs

FINAL EPI-2012

Score

Rank

1 A. Pradesh 0.7696 1 2 Aru. Pradesh 0.4310 31 3 Assam 0.6426 14 4 Bihar 0.4494 30 5 Chhattisgarh 0.6478 11 6 Delhi 0.4246 32 7 Goa 0.5991 17 8 Gujarat 0.6944 7 9 Haryana 0.4933 27

10 H. Pradesh 0.7414 3 11 J&K 0.5483 22 12 Jharkhand 0.5491 21 13 Karnataka 0.6851 8 14 Kerala 0.6311 15 15 M. Pradesh 0.7334 4 16 Maharashtra 0.7167 5 17 Manipur 0.4811 28 18 Meghalaya 0.6524 10

19 Mizoram 0.6448 12 20 Nagaland 0.4960 26 21 Orissa 0.7118 6 22 Punjab 0.5460 23 23 Rajasthan 0.5905 18 24 Sikkim 0.7478 2 25 Tamil Nadu 0.6616 9 26 Tripura 0.5624 20 27 UP 0.5388 24 28 Uttarakand 0.6142 16 29 West Bengal 0.5330 25 30 A & Nicobar 0.3072 34 31 Chandigarh 0.6430 13 32 D & NH 0.4684 29 33 D& Diu 0.3944 33 34 Lakshadweep 0.2925 35 35 Pondicherry 0.5636 19

ANNEXURE II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (C) TO (D) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 175 DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.2.2013 REGARDING ENVIRONMENT PERFORMANCE INDEX LIST RAISED BY SHRI AJAY SANCHETI. Percentage Sewage Treatment Capacity

S.No.

State/UT

Sewage Gen. (MLD)

% Treatment Capacity

Score -1

1 A. Pradesh 1636 42.43 0.4243 2 Aru. Pradesh NA 0 0 3 Assam 423.8 0 0 4 Bihar 1278 10.76 0.1076 5 Chhattisgarh 261 0 0 6 Delhi 3800 61.32 0.6132 7 Goa 21.5 84.51 0.8451 8 Gujarat 2376 32.95 0.3295 9 Haryana 541 57.67 0.5767

10 H. Pradesh 29 100 1 11 J&K 193.7 7.74 0.0774 12 Jharkhand 645.8 0 0 13 Karnataka 1888 12.24 0.1224 14 Kerala 721.2 0 0 15 M. Pradesh 1430 13.01 0.1301 16 Maharashtra 5883 72.89 0.7289 17 Manipur 26.7 0 0 18 Meghalaya 28 0 0 19 Mizoram 29.6 0 0 20 Nagaland 23.9 0 0 21 Orissa 692.2 7.66 0.0766 22 Punjab 1685 42.14 0.4214 23 Rajasthan 1510 3.58 0.0358 24 Sikkim 23.34 8 0.08 25 Tamil Nadu 1348 24.81 0.2481 26 Tripura 24.4 0 0 27 UP 3747 33.04 0.3304

28 Uttarakhand 180.9 13.54 0.1354 29 West Bengal 2762 20.56 0.2056 30 A & N 12.9 0 0 31 Chandigarh 402 83.96 0.8396 32 D & NH NA 0 0 33 D & D NA 0 0 34 Lakshadweep NA 0 0 35 Pondicherry 66 30.00. 0.3000

IMPACT OF RIVER BED MINING ON ECOLOGY 26th February, 2013 RSQ 176 DR. PRABHAKAR KORE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has framed the Mines Concession Rules for mining minerals in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government is aware that the river bed mining for extraction of sand is rampant in the

country; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether steps are being taken against illegal sand miners to prevent adverse impact on ecology; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) & (b) : The Ministry of Mines has framed Mineral Concession Rules under Section 13 of Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) [MMDR] Act, 1957 which has been notified in the Gazette vide GSR No. 1398 dated 11.11.1960. The State Governments have been given powers to make rules in respect of minor minerals under section 15 of the MMDR Act, 1957. (c) to (f) : Sand mining is regulated in terms of the MMDR Act, 1957 and the rules framed therein. Mining projects of sand require prior environment clearance. This is with a view to ensuring that the mining is done in a scientific and sustainable manner. As per section 23C of the MMDR Act, 1957, State Governments have been empowered to make rules for preventing illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals. ANIMAL DEATHS IN THE WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES AND ZOOS 26th February, 2013 RSQ 177 SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether a number of wild animals/other animals have died or got killed in the Wildlife Sanctuaries and Zoological Parks of the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the causes of deaths during the last three years and the current year, State-wise; and

(c) the corrective action taken or being taken by Government and the steps taken to avoid such incidents in future?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)&(b) The management and protection of wild animals in wildlife sanctuaries in the country is looked after by the concerned State/Union Territory Governments. State-wise details of death of wild animals in Wildlife Sanctuaries are not collated in the Ministry. However, the State-wise details of deaths of animals in Zoological Parks during last three years and the current year is given in the Annexure. The major reasons for death of animals in Wildlife Sanctuaries include natural deaths, predation, infighting among competing individuals of the same species, accidental deaths, poaching etc. In Zoological Parks, the major reasons for the deaths of animals include old age, senility, infighting, respiratory failure, septicemia etc. (c ) Central Zoo Authority had laid standards and norms regarding upkeep and healthcare of animals under Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009, which is mandatory for all the zoos to follow. Necessary steps are being taken up by the respective zoo operator to avoid such situation in future. If any person is found guilty for negligence etc., action is also taken by respective zoo operator/ State Government. While the management of Wildlife Sanctuaries is looked after by the concerned State/Union Territory Government, the Central Government has taken the following steps to strengthen the protection of wild animals in such sanctuaries:

i. Legal protection has been provided to wild animals and plants against hunting and commercial exploitation under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

ii. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, has been amended and made more stringent. The punishments for offences have been enhanced. The Act also provides for forfeiture of any equipment, vehicle or weapon that is used for committing wildlife offence(s).





vii. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to strengthen the enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.

viii. Strict vigil is maintained by the officials of State Departments of Forests and Wildlife. ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 177 REGARDING ‘ANIMAL DEATHS IN THE WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES AND ZOOS’ BY SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA DUE FOR REPLY ON 26.2.2013. State-wise details of death of animals in Zoological Parks during last three years and the current year

Sl. No.

Name of the State/Uts 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

2012-13(up to

20.2.2012)

1. A& N Islands 3 4 6 0 2. Andhra Pradesh 157 188 169 6 3. Arunachal Pradesh 18 5 8 2

PLANTATION OF TREES AROUND MULTI-STORIED BUILDINGS 26th February, 2013 RSQ 178 DR. PRABHA THAKUR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether maintenance of the trees planted in the forest areas is entrusted upon forest departments in every State;

(b) if so, the percentage of such trees thrived alongwith details thereof for last three years, State-wise; (c) whether Government has framed any policy for plantation of trees in the adjoining areas of the multi-

storey buildings; (d) if so, whether Government is aware of continuously emerging multi-storey buildings in Andheri West

area in Mumbai where plantation of trees and park development work are being ignored; and (e) if so, the details thereof ?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Ministry of Environment and forests is implementing a Centrally Sponsored scheme of National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas through people’s participation in the country. The scheme is being implemented through a decentralized mechanism of State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) at State level, Forest Development Agency (FDA) at Division level and Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMC) at village level. JFMCs are empowered for planning, decision making,

4. Assam 34 42 46 13 5. Bihar 175 19 26 4 6. Chhattisgarh 50 41 171 17 7. Delhi 27 109 83 0 8. Goa 5 7 6 1 9 Gujarat 301 380 295 12

10. Haryana 36 94 53 0 11. Himachal Pradesh 43 51 44 0 12. Jammu & Kashmir 0 5 9 0 13. Jharkhand 65 80 111 1 14. Karnataka 799 367 419 3 15. Kerala 121 162 117 1 16. Madhya Pradesh 120 77 64 8 17. Maharashtra 92 242 148 25 18. Manipur 77 25 15 0 19. Meghalaya 12 10 13 1 20. Mizoram 5 3 12 0 21. Nagaland 14 5 0 0 22. Odisha 116 179 139 7 23. Punjab 77 113 129 8 24. Rajasthan 90 130 150 0 25. Sikkim 4 6 2 0 26. Tamil Nadu 213 233 128 25 27. Tripura 55 61 38 3 28. Uttar Pradesh 177 147 97 37 29. Uttarakhand 30 27 29 0 30. West Bengal 153 132 138 14

TOTAL 3069 2944 2665 188

implementation of the activities under NAP. Sample evaluation of afforestation projects under NAP has been commissioned by the Ministry during the 11th Plan. Meta Analysis Study based on these evaluations indicates satisfactory tree-survival percentage, the state-wise details of which are annexed. (c), (d) & (e) The National Forest Policy, 1988 envisages 33% of the total geographical area of the country under forest and tree cover. The Ministry of Environment and Forests do not have any specific scheme/policy for plantation of trees in the adjoining areas of the multi-storey buildings in the country including Andheri West area in Mumbai.

ANNEXURE ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NUMBER 178 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 26.02.2013 REGARDING PLANTATION OF TREES AROUND MULTI-STORIED BUILDINGS. State-wise details of tree survival percentage based on Meta Analysis Study ELEPHANT CORRIDOR PROJECT AT PUSPAGIRI IN KARNATAKA 26th February, 2013 RSQ 179 DR. PRABHAKAR KORE:

SI. No. State Average Survival % 1 Andhra Pradesh 80.00 2 Arunachal Pradesh 70.00 3 Assam 60.30 4 Bihar 80.00 5 Chhattisgarh 72.58 6 Gujarat 70.00 7 Haryana 64.00 8 Himachal Pradesh 63.08 9 Jammu & Kashmir 72.00

10 Jharkhand 90.00 11 Karnataka 79.93 12 Kerala 70.24 13 Madhya Pradesh 80.32 14 Maharashtra 60.68 15 Manipur 60.00 16 Meghalaya 62.14 17 Mizoram 76.00 18 Nagaland 69.17 19 Orissa 85.07 20 Punjab 64.00 21 Rajasthan 57.00 22 Sikkim 79.50 23 Tamil Nadu 70.00 24 Tripura 76.50 25 Uttar Pradesh 68.92 26 Uttrakhand 51.73 27 West Bengal 79.00


(a) whether it is a fact that the proposed Elephant Corridor Project at Puspagiri Sanctuary in Karnataka was opposed by the local people;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has taken steps to resolve the issue through consultations with local people and

State Government authorities; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the stand of Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) (b) (c) & (d) There is no proposal for Elephant Corridor project pertaining to Pushpagiri Sanctuary in Karnataka. EFFECTED CLIMATE CHANGE ON HIMALAYAS 26th February, 2013 RSQ 180 SHRI AMBETH RAJAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the worst effect of climate change is felt in Himalayas and rivers originating from there; and

(b) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) Studies conducted by the Geological Survey of India projects likely impacts of glacier melting in Himalayan region, changes in river hydrology, increased debris production and siltation of rivers in downstream regions. Scientific studies and assessments relating to climate change report titled “Climate Change and India: 4X4 Assessment - A Sectoral and Regional Analysis for 2030s” also projects that there is likelihood of impacts of climate change in 2030s on “Agriculture, Natural ecosystem, Biodiversity, Human health and Water” in Himalayan region. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR LEFT BANK AND RIGHT BANK CANALS IN ODISHA 26th February, 2013 RSQ 181 SHRI PYARIMOHAN MOHAPATRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the State Government of Odisha has applied for environment and forest clearances for execution of Left Bank Canal, Phase-II, and Right Bank Canal;

(b) if so, when; (c) the steps taken to expedite the clearances in view of the importance of these canals for higher

agricultural productions; and

(d) the reasons for delay, if any, and the time by which the clearances are expected to be given? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to ( d ) The Government of Odisha applied for environmental clearance (EC) for execution of Left Bank Canal (LBC) and Right Bank Canal (RBC) including a barrage in Odisha under the Rengali Irrigation Project in April, 1996 and the Government had granted necessary EC vide dated 4.12.1996. Stage-I approval for 2107 ha of forest land was granted by the Ministry vide letter 21.11.1996 and Stage-II clearance for 812 ha forest land vide letter 14.5.2003 in the first Phase involving entire reservoir and portions of LBC and RBC systems of the project. For the construction of remaining portions of LBC and RBC system in the 2nd Phase, Stage-II Clearance is required for the balance 1295 ha of forest land. For this purpose, complete compliance reports on the stipulations imposed in the Stage-I and Stage-II (part) approval are to be submitted by the Government of Odisha. INDISCRIMINATE FELLING OF TREES IN DELHI 26th February, 2013 RSQ 182 SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that various agencies are engaged in indiscriminate felling of trees on the pretext of development in various parts of the country;

(b) if so, the details in this regard; (c) whether some agencies have cut trees in Delhi recently without any prior permission from the

Ministry; and (d) if so, the action taken against such agencies to further check on the cutting of trees in Delhi and other

parts of the country? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) & (b) No reports regarding indiscriminate felling of trees on the pretext of development by various agencies have been received in the Ministry. However, sporadic incidents of tree felling do take place wherein action is taken by the respective State /UT Governments as per the law. (c) & (d) The Ministry has received no such reports, wherein the agencies concerned have cut trees in Delhi without permission of the Competent Authority. Permission for cutting of trees is given by the respective State/UT Governments. RECONSTITUTION OF BODY FOR REGULATING GM CROPS 5th March, 2013 RSQ * 101 Shri Sanjay Raut


(a) whether Government will reconstitute the body to regulate Genetically Modified (GM) crops; (b) whether applications seeking nod for field trials of GM crops are piling up ;

(c) whether Supreme Court’s appointed technical expert committee called for a ten year ban on GM crops; and

(d) if so, the reasons for Government’s decision to reconstitute the body?. MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN THE REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 101 BY SHRI SANJAY RAUT REGARDING RECONSTITUTION OF BODY FOR REGULATING GM CROPS DUE FOR REPLY ON 05.3.2013 (a) Yes Sir; there is a proposal to establish an independent ‘Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India (BRAI)’ for the regulation of GM Crops through an Act of Parliament, and the BRAI Bill has been submitted to Lok Sabha Secretariat for introduction by the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology. Currently, the regulation of GM crops is being carried out by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) a statutory body constituted by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) notified under the 'Rules for Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms/Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells 1989', of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

(b) Permission for conduct of confined Biosafety Research Level (BRL) trials by the GEAC is subject to recommendations from the Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) constituted under Rules 1989 and ‘No Objection’ from the State Government. At present about 70 applications recommended by RCGM are pending consideration of the GEAC. In addition about 50 applications for BRL trials approved by the GEAC are awaiting consent of the State Government.

(c) & d) As per the directions of Hon’ble Supreme Court Order dated 10.5.2012, in Writ Petition (Civil) No. 260/2005 of Aruna Rodrigues & Others vs Union of India & Others a Technical Expert Committee (TEC) was constituted to address issues related to genetically modified (GM) crop field trials. The TEC in its interim report has recommended (i) 10-year moratorium on field trials of Bt food crops used for human consumption on the basis of review of Bt cotton and Bt brinjal biosafety data; (ii) Ban on field trials of herbicide tolerant (HT) crops till an independent committee of experts has examined the potential impact of the HT technology including livelihood issues; and (iii) Ban on GM crop field trials in the centers of origin and centers of diversity. The other key recommendations of the TEC include need assessment, strengthening and restructuring of the current regulatory system, reassessment of the biosafety data on Bt cotton and other data that is generated by all field trials; ensuring there is no conflict of interest; a ban on outsourcing or subcontracting field trials; designation of sites for field trials, and requirement of preliminary bio-safety tests etc; as a prerequisite to all GM crop field trials. The Union of India has not accepted the recommendations on the ground that the interim report does not address the terms of reference (TOR) and has not only exceeded the mandate assigned to TEC but are also outside the scope of the Writ Petition itself. A Joint Affidavit in this regard has been filed by the Ministry of Agriculture on behalf of Union of India. The Hon’ble Supreme Court vide Order dated 9.11.2012 has directed the TEC to consider the objections filed by all respondents, interested parties and the Union of India and submit its report within six weeks. The TEC has sought extension of time till March, 2013 for submission of the final report. The matter is now listed for 1.4.2013. UID NUMBERS FOR TIGERS 5th March, 2013 RSQ *112 SMT T. RATNA BAI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the National Tiger Conservation Authority has come forward to allot Unique Identification

(UID) numbers to tigers in the reserve forests of the country; and (b) if so, the details and the present status thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b):- A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *112 ON UID NUMBERS FOR TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 05.03.2013. (a) & (b) Based on a decision taken in the 7th meeting of the National Tiger Conservation Authority in October, 2011, detailed protocol for establishing a National Repository of Camera Trap Photographs of Tigers (NRCTPT) has been firmed up through a committee comprising of, interalia, experts and scientists, which has been communicated to tiger States. The said protocol has provision for providing an ID to each individual tiger. Action has been taken for building up the NRCTPT with the 635 camera trap pictures of individual tigers collected during the 2010 country level status assessment of tigers, done in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India and tiger States, with updation in an ongoing manner. REDUCTION IN CARBON-DI-OXIDE EMISSION 5th March, 2013 RSQ *115 SHRI AMBETH RAJAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the steps taken by Government to reduce the Green House Gas emission have reduced the level of carbon-di-oxide emission; and

(b) if so, the details of carbon-di-oxide emission during the last three years? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. *** Statement referred to in reply to Part (a) and (b) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 115 by Shri Ambeth Rajan regarding Reduction in carbon-di-oxide emission (a) and (b) The Government has taken various steps to address climate change including, inter alia, announcing a voluntary goal of reducing the emissions intensity of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2020 in comparison with 2005 level. The Government prepares inventory of Green House Gases (GHG) including carbon-di-oxide (CO2)emissions periodically at such intervals as mandated by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. As per GHG inventory published by the Government, CO2 emissions in the country from all sectors were 1221.76 million tons in 2007as compared with 1024.773 Million tons in 2000 and 793.49 million tons in 1994. However, the emissions in CO2 equivalent terms per unit of GDP have decreased by 15.8% over the period from 1994to 2007.

AIR POLLUTION IN THE CITIES 5th March, 2013 RSQ *117 DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether air pollution is one of the major causes of deaths in the country; (b) if so, whether the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards have

completely failed to put a check on the increasing air pollution; (c) if so, whether the Central Government has since formulated any plan at a national level to curb air

pollution in cities; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d): A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 117 DUE FOR REPLY ON 05.03.2013 RAISED BY DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE REGARDING ‘AIR POLLUTION IN THE CITIES’. (a) The Health Effects Institute (HEI), a non profit corporation registered in USA has presented a paper entitled ‘Outdoor Air Pollution Among Top Global Health Risks in 2010 in a workshop in Delhi on 13th February, 2013. The said paper envisaged that air pollution is the fifth biggest killer in India. (b) The main reasons of air pollution in the country are vehicular exhaust emissions, re-suspension of roadside dust, industries, thermal power plants, cement plants, operation of gensets, construction activities, household activities, agricultural practices apart from shipping, aviation and natural sources. The Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Board / Pollution Control Committee for UTs are implementing the environmental laws so as to prevent and control air pollution in the country. (c) & (d): The Government have taken various steps including formulation of action plans to contain air pollution in cities and which, inter alia, include:

i) Notification of emission standards for various categories of industries, under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986;

ii) Implementation of action plans for improvement of the ambient air quality in 16 cities apart from Delhi; iii) Introduction of cleaner fuel (B.S. III/IV compliant) as per the Auto Fuel Policy; iv) Introduction of gaseous fuel in select cities and towns; v) Sale and registration of B.S. IV compliant passenger cars in selected metropolitan cities and towns apart

from National Capital Region; vi) Use of beneficiated coal for coal based thermal power plants; vii) Enforcement of ‘Pollution Under Control (PUC)’ certificate scheme to check exhaust emissions from in-

use vehicles; viii) Implementation of stringent emission norms for generator sets; ix) Source Apportionment Studies undertaken in six metro cities; x) Implementation of the recommendations of the Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environment

Protection (CREP) for Seventeen Categories of air polluting industries; xi) Strengthening of National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Network; xii) Inspection and monitoring of air polluting industries for compliance of the emission norms; and

xiii) Strengthening of public transport including establishment of metro rail and mono rail in a few select metropolitan cities.

BIO-SAFETY INSTITUTE TO TEST HARMFUL EFFECT OF GM CROPS 5th March, 2013 RSQ 776 SHRI D. RAJA: SHRI M.P ACHUTHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state?

(a) whether Government has a proposal to establish an independent Bio-safety Institute to test harmful effect of GM crops being imported by multi-national seed companies such as Monsanto;

(b) if so, the details thereof and; (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c): There is no proposal to establish an independent Bio-safety institute to test the harmful effects of GM crops that are imported or developed in the country as there are several reputed institutions in India that have the capability of conducting biosafety assessment. However, there is a proposal to establish an independent ‘Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India (BRAI)’ for the regulation of GM Crops through an Act of Parliament, to promote the safe and responsible use of modern biotechnology by enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of regulatory procedures including the testing of GM crops for harmful effect, if any. The BRAI Bill has been submitted to Lok Sabha Secretariat for introduction by the Department of Biotechnology. UNNATURAL DEATHS OF ELEPHANTS 5th March, 2013 RSQ 777 SMT RENUBALA PRADHAN: SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that a number of elephants deaths are occurring by coming in contact of low level electrical wires and train accidents on railway tracks in Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and Assam;

(b) whether Government has any statistics of the elephant death; (c) the details thereof during the last three years, State-wise; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor and steps taken to prevent such casualties?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) It is a fact that elephant deaths have occurred due to electrocution and train accidents on railway tracks in Odisha & Assam and due to electrocution in Uttar Pradesh. The details of last three years are given below. Year Assam Odisha Uttar Pradesh Train Hit Electrocution Train Hit Electrocution Train Hit Electrocution

2009 - 10 7 6 Nil 9 Nil Nil 2010 – 11 5 5 Nil 18 Nil Nil 2011 – 12 7 9 2 13 Nil 3

(b)(c)&(d) The details of elephant deaths due to various reasons state wise for the last three years related to train accidents, poaching and poisoning have been given respectively in Annexue I, II & III. For prevention of elephant deaths due to train accidents, electrocution and poisoning, following measures have been taken:- 1. General Advisories to prevent train accidents involving elephants have been issued jointly with Ministry of Railways. These are as following:

(a) Clearance of Vegetation on the sides of Railway tracks. (b) Underpasses/overpasses across the Railway track to allow elephants to escape. (c) Signage boards to pre-warn the Train Drivers. (d) Sensitising programmes for Train Drivers/Guards/Station Masters. (e) Engagement of Elephant trackers by MoEF and communication with Station Masters. (f) To keep Railway track free from food water that attracts elephants.

2. The Chief Wildlife Wardens of elephant range states have been instructed time to time to keep vigil and take appropriate measures to contain the deaths of elephants due to poaching, poisoning etc.

ANNEXURE- I Annexure referred to in reply to part (b) to (d) of the Rajya Sabha Admitted Unstarred Question No. 777 due for answer on 05.03.2013 regarding ‘Unnatural deaths of elephants’ ELEPHANT CASUALTIES IN TRAIN ACCIDENTS

State 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 (upto

31.1.2013) Assam 7 5 7 0 West Bengal 1 12 3 4 Tamil Nadu 1 0 0 0 Jharkhand 0 1 1 0 Kerala 3 0 0 0 Odisha 0 0 2 10 Tripura 0 1 0 0 Uttrakhand 0 0 0 2 Uttar Pradesh 0 0 0 0 Total 12 19 13 16

ANNEXURE – II

Annexure referred to in reply to part (b) to (d) of the Rajya Sabha Admitted Unstarred Question No. 777 due for answer on 05.03.2013 regarding ‘Unnatural deaths of elephants’ ELEPHANT DEATH DUE TO POACHING

State 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Andhra Pradesh 0 0 0 Arunachal Pradesh 0 0 0 Assam 4 2 0 West Bengal 1 0 0 Uttarakhand 0 0 0

Uttar Pradesh 0 0 0 Tamil Nadu 3 0 1 Jharkhand 0 0 1 Kerala 4 0 0 Orissa 3 17 8 Karnataka 3 7 3 Nagaland 0 0 0 Meghalaya 0 0 0 Total 18 26 13

ANNEXURE III

Annexure referred to in reply to part (b) to (d) of the Rajya Sabha Admitted Unstarred Question No. 777 due for answer on 05.03.2013 regarding ‘Unnatural deaths of elephants’ ELEPHANT DEATH DUE TO POISONING

State 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Arunachal Pradesh

0 0 0

Assam 0 0 0 Karnataka 0 0 0 Kerala 0 0 0 Meghalaya 0 0 0 Orissa 0 0 0 Tripura 0 0 0 West Bengal 1 0 0 Jharkhand 0 0 1 Uttarakhand 0 0 0 Total 01 00 01

WILD ANIMALS KILLED BY SPEEDY TRAINS 5th March, 2013 RSQ 778 SHRI SUKHENDU SEKHAR ROY: SHRI Y.S. CHOWDARY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of Elephants and other wild animals run over by speeding trains between North Bengal and North-East from 2010 till date;

(b) the details of measures taken by Government to prevent such accidental deaths of wild animals; (c) whether Government is contemplating change of railway routes from the natural corridors of wild

elephants; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) 20 Elephants have died due to train hits between North Bengal and North-East/Assam border from 2010 till date. The number of other wild animals run over by trains in this region is not collated in the Ministry.

(b) The Government has taken following measures to prevent accidental deaths of wild animals, especially elephants:

(i) Ministry of Railways in consultation with the Ministry of Environment and Forests had issued a general advisory to all the railway zones suggesting measures to prevent collision of trains with wild elephants. A permanent coordination team has been constituted jointly by the Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Environment and Forests to share information and monitor the implementation of the advisory on quarterly basis.

(ii) Ministry of Railways has also been requested to regulate the speed of trains in vulnerable sections. (iii) Nodal officers have been designated in the vulnerable sections to facilitate quick sharing of information. (iv) The Ministry of Environment and Forests sanctioned an amount of Rs 2.42 crores and released Rs 1.93

crores to the Government of West Bengal during FY 2010-11 for creation of fences and ramps at several places within Mahananda and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuaries.

(v) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has been releasing financial assistance to the State Government of West Bengal under Centrally Sponsored Scheme-‘Project Elephant’ for construction of RCC watch towers, provision of heavy duty solar lights, high beam search lights, engagement of personnel to man watch towers, and clearing of bushes on the sides of railway tracks for improving visibility to monitor the movement of elephants near the railway tracks with the objective of preventing collision of elephants with trains.

(c) & (d) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has requested the Ministry of Railways to strengthen the alternative railway track from New Jalpaiguri to North-Eastern Region via Falakata so that heavy movement of trains on the Siliguri-Alipurduar route may be avoided, especially during the nights. DEATH DUE TO AIR POLLUTION IN THE COUNTRY 5th March, 2013 RSQ 779 SMT MAYA SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether a foreign institution, in a study, has found air pollution at an alarming level in many cities in the country including Delhi and it has been stated therein that 6.2 lakh people in India die unnatural deaths due to this pollution and this has been stated as the fifth biggest reason of death; and

(b) the names of cities in the country where air pollution is at an alarming level and the details of measures taken to resolve it?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Health Effects Institute, an USA based non-governmental organization, has published a report “Outdoor air pollution among top global health risks in 2010- risks especially high in India and other developing countries of Asia”, which, inter alia, stated that outdoor air pollution contributed to over 620,000 premature deaths and nearly 18 million healthy years of life lost in India in 2010. According to some epidemiological studies, health effects such as manifestation of respiratory and cardiovascular aliments etc. could be associated with air pollution. No statistical data is available regarding the number of persons suffering from respiratory disorders caused due to pollution. Steps taken by the Government to control environmental pollution include formulation of a comprehensive policy for abatement of pollution, supply of improved auto-fuel, tightening of vehicular and industrial emission norms, mandatory environmental clearance for specified industries, management of municipal, hazardous & bio-medical wastes, promotion of cleaner technologies, strengthening the network of air and water quality monitoring stations, assessment of pollution load, source apportionment studies, preparation and implementation of action plans for major cities & critically polluted areas, public awareness etc.

PURIFICATION OF SEWAGE WATER 5th March, 2013 RSQ 780 SHRI D. BANDYOPADHYAY: Will the MINISTER of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of a unique natural process of purifying sewage waters by air and sunshine practiced by a fishermen cooperative known as the Mudiali Fishermen Cooperative Society which treat 25 million litres of sewage waters on a wet land leased from the Kolkata Port Trust and produce fish worth Rs. 60 lakhs a year for the sustenance and livelihood of the members of the cooperative; and

(b) if so, whether Government would consider replicating this worthwhile experiment in other metropolitan and municipal area or converting sewage water for livelihood purpose?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Institute of Environmental Studies and Wetland Management, Department of Environment, Govt. of West Bengal has confirmed about the process being followed for sewage treatment in West Bengal, especially in East Kolkata Wetlands, a Ramsar site. (b) Pond based treatment technology is included in the “Compendium on Sewage Treatment Technologies” published by the Ministry. ILLEGAL SAND MINING IN KARNATAKA 5th March, 2013 RSQ 781 DR. PRABHAKAR KORE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has taken note of increasing incidents of illegal sand mining in the country particularly in Karnataka;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the number of illegal sand mining cases booked in the country including Karnataka for the last three

years, State-wise and year-wise; (d) whether Government has taken any deterrent actions against illegal miners to curb illegal sand mining

in the country; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) to (e) :Sand being a minor mineral for which all powers of regulation are empowered to the State Governments concerned under section 15 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act 1957, the respective State Governments are required to frame rules for sand mining. In terms of section 23C of the MMDR Act 1957, the State Governments have been empowered to make rules for preventing illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals. Since the State Governments deal with cases of

illegal mining, specific details are not centrally maintained at the Government of India level. However, number of cases of illegal mining detected in Karnataka State during 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 were 4692, 6476 and 6691 respectively as reported by the State Government. All Sand mining activities require prior environment clearance. This is with a view to ensuring that the mining is done in a scientific and sustainable manner. FAILURE OF GANGA AND YAMUNA ACTION PLANS 5th March, 2013 RSQ 782 SHRI AVINASH PANDE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of the failure of the Ganga Action Plan (GAP) and Yamuna Action Plan (YAP);

(b) whether there have been any new efforts or initiatives by Government with regard to conservation of these two rivers in specific and other rivers in general;

(c) If so, the details thereof; and (d) If not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Ganga Action Plan(GAP) is being implemented since 1985 for undertaking pollution abatement activities in the identified polluted stretches of river Ganga through implementation of works like interception and diversion of sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, low cost sanitation works, crematoria work etc. Total Sewage Treatment capacity of 1091 million liters per day (mld) has been created under the GAP. With the pollution abatement works completed so far, despite significant increase in urbanization, industrialization and growth in population in cities along the banks of river Ganga, the water quality in terms of BOD (Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand) values reported to have improved as compared to the pre-GAP water quality on major monitoring locations. However, the levels of bacterial contamination in terms of fecal coliform are reported to be exceeding the maximum permissible limit at a number of locations. Similarly for addressing the problem of pollution in river Yamuna, financial assistance is provided to UP, Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) in a phased manner since 1993. Under Phase-I and II of YAP, 40 sewage treatment plants with a total capacity of 902.25 million litres per day, have been completed in 21 towns of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi. The water quality of river Yamuna has not shown the desired improvement owing to a large gap between the demand and availability of sewage treatment capacity and lack of fresh water in the river. (b), (c) & (d) In light of experience gained in implementation of the river action plans since 1985, the conservation strategy was reviewed by the Government. Accordingly, in February, 2009, the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) has been constituted as an empowered, planning financing, monitoring and coordinating authority with the objective to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic river basin approach. The Yamuna Action Plan Phase - III project for Delhi has been approved by the Ministry in December, 2011 at an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore with loan assistance from Japan International Cooperation Agency. Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry in July, 2012 at an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana which are located on upstream of Wazirabad in Delhi.

Further, for formulation of comprehensive pollution abatement projects for rivers/lakes a detailed guidelines has been prepared by the Ministry for benefit of all stakeholders. POLLUTION LEVEL IN THE MAJOR RIVERS OF THE COUNTRY 5th March, 2013 RSQ 784 DR. T.N. SEEMA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the pollution level of water in the major rivers of the country is very high resulting in rise in water borne diseases and deaths therefrom;

(b) if so, the steps being taken by Government to save the rivers from pollution along with the funds spent thereon during the last two years and the current year;

(c) the list of industries which cause maximum pollution to the rivers in the country; and (d) the steps taken regarding banning/regulation of these industries by Government during last two years

including current year? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The pollution load on rivers has increased over the years due to rapid urbanization and industrialization as also due to abstraction of water for irrigation, drinking, industrial use, power etc. Disposal of untreated/partially treated sewage generated in the cities and towns are also a major source of pollution in the river. Direct use of bacterial contaminated river water may cause water borne diseases. However, no conclusive reports are available. (b) The river conservation programme started with the launching of the Ganga Action Plan (GAP) in 1985 in the identified polluted stretches of the river Ganga. The Plan was expanded to include other major rivers under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) on a cost sharing basis between the Centre and the States. Various pollution abatement schemes taken up under the Plan, inter-alia, include interception and diversion of raw sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, creation of low cost sanitation facilities, setting up of electric/improved wood crematoria and river front development. During the last two years and current year, Rs.1089 crore has been released by the Ministry to various State implementing agencies for execution of the pollution abatement schemes. In the process, sewage treatment capacity of 4704 mld has been created. (c) & (d) The grossly polluting Industries, which discharge effluents containing load of Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) more than 100 kg/day include tanneries, paper and pulp, sugar and distilleries etc. The effluent discharge standards have been notified and action has been taken against the non-complying industries under the Water (Prevention and Control) Act, 1974 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. SPECIAL SCHEMES FOR ASHTAMUDI AND SASTHAMCOTTAI LAKES IN KERALA 5th March, 2013 RSQ 785 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has received any request from the State Government of Kerala for projects to free rivers and backwaters from pollution;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether any special scheme for Ashtamudi Lake and Sasthamcottai Lake has been sanctioned or

pending before Government; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A number of projects for abatement of pollution of rivers in Kerala have been received from Government of Kerala which include, Karamana, Killi & Pamba rivers. As per the study conducted by the Central Pollution Control Board for identification of polluted Indian rivers, Karamana and Killi rivers do not fall under the 150 polluted river stretches in 121 rivers in the country. The Action Plan for abatement of pollution of river Pamba was sanctioned under National River Conservation Plan in May, 2003 for an amount of Rs.18.45 crore on a 70:30 cost sharing basis between the Central and the State Government. The project components include Sewerage & Sewage Treatment, Bathing Ghat, Community Toilets, Public Participation etc. Out of the Central share of Rs.12.92 crore, an amount of Rs. 2.78 crore has been released to the State Government for implementation of the project. (c) & (d) The Ministry has identified Ashtamudi and Sasthamkotta Lakes in Kerala for conservation and management. These lakes are also designated as Ramsar sites under the International Ramsar Convention, 1971 and notified under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 for regulating these wetlands for preventing their use beyond carrying capacity. The Ministry has so far provided financial assistance to the Government of Kerala to the tune of Rs 97.192 lakh for Ashtamudi and Rs 53.08 lakh for Sasthamkotta Lake, for undertaking various conservation activities. OUTCOME OF DOHA CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE 2012 5th March, 2013 RSQ 786 SHRI Y.S.CHOWDARY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the Outcome of Doha Climate change Conference held on 8th December, 2012; (b) whether India raised its concern to protect its interests ; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the details of the decisions taken in the Conference ?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) The key outcomes of the eighteenth Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Doha, Qatar from November 26 to December 8, 2012 include amendment of the Kyoto Protocol to implement the second commitment period for emissions reductions by developed country parties under the Protocol; successful conclusion of the work under the Bali Action Plan (BAP); and planning further work under the Durban Platform (DP) for Enhanced Action for post-2020 arrangements agreed to at Durban last year. The Conference addressed all the three issues and came out with a package, which balanced the interests and obligations of various countries. At the Doha Conference, India pursued the strategy of working together with the Group of77 & China in order to protect the overall interests of developing countries. During the Conference, India raised the issues of equity in climate change related actions and commitments, technology-related Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) and unilateral measures taken by some countries in the name of climate change and succeeded in having these issues

included in the ongoing work of various bodies of the Convention. India successfully defended the nature of its voluntary domestic goal of reducing emissions intensity of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 20-25% by 2020 in comparison with 2005 level and ensured that agriculture, a sensitive sector of our economy, was not included in the mitigation work programme proposed to be launched at the global level. COAL PROJECTS PENDING FOR ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE 5th March, 2013 RSQ 787 SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that 229 coal projects are pending with her Ministry for clearance; (b) the details of reasons behind delay in giving approval to above projects, project-wise; (c) the number of projects belonging to Coal India Ltd.(CIL) pending for clearance (d) whether it is also a fact that due to delay in giving approval CIL is not able to meet its production

target;and (e) the details of efforts the Ministry is making to quicken the process of clearance?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) No, Sir. (b) to (e) Prior environmental clearance (EC) has been made mandatory for certain developmental projects, including coal mining, through Environment Impact Assessment notification issued on 14th September, 2006 under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) receives cases of coal mining projects, including those from Coal India Ltd., for prior environmental clearance. Delays occur due to various reasons which include delay in submission of information by the project proponent, holding public hearing, public complaints, court cases, forestry clearances, etc. Steps taken by the Ministry to fast track the EC process include continuous monitoring of status of pending projects, regular meetings of Expert Appraisal Committee, etc. IMPACT OF SHORTAGE OF FOREST OFFICIALS ON MONITORING SYSTEM 5th March, 2013 RSQ 788 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of Environment and Forests be pleased to state:

(a) Whether it is a fact that two thousand vacancies in IFS and several other posts in the Central Government on the other hand several posts in the State Governments of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Assam, Himachal Pradesh are also lying vacant for long time due to which smuggling, poaching are on increase in these days; and

(b) If so, whether there is any co-ordination or monitoring system to protect the forests and wild animals in the country?


(a) & (b) No Sir, There is no acute shortage of the officers in the Indian Forest Service. The position in respect of officers of Indian Forest Service as on 01.01.2013 is at Annexure-A. The information in respect of vacant posts in the State Government of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Assam and Himachal Pradesh is at Annexure-B. There is no problem in co-ordination or monitoring to protect the forest and wild animals in the country as the protection work is also supported by workers engaged on work charge basis, people’s participation through Joint Forest Management Committees and Eco-Development Committee, etc. In the State of Jharkhand and Himachal Pradesh, the appointment process to fill up the vacant posts has already been started.

ANNEXURE – A STATEMENT SHOWING CADRE WISE INFORMATION IN RESPECT OF THE INDIAN FOREST SERVICE (Total Cadre Strength and In-Position) As on 01/01/2013

S. No CADRE Cadre Strength In-Position

Direct Recruit

Posts (RR)

Promotion Posts (SFS)

Total Strength

Direct Recruit Posts (RR)

Promotion Posts (SFS )

Total In-position

1 AGMUT 128 55 183 116 39 155 2 ANDHRA PRADESH 105 44 149 105 33 138 3 ASSAM-MEGHALAYA 100 42 142 86 24 110 4 BIHAR 41 17 58 40 10 50 5 CHHATISGARH 92 39 131 92 38 130 6 GUJARAT 84 35 119 78 30 108 7 HARYANA 49 20 69 48 9 57 8 HIMACHAL PRADESH 80 34 114 75 31 106 9 JAMMU & KASHMIR 58 48 106 53 39 92 10 JHARKHAND 100 42 142 88 37 125 11 KARNATAKA 115 49 164 112 39 151 12 KERALA 72 30 102 67 23 90 13 MADHYA PRADESH 207 89 296 205 87 292 14 MAHARASHTRA 144 62 206 126 46 172 15 MANIPUR-TRIPURA 81 34 115 68 35 103 16 NAGALAND 30 12 42 23 7 30 17 ORISSA 99 42 141 91 21 112 18 PUNJAB 41 17 58 41 10 51 19 RAJASTHAN 102 43 145 89 7 96 20 SIKKIM 21 9 30 21 7 28 21 TAMIL NADU 103 44 147 97 22 119 22 UTTAR PRADESH 152 65 217 143 30 173 23 UTTRAKHAND 75 32 107 75 15 90 24 WEST BENGAL 88 38 126 76 29 105 TOTAL 2167 942 3109 2015 668 2683*

* In addition, Cadre Allocation of 78 IFS probationers of 2011 Examination is in progress. * The Result of IFS Examination, 2012 for filling up of 85 posts in the IFS has recently been published by he UPSC and other formalities are being completed

Annexure-B S. No. Name of the State Cadre No. of Vacancies

ACF/SFS Forest Ranger

Deputy Ranger

Forster Gr. I

Forester Gr. II

Forest Guard

1. Assam 15 48 63 141 72 546 2. Chhattisgarh 11 158 213 08 31 3. Himachal Pradesh 12 76 60 - 463 4. Jharkhand 16 143 - 331 2689 5. Odisha 53 175 140 757 804 TOTAL 107 600 476 1088 3933

* In the state of Jharkhand and Himachal Pradesh the appointment process has already been started.

DAMAGE OF CROPS BY INDUSTRIAL EFFLUENCE 5th March, 2013 RSQ 789 SMT KANIMOZHI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has studied the impact of dyeing units on local crops in the Erode-Namakkal region of Tamil Nadu;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether there has been a substantial loss of crops due to the mismanaged discharge of industrial

effluents; and (d) if so, the steps taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) As reported by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), it has not conducted any study about

the impact of dyeing units in the Erode- Namakkal region of Tamil Nadu. Also there is no study report available with the TNPCB regarding the substantial loss of crops.

(d) The steps taken by the TNPCB are as follows:

i. The dyeing units in the Erode and Namakkal District of Tamil Nadu have been directed to install Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) system;

ii. The units without treatment systems are issued directions for closure and stoppage of power supply. IMPACT OF DRYNARIA MALLIS ON LIFE SAVING TREES IN HIMALAYAN REGION 5th March, 2013 RSQ 790 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the fern named Drynaria Mallis Bail proving detrimental for the Banj, Buransh, Kail, Kharsu and other trees found in the jungles of the country including Uttarakhand thereby leading to drying up of species of the trees;

(b) if so, the percentage of infestation of this parasite in different district of the country; State-wise; (c) whether Forest Research Institute, Dehradun has submitted any report to Government in this regard; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether her Ministry has chalked out any action plan to protect the life saving trees of the Himalayan

region; and (f) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The fern Drynaria mollis is not a parasite but an auto-trophic plant which makes its own food through photosynthesis. Botanical Survey of India (BSI) has clarified that it does not have harmful effect on the host plant and removal of the said plant may disturb the ecology of the area. In some mature trees of the Banj, Burans, Kharsu

in association with Drynaria mollis in Uttarakhand, signs of drying have been observed. However, the conifers are less affected. It may be due to several inconclusive reasons like anthropogenic pressures namely excessive lopping; climate change and other factors. (c) & (d) The Forest Research Institute, Dehradun has not submitted any report in this regard to the Government of India. (e) & (f) Government of India and the State Governments have schemes for forest protection in the States including in the Himalayan region. Ministry of Environment and Forests provides Grants-in-aid for protection of forests under Intensification of Forest Management Scheme and other forest management schemes to the State Governments to supplement their efforts for forest protection. The life saving trees such as Banj, Burasnsh, Kail, Sharsu etc. are conserved and protected on the basis of prescriptions under the management plan duly approved by the Government of India. MEASURES FOR CONTROLLING AIR POLLUTION 5th March, 2013 RSQ 791 SHRI VIVEK GUPTA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government is aware of the Global Burden of Disease Report which has identified 'Air pollution

amongst the top killers in South Asia and India'; (b) whether the Ministry has initiated any measure to control of the level of air pollution in the country; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) Health Effects Institute, an USA based non-governmental organization, has published a report “Outdoor air pollution among top global health risks in 2010- risks especially high in India and other developing countries of Asia”, which, inter alia, stated that outdoor air pollution contributed to over 620,000 premature deaths and nearly 18 million healthy years of life lost in India in 2010. According to some epidemiological studies, health effects such as manifestation of respiratory and cardiovascular aliments etc. could be associated with air pollution. No statistical data is available regarding the number of persons suffering from respiratory disorders caused due to pollution. Steps taken by the Government to control environmental pollution include formulation of a comprehensive policy for abatement of pollution, supply of improved auto-fuel, tightening of vehicular and industrial emission norms, mandatory environmental clearance for specified industries, management of municipal, hazardous & bio-medical wastes, promotion of cleaner technologies, strengthening the network of air and water quality monitoring stations, assessment of pollution load, source apportionment studies, preparation and implementation of action plans for major cities & critically polluted areas, public awareness etc. IMPACT OF HUMAN INTERFERENCE ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY OF HIMALAYAN REGION 5th March, 2013 RSQ 792 SHRI G.N. RATANPURI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government intends to carry out a detailed scientific survey to access the impact of increased

human interference on the environment and ecology of Himalayas between Baltal and Pahalgam; (b) whether Government intends to enforce Nitesh Sengupta Committee recommendations on regulation

of human activity in this region; (c) whether Government is aware of immediate and long term effects of unregulated activity on the fragile

ecology of this region; and (d) whether there are any plans to address the concern of environmentalists in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): The following reply to the question is based on the inputs received from Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) which is a body set up by the J&K state legislature through J&K Shri Amarnathji Shrine Act, 2000 for the better management of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra, upgradation of facilities for holy pilgrims and the matters connected therewith and incidental thereto. (a) The arrangements including measures for protection of environment in the Amarnath Yatra Area (which includes the route between Baltal and Pahalgam) being provided for the pilgrimage and those to be provided for future Yatras were considered by the Supreme Court (SC) in WP (Civil) 284/2012. The SC constituted a Special High Powered Committee (SHPC) to visit the Yatra Area, examine various issues and submit its suggestions in the form of a report. In its judgment delivered on 13th December, 2012, the SC treated the SHPC Report as a part of its judgment and directed that its recommendations be implemented by all concerned. In line with the recommendations of the SHPC, the following surveys/studies are proposed to be carried out to assess the impact of human activities on the environment and ecology of Himalayas between Baltal and Pahalgam.

(i). State Pollution Control Board(SPCB) would depute special teams to collect, analyse and monitor water quality in Sindh and Lidder Rivers before the start of Yatra 2013 during the Yatra, and after the conclusion of the Yatra, and share the findings along with actionable suggestions with SASB and the State Government.

(ii). SPCB, along with officials of the State Govt and Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) shall monitor the functioning of Sewage Treatment Plants at the Baltal and Nunwan (Pahalgam) Base Camps and also conduct studies regarding management and disposal of solid wastes.

(iii). Whenever mandated and required under the relevant statute, timely conduct of Environment Impact Assessment Studies would be carried out.

(b) In 1996, the Dr. Nitish K. Sen Gupta Committee had recommended that there should not be more than 10,000 Yatris on the Chandanwari-Holy Cave track on any day. This number was arrived at considering only the Chandanwari- Holy Cave route as the development of the non-traditional Baltal route commenced essentially after the 1996 tragedy. Apparently, the aforesaid number was estimated based on the then carrying capacity of the tract, facilities/infrastructure available enroute the Holy Cave, and measures being followed to regulate the Yatra. For Yatra 2012, the Shrine Board had approved that maximum of 7,500 pilgrims per day per route would be registered for the Yatra. The aforesaid limit does not include about 1400-1600 Yatris per day who may travel by helicopter services ( from Baltal and Pahalgam to Panjtarni) for their pilgrimage subject to the weather conditions and the operation of heli services. For Yatra 2013, the Shrine Board has approved that the ceiling number of Yatri to be registered shall be the same as the aforesaid ceiling as was fixed for Yatra 2012. SASB fixed the aforesaid limit after consultation with the State Government and taking into view:

(i) The present carrying capacity of the Baltal and Pahalgam tracks; (ii) Facilities/infrastructure available enroute Holy Cave (particularly the present sanitation, communication

and weather forecast facilities being provided in the Yatra area during the Yatra period) and access-control measures being enforced to regulate the Yatra; and

(iii) The actual number of Yatris who had actually travelled on either of the two tracks per day, in the past Yatras.

(c) & (d) To mitigate the immediate and long-term effects of unregulated activities on the fragile ecology of the region, a fixed number of Yatris are being registered for the Yatra. With a view to exercising effective control on the movement of the pilgrims, Access Control Gates, which are manned by senior police officers, have been constructed at Domel (Baltal) and Chandanwari (Pahalgam) to ensure that unregistered Yatris/unauthorized persons are not able to enter the Yatra area. For Yatra 2013, keeping in view the recommendations of the SHPC, a detailed action plan has been drawn by SASB to preserve the environment of the Yatra area. ASSISTANCE TO AP UNDER IDWLH 5th March, 2013 RSQ 793 SHRI C. M. RAMESH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the amount released by the Central Government to the State Government of Andhra Pradesh under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme, namely Integrated Development of Wild Life Habitat (IDWLH) during the last three years; and

(b) the quantum of funds allocated for the State of Andhra Pradesh under the scheme for the current Five Year Plan?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a The details of the amount released by the Ministry to the State Government of Andhra Pradesh under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ during the last three years is as below:

Year Amount released (Rs. in lakhs) 2009-10 102.02 2010-11 64.341 2011-12 71.50

(b) Tentative allocation of funds under the scheme to State Governments including the State of Andhra Pradesh is done annually on the basis of budget allocated to the scheme during the relevant financial year. Since the State-wise allocation of funds under the scheme is not done on Five Year Plan basis, no such allocation has been made for the State of Andhra Pradesh for the current Five Year Plan. SUDDEN DEATH OF BLACKBUCKS IN RAJASTHAN ZOO 5th March, 2013 RSQ 794 DR. YOGENDRA P. TRIVEDI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether 16 blackbucks died suddenly in a zoo in Rajasthan; (b) if so, when this incident took place and the reasons therefor; (c) whether Government has taken any action against people responsible for it; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. In Kota Zoo, Rajasthan 16 numbers of blackbucks died in the night of 19th and 20th December 2012. According to the diagnostic report submitted by Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, the death of blackbucks was due to high concentration of nitrate/nitrite in the fodder. (c),(d)&(e) The Chief Wildlife Warden, Rajasthan has constituted an enquiry in the matter vide order No. 3863 dated 21.12.2012 by the Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Kota. KANERA IRRIGATION PROJECT 5th March, 2013 RSQ 795 DR. NAJMA A. HEPTULLA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) Whether the State Government of Madhya Pradesh has reiterated its appeal to the Central Government for sanction to Kanera irrigation project;

(b) if so, the details thereof, along with the current status of the proposal; and (c) the time by which said project is likely to get clearance from the Central Government?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c ) The Government of Madhya Pradesh has submitted a proposal seeking permission for their Kanera lift irrigation project in Chambal Sanctuary for extraction of water from Chambal River. The proposal was considered by the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) in its meeting held on 25.4.2011. The Standing Committee, in the light of the findings of the study conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), did not recommend the proposal for according clearance. IT PROJECT FOR CONNECTING WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES 5th March, 2013 RSQ 796 SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government proposes to introduce an Information Technology (IT) project for inter-connecting all the wildlife sanctuaries in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the steps taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Presently there is no such proposal under the consideration of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. (b) & (c) Does not arise.

MITIGATING HARMFUL EFFECTS OF MINING ON ENVIRONMENT 5th March, 2013 RSQ 797 SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of steps taken for building improved environmental management capacity in order to mitigate the harmful effects of mining on environment;

(b) whether any efforts have been made to adopt and supply accepted international practices in developing such environmental management capacity; and

(c) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) to (c): As per Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, projects of mining of minerals as stated in the schedule require prior environment clearance. The mining projects are appraised by Expert Appraisal Committee constituted under the aforesaid notification. The terms of reference are prescribed to the project proponents which inter-alia lay emphasis on environment impact assessment and development of management plans, which take into consideration the mitigative measures to be adopted while under taking mining activity. Public consultations are held as per the procedure prescribed under EIA Notification, 2006 by which the concerns of the local affected persons and others who have plausible stake in the environment impacts of the project or activity are ascertained with a view to taking into account all the material concerns in the project design as appropriate. Environment impact assessment, environment management plan and public consultation are important elements of the environment clearance mechanism. MAN-ANIMAL CONFLICT IN GUWAHATI 5th March, 2013 RSQ 798 SHRI BHUBANESWAR KALITA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether any study has been conducted to understand the reason for man-animal conflict in Guwahati; (b) the number of Leopards and Royal Bengal Tigers and Bears killed in man-animal conflict and the

number of arrests made and the quantum of punishment given; (c) whether it is a fact that the killers of the animals have mutilated the body of the dead animals and

severed body parts and nails etc. in front of media; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the action taken in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Ministry of Environment and Forests has not conducted any study to understand the reason for man-animal conflict in Guwahati. (b) The details of the numbers of leopards and bears killed in the country in man-animal conflict and number of arrests made and the quantum of punishment given have not been collated in the Ministry. The year-wise mortality

of Royal Bengal Tigers killed in the country during last three years and during the current year due to different reasons, as reported by States, are as below:

Year Natural and other causes (Animals)


(Animals)

Cases under scrutiny

Total (Animals)

2010 25 28 - 53 2011 40 16 - 56 2012 29 32 27 88

2013(as on 27.2.2013) 2 2 16 20 The number of Royal Bengal tigers killed in man-animal conflict has not been collated separately. (c) In a few instances reports have appeared in the media that after the killing of wild animals in conflict cases, their corpses were mutilated, burnt or mistreated by mobs. (d) The details of such instances have not been collated in the Ministry. Ministry has, however, issued instructions to the Chief Wildlife Wardens of States to take strict action against the offenders involved in such killing or brutality against wild animals in accordance with the provisions contained under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. POACHING OF RHINOS IN ASSAM 5th March, 2013 RSQ 799 SMT NAZNIN FARUQUE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the condition of Kaziranga National Parks in Assam is not good; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; (c) whether it is also a fact that the killing of Rhinos has yet not stopped; (d) if so, the reasons therefor; and (e) the steps being taken by Government to stop killing of Rhinos and development of Kaziranga National

Park? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b), (c), (d) & (e) Poaching of rhinos in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve is a cause for concern. Central assistance under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger is provided to the said reserve, interalia, for development, protection and antipoaching activities. The steps taken by the State Government to protect and preserve one horned rhinos in Assam is at Annexure-I.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b), (c), (d) & (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 799 ON POACHING OF RHINOS IN ASSAM DUE FOR REPLY ON 05.03.2013. The steps taken by the State Government to protect and preserve one horned rhinos in Assam is as under:-

1. Government of Assam has granted the power to use firearms to forest officers at all levels for protection of the forest and wildlife in the State under section 197 of the Criminal Procedure Code vide State Notification No. FRW.22/2009/5 dated 14.7.2012.

Immunity from prosecution without the prior sanction from the State Government has also been granted to all the forest officers in the State. This has given a big morale boost to the staff engaged in the protection of the rhino and other wildlife species.

2. Government of Assam has enhanced the maximum punishment to the poachers up to life imprisonment and a minimum fine of Rs. 75,000 through the amendment of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 vide ‘The Wildlife (Protection) (Assam Amendment) Act, 2009’. The wildlife related offences have been made cognizable and non-bailable through this amendment by the State Government.

3. Two new battalions of the Assam Forest Protection Force have been raised for protection of the forest and wildlife including the rhino bearing areas of the State.

4. Sufficient numbers of antipoaching camps have been constructed in all rhino bearing areas of the State. 5. Infrastructure viz. road network, patrolling path, antipoaching camps, vehicles, boats, departmental

elephants etc. have been improved/enhanced over the years. 6. Armed home guards and local youths have been deployed in the rhino bearing areas of the State to augment

the strength of the field staff. 7. Sophisticated arms (Self Loading Rifles) have been deployed in the rhino bearing areas of the State to

match the weapons used by the poachers. 8. Management interventions for protection and maintenance of the rhino habitat have been taken up on

regular basis. 9. Close coordination with the civil and police administration is being maintained in the field for efficient

tackling of the poachers. 10. Programmes on education and awareness are being regularly organized in the field involving local people

and civil society. 11. The State Government of Assam is taking adequate steps to ensure the protection of rhinoceros in the State.

Most of the one horned rhinoceros habitats have been declared as Tiger Reserves, thereby enhancing the management effectiveness through a focused scheme including increasing budgetary allocation, protection machinery. The measures taken for protection of rhino population have resulted in a sustained increase in their population in the State, as per the following census figures received from the State Government:

Year Estimated population (Nos.) 2006 2006 2009 2201 2012 2505

MODIFICATION IN FOREST CLEARANCE NORMS 5th March, 2013 RSQ 800 DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry has modified the forest clearance norms of mining projects; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the quantum of additional revenue estimated to be generated from this move of Government?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) ( a) & (b) The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) vide letter dated 01.02.2013 informed the all State/ Union Territory Governments as below:

(i). Henceforth, in case of mining leases having forest land in part or in full, approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (FC Act) for diversion of entire forest land located within the mining lease shall be obtained before execution/renewal of the lease under the Mines and Minerals (Development and

Regulation) Act, 1957. Applications seeking prior approval under FC Act for diversion of the entire forest land (and not a portion thereof) located within the area proposed to be assigned on lease shall only be accepted by the Nodal Officers in the concerned State/ Union Territory Governments.

(ii). All State/Union Territory Governments shall within a period of three months submit to the MoEF details of all such mines where approval under the FC Act for diversion of only a part of forest land has either been obtained or is presently under examination in the State/Central Government. The State Governments in all such cases shall request the concerned user agencies to submit application to obtain approval under the FC Act for diversion of the remaining forest land located within the mining lease. Mining in such leases after two years will be allowed only if the user agency either obtains approval under the FC Act for the entire forest land located within the mining lease or surrenders such forest land for which approval under FC Act has not been obtained and execute a revised mining lease for the reduced lease area.

(c) Approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of the forest areas located within the mining leases for which such approval has not been accorded so, far, will be subject to fulfilment of inter-alia the conditions that the State Governments concerned shall realise from the concerned user agencies the cost of creation and maintenance of compensatory afforestation, Net Present Value of forest land diverted, cost of implementation of wildlife conservation plan (wherever required) etc. The amount likely to be realised from the user agencies will depend on the area of additional forest land for which approval under the FC Act is accorded by the MoEF. Exact amount likely to be realised from such user agencies therefore, may not be assessed at this stage. REDUCING THE FOREST AREA IN ODISHA, KARNATAKA, ANDHRA PRADESH AND JHARKHAND 5th March, 2013 RSQ 801 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether illegal stone quarry mohrrum quarry are posing danger to elephants corridor and reducing the forest area in Odisha, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh; and

(b) whether Government has given any direction to State Governments to stop all auction of quarry insider

forest? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) There are no reports of illegal stone quarry and mohrrum quarry in forest and elephant corridor areas in Odisha, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. (b) The Ministry of Environment and Forests (FC Division) has not issued any direction to states government to stop all auction of quarry inside forest. DAMAGE TO CROPS BY NILGAIS 5th March, 2013 RSQ 802 SHRI ALI ANWAR ANSARI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether ‘Nilgai’ is found in ample number in plains of a number of States including Bihar and Uttar Pradesh;

(b) whether crops are being destroyed by this animal on a large scale; and (c) the measures being taken by Government to control the wastage of crops?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has been receiving reports regarding depredation of agricultural crops by Nilgais from various States including Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. (c) The Government has adopted a multi-pronged approach to control the loss of crops due to depredation by ‘Nilgais’. This includes the undertaking of following important measures:

(i) The Central Government provides financial assistance to State/Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ for management of wildlife and its habitats in the country. The activities supported under the scheme inter alia include construction/erection of physical barriers, such as barbed wire fence, solar powered electric fence, bio-fencing using cactus, boundary walls etc. to prevent the entry of wild animals into crop fields.

(ii) The Chief Wildlife Wardens have been empowered under Section 11 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to permit hunting of wild animals specified in Schedule II, Schedule III or Schedule IV, on being satisfied that the animal has become dangerous to human life or to property (including standing crops on any land).

(iii) An Advisory for management of ‘Nilgais’ for protecting the crops has been circulated on 7th March 2012 to the State Governments of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

(iv) A pilot project on solar fencing has been undertaken by the State Farms Corporation of India Ltd. under National Food Security Mission – pulses.

EXPANSION OF BRANCHES OF PANDIT GOVIND BALLABH PANT INSTITUTE OF HIMALAYAN ENVIRONMENT 5th March, 2013 RSQ 803 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) Whether the Ministry has chalked out a plan to open branches of Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development situated in Katarmal (Kosi) Distt. Almora, in other hilly States of the Country for studying the changes in environment caused by the geographical changes in Himalayan region.

(b) If not, whether the Ministry would consider to expand it in future; and (c) If so, the places where its branches are proposed to be opened?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, with its HQs at Kosi-Katarmal, Almora, has four regional units located at Srinagar, Garhwal (Uttarakhand), Kullu (Himachal Pradesh), Pangthang (Sikkim) and Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh). There is no plan to open any new unit in the near future. However, a field station is proposed to be started at Leh to look into cold desert areas in the 12th Five Year Plan.

(b) & (C) Expansion of regional units in the future will be considered depending upon the requirement and availability of resources. ONE TIME GRANT FOR RAISING SPECIAL TIGER PROTECTION FORCE 5th March, 2013 RSQ 804 DR. CHANDAN MITRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government had given one time grant a few years back to the National Tiger Conservation Authority for raising Special Tiger Protection Force in sensitive tiger reserves across the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the progress made so far in the matter; (c) the reasons for non-utilisation of this grant so far; and (d) the remedial or corrective measures taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Based on the one time grant of Rs. 50.00 crore provided to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for raising, arming and deploying a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF), the States of Karnataka and Maharashtra have already created and deployed the STPF. The State-wise details of STPF along with the composition are at Annexure-I. (c) & (d) Action has been initiated by the States of Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Rajasthan for raising, arming and deploying the STPF. ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 804 ON ONE TIME GRANT FOR RAISING SPECIAL TIGER PROTECTION FORCE DUE FOR REPLY ON 05.03.2013. State-wise details of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) along with the composition (As reported by States)

Sl. No.

Name of posts Name of Tiger Reserve and State Pench Tiger Reserve,

Maharashtra Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra

Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Karnataka

1. Range Forest Officer 2 3 - 2. Forester 4 18 14 3. Guards 86 77 63 4. Watchers - - 27

CONSERVATION OF HORNBILL BIRDS 5th March, 2013 RSQ 805 SMT KANIMOZHI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry has conducted a census of the various Hornbill birds found across the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Ministry had also undertaken any steps to save the Narcondam Hornbills found in the

Andamans from extinction; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) No such census has been conducted by the Ministry. (c), (d) & (e) The Ministry has undertaken the following steps to save the Narcondam Hornbills found in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands from extinction:

(i) Narcondam Hornbill (Rhyticeros (undulatus) narcondami) has been listed under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, thereby affording it highest degree of protection under the Act. The hunting, and disturbance of the nests and eggs of Narcondam Hornbill and trade in the bird, its eggs or any article made from its body parts is prohibited under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

(ii) The habitat of Narcondam Hornbill in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, viz., Narcondam Islands has been notified as a Sanctuary under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE TO INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS 5th March, 2013 RSQ 806 SHRI VIVEK GUPTA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that all infrastructure development projects in the country has to get environmental clearance from the Ministry;

(b) the number of such infrastructure projects whose environmental clearance were rejected by the Ministry during the period 2010-12 State-wise;

(c) whether it is also a fact that some projects are exempted from getting environmental clearance; and (d) if so, the details of such projects which are exempted from getting clearance, State-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Under the provisions of EIA Notification 2006, as amended in December 2009, projects or activities at 7 (a) to 7(i) i.e. ‘Physical Infrastructure including Environmental Services’ and 8(a) & 8(b) i.e. ‘Building and Construction and Township and Area Development Projects’ under the Schedule of the Notification shall require prior environmental clearance from the concerned regulatory authority at Central level in the Ministry of Environment and Forests for matters falling under Category ‘A’ and the respective State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) at State level for matters falling under Category ‘B’ of the Schedule. (b) Five infrastructure projects, including one each from the States of Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand were rejected during the period 2010-12. (c) & (d) Projects which are not listed in the Schedule of the Notification do not require environmental clearance. LOSS OF FOREST LAND IN ANDHRA PRADESH

5th March, 2013 RSQ 807 SHRI C. M. RAMESH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that there has been a loss of 281 square kilometre forest land in Andhra Pradesh; and

(b) if so, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) & (b) As per India State of Forest Report 2011 published by Forest Survey of India, there is a loss of 281 square kilometer of forest cover in the State of Andhra Pradesh. The reasons for the loss of forest cover are management interventions like harvesting of short rotation crops followed by new regeneration / plantations, forest clearance in some encroached areas. DESTRUCTION OF WILD LIFE HABITATS DUE TO MINING ACTIVITIES 12th March, 2013 RSQ *201 SMT MAYA SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to State.

(a) whether it is a fact that many wild life habitats are being destroyed due to mining activities in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof including the special efforts being taken by Government to minimise this; (c) whether the Ministry has any data on the endangered flora and fauna in the areas adjoining the

large mining projects in the country; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) if not the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO *201 REGARDING ‘DESTRUCTION OF WILD LIFE HABITATS DUE TO MINING ACTIVITIES’ BY SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH DUE FOR REPLY ON 12.03.2013. (a) and (b) As mining activity involves breaking up of lands in the mining areas, it has the potential to cause damage, when such activity and the ancillary infrastructure for collection, storage and transport are located in forests and wild life habitats. Specific details of particular wildlife habitats facing destruction or damage on account of mining activities are recorded and appraised at the time of appraisal of the proposals for mining as and when required for environmental clearance, forest clearance and consideration by the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife, as per the statutory requirement.

The Government has taken the following measures to regulate mining and minimise the environmental impacts:

(i). Mining activities are subject to the environmental clearance process under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006. For environmental appraisal of mining projects including coal mining, Expert Appraisal Committees are in place, which inter alia seek relevant information on impact of wild life habitats.

(ii). In case the proposed mining is located within forest area, the activity is also subject to appraisal by the Forest Advisory Committee set up under the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980.

(iii). In case the proposed mining area is located within a National Park or Wild Life Sanctuary, the proposal is also required to be considered by the National Board for Wild Life (NBWL)/through its Standing Committee as per the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

(iv). For ensuring a safety zone around the National Parks and Sanctuaries, Government has also introduced a system of notification of ecologically important area around National Parks and Sanctuaries as Ecologically Sensitive Zones (ESZ), in which activities impacting the wild life habitats can be further appraised and regulated. The ESZs are notified under section 3 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

(c), (d) and (e) Specific data on endangered flora and fauna in the areas adjoining to the big mining areas are not maintained in the Ministry. However, during the process of appraisal of mining proposals, all the details related to presence of endangered flora and fauna are taken into consideration. CLOSURE OF POLLUTING FACTORIES IN KANPUR 12th March, 2013 RSQ *206 SHRI RASHEED MASOOD: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of factories operating in Kanpur facing closure by the orders of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB);

(b) whether these factories have been shut down; and (c) the action taken against the factories which are still operating in violation of the rules of the CPCB?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHAREGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARAS (a) to (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARED QUESTION NO.206 FOR 12.03.2013 REGARDING CLOSURE OF POLLUTING FACTORIES IN KANPUR BY SHRI RASHEED MASOOD. (a) to (c) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) under the programme of National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) is carrying out surprise inspections of industries located in the catchment area of river Ganga with a view to verify their compliance to pollution control norms. Amongst the industries located in command area of river Ganga, tanneries have been identified as one of the highly polluting sectors. There are about 350 tanneries in Kanpur. The Central Pollution Control Board has carried out inspection of 174 of these tanneries during August -November 2012, out of which 73 tanneries were found not complying norms, 60 units were found meeting the standards and 41 were closed. The status of compliance and actions taken to prevent pollution from tanneries are as follows:

(i). Out of 60 compliant tanneries, 15 tanneries have adopted dry processing operations. 45 tanneries have taken adequate steps and are reported to be complying with the prescribed norms.

(ii). Based on the severity of non-compliance, out of 73 non-compliant tanneries, 35 tanneries have been asked to show cause under Section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 as to why they should not be closed due to their non-compliance (Annexure-I). In case of 30 tanneries, CPCB issued confirmed technical directions to take affirmative action to meet with pollution control norms (Annexure-II). In respect of remaining 8 tanneries, action has been initiated (Annexure-III).

ANNEXURE-I

REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) to (c) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.206 DUE FOR REPLY ON 12-3-2013 REGARDING CLOSURE OF POLLUTING FACTORIES IN KANPUR RAISED BY SHRI RASHEED MASOOD 35 non-complying tanneries in Kanpur- Show Cause Notice under Sec 5 of EP Act issued

1) M/s Aijaz Tanners, 406/377 Asharafabad, Jajmau, Kanpur 2) M/s Anwar Ahmed Ki Tannery, 175/158, 4C, Bhuriyaghat, Jajmau, Kanpur 3) M/s FarhatJavi Ki Tannery 175/158 B-4 BurhiaghatJajmau, Kanpur 4) M/s Gaush Leather Finisher, Bhalla State, Jajmau, Kanpur 5) M/s Gujrat Tanners, 104/90 Sanjay Nagar, Wajidpur, Jajmau, Kanpur 6) M/s H K Tanning, 150 feet road, Jajmau, Kanpur 7) M/s Habib Leather Finishers 150 feet Road, Jajmau, Kanpur 8) M/s Haque Tanners 97-A Wazidpur,Jajmau,Kanpur 9) M/s Karamat Tanning Industries, 783, Sanjay Nagar, Kanpur 10) M/s Hamid Leather Finishers, 150 ft Road, Jajmau, Kanpur 11) M/s Leather World, 184-A (1), Budhiaghat, Jajmau, Kanpur 12) M/s Mash International Pvt. Ltd, 83/69, Hindustan Compound, Jajmau, Kanpur 13) M/s Merit Leather Finishers, Sanjay Nagar, Jajmau, Kanpur 14) M/s M H Tanners erstwhile M/s HaziBadde Tannery, MakkuSayeedKaBhatta, Jajmau, Kanpur 15) M/s Renet Eastern Exports, Plot no. 2/B, Sarai Ram Rai, Jajmau, Kanpur 16) M/s Rider Tanning Industries, 242,Gajjupurva, Jajmau, Kanpur 17) M/s Rizwan Tanners, 104/90-A (22), Sanjay Nagar, Jajmau, Kanpur 18) M/s Shams Leather Finishers, 150 ft road, Jajmau, Kanpur. 19) M/s Super Leather Finishers, 603 Sanjay Nagar, Jajmau, Kanpur 20) M/s Aman Tannery,127-Iqbal Street, Jajmau-Kanpur 21) M/s Aslam Tannery, 42 K, Bhuriyaghat, Jajmau, Dist: Kanpur 22) M/s Bharat Tanning Industry, 150 Ft. Road, Jajmau, Dist: Kanpur 23) M/s Nafees Leather Finishers (M/s FidaHussain Tannery), 24-A-175/158 A,BudhhighatJajmau,Kanpur 24) M/s Feroz Tanners, Unit-I. Jajmau, Dist: Kanpur 25) M/s Feroz Tanners, Unit-II. Road, Jajmau, Dist: Kanpur 26) M/s Indian Tanning Industry, 150 Feet Road, Jajmau, Dist: Kanpur 27) M/s Khalid Tanners (M/s Sajid Tanners), 86 A, Wajidpur, Jajmau, Kanpur 28) M/s MMZ Tanners (M/s Sartaj Tanners), 104/90 A, Wajidpur, Jajmau, Kanpur 29) M/s Saliq Leather Finishers, Plot No. 53, 150 Feet Road, Jajmau, Kanpur 30) M/s Supreme Tanning Industry, 104/90 (A-7), 150 Feet Road, Jajmau, Kanpur 31) M/s Swan Tanning Industry, 199,205,207, Gajjupurwa, Jajmau, Kanpur 32) M/s Akhlak Tanners, 104/99 Gajjupurwa, Jajmau, Kanpur 33) M/s Leather Tend, Jajmau, Kanpur 34) M/s Saud tanners, 12/9, GajjuPurwa, Jajmau, Kanpur. 35) M/s Globe Industry, 37 B, 150 Feet Road, , Jajmau, Kanpur

ANNEXURE-II

REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) to (c) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.206 DUE FOR REPLY ON 12-3-2013 REGARDING CLOSURE OF POLLUTING FACTORIES IN KANPUR RAISED BY SHRI RASHEED MASOOD

30 non-complying tanneries in Kanpur - Directions under Sec 5 of EP Act issued

1) M/s A.P.F. Tanners (ShabnamTanneres), 70/59, Gajjupurwa, Jajmau, Kanpur 2) M/s Abdullah Tannery Pvt. Ltd., 150 Feet Road, , Jajmau, Kanpur 3) M/s Ajij Leather Finishers, 171/155 BudhiyaGhat, Jajmau, Kanpur 4) M/s Alig International, 150 feet road Jajmau, Kanpur 5) M/s Aman Enterprises, Seethalabazaar, Jajmau, Kanpur 6) M/s Everest Export 175/158 B-3 BurhiaghatJajmau, Kanpur 7) M/s Everest Tanners, 184-C-2 BurhiaghatJajmau, Kanpur 8) M/s Farhan Tanners,172/156, BurhiaghatJajmau, Kanpur 9) M/s Gem Tanners, 112 A/3, WajidpurJajmau, Kanpur 10) M/s Habib Tannery Pvt. Ltd, 15-B, 150 Feet Road, Jajmau, Kanpur 11) M/s Jajmau leather finishers, Bihari Tannery, Jajmau, Kanpur 12) M/s Jamal Industries, 712,Gajjupurwa Jajmau, Kanpur 13) M/s Kamal Enterprises, Bhalla Estate, Jajmau, Kanpur 14) M/s Khan Leather Finishers,MakkarSahidKaBhatta, Jajmau, Kanpur 15) M/s MI Saddel Work, 24 C, WajidpurJajmau, Kanpur 16) M/s M M Leather Finishers, 109/90, WajidpurJajmau, Kanpur 17) M/s Makhdoom Tanning Industries, 103/89, Jajmau, Kanpur 18) M/s Meraj Tanning Industries, 108/87, WajidpurJajmau, Kanpur 19) Old Name - M/s Javed Tannery New Name-M/s New Javed Tannery 480/379, Gajjupurwa, Kanpur 20) M/s Reliance Tanning Industries, 487-488,150 Ft. road, Jajmau, Kanpur 21) M/s Sajid Tanners, Plot No. 361-1 D(30 B-2), Gajjupurwa, Jajmau, Kanpur 22) M/s Star Tannery, 19, Sarai Ram Rai, Jajmau, Kanpur 23) M/s Sultan Tanners, Jajmau, Kanpur 24) M/s Sunrise Tannery, 150 feet road, Jajmau, Kanpur 25) M/s Ahmad International, 367 & 368-A, Sanjay Nagar, Jajmau- Kanpur-208010 26) M/s Bablu Enterprises, 90/76, Eidagh Road, Jajmau, Dist: Kanpur 27) M/s Best Tanning Industry, 150 Ft. Road, Jajmau, Dist: Kanpur 28) M/s Finished Leather Job Work, Jajmau, Dist: Kanpur 29) M/s Imperial Leather Finishers, 336, Chabileypurwa, Jajmau, Kanpur 30) M/s Shariq Tanners, 786, Chabilepurwa, Jajmau, Dist: Kanpur

ANNEXURE-III

REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) to (c) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.206 DUE FOR REPLY ON 12-3-2013 REGARDING CLOSURE OF POLLUTING FACTORIES IN KANPUR RAISED BY SHRI RASHEED MASOOD 8 non-complying tanneries in Kanpur – Action initiated

1) M/s Sarfaraz Tanners, Erstwhile-Mushtaque & Sons., Bangalighat, Jajmau, Kanpur. 2) M/s Naaz Leather Finishers, 14-A,150 Ft. Road, Jajmau, Kanpur 3) M/s Nisar Sons (Erstwhile, Lari Leather Finishers), 166, Gajjupurwa, Jajmau, Kanpur 4) M/s Roshan Leather Industries, 9-10, Gajjupurwa, Jajmau, Kanpur 5) M/s Top Tanners, 406/377-A, Gajjupurwa, Asharfabad, Jajmau, Kanpur 6) M/s Greater Arafat Tanners (P) Ltd. 12-C, New Jajmau, Road, Kanpur 7) M/s Islam tanners, 93/79-C, 150 Ft. Road, Jajmau, Kanpur 8) M/s Navratan Industries, 532,150 Ft. Road, Jajmau, Kanpur

PROTECTION OF WILD LIFE IN ASSAM 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1551

SMT NAZNIN FARUQUE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the number of rhino and other animals have been reported dead and killed in Kaziranga National Park in the last two years;

(b) the details of cause of their deaths, natural or any other manner; and (c) whether any action has been taken by Government to punish the culprits?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The details of mortality of rhinoceros and some major wild animals in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, as reported by the State, are at Annexure-I. (c) The State has taken action in this regard. Since the day-to-day management of Tiger Reserves is done by States, details of action taken against culprits are not collated at Government of India level.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1551 ON PROTECTION OF WILD LIFE IN ASSAM DUE FOR REPLY ON 12.03.2013. Details of mortality of rhinoceros and some major wild animals in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, during the last two years, as reported by the State Year Death of rhinos Death of elephants Death of tigers Death of leopards Natural Poaching Natural Poaching Natural Poaching Natural Poaching 2011 67 3 18 1 6 0 0 0 2012 109 11 22 0 4 0 0 0 POLLUTION IN YAMUNA RIVER 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1552 SHRI V.HANUMANTHA RAO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

a) whether it is a fact that due to pollution by industries near Sonepat and Panipat the Yamuna river is getting polluted heavily, making people living in Delhi to face the ill-effect; and

b) if so, the steps being taken by Government to control the Yamuna river pollution? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) a) The Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has reported that all chemical industries situated in Sonipat and Panipat region have provided the treatment plants for treatment of their industrial effluents, and no unit is discharging its effluent directly into the river Yamuna. Also as per information provided by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), no chemical industry is discharging waste water directly into river Yamuna. The CPCB and HSPCB are monitoring jointly the river Yamuna at Sonipat and Panipat. The data analysis of this monitoring reveals that the water of river Yamuna at Palla which is downstream of Sonepat and up stream of Delhi is well within prescribed standards.

b) To supplement the efforts of State Government in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna, Government of India is implementing Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) with assistance from Japan International Cooperation Agency, Government of Japan in phase manner. A total of 296 schemes have been complete in 21 towns of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi and 942.25 million liters per day of sewage treatment capacity has been created so far under YAP. Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry in July, 2012 at an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore from the Central Grant for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna at Sonipat and Panipat in Haryana. IMPACT OF GLOBAL WARMING ON THE HIMALAYAS 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1553 SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether there has been any study conducted on the impact of Global Warming on the Himalayas; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether there has been a reduction of forest cover depletion over the last three years; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the impact of global warming on forest depletion?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A study to assess the impact of climate change on four sectors in four regions of India including Himalayan Region has been undertaken and a report titled “Climate Change and India: 4X4 Assessment - A Sectoral and Regional Analysis for 2030s” was published in 2010 by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. As per the report, the mean annual temperature and precipitation for the Himalayan region is projected to increase by 2030 with respect to base year 1970. Drought severity in the region is likely to increase despite extreme precipitation in some areas of the region. Malaria transmission is also likely to increase. (c) & (d) As per the Forest of Survey India report, 2011, total forest cover in the country has increased by 0.11 Million hectares from 60.09 Million hectares in 2007 to 69.20 Million hectare in 2011. NEW GUIDELINES EASING CLEARANCE FOR ROAD PROJECTS 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1554 SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI: SMT GUNDU SUDHARANI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether several national highways development projects are held up for want of clearance from the Ministry;

(b) if so, the details thereof State-wise and project-wise, along with reasons for delay in months/ years; and (c) whether the Ministry circulated new guidelines to States easing clearance for road projects, if so, the

reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) ( a) & (b) Presently, 30 proposals seeking environment clearance and 10 proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for national highways projects are under examination in the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). State-wise details of the same are annexed. Delay in grant of approvals is mainly due to non-receipt of requisite information/documents from the project proponent and State/ Union Territory Governments concerned. (c) The MoEF received representation from various Ministries and user agencies to relax para 4.4 and para 2.2 (iii) of the guidelines issued under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 in respect of linear projects involving use of forest land falling in a portion of their length falling in several Forest Divisions/States. The MoEF after examination of the matter, vide letter dated 07.01.2013 informed the all State/ Union Territory Governments as below:

1. The following shall be added in para 4.4 of the guidelines for diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980:

“In the case of linear projects involving use of forest land falling in a portion of their length, pending consideration of approval under the Act, work on non-forest land may only be executed upto such point (to be selected by the user agency) on either side of forest land if it is explicitly certified by the user agency that in case approval under the Act for diversion of forest land is declined, it is technically feasible to execute the project along an alternate alignment without involving diversion of forest land. Details of all such stretches along with alternate alignments identified to bypass the forest land should be explicitly provided in the proposal seeking approval under the Act. It is specifically clarified in terms of the Lafarge judgment that commencement of work on non forest land will not confer any right on the user agency with regard to grant of approval under the Act. The projects involving widening/ upgradation of existing roads will only be allowed to be executed on the entire stretch located in non- forest land, provided the user agency submits an undertaking that execution of work on non-forest land shall not be cited as a reason for grant of approval under the Act and in case approval under the Act for diversion of forest land is declined, width of the portion of road falling in the forest land will be maintained at its existing level. This will also be incorporated as specific condition of the Environment Clearance. This clarification will not apply to the roads falling in Protected Areas and the eco-sensitive zones around Protected Areas.”

2. Similarly, para 2.2 (iii) of the said guidelines shall read as below: “The proposals for linear projects such as roads, railway line, transmission lines etc. may be processed in their entirety. However, to facilitate phased preparation and processing, the proposals seeking prior approval of the Central Government under the Act for such projects may be prepared Forest Division/ state-wise starting from one end from which work on the project is proposed to be initiated. However, a map indicating alignment of the entire project, highlighting the portions passing through forest land, along with a write up on salient features of the entire project and details of approvals already obtained and/ or sought under the Act for other sections of the project, if any, shall be provided in each of such proposals. Wherever the project passes through the forest land, the user agency shall indicate an alternate alignment which may be used if approval under the Act is declined. This will be a specific condition of the Environment Clearance to the project. Provided further that to prevent occurrence of fait accompli situations, proposals prepared Forest Division/ state-wise shall be considered only if it is certified by the user agency that in case approval under the Act for diversion of forest land required for the remaining portions/stretches falling in other Forest Divisions/states is declined, it is technically feasible to execute the project along an alternate alignment without involving diversion of forest land. Details of alignments identified to bypass the forest land in these stretches should explicitly be provided in the proposal seeking approval under the Act. In case of proposals involving widening/ upgradation of existing roads, it shall be certified by the user agency that grant of approval under the Act to the extant proposal shall not be cited as a reason for grant of approval under the Act for diversion of forest land required for other stretches of the project and in case approval under the Act for

diversion of forest land is declined, width of the portion of the road falling in the forest land will be maintained at its existing level. This will be a specific condition in the Environment Clearance to be accorded to the project, and this clarification will not apply to roads located within the Protected Areas and eco-sensitive zones around the Protected Areas where impacts upon wildlife have also to be considered.” Similarly, the MoEF received representations from various Ministries to exempt projects like construction of roads, canals, laying of pipelines/optical fibres and transmission lines etc. where linear diversion of forest land in several villages are involved, from the requirement of obtaining consent of Gram Sabha, as stipulated in the MoEF’s letter dated 3.8.2009 wherein the MoEF issued detailed guidelines on submission of evidences for having initiated and completed the process of settlement of rights under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. The MoEF, after examination of the matter and also considering the views of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs on the matter, informed the all State/Union Territory Governments, vide letter dated 05.02.2013, that the proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for projects like construction of roads, canals, laying of pipelines/ optical fibres and transmission lines etc. where linear diversion of use of forest land in several villages are involved, unless recognised rights of primitive tribal groups/ pre-agricultural communities are being affected, are exempted from the requirement of obtaining consent of the concerned Gram Sabha(s) as stipulated in clause (c) read with clause (b), (e) and (f) in second para of the MoEF’s said letter dated 03.08.2009.

ANNEXURE ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1554 BY SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI AND SHRIMATI GUNDU SUDHARANI REGARDING ‘NEW GUIDELINES EASING CLEARANCE FOR ROAD PROJECTS’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 12.03.2013. A. Details of proposals seeking environment clearance for National Highways projects presently under examination in the Ministry of Environment and Forests

Sl. No. Details of Proposal Andhra Pradesh

1 EC for widening and rehabilitation of existing 2-lane to 4-lane of Maharashtra/ Karnataka Border to Sangareddy Section of NH-9 from km 348.800 to km 493.000 in the State of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Bihar 1 Environment Clearance for 4-laning of Mihania – Ara section (km 0/000 to km 116.760) of NH-30 in the state of Bihar

by M/s Bihar State Road Development Corporation Ltd. (F. NO. 10-33/2012-IA.III]. Himachal Pradesh

1 Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing carriageway to 2/4 lane of Bilaspur-Ner Chowk section of NH-21 from Km 134.500 to km 186.500 in the State of Himachal Pradesh

2 Environmental Clearance for widening and Improvement of existing 2-lane to 4-lane of Kiratpur-Bilaspur Section of NH-21 in the State of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh

Karnataka 1 Environment Clearance for widening and improvement of the existing carriageway to 4-laning of Hoskote to Dobbaspet

section of NH-207 in the State of Karnataka by M/s. NHAI 2 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & upgradation of existing Carriageway to 4-lane divided carriageway of Hospet –

Chitradurga section of NH-13 in the State Karnataka by M/s NHAI Madhya Pradesh

1 Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing 2-lane to 4-lane in the section of Obedullahaganj – Hoshangabad – Itarsi – Betul of NH-69 in the State of Madhya Pradesh by M/s NHAI

2 Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing 2 lane to 4 lane of NH-7 and construction of Panagar Bypass including new Connectivity Link Road (NH) from NH-7 to NH-12A in the State of Madhya Pradesh by M/s NHAI

3 Environmental Clearance for Gwalior-Shivpuri Section of NH-3 in the State of MP by M/s NHAI 4 Environmental Clearance for 4-Lane with paved shoulder of the section Km 316/10 to Km 423 of NH-12 (Bhopal to Bioara),

State of Madhya Pradesh by M/s Madhya Pradesh Road Development Corporation Limited Maharashtra

1 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & upgradation of 2-lane carriageway to 4-lane of Khed Sinnar section of NH-50 from km 42.000 to km 177.000 in the State of Maharashtra by M/s NHAI

2 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation and up-gradation of existing 2-lane to 4-lane from Solapur (km 255.00) to Maharashtra/ Karnataka Border (Km 348.800) section of NH-9 in the State of Maharashtra by M/s NHAI

3 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & upgaradation of existing Carriageway 4-lanning from Amravati to Maharashtra/ Gujarat Border section from Km. 166.000 to km 649.000 of NH-6 in the State of Maharashtra by NHAI

Punjab 1 Environmental Clearance for 4 laning from Km 0.000 to 50.000 Section Zirkapur to Southern Sirhind bye pass of NH-64 in

Punjab State by M/s Executive Engineer, PWD, B&R, Patiala Rajasthan

1 Environmental Clearance for Nagaur - Bikaner road from Km 161/0 to Km. 278/0 of NH-89 by Superintendent Engineer, PWD, NH-Circle, Bikaner, Rajasthan

2 Environmental Clearance for 2 lane with paved shoulder of Ajmer - Nagaur Section km 0/0 to 161/0 of NH-89 by M/s Superintending Engineer, PWD, NH Circle, Bikaner

3 Environmental Clearance for 4 - laning of NH-79 from Chittorgarh to Neemuch (MP Border) and 2- laning of NH-113 from Nimbahera to Pratapgarh in the State of Rajasthan by M/s Public Works Department, NH Circle, Kota, Rajasthan

4 Environmental Clearance for Bikaner – Suratgarh section from km 0/0 to km 173/0 of NH-15 by M/s Superintending Engineer, PWD, NH Circle, Bikaner

5 Environmental Clearance for widening and up-gradation of existing carriageway 2-lane with paved shoulders in Jhalawar - Biaora section of NH-12 in the State of Rajasthan by M/s NHAI

6 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation and up-gradation to 2-lane with paved shoulder at Partapgarh - Padi section of NH-113 (from km 80.000 to km 180.000) in the State of Rajasthan by M/s NHAI

7 Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing 2-lane to 4/6 lane of Gomati Chauraha to Udaipur of NH-8 in the State of Rajasthan by M/s NHAI

8 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & up-gradation of existing carriageway of Kishangarh–Udaipur-Ahmedabad section of NH-79A, NH-79, NH-76 and NH-8 for km. 0.830 on NH-79 at Kishangarh and ends near Ahmedabad km 509.259 on NH-8 including Udaipur Bypass in the States of Rajasthan and Gujarat by M/s NHAI

9 Environmental Clearance for widening and upgradation of existing carriageway to 2-lane with paved shoulders in Padi -Dahod Section of NH-113 in the State of Gujarat and Rajasthan by M/s NHAI

10 Environment Clearance for 4-laning of Beawar - Baghana section from km. 58.245 to Km 147.000 on NH-8 in the State of Rajasthan by M/s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, D.C.M Ajmer Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan. (F.No.10-42/2012-IA-III).

11 Environment Clearance for Sikar- Bikaner section of NH-11 (from km 340.188 to km 557.775 via kikar bypass) and Bikaner by pass from km 553.869 of NH-11 to km 267.325 of NH-89 in the State of Rajasthan by SE, PWD [F.No. 10-128/2011-IA-III]

Uttar Pradesh 1 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation and up-gradation of the existing 2-lane to 4/6-laning of Sultanpur-Varanasi section

of NH-56 in the State of Uttar Pradesh by M/s NHAI 2 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & up-gradation of existing 4-lane to 6-lane form Agra (199.660) to Etawah Bypass

(Km 323.525) section of NH-2 including Firozabad Bypass in the State of U.P. by M/s NHAI 3 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & Upgradation of existing 2 lane to 2/4 with paved shoulder from Indo/Nepal

Border to Varanasi Section of NH-233 in the State of Uttar Pradesh from Km 0.000 to km 298.740 by M/s NHAI 4 Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & up-gradation of 2-line with paved shoulders of NH-231 (Raebareli to Jounpur)

and NH-232 (Ambedkar Nagar to Banda) in the State Uttar Pradesh by M/s NHAI 5 Environmental Clearance for widening and rehabilitation of NH Sections in the State of UP under package ‘IVB’ Unnao -

Lalganj Section of NH-232A by M/s NHAI B. Details of proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for national highways projects presently under examination in the Ministry of Environment and Forests

Sl. No. Details of Proposal Bihar

1 Diversion of 36.206 ha of forest land for widening of Anishabad-Naubatpur-Bikram-Arwal-Aurangabad- Hariharganj road section from 17.10 Km. to 18.80 Km. And 35.20 Km. to 154.625 Km. (NH-98) in Bihar

Gujarat 1 Diversion of 173.39 ha of protected forest land for widening & strengthening of NH-8 Ratanpur boarder to Ahmedabad

(km 388/200 to km 590/000), by Project Director, PIU, NHAI, Himmat Nagar in district of Gujarat Haryana

1 Diversion of 10.86 ha of forest land in favour of project director, NHAI, PIU 156 Girnar colony Gandhi Path, Vaishali Nagar, Jaipur for widening of NH-08 (Gurgaon-Kotputli -Jaipur road) from Km. 92.835 to 97.800 b/s , under forest division & distt. Rewari, Haryana

Madhya Pradesh 1 Diversion of 153.5412 ha of forest land for rehabilitation and upgradation to 4 lane configuration Obaidullahganj-Betul section

of NH-69 in the State of Madhya Pradesh. Maharashtra

1 Proposals for diversion of 48.623 hectares of forest land for upgradation of existing 2 lane to 4 lane NH-6 from Amravati to Gujarat border (Maharashtra)

Punjab 1 Diversion of 281.8229 ha of forest land for four laning of NH-64 (Patiala Sangrur Barnala Bathinda road) km 64.000-209.5 b/s

km 64.000 to 76.400 and southern bypass under jurisdiction of Patiala forest division, km 76.400 to 166.200 under Sangrur

forest division and km 166.2-209.5 b/s Bathinda-Malout road km 2.7-3 b/s and Bathinda-Goniana road km 3-3.2 b/s under forest division Bathinda

2 Proposal for diversion of 12.783 ha of forest land (2.46 ha Pathankot+7.923 ha Gurdaspur+2.4 ha Amritsar) in favor of NHAI for widening of NH-15 from Pathankot-Amritsar from Kms 6.082 to 108.502 for 4/6 lane along bypass district Pathankot, Gurdaspur and Amritsar, Punjab

Rajasthan 1 Diversion of 123.769 ha of forest land for upgradation and strengthening of existing 2 lane with paved shoulder from Sikar to

Bikaner section of National Highway (NH-11) (km 340/188 to km 55/775) district of Sikar, Rajasthan. 2 Diversion of 266.987 ha for lanning of Gomti Chauraha-Udaipur section of NH-8 from Km 177.00 to Km 260.100 in the state

of Rajasthan. 3 Diversion of 138.68 hectares of forest land for upgradation of existing to lane road to 4/6 lane road NH-12, Km 256/500 to

346.539 (chainage 0/00 to 88.090) in regarding of Kota to Jhalawar, Rajasthan. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCES FOR DEVELOPMENTAL PROJECTS 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1555 SHRI AVINASH PANDE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Government gave environmental clearances to 209 developmental projects between July 13, 2011 and July 12, 2012; and

(b) if so, the details of the industrial projects and national highway projects cleared by Government during the period?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Ministry of Environment and Forests has accorded environmental clearance to 209 developmental projects between July 13, 2011 and July 12, 2012. Out of 209 projects, 88 Industrial projects and 32 National Highways projects have been accorded environmental clearance during the same period. FUNDS FOR CONSERVATION OF ASIATIC LIONS 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1556 SHRI BHARATSINH PRABHATSINH PARMAR: SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA: SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) when the Central Government is going to grant necessary funds for conservation of Asiatic Lions in Gujarat State;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the quantum of funds to be allocated in this regard and in what manner; (d) whether the Ministry has approached Planning Commission in this regard; (e) if so, the details of response of Planning Commission; (f) whether the Central Government has communicated to the State Government of Gujarat in this regard

within last six months; and (g) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has not taken any decision to grant necessary funds for specific purpose of conservation of Lions in Gujarat State at present. (d) to (g) The State Government of Gujarat has submitted a focused project proposal titled ‘Consolidating Long Term Conservation of Asiatic Lion in Greater Gir Region, Gujarat’ for a period of five years amounting to Rs. 262.36 crores for financial assistance. The Ministry forwarded the project to the Planning Commission for its approval. The Planning Commission approved the project subject to compliance with the provisions of Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. The Ministry released financial assistance amounting to Rs. 674.541 lakh during the financial year 2010-11 and Rs. 675.859 lakh during 2011-12 under the above scheme to the State Government of Gujarat for undertaking part of the activities under the project. During the current financial year 2012-13, as requested by the State Government, unspent balance of Rs. 1039.20 lakh has been revalidated. PROPOSAL OF AP GOVERNMENT FOR APPROVAL OF WILDLIFE BOARD 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1557 SMT T. RATNA BAI: SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the State Government of Andhra Pradesh has sent any proposal for 1.35 acres of land which is in the SrivenkateswaraAbhayaranyam in Tirupati for the approval of Wildlife Board; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and the action taken so far? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) No such proposal has been received in the Ministry for consideration of the National Board for Wildlife. (b) Does not arise. CURB ON SPREAD OF LANTANA 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1558 SHRI D. BANDYOPADHYAY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that an obnoxious weed called Lantana which was introduced in India by the East India Company as a hedge plant is spreading menacingly throughout the country covering almost 13 million hectares; and

(b) if so, the details of measures taken by Government to arrest further spread of this weed and to recover the land already covered by it?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes, Sir. Lantana (Lantana camara var. aculeata) – a native of South America was introduced in India by the British during 1809 as an ornamental plant. Since then, this shrub has invaded almost all possible terrestrial habitats from sub mountainous region of the outer Himalayas to southern most parts of India. (b) The Ministry provides financial assistance under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes such as Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat, Project Tiger, Intensification of Forest Management Scheme and National afforestation Programme etc., which inter alia have provisions to control the spread of Lantana. In addition the State/UT Governments are also implementing schemes under respective state sector plans, which have provisions to control spread of Lantana. BAN ON PLASTIC PACKAGES IN HIMACHAL PRADESH 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1559 SMT BIMLA KASHYAP SOOD: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the quantum of plastic packed items in tonnes, being sold per day in Himachal Pradesh and the time by which the plastic packed junk food will be banned;

(b) the quantum of plastic waste in tonnes generated in Himachal Pradesh and the provision, if any, to recycle this plastic waste;

(c) whether Government has received any proposal from the State Government of Himachal Pradesh to set up any recycling plant; and

(d) if so, the place where it is to be set up and by when this project is likely to be completed? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) As per the information received from the Government of Himachal Pradesh (HP), there is no record regarding quantum of plastic packed items sold per day in Himachal Pradesh. The Ministry has notified the Plastic (Waste Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 which, inter-alia, states that no person shall use carry bags made of recycled plastics or compostable plastics for storing, carrying, dispensing or packaging food stuff. In the Rules there is no provision for banning of plastic packed junk food. (b) There is no information regarding the exact generation of plastic waste in HP. However, as per the information furnished by the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) about 50-60 million tonnes of plastic waste is generated per day. As per the provisions under the Plastic (Waste Management and Handling) Rules, 2011, the person recycling or proposing to recycle carry bags or multilayered plastic or any plastic waste shall apply to the concerned State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or Pollution Control Committee (PCC) of Union Territory for grant of registration. (c) & (d) Proposals for setting up of plastic recycling units are not required to be submitted to the Central Government. Such proposals require registration with the concerned SPCB or PCC of Union Territory under the Plastic (Waste Management and Handling) Rules, 2011. ADDITIONAL SECURITY AND BUDGET FOR WILD LIFE SANCTUARIES 12th March, 2013

RSQ 1560 SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government proposes to provide additional security and budget to those wild life sanctuaries where the number of wild animals are continuously registering growth;

(b) if so, whether Government has received proposals from State Governments in this regard; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the steps taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) The Ministry provides financial assistance to State/Union Territory Governments annually for protection and conservation of wildlife and its habitats under the various Centrally Sponsored Schemes viz., ’Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’, ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ based on the Annual Plans of Operations received from them. Presently there is no proposal to provide additional security and budget to wildlife sanctuaries based on number of wild animals. PROTECTION OF INDIAN RIVERS 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1561 SHRI S. THANGAVELU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that despite a number of prevailing acts intended to protect India's waterways, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards are unwilling to use them effectively;

(b) whether it is also a fact that a more ecological sound approach towards environmentally protecting flows in rivers is necessary;

(c) if so, the steps taken by Government in this regard; and (d) whether it is also a fact that accountability norms for official agencies are necessary for the restoration

of many more rivers that are dying due to pollution? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is monitoring the water quality of various river stretches to ascertain pollution levels for projects to be taken up for pollution abatement. CPCB and the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) also monitor compliance of effluent discharge standards by the industries and action is taken against the defaulting industries by CPCB and SPCBs under relevant provisions of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. (b) & (c) The Government has set up the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) in February 2009 as an empowered planning, financing and monitoring authority with an objective to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic river basin approach. Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments and this Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in abatement of pollution in rivers under National River

Conservation Plan (NRCP) for implementation of projects on a cost sharing basis between the Central and State Governments. The NRCP presently covers 41 rivers in 191 towns spread over 20 States. (d) As per details given in part(a) of the question above. DE-HORNING OF RHINOS 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1562 SHRI BHUBANESWAR KALITA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the rhinos in African countries have been de- horned to deter the poachers from killing the rhino;

(b) whether it is viable for the state to de-horn and remove the horns so that the rhinos are not targeted for the horns and save them from being killed; and

(c) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is not aware of the fact that the rhinos in African countries have been de- horned to deter the poachers from killing the rhino. (b) &(c) In view of (a) above, the question does not arise KILLING OF LEOPARD IN ASSAM 12th March, 2013` RSQ 1563 DR. NAJMA A. HEPTULLA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the attention of Government has been drawn to the incident in which a leopard has been killed and mutilated by cutting its tail, legs and head by villagers at Ouguri Shyam village in Borhat forest range of Sivasagar district in Assam;

(b) if so, what is Government’s reaction thereto; (c) whether any action has been taken against those involved in the crime; and (d) if so, the details thereof, and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) to (d) The Forest Department, Government of Assam, took steps to rescue the animal. However, the animal was killed by miscreants. The Forest Department has lodged a complaint against the miscreants and the Police have arrested four numbers of suspected culprits under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

QUALITY OF GANGA WATER 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1564 SHRI AMBETH RAJAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government took any steps to improve the quality of Ganga Water in terms of Bio-Chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD); and

(b) if so, the details of the steps taken by Government in this regard and the outcome thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Ganga Action Plan (GAP) is being implemented since 1985 for undertaking pollution abatement activities in the identified polluted stretches of the river Ganga through implementation of works like interception and diversion of sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, low cost sanitation works, crematoria works etc. Under GAP, a total of 83 sewage treatment plants have been sanctioned for pollution abatement activities out of which 69 sewage treatment plants have been created. As per present estimates, nearly 2723 million litres of sewage is generated everyday in Class I cities and class II towns along Ganga River and so far, a capacity to treat 1091 million litres per day (mld) has been created. The Central Government has set up the National Ganga River Basin Management Authority (NGRBA) as an empowered planning, financial, monitoring and coordinating authority to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga. Since inception of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) programme, 53 schemes in 43 towns in Ganga States have been sanctioned at a total cost of Rs. 2600 crore. Against this, Rs. 805 crore have been released by the Centre including the matching share of the States. MRV STANDARDS OF THE COUNTRY 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1565 SHRI. N. K. SINGH. : Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether there is any measuring, reporting and verification (MRV) standards for any of the domestic emission reduction measures and domestic mitigation goals;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the MRV standards in India is adequate for the assessment of the progress of any international

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

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) Domestic mitigation goals including domestic emission reduction measures are subject to domestic guidelines for measurement, reporting and verification. As decided during the sixteenth Conference of Parties to

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Nov-Dec 2010, domestically supported mitigation actions by developing country Parties are to be measured, reported and verified domestically in accordance with general guidelines developed under the Convention. WATER QUALITY OF AQUATIC SOURCES 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1566 DR. K.V.P. RAMACHANDRA RAO: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) monitors water quality of aquatic sources in various States;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the pollution level in the water sources in Andhra Pradesh; and (d) the assistance provided by the Central Government to the State to address the issue?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has established a National Water Quality Monitoring Network Programme (NWMP) for monitoring aquatic resources across the country. The present network comprises of 2500 stations in 28 States and 6 Union Territories spread over the country. The monitoring network covers 445 Rivers, 154 Lakes, 12 Tanks, 78 Ponds, 41 Creeks/Seawater, 25 Canals, 45 Drains, 10 Water Treatment Plants (Raw Water) and 807 Wells. Among the 2500 stations, 1275 are on rivers, 190 on lakes, 45 on drains, 41 on canals, 12 on tanks, 41 on creeks/seawater, 79 on ponds, 10 Water Treatment Plants (Raw Water) and 807 are groundwater stations. The CPCB is monitoring the water quality of aquatic sources at 140 locations in Andhra Pradesh. Out of which 54 are on rivers, 15 on lakes, 16 on drains, 3 on canals, 10 on tanks, 10 on ponds and 32 are groundwater stations. The details of water quality analysis results of Andhra Pradesh are enclosed at Annexure. (d) The CPCB reimburses the expenditure incurred by State Pollution Control Boards/ Pollution Control Committees under NWMP. The amount of reimbursement made to the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board during last three years is as under: (in Rs.) 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2061284 1235312 2787972 ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (C) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 1566 DUE FOR REPLY ON 12.3.2013 REGARDING WATER QUALITY OF AQUATIC SOURCES RAISED BY DR. K.V.P. RAMACHANDRA RAO Water quality data analysis results of Andhra Pradesh Dissolved Oxygen (DO): Criteria DO> than 4 mg/l Rivers- River Musi at D/s Hyderabad (0.6 mg/l), River Muneru B/C Krishna at Nandigama (1.7 mg/l), River Maner at Warangal U/s (2.1 mg/l), River Krishna at Hamsala Deevi –Guntur (3.9 mg/l) and River Pennar A/c Cheyyuru at Somasile (3.9 mg/l).

Lakes/Tanks/Ponds- Nalla Chevuru at Rangareddy (0.4 mg/l), Mallapur Tank (0.5 mg/l), Durgam Chevuru (0.6 mg/l), Miralam Lake Near Zoo Park at Rangareddy (0.8 mg/l), Laxminarayana Chevuru at Edulabad (0.8 mg/l), Pedda Chevuru (0.8 mg/l), Hussain Sagar Lake at Budameru (0.9 mg/l), Sai Chevuru, Near Tannery Industries at Warangal (1.5 mg/l), Kistareddypet Tank at Medak (2.0 mg/l), Noor Md. Kunta at Rangareddy (2.1 mg/l), Gandigudem Tank at Medak (3.2 mg/l), Saroonagar Lake at Ranga Reddy (3.3 mg/l), Pulicate Lake at Nellore (3.5 mg/l) and Bibinagar Tank (3.8 mg/l). Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD): Criteria BOD< than 3 mg/l Lakes/Tanks/Ponds- Asani Kunta at Kajipally –Medak (320.0 mg/l), Saroonagar Lake at Ranga Reddy (136.0 mg/l), Kajipally Tank at Medak (115.0 mg/l), Pedda Chevuru (85.0 mg/l), Durgam Chevuru (80.0 mg/l), Mallapur Tank (70.0 mg/l), Nalla Chevuru at Rangareddy (66.0 mg/l), Hussain Sagar Lake at Budameru (58.0 mg/l), Noor Md. Kunta at Rangareddy (43.0 mg/l), Premajipet Tank at Rangareddy (39.0 mg/l), Laxminarayana Chevuru at Edulabad –Rangareddy (37.0 mg/l), Miralam Lake Near Zoo Park at Rangareddy (26.0 mg/l), Sai Chevuru Near Tannery Industries at Warangal (25.0 mg/l), Kistareddypet Tank at Medak (24.0 mg/l), Gandigudem Tank at Medak (12.0 mg/l), Bhadrakali Chevuru at Warangal (7.2 mg/l), Himayat Sagar Lake at Rangareddy (7.0 mg/l), Dharmasagar Tank at Warangal (6.2 mg/l) and Bibinagar Tank (4.6 mg/l). Rivers- River Musi at Nagole –Rangareddy (145.0 mg/l), Hyderabad D/s (76.0 mg/l) & Hyderabad U/s (7.5 mg/l); River Nakkavagu at Bachugudem –Medak (18.0 mg/l); River Maner at Warangal U/s (9.5 mg/l) & Somnapalli (4.0 mg/l), River Krishna at Gadwal Bridge (7.9 mg/l), Thangadi (7.3 mg/l), Wadapally A/c Musi (4.8 mg/l) & A/c Tungabhadra at Sangameshwaram (3.2 mg/l); River Godavari at Godavarikhani (7.8 mg/l), D/s Ramanugundam (7.7 mg/l), Ramagundam D/s (6.4 mg/l), Basara (4.0 mg/l), Mancherial B/c Rallavagu (3.6 mg/l), Mancherial (3.6 mg/l), Ramagundam U/s (3.5 mg/l) & Kamalpur D/s (3.5 mg/l); River Pennar A/c Cheyyuru at Somasile (6.0 mg/l), B/c Chitravathi at Tadpatri (3.7 mg/l) &Siddvata –Nellore (3.1 mg/l); River Manjeera at Gowdicharla A/c Nakkavagu (5.6 mg/l), Ganapathi Sugars (4.8 mg/l), Raipallu (4.0 mg/l) &Gowdicharla B/c Nakkavagu (3.2 mg/l); River Hundri at Joharpur(V) –Kurnool (3.6 mg/l); River Tunghabhadra at Kurnool U/s (3.4 mg/l) and River Kundu at Nandyal (3.2 mg/l). Ground Water- Bore Well at Panchayat Office in Bollaram –Medak (13.0 mg/l), Bore Well at Sri Ramnagar Colony in Bodhan –Nizamabad (3.8 mg/l), Well at Peddavoora (3.5 mg/l) and Bore Well at Primary School in Rudravelli –Nalgonda (3.4 mg/l). MINIMUM LIMIT FOR FOREST COVERAGE IN THE COUNTRY 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1567 SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has fixed minimum limit for forest coverage of land in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken or being taken by Government to bring the forest cover up

to the limit fixed especially in Karnataka; (c) the details of trees felled during the last three years and the current year; and (d) the details of trees planted during the said period in the country?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)&(b) (c) (d) The National Forest Policy, 1988 provides that the national goal should be to have 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 aim should be to maintain two-third of the area under such cover in order to prevent erosion and land degradation and to ensure the stability of the fragile eco-system. As per the India State of Forest Report, 2011, the country has

23.81 percent of area under forest and tree cover. Karnataka has 21.86 percent of the State’s geographical area under forest and tree cover. To move towards the goal of 33% forest or tree cover, afforestation in the country is taken up under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes such as National Afforestation Programme (NAP), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), National Bamboo Mission, 13th Finance Commission Award, compensatory afforestation under Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and also under different State Plan/ Non Plan Schemes including Externally Aided Projects. National Afforestation Programme of the Ministry of Environment & Forests is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme for afforestation and tree plantation and eco- restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in the country through people’s participation. In addition the forests of the country are conserved and managed under the provisions of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and Wild Life Protection Act, 1972. The information pertaining to details of trees felled in the country is not maintained in the Ministry. Details about the area covered under plantation and number of trees are given in Annexure.

Annexure Statement referred to in reply to part (d) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1567 raised by Shri Aayanur Manjunatha regarding Minimum limit for forest coverage in the country due for answer on 12.3.2013

S. N. Name of State/UT

2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

Area in Ha

No of saplings planted in Lakh

Area in Ha

No of saplings

planted in Lakh

Area in Ha

No of saplings planted in Lakh

Area in Ha

No of saplings

planted in Lakh

1 Andhra Pradesh 340560 3197.54 243931 1568 383927 2503.00 407700 3099.00

2 Arunachal Pradesh 10268 78.68 7115 51.79 6150 1.23 10817 2.26

3 Assam 7107 40.00 6626 75 3509 90.00 43 44.40 4 Bihar 22747 147.85 21366 138.88 15378 100.00 22796 148.17 5 Chhattisgarh 66762 491.75 55512 337.39 58458 674.55 50412 400.71 6 Goa 487 9.60 371 6.74 488 6.97 465 6.83 7 Gujarat 112247 899.07 169353 1784.58 127149 2221.93 140513 2219.69 8 Haryana 29987 287.62 20770 352.43 79883 512.00 64401 501.39

9 Himachal Pradesh 20997 136.00 20165 131.07 24710 160.61 31938 207.60

10 Jammu and Kashmir 19752 124.91 25427 76.52 15453 74.84 10466 75.47

11 Jharkhand 25181 238.72 28950 271.8 21914 248.13 34214 184.19 12 Karnataka 74639 619.97 83641 636.84 94376 827.89 66091 598.95 13 Kerala 5376 55.77 9941 118.74 8463 91.84 3971 90.93

14 Madhya Pradesh 153755 950.00 135141 706.41 168678 1096.41 110702 7195.60

15 Maharashtra 239654 1227.11 216891 1271.45 178498 1381.57 122880 981.16 16 Manipur 8468 95.06 23673 163.88 10532 74.14 17997 121.18 17 Meghalaya 2552 18.99 1096 14.12 654 23.78 6840 45.19 18 Mizoram 1050 17.63 2983 12.05 7197 27.90 6240 10.48 19 Nagaland 875 10.00 0 0 4790 47.89 1047 10.13 20 Odisha 98789 446.29 132130 492.44 242868 1244.44 196671 600.01 21 Punjab 8125 47.86 11548 71.23 13711 134.86 6965 49.43 22 Rajasthan 44365 239.66 102207 468.83 96356 252.64 71301 350.95 23 Sikkim 3862 23.05 8007 84.61 2734 21.94 6739 45.68 24 Tamil Nadu 153732 512.03 66446 217.53 95499 300.08 75492 362.70 25 Tripura 12597 130.22 13228 116.83 16650 98.00 25572 170.86 26 Uttarakhand 120848 818.25 27163 261.54 20044 161.33 23505 241.58 27 Uttar Pradesh 70225 771.65 96070 913.2 84516 766.86 83233 663.55 28 West Bengal 18634 298.15 15043 240.69 14286 287.27 753 71.52

29 A & N Islands 1212 9.16 1738 7.64 1377 7.26 1583 9.83 30 Chandigarh 383 2.27 180 1.25 272 1.94 316 1.94 31 D & N Haveli 284 4.08 205 4.21 200 3.96 269 3.78 32 Daman & Diu 30 0.56 20 0.55 10 0.10 14 0.20 33 Delhi 80 11.33 123 13.58 1496 12.30 1239 9.57 34 Lakshadweep 20 0.13 20 0.13 27 0.22 22 0.20 35 Puducherry 50 1.55 50 1.51 33 0.61 82 1.57 Total 1675700 11962.51 1547130 10613.46 1800286 13458.49 1603289 18526.70

ASSISTANCE UNDER NATIONAL RIVER CONSERVATION PLAN 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1568 SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of funds allotted to the States under National River Conservation Plan; (b) whether it is a fact that even after spending millions of rupees, the pollution levels have not been

declining in rivers; (c) if so, the reasons therefor; and (d) the action taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP), an amount of Rs.4629 crore has been released by the Central Government till January, 2013 to various State implementing agencies for execution of the pollution abatement schemes. (b) & (c) The water quality, in terms of BOD values for major rivers is reported to have improved at most of the locations, as compared to the water quality before taking up pollution abatement works under NRCP. (d) Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments and this Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in abatement of pollution in rivers under NRCP for implementation of projects on a cost sharing basis between the Central and State Governments. The NRCP presently covers 41 rivers in 191 towns spread over 20 States. DISAPPEARANCE OF YARSAGUMBA HERB FROM HILLY AND FOREST SANCTUARIES 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1569 SHRI ISHWARLAL SHANKARLAL JAIN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether a herb named ‘Yarsagumba’ which is famous as Himalayan Viagra is disappearing rapidly from all the hills and forests/sanctuaries situated in India;

(b) whether companies engaged in hedging this herb have obtained approval from Government; (c) if so, names of all those companies which are using this herb and the criteria/guidelines for approval of

the agreement entered into with them mowing this herb;

(d) whether annual turnover of companies involved in this trade is said to be Billion Dollars; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) According to information provided by Botanical Survey of India, ‘Yarsagumba’ is a fungus growing on a caterpillar found at higher altitudes (above 4500 metre) in Himalayan region. Its scientific name is Ophiocordyceps sinensis (synonym: Cordyceps sinensis). As per report of study on “Demand and Supply of Medicinal Plants in India” conducted by National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) through Foundation for Revitalization of Local Health Traditions (FRLHT), Bengaluru; Yarsagumba is included in the list of 960 species of medicinal plants being traded. As per this report, Yarsagumba was being used in Folk therapy. NMPB had supported a project during year 2005 in the State of Uttarakhand entitled “Habitat ecology and distribution pattern of Yarsagumba Cordyceps sinensis in the Central Himalayas” to Government Post Graduate College, Pithoragarh. The findings of this project showed decline in availability of the Yarsagumba due to its exploitation. (b) As per information received from Forest Department of Uttarakhand, Van Panchayats (Village Forest Committees) have been given the right to collect Yarsagumba from Panchayati van areas. The collected material can only be sold through the Uttarakhand Forest Development Corporation. The latter, during 2009-2010, realised an amount of Rs 07.94 lakh through sale of 03.60 Kg of Yarsagumba. (c) According to information received from Forest Department of Uttarakhand, no company is engaged in processing of Yarsagumba in the State of Uttarakhand. Further, according to information given by Ayurvedic Drug Manufacturers’ Association (ADMA), Yarsagumba is not in use in Ayurvedic pharmaceutical industry. (d) & (e) Do not arise. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO GREEN FIELD AIRPORT AT ARANMULA IN KERALA 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1570 SHRI K. N. BALAGOPAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government agencies have cleared the Green Field Airport Project at Aranmula, Kerala; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether any complaints regarding environmental violations has been received about the project; and (d) if so, the action taken in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) The environment clearance for development of Green Field Airport Project at Aranmula, Kerala is not granted as representations were received against the project alleging that the area notified by State Government for constructing airport includes wetlands and paddy fields, filling up of which will impact the ecosystem, environmental balance and number of structures of the area, and required detailed examination. CONSTRUCTION OF DAM ON GODAVARI RIVER IN ANDHRA PRADESH

12th March, 2013 RSQ 1571 SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry is aware that the State Government of Andhra Pradesh is constructing a dam on Godavari river at Polavaram in AP with an expenditure of

(a) 40,000 crores; (b) if so, whether the Ministry has granted necessary environmental and ecological clearances; (c) whether any clearance given earlier for the project has been cancelled; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) Environmental Clearance to the Polavaram Multipurpose project in Andhra Pradesh was accorded on 25.10.2005, after following the procedure in accordance with Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 1994. The Ministry has also issued the approval for diversion of forest land on 28.7.2010. The Environmental Clearance was revisited in February, 2009 and the Government of Andhra Pradesh was requested to take suitable action requesting the appropriate authorities in Odisha and Chhattisgarh States for conducting Public Hearing in the respective State of Odisha and Chhattisgarh in respect of embankment proposals and report back to the Ministry. The Ministry, vide its letter dated 8.2.2011, had asked the Government of Andhra Pradesh to stop construction work of the project. Later, vide letter dated 27.2.2013, the stop work order has been kept in abeyance for a period of six months during which public hearings will be done in the States of Chhattisgarh and Odisha and outcome reported to the Ministry. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCES TO MINING OF MINOR MINERALS AND NON-FERROUS MINERALS 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1572 SHRI V. HANUMANTHA RAO: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether there is a demand to allow State Governments to give environmental clearances to the mining of minor minerals and all non ferrous minerals;

(b) whether it is a fact that small and petty entrepreneurs have to come to Delhi frequently to follow up their applications;

(c) the details of the steps Government will take to return various powers to State Governments to control environmental clearances; and

(d) what subjects will be returned to State Governments in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) to (d) As per Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, projects of mining of minerals as stated in the schedule require prior environment clearance. The mining activities related to minor minerals for less that 50 ha of mining lease area and major minerals from 5ha to 50 ha of mining lease area are granted environmental

clearance at State level by the concerned State Environment Impact Assessment Authority. However, if the project is located in whole or in part within 10 km from the boundary (i) Protected Areas notified under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, (ii) Critically Polluted areas as notified by the Central Pollution Control Board from time to time, (iii) Notified Eco-sensitive areas, (iv) inter-State boundaries and international boundaries, it has to get environmental clearance at central level. POLLUTION LEVEL IN MAJOR RIVERS OF MADHYA PRADESH 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1573 DR. VIJAYLAXMI SADHO: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether any survey has been carried out regarding problems of declining water level in major rivers and pollution therein in Madhya Pradesh;

(b) if so, the steps being taken to control increasing pollution in major river Narmada in Madhya Pradesh; and

(c) the details of steps taken by Government to clean Narmada, Chambal, Kshipra and Betwa rivers in Madhya Pradesh?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is monitoring the water quality in association with concerned State Pollution Control Board at 155 locations in Madhya Pradesh, out of which 96 are on rivers. The water quality of River Narmada is broadly meeting the Water Quality Criteria for designated uses except at Hoshangabad in Madhya Pradesh. Further, the water quality of other rivers is meeting the desired water criteria for all parameters, except BOD at certain locations. On the basis of water quality data in respect of BOD, 9 polluted river stretches have been identified in 8 rivers namely Narmada, Khan, Kshipra, Chambal, Betwa, Tons, Kalisot and Mandakini in Madhya Pradesh. (b) The effluent discharge standards have been notified, which are monitored by State Pollution Control Boards for compliance. The action is initiated against industries in case of non compliance under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. (c) This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in pollution abatement in various rivers through the centrally sponsored National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). Under the NRCP, for pollution abatement of Narmada River two towns namely Jabalpur and Hoshangabad were identified and six schemes were sanctioned at cost of Rs. 14.33 crores, out of which an amount of Rs. 6.48 crore was released. Similarly for pollution abatement of Chambal River, Nagda town was identified and four schemes were sanctioned at a cost of Rs.3.11 crores and 9 mld sewage treatment capacity has been created. For pollution abatement of Kshipra River, Ujjain town was identified and nine schemes were sanctioned at a cost of Rs.18.05 crores and 55.46 mld sewage treatment capacity has been created. For pollution abatement of Betwa River, three towns namely Bhopal, Mandideep and Vidisha were identified and fourteen schemes were sanctioned at a cost of Rs.8.23 crore and sewage treatment capacity of 15 mld has been created. CONSERVATION OF CROCODILE AND KING COBRA

12th March, 2013 RSQ 1574 SHRI AVINASH PANDE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of the fact that the Indian crocodile and the king cobra are facing extinction;

(b) the number of these species during the last three years; and (c) the details of steps Government has taken to ensure their protection and preservation?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)&(b) The Indian crocodile and the king cobra are presently not on the verge of extinction. The population status of these species are not available in the Ministry. (c) The endangered species of wild animals are listed in various schedules of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 thereby according them the high degree of protection. Besides, a network of Protected Areas (National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves) has been created for providing protection to the habitats of threatened species of wild animals including Indian crocodile and king cobra. RELEASE OF FUNDS DEPOSITED UNDER AD-HOC CAMPA 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1575 SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR : Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Gujarat has deposited ` 659.51 crores up to 4 January, 2013 in Ad-hoc CAMPA of the Central Government ;

(b) if so, whether so far only ` 112.83 crores have been released against deposited amount of ` 659.91 crores ;

(c) whether the Central Government intends to transfer the amount of ` 659.51 crores deposited by Gujarat into the account of Gujarat State CAMPA ;

(d) what action had been taken so far to return back the total amount into Gujarat State CAMPA; and (e) by when the remaining amount will be returned to Gujarat State CAMPA?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) An amount of ` 652,14,84,361.00 has been deposited in the accounts maintained by Ad-hoc CAMPA in the name of Gujarat State CAMPA since the year 2006, and upto 4th January 2013; (b) An amount of ` 112,83,32,000.00 has been released to the Gujarat State CAMPA; (c) to (e) The releases to the State CAMPAs, including the Gujarat State CAMPA from the funds held in State accounts managed by the Ad-hoc CAMPA is regulated in terms of the Order dated 10th July 2009 of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in Writ Petition (Civil) No.202 of 1995 titled T N Godavarman Thirumalpad Vs UOI etc. In the said Order, the Hon’ble Court has, subject to the other conditions laid down, permitted the Ad-hoc CAMPA to

release, for the time being, the sum of about ` 1,000 crores per year, for the next 5 years, in proportion of 10% of the principal amount pertaining to the respective State/ UT. REHABILITATION OF GREAT INDIAN BUSTARD IN RANEBENNUR BLACK BUCK SANCTUARY 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1576 DR. PRABHAKAR KORE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Central Government has received any proposal from the State Government of Karnataka for rehabilitation of the Great Indian Bustard at Ranebennur Black Buck Sanctuary;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Central Government has taken any steps in this regard; (d) if so, the details, thereof; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) No proposal has been received from the State Government of Karnataka for rehabilitation of the Great Indian Bustard at Ranebennur Black Buck Sanctuary. (c) ,(d) & (e) Does not arise. DISPOSAL OF E-WASTE 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1577 SHRI RASHEED MASOOD: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) (a) whether Government has formulated any policy for disposing off growing e- waste all across the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the measures adopted to check e-waste in Delhi coming from outside?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c): The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has notified the E-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 for effective management of e-waste in the country. These Rules have come in to effect from 1st May 2012. The concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has been enshrined in these rules to make it a mandatory activity for the manufacturers of electronic and electrical equipments. Under the EPR, the producers are responsible for collection of e-waste generated from the end of life of their products by setting up collection centers or take back systems either individually or collectively. As per these Rules, E-waste recycling can be undertaken only in facilities authorized and registered with State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees. As per the Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008, import of e-waste

for disposal is not permitted. The import is permitted only for recycling or recovery or reuse with the permission of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. E-WASTE MANAGEMENT LAWS 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1578 SMT MAYA SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that e-waste management laws are still not being followed; (a) whether there is enough technical know how and infrastructure to dispose off e- waste; (b) whether the Ministry has any data on the number of e-waste units functioning in different States; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e): The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has notified the E-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 for effective management of e-waste in the country. These Rules have come in to effect from 1st May 2012. Under these Rules, E-waste recycling can be undertaken only in facilities authorized and registered with State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees. Waste generated is required to be sent or sold to registered or authorized recycler or re-processor having environmentally sound management facilities. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has published “Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Management of e-waste” to provide approach and methodology for environmentally sound management of e-waste. As per the information provided by the CPCB, there are 77 recycler/dismantlers granted registration by various State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees for recycling/dismantling of e-waste. These recyclers/dismantlers have environmentally sound dismantling and recycling facilities. DEATH OF WILD ANIMALS 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1579 SHRI MOHAN SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that poaching of one horned rhinocerouses is continuously on the rise in Assam;

(b) if so, the number of rhinocerouses killed during the past three years; (c) whether Government is aware of the number of elephants killed after being hit by trains in the forests

of Assam, Odisha and Uttarakhand; and (d) the details of the steps being taken with the Railways to prevent these kinds of incidents?


(a) & (b) Reports of poaching of rhinoceros in Assam received in the Ministry indicate variable trends. Details of rhinoceros killed by poaching in Assam during the last three year is as below:

Year No. of Rhinoceros poached 2010 8 2011 7 2012 13

Yes. Sir. (d) The Government has taken following measures to prevent accidental deaths of wild animals, especially elephants:

(i). Ministry of Railways in consultation with the Ministry of Environment and Forests had issued a general advisory to all the railway zones suggesting measures to prevent collision of trains with wild elephants. A permanent coordination team has been constituted jointly by the Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Environment and Forests to share information and monitor the implementation of the advisory on quarterly basis.

(ii). Ministry of Railways has also been requested to regulate the speed of trains in vulnerable sections. (iii). Nodal officers have been designated in the vulnerable sections to facilitate quick sharing of information. (iv). The Ministry of Environment and Forests sanctioned an amount of Rs 2.42 crores and released Rs 1.93

crores to the Government of West Bengal during FY 2010-11 for creation of fences and ramps at several places within Mahananda and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuaries.

(v). The Ministry of Environment and Forests has been releasing financial assistance to the State Government of West Bengal under Centrally Sponsored Scheme-‘Project Elephant’ for construction of RCC watch towers, provision of heavy duty solar lights, high beam search lights, engagement of personnel to man watch towers, and clearing of bushes on the sides of railway tracks for improving visibility to monitor the movement of elephants near the railway tracks with the objective of preventing collision of elephants with trains.

IMPACT OF GLOBAL WARMING ON FLORA AND FAUNA 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1580 SHRI N. BALAGANGA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has constituted an expert committee to go into the phenomenon of global warming and its impact on flora and fauna;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the outcome of such a committee; (c) whether Government has taken any action on the recommendations of the committee; and (d) if so, the details thereof, and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) An expert committee was set up in 2007 under the chairmanship of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India to assess the impacts of climate change in India on various sectors including agriculture, forests and natural ecosystem. The Expert Committee submitted its report in 2008 outlining the initiatives and actions needed in each of sectors to address the likely adverse impacts of climate change. The report has been circulated to the relevant line Ministries for appropriate actions. Many of its recommendations are subsumed in various missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change.

ACTUAL FOREST AREA IN THE COUNTRY 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1581 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the total forest area in the country is decreasing every day, although the satellite picture shows more forest area which may include coal fields, sugarcane fields etc. which are not actually forest; and

(b) the details of strategies of Government for sustainable growth of forest in India and to comply the UNO climate millennium programme?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) Forest Survey of India has been mapping and assessing the country’s forest cover biennially using Remote Sensing Technology. Forest cover includes all lands having trees with canopy density of ten percent and above and with area one hectare and more irrespective of its land use. As per the India State of Forest Report-2011 the total loss of the forest cover is 367 square kilometer compared to the previous assessment of India State of Forest Report-2009. (c) There is a strong policy and legal frame which include the National Forest Policy, 1988, Indian Forest Act, 1927, Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Biological Diversity Act, 2002 for sustainable management of forests. The National Forest Policy provides for sustainable management of forests. The principal aim of Forest Policy is to ensure environmental stability and maintenance of ecological balance. The Policy aims to have a minimum of one third of the total land area of the country under forest or tree cover. To move towards the goal of 33% forest and tree cover, afforestation in the country is taken up under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes such as National Afforestation Programme (NAP), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), National Bamboo Mission (NBM), 13th Finance Commission and also under different State Plan/ Non- Plan Schemes including externally aided projects. National Afforestation Programme (NAP) of the Ministry of Environment & Forests is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme for afforestation and tree plantation and eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in the country through people’s participation. Working Plans are the instruments for scientific forest management. All forest are managed under the prescription of a working plan/scheme. The National Mission for ‘A Green India’ is one of the eight Missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). The Green India Mission aims to increase forest and tree cover on 5 million hectare area and to improve quality of forest cover on another 5 million hectare area, environmental amelioration through climate mitigation, forest based livelihood of local communities and also to improve ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity and hydrological services. Plantation activities have been envisaged in the Mission through various Sub Missions. LAKES OF AP UNDER NLCP 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1582 SHRI C. M. RAMESH:


(a) the details of the lakes in Andhra Pradesh included in the scheme of National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP);

(b) whether this scheme yielded desired results in conserving and managing the polluted and degraded lakes in Andhra Pradesh; and

(c) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Lake Conservation Plan, this Ministry has sanctioned the project ‘Rehabilitation and Rejuvenation of Banjara Lake’ in Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh) in May, 2009 at a cost as Rs.4.30 crore, on 70:30 funding pattern. (b) & (c) The project is under implementation and out of the Central share of Rs.3.01crore, an amount of Rs.2.70 crore has been released. INDISCRIMINATE USE OF FOREST (CONSERVATION) ACT, 1980 12th March, 2013 RSQ 1583 SHRI C.M. RAMESH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of the fact that Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 is indiscriminately used to grant approval for carrying out non-forest activities including mining in the forest land; and

(b) if so, the steps taken by Government to prevent such activities? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) ( a) Prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose are accorded in accordance with the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, the Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 issued by the Central Government. Such approvals are accorded only when diversion of forest land is bare minimum and unavoidable after examination of all possible alternatives. (b) In view if reply to part (a) above, reply to part (b) does not arise. GREEN CREDIT SCHEME 19th March, 2013 RSQ *313 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the State Government of Gujarat has submitted "Green Credit" Scheme to the Central Government for approval;

(b) if so, whether the Central Government has taken any action on the proposal of "Green Credit" Scheme; (c) whether it is also a fact that though the Hon'ble Minister and the Secretary of the Department have

agreed in principle, yet the Scheme has not been formally approved; and (d) if so, by when the scheme is likely to be approved?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI

JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 313 BY SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA REGARDING ‘GREEN CREDIT SCHEME’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 19.03.2013. a) The State Government of Gujarat had submitted a proposal by the name “Green Credit Scheme” to the Ministry. This proposal envisages advancing the obligatory compensatory afforestation in cases of diversion of forest land under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. (b) to (d) The proposal has been examined in the Ministry and requires approval of Hon’bleSupreme Court of India. The State Government of Gujarat had been advised to approach the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India for obtaining further directions. DISPOSAL OF EFFLUENTS BY DISTILLERIES

19th March, 2013 RSQ 2326 DR. T. N. SEEMA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government is aware that the standards to be complied by distilleries for disposal of treated

effluents are not being followed by several distilleries; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the details of surprise inspections carried out by the Central and each of the State Pollution Control

Boards (PCBs) for verification of compliance by distilleries to the prescribed pollution control norms during 2012 along with action taken reports;

(d) whether CPCB and State PCBs have given a fixed time-frame to distilleries for establishing facilities to achieve Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD);

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

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) As per information provided by the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), there are 339 distilleries in the country. Out of these, 250 distilleries have taken measures to achieve zero discharge of spent wash, 55 distilleries are yet to provide adequate measures to achieve zero discharge and 20 distilleries are closed. The status regarding remaining 14 distilleries are yet to be confirmed by the SPCBs/ PCCs. The state-wise status of distilleries is given at Annexure-I. (c) The CPCB conducted surprise inspections of 30 distilleries in 2012. Based on the inspections, directions were issued to 4 Units under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and one direction was issued under Section 18(1)(b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution ) Act, 1974 to the State Pollution Control Board. The details of action taken are given at Annexure-II.

(d) to (f) The effluent standards for distilleries have been notified under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 which do not provide time limit for compliance. However, in the year 2003, under the voluntary programme on Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environment Protection (CREP), the distilleries agreed to achieve zero liquid discharge in a time bound manner through 50% utilization of spent wash by March, 2004, 75% utilization of spent wash by March, 2005, and 100% utilization of spent wash by December, 2005. The measures for achieving zero discharge of spent wash as per the CREP programme included the following:

i. Compost making with press mud/agricultural residue/Municipal Waste; ii. Concentration and drying/ Incineration; iii. Treatment of spent wash through biomethanation followed by two stage secondary treatment and dilution

of the treated effluent with process water for irrigation as per norms prescribed by CPCB/Ministry of Environment and Forests;

iv. Treatment of spent wash through bio-methanation following by secondary treatment (BOD<2500 mg/I) for controlled discharge into sea through a proper submerged marine outfall at a point permitted by SPCB/CPCB in consultation with National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), so that Dissolved Oxygen in the mixing zone does not deplete, less than 4.0 mg/I;

v. One time controlled land application of treated effluent. ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) & (B) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2326 DUE FOR REPLY ON 19.03.2013 REGARDING DISPOSAL OF EFFLUENTS BY DISTILLERIES RAISED BY DR. T. N. SEEMA. Status of distillery based on information provided by SPCBs/PCCs

S. No. State/ UT No. of

Distilleries

Operational Status/pollution control measures Distilleries with Zero discharge

Distilleries without Zero discharge

Distilleries Closed

Mode of Zero discharge

1 Andhra Pradesh 19 18 01 00 Reverse osmosis (RO)/ Multiple Effect Evaporation (MEE), composting

2 Bihar 05 05 00 00 Composting, irrigation 3 Chhattisgarh 03 -- -- -- --- 4 Goa 02 00 02 00 --- 5 Gujarat 10 09 01 00 Composting, irrigation 6 Haryana 08 08 00 00 MEE, composting 7 Himachal Pradesh 03 01 02 00 --- 8 Jammu & Kashmir 06 -- -- -- --- 9 Karnataka 38 37 01 00

10 Madhya Pradesh 8 7 1 11 Maharashtra 107 77 24 06 As per Corporate

responsibly for environment protection (CREP)

12 Orissa 04 04 00 00 --- 13 Punjab 13 06 07 00 --- 14 Rajasthan 10 09 00 01 MEE, RO, composting 15 Sikkim 01 -- -- -- --- 16 Tamil Nadu 26 12 10 04 Composting, incineration 17 Tripura 0 18 Uttar Pradesh 68 53 06 09 Composting, RO, MEE,

Incineration, irrigation 19 Uttarakhand 03 03 00 00 Concentration, composting 20 West Bengal 01 01 00 00 --- 21 Daman Diu Dadra Nagar

Haveli 04 -- -- -- ---

Total 339 250 55 20

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (C) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2326 DUE FOR REPLY ON 19.03.2013 REGARDING DISPOSAL OF EFFLUENTS BY DISTILLERIES RAISED BY DR. T. N. SEEMA. Details of action taken in respect of surprise inspections

No of distilleries/Surprise Inspections Status / action taken 04 Direction issued under section 5 of the Environment (Protection ) Act, 1986 to the Units 01 Direction issued under section 18(1)(b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution )

Act, 1974 issued to the State Pollution Control Board 02 Letters issued to the concerned State Pollution Control Board/Pollution Control Committee

for action. 01 Letter issued to the Unit for ensuring compliance 01 Letter issued to the concerned CPCB Zonal Office for further information 04 Closed 11 Units were found not in operation during the surprise inspection 03 Case under consideration 02 Complying / no action 01 Case under the 3-Member Committee constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India

BAN ON NEW INDUSTRIES IN MAHARASHTRA 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2327 SHRI ISHWARLAL SHANKARLAL JAIN SHRI ANIL DESAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Central Government has imposed a ban on setting up of new industries in Ratnagiri and

Sindhudurg districts of Konkan region of Maharashtra; (b) if so, whether the State Government has requested or submitted a proposal for lifting the ban on setting

up of new industries in these districts; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether this decision of the Central Government is causing substantial hindrances in the course of

economic development of these districts of the State; (e) whether Government intends to lift the ban imposed on the setting up of new industries in these areas;

and (f) if so, the details thereof?


(a) Ministry of Environment and Forests has imposed a moratorium on consideration of projects under the EIA notification, 2006 received by the Ministry or by Maharashtra State Environment Impact Assessment Authority after 16th August 2010 from Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts of Maharashtra. The Ministry had also referred this matter to the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP).

(b) to (f) The State Government of Maharashtra has requested Government of India to withdraw the moratorium, imposed for consideration of proposals under the EIA Notification, 2006. While WGEEP has submitted its report, Ministry has constituted a High Level Working Group (HLWG) under the Chairmanship of Dr. K Kasturirangan, Member, Planning Commission to examine the WGEEP Report in a holistic and multidisciplinary manner keeping in view the comments received from different State Governments/Central Ministries/Stakeholders and other related important aspects such as preservation of precious biodiversity, needs and aspirations of the local people, sustainable development and environmental integrity of the region, climate change and to recommend further

course of action. The tenure of HLWG is upto 31.3.2013. An appropriate view in the matter will be taken after the receipt of the report of HLWG.

REDUCTION OF CONTOURS OF KOLLERU LAKE IN ANDHRA PRADESH 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2328 SMT T.RATNA BAI: SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has objected to the reduction of contours of Kolleru lake in Andhra Pradesh from 5 to

3; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor ; and (c) the steps being taken to amend the wildlife acts for this purpose?


(a) & (b) The Expert Committee on Conservation of Kolleru Lake Sanctuary (ECCKLS), constituted in pursuance of the decision taken by the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife, in their report indicated that it was not advisable to reduce the area of the Kolleru Lake Sanctuary from +5 contours to +3 contours as this was not a viable solution for the socio-economic and ecological issues confronting the stakeholders including local communities dependent on the Kolleru lake.

The Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife accepted the report of the ECCKLS in its meeting held on 25th April 2011. Ministry has communicated the recommendation of the Standing Committee to Government of Andhra Pradesh.

(c) Presently, there is no proposal to amend the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 for this purpose.

COUNTING OF BIRDS AND ANIMALS 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2329 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the procedure adopted by the department to identify the forest cover area and how frequently the

survey is conducted and the latest figure; (b) whether the counting of birds and animals in the forest is accurate; and (c) if so, the latest figure of species of tigers, lions, elephants, leopards and birds in India?


(a) The Forest Survey of India is entrusted with the mandate of forest cover mapping of the country and the findings are published in India State of Forest Report (ISFR) biennially. The assessment of forest cover is done using Digital Image Processing (DIP) technique by interpretation of Indian Remote Sensing satellite data. The forest cover

includes all lands having trees with canopy density of more than ten percent (10%) over the areas one hectare and more irrespective of its land use. State/Union Territoty-wise details of forest cover as per ISFR 2011 are given in the Annexure. (b) The census of major species like tiger, lion and elephant are undertaken periodically by the concerned State Governments based on scientific protocols available and the possibility of variation in population estimates cannot be ruled out. (c) As per the information available in the Ministry, the population of Lions, Tigers and Elephants estimated in the last census operation undertaken is as follows:

Species Population estimate as per the last census

The last Census operation undertaken during the year

Tiger 1706 2010 Lion 411 2010 Elephant 27694 2007-08

The population estimate of leopard and birds are not collected in the Ministry.

ANNEXURE

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2329 REGARDING ‘COUNTING OF BIRDS AND ANIMALS’ BY SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA DUE FOR REPLY ON 19.3.2013. State/Union Territory-wise details of forest cover as per ISFR 2011:

(Area in sq km) State/UT Geog.

Area Forest Cover in 2011 Forest cover as

percentage of geographical

area (%)

Very Dense Forest

Mod. Dense Forest

Open Forest

Total

Andhra Pradesh 275069 850 26242 19297 46389 16.86 Arunachal Pradesh 83743 20868 31519 15023 67410 80.50 Assam 78438 1444 11404 14825 27673 35.28 Bihar 94163 231 3280 3334 6845 7.27 Chhattisgarh 135191 4163 34911 16600 55674 41.18 Delhi 1483 7 49 120 176 11.87 Goa 3702 543 585 1091 2219 59.94 Gujarat 196022 376 5231 9012 14619 7.46 Haryana 44212 27 457 1124 1608 3.64 Himachal Pradesh 55673 3224 6381 5074 14679 26.37 Jammu & Kashmir 222236 4140 8760 9639 22539 10.14 Jharkhand 79714 2590 9917 10470 22977 28.82 Karnataka 191791 1777 20179 14238 36194 18.87 Kerala 38863 1442 9394 6464 17300 44.52 Madhya Pradesh 308245 6640 34986 36074 77700 25.21 Maharashtra 307713 8736 20815 21095 50646 16.46 Manipur 22327 730 6151 10209 17090 76.54 Meghalaya 22429 433 9775 7067 17275 77.02 Mizoram 21081 134 6086 12897 19117 90.68 Nagaland 16579 1293 4931 7094 13318 80.33 Orissa 155707 7060 21366 20477 48903 31.41

Punjab 50362 0 736 1028 1764 3.50 Rajasthan 342239 72 4448 11567 16087 4.70 Sikkim 7096 500 2161 698 3359 47.34 Tamil Nadu 130058 2948 10321 10356 23625 18.16 Tripura 10486 109 4686 3182 7977 76.07 Uttar Pradesh 240928 1626 4559 8153 14338 5.95 Uttarakhand 53483 4762 14167 5567 24496 45.80 West Bengal 88752 2984 4646 5365 12995 14.64 A&N Islands 8249 3761 2416 547 6724 81.51 Chandigarh 114 1 10 6 17 14.91 Dadra & Nagar Haveli

491 0 114 97 211 42.97

Daman & Diu 112 0 0.62 5.53 6 5.36 Lakshadweep 32 0 17.18 9.88 27 84.37 Puducherry 480 0 35.37 14.69 50 10.42 Grand Total 3287263 83471 320736 287820 692027 21.05

RELOCATION OF THE SETTLEMENT AREAS IN NATIONAL PARKS IN ASSAM 19th March, 2011 LSQ 2330 SHRI KUMAR DEEPAK DAS: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has taken any steps to relocate the settlement areas from the various National

Parks in Assam as the presence of people inside the park is contrary to the Rule and Regulations and it is also affecting the wild life;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; and (d) the details of the re-plantation activities inside forest cover area?


(a) No financial assistance has been provided by the Central Government to the State Government of Assam for relocation of the settlements from the National Parks in Assam.

(b),(c)&(d) Does not arise. CONSERVATION OF ENDANGERED SPECIES OF PLANTS AND ANIMALS IN J& K

19th March, 2013 RSQ 2331 SHRI G. N. RATANPURI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether any study has been conducted to identify endangered species of plants and animals in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K);

(b) whether unregulated tourism and human interference in the fragile ecology of J & K is perceived as a future environment challenge; and

(c) whether Government is satisfied with the efforts made to protect and conserve endangered life form particularly Hangul, the Kashmir stag?


(a) Yes. Sir.

(b) Yes. Sir. Increasing tourism, rapid development and different type of human interference in the fragile ecology of the State of J&K are perceived as causative factors of environmental degradation and future environmental challenges. (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests and the State Government of J&K have been making several efforts to conserve endangered species of the State with technical support from many scientific institutions and conservation organizations. The Government is satisfied with the efforts made to protect endangered life forms in the State. To protect the last surviving population of the Hangul, the Kashmir stag, the State Government has been regularly monitoring its population with technical support from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) since 2004 and also conducting surveys in remnant sites with support from the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI). The Ministry of Environment and Forests developed the Hangul Recovery Programme with the technical support of WII and is providing financial support the State Government for its implementation. Further in pursuance to the decision of Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife, a sub-group has been constituted by the Ministry to specifically consider and advice conservation of Hangul species.

ALLOCATION AND UTILISATION OF FUNDS IN ASSAM 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2332 SMT NAZNIN FARUQUE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the details of funds allocated and spent in Assam by the Ministry and its various organizations during

the last three years and the current year,so far; (b) the details of purposes for which these funds were given and spent; and (c) the steps being taken to increase allocation of these funds?


(a)to (c): The Ministry of Environment and Forests and organizations under its administrative purview provide funds to various States, including Assam, under various Plan schemes. Out of the Central Plan outlays approved for the Ministry in any financial year, Scheme-wise allotment is made depending on overall priorities, objectives and projected needs under the Scheme. Increase in allocation of funds to any State under any Scheme in turn depends on a multiplicity of factors, including allocation of required State’s contribution from its financial resources as applicable under the Scheme concerned, furnishing by the State Government of utilization certificates and progress reports on funds sanctioned earlier by the Central Government, and demand for funds based on the proposed activities and works in the State. The total Central Plan budgetary outlay approved for the Ministry of Environment and Forests for 2013-14 is `2,430/- crore, as compared to `1,800/- crore in 2012-13 (RE). The details of funds

allocated and spent in Assam along with their purposes in the last three years and current year,so far, are as given in tabular statement below:

(`crore) S.No. Schemes/Purposes 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 (till

31.01.2013) 1 Biosphere ReservesScheme 0.50 1.05 0.40 0.50 2 National Afforestation Programme 14.48 6.08 7.95 1.47 3 Green India Mission 1.30 4 Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats 1.14 1.86 2.34 1.46 5 Project Elephant 1.60 1.39 2.00 2.50 6 Intensification of ForestManagement Scheme 3.60 2.02 2.46 0.00 7 Environmental Education and Awareness 1.86 1.75 1.81 1.58 DESTRUCTION OF FORESTS DUE TO SOIL EROSION 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2333 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to State:

(a) whether the Ministry is aware that due to land erosion in hilly States, the dense forests in the country are getting destroyed;

(b) if so, whether the Ministry would give any suggestion to States to build check dams in these areas to protect these dense forests;

(c) if not, whether Ministry has any alternative scheme to protect these dense forests; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Ministry has not received any specific report/information about destruction of dense forests due to land erosion in hilly States. However, soil erosion including landslides do cause damage to the forests. (b) to (d) The soil and water conservation works including the construction of check dams are undertaken under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes such as National Afforestation Programme (NAP), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), 13th Finance Commission and also under different State Plan/ Non-Plan schemes including externally aided projects etc.

CLOSURE OF INDUSTRIAL UNITS BY CPCB 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2334 SHRI A. A. JINNAH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to refer to answer to the Unstarred Questions, 1074 and 1447 given in the Rajya Sabha on 29th November, 2007 and 13th March, 2008, respectively and state:

(a) whether Government is aware that a Writ Petition No. 15574/2008 filed by M/s. Natraj Tiles in Allahabad High Court against its closure order has been dismissed by the Hon'ble High Court on 24 November, 2011;

(b) whether despite the dismissal of petition by Allahabad High Court, this industrial unit along with another industrial unit M/s. Govind and Sons are still running in the same premises; and

(c) if so, the action Government and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) propose to take for the closure of such units?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) As reported by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB), the petition was dismissed for non prosecution; the M/s Natraj Tiles has filed a restoration application on 25.11.2011 before Hon’ble High Court, which is pending for disposal. During an inspection by the UPPCB on 13.03.2013, M/s Natraj Tiles was found closed for about 7-8 months. However, M/s Govind and Sons was found operational in the same premises. The closure order against M/s Natraj Tiles is still operative on account of vacation of interim stay. The process of taking action against M/s Govind and Sons is being examined by the UPPCB under the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974/ Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. PETROCHEMICAL PLANT IN UTTAR PRADESH 9th March, 2013 RSQ 2335 SHRI DARSHAN SINGH YADAV: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether any steps have been taken or proposed to be taken to preserve flora and fauna from being destroyed within the 10 Kms periphery of Pata Petrochemical Plant of GAIL situated at Divyapur in Auraiya district of Uttar Pradesh and save thousands of poor patients, affected by pollution, from dying; and

(b) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) M/s. GAIL India Ltd. At Auraiya inUttar Pradesh have taken a number of steps to preserve flora and fauna and to prevent impacts on the local people within 10 kms periphery of Pata Petrochemical Plant. These measures include: plantation of native plant species in an area of 180 ha around the petrochemical complex; control of air emissions within the prescribed standards and regular monitoring of environment quality. EROSION OF SEA-SHORES IN THE COUNTRY 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2336 DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the coastal areas have become more vulnerable to sea/beach erosion in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has taken any steps to check the erosion of the sea-shores in Andhra Pradesh; (d) if so, the details thereof during the last three years and the current year; and (e) if not, the reaction of Government thereto?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The National Center for Sustainable Coastal Management, Chennai in association with the Institute of Ocean Management, Anna University, Chennai has conducted a study regarding “assessment of shore line change for the entire coast of mainland India, extending from Gujarat in the West coast to West Bengal in the East coast”. The shoreline change was assessed for a period of 38 years from 1972 – 2010. Accordingly, the coastline of India has been classified into high, medium and low erosion stretches as well as stable coast. The study has revealed that on an average around 40% of the Indian coast is subjected to coastal erosion (either high, medium or low). The study also reveals that out of 1008 kms. long coastline of Andhra Pradesh, about 82.27 kms. falls under “high erosion zone”, 63.7 kms. under “medium erosion zone ” and 88.7 kms. under “low erosion zone”. (c) to (e) The development activities along the coastal areas are regulated as per the provisions of the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2011. The Notification prohibits developments in high eroding stretches of the coast, except those projects classified as strategic and defence related. In medium/ low eroding stretches and stable coasts, developments like foreshore facilites are permitted only with shore protection measures viz. beach nourishment, sand by-passing and regular monitoring of shore lines. MONITORING OF HIGHLY POLLUTED INDUSTRIES BY CPCB 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2337 SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) wheher the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) monitors the highly pollutant industries of the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the effective steps taken or being taken by Government to check pollution caused by these highly pollutant

factories? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has identified 17 categories of Highly Polluting Industries (HPI). These industries are being periodically monitored by State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to verify their compliance with respect to the prescribed standards. The status of pollution control compliance of these HPIs, State-wise and Category-wise is given at Annexure I and II. (c) Based on the monitoring and inspections, the SPCBs are taking actions against non-complying industries. The action taken by SPCBs under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 is given at Annexure – III. The CPCB also undertakes surprise inspections of the industries under its Environmental Surveillance Squad Programme. The action taken by the CPCB during the last three years and in the current year is given at Annexure – IV. ANNEXURE- I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) & (B) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2337 DUE FOR REPLY ON 19.03.2013 REGARDING MONITORING OF HIGHLY POLLUTED INDUSTRIES BY CPCB RAISED BY SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI

STATEWISE STATUS OF 17 CATEGORIES OF HIGHLY POLLUTING INDUSTRIES (AS ON AUGUST 31, 2012)

Sl No State Complying Non Complying Closed Total 1 Andhra Pradesh 357 78 31 466 2 Arunachal Pradesh 2 0 0 2 3 Assam 20 4 0 24 4 Bihar 19 2 2 23 5 Chattisgarh 71 6 1 78 6 Daman & Diu 2 0 1 3 7 Delhi 2 0 0 2 8 Goa 14 0 1 15 9 Gujarat 302 7 8 317 10 Haryana 112 20 13 145 11 H.P. 16 2 3 21 12 Jharkhand 19 7 3 29 13 Jammu & Kashmir 7 0 3 10 14 Karnataka 123 22 16 161 15 Kerala 23 13 15 51 16 Madhya Pradesh 65 16 2 83 17 Maharashtra 325 206 59 590 18 Meghalaya 13 1 0 14 19 Mizoram 1 0 0 1 20 Orissa 37 17 11 65 21 Puducherry 5 2 0 7 22 Punjab 50 18 18 86 23 Rajasthan 90 32 31 153 24 Sikkim 0 1 0 1 25 Tamil Nadu 210 10 11 231 26 Tripura 11 2 2 15 27 Uttar Pradesh 278 45 78 401 28 Uttarakhand 27 19 3 49 29 West Bengal 48 66 15 129

Total 2249 596 327 3172 ANNEXURE- II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) & (B) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2337 DUE FOR REPLY ON 19.03.2013 REGARDING MONITORING OF HIGHLY POLLUTED INDUSTRIES BY CPCB RAISED BY SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI CATEGORY-WISE STATUS OF 17 CATEGORIES OF HIGHLY POLLUTING INDUSTRIES (AS ON AUGUST 31, 2012)

Sl No

Sector Complying Non Complying Closed Total

1 Aluminium 9 1 1 11 2 Cement 214 30 11 255 3 Chlor Alkali 27 2 2 31 4 Copper 4 1 1 6 5 Distillery 197 80 40 317 6 Dye & DI 130 8 18 156 7 Fertilizers 85 7 24 116 8 Iron & Steel 70 64 4 138 9 Oil Refinery 18 5 0 23 10 Pesticide 85 6 12 103 11 Petrochemical 42 1 4 47 12 Pharmaceutical 561 58 43 662 13 Power Plant 203 87 10 300 14 Pulp & Paper 175 34 34 243 15 Sugar 324 189 89 602 16 Tannery 100 22 34 156 17 Zinc 5 1 0 6

Total 2249 596 327 3172

ANNEXURE- III REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (C) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2337 DUE FOR REPLY ON 19.03.2013 REGARDING MONITORING OF HIGHLY POLLUTED INDUSTRIES BY CPCB RAISED BY SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI Direction issued under Section 33 A of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and 31 A of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 by the State Board / Committee (during last three year and in the current year (2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12 and 2012-13) against the non-complying industries

S. No State Boards/ Committees Total

1 Andhra Pradesh 2848 2 Arunachal Pradesh 4 3 Assam 81 4 Bihar 155 5 Chandigarh 39 6 Chhattisgarh 200 7 Delhi 479 8 Goa 365 9 Gujarat 7113 10 Haryana 3391 11 Himachal Pradesh 315 12 Jharkhand 693 13 Karnataka 202 14 Kerala 98 15 Madhya Pradesh 622 16 Maharashtra 696 17 Meghalaya 86 18 Mizoram 30 19 Nagaland 1 20 Puducherry 92 21 Punjab 1002 22 Rajasthan 1425 23 Sikkim 3 24 Tripura 7 25 Uttar Pradesh 719 26 Uttarakhand 129 27 West Bengal 753

Total 21548 ANNEXURE- IV REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (C) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2337 DUE FOR REPLY ON 19.03.2013 REGARDING MONITORING OF HIGHLY POLLUTED INDUSTRIES BY CPCB RAISED BY SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI Summary of Directions issued during last Three Years & Current Year

Year

No. of directions issued to the units under Section 5 of E(P)A,1986

No. of directions issued to the SPCBs/PCCs for units under Section 18(1)(b) of the Water/ Air Acts

No. of Directions for compliance

No. of directions for Closure Total No. of Directions

for compliance No. of directions

for Closure Total

During 2009-10 10 9 19 27 4 31 During 2010-11 62 17 79 28 5 33 During 2011-12 79 18 97 48 6 54 During 2012-13 (till Dec

31, 2012) 102 41 143 30 8 38

Total 253 85 338 133 23 156 Note- The above details include directions/notices issued in case of inspections carried out under National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) activities also.

MOST POLLUTED CITIES IN THE COUNTRY 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2338 SHRI SHANTA KUMAR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the cities of the country where air pollution is found to be maximum; and (b) the concrete steps taken by Government to curb the adverse effects of air pollution in these cities?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a): National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) were notified in November, 2009 with criteria for 12 pollutants. Out of these, three pollutants, namely, Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), PM10 (particles having aerodynamic diameter less than or, equal to 10 micron) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) are monitored under National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP) at 542 locations in 223 cities, towns and industrial areas across the country. The data is collated and compiled by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). As per analysis of data for three years (i.e., 2008-09, 2009-10 and 2010-2011), levels of SO2 (annual average) is not exceeded the standards in any city. However, NO2 and PM10 have exceeded the standards in a number of cities monitored: it is the maximum level of NO2 in one city whereas, PM10 in another city. Therefore, it is not possible to name a city having maximum air pollution. (b) Steps taken by the Central Government for control air pollution include formulation of a Comprehensive Policy for Abatement of Pollution, supply of improved auto–fuel, tightening of vehicular and industrial emission norms, mandatory environmental clearance for specified industries, management of municipal, hazardous and bio-medical wastes, promotion of cleaner technologies, strengthening the network of air quality monitoring stations, assessment of pollution load, source apportionment studies, preparation and implementation of action plans for major cities & critically polluted areas, public awareness etc. ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE TO CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW DAM IN MAHARASHTRA 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2339 SHRI ISHWARLAL SHANKARLAL JAIN : Will the Minister of ENVRIONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the State Government of Maharashtra has submitted any proposal seeking environmental clearance with regard to construction of a new Dam under upper Panganga Irrigation Project Stage-II (Sapli Dam) at Tehsil Kalamnuri, District Hingoli in Maharashtra;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Central Government is likely to grant approval to the proposal of the said dam at the

earliest; and (d) if so, the details thereof?


(a) & (b) In the year 2009, the Government of Maharashtra had submitted the Upper Penganga Irrigation Project Stage-II (Sapli Dam) in Hingoli and Nanded Districts of Maharashtra to the Ministry of Environment and Forests for seeking environmental clearance (EC) under Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006. The project was considered and appraised under the provisions of the EIA Notification, 2006 by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) constituted for River Valley & Hydroelectric Projects in its various meetings. It has been observed that public hearing for Hingoli District has not been conducted in the manner prescribed in the EIA Notification, 2006. Accordingly, the State Government has been requested to conduct public hearing in the Hingoli District. (c) & (d) The case for environment clearance to the project could be examined only after the receipt of complete and proper Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Report and other relevant information including report of public hearing.

HUMAN LOSSES DUE TO WILD ANIMALS 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2340 DR. YOGENDRA P. TRIVEDI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government is of the opinion that loss of human lives due to attacks by animals should not

increase now and it is necessary to take measures to stop the menace of wild animal’s entry to human habitats;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor;

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b) & (c) Yes. Sir. The Ministry also consider that the loss of human lives due to attacks by animals should not increase. Following measures are being taken to prevent the menace of wild animal’s entry to human habitats:

1. Financial assistance is provided to the State Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz., ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’, ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ for improvement of forest and wildlife areas like the national parks and sanctuaries to augment food and water availability in forests which can reduce migration of animals from forests to the habitations.

2. Construction of barriers like boundary walls and solar-powered electric fences around the sensitive areas to prevent the wild animal attacks. These activities are also permissible under the Central assistance.

3. Development of necessary infrastructure and support facilities for immobilization of the identified

problematic animals through tranquilization, and their relocation to the natural habitat or rehabilitation in rescue centers.

4. The Chief Wildlife Wardens of the States/Union Territories are empowered to permit hunting of problematic animals under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

5. Programmes are launched to sensitize people and create awareness about the Do's and Don’ts in case of scare and attacks of wild animals.

6. Eco-development activities are undertaken in villages around Protected Areas to elicit the cooperation of communities in management of the Protected Areas, which includes actions to address the grievances of people regarding human-wildlife conflicts.

IMPLEMENTATION OF NLCP IN U.P.

19th March, 2013 RSQ 2341 SHRI KIRANMAY NANDA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has identified lakes in our country for restoration under National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP);

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) The details and progress of lake conservation work going on in Uttar Pradesh under this scheme?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A list of lakes identified for conservation under the National Lake Conservation Plan, was prepared and sent to the State Governments for prioritization of water bodies in their States. Out of the proposals received, the Ministry sanctioned projects for conservation of 61 lakes in 14 States of the country, for a total cost of Rs.1031.18 crore. These proposals were considered on the basis of prioritization of water bodies by the States, conformity with NLCP guidelines and availability of Plan funds. (c) In the State of Uttar Pradesh, projects for conservation of Mansi Ganga in Mathura and Ramgarh Tal in Gorakhpur were sanctioned under the scheme, at a cost of Rs.22.71 crore & Rs.124.32 crore respectively. These projects are in different stages of implementation. ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEM ON RIVER AND RIVER-BED 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2342 SHRI BASAWARAJ PATIL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether haphazard utilization of sand which is creating severe environmental problem on river and river-bed of the country; and

(b) the details of steps taken to stop environmental pollution on river-side and river-bed? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) & (b): Sand other than used for prescribed purposes, being a minor mineral for which all powers of regulation are empowered to the State Governments concerned under section 15 of the Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act, 1957 the respective State Governments are required to frame rules for sand mining. The projects of sand mining require prior environment clearance under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. FIELD TRIAL OF GM PLANTS IN THE COUNTRY 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2343

SHRI K N BALAGOPAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has allowed field trial of Genetically Modified (GM) plants in Agriculture sector in India;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether any scientific study has been done on the effect of the GM food on human body; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Yes Sir, The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), apex body notified under Rules 1989 has approved experimental field trials for the purpose of biosafety research and event selection in respect of GM crops such as cotton, rice, tomato, groundnut, potato, corn, sorghum, okra, brinjal, mustard, wheat, watermelon, papaya, sugarcane, rubber, castor, banana, pigeon pea, Artemisia annua L. and Chickpea. Out of the 20 crops approved, field trials of only transgenic cotton, corn and mustard were initiated after obtaining NOC from the State Government. In respect of other crops, NOC from the State Governments are awaited. Currently there are no ongoing field trials with GM crops. (c ) & (d) The Government of India is following a policy of case by case approval of genetically modified (GM) crops. In view of various concerns related to the safety, efficacy and agronomic performance of transgenic seeds, extensive evaluation and regulatory approval process takes place before any GM plant is approved for commercial cultivation. This includes generation of relevant biosafety information and its elaborate analysis to ensure food, feed and environmental safety. The environmental safety assessment includes studies on pollen escape out- crossing, aggressiveness and weediness, effect of the gene on non-target organisms, presence of protein in soil and its effect on soil micro-flora, confirmation of the absence of terminator gene and baseline susceptibility studies. The food and feed safety studies include assessment on composition analysis, allergenicity and toxicological studies and feeding studies on fish, chicken, cows and buffaloes. In case, the transgenic crop is not found suitable for release in the environment or human consumption, the product is rejected during the trial stage itself. A final view on the commercialization of GM plants is taken only when there is a clear economic and technical justification for release of the product. RELAXATION IN ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR PROJECTS REQUIRING FOREST LAND 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2344 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has decided to relax environmental clearance norms for projects requiring forest land;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; (c) whether any adverse impact on environment is likely to take place in the event of such relaxations; (d) if so, the reaction of Government thereto; (e) whether Government has formulated any guidelines so as to reduce the diversion of forest land; and (f) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d): The guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) provide that in case a project involves forest land, the project proponent shall first explore feasibility to execute the project without use of forest land. In case it is not feasible to undertake the project without use of forest land, the project proponent shall submit application seeking prior approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land before submitting the application for grant of Terms of Reference as per the procedure stipulated in the EIA Notification 2006. The Environment clearance to such projects, as per the said guidelines is to be issued only after stage-I approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land required for its execution is obtained. The Ministry received representations from various stakeholders to delink grant of environmental clearance from forest clearance in case of linear projects such as roads, transmission lines, pipelines, etc. involving patches of forest land along their alignment, often stretching to several hundred kilometres, in view of the operational problem being faced by them in execution of such projects. The Hon’ble Supreme Court has allowed the MoEF to relax the said guidelines to issue Environment Clearance (with suitable safeguards) to linear projects such as roads, pipelines etc., pending grant of stage-I approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for non-forest use of forest land required for execution of such linear projects. While revising the guidelines for such projects, appropriate safeguards will be stipulated to ensure that there is no adverse impact on environment on account of such relaxation. (e) & (f): Section 2 of the F(C) Act, 1980 inter alia provides that notwithstanding anything contained in any other law for the time being in force in a State, no State Government or other authority shall make, except with the prior approval of the Central Government, any order directing any forest land or any portion thereof may be used for any non-forest purpose. Approvals under the F(C) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land are accorded in accordance with the procedure stipulated in the F(C) Act, 1980, the F(C) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines issued thereunder. Such approvals are accorded only if the diversion of forest land is unavoidable and the area proposed to be diverted is bare-minimum, after examining all feasible alternatives. RELAXATION IN ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR PROJECTS REQUIRING FOREST LAND 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2344 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has decided to relax environmental clearance norms for projects requiring forest land;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; (c) whether any adverse impact on environment is likely to take place in the event of such relaxations; (d) if so, the reaction of Government thereto; (e) whether Government has formulated any guidelines so as to reduce the diversion of forest land; and (f) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d): The guidelines issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) provide that in case a project involves forest land, the project proponent shall first explore feasibility to execute the project without use of forest

land. In case it is not feasible to undertake the project without use of forest land, the project proponent shall submit application seeking prior approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land before submitting the application for grant of Terms of Reference as per the procedure stipulated in the EIA Notification 2006. The Environment clearance to such projects, as per the said guidelines is to be issued only after stage-I approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land required for its execution is obtained. The Ministry received representations from various stakeholders to delink grant of environmental clearance from forest clearance in case of linear projects such as roads, transmission lines, pipelines, etc. involving patches of forest land along their alignment, often stretching to several hundred kilometres, in view of the operational problem being faced by them in execution of such projects. The Hon’ble Supreme Court has allowed the MoEF to relax the said guidelines to issue Environment Clearance (with suitable safeguards) to linear projects such as roads, pipelines etc., pending grant of stage-I approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for non-forest use of forest land required for execution of such linear projects. While revising the guidelines for such projects, appropriate safeguards will be stipulated to ensure that there is no adverse impact on environment on account of such relaxation. (e) & (f): Section 2 of the F(C) Act, 1980 inter alia provides that notwithstanding anything contained in any other law for the time being in force in a State, no State Government or other authority shall make, except with the prior approval of the Central Government, any order directing any forest land or any portion thereof may be used for any non-forest purpose. Approvals under the F(C) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land are accorded in accordance with the procedure stipulated in the F(C) Act, 1980, the F(C) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines issued thereunder. Such approvals are accorded only if the diversion of forest land is unavoidable and the area proposed to be diverted is bare-minimum, after examining all feasible alternatives. GREEN INDIA SCHEME 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2346 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether any scheme called Green India is being run by the Ministry; (b) if so, the States in which this scheme is being run; and (c) the quantum of funds allocated to States under this scheme, state-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b) and (c ) Yes, Sir. The National Mission for Green India is a new initiative by the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the National Action Plan for Climate Change (NAPCC) which is implemented throughout the country. The mission aims to increase forest & tree cover on 5 million ha area, improve quality of forest cover on another 5 million ha area, ameliorate forest based livelihood of local communities and also to improve ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity & hydrological services. During 2011-12 Rs.49.94 crores was released to 21 States for carrying out preparatory activities under the Green India Mission. The state-wise details are given in the Annexure.

Annexure ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION No. 2346 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 19.03.2013 REGARDING GREEN INDIA SCHEME.

Statement of funds released during 2011-12 under Green India Mission.

S.No. Name of State Funds released (Rs. in Lakhs)

1 Maharashtra 405.77 2 Jharkhand 147.00 3 Kerala 194.60 4 Tamail Nadu 72.15 5 Gujarat 133.80 6 Rajasthan 275.25 7 Himachal Pradesh 126.50 8 Jammu & Kashmir 64.00 9 Orrisa 107.50 10 Punjab 125.50 11 Haryana 357.00 12 Chhattisgarh 972.00 13 Assam 130.00 14 Andhra Pradesh 89.53 15 Manipur 40.50 16 Nagaland 141.50 17 Tripura 350.50 18 Karnataka 267.45 19 Madhya Pradesh 823.50 20 Uttar Pradesh 119.50 21 Uttarakhand 51.00

Total 4994.55 IDENTIFICATION OF ANIMAL SPECIES ON VERGE OF EXTINCTION 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2347 SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has conducted any survey to identify the species of animals which are on verge of extinction;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons for the extinction of these species; (c) whether Government proposes to undertake new projects for the conservation of birds and extinct

species in the country; (d) if so, the details of the projects and the budgetary allocation made for this purpose during the last three

years; and (e) the steps taken by Government for the conservation of these endangered species and the achievements

made thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Zoological Survey of India conducts exploration and status survey of faunal resources of the country and based on the same, animal species that are on the verge of extinction are identified. On the basis of recommendation received from the Zoological Survey of India, the Ministry takes necessary measures for protection and conservation of such species. In addition, in pursuance of the decision taken in the meeting of the National Board for Wildlife held on 01.11.2007, two subcommittees of experts were formed to assess and prioritize species under threat of extinction and suggest guidelines for their recovery. These committees identified 8 terrestrial and 9 marine species for conservation action.

There are several reasons for extinction of a species. However the main reasons are habitat destruction, small population, hunting of animals for commercial purpose, Increased Competition, global warming, starvation etc. (c ) &(d) The Ministry provides financial assistance to State Governments for undertaking “Recovery Programmes for saving critically endangered species” as a component of the existing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’. Budget is not allocated separately for this component. At present, sixteen species have been prioritized for taking up such recovery programmes which include Snow Leopard, Bustards (including Floricans), River Dolphin, Hangul, Nilgiri Tahr, Marine Turtles, Dugongs and coral reefs, Edible-nest Swiftlets, Asian Wild Buffalo, Nicobar Megapode, Manipur Brow-antlered deer, Vultures, Malabar civet, the great one-horned rhinoceros, Asiatic Lion, Swamp deer and Jerdon’s Courser. Presently there is no proposal with the Government to launch any new projects in this regard. Under the component “Recovery Programmes for Saving Critically Endangered Species” of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats” (CSS-IDWH) financial assistance has been provided for eight critically endangered species including Snow Leopard, Hangul, Dugongs, Edible-nest Swiftlets, Asian Wild Buffalo, Manipur Brow-antlered deer, Vultures and Asiatic Lion as per the proposals received from various State/Union Territory Governments. No dedicated allocation is made for this purpose as it is one of the components of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme. The details of financial assistance released to the State/Union Territory Governments for undertaking Recovery Programmes for saving critically endangered species under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats” during the last three years are as follows:

Year Amount released (Rs. in lakhs)

2009-10 72.95 2010-11 858.593 2011-12 788.317

(e) The steps taken by the Government for protection of endangered species of wild animals in the country include:


ii. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, provides for punishment of offences for violation of its provisions. The Act also provides for forfeiture of any equipment, vehicle or weapon that is used for committing wildlife offence(s).



v. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to strengthen the enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.

vi. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been empowered under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to apprehend and prosecute wildlife offenders.

vii. The State/Union Territory Governments have been requested to strengthen the field formations and intensify patrolling in and around the Protected Areas.


The periodic assessments carried out in respect of prioritized species, rhinoceros and lion, have indicated improvement in their population status. TOURISM ACTIVITIES IN CORE AREAS OF TIGER RESERVES 19th March, 2013

RSQ 2348 SHRI C.M. RAMESH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether tourism activities have been allowed in core areas of Tiger Reserves across the country after lifting of ban by Supreme Court; and

(b) if so, the details of guidelines issued by the Ministry in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A set of comprehensive guidelines has been issued under section 38O-1(c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for Project Tiger and Tourism in Tiger Reserves, which allows regulated tourism in core areas of Tiger Reserves. The guidelines are available in public domain at www.projecttiger.nic.in. SCHEMES UNDER FOREST CONSERVATION ACT FOR MADHYA PRADESH 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2349 SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the names of the schemes of the State Government of Madhya Pradesh under the Forest Conservation Act which are under consideration with the Central Government;

(b) the steps taken by Central Government for their speedy clearance; and (c) the details of the action taken by the Government till date?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) ( a) to (c) Details of proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land in Madhya Pradesh which are presently under consideration of the Central Government along with details of action taken by the Central Government on these proposals till date is annexed. The Central Government is taking action on these proposals as per the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines issued under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.

ANNEXURE ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2349 BY SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA REGARDING ‘SCHEMES UNDER FOREST CONSERVATION ACT FOR MADHYA PRADESH’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 19.03.2013. Details of proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land in Madhya Pradesh which are presently under consideration of the Central Government (excluding the proposals in respect of which Central Government after examination of the proposals sought additional information/ documents from the State Government) along with details of action taken by the Central Government on these proposals till date

Sl. No. Details of Proposals Action taken by the MoEF till date 1 Diversion of 26.42 hectares of forest land in favour of Proposal has been examined by the State Advisory Group (SAG).

Executive Engineer, Water Resources Division for construction of Sidhbaba Tank Project

The proposal along with recommendation of the SAG is under scrutiny in the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF).

2 Diversion of 268.39 hectares of forest land in favour of Water Resources Department for construction of Datuni Dam Irrigation Project in Dewas District of Madhya Pradesh.

The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has recommended diversion of the forest land. The recommendation of the FAC is under consideration of the MoEF.

3 Diversion of 57.49 hectares of forest land in favour of Water Resources Department for construction of Bansujara Dam in Tikamgarh District of Madhya Pradesh.

Proposal is being placed before the FAC.

4 Proposal for reconsideration of the decision of Central Government to decline permission under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 154.91 hecatres of forest land in favour of Water Resources Department for construction of Runjh Medium Irrigation Project in Panna District, Madhya Pradesh.

Proposal is being placed before the FAC.

5 Proposal seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for undertaking prospecting operations by M/s. S.P.J. Steel & Minerals Ltd by drilling 46 bore holes of 4” dia. in 217.00 hectares of forest land located in Forest Compt. No. 307 in Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh.

The FAC has recommended grant of approval for prospecting activities. Recommendation of the FAC is under consideration of the MoEF.

6 Diversion of 332.73 hecatres of forest land in favour of M/s. SKS Ispat and Power Limited for coal mining in Rawanwara North Coal Block in Pench Kanhan Coalfield in Chhindwara district.

The Regional Office, Western Zone, Bhopal has been requested to inspect the forest land proposed to be diverted and submit a report to the MoEF.

7 Diversion of 115.685 hecatres of forest land in favour of M/s. Pushp Steel and Mining Private limited for coal mining in Brahmpuri Coal Block in Pench Kanhan Coalfield in Chhindwara district.

The Regional Office, Western Zone, Bhopal has inspected the forest land proposed to be diverted and submitted a report to the MoEF. Proposal along with the site inspection report is being placed before the FAC.

8 Diversion of 153.45412 hectares of forest land in favour of the National Highways Authority of India for rehabilitation and upgradation t0 4 lane configuration the Obaidullahganj -Betul Section of the NH-69.

The Regional Office, Western Zone, Bhopal has inspected the forest land proposed to be diverted and submitted a report to the MoEF. Proposal along with the site inspection report is being placed before the FAC.

9 Diversion of 7.84 hectares of forest land in favour of M/s. Welspun Energy Limited, for construction of 1980 MW Electro Thermal Project in Katni district.

Proposal along with recommendation of the State Advisory Committee (SAG) are under scrutiny in the MoEF.

10 Diversion of 110.811 hectares of forest land in favour of M/s. Madhya Pradesh State Mining Corporation Ltd. for underground coal mining in Shahdol district.

The FAC after examination of the proposal recommended that certain additional information be sought from the State Government. The proposal along with additional information received from the State Government is being placed before the FAC.

EXPLOITATION OF FORESTS IN HILLY AREAS 19th March, 2013 RSQ 2350 SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the forests of the entire country especially in the hilly areas are being indiscriminately exploited in the name of promoting tourism in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has formulated any scheme in this regard involving all the concerned States

to curb the same; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the steps taken by Government in this regard?


(a) & (b) No such reports that forests of the country especially in the hilly areas are being indiscriminately exploited in the name of promoting tourism have been received by this Ministry. No non-forestry activity is permitted in forest areas except with the prior permission of the Central Government as per the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980. In addition, recommendation of the National Board for Wildlife and permission of Hon’ble Supreme Court is required for any non forestry activity in the National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. Further, in cases of projects located in eco-sensitive zone around Protected Areas (National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries), recommendation of National Board for Wildlife is required for obtaining environment clearance. (c) to (e) The National Board for Wildlife has decided to regulate activities in the vicinity of Protected Areas by notifying areas as eco-sensitive zones. The National Tiger Conservation Authority has notified guidelines called “National Tiger Conservation Authority (Normative Standards for Tourism activities and Project Tiger) Guidelines 2012” for regulating eco tourism in Project Tiger areas. In addition, some States/UTs have also formulated policies to regulate eco-tourism in forest areas. These policies and guidelines provide for regulatory tourism without causing adverse impact on wildlife and its habitat. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AT ARANMULA IN KERALA 23rd April, 2013 RSQ *412 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Environmental Impact Assessment was done in the proposed Airport Project in Aranmula, Kerala; and

(b) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) & (b) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 412 on “Environmental Impact Assessment at Aranmula in Kerala” raised by Shri K.N. Balagopal to be answered on 23.04.2013. (a) & (b) The proposal for development of Airport at Mallappuzhasserry, Aranmula and Kidangannur villages, Kozhencherry Taluk, Patthanamthitta District, Kerala was considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) in its meeting held in September, 2010 and finalized Terms of Reference (ToR) for preparing Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report including conduct of Public Hearing. After the public hearing was conducted by the Kerala Pollution Control Board for the project, the project proponent has submitted final EIA report which addresses the likely impacts of development of the airport on the environment, including impacts on land, air, hydrology / drainage, ground water recharge, noise etc., The environment clearance for Airport is not yet granted. UPLOADING OF INFORMATION RELATING TO GRANT OF ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCES 23th April, 2013 RSQ *416 SHRI S. THANGAVELU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked Government to make it certain that all orders relating to granting of environment clearance are uploaded on its website within seven days of approval;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that this will help the public to challenge the approval within the stipulated

period of 30 days to be computed from the date on which approval is effectively communicated to the public; and

(d) if so, the steps taken by Government in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d): A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 416 DUE FOR REPLY ON 23.04.2013 RAISED BY SHRI S. THANGAVELU: ‘UPLOADING OF INFORMATION RELATING TO GRANT OF ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCES’. (a) to (d) The National Green Tribunal (NGT), in its order dated 14th March, 2013, in case of M.A. no. 104 of 2012 has issued directions which, inter-alia, state that the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) shall, within seven days from the date of passing of the order of Environment Clearance, upload it on its website and ensure that the same is accessible and can be downloaded without any delay or impediment. It would remain so uploaded on website for a period of at least 90 days. The date on which the order of environmental clearance is communicated to the public at large, shall be the date from which the period of limitation shall be taken into account. The environment clearances are uploaded on the Ministry’s website within seven days of their issuance, ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO SEA PORT AT VIZHNIJAM 23th April, 2013 RSQ *420 SHRI D. BANDYOPADHYAY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has given clearance to the construction of a sea port at Vizhnijam in Kerala, which

according to some environmentalists, is likely to cause an ecological disaster; and (b) if so, the manner in which approximately 20000 fishermen families of 11 nearby villages who are affected

by the project are going to be rehabilitated properly and also ensuring their livelihood? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) & (b) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 420 on “Environmental clearance to sea port at Vizhinjam” raised by Shri D. Bandyopadhyay to be answered on 23.04.2013. (a) & (b) The proposal for development of International Container Transshipment Terminal at Vizhinjam, Kerala by M/s Vizhinjam Port Ltd. was considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee in its meetings held in January, 2011, May, 2011, and June, 2011 and Terms of Reference (ToR) were finalised for further Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) studies, including conduct of Public Hearing as required under the EIA Notification, 2006.

In the meantime, various representations were received against the project alleging that the proponent has submitted false data, especially about the site and that the project will affect fishing activity, tourism resorts, etc. in the area. The representations were sent to Government of Kerala and the M/s Vizhinjam Port Ltd. for their comments. The Proponent has not yet submitted the final EIA report including the proposed Rehabilitation plan to consider the project for grant of environment and CRZ clearance. POACHING OF LEOPARDS 23th April, 2013 RSQ 3101 SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that every week more than four leopards are killed in India; (b) the current population of leopards in India; (c) the number of leopards poached during the last two years; (d) whether poaching of leopards is increasing at very fast rate; and (e) the steps taken by Government to protect the species?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Incidents of death of leopards do come to the notice of this Ministry. However, this Ministry does not have any report of killing of more than four leopards every week in the country. The information regarding population of leopard is not available in the Ministry as no nationwide census of leopard population has been undertaken in the country. (c) to (e) The details of poaching of leopards are not collected in the Ministry. However, there is no report with the Government indicating that the poaching of leopard is increasing. However, the Government has taken the following steps to protect wild animals including leopards in the country:

i. Legal protection has been provided to wild animals including leopards against hunting and commercial exploitation under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

ii. In addition to provision of stringent punishment for the offenders, the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 also provides for forfeiture of any equipment, vehicle or weapon that is used for committing wildlife offence(s).

iii. Protected Areas, viz., National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves covering important wildlife habitats have been created all over the country under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to conserve wild animals including leopards and their habitats.




vii. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to ensure co-ordination among various officers and State Governments in connection with the enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.


FLOW OF UNTREATED SEWAGE INTO WATER BODIES 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3102 SHRI S. THANGAVELU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that nearly 80 per cent of the sewage generated in India flows untreated into its rivers, lakes and ponds, turning the water sources too polluted to use;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that the untreated sewage flowing into water bodies has almost doubled from

around 12,000 million litres a day to 24,000 million litres a day in Class I and II towns; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) Pollution loads in the major rivers have been increasing over the years due to rapid urbanisation, industrialization and resultant wastewater generation. Extraction of water for irrigation, industrial, drinking purposes etc. leading to inadequate flows is compounding the problem. According to study of CPCB, against an estimated sewage generation of about 38254 million litres per day (mld) from the Class I cities & Class II towns of the country, the treatment capacity is available only for 11787 mld. IMPACT OF MOBILE TOWERS ON BIRDS 23th April, 2013 RSQ 3103 SMT MAYA SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the mushrooming of mobile towers in cities and towns and in the periphery of villages has resulted in the decrease in the number of bird species;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the details of the report of Dr. Asad Rahmani Expert Committee formed in 2010 to look into the effect

of mobile towers on birds? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests had constituted an ‘Expert Committee to study the possible impacts of communication towers on wildlife including Birds and Bees’ on 30th August 2010 under the chairmanship of Dr. Asad Rahmani, Director, Bombay Natural History Society. The report of the expert committee submitted to the Ministry in September 2011 confirms the adverse effects of electromagnetic radiations (EMR) from mobile phones and communication towers on the health of human beings. However, it also points out that exact co-relation between radiation of communication towers and health of wildlife is so far not established. The report also states that although existing literature depicts adverse effects of electromagnetic radiations (EMR) on the biological systems of living beings, more research is required to assess the true impact of EMR on free-living floral and faunal species, including birds and bees in the country.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO MINES IN ODISHA 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3104 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state whether it is a fact that environment clearance for the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) mines, Thakurani area Mines of Odisha Mineral Development Corporation (OMDC) and Bisra Lime Stone Quarry in Odisha are pending with the Ministry as a result of which many public sector mines have stopped their operations and thousands of poor workers have lost their jobs? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) The proposals for environmental clearance are considered and processed in line with the provisions under the Environment Impact Assessment notification, 2006 issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has granted environmental clearance to several mining projects of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), viz., Gua Iron Ore mine of West Singhbhum, Jharkhand; Rowghat Iron Ore Mine, Chhattisgarh; Bolani Iron Ore Mine, Odisha; Taldih-Barsua Iron Ore Mine, Odisha; Manoharpur Iron Ore Mine, West Singhbhum, Jharkhand etc. With regard to Thakurani mining project of Odisha Mineral Development Corporation (OMDC), additional information has been sought. As far as Bisra Lime Stone Quarry proposal is concerned, the same was placed in the Expert Appraisal Committee meeting held during April 16-18, 2013. ACCESS AND BENEFIT SHARING ARRANGEMENTS UNDER BIO-DIVERSITY ACT, 2002 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3105 SHRI N.K. SINGH: DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the access and benefits sharing arrangements under the Bio-diversity Act, 2002; (b) whether the access and benefit sharing arrangements will be modified in light of the ratification of the

Nagoya Protocol; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) As per the access and benefit sharing arrangements provided under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and Rules 2004, any foreign individual, institution or company desiring access to biological resources occurring in India or knowledge associated thereto for research, commercial utilisation or biosurvey and bioutilisation is required to seek prior approval of the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA). When granting approvals, NBA enters into benefit sharing agreement with the applicant imposing conditions which secure equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of biological resources and associated knowledge. These benefits may either be monetary or non-monetary in nature. Further, NBA approval is also required before seeking any intellectual property rights based on biological resource and associated knowledge obtained from India.

(b) & (c) The access and benefit sharing arrangements provided for in the Biological Diversity Act are broadly in compliance with the provisions of the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing, and would not require any amendment. FUNDS ALLOCATED FOR MINDHOLA RIVER IN GUJARAT UNDER NRCP 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3106 SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA: SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the quantum of funds allocated to State Government of Gujarat for Mindhola river of Surat under National River Conservation Project (NRCP) as on date;

(b) by when Government intends to complete this project; (c) whether the Central Government has received any communication for inclusion of Daman Ganga

River of Daman (Union Territory Area) under NRCP; and (d) if so, the details of further action taken by the Ministry in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A project for the conservation of Mindhola River at Surat has been sanctioned in August 2012 at an estimated cost of Rs. 262.13 crore with an implementation duration of 30 months. The Central Government has released an amount of Rs. 41.70 crore to the Surat Municipal Corporation, the implementing agency, as the first installment of its share in October 2012. (c) & (d) This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in pollution abatement in various rivers through the centrally sponsored National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). No proposal for abatement of pollution in river Daman Ganga at Daman has been received in this Ministry for consideration under the NRCP. ACTION PLAN FOR INDUSTRIAL CLUSTERS SCORING HIGH IN CEPI 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3107 SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry has any specific action plan and some extra budget for the industrial clusters scoring very high in the Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI);

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether there has ever been any survey conducted to monitor the effect of this high pollution level on

the people living in these industrial clusters and adjoining areas; and (d) if so, the details thereof?


(a) & (b) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi has carried out comprehensive environmental assessment in 88 prominent /major industrial clusters based on the Comprehensive Environment Pollution Index (CEPI) criteria in 2009. Out of the 88 industrial clusters, 43 industrial clusters with CEPI score 70 and above were identified as critically polluted areas. For restoration of environmental quality in the 43 critically polluted industrial clusters areas, State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)/Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) have prepared Action Plans. These Action Plans highlighted the pollution caused by different sources (domestic as well as industrial) and remedial measure, i.e. action plan envisages to mitigate the pollution caused by these sources. These action plans were finalized in light of suggestions of Steering Committee comprising national level experts and an in-house committee comprising senior officers of CPCB. So far, 39 action plans have been finalized. The implementation of these action plans would lead to improvement environmental quality of the 43 critically polluted areas. Financial assistance for establishment of common treatment facilities such as Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs), Common Bio-Medical Waste Treatment Facilities (CBMWTF) and Treatment Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs) and expansion of the National Ambient Air and Water Monitoring networks are available under the existing schemes of Union Government. (c) & (d) The CEPI is linked to public health in terms of presence of toxins and their concentration, exceedence factors, impact of human health and level of exposures. Health impact Assessment /Health Survey of Critically Polluted Areas (CPA) will be carried out, the funds for which will be based on Polluter Pays Principle. BLANKET BAN ON PLASTIC IN THE COUNTRY 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3108 SHRI PRABHAT JHA: SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH: SMT KUSUM RAI: SHRI ALOK TIWARI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government proposes for blanket ban on plastic throughout the country in view of the recent observation by Hon'ble Supreme Court regarding pollution due to plastic;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c): The Government has no proposal for blanket ban on plastic throughout the country. The Hon’ble Supreme Court vide order dated 03.04.2013 in SLP (C) No. 16308 of 2007 has, inter-alia, directed the Central Pollution Control Board, State Pollution Control Boards, Pollution Control Committees of Union Territories and some municipal corporations to file their respective status reports about compliance of the Plastic Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 and the Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000. IMPACT OF UNREGULATED EXCAVATION OF SAND AND MUCK FROM RIVERS IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR 23rd April, 2013

RSQ 3109 SHRI G.N. RATANPURI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the impact of unregulated excavation of sand and muck from rivers and rivulets in Jammu and Kashmir on environment;

(b) the number of centuries old irrigation canals rendered dry and useless as a consequence of this; (c) the names of the species of fish and other animals and plants endangered due to this unregulated

excavation; and (d) the steps taken/envisaged to arrest this unregulated excavation?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d): The information is being collected. CONSERVATION OF ANCIENT AND TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL PLANTS 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3110 SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the action taken by the Central Government in consultation with the State Governments for conservation of ancient and traditional medicinal plants and birds in forest areas, State-wise;

(b) the funds allocated in this regard during the last three years; and (c) whether any programme or plan has been implemented in Madhya Pradesh in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): With a purpose of conserving and promoting medicinal plants utilized in the traditional systems of medicines, the Government has set up a National Medicinal Plants Board vide resolution notified on 24th November, 2000 under Department of AYUSH, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. Important functions of the Board include co-ordination with Ministries/Departments/Organizations/States/ Union Territories (UTs) for the development of the medicinal plant sector. At the State/UT level, State Medicinal Plants Boards (SMPBs) have also been constituted by the States to coordinate conservation and management of medicinal plants. As per the information furnished by the National Medicinal Plants Board, the following schemes have been implemented by it:-

• Central Sector Scheme for “Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants”:

The Central Sector Scheme for “Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants” was approved by the Government of India on 26th June, 2008 to provide support for Survey, Inventorization, in-situ conservation, ex-situ conservation/herbal gardens, linkage with Joint Forest Management Committees, Research and Development etc. Information regarding quantum of funds allocated year-wise under this scheme to various States/UTs during the last three years is provided in Annexure-I.

• Centrally Sponsored Scheme of “National Mission on Medicinal Plants”: Centrally Sponsored Scheme of “National Mission on Medicinal Plants” was approved during 2008-09. The scheme is primarily aimed at supporting market driven cultivation of medicinal plants on private land with backward linkages for establishment of nurseries for supply of quality planting material etc. and forward linkages for post-harvest management, marketing infrastructure, certification etc. in a mission mode. Information regarding quantum of funds allocated year wise under this scheme during the last three years is provided in Annexure-II. In addition to the above, the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has established a Centre of Excellence on Medicinal Plants and Traditional Knowledge at Foundation for Revitalisation of Local Health Traditions, Bengaluru since October 2002. The MoEF has so far provided approximately �800.00 lakh to the Centre to generate and disseminate knowledge related to conservation of medicinal plants and traditional knowledge. Regarding conservation and protection of birds and their habitats, the Ministry provides financial and technical assistance to the State/UT Governments, including the State Government of Madhya Pradesh, for Protected Areas and outside Protected Areas under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’. Further, the important steps taken by the Ministry for protecting birds are given below:

(i) Rare and endangered birds are included in Schedule–I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, thereby, according them highest degree of protection.

(ii) Stringent punishments have been provided for in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for violation of the provisions of the Act.

(iii) Important habitats of birds, including endangered and migratory birds have been notified as Protected Areas under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for better conservation and the protection of birds and their habitats.

(iv) Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been established for control of illegal trade in wildlife, including various species of birds, and their parts and products.

(v) India is a signatory to all major international conventions relating to conservation and management of wildlife, including bird species. These are the Convention on Biological Diversity, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, and Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance.

(vi) The Sub-committee, constituted under the National Board for Wildlife, has developed Guidelines for ‘Threatened Species Recovery Plan’ and identified Great Indian Bustard, Jerdon’s Courser and Nicobar Megapode as threatened bird species, for conservation and better management of their habitats on priority basis.

(c): As per the information furnished by the National Medicinal Plants Board with respect to the State of Madhya Pradesh: Funds amounting to �323.34 lakh, �899.37 lakh and �222.3 lakh during the years 2010-11, 2011-12 and 2012-13 respectively, have so far been released for implementation of Central Sector Scheme for "Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants". Project of “Amla Campaign” was also sanctioned for the State of Madhya Pradesh which involved a total outlay of �274.00 lakh, out of which �164.00 lakh was released in 2009-10 and �50.00 lakh was released in 2011-12. The project is being implemented by M.P. State Minor Forest Produce (T&D) Co-operative Federation Limited. In addition, funds amounting to �737.58 lakh, �302.93 lakh and �474.58 lakh during the year 2010-11, 2011-12 and 2012-13 respectively, have so far been released in favour of Mission Director, Madhya Pradesh State for implementation of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of "National Mission on Medicinal Plants”. Further, the State-wise details of funds, released during the last three years under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ for conservation and protection of wildlife including birds are given in Annexure - III. This includes funds released to the State of Madhya Pradesh. ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN ANSWER TO PARTS (A AND B) OF THE STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF RAYJA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3110 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 23.04.2013 REGARDING ‘CONSERVATION OF ANCIENT AND TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL PLANTS’.

Details of release of funds under the Central Sector Scheme “Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants” during last three years

(Rs. in lakhs) S. No. State 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 1. Andhra Pradesh 84.92 233.11 44.58 2. Arunachal Pradesh 68.19 48.33 0 3. Assam 56.65 7.44 4.33 4. Bihar 0 0 0 5. Chhattisgarh 2.00 124.98 178.6 6. Delhi 182.55 111.97 38.8 7. Goa 5.00 4.78 0 8. Gujarat 886.89 188.55 609.91 9. Haryana 223.12 47.25 0 10. Himachal Pradesh 550.75 326.98 11.24 11. Jammu & Kashmir 59.90 15.75 33.38 12. Jharkhand 36.77 99.67 138.96 13. Karnataka 136.38 116.33 191.86 14. Kerala 372.86 507.49 50.54 15. Madhya Pradesh 323.34 899.37 222.3 16. Maharashtra 93.16 519.39 890.95 17. Manipur 17.63 20.65 16.0 18. Meghalaya 55.00 5.00 0 19. Mizoram 25.00 4.99 265.35 20. Nagaland 251.68 139.92 74.22 21. Orissa 37.50 179.62 2.79 22. Punjab 13.50 0 0 23. Rajasthan 577.64 454.65 597.94 24. Sikkim 87.19 322.17 177.01 25. Tamil Nadu 167.02 25.35 16.9 26. Tripura 121.00 51.50 89.56 27. Uttar Pradesh 425.30 200.31 4.29 28. Uttarakhand 88.23 179.03 20.64 29. West Bengal 30.00 3.00 75.48 30. Andaman & Nicobar 52.71 0 0 31. Chandigarh 5.00 0 17.12 32. Pudduchery 6.42 0 0

TOTAL 5043.3 4837.58 3772.76 ANNEXURE-II REFERRED TO IN ANSWER TO PARTS (A AND B) OF THE STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF RAYJA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3110 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 23.04.2013 REGARDING ‘CONSERVATION OF ANCIENT AND TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL PLANTS’. Details of release of funds under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “National Mission on Medicinal Plants” during last three years

(Rs. in lakhs) Sl.No. State 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13

1 Andhra Pradesh 700.00 518.43 834.32 2 Arunachal Pradesh 58.85 285.14 0 3 Assam 332.80 114.52 162.81 5 Chhattisgarh 0 186.96 0 6 Gujarat 0 47.35 0 7 Haryana 0 85.46 0 8 Himachal Pradesh 106.11 84.30 0 10 Jharkhand 165.18 257.61 0 11 Karnataka 372.22 0 0 12 Kerala 96.14 223.17 210.41 13 Madhya Pradesh 737.58 302.93 474.58 14 Maharashtra 243.49 327.08 0 15 Manipur 0 138.54 57.6 16 Meghalaya 68.50 91.62 0 17 Mizoram 124.05 160.12 8.91 18 Nagaland 181.63 181.12 188.47 19 Orissa 166.69 475.58 111

20 Punjab 96.00 0 0 21 Rajasthan 100.00 0 0 22 Sikkim 4.17 91.10 161.94 23 Tamil Nadu 834.70 961.39 741.5 24 Tripura 0.00 84.00 0 25 Uttar Pradesh 0.00 0 834.54 26 Uttarakhand 280.98 262.73 0 27 West Bengal 107.54 0.00 0

TOTAL 4776.63 4879.15 3786.08 ANNEXURE-III REFERRED TO IN ANSWER TO PARTS (C) OF THE STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF RAYJA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3110 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 23.04.2013 REGARDING ‘CONSERVATION OF ANCIENT AND TRADITIONAL MEDICINAL PLANTS’. Details of release of funds under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats” during last three years

(Rs. in lakhs) FUNCTIONAL DISTILLERIES IN THE COUNTRY 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3111 DR. T.N. SEEMA:

Sl. No.

Name of the State/UTs 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13

1. A& N Islands 87.872 127.06 109.50 2. Andhra Pradesh 64.341 71.50 180.335 3. Arunachal Pradesh 213.197 168.11 162.3755 4. Assam 186.63 234.17 146.00 5. Bihar 19.889 00 64.685 7. Chhattisgarh 281.966 241.783 449.5655 8. Chandigarh 12.29 19.98 00 9. Dadra & Nagar Haveli 00 00 00

10. Goa 32.879 21.458 148.12 11. Gujarat 1106.749 1126.589 517.926 12. Haryana 15.114 28.70 52.00 13. Himachal Pradesh 253.80 242.1104 318.9668 14. Jammu & Kashmir 537.336 445.085 515.957 15. Jharkhand 63.64 64.2615 81.6195 16. Karnataka 412.252 335.851 434.5018 17. Kerala 366.786 941.79 1210.08 18. Madhya Pradesh 635.366 506.164 467.707 19. Maharashtra 343.32 322.391 425.883 20. Manipur 88.316 86.65 73.925 21. Meghalaya 58.03 43.80 22.08 22. Mizoram 707.763 153.445 96.392 23. Nagaland 33.595 30.333 25.855 24. Odisha 315.331 331.2651 368.2084 25. Punjab 25.12 00 00 26. Rajasthan 348.068 291.387 478.249 27. Sikkim 183.78 131.793 177.579 28. Tamil Nadu 334.449 256.027 258.479 29. Tripura 2.84 00 00 30. Uttar Pradesh 296.179 204.371 319.09 31. Uttarakhand 134.90 201.144 220.27 32. West Bengal 276.385 246.425 164.135 33. Delhi 00 00 00 34. Daman & Diu 00 00 00

TOTAL 7438.183 6873.643 7489.4845

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to refer to answers to Unstarred Questions 2523 and 2326 given in Rajya Sabha on 4 September, 2012 and 19 March, 2013 respectively and state:

(a) whether Government has failed to collect information on total number of distilleries operating in the country because as per the first reply made on 4 September, 2012 the total functional distilleries in India is 404 whereas the written answer made on 19 March, 2013 reports a total of 339 distilleries;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the actual number of distilleries in operation; (c) whether certain State Pollution Control Boards (PCB) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) have

not confirmed the status of pollution control norms by Distilleries in their respective States; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of Government thereto?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) As informed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), with reference to question answered on 19.03.2013, the information regarding operation of 339 distilleries was provided based on the inputs received by them from the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) / Pollution Control Committees (PCCs). As per the updated information received from SPCBs/PCCs, there are 339 distilleries in 26 States / Union Territories (UTs). This excludes 8 States / (UTs) of Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Chandigarh, Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep. Of the 339 distilleries, 20 distilleries are not in operation. Hence, the operational distilleries in 26 States / UTs are 319, as per information furnished by SPCBs/PCCs. NOISE POLLUTION IN DELHI 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3112 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that NCR, Delhi is the most noisiest city of the country; (b) whether it has been affecting the lives of the people of this region, especially children and women; (c) whether it is proposed to work out an action plan for enforcement of antipollution rules to curb the

above menace; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) .A total of 35 stations have been established (phase-I) under National Ambient Noise Monitoring Network during January – March, 2011 in seven cities, namely, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Lucknow. Ambient noise is not monitored in National Capital Region (NCR) but, in Delhi under this network. The network is co-ordinated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). As per data reported by CPCB for the years 2011 and 2012, Delhi is not the noisiest city of the country. (b) As per available information, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) or, Central Pollution Control Board have not undertaken any study on health effects of noise pollution on human population of NCR or, Delhi. © & (d)DPCC has undertaken a task to develop an ‘Action Plan’ is term of an order, dated 18.12.2012 of the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal in Application No. 34 of 2011. MEASURES TO TACKLE E-WASTE GENERATED IN THE COUNTRY

23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3113 SHRI THAAWAR CHAND GEHLOT: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has made any assessment of e-waste generated every year in the country; (b) if so, the details of increase in e-waste every year especially in the metropolitan cities in the country; (c) the details of measures being taken by Government to tackle it; and (d) the steps taken by Government to check increasing e-waste?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): As per a survey carried out by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) 1,46,800 tonnes of e-waste was generated in the country during the year 2005. The quantum of e-waste generated during the year 2005 in five metropolitan cities viz. Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai and Kolkata was 11017 MTA, 9730 MTA, 4648 MTA, 4132 MTA and 4025 MTA, respectively. (c) & (d): The Ministry of Environment & Forests has notified e-waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 which have become effective from 1st May, 2012. These Rules provide for mandatory authorization of producer, collection centre, dismantler and recycler of e-waste and registration of dismantler and recycler of e-waste from the State Pollution Control Board or Pollution Control Committee of Union territories; and ‘Extended Producer Responsibility’ under which producers will be responsible for collection and channelization of e-waste generated from the ‘end of life’ of their products to registered dismantler or recycler. Further, import/export of e-waste is regulated under Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movements) Rules, 2008. ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE FOR HIGHWAY PROJECTS 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3114 SHRI S. THANGAVELU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has cleared National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) projects stating that it could go ahead with highway projects without even obtaining forest clearance;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that the NHAI will now be required to get forest clearance only for the project

area falling within forest land; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) Environmental clearances for highway projects which involved diversion of forest land were earlier linked with Stage–I forest clearance. It was recently decided to delink environmental and forest clearances for linear projects, including highways. Accordingly, highway projects can now be executed on non-forest land on either side of forest land based only on environment clearance, without waiting for forest clearance. Work in forest land can be executed only after grant of forest clearance.

INSTALLATION OF SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM IN NATIONAL PARKS TO CHECK POACHING 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3115 SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is planning to install surveillance system based on “online marine monitoring system” in National Parks where anti-social elements are indulging in illegal activities;

(b) the number of cases of unnatural deaths of wild animals like elephants, tigers, etc. detected in the National Park from 1 January, 2012 to 31 December, 2012;

(c) whether any nexus between anti social elements and forest officials has come to the notice of Government;

(d) if so, whether departmental investigations or other penal proceedings were launched against them; and (e) if so, what is the result thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) A pilot initiative of electronic surveillance (“e-Eye”), using long range, intelligent thermal and infrared cameras, has been implemented in the southern part of the Corbett Tiger Reserve for 24X7 surveillance to strengthen protection. The said initiative has been successfully implemented and well received by the State. Funding assistance is provided to the States under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger based on their demands as reflected in the respective Annual Plans of Operations for such efforts. (b) The number of unnatural death of wild animals like tigers, elephant, etc as informed by the State Governments is given in the Annexure. (c) Reports of nexus between anti social elements and forest officials have not come to the notice of this Ministry. (d) & (e) Does not arise. ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3115 REGARDING ‘INSTALLATION OF SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM IN NATIONAL PARKS TO CHECK POACHING’ BY SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA DUE FOR REPLY ON 23.4.2013. Details of tiger mortality, as reported by States, from 1st January, 2012 to 31st December 2012

Sl. No.

State 2012

Poaching/under Scrutiny including seizure


1 Andhra Pradesh 0 0 2 Arunachal Pradesh 1 0 3 Assam 3 3 4 Bihar 0 1 5 Chhattisgarh 1 0 6 Jharkhand 0 0 7 Karnataka 10 4 8 Kerala 4 1 9 Madhya Pradesh 10 5 10 Maharashtra 9 4 11 Mizoram 0 0 12 Odisha 1 0

13 Rajasthan 1 0 14 Tamil Nadu 6 2 15 Uttarakhand 5 6 16 Uttar Pradesh 6 1 17 West Bengal 1 2 18 Haryana 1 0

TOTAL 59 29 Details of elephant mortality during 2011-12 and 2012-13 as reported by States

2011-12 2012-13

Poaching Poisoning

Train accidents

Poaching Train accidents

13 1 13 0 16 Details of lion mortality during 2011-12 and 2012-13, as reported by the State (Gujarat)

Year Due to eating toxic carcass

Electrocution Poaching Falling in well

Self defence

2011-12 0 2 0 3 0 2012-13

1 1 0 1 0

Total 1 3 0 4 0 Details of rhino mortality for the last three years and current year, as reported by State

Species 2012

Rhino Poaching Total 18

(Kaziranga NP and outside Kaziranga NP) CRITICAL LEVEL OF PM10 IN INDIAN CITIES 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3116 SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that 141 cities exceed the standard set for particulate matter of size below 10 microns (PM10) as per Centre for Science and Environment analysis;

(b) whether it is also a fact that as many as 90 cities have critical levels of PM10 and of this, 26 cities have most critical levels of PM10, exceed the standard by more than 3 times;

(c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the steps proposed to be taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c). The ambient air quality is monitored by various State Pollution Control Boards, Pollution Control Committees and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) across the country under the National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP). Three pollutants, namely, Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and PM10 (particulate matter having size equal to or, less than 10 micron) are monitored at all stations as per revised National Ambient Air Quality Standards (2009). There are 545 operating air quality monitoring manual stations under NAMP

covering 225 cities, towns and industrial areas in 26 States and 5 Union Territories, as on 31.03.2013. NAMP is co-ordinated by CPCB. The data so collected under NAMP is collated, complied, processed and published on annual basis by CPCB. As per data analysis undertaken by CPCB for the year 2010, a total of 130 cities, towns or, industrial areas were exceeding the norms (annual average) for PM10.). Based on exceedance factor, 47 cities, towns or, industrial areas fall in high level category whereas, 83 in critical category for PM10. (d). The Government has taken various steps for improving air quality which inter-alia includes, tightening of industrial emission norms, management of municipal, hazardous and bio- medical wastes, strengthening air monitoring network, source apportionment studies for particulate matter in ambient air in six cities, strengthening public transport including metro rails in select cities, gaseous fuel for public transport, BS-IV/III norms for new vehicles, pollution under control (PUC) certificate system for in- use vehicles, preparation and implementation of action plans for select cities & critically polluted areas, public awareness, etc. FISHING INSIDE THE WILD LIFE SANCTUARY 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3117 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the inhabitants of Bhitarakanika wild life sanctuary were engaged in fishing in the area from generation to generation like the tribals inhabiting in other wild life areas; and

(b) whether these fishermen would be vested with the rights of fishing inside the wild life sanctuary like their forefathers and should be vested with rights under the Forests Rights Act?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) As per information received from the State Government of Odisha, there is no document to prove history of rights vested to the people regarding fishing in Bhittarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary from generation to generation on its water bodies. Forest Right Act, 2006 as per its provisions is application throughout the State and acted upon. POLLUTION CONTROL NORMS FOR INDUSTRIES IN RAJASTHAN 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3118 SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of highly polluting industries in the country including Rajasthan, State-wise; (b) whether certain highly polluting industries are not complying with the prescribed pollution control

norms of the respective State Pollution Control Board (SPCB); (c) if so, whether any penalty has been imposed on such industries; (d) if so, whether SPCBs carry out periodical analysis of pollution spread by such industries; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) along with the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and the Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) have identified 17 categories of Highly Polluting Industries (HPI) in the country. The State-wise status of pollution control compliance of these HPIs is given at Annexure. Out of 3251 industries, 587 industries have been reported as non-complying. In the State of Rajasthan, out of 118 polluting industries, 31 units are non-complying. These industries are being periodically monitored by State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to verify their compliance with respect to the prescribed standards. The State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) / Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) have been imposing Bank Guarantees (BGs) against the non-complying industries and these BGs are taken to meet the directions issued by SPCBs for securing compliance. ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (E) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 3118 DUE FOR REPLY ON 23.04.2013 REGARDING POLLUTION CONTROL NORMS FOR INDUSTRIES IN RAJASTHAN RAISED BY SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR: STATEWISE STATUS OF 17 CATEGORIES OF HIGHLY POLLUTING INDUSTRIES (As on March 31, 2013)

S. No State Complying Non Complying Closed Total 1 Andhra Pradesh 367 74 32 473 2 Arunachal Pradesh 2 0 0 2 3 Assam 36 12 1 49 4 Bihar 16 4 0 20 5 Chattisgarh 71 6 1 78 6 Chandigarh 0 0 0 0 7 Daman & Diu 2 0 1 3 8 Delhi 2 0 0 2 9 Goa 14 0 1 15 10 Gujarat 302 7 8 317 11 Haryana 114 4 14 132 12 H.P. 14 0 3 17 13 Jharkhand 104 47 22 173 14 Jammu & Kashmir 7 0 3 10 15 Karnataka 102 49 32 183 16 Kerala 22 14 15 51 17 Lakshadeep 0 0 0 0 18 Madhya Pradesh 65 16 2 83 19 Maharashtra 317 145 58 520 20 Meghalaya 13 1 0 14 21 Mizoram 1 0 0 1 22 Nagaland 0 0 0 0 23 Orissa 37 17 11 65 24 Puducherry 5 2 0 7 25 Punjab 52 16 19 87 26 Rajasthan 69 31 18 118 27 Sikkim 3 1 0 4 28 Tamil Nadu 210 10 11 231 29 Tripura 11 1 5 17 30 Uttar Pradesh 278 45 78 401 31 Uttarakhand 25 19 5 49 32 West Bengal 48 66 15 129

Total 2309 587 355 3251 Note: No data has been reported by 02 State/Union Territory namely Manipur and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Data reported by Chattisgarh and Jammu & Kashmir is more than 03 years old. NATIONAL ACTION PLAN ON CLIMATE CHANGE 23rd April, 2013

RSQ 3119 SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that a sum of Rs. 2,30,000 crore would be required to meet the targets under the National Action Plan on Climate Change;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that the additional steps suggested under the Twelfth Plan and other

environmental initiatives would require yet more resources; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) According to the estimates available in the 12th Five Year Plan document prepared by Planning Commission of India, an amount of Rs. 2,30,000 crores would be required to meet the targets under National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). However, the requirement as indicated in the Mission Documents prepared by Nodal Ministries of respective Mission is Rs. 253208.35 crores. Details are given in Annexure. (c) and (d) During the 12th Five Year Plan, a new thematic scheme on “Climate Change Action Programme” with an outlay of Rs. 300 crores has been approved to build capacity and support implementation of relevant actions at the national and state level. Other environmental initiative during the 12th Five Year Plan includes the low carbon strategy for sustainable development for which resource requirement has not been indicated in the plan document.

Annexure Annexure referred to Part (a) to (b) of Unstarred Question No. 3119 raised by Shri T.M. Selvaganapathi regarding National Action Plan on Climate Change Requirements of additional funds for Missions under the NAPCC

Sl. No. Missions

Total (Rs. in crores)

1 National Solar Mission 4337.00 2 National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency 425.35 3 National Mission on Sustainable Habitat 1000.00 4 National Water Mission 89101.00 5 National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture 1,08,000.00 6 National Mission on Sustaining Himalayan Ecosystem 1695.00 7 Green India Mission 46000.00 8 National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate

Change 2650.00

Total 253208.35

GLOBAL WARMING 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3120 SHRI HISHEY LACHUNGPA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the global warming is having an adverse impact on daily life of human beings; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has conducted any study in this regard; (d) if so, the outcome thereof; (e) the number of deaths reported during each of the last three years in the country due to direct impact of

global warming particularly in North Eastern States including Sikkim, State-wise; and (f) the funds allocated to combat global warming in the country, State-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) According to the Assessment Reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), set up jointly by United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and World Meteorological Organization (WMO), there is an impact of global warming on human system through changing weather patterns (for example, more intense and frequent extreme events) and indirectly through changes in water, air, food quality and quantity, ecosystems, agriculture, economy and increase of the incidents of vector-borne disease. (c) & (d) A study to assess the impact of climate change on four key sectors of Indian economy, namely agriculture, water, natural ecosystems & biodiversity and health in four climate sensitive regions of India, namely the Himalayan region, the Western Ghats, the Coastal Area and the North-East Region has been conducted and a report titled “Climate Change and India: A 4X4 Assessment - A Sectoral and Regional Analysis for 2030s” was published in 2010. The study projects a mixed picture of implications for climate parameters and related impacts on the relevant sectors in all four regions. The study also projected overall warming, increase in precipitation variable water yield, change in the composition of the forests, spread of Malaria in new areas and threats of its transmission for longer duration, which are likely to cause adverse impact on the lives of human beings. (e) There is no data available for the country including North Eastern states regarding the number of deaths due to direct impact of global warming. (f) During the 12th Five Year Plan, a new thematic scheme on “Climate Change Action Programme” with an outlay of Rs. 300 crores has been approved to build capacity and support implementation of relevant actions at the national and state level. FIELD TRIAL OF TRANSGENIC CROPS 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3121 SHRI B.S. GNANADESIKAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

a) whether Government has permitted private companies to conduct field trials of GM crops such as cotton, corn and maize in Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat;

b) if so, the details thereof; c) whether Government has also received representation from various farmer organization sectors

requesting Government to stop all open field trials of transgenic crops until it develops a better system of monitoring and oversight; and

d) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by Government in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a&b) Yes, Sir. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), apex body notified under Rules 1989 has permitted private companies to conduct experimental field trials in respect of GM crops such as cotton and maize/corn and others in various States which include Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat subject to NOC from the respective State Governments. Currently, however, there are no ongoing field trials with GM crops. (c&d) This Ministry has not received any representation from farmer organization/s requesting the Government to stop all open field trials of transgenic crops. RECOMMENDATIONS OF WESTERN GHAT ECOLOGY EXPERT PANEL 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3122 SHRI JOY ABRAHAM: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of the fact that the recommendations of Western Ghat Ecology Expert Panel led by Prof. Madhav Gadgil has evoked widespread apprehension and criticism among the people of affected States;

(b) if so, the details of measures proposed by Government to address genuine fears and apprehensions of affected States, especially Kerala;

(c) whether the Government has taken any decision regarding clearance to Gundia hydro-electric project in Karnataka and Athirappally hydro-electric project in Kerala in the light of recommendations of Prof. Madhav Gadgil Panel; and

(d) the details of terms of reference of Kasturi Rangan Committee and its scope in relation to Madhav Gadgil Panel recommendations?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) Considering the large number of comments/responses received from the stakeholders, concerned State Governments and Central Ministries on the recommendations given in Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel report including those for Gundia hydro-electric project in Karnataka and the Athirappilly hydro-electric project in Kerala, the Ministry of Environment and Forests had constituted a High Level Working Group under the Chairmanship of Dr. K Kasturirangan, Member, Planning Commission vide office order dated 17.8.2012. (d) The terms of reference of the High Level Working Group inter alia include to examine the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel Report in a holistic and multidisciplinary fashion keeping in view the comments received from the concerned State Governments/Central Ministries/Stakeholders and other related important aspects such as preservation of precious biodiversity, needs and aspirations of the local and indigenous people, sustainable development and environmental integrity of the region, climate change and constitutional implications of centre-state relations and to recommend further course of action to the Government with respect to the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel Report. The High Level Working Group has submitted its report to the Ministry and the same has been uploaded on the website of the Ministry of Environment and Forests for wider dissemination. ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE TO MINING PROJECTS 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3123 SHRI VIVEK GUPTA:


(a) the number of proposals pending for mining projects received by the Ministry from 2006 till date, State-wise;

(b) the details of projects which were rejected environmental clearance, the projects for which the clearance process is ongoing and the projects which were granted the clearance during the last five years in West Bengal;

(c) the estimated loss on exports of the country, caused by the rejection of environmental clearance to mining projects, State-wise; and

(d) the estimated loss in employment, due to such rejection, State-wise? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): There are 68 mining projects pending for grant of environmental clearance (EC) in the Ministry. Out of these, 35 projects are for Coal Mining and 33 projects are for Non-Coal Mining sectors. The State-wise details of project proposals are at Annexure. Eighteen projects have been granted environmental clearance in the State of West Bengal for the coal mining sector in the last five years. (c) & (d): The proposals for environmental clearance are considered and processed in line with the provisions under the Environment Impact Assessment notification, 2006 issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Ministry of Environment and Forests does not maintain any data on estimated loss on exports or in employment on account of rejection of environmental clearance proposals.

Annexure State-wise details of project proposals pending for Environmental Clearance

S. No. Name of the State/UT Coal Mine Non-coal Mine 1 Andhra Pradesh 2 3 2 Andaman & Nicobar - - 3 Arunachal Pradesh - - 4 Assam - - 5 Bihar - - 6 Chandigarh - - 7 Chhattisgarh 3 1 8 Dadar Nagar Haveli - - 9 Daman & Diu - - 10 Delhi - - 11 Goa - - 12 Gujarat - 3 13 Haryana - - 14 Himachal Pradesh - 3 15 Jammu & Kashmir - - 16 Jharkhand 10 7 17 Karnataka - 2 18 Kerala - - 19 Madhya Pradesh 4 - 20 Maharashtra 4 - 21 Manipur - - 22 Meghalaya - - 23 Mizoram - - 24 Nagaland - - 25 Lakshdweep - - 26 Pondicherry - - 27 Orissa 7 5 28 Punjab - 1 29 Rajasthan 2 4 30 Sikkim - - 31 Tamil Nadu - -

32 Tripura - - 33 Uttarakhand - - 34 Uttar Pradesh 2 4 35 West Bengal 1 - Total 35 33

PROTECTION OF FORESTS IN ASSAM 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3124 SMT NAZNIN FARUQUE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the forest areas in Assam are not fully protected, and killing and trafficking of the Rhinos and other forest animals are still being carried out;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has constituted any committee or plan to fully protect the forests in Assam; (d) if so the details thereof; (e) if not, the reasons therefor; and (f) the number of culprits arrested involved in poaching?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) There are 23 Protected Areas in Assam of which five Protected Areas viz., Kaziranga National Park (Tiger Reserve), Orang National Park, Manas National Park (Tiger Reserve), Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and Lakhowa Wildlife Sanctuary are specifically dedicated for protection of Rhinos. However, incidents of killing of rhinos in Assam have come to the notice of the Ministry. During the year 2012, 18 killings of Rhinos have been reported in Assam. (c) to (e) Ministry has not constituted any specific Committee or Plan for protection of forests in Assam. The detection of offences apprehension and prosecution of offenders involved in such offences in the States/Union Territories is done by the concerned State/Union Territory Governments under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, (f) The details of the culprits arrested in such cases are not collated in the Ministry of Environment and Forests. KILLING OF TIGERS IN THE COUNTRY 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3125 SHRI BIRENDRA PRASAD BAISHYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of tiger population in the country along with number of tigers killed including reasons therefor during the last three years till date, location-wise;

(b) whether Government’s attention has been drawn towards continuing incidents of killing of tigers by people/mob in Assam;

(c) if so, adequate measures taken by Government in this regard to protect tigers; and

(d) the steps taken by Government towards community mobilization, awareness generation as well as long term conservation plan for tigers in the country?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The country level tiger population, assessed once in every four years using the refined methodology, has shown an increasing trend with a population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively, in the recent assessment of 2010, as compared to the last country level assessment of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. The details of tiger estimation for the years 2006 and 2010 are at Annexure-I. The details of tiger mortality, as reported by the States, during last three years and current year till date, are at Annexure-II. (b) No incident of tiger killed by people/mob has been reported by the State. (c) A ‘Standard Operating Procedure’ has been issued to deal with straying tigers. (d) Funding assistance is provided to States under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, which, interalia, include activities for fostering awareness and eliciting public support. The milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection of tigers and other wild animals are at Annexure-III.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3125 ON KILLING OF TIGERS IN THE COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 23.04.2013. Details of tiger estimation for the year 2006 and 2010

State Tiger Population

2006 2010 Increase/ Decrease/ Stable

Estimate (Number)

Statistical Lower Limit

Statistical Upper Limit

Estimate (Number)



Shivalik-Gangetic Plain Landscape Complex

Uttarakhand 178 161 195 227 199 256 Increase Uttar Pradesh 109 91 127 118 113 124 Stable Bihar 10 7 13 8 (-)*** (-)*** (-)*** Stable Shivalik-Gangetic landscape

297 259 335 353

320 388 Stable

Central Indian Landscape Complex and Eastern Ghats Landscape Complex Andhra Pradesh 95 84 107 72 65 79 Decrease Chhattisgarh 26 23 28 26 24 27 Stable Madhya Pradesh 300 236 364 257 213 301 Stable Maharashtra 103 76 131 169 155 183 Increase Odisha 45 37 53 32 20 44 Stable Rajasthan 32 30 35 36 35 37 Stable Jharkhand Not assessed 10 6 14 Could not be

compared since it was not assessed in 2006.

Central Indian landscape

601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable

Western Ghats Landscape Complex

Karnataka 290 241 339 300 280 320 Stable

Kerala 46 39 53 71 67 75 Increase

Tamil Nadu 76 56 95 163 153 173 Increase Western Ghats landscape

402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase

North Eastern Hills and Brahmaputra Flood Plains Assam 70 60 80 143 113 173 Increase Arunachal Pradesh 14

12 18 Not assessed Not assessed Not assessed Could not be


Mizoram 6 4 8 5 (-)*** (-)*** (-)*** Stable Northern West Bengal

10 8 12 Not assessed Not assessed Not assessed Could not be compared since it was not assessed in 2010.

North East Hills, and Brahmaputra landscape

100

84 118 148

118 178 Increase

Sundarbans Not assessed Not assessed Not assessed 70

64 90 Could not be compared since it was not assessed in 2006.

TOTAL 1411 1165 1657 1706 1520 1909

*** Statistical lower / upper limits could not be ascertained owing to small size of the population.

Annexure-II ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3125 ON KILLING OF TIGERS IN THE COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 23.04.2013. Details of tiger mortality, as reported by States, during last three years and current year

Sl. No.

State 2010 2011 2012

2013 (as on 18.04.2013)





Poaching/ Under Scrutiny including seizure



Under Scrutiny


1 Andhra Pradesh 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 Arunachal Pradesh 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 Assam 2 6 3 3 3 3 0 3 0 4 Bihar 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 5 Chhattisgarh 2 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 6 Jharkhand 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 Karnataka 5 2 3 3 10 4 2 9 0 8 Kerala 2 1 1 3 4 1 1 0 1 9 Madhya Pradesh 3 5 0 5 10 5 1 0 1 10 Maharashtra 5 3 4 2 9 4 1 4 1 11 Mizoram 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 Odisha 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 13 Rajasthan 3 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 14 Tamil Nadu 2 2 0 3 6 2 0 2 0 15 Uttarakhand 1 4 2 15 5 6 0 4 0 16 Uttar Pradesh 1 1 1 3 6 1 0 1 0 17 West Bengal 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 18 Haryana 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 28 25 16 40 59 29 5 26 3

Annexure-III

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3125 ON KILLING OF TIGERS IN THE COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 23.04.2013. Milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection of tigers and other wild animals Legal steps


2. Enhancement of punishment for offence in relation to the core area of a tiger reserve or where the offence relate to hunting in the tiger reserves or altering the boundaries of tiger reserves, etc.

Administrative steps


4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from the 4th September, 2006, for

strengthening tiger conservation by, inter alia, ensuring normative standards in tiger reserve management, preparation of reserve specific tiger conservation plan, laying down annual audit report before Parliament, constituting State level Steering Committees under the Chairmanship of Chief Ministers and establishment of Tiger Conservation Foundation.

5. Constitution of a multidisciplinary Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau (Wildlife

Crime Control Bureau) with effect from the 6th June, 2007 to effectively control illegal trade in wildlife. 6. The in-principle approval has been accorded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority for creation of

four new tiger reserves, and the sites are:, Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh), Ratapani (Madhya Pradesh), Sunabeda (Odisha), and Mukundara Hills (including Darrah, Jawahar Sagar and Chambal Wildlife Sanctuaries) (Rajasthan). Final approval has been accorded to Kudremukh (Karnataka) for declaring as a tiger reserve. The State Governments have been advised to send proposals for declaring the following areas as tiger reserves: (i) Bor (Maharashtra), (ii) Suhelwa (Uttar Pradesh), (iii) Nagzira-Navegaon (Maharashtra), (iv) Guru Ghasidas National Park (Chhattisgarh), (v) Mhadei Sanctuary (Goa) and (vi) Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel / Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries / Varushanadu Valley (Tamil Nadu).

7. The revised Project Tiger guidelines have been issued to State Governments for strengthening tiger

conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, inter alia, include financial support to States for enhanced village relocation or rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh per family to Rs. 10 lakhs per family), rehabilitation or resettlement of communities involved in traditional hunting, mainstreaming livelihood and wildlife concerns in forests outside tiger reserves and fostering corridor conservation through restorative strategy to arrest habitat fragmentation.

8. A scientific methodology for estimating tiger (including co-predators, prey animals and assessment of

habitat status) has been evolved and mainstreamed. The findings of this estimation and assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. The 17 tiger States have notified the core/critical tiger habitat (35917.44 sq. km.), and the buffer/peripheral

area (29365.64 sq.km.) of all the 42 tiger reserves in the country, under section 38V of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006.

Financial steps




12. A protocol has been signed in September, 2011 with Bangladesh for conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sunderban.


14. A Global Tiger Forum of Tiger Range Countries has been created for addressing international issues related to tiger conservation.


16. Based on India's strong intervention during the 62nd meeting of the Standing Committee of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) at Geneva from 23-27 July, 2012, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora Secretariat has issued a notification No. 2012/054 dated the 3rd September, 2012 to Parties to fully implement Decision 14.69 and report to the Secretariat by 25 September, 2012 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.).

17. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers and tigresses have been done. The successful reintroduction of wild tigers in Sariska is a unique exercise and is the first of its kind in the world. A reintroduced tigress has recently littered and two cubs have also been camera trapped. The tiger reintroduction initiative at Panna (MP) has also been very successful and reintroduced tigers are breeding.

18. Special advisories issued for in-situ build up of prey base and tiger population through active management in tiger reserves having low population status of tiger and its prey.

Creation of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)

19. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of the 29th February, 2008, inter alia, contains action points relating to tiger protection. Based on the one time grant of Rs. 50.00 crore provided to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for raising, arming and deploying a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF), the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. The States of Karnataka and Maharashtra have already created and deployed the STPF.

20. In collaboration with TRAFFIC-INDIA, an online tiger crime data base has been launched, and Generic Guidelines for preparation of reserve specific Security Plan has been evolved.

Recent initiatives


22. Special crack teams sent to tiger reserves affected by left wing extremism and low population status of tiger and its prey.


24. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching 'Monitoring system for Tigers' Intensive Protection and Ecological Status (M-STrIPES)' for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

25. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation. 26. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from

providing incentives. 27. The second round of country level tiger status assessment completed in 2010, with the findings indicating

an increase with a tiger population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively, as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657, respectively. At present, India has the maximum number of tigers and its source areas amongst the 13 tiger range countries in the world, owing to its long history of conserving the species through Project Tiger (2% of country's geographical area spread out in 42 tiger reserves in 17 States).

28. A report on Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of Tiger Reserves was released on 28th July, 2011, containing the second round of independent assessment based on refined criteria done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves. Out of 39 tiger reserves, 15 were rated as 'very good', 12 as 'good', 8 as 'satisfactory' and 4 as 'poor'.

29. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas. 30. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and

Guwahati. 31. A 'Standard Operating Procedure' for dealing with tiger deaths has been issued, based on advisories of

Project Tiger / National Tiger Conservation Authority, with inputs from Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, State officials and experts, fine tuned to meet the present challenges.

32. A ‘Standard Operating Procedure’ for dealing with straying tigers in human dominated landscape has been issued.

33. A ‘Standard Operating Procedure’ for disposing tiger/leopard carcass/body parts has been issued. 34. The Revised Cost Estimates for Project Tiger was approved on 11.8.2011 for an upward revision of the cost

estimates for the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger during the XIth Plan period from 650 crore to Rs. 1216.86 crore of central assistance to support States in village relocation from core areas of tiger reserves. Several new components were added to the Project, viz.:

(i) Change in the funding pattern in respect of North Eastern States (90:10) (ii) Raising compensation for man-animal conflict to Rs. 2 lakhs (iii) Acquisition of private land for making the core/critical tiger habitat inviolate (iv) Establishment of Tiger Safari, interpretation/awareness centres under the existing component of

'co-existence agenda in buffer/fringe areas', and management of such centres through the respective Panchayati Raj Institutions



36. Launching the creation of a national repository of camera trap photo IDs of individual tigers. 37. Notification of the Kawal Tiger Reserve in Andhra Pradesh. 38. In-principle approval for use of CAMPA funds towards village relocation from core areas. 39. Completion of e-surveillance project in Corbett. 40. Comprehensive guidelines under section 38O 1 (c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 issued for Project

Tiger and Tourism in Tiger Reserves on 15th October, 2012. 41. Under active management, permission accorded for translocation of two tigresses from Ranthambhore to

Sariska (Rajasthan), besides one straying sub-adult male tiger from Panna to Satpura (Madhya Pradesh). 42. A bilateral arrangement has been recently formalized with Bangladesh on tiger conservation. Our

delegations are interacting with Nepal and China within the framework of existing bilateral arrangements. A sub-group on tiger/leopard conservation has been constituted for cooperation with the Russian Federation, which has met recently.

43. Field level workshops for capacity building of field officers to deal with straying tigers have been organized at Tadoba and Dudhwa Tiger Reserves (2013).

44. NTCA teams sent for field appraisal of tiger deaths, Project Tiger implementation etc.

45. Process underway for providing enabling provisions in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, to strengthen our implementation of the CITES and towards enhancement of penalties for contravention of provisions of the Act.

46. The State Government of Tamil Nadu has declared the Sathyamangalam as a Tiger Reserve. POLLUTION IN BHARALU RIVER IN GUWAHATI 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3126 SHRI KUMAR DEEPK DAS: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the steps taken to stop the pollution in the river Bharalu at Guwahati; (b) the quantum of funds released and utilized so far; (c) whether Government has taken any specific steps to treat the water from sewage and other

sources before the same is allowed to be discharged into the river, after identification of major pollution sources; and

(d) if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Central Pollution Control Board, based on their monitoring, have identified polluted river stretches and water bodies of the country, which include river Bharalu in its stretch in Guwahati. The Pollution Control Board of Assam (PCBA) has studied the pollution aspects including discharge of untreated sewage, industrial waste, medical waste, municipal solid waste etc. in to the river Bharalu and prepared an Action Plan to combat pollution in this river. The PCBA has issued directions to the concerned authorities like Guwahati Municipal Corporation, industries, hospitals, refinery, etc. to take necessary measures for controlling pollution of Bharalu River. Action Plan has also suggested that, for abatement of pollution in river Bharalu in Guwahati, major pollution sources are to be intercepted and diverted to a sewage treatment plant (STP) for treatment before discharging into the river. (b) to (d) The State Government of Assam had submitted a project proposal for pollution abatement of Bharalu River at Guwahati at an estimated cost of Rs. 223.0 crore to this Ministry for approval under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). After examination of the proposal, the same was returned to the Government of Assam as it did not conform to the Guidelines issued by the Ministry for preparation of Detailed Project Reports for the proposals. IMPACT OF GLOBAL WARMING IN THE COUNTRY 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3127 SHRI N. BALAGANGA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has studied the impact of global warming in the country with respect to India; (b) if so, the details thereof, and if not, the reasons therefor; (c) whether Government proposes to augment the area under forest cover, to tackle the problem of

climatic change in the country; (d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the details of funds allocated for this purpose during the current plan period? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A study to assess the impact of climate change on four key sectors of Indian economy, namely Agriculture, Water, Natural Ecosystems & Biodiversity and Health in four climate sensitive regions of India, namely the Himalayan region, the Western Ghats, the Coastal Area and the North-East Region has been conducted and a report titled “Climate Change and India: A 4X4 Assessment - A Sectoral and Regional Analysis for 2030s” was published in 2010. The study projects a mixed picture of implications for climate parameters and related impacts on the relevant sectors in all four regions. An overall warming for all the regions is projected. It is also projected that all regions will experience an increase in precipitation by 5-10 days. Water yield is projected to increase in the Himalayan Region whereas it is likely to be variable across the other three regions. Change in the composition of the forests and Net Primary Productivity is projected in all the regions. Malaria is projected to spread in new areas and threats of its transmission are likely to increase for longer duration. (c) to (e) The Green India Mission (GIM) under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) has been launched. The GIM focuses, inter alia, to increase the forest and tree cover in an area of 5 million hectares, improve quality of forest cover in another 5 million hectares area, and enhance forest-based livelihood, improve eco-system services, biodiversity, hydrological services and the environmental amelioration. Rs. 2000 crores have been allocated for the Mission during the 12th Five Year Plan. POLLUTION BY HIGHLY POLLUTING INDUSTRIES IN THE COUNTRY 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3128 SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) inspects the highly polluting industries in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether smoke and dust emanating from the cement factories in the country, especially in Rajasthan

are harmfully affecting the agriculture and the people residing nearby; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the steps taken by Government to stop emission from these factories

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) undertakes inspections of the plants falling in the 17 category of highly polluting industries under its Environment Surveillance Programme. During 2011-12 and 2012-13 (till February, 2013), CPCB has inspected 448 plants, out of which, 59 inspections were undertaken in cement plants. (c) & (d) As reported by CPCB, information has not been received on adverse effects of smoke and dust emitted by cement factories in Rajasthan. There are 183 large cement plants and 365 mini cement plants in the country including Rajasthan. Out of which, 22 large cement plants (including 3 in Rajasthan) and 10 mini cement plants (including 2 in Rajasthan) are not complying with emission standards, as on date. (e). The compliance of emission standards for cement plant is ensured by respective State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) through consent mechanism under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. In case of non-compliance, directions for closure or, upgradation of pollution control systems are issued to the industries by SPCB or, CPCB, as the case may be.

FARM FOREST SCHEME 23th April, 2013 RSQ 3129 SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has introduced a new scheme named ‘Farm Forest’ to promote afforestation in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has taken any steps to ensure active involvement of farmers in the scheme; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the steps taken/being taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has not introduced any new scheme named ‘Farm Forest’. However, the National Mission for Green India is a new programme by the Ministry of Environment and Forests which aims to increase forest and tree cover on 5 million ha. area and to improve quality of forest cover on another 5 million ha. out of which about 2.3 million ha. is envisaged for Agro-Forestry in non-productive agricultural lands involving the farmers. Afforestation on farm lands is also done through schemes of other Ministries viz. National Bamboo Mission, National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas (NWDPRA), Soil Conservation in the Catchments of River Valley Project and Flood Prone River (RVP&FPR), Reclamation and Development of Alkali and Acid Soils (RADAS) and Watershed Development Project in Shifting Cultivation Areas (WDPSCA) sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture. Tree planting on private land is also taken up under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development. PENDING POWER PROJECTS FOR ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3130 SHRI DEVENDER GOUD T Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that 26 projects from power sector are pending before the Ministry for clearance; (b) if so, the details of each of the projects that are pending for clearance; (c) the reasons for pendency of each of such project, project-wise; and (d) the details of efforts her Ministry is making to clear the projects in the current financial year?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) There are now 29 power projects pending for environmental clearance in the Ministry. The reason for pendency and the details are given in Annexures I, II & III. The main reasons for pendency are delay in submission

of complete information by the project proponent, inadequate data and deficiency in the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) / Environment Management Plan (EMP) report. (d) The Ministry has taken various steps to facilitate timely decision on the projects by constituting sector specific Expert Appraisal Committees (EACs), convening regular meetings of the EACs every month, preparation of sector specific technical guidance manuals and uploaded on the Ministry website to facilitate better preparation of EIA-EMP Reports by the project proponents etc.

ANNEXURE-I PENDING THERMAL POWER PROJECTS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE AS ON 31.03.2013 S.No. Project Details Status

Chhattisgarh

1 No. J-13012/87/2010-IA.II(T) Name: Expansion by addition of 1x600 MW coal based TPP (Phase-II) at village Bade Bhandar, Chhote Bhandar, Sarwani and Amali Bhauna, Tehsil Pussore District: Raigarh Company: M/s Korba West Power Co. Ltd.

Application for consideration for environmental clearance received in March, 2013. Will be placed in forth coming Expert Appraisal Committee (Thermal) EAC(T) meeting scheduled in April, 2013.

2 No: J-13012/69/2010-IA II (T) Name: Expansion by addition of 2x660 MW (Unit 5 & 6) Imported Coal based TPP in Korba Tehsil & Distt., in Chhattisgarh. Company: M/s Lanco Amarkantak Power Ltd.

Was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) scheduled during October, 2012. Project was deferred and additional information received along with application for re-consideration for environmental clearance received in March, 2013. Will be placed in forth coming EAC (Thermal) meeting scheduled during April, 2013.

3 No: J-13012/78/2009-IA II (T) Name: 2x660 MW Coal Based TPP at villages Birra, Siladeshi and Gatwa, in Bamnidhi Taluk District: Jangir Champa, Chhattisgarh Company: M/s MB Power (Chhattisgarh) Ltd.

Was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) scheduled during June, 2012. Project was deferred and additional information sought received along with application for re-consideration for environmental clearance received in March, 2013. Will be placed in forth coming EAC (Thermal) meeting scheduled during April, 2013.

Karnataka 4 No. J-13012/92/2011-IA.II(T)

Name: Expansion by addition of 30 MW of Co-generation Power Plant District Belgaum State: Karnataka Company: M/s Shree Renuka Sugars Ltd.

Was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) scheduled during Octobe, 2012. EC recommended. Additional information sought from Project Proponent (PP) is awaited.

Madhya Pradesh 5 No. J-13012/53/2011-IA.II(T)

Name: 380 MW Gas Based CCPP Plant at village Vijaipur District: Guna State: Madhya Pradesh Company: M/s GAIL (India) Ltd.

Was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) scheduled during October, 2012. Project was deferred and additional information from project proponent is awaited.

6 No: J-13012/120/2008-IA II (T) Name: 2x660 MW Super-Critical Technology Imported Coal Based TPP at village Lalapur District: Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh Company: M/s SJK Powergen Ltd

(Was last placed in the meeting of the EAC (T) scheduled during April, 2012. The proposal was deferred and additional information sought from PP was awaited. Hence proposal was de-listed) On receipt of additional information the project was placed again in the EAC (T) meeting held in January, 2013. Project was again deferred due to incomplete information and additional information sought from PP awaited.

Maharashtra 7 No: J-13012/112/08-IA-II (T)

Name: 2100 MW Gas based combined cycle power plant at village Kondgaon, Taluka Roha District: Raigad, Maharashtra

EC recommended but additional information sought regarding change in project profile and reconsidered in the 62nd meeting held in December, 2012. Committee reiterated its recommendation for EC. File under process.

Company: M/s Urban Energy Generation Pvt. Ltd.

8 No.: J-13012/86/2008-IA II (T) Name: 2100 MW Gas Based Thermal Power Plant at village Vangni, in Raigad Distt., in Maharashtra Company: M/s Urban Energy Ltd.

Was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) scheduled during April, 2012. Additional information sought received along with application for re-consideration for environmental clearance received in March, 2013. Will be placed in forth coming EAC (Thermal) meeting scheduled during April, 2013.

9 No.: J-13012/34/2012-IA II (T) Name: Expansion by addition of 19.8 MW Bagasse based co-generation Power Project at village Venunagar, Post- Gursale, Taluka Pandharpurin District: Solapur Company: M/s Shri Vithal Shakari Sakhar Karkhana Ltd.

The proposal for environmental clearance has been received and will be placed in the coming meeting of EAC (T) scheduled in April, 2013.

Orissa 10 No: J-13012/2/2007-IA II (T)

Name: 2x660 MW Super critical coal based Thermal Power Project District: Dhenkanal Company: M/s CESC Ltd.

The proposal was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) held in March, 2013. The proposal was deferred due to incomplete information and additional information has been sought from project proponent which is awaited.

Tamil Nadu 11 No. J-13012/155/2008-IA.II(T)

Name: 4000 MW UMPP of at village Cheyyur, District Kancheepuram, State: Tamil Nadu Company: M/s Coastal Tamil Nadu Power Ltd.

The proposal was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) held in February, 2013. Project deferred due to incomplete information and additional information sought has been received along with application for re-consideration for environmental clearance in March, 2013. The proposal will be placed in forth coming EAC (Tl) meeting scheduled in April, 2013.

Uttar Pradesh 12 No. J-13012/144/2007-IA.II(T)

Name: 2x660 MW Coal based Extension Units at Obra Thermal Power Station, District Sonebhadra State: Uttar Pradesh Company: M/s UP Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Ltd.

The proposal was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) held in November, 2012. Project was deferred and additional information sought from PP awaited.

13 No. J-13012/50/2010-IA.II(T) Name: 500 MW (Stage-IV) Coal Based Feroz Gandhi Unchahar Thermal Power Project District: Raebareli State: Uttar Pradesh Company: M/s NTPC Ltd.

The proposal was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) held in January, 2013. Project deferred. Additional information sought from PP has been submitted and was placed in the 66th Meeting of EAC (Thermal) held in February, 2013, wherein it was decided that a site visit need to be undertaken by sub-group of the EAC. On submission of the site visit report the proposal was placed in the meeting held in February, 2013. The proposal has been recommended for environmental clearance.

14 No. J-13012/3/2011-IA.II(T) Name: 2x660 MW Super critical coal based Thermal Power Project District: Mirzapur Company: M/s Welspun Energy UP Pvt. Ltd.

The proposal was placed in the meeting of EAC (T) held in March, 2013. Proposal incomplete and additional information sought from project proponent is awaited.

15 No: J-13012/204/10-IA-II (T) Name: 50 TPHFBC Boiler & Installation of 8 MW Captive Power Plant at Thakurdwara, District: Moradabad ,Uttar Pradesh Company: M/s Pasupati Acrylon Ltd.

The proposal was placed in meeting of the EAC (T) held in February, 2012. Additional information sought from project proponent have been received now and will be placed in the coming meetings of EAC (Thermal) scheduled in April, 2013.

West Bengal 16 Name: 2x20 MW coal based captive power plant at village

Bhumaraichak District: Haldia Company: M/s MCC PTA India Corpn. Pvt. Ltd.

Application for consideration for environmental clearance received March, 2013 and will be placed in the next meeting of EAC (T).

ANNEXURE-II

PENDING HYDROPOWER PROJECT PROPOSALS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE AS ON 31.03.2013

S.No State Hydroelectric Project Details Status

1 Karnataka Gundia Hydroelectric Project (200 MW) in District: Hassan & Dakshin Kannada, Karnataka by M/s. Karnataka Power Corporation Ltd.

The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) recommended for environmental clearance (EC) at its meeting held in June, 2010 with the condition that the Ministry may consider the recommendation of the Western Ghats Ecology Expert panel (WGEEP). The WGEEP report mentioned that the project may be rejected. MoEF has further constituted a High Level Working Group under the Chairmanship of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Member, Planning Commission for taking a view on the way forward to implement the WGEEP report.

2 Uttarakhand Naitwari Mori HEP ( 60 MW) Project in District: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand by M/s Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd

The project has been approved by the Competent Authority for according EC. However, Forest clearance yet to be obtained after which the EC will be issued.

3 Uttarakhand Devsari HEP ( 252 MW) in District: Chamoli, Uttarakhand by M/s Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd

Linked with the outcome of Sh. Chaturvedi Committee report, which has been been submitted just now. The case is being examined.

4 Arunachal Pradesh Hirong HEP (500 MW) Project in District: West Siang Arunachal Pradesh by M/s Jaypee Arunachal Power Ltd

Considered by EAC in November, 2012. EAC sought additional information/clarification which is awaited from the project proponent.

5 Madhya Pradesh Bina Complex Irrigation and Multipurpose Project (24 MW + 10 MW) District: Sagar in Madhya Pradesh M/s Water Resources Department, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh

EAC considered during February, 2012 and sought additional information/clarification. Reply is awaited from Project proponent.

6 Himachal Pradesh Lurhi HEP Stage-I Project (775 MW) District: Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh by M/s SJVN Ltd

Considered by EAC in November, 2012. EAC recommended for EC with conditions. Based on the environmental flow study, the capacity has been reduced from 775 MW to 600 MW. The same was placed before the EAC in the meeting held in February, 2013. The committee sought clarification on revised impact on environmental flow and muck disposal as a result of change in planning of the HEP. To be considered again during next EAC meeting.

7 Himachal Pradesh Seli HEP Project (400 MW)District: Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh by M/s Moser Baer Projects Ltd

The project has been approved by the Competent Authority for according EC. However, Forest clearance (FC) is yet to be obtained after which EC order would be issued.

8 Sikkim Teesta-IV HEP Project (520 MW) in North Sikkim District, Sikkim by M/s. NHPC Ltd

The project was recommended by EAC in its meeting held in February, 2013 for EC. FC has also been obtained. Now, the approval of the competent authority will be obtained.

9 Himachal Pradesh Chhatru HEP Project (120 MW) District: Lahul & Spiti in Himachal Pradesh by M/s DCM Shriram Infrastructure Ltd

The project was reconsidered by EAC on 27-28th April, 2012. The EAC sought additional information. Reply is still awaited from the project proponent

10 Jammu & Kashmir Baglihar Stage-II HEP Project (450 MW) in Ramban District, Jammu and Kashmir by M/s J&K Development Power Corporation

EAC recommended for EC. Approval of the competent authority will be obtained after Forest Clearance received is from State Government.

11 Jammu & Kashmir New Ganderbal HEP Project (93 MW) in New Ganderbal District, Jammu and Kashmir by M/s J&K Development Power Corporation

This project was considered by EAC in its meeting held on 26-27th December, 2012. The project was reconsidered in the meeting held in March, 2013 by EAC along with additional information/ clarifications. The EAC recommended EC for the

ANNEXURE-III

PENDING NUCLEAR POWER PROJECT PROPOSAL FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE AS ON 31.03.2013

1. Haryana

4x700 MWe Haryana Atomic Power Project at Village Gorakhpur, District Fatehabad, Haryana of M/s Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd.

Proposal considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee in March, 2013. Minutes under finalization.

DEVELOPMENT OF ZOOLOGICAL PARKS 23rd April, 2013 RSQ 3131. SHRI HISHEY LACHUNGPA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of zoological parks in the country, State-wise; (b) whether Government has finalized a vision document for the development of zoological parks and

birds sanctuaries in the country, particularly in the State of Sikkim; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes, Sir. There are 195 recognized zoological parks in the country. State-wise details is given in the Annexure. (b) & ( c ) The Central Zoo Authority has prepared a document “Vision 2020” for future development of Zoological Parks in the country which includes Himalayan Zoological Park, Gangtok in the State of Sikkim also. The Birds Sanctuaries do not come under the purview of the Central Zoo Authority.

ANNEXURE ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3131 REGARDING “DEVELOPMENT OF ZOOLOGICAL PARKS” BY SHRI HISHEY LACHUNGPA DUE FOR REPLY ON 23.04.2013. Number of Recognized Zoological Parks in the country, State-wise

State/Union Territory No. of recognized Zoological Parks Andaman & Nicobar Islands 1 Andhra Pradesh 19 Arunachal Pradesh 4 Assam 5 Bihar 1 Chhattisgarh 3 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 1 Delhi 2 Goa 1 Gujarat 9

project.

12 Uttarakhand Jeelam- Tamak HEP (108 MW) in Chamoli District of Uttarakhand by M/s. THDC India Ltd

Considered by EAC during March, 2013. The EAC sought additional information. The reply is awaited.

Haryana 7 Himachal Pradesh 7 Jammu & Kashmir 2 Jharkhand 5 Karnataka 16 Kerala 15 Madhya Pradesh 3 Maharashtra 14 Manipur 1 Meghalaya 2 Nagaland 1 Odisha 12 Punjab 5 Rajasthan 8 Sikkim 1 Tamil Nadu 9 Tripura 1 Uttar Pradesh 12 Uttarakhand 3 West Bengal 23

Total: 195 WIDE-SCALE POLLUTION OF RIVERS IN THE COUNTRY 23th April, 2013 RSQ 3132 DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of wide-scale pollution of main rivers of the country; (b) if so, their pollution level and whether their water is fit for drinking; (c) whether certain rivers are getting chocked to extinction; (d) the causes of pollution in these rivers; and (e) the details of action plan to eradicate the problem of pollution?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is monitoring water quality of rivers at 1275 locations covering 445 rivers in terms of Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Fecal Coliforms. Based on the Bathing Water Quality Criteria i.e. BOD equal to or less than 3.0 milligram/litre (mg/l), 150 polluted river stretches have been identified by CPCB. The objective of the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) is to ameliorate the pollution of major rivers in the country upto bathing water quality standard. (c) & (d) Pollution loads in the major rivers have been increasing over the years due to rapid urbanisation, industrialization and resultant wastewater generation. Extraction of water for irrigation, industrial, drinking purposes etc. leading to inadequate flows is compounding the problem. According to study of CPCB, against an estimated sewage generation of about 38254 million litres per day (mld) from the Class I cities & Class II towns of the country, the treatment capacity is available only for 11787 mld. (e) This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in abatement of pollution in rivers under the NRCP for implementation of projects on a cost sharing basis between the Central and State Governments. NRCP presently covers 41 rivers in 191 towns spread over 20 States. Various pollution abatement schemes taken up under the Plan, inter-alia, include interception and diversion of raw sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, creation of low cost sanitation facilities, setting up of electric/improved wood crematoria and river front development. In the process, sewage treatment capacity of 4704 mld has been created.

TIGER POPULATION IN FORESTS 30th April, 2013 RSQ *482 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Sundarbans of West Bengal, Sariska of Rajasthan, Simlipal of Odisha forests have no tiger population at all, although the official record, shows a number of tigers in these forests;

(b) whether it is also a fact that during the last three years no body has seen any tiger in these forests; and (c) the present process of tiger enumeration and when it was last done?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b) & (c):- A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *482 ON TIGER POPULATION IN FORESTS DUE FOR REPLY ON 30.04.2013. (a) & (b) No Sir. The Phase-IV yearly monitoring protocol using camera traps has been launched in all tiger reserves including Sundarbans, Similipal and Sariska which have camera trapped tigers in these reserves. Further, the latest country level assessment (2010) of tigers, co-predators and prey using the refined methodology, in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India, has also provided the details of tiger population in different landscapes. The said details are at Annexure-I. (c) The tiger population is estimated once every four years with a refined methodology of double sampling using camera traps in a ‘mark-recapture’ statistical framework at the landscape level. The last such country level assessment was done in the year 2010.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *482 ON TIGER POPULATION IN FORESTS DUE FOR REPLY ON 30.04.2013. Details of tiger estimation for the year 2006 and 2010

State Tiger Population 2006 2010 Increase/

Decrease/ Stable Estimate

(Number) Statistical Lower Limit


Estimate (Number)



Shivalik-Gangetic Plain Landscape Complex Uttarakhand 178 161 195 227 199 256 Increase Uttar Pradesh 109 91 127 118 113 124 Stable Bihar 10 7 13 8 (-)*** (-)*** (-)*** Stable Shivalik-Gangetic landscape

297 259 335 353

320 388 Stable

Central Indian Landscape Complex and Eastern Ghats Landscape Complex Andhra Pradesh 95 84 107 72 65 79 Decrease Chhattisgarh 26 23 28 26 24 27 Stable Madhya Pradesh 300 236 364 257 213 301 Stable Maharashtra 103 76 131 169 155 183 Increase Odisha 45 37 53 32 20 44 Stable Rajasthan 32 30 35 36 35 37 Stable

Jharkhand Not assessed 10 6 14 Could not be compared since it was not assessed in 2006.


601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable

Western Ghats Landscape Complex Karnataka 290 241 339 300 280 320 Stable Kerala 46 39 53 71 67 75 Increase Tamil Nadu 76 56 95 163 153 173 Increase Western Ghats landscape

402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase







100

84 118 148

118 178 Increase



TOTAL 1411 1165 1657 1706 1520 1909 *** Statistical lower / upper limits could not be ascertained owing to small size of the population. WORLD BANK ASSISTANCE FOR POLLUTION-FREE ENVIRONMENT 30th April, 2012 RSQ *484 DR. V. MAITREYAN : Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether World Bank has provided financial assistance to State Governments to maintain a pollution-free environment;

(b) if so, the details of the financial assistance provided to various State Governments including Tamil Nadu during the last three years and current year, State-wise and project-wise;

(c) whether the project ‘Capacity Building for Industrial Pollution Management Project’ was signed on 22nd July, 2010 with World Bank for International Bank for Reconstruction and Development loan of US$25.21 million and International Development Association Credit of SDR 25.7 million; and

(d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) whether any such projects are committed or planned for Tamil Nadu?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (e) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 484 to be answered on Tuesday, the 30th April, 2013 regarding “World Bank assistance for pollution-free environment” raised by Dr. V. Maitreyan (a) to (e) The Ministry has received financial assistance from the World Bank in three major areas namely National Ganga River Basin Programme, Integrated Coastal Zone Management Programme and Capacity Building for Industrial Pollution Management Project (CBIPMP). In case of National Ganga River Basin Programme, the World Bank will support the Government for abatement of pollution of river Ganga by providing technical assistance and financing of US$ 1 billion. The programme is to be implemented in the five Ganga basin states namely Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. Under Integrated Coastal Zone Management Programme, the World Bank will provide financial assistance of US$ 195 Million to the Government in building national capacity for implementation of comprehensive coastal management. This includes environment and pollution management as well as a few pilot projects envisaged in the States of Gujarat, Odisha and West Bengal. The World Bank has also provided financial assistance of US$ 75.39 million on account of Capacity Building for Industrial Pollution Management Project (CBIPMP) in order to undertake environmentally sound remediation of contaminated sites in the country including hazardous waste sites and municipal solid waste sites in the States of West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh. The Ministry of Environment and Forests is also implementing since September 2011, a World Bank assisted project on “Pilot Market based Emissions Trading Scheme to improve Air Quality in India” for a total cost of US$ 0.5 million to enable cost-effective compliance of air quality standards in selected industrial areas in the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. The amount spent on the project during 2011-12 and 2012-13 is Rs.49,46,485/- and Rs. 50,00,000/- respectively. No financial release has been made to the three State Governments of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu so far under the Project. The details of amount spent by the State agencies and the Ministry of Environment & Forests on three major areas namely National Ganga River Basin Programme, Integrated Coastal Zone Management Programme and Capacity Building for Industrial Pollution Management Project (CBIPMP) during the period 2010-11 to 2012-2013 is given in Annexure-I. Annexure-I referred to in reply to parts (a) to (e) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 484 to be answered on Tuesday, the 30th April, 2013 regarding “World Bank assistance for pollution-free environment” Financial assistance from the World Bank ( EAP- component)* provided to the states under National Ganga River Basin Programme

(Rs. in Crore) S.N. States and activities Financial Year Amount Spent

1. Uttarakhand Institutional Development

2010-11 - 2011-12 - 2012-13 1.06

2. Uttar Pradesh Institutional Development

2010-11 - 2011-12 - 2012-13 -

3. Bihar Institutional Development

2010-11 - 2011-12 - 2012-13 -

4. Jharkhand Institutional Development

2010-11 - 2011-12 - 2012-13 0.02

5. West Bengal 2010-11 -

*Loan agreement with the World Bank was signed in May 2011. Financial assistance from the World Bank under Integrated Coastal Zone Management Programme

(Rs. in Crore)

Financial assistance from the World Bank under Capacity Building for Industrial Pollution Management Project (CBIPMP)

(Rs. in Crore)

POLLUTION IN STATES 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3721 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that backward States like Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal are attracting more investments;

(b) whether any effective measures are being taken to control the air and water pollution in these States; (c) whether Government has received any complaint in this regard in Odisha; (d) if so, the details thereof; and

Institutional Development 2011-12 - 2012-13 0.25

Total 1.33*

S.N. States and activities Financial Year Amount Spent

1. Gujarat State Establishment of Sewerage network system in Jamnagar city

2010-11 0.1054 2011-12 2.6300 2012-13 12.49

2. Orissa Solid Waste Management at Paradip

2010-11 0.0058 2011-12 0.0097 2012-13 0.697

3. West Bengal 100% Household Electrification, Sagar.

2010-11 0.00 2011-12 0.00 2012-13 6.56

Total 21.8701

S.N. Implementing Agencies Financial Year Amount Spent

1. Ministry of Environment & Forests 2010-11 0.13 2011-12 1.48 2012-13 1.94

Sub-total 3.55 2. Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board 2010-11 0.45

2011-12 3.26 2012-13 8.06

Sub-total 11.77 3. West Bengal Pollution Control Board 2010-11 0.30

2011-12 2.77 2012-13 7.29

Sub-total 10.36 Grand Total 25.68

(e) if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) The States like Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal have laid down respective State industrial policies to attract investment. The investment / industrial projects are subjected to environmental clearances as per the category of the projects in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 2006. Such projects are considered by the Central and State Environmental Impact Assessment Authorities. The State Pollution Control Boards under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 monitor the implementation of compliance of the stipulated conditions. As informed by the Central Pollution Control Board, it has not received any complaint from Odisha. EIA NOTIFICATION OF 2006 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3722 SHRI A.A. JINNAH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the calculation of built up area includes areas which are 'open to sky' viz., roads, pavements etc. as per the amendment dated 4 April, 2011 to EIA Notification of 2006;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, which areas are included in the calculation of built up area?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) No, Sir. As per Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 as amended in April 2011, the built-up area is defined as ‘the built-up area or covered area on all the floors put together, including basement(s) and other service areas, which are proposed in building/construction projects’. Areas which are not covered or any area which is open to sky/ cut-out/duct is not counted in the calculation of built-up area. ENACTMENT OF FOREST RIGHT ACT 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3723 SHRI RAM JETHMALANI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that seven years ago Government had enacted the Forest Right Act for the convenience of tribals and forest dwellers;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that inspite of enactment of the above law people are being denied of benefits

thereof; (d) if so, the reaction of Government thereto; and (e) the details of States where this law is being ignored by denying them the benefits thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 also known as the Forest Rights Act, 2006 was enacted by the Parliament in 2006. The Act seeks to recognize and vest the forest rights and occupation in forest land in forest dwelling Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers, who have been residing in such forests for generations, but whose rights could not be recorded. Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the Nodal Agency for implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has notified the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Rules, 2008 and subsequently notified Amended Rules, 2012 on 6.9.2012, laying down the process for recognition of Forest Rights. The Act is being implemented by various States/ U.T. Governments as per the procedure laid down in the Act and Rules. As per available information the status of recognition of forest rights in the various States is given in Annexure-I.

Annexure-I Statement referred to in reply to the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3723 due for answer on 30.04.2013 asked by Shri Ram Jethmalani regarding Enactment of Forest Right Act. As on 31st, March, 2013, 32,45,369 claims have been filed and 12,81,926 titles have been distributed. A total of 27,95,668 claims have been disposed of (86.14%). State wise details of claims received, titles distributed and the extent of forest land for which titles distributed (individual and community), as on 31.03.2013, in major States, is as indicated below:

States No. of claims received No. of titles distributed Extent of forest land for which titles distributed (in acres)

Andhra Pradesh 3,30,479 (3,23,765 individual and 6,714 community)

1,67,797 (1,65,691 individual and 2,106 community)

14,51,223

Assam 1,31,911 (1,26,718 individual and 5,193 community)

36,267 (35,407 individual and 860 community)

77,609.17 for 34,286 titles

Bihar 2,930 28 Not Available Chhattisgarh 4,92,068 (4,87,332 individual

and 4,736 community) 2,15,443 (2,14,668 individual and 775 community)

5,38,076.38 (5,36,303.69 for individual and 1,772.69 for community) for 2,14,918 (2,14,668 individual and 250 community) titles

Gujarat 1,91,592 (1,82,869 individual and 8,723 community

42,752 (40,994 individual and 1,758 community)

51,570.79 for 40,994 titles

Himachal Pradesh 5,692 346 0.3548 Jharkhand 42,003 15,296 37,678.93 Karnataka 1,63,370 (1,60,474 individual

and 2,896 community) 6,554 (6,464 individual and 90 community) distributed

34902.73

Kerala 37,535 (36,140 individual and 1,395 community)

23,167 (23,163 individual and 4 community) distributed

32,104

Madhya Pradesh 4,72,108 (4,56,292 individual and 15,816 community)

1,73,062 (1,63,689 individual and 9,373 community) distributed

6,45,737.65

Maharashtra 3,44,330 (3,39,100 individual and 5,048 community)

99,368 (99,463 individual and 1868 community)

6,35,915.57 (2,58,139.32 individual and 3,77,776.25 community )

Orissa 5,32,464 (5,29,160 individual and 3304 community)

3,01,200 (3,00,321 individual and 879 community)

5,39,277.45 (4,84,025.80 individual and 55,251.65 community)

Rajasthan 64,596 (64,250 individual and 346 community)

32,616 distributed (32,559 individual and 57 community)

49,777.15 (49,357.62 individual and 4,19.53 community)

Tripura 1,82,617 (1,82,340 individual and 277 community)

1,20,473 distributed (1,20,418 individual and 55 community )

4,16,555.58 (4,16,498.79 for individual and 56.79 for community) for 1,16,100 titles

Uttar Pradesh 92,433 (91,298 individual and 1,135 community)


1,39,778.04

West Bengal 1,37,278 [1,29,454 individual and 7,824 community]


16,648.88 (16798.59 for individual and 50.29 for community)

THREAT TO WILD LIFE FROM POACHERS 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3724 DR. K. P. RAMALINGAM: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that deep inside Indian forests small and big creatures are facing threat from poachers as never seen before;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that during the year 2011-12 a record number of cases of smuggling involving

animals and parts of animals were registered; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Incidents of poaching of wild animals by poachers have come to the notice of the Ministry from time to time. However, the species are not facing threat from poachers as never before, as strict vigilance is maintained by the forest officials of the State/Union Territory Governments. The Ministry also provides financial assistance to the States and Union Territories for protection and management of Protected Areas. (c) &(d) As per the information received from the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, there are no reports indicating that a record number of cases of smuggling of animals and parts of animals were registered during the year 2011-12. POLLUTION BY DIESEL VEHICLES 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3725 SHRI N. BALAGANGA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the increasing number of diesel vehicles causes more pollution in the environment;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has constituted any expert body to suggest ways and means to reduce air

pollution; (d) if so, the details of the recommendations; and (e) the steps taken by Government to reduce air pollution at least in major cities of India?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) As reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the rise in air pollution in the country cannot be attributed by diesel vehicles only. The level of pollution in a given place is a concoction of emissions from various sources like industries, vehicles, domestic sources, Gen-sets, open burning of plastic, tyres. Further, meteorological conditions also play vital role in stagnation and dispersion of air pollutants. The major emissions from diesel vehicles are Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) and Particulate Matter (PM10). The rapidly increasing vehicular

population across the country is a matter of concern and it is likely to negate the positive impacts of the pollution control measures taken by the Central Government for controlling vehicular pollution. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is monitoring ambient air quality at various locations in the country under National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP). No specific expert committee has been constituted by the CPCB for reduction of air pollution from the vehicles. However, recently in December, 2012, Government of India has constituted an Expert Committee under the Chairmanship of Dr. Saumitra Chaudhuri, member, Planning Commission to draw the Auto Fuel Vision Policy road map up to the year 2025. (e) Steps taken to reduce air pollution in cities, include;

• Bharat stage-IV emission norms have been implemented in 13 mega cities including National Capital Region (NCR) for new 4-wheelers in 2010.

• Mass emission standards (Bharat stage III) have been notified for two, three wheelers and diesel driven agricultural tractors from April 1, 2010 throughout country.

• Operating Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) mode as fuel in all public transport vehicles in Delhi. • Introduction of metro in Delhi to promote use of mass public transport system. • Central and State Pollution Control Boards are implementing the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution)

Act 1981, to restore Air quality. • A mutually time targeted programme is implemented under Corporate Responsibility on Environment

Protection (CREP). • Source-apportionment studies for fine particulate matter in ambient air in six cities namely; Delhi, Kanpur,

Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore and Pune; • Implementation of action plan in 16 highly polluted cities as well as action plan oriented approach for 43

Critically Polluted Areas under a Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index prepared by CPCB. FOREST DEVELOPMENT AND AFFORESTATION PROJECTS 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3726 SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has established any mechanism to monitor the proper implementation of schemes related to forest development and afforestation projects in the States/Union Territories;

(b) if so, the details thereof, including Karnataka, State-wise; and (c) the funds spent under the scheme during the last three years, State-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in participatory mode under Joint Forest Management (JFM). The guidelines envisage monitoring of implementation of NAP projects by State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) & Forest Development Agency (FDA) at state & district level respectively. Monitoring of project sites by Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System is also provided. Besides NAP, under Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IFMS) aiming at protection & conservation of forests, monitoring is done by the State Governments as per the norms. Periodic physical verification of the works is also conducted by this Ministry.

The State Governments including Karnataka do also furnish progress reports and utilization certificates under both schemes as per approved Annual Work Plans. (c) The details of funds released under the NAP and IFMS schemes to State/Union Territory Governments, including Karnataka, during the last three years is given in Annexure I & II.

Annexure I ANNEXURE REFFERED TO IN REPLY PART (c) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NUMBER 3726 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 30/04/2013 REGARDING FOREST DEVELOPMENT AND AFFORESTATION PROJECTS DETAILS OF FUNDS RELEASED UNDER THE NAP DURING LAST THREE YEARS

(Rs.in Crore) S. No. State Amount Released

2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 1 Andhra Pradesh 10.48 15.15 2.71 2 Bihar 5.48 6.92 3.40 3 Chhattisgarh 33.25 24.74 13.33 4 Goa 0 0.00 0.00 5 Gujarat 29.43 27.00 14.30 6 Haryana 24.20 12.28 6.41 7 Himachal Pradesh 3.45 3.50 3.62 8 Jammu & Kashmir 3.99 6.89 3.37 9 Jharkhand 8.73 10.42 4.69 10 Karnataka 8.12 12.92 6.81 11 Kerala 7.54 2.04 11.30 12 Madhya Pradesh 30.39 21.43 9.15 13 Maharashtra 16.17 28.51 28.87 14 Orissa 11.20 7.30 3.38 15 Punjab 0 0.46 0.76 16 Rajasthan 4.94 6.23 4.14 17 Tamil Nadu 7.21 3.08 2.78 18 Uttar Pradesh 21.33 26.23 15.27 19 Uttarakhand 4.47 6.61 6.25 20 West Bengal 4.12 6.29 2.57 Total (Other States) 234.50 228.00 143.11

21 Arunachal Pradesh 5.52 0.00 1.66 22 Assam 6.08 7.95 1.47 23 Manipur 10.37 12.74 9.46 24 Meghalaya 8.79 4.31 9.10 25 Mizoram 12.21 13.44 8.78 26 Nagaland 10.11 11.69 10.88 27 Sikkim 11.99 11.18 5.42 28 Tripura 10.43 13.69 3.50 Total (NE States) 75.49 75.00 50.26 G. Total 309.99 303.00 193.37

Annexure II

ANNEXURE REFFERED TO IN REPLY PART (c) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NUMBER 3726 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 30/04/2013 REGARDING FOREST DEVELOPMENT AND AFFORESTATION PROJECTS DETAILS OF FUNDS RELEASED UNDER THE IFMS DURING LAST THREE YEARS

(Rs. In Crore) S.No. States Amount Released

2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 1 2 3 4 5 1 Andhra Pradesh 1.37 0.00 0.00

2 Bihar 1.19 0.82 0.00 3 Chhattisgarh 3.68 4.30 3.98 4 Goa 0.25 0.11 2.43 5 Gujarat 4.30 3.48 0.08 6 Haryana 1.02 0.76 0.96 7 Himachal Pradesh 2.88 2.46 2.26 8 Jammu & Kashmir 0.00 0.00 2.10 9 Jharkhand 1.51 3.41 2.13 10 Karnataka 2.06 3.49 3.61 11 Kerala 2.57 1.45 1.51 12 Madhya Pradesh 3.80 6.98 8.87 13 Maharashtra 2.62 3.74 2.69 14 Orissa 2.30 1.33 1.50 15 Punjab 0.76 0.00 0.00 16 Rajasthan 1.04 1.61 2.37 17 Tamil Nadu 1.44 2.45 1.41 18 Uttar Pradesh 2.14 1.40 1.31 19 Uttarakhand 1.35 2.30 3.43 20 West Bengal 1.73 0.51 0.71 Total 37.99 40.60 41.34

NE & Sikkim 1 Assam 2.03 2.47 0.00 2 Arunachal Pradesh 3.26 2.61 0.00 3 Manipur 1.68 3.29 1.18 4 Meghalaya 1.22 1.61 1.45 5 Mizoram 3.50 2.53 2.92 6 Nagaland 1.84 3.47 0.00 7 Sikkim 2.59 2.89 0.35 8 Tripura 1.89 0.61 3.77

Total 18.00 19.47 9.66 Union Territories

1 A & N Islands 0.26 0.30 0.05 2 Chandigarh 0.60 0.34 0.00 3 D&N Haveli 0.00 0.00 0.00 4 Daman & Diu 0.00 0.00 0.00 5 Lakshadweep 0.00 0.00 0.00 6 New Delhi 0.00 0.00 0.00 7 Pondicherry 0.00 0.00 0.00

Total 0.86 0.65 0.05 Grand Total 56.85 60.72 51.06

CONSERVATION OF WILDLIFE IN THE COUNTRY 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3727 DR. K. P. RAMALINGAM: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that India is home for 6.5 per cent of the world’s wildlife species even though it accounts for less than two per cent of the planet’s green cover;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that Government has taken several measures to preserve the endangered

species; and (d) if so, the details thereof?


(a) & (b) India represents just 2.4% world’s geographical area. As per State Forest Report 2011 published by Forest Survey of India, the forest and tree cover in India is 78.29 m ha which is 23.81% of the geographical area of the country. As per report by Botanical Survey of India, India is having about 298,000 plant species. The Indian Flora accounts for 11.4% of the total recorded plant species of the world and about 28% of the plant species are endemic to India. Further, as per report by Zoological Survey of India, India is known to have over 7.50% of the species of animals that the world holds and this percentage accounts nearly for 92,037 species so far known, of which insects alone include 61,375 species. It is estimated that about two times that number of species still remains to be discovered in India. (c)&(d) The Government has taken following steps for protection of endangered species of wild animals in the country:

i. Protected Areas, viz., National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves covering important wildlife habitats have been created all over the country under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to conserve wild animals and their habitats.

ii. ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ are focused Centrally Sponsored Schemes on conservation of endangered species namely tiger and elephant. A specific component of “Recovery programmes for saving critically endangered species and habitats’ is provided in the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ for focused conservation action on selected critically endangered species.

iii. Legal protection has been provided to wild animals against hunting and commercial exploitation under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

iv. In addition to provision of stringent punishment for the offenders, the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 also provides for forfeiture of any equipment, vehicle or weapon that is used for committing wildlife offence(s).

v. Protected Areas, viz., National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves covering important wildlife habitats have been created all over the country under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to conserve wild animals and their habitats.

vi. ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ are focused Centrally Sponsored Schemes on conservation of endangered species namely tiger and elephant. A specific component of “Recovery programmes for saving critically endangered species and habitats’ is provided in the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ for focused conservation action on selected critically endangered species.

vii. Financial and technical assistance is provided to the State/ Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes for providing better protection to wildlife including endangered species and improvement of its habitat.

viii. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been empowered under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to apprehend and prosecute wildlife offenders.

ix. The State/Union Territory Governments have been requested to strengthen the field formations and intensify patrolling in and around the Protected Areas.

x. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to ensure co-ordination among various officers and State Governments in connection with the enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.

xi. Strict vigil is maintained by the officials of State Departments of Forests and Wildlife. DIVERSION OF LAND IN KUTCH DESERT SANCTUARY IN GUJARAT 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3728 SMT SMRITI ZUBIN IRANI SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state

(a) whether Government has received a proposal for diversion of land in Kutch Desert Sanctuary and Wild Ass Sanctuary, Gujarat for construction of road from Gaduli-Santalpur;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the response of Government thereto in view of the strategic and security importance of this area?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests had received a proposal from the Government of Gujarat for diversion of 79.474 ha of forest land in Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary and Wild Ass Sanctuary for construction of Gaduli to Hajipur-Odma-Khavda-Kunaria-Dholavira-Maovana-Gadakbet-Santalpur Road (S.H. Road). The proposal involves development of new roads passing through Flamingo nesting area, ecologically important mangrove areas, to meet needs of the Border Security Forces (BSF). Since the proposal involves diversion of land from Wildlife Sanctuary, it was placed for consideration of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife in its meeting held on 25th April 2011. The Committee decided to carry out a site inspection before taking a view in the matter. The site inspection report was considered by the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife in its 25th Meeting held on 13th June 2012, 26th meeting held on 31st October 2012 and 27th meeting held on 12th December 2012. Standing Committee have advised the project proponents to submit a revised proposal keeping in view the recommendation in the site inspection report. DIVERSION OF ZUDPI FOREST LAND FOR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3729 DR. BHARATKUMAR RAUT: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state

(a) whether the Ministry has received a proposal from the State Government of Maharashtra for diversion of Zudpi forest land for developing World Class Multi-model International Airport hub near the existing Nagpur airport;

(b) the details of the present status of the proposal and reasons of delay in granting approval thereof; and (c) by when the final approval will be accorded by the Central Government to the proposal?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c): Yes, Sir. A proposal for diversion of 9.17 ha of zudpi jungle for developing World Class Multimodel International Hub Airport in Nagpur District was received. The proposal was granted “In-principle” approval on 13 March 2012. Final approval depends upon receipt of the compliance of the conditions of the “In-principle” approval, which is awaited from the State Government. INCREASED POLLUTION LEVEL IN DELHI 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3730 SHRI MOTILAL VORA:

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state

(a) whether it is a fact that pollution level has increased five times in the last eight years in National Capital, Delhi;

(b) whether it is also a fact that nitrogen oxide level in air is 50 to 55 microgram per cubic meter and respirable suspended particulate matter has increased four times and become 250 microgram per cubic meter; and

(c) if so, the reasons for increase in pollution and the steps being taken by Government to control it? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) are monitoring ambient air in Delhi. As per data provided by CPCB, the levels of Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) are within the norms and showing a decreasing trend since 2001. The levels (annual averages) of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM)/PM10 (particulate matter having aerodynamic diameter less than or, equal to 10 micron) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) are exceeding the notified standards. There is a fluctuating trend. Nitrogen Oxide (NO) is not a notified pollutant. (c) Emissions from vehicles, suspended road side dust, industries, thermal power plants, construction activities, etc. are the main sources of air pollution. Steps taken by the Central Government for controlling air pollution include supply of improved auto-fuel, tightening of vehicular and industrial emission norms, mandatory environmental clearance for specified industries, management of municipal, hazardous and bio-medical wastes, promotion of cleaner technologies, strengthening the network of air quality monitoring stations, source apportionment studies, banning coal fired boilers in Delhi, strengthening public transport including metro network, public awareness, etc. CHANGE IN FLOW OF GANGES DUE TO SOIL EROSION 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3731 SHRI P. BHATTACHARYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the soil erosion by Ganges has been increasing every year from Anandotsav Ashram to Saptrishi Ashram at Motipur in Dehradun district in Uttarakhand due to which a large number of trees in dense forest of Rajaji Park at Haripur Kalan are getting destroyed and the flow of river is heading towards residential areas posing danger to 25-30 Ashrams situated there along with the forests;

(b) if so, whether Government proposes to take any step to protect the forest, residential areas and Ashrams from the change on flow of the river Ganges;

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

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) No Sir. (b) to (d) Does not arise. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR MALLS AND MULTI-STOREYED BUILDINGS IN TAMIL NADU

30th April, 2013 RSQ 3732 DR. V. MAITREYAN: Will the MINISTER of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state

(a) whether the number of shopping malls and corporate offices and Multi-storied townships in Tamil Nadu have been given environmental clearance during the years 2006-2011;

(b) if so, the details of such projects thereof; (c) whether the Central Government had sanctioned and accorded environmental clearance for any such

projects of the corporate company near the coastal areas of Chennai adjoining Adyar river estuary; and (d) if so, the details thereof and whether it is not a violation under the Manuals of the Ministry?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (d) Under the provisions of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 1991/2011, 147 projects of Building and Construction, Township and Area Development, Hotels and Beach Resorts were granted clearance in Tamil Nadu during the years 2006-2011. This includes 14 projects within the CRZ area for which the clearances were granted after following the due procedure under the CRZ Notification. LACK OF FACILITIES FOR DISPOSAL OF WASTES IN DELHI HOSPITALS 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3733 SHRI MOHAMMED ADEEB: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that notices have been issued to some hospitals in Delhi such as Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Hospital, Lok Nayak Hospital, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Hospital, Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospital, Holy Angel, Holy Family, St. Stephens Hospitals, Sharma Nursing Home and Diagnostic Centre, Shiv Shakti Charitable Hospital, DHD Nursing Home, Jaipur Golden Hospital and Chanan Devi Hospital for lack of facilities for the proper disposal of wastes;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the action being taken against these hospitals?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c): As per the information provided by the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of NCT of Delhi and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), none of these hospitals have been issued notices for lack of facilities for proper disposal of waste. All these hospitals are handing over their entire bio-medical waste to the approved Common Bio-Medical Waste Treatment Facilities (CBMWTFs) operating in Delhi except Lok Nayak Hospital and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Hospital, which are treating their autoclavable bio-medical waste in their own premises. However, based on the observations made during inspections, six hospitals have been issued notices for improper management of bio-medical waste, namely, (i) Lok Nayak Hospital, (ii) Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Hospital, (iii) Holy Family Hospital, (iv) St. Stephen’s Hospital, (v) Mata Chanan Devi Hospital, and (vi) Jaipur Golden Hospital.

MENACE CAUSED BY STRAYING TIGERS 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3734 SHRI S. THANGAVELU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that new guidelines have been issued to deal with straying tigers; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that the menace of straying tigers as well as loss of life have increased in the

recent past during the last few years; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Yes Sir. Based on inputs from field officers, experts and advisories, a ‘Standard Operating Procedure’ has been issued for dealing with emergency arising due to straying of tigers in human dominated landscapes, which is available in public domain at www.projecttiger.nic.in. (c) & (d) Straying/dispersal of tigers in human dominated landscapes and loss of human life / killing of tiger / livestock depredation have come to light in Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh during the last few years, near tiger source areas. NATIONAL PLAN FOR CLIMATE CHANGE 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3735 SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has formulated any national plan regarding climate change; (b) if so, the details thereof and the details of those States along with Madhya Pradesh where this action

plan is likely to be implemented; and (c) by when work is likely to start under this plan?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) Government has released the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) on June 30, 2008 that outlines eight National missions and 24 other initiatives in specific areas of solar energy, enhanced energy efficiency, sustainable habitat, water, sustaining Himalayan ecosystems, green India, sustainable agriculture and strategic knowledge for climate change. The National Missions under NAPCC have been implemented by nodal ministries. State Governments including Madya Pradesh have been requested to prepare State Action Plans on Climate Change for implementation. INCREASED LEVEL OF SPM IN DELHI AND OTHER METROPOLITAN CITIES 30th April, 2013

RSQ 3736 SMT MAYA SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Suspended Particulate Matters (SPM) are increasing in Delhi and other metropolitan cities of the country due to the pollution, as a result dust particles remain suspended on the lower level resulting in many types of problems and diseases being faced by people;

(b) the quantum of increase in the SPM over the last decade in Delhi and other Metropolitan cities; (c) the measures taken to reduce it or stop it at certain level; (d) whether the factors responsible for spreading pollution have been identified; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b). The National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) were revisited and notified in November, 2009. In line with international scenario, the earlier listed pollutant ‘Suspended Particulate Matter’ (SPM), has been withdrawn from the list of notified pollutants. Instead PM10 (particles having aerodynamic diameter less than or, equal to 10 mircon) has been included in NAAQS-2009 apart from PM2.5. The monitoring of pollutant ‘SPM’ has been discontinued across the national including Delhi and other metro cities. As far as, earlier data on SPM is concerned, a mixed trend was observed and it has exceeded the notified standards in a number of cities including Delhi. Accordingly to some epidemiological studies, health effects such as manifestation of respiratory and cardiovascular aliments etc. could be associated with air pollution. However, there is no conclusive data available to substantiate these findings. (c) & (e). Emissions from vehicles, suspended roadside dust, industries, thermal power plants, construction activities etc. are the main source of air pollution. Steps taken by the Central Government for control air pollution include formulation of a Comprehensive Policy for Abatement of Pollution, supply of improved auto-fuel, tightening of vehicular and industrial emission norms, mandatory environmental clearance for specified industries, management of municipal, hazardous and bio-medical wastes, promotion of cleaner technologies, strengthening the network of air quality monitoring stations, source apportionment studies, preparation and implementation of action plans for major cities & critically polluted areas, public awareness, etc. HARMONISING ECO-TOURISM AND NON-FOREST ACTIVITY 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3737 DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether promotion of the non-forest activities, including eco-tourism policy tends to violate various provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980;

(b) if so, the reaction of Government thereto; (c) whether Government has taken steps to check indiscriminate exploitation of the forests in the name of

promotion of tourism especially in the hilly areas of the country; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the steps taken or being taken by Government to harmonise eco-tourism and non-forest activities, with

various provisions of the said Act?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) ( a) to (d) Use of forest land for non-forest activities, including those related to eco-tourism, requires prior approval of Central Government in accordance with Section-2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The State and Union Territory Governments therefore, need to obtain prior approval of the Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for execution of those components of the eco-tourism projects which as per the explanation given below Section-2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 may be defined as non-forest purpose. (e) The Ministry of Environment and Forests issued guidelines for tourism in and around tiger reserves to inter-alia harmonise eco-tourism activities around the tiger reserves with various provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. RISING SEA LEVEL IN COASTAL AREAS OF GUJARAT 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3738 SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA: SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of action taken by Government in consultation with the State Government of Gujarat to protect a number of coastal areas of the State which may be swallowed by sea within coming decades;

(b) whether Government has conducted any study in this regard; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) whether the Ministry is also approaching the Department of Ocean Development in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) No, Sir. (d) Does not arise. RISE IN DEATH OF LEOPARDS 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3739 SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that 252 leopards died in the first nine months of 2012, i.e. practically one every day;

(b) if so, the reasons for this sudden quantum jump from the figures between 2000 and 2010 from four leopards’ death reported every week;

(c) whether the increase is attributable to rise in poaching as some of the NGOs claim or earlier such deaths were not reported; and

(d) whether Government will strategize the efforts so as to effectively tackle illegal trade of wildlife species?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b) & (c) Incidents of death of leopards do come to the notice of this Ministry. However, this Ministry does not have any report of death of 252 leopards during the first nine months of 2012. The causes of death in reported cases include poaching, retaliatory killing by local people, killing by other predators, accidents, electrocution, natural deaths, poisoning, etc. Augmentation of protection efforts in the states with the help of Centrally Sponsored programmes like ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’, ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ has improved the protection work including reporting of offences. (d) Government has taken the following steps to tackle illegal trade of wild animals including leopards and their parts and products:

i) Legal protection has been provided to many species of wild animals against hunting and commercial exploitation under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. According to the conservation and threat status, wild animals are placed in different Schedules of the Act. Hunting of all the animals listed in Schedules I, II, III and IV of the Act has been prohibited except in accordance with sections 11 and 12 of the Act.

ii) Leopard has been included in Schedule I, which accords it the highest degree of protection under the Act. The trade and commerce in wild animals, animal articles, trophies, etc. derived from animals listed in Schedule I has been prohibited under the Act.

iii) India is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild fauna and flora (CITES) in which leopard is listed in Appendix I, providing for strict regulation of international trade in leopard specimens.

iv) The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up with a network of five regional offices, three sub-regional offices and five border units for assisting the States in control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.

v) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been empowered under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to apprehend and prosecute wildlife offenders.

vi) The State Governments have been requested to strengthen the field formations and intensify patrolling in and around the Protected Areas.

POLLUTION IN DIFFERENT STATES 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3740 SHRI VIVEK GUPTA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry has undertaken any study on the level of pollution in different States of the country:

(b) the position of all the States and cities in the environmental pollution index; and (c) the measures taken by the Ministry to check the increase in pollution, city-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi has carried out comprehensive environmental assessment in 88 prominent /major industrial clusters based on the Comprehensive Environment Pollution Index (CEPI) criteria in 2009. Out of the 88 industrial clusters, 43 industrial

clusters with CEPI score 70 and above were identified as critically polluted areas. The state-wise list of 43 critically polluted industrial clusters is enclosed as Annexure-I. (c) For restoration of environmental quality in the 43 critically polluted industrial clusters areas, State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)/Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) were directed to prepare Action Plans. These Action Plans highlighted the pollution caused by different sources (domestic as well as industrial) and remedial measure, i.e. action plan envisages to mitigate the pollution caused by these sources. These action plans were finalized in light of suggestions of Steering Committee comprising national level experts and an in-house committee comprising senior officers of CPCB. So far, 39 action plans have been finalized. The implementation of these action plans would lead to improvement of environmental quality of the 43 critically polluted areas

Annexure-I S. No. State/Union Territory Critically Polluted Areas

1. Gujarat Ankleshwar, Vapi, Ahmedabad, Vatva, Bhavnagar, Junagarh 2. Maharashtra Chandrapur, Dombivalli, Aurangabad, Navi-Mumbai, Tarapur 3. Tamil Nadu Vellore-North Arcot, Cuddalore, Manali, Coimbatore 4. Madhya Pradesh Indore 5. Punjab Ludhiana, Mandi-Gobindgarh 6. Jharkhand Dhanbad 7. Delhi Najafgarh drain basin 8. Kerala Greater Cochin 9. Karnataka Mangalore, Bhadravati 10. Andhra Pradesh Vishakhapatnam, Patancheru-Bollaram 11. Orissa Angul Talcher, Ib-Valley and Jharsuguda 12. West Bengal Haldia, Howrah, Asansole 13. Uttar Pradesh Ghaziabad, Singrauli, Noida, Kanpur, Agra, Varanasi-Mirzapur 14. Rajasthan Jodhpur, Pali, Bhiwadi 15. Haryana Faridabad, Panipat 16. Chhattisgarh Korba

FLOW OF FRESH WATER IN YAMUNA 30th April, 2013 RSQ 3741 DR. RAM PRAKASH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has signed any agreement in March, 2013 with Brijbasi protesters demanding constant flow of fresh water in Yamuna;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) by when the work would be started in this direction; and (d) by when this work would be completed along with the details of the estimated expenditure involved in it?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Government had constituted a team of Ministers headed by Union Minister of Water Resources to examine the issues raised by the Padyatris with regards to river Yamuna. The team held discussions on 11.03.2013 and 12.03.2013 and the understanding reached included examination of various aspects for releasing more water in river Yamuna and nomination of two representatives of Yamuna Rakshak Dal, Maan Mandir Barsana Mathura (UP) in the Technical Sub Group. (c) & (d) The steps taken by Ministry of Water resources in view of the demands made by the Padyatris includes constitution of Committees for the following:

(i) To explore possibility of storing monsoon waters to meet shortage in non monsoon season. (ii) To explore possibility of storing water on both banks of the river during floods and to explore feasibility of

new barrage downstream of Okhala. (iii) To frame the proposal of rain water harvesting and ground water recharge in NCT of Delhi. (iv) To expedite the Kishau Storage Project.

PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION OF WILD LIFE IN ASSAM 7th May, 2013 RSQ *564 SHRI KUMAR DEEPAK DAS: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of its commitments for protection and conservation of wild life in Assam;

(b) if so, the effective steps taken for the same; (c) the details of the one horned Rhinoceros killed during 2011-13; (d) whether Government has fixed any responsibilities or any action has been taken against any senior

officer of its respective departments for such incidents; (e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) the details of the enquiry reports of such incidents which took place between 2011-13?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (f) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (f) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *564 REGARDING ‘PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION OF WILD LIFE IN ASSAM’ BY SHRI KUMAR DEEPAK DAS DUE FOR REPLY ON 07.05.2013. (a) and (b) The State Government of Assam as well as the Government of India are fully committed to protection and conservation of wildlife in Assam. The State Government of Assam is taking appropriate action for protection and conservation of wildlife. The details of the action taken are as follows:

i. Declaration of most of the one horned rhinoceros habitats as Tiger Reserves, thereby enhancing the management effectiveness through a focused scheme including increasing budgetary allocation and protection machinery. The measures taken for protection of rhino population have resulted in a sustained increase in their population in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, as per the following census figures received from the State Government:

Year Estimated population (Nos.) 2006 1855 2009 2048 2012 2290 2013 2328

ii. Improvement of infrastructure like anti poaching camp, raised platform, vehicles, speed boats, mechanized boats, wooden boats, wireless networks etc.

iii. Intensification of patrolling duties in rhino bearing areas and also effective legal action like conducting raids for detection of offences and to apprehend offenders and prosecution thereof.

iv. The State Government is improving the Rhinoceros habitat and also enhancing it by addition of suitable areas in view of the fact that rhinoceros population has been increasing in recent years.

v. Raising and deployment of 2nd battalion of Assam Forest Protection Force equipped with sophisticated fire arms, deployment of Armed Home Guards and posting of additional forest staff in the rhino bearing protected areas.

vi. Wildlife (Protection) (Assam Amendment) Act, 2009 has enhanced the punishment to the poachers by extending it to up to life imprisonment and a fine of Rs. 75,000/- and making the wildlife offences non-bailable and cognizable.

vii. All the Forest Officers charged with maintenance of public order relating to forest and wildlife protection, conservation and management have been granted power to use firearms under sub-section 2 of section 197 of CrPC. They have also been given protection against prosecution without prior Government sanction. This has given big morale boost to all the field staff engaged in wildlife protection.

viii. Constitution of State and District level Co-ordination Committee to share intelligence inputs among the Forest, Police and Civil Administration to combat rhino poaching in the State.

ix. Constitution of Eco-Development Committees in the fringe villages for helping the Protected Areas management in protecting rhinoceros from poachers.

Further, the Central Government has provided financial assistance to the State Government of Assam under various schemes to boost protection of wildlife and management thereof. The details of funding (Rs. Lakh) provided are as below: Year Name of the Schemes

IDWH* Project Tiger Project Elephant 2010-11 186.63 1509.4720 139.55 2011-12 234.17 947.5088 200.00 2012-13 146.00 373.894 250.00 *IDWH: Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat Financial assistance is provided for various activities like habitat management, anti poaching activities, infrastructure development, purchase of arms and ammunition, purchase of wireless handsets, construction of anti poaching camp, deployment of labour to enhance vigilance against the depredation of animals, construction/raising of patrolling road, maintenance of vehicles, country boats, mechanized boats, speed boats, eco development activities etc. (c) As per information received from the State Government of Assam, details of one horn rhinoceros killed during

Year No. of Rhinos killed 2011 09 2012 22 2013 (up to 01-05-2013) 16

(d) to (f) As informed by the State Government of Assam, investigation of poaching cases is being actively pursued and necessary legal action would be taken against the guilty. CONSERVATION OF ESA ZONES 7th May, 2013 RSQ * 565 SMT VASANTHI STANLEY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be please to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Environmentally Sensitive Area(ESA) zones are often being invaded by miners; and

(b) the details of the steps taken by the Ministry to conserve these areas?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDANT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION No. *565 REGARDING “CONSERVATION OF ESA ZONES” BY SHRIMATI VASANTHI STANLEY FOR REPLY ON 07.05.2013. (a) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has so far notified 12 ecologically sensitive zones including the areas around the National Parks and Sanctuaries under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The list of notified eco-sensitive zones is at Annexure. In these notified eco-sensitive zones no such invasion by miners has come to the notice of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. (b) The steps taken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests to conserve the eco-sensitive zones include the following:

i. Eco-Sensitive Zones are notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 for certain identified areas and areas around National Parks and Sanctuaries. In these Notifications, provisions have been made to regulate / prohibit certain developmental activities.

ii. For the purpose of effective management of Eco-Sensitive Zones, provision is made for preparation of Zonal Master Plan for integrating environmental and ecological considerations.

iii. In order to ensure compliance of the provisions of the notified Eco-Sensitive Zones, the notification provides for constitution of a Monitoring Committee.

iv. The Chairman / Member Secretary of the Monitoring Committee is empowered to file complaint under Section 19 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 against any person who contravenes the provisions of the Eco-Sensitive Zone Notification.

v. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has issued guidelines for establishment of Eco-Sensitive Zones around National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for ensuring that conservation friendly activities are taken up in the vicinity of protected areas.

vi. State Governments were requested to submit site specific proposals for declaration of eco-sensitive zones around the National Parks and Sanctuaries.

vii. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has constituted an Expert Committee comprising of representatives of relevant institutions for finalization of the Eco-Sensitive Zone Notifications.

viii. Developmental activities that are located within 10 kms of the boundary of National Parks and Sanctuaries and requiring prior clearance under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, are referred to the Standing Committee for National Board for Wildlife constituted under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for consideration.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION No. *565 REGARDING “CONSERVATION OF ESA ZONES” BY SHRIMATI VASANTHI STANLEY FOR REPLY ON 07.05.2013. S. No. Proposal Present status Area/Width of ESZ

(As applicable) 1. Mahableshwar -Panchgani Eco-Sensitive

Zone, Maharashtra Final notification issued on 17.01.2001

237.28 Square Km

2. Matheran Eco-Sensitive Zone, Maharashtra

Final notification issued on 04.02.2003

214.73 Square Km and 200 meters buffer zone

3. Mount Abu, Eco-Sensitive Zone, Rajasthan


Entire of area of notified urban area limit, including Mount Abu Municipal Limits adjoining forest block area.

4. Sultanpur Eco-Sensitive Zone, Haryana Final notification issued on 27.01.2010

Upto 5 kms from the boundary of the Protected Area

5. Dandi Eco-Sensitive Zone, Gujarat Final notification issued on 26.04.2011

22586.46 Hectares comprising of adjacent five villages

6. Girnar Eco-Sensitive Zone, Gujarat Final notification issued on 31.05.2012


7. Narayan Sarovar Eco-Sensitive Zone, Gujarat


Upto 2.5 kms from the boundary of the Protected Area

8. Purna Eco-Sensitive Zone, Gujarat Final notification issued on 31.05.2012

Upto 2kms from the boundary of the Protected Area

9. Vansda Eco-Sensitive Zone, Gujarat Final notification issued on 31.05.2012


10. Dalma Eco-Sensitive Zone, Jharkhand Final notification issued on 29.03.2012


11. Bandipur Eco-Sensitive Zone, Karnataka Final notification issued on 04.10.2012

Upto 7.78 kms from the boundary of the Protected Area

12. Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone, Uttarakhand


4179.59 Square Km.

STUDY ON IMPACT OF UN-PREDICTABLE CLIMATIC CHANGE 7th May, 2013 RSQ *567 SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry has advised the State Government of Gujarat to submit proposals for study on probable impact of un-predictable climate change, during the last three years;

(b) by when the Ministry is going to allocate necessary funds to the State Government of Gujarat in this regard;

(c) whether Government intends to provide necessary funds to the State Government to study probable impact of un-predictable climatic condition on agriculture sector too; and

(d) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to Part (a) to (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 567 by Shri Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala regarding “Study on impact of un-predictable climatic change” This Ministry has not advised the Government of Gujarat for submitting proposal to study impact of unpredictable climate change. All State Governments have been requested to prepare a State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) in line with the objectives of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), addressing state specific issues including agriculture sector. During the 12th Five year Plan the thematic scheme on Climate Change Action Programme (CCAP) with an outlay of Rs. 300 Crores has been approved to build capacity and support implementation of relevant actions at the national and state level. Further, it has also been intended to provide support to initiate climate change related activities at State level in line with the SAPCC through National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change under NAPCC. However, no specific allocation has been made for the Government of Gujarat in this regard. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR THE KALU DAM IN THANE DISTRICT 7th May, 2013 RSQ *568 SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE:


(a) whether it is a fact that the Forest Advisory Committee of the Ministry is reconsidering its decision granting environmental clearance for the Kallu Dam in Thane district in the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats region;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the construction work of the dam had commenced before all legal requirements were fulfilled; (d) whether the Environmental Impact Assessment and other studies have not yet been done; and (e) if so, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (e) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 568 BY SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE REGARDING ‘ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR THE KALU DAM IN THANE DISTRICT’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 07.05.2013. (a) to (b) Yes, Sir. The Forest Advisory Committee in its meeting held on 3rd and 4th April, 2013 has recommended the diversion of 999.328 ha of forest land in Raigad Forest Division for drinking water supply project on Kalu River by Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation, in district Thane, Maharashtra with standard and general conditions like payment of Net Present Value (NPV), Compensatory Afforestation, minimum felling of trees as per requirement, etc. and following additional conditions:-

1. The recommendations of High Level Working Group headed by Dr. K.Kasturirangan will be binding on the State Government and the User Agency. They will implement all mitigative measures suggested by the group for such type of developmental projects.

2. Penal Compensatory Afforestation will be done by the State Government over degraded forest land equal in extent to diverted forest land in addition to Compensatory Afforestation at the cost of the User Agency.

3. A cumulative impact assessment of all drinking water projects in the region on the flora and fauna of the area will be undertaken by the State Government at the cost of the User Agency and the mitigative measures and other conditions suggested in the study will be binding on the User Agency.

4. The User Agency will abide by all conditions imposed by Regional Office, Bhopal and State Government during inspection of the project. The final approval for diversion of forest land will be considered only after compliance of all above general, standard and additional conditions.

(c ) The construction work related to the project in non-forest land had commenced before approval of the Central Government under Section-2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980for use of forest land for non-forestry purpose. Accordingly, the Hon’ble Court of Bombay in PIL No 58 of 2011 directed the Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation and the State Government to stop all construction works till the permission is granted by the Court. As informed by the State Government, the work has been stopped by the Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation (d) to (e) The Kalu Dam Project in Thane district is a drinking water project and does not require Environmental Clearance under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification dated 15th May, 2006. DEVELOPMENT OF YAMUNA RIVER BANK AS ECO-FRIENDLY SITE 7th May, 2013 RSQ *571 DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU:


(a) whether Government is committed to save the Yamuna river bank from garbage dumping; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the National Green Tribunal has issued new directions to the High Powered Committee to

submit a comprehensive proposal to develop Yamuna River Bank into an eco-friendly site, free from pollution; and

(d) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.571 to be answered on Tuesday, the 7th May, 2013 on “Development of Yamuna river bank as eco-friendly site” by Dr. Pradeep Kumar Balmuchu. (a) & (b) An application No. 6/2012 is before Hon’ble National Green Tribunal (NGT) pertaining to removal of debris, solid waste, construction material etc. lying along the banks of River Yamuna. The NGT vide its orders dated 31st January, 2013 and 1st February, 2013 has directed the concerned officials of U.P. Government, Government of NCT of Delhi, Delhi Development Authority and East Delhi Municipal Corporation to take appropriate action for removal of the debris lying along river Yamuna and also take steps to ensure that no further debris is dumped on the banks of the river. NGT has also directed the Municipal Corporations of Delhi, U.P and Delhi Development Authority to identified and notify the sites for dumping of the debris. A Committee headed by Secretary, Ministry of Environment & Forests has been constituted by the orders of NGT to oversee the implementation of its directions. (c) & (d) The National Green Tribunal vide its order dated 21st March 2013 directed the Committee to prepare a plan for development, beautification & upliftment of banks of river Yamuna in Delhi. The Delhi Development Authority has prepared a plan indicating the Master Plan, Zonal Plan and the areas taken up for development in the first phase. COMPREHENSIVE RIVER BASIN MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR GANGA 7th May, 2013 RSQ *574 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether a Comprehensive river basin management plan for Ganga is being prepared; (b) if so, the name of the organisation which has been entrusted with the work; (c) whether the detailed memorandum of understanding has already been signed; (d) whether the plan is being prepared with the objective of taking comprehensive measures for restoration

of the wholesomeness of Ganga river system and improvement of its ecological health; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (e) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 574 to be answered on Tuesday the 7th May, 2013 on ‘Comprehensive river basin management plan for Ganga’ raised by Shri Rama Chandra Khuntia (a) to (c) A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) has been signed on 6.7.2010 by the Ministry of Environment & Forests with a consortium of seven Indian Institutes of Technology for the development of Ganga River Basin Management Plan. (d) & (e) The Plan would identify projects to be undertaken, policy interventions required and non-project investments for restoration of the wholesomeness of Ganga river system and improvement of its ecological health. The Plan would include identification and estimation of present and prospective pollution loads from domestic, industrial and non-point sources, measures for maintaining water quality by providing a road map for control and prevention of pollution into the river and its tributaries, measures necessary for augmentation of river flow, catchment area treatment, public participation & awareness and assessment of technical and financial resources required for a time bound action programme. TARGET FOR INCREASING FOREST COVER 7th May, 2013 RSQ *576 SHRI THAAWAR CHAND GEHLOT: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has made an assessment of continuously declining forest cover in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; (c) whether Government has set any target for increasing the forest cover in the country in the Twelfth

Five year Plan; and (d) if so, the details thereof ?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to part (a) to (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 576 by Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot due for reply on 07.05.2013 (a) Forest Survey of India, Dehradun has been mapping and assessing the country’s forest cover biennially using remote sensing technology. ‘ India State of Forest Report 2011’, (ISFR 2011) is the twelfth one in the series. The report contains state/district wise loss/gain of forest cover. (b) As per India State of Forest Report 2011, 14 States / UTs have shown a decrease in forest cover to the extent of 867 square kilometers. 15 States/UTs have registered an aggregate increase of 500 square kilometers. Effectively there is a net decline of forest cover to the tune of 367 square kilometers in comparison to the forest cover assessment as per India State of Forest Report 2009. The details of States/UTs showing decline in forest cover along with the reasons for decline are given in Annexure I. (c) & (d) Increase in green cover (as measured by satellite imagery) by one million hectare every year has been envisaged as one of the monitorable targets during the 12th Five Year Plan period. Afforestation/Tree plantation targets under Item No.51 A (Area Covered under Public and Forest Lands) and 51 B (No. of Seedlings Planted) of Twenty Point Programme are fixed annually by the Ministry of Environment and Forests for States/UTs. State wise

targets for the years 2010-11, 2011-12 and 2012-13 are given in Annexure II. The afforestation under Twenty Point Programme is taken up cross sectorally under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes such as National Afforestation Programme (NAP), Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) Funds, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), National Bamboo Mission, 13th Finance Commission etc. and also under different State Plans/ Non Plan Schemes.

Annexure I Annexure referred to in reply to part (b) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 576 due for answer on 07-05-2013 regarding ‘Target for increasing forest cover ’ States / UTs showing decline in forest cover as per India State of Forest Report 2011 S.No States/UTs Decline in forest

area (in sq. km) Reasons for decline

1 Andhra Pradesh 281 Management interventions like harvesting of short rotation crops followed by new regeneration / plantations, forest clearance in some encroached areas.

2. Manipur 190 Decrease in forest cover in the State is due to shortening of shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure.


4. Arunachal Pradesh 74 Change in forest cover in the state is because of shifting cultivation and biotic pressure.



7. Kerala 24 Decrease in forest cover in the state is due to rotational felling of Eucalyptus, Teak, Acacia mangium, rubber and shade bearing trees in the gardens.


9. Tripura 8 Decrease in forest cover in the state is due to clearings for rubber plantations and shifting cultivations practices.

10. Maharashtra 4 - 11. Chhattisgarh 4 Submergence of forest areas in catchments of the dams. 12. Uttar Pradesh 3 - 13. Gujarat 1 Decrease in forest cover in the state is due to private felling in the Tree

Outside Forests areas. 14. Chandigarh 0.22 -

Total 866.22

ANNEXURE-II Annexure referred to in reply to part (d) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 576 due for answer on 07-05-2013 regarding ‘Target for increasing forest cover ’ State/UT-wise details of the Afforestation Targets under Point 51 A (area covered under Afforestation activities on public and forest land in hectares) and Point 51 B (number of seedling planted in lakhs) of 20 Point Programme

Sl. No. State/ UT

Point 51 A Area of forest and public land covered under

afforestation activities in (ha.)

Point 51 B Number of Seedlings Planted ( in lakhs)

2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 1 Andhra Pradesh 340000 312000 385400 2210.00 2028.00 2505.10 2 Arunachal Pradesh 10000 6500 10800 65.00 42.25 70.20 3 Assam 12000 9500 5650 78.00 61.75 36.73 4 Bihar 27000 25000 22700 175.50 162.50 147.55 5 Chhattisgarh 60500 78000 50400 385.00 507.00 327.60 6 Goa 550 500 450 7.50 3.25 2.93

Sl. No. State/ UT

Point 51 A Area of forest and public land covered under

afforestation activities in (ha.)

Point 51 B Number of Seedlings Planted ( in lakhs)

2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 7 Gujarat 125000 137500 140500 812.50 893.75 913.25 8 Haryana 25000 24000 57000 162.50 156.00 370.50 9 Himachal Pradesh 24000 20000 28900 156.00 130.00 187.85 10 Jammu and Kashmir 28000 28000 7250 182.00 182.00 47.13 11 Jharkhand 50000 30000 46200 325.00 195.00 300.30 12 Karnataka 100000 100000 67000 650.00 650.00 435.50 13 Kerala 9000 9000 3950 58.50 58.50 25.68 14 Madhya Pradesh 270000 210000 110700 1755.00 1365.00 719.55 15 Maharashtra 175000 180000 122900 1137.50 1170.00 798.85 16 Manipur 10000 10000 18000 65.00 65.00 117.00 17 Meghalaya 3000 2500 6850 19.50 16.25 44.53 18 Mizoram 6000 5500 6250 39.00 35.75 40.63 19 Nagaland 6000 5000 10600 39.00 32.50 68.90 20 Odisha 150000 215000 173300 975.00 1397.50 1126.45 21 Punjab 7000 8000 6950 45.50 52.00 45.18 22 Rajasthan 44000 60000 71300 176.00 300.00 463.45 23 Sikkim 5000 6000 7450 32.50 39.00 48.43 24 Tamil Nadu 93000 118500 50700 284.00 770.25 329.55 25 Tripura 12000 13000 27200 78.00 84.50 176.80 26 Uttarakhand 16000 20000 23000 140.00 130.00 149.50 27 Uttar Pradesh 100000 90000 81700 650.00 585.00 531.05 28 West Bengal 22000 20000 16000 143.00 130.00 104.00 29 A & N Islands 1100 1300 1600 7.15 8.45 10.40 30 Chandigarh 300 300 300 1.95 1.95 1.95 31 D & N Haveli 200 250 250 1.30 1.63 1.63 32 Daman & Diu 30 30 15 0.20 0.20 0.10 33 Delhi 100 105 1150 0.65 0.68 7.48 34 Lakshadweep 20 20 20 0.13 0.13 0.13 35 Puducherry 50 75 35 0.33 0.49 0.23

Total 1731850 1745580 1562470 10858.20 11256.28 10156.06 REVIEW OF NATIONAL ACTION PLAN ON CLIMATE CHANGE 7th May, 2013 RSQ *580 SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has carried out any monitoring or review of the implementation of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) that was released in 2008 by the Prime Minister;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; and (d) the status of implementation of the NAPCC’s recommendation in the States for targeting a Renewable

Energy Procurement Obligation (RPO) of 15 per cent by 2020? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to Part (a) to (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 580 by Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy regarding “Review of National Action Plan on Climate Change”

(a) to (c) Government regularly reviews the progress under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), based on the information provided by the concerned nodal Ministry. An ‘Executive Committee on Climate Change’ has been set up in January, 2013 under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary to Prime Minister to monitor and review the implementation of the Missions and other initiatives under the NAPCC. (d) Renewable Energy Procurement Obligation (RPO) has been the major driving force in India to promote the renewable energy sector. However, the NAPCC has not set any target for RPO. The Mission Document on Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission has indicated that RPO is the key driver for promoting solar power. Further, the National Tariff Policy (NTP) 2006 was amended in 2011 to prescribe that solar-specific RPO be increased from a minimum of 0.25% in 2012 to 3% in 2022. NAPCC also suggests that starting 2009-10, the national renewable energy standard may be set at 5 % of total purchase of grid electricity and to increase by 1% each year for the next 10 years. As per the Central Electricity Authority’s estimates the share of rentable power in total electricity mix in 2011-12 and during the period April-August 2012 was 5.52% and 7% respectively, which was broadly in line with the suggestions for the share of renewable power in the electricity mix made in NAPCC. GUIDELINES FOR HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS IN MAHARASHTRA 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4341 SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on 27 April, 2012 has requested the Ministry to cancel the Office Memorandum of the Ministry dated 7 February, 2012 regarding guidelines of high-rise buildings, which stipulates restriction on heights of buildings abating on road which is less than 30 metres;

(b) whether the Ministry is aware that in Mumbai there are very few roads having width of 30 metres and this creates an adverse impact on housing sector of Mumbai;

(c) whether the Ministry is considering to cancel the said office memorandum; (d) if so, the time-frame for cancelling the memorandum; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. A communication was received from Chief Minister of Maharashtra regarding Office Memorandum of the Ministry dated 7 February, 2012. The said Office Memorandum was issued by the Ministry on the recommendation of the Expert Appraisal Committee for Infrastructure, Miscellaneous Projects and Coastal Zone Regulation linking the height of building with the width of the road on which the proposed building is to be located, distance of Fire Station from the building so that in case of emergency the fire tender may reach in the shortest possible time, requirement of mandatory mock-up drills and obtaining NOC from fire department and other concerned departments. (c) to (e) This Ministry has constituted a Committee under the chairmanship of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Member, Planning Commission to review the provisions of EIA Notification 2006, relating to grant of environmental clearances for Roads, Building and SEZ projects and the provisions under the Office Memorandum dated 7th February, 2012 related to ‘Guidelines on High Rise Buildings’. The Committee has submitted its report and the same is under consideration in the Ministry.

BAN ON POLYTHENE BAGS 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4342 SHRI ASHK ALI TAK: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that inspite of ban, polythene bags are in use in the market; (b) if so, whether Government has made any strategy or contemplating the same to stop this; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c): The Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified the Plastic Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011. As per these rules, manufacturing, stocking, distribution, sale on use of plastic carry bags of less than 40 micron in thickness is prohibited. These rules are uniformly applicable to the whole of the country. However, some States/ Union Territories have prescribed more stringent norms and also either completely or partially banned the use of plastic carry bags within their respective jurisdictions. The State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Committees in respect of Union Territories are the prescribed authorities for enforcement of provisions of these rules relating to registration, manufacture and recycling. The concerned Municipal Authorities are responsible for enforcement of provisions of these rules relating to the use, collection, segregation, transportation and disposal of plastic waste. As per the information received from the Central Pollution Control Board and some State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees of Union Territories, the plastic carry bags are still in use. Inspections are carried out by these agencies as per their jurisdiction to check compliance to these rules. In case of violations, necessary action is taken by the concerned agencies. GANGA ACTION PLAN PHASE-II 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4343 SHRI DHIRAJ PRASAD SAHU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has reviewed the progress made in the cleaning of Ganga river in the country; (b) if so, the details of the outcome thereof including the expenditure incurred so far; (c) the percentage of pollution load of the river Ganga tackled so far under Ganga Action Plan Phase-I; (d) the details of action plan made by Government to control pollution under Ganga Action Plan Phase-II;

and (e) whether there is any shortage of funds which make hindrance in achieving the target of this plan?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) Ganga Action Plan (GAP) Phase-I was launched in 1985 to improve the water quality of river Ganga. Later, GAP Phase-II was initiated in 1993. Various pollution abatement schemes including interception & diversion of sewage and setting up of sewage treatment plants were taken up under the Plan.

As reported by Central Pollution Control Board, nearly 2723 million litres per day (mld) of sewage is generated from Class I cities and Class II towns along river Ganga. Under the GAP, a sewage treatment capacity of 1092 mld (GAP-I: 869 mld, GAP-II: 223 mld) has been created. The total expenditure incurred so far, on conservation of river Ganga is Rs.950.32 crore. A National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) was constituted in February 2009, as an empowered, planning, financing, monitoring and coordinating authority with the objective to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic river basin approach. The river conservation strategy was reviewed in the first meeting of the NGRBA held on 5th October 2009 which resolved that under ‘Mission Clean Ganga’, no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluent may flow into Ganga by the year 2020. Under NGRBA, 53 projects amounting to nearly Rs.2600 crore have been sanctioned for pollution abatement schemes in the States of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. An expenditure of Rs.583.28 crore has been incurred till March 2013, and 8 projects have been completed so far. (e) Besides Central funds, a World Bank assistance of Rs.7000 crore has been approved for a period of 8 years for conservation of river Ganga. REPORT OF KASTURI RANGAN COMMITTEE ON WESTERN GHATS 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4345 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) (a) whether Kasturi Rangan Committee on Western Ghats Ecology has submitted its report; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) (c) whether Government has some action plan to implement the suggestions of the Committee; and (d) if so, the details thereof ?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) The major findings of the High Level Working Group inter alia include: (i) distinguishing cultural and the natural landscape of the Western Ghats region, (ii) protecting 90 per cent of the ‘natural landscape’ as ecological sensitive area in Western Ghats region, (iii) prohibiting activities with maximum interventionist and destructive impact on the environm ent, (iv) incentivizing green growth in the Western Ghats, and (v) setting up a Decision Support and Monitoring Centre for Western Ghats. (c) & (d) The Ministry has uploaded the report on the Ministry’s website for wider dissemination and use and also sought comments from stakeholders by 20th May 2013. The report has been sent to the State Governments of Western Ghats region for their considered comments/views. MEETING OF ENVIRONMENT MINISTERS OF BRICS COUNTRIES 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4346

SHRI NAND KUMAR SAI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether a meeting of Environment Ministers of Brazil, South Africa, India and China BRICS countries was held in the past;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the names of countries other than members of BRICS countries invited for the meeting;

(c) the details of agenda discussed during the Conference; (d) whether future plan for taking the global process for agreement under Durban Platform has also

finalised during the meeting; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A meeting of the Environment Ministeris Brazil, South Africa, India and China (BASIC) Environment Ministers was held on February 16, 2013 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Apart from BASIC countries, invitations were also extended to Qatar as President of Conference of Parties (COP) Presidency, Fiji, as incoming Chair of Group 77 & China, Nauru as chair of Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) group, Nepal as Chair of Least Developed Countries (LDC) group, Mali as an African LDC country, Bhutan as a neighbouring LDC country and Argentina as a like-minded country. (c) During the meeting, Environment Ministers discussed the outcomes of Doha Climate Change Conference held in November-December, 2013, further work under the Ad-hoc Working Group on Durban Platform for Enhanced Action and further work under the Subsidiary Bodies, Conference of Parties (COP) and Conference of Parties serving as Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto protocol (CMP). (d) and (e) During the meeting, Ministers reaffirmed that the objective of Durban Platform is to enhance efforts of all parties by further strengthening the multilateral rules-based climate regime and ensuring the full, effective and sustained implementation of the Convention after 2020. It was also stressed that the pre-2020 ambition should primarily be addressed in the context of actions of parties under the second commitment period of Kyoto Protocol and the agreed outcome pursuant to Bali Action Plan and in accordance with the principles and provisions of the Convention. KILLING OF RHINOES IN KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK 7thMay, 2013 RSQ 4347 SHRI BHUBANESWAR KALITA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Rhino killings in Kaziranga National Park in Assam had increased in spite of increased security;

(b) whether it is also a fact that Unmanned Ariel Vehicles have been deployed to monitor the movements of the animals and poachers in the park;

(c) whether the investigations into the Rhino killings have been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation; and

(d) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) Details of rhinoceros poaching in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, as reported by the State, are at Annexure-I. (b) A pilot initiative, has been taken for use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle towards surveillance in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve. (c) & (d) The State was advised by the Government of India for a CBI investigation in this regard. As requested by the State and subsequent notification by the Government of India, three separate regular cases relating to poaching of rhinos in the Districts of Karbi-Anglong and Nagaon of Assam have been registered in the CBI. Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4347 ON KILLING OF RHINOES IN KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK DUE FOR REPLY ON 07.05.2013. Details of rhinoceros poaching in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve during the last three years and current year, as reported by the State Sl. No. Name of Tiger Reserve, State 2010 2011 2012 2013

(as on 16.4.2013) 1. Kaziranga, Assam 5 3 11 10 ILLEGAL TRADE OF LEOPARD BODY PARTS 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4348 SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of the revelations made during August, 2012 by Shri Divyabhanusinh Chavda, Member of National Board for Wildlife and Chairman of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) India, that leopards’ number may decline rapidly like that of tigers if an holistic strategy is not adopted to tackle illegal trade of wildlife; and

(b) if so, whether the special and deterrent measures will be adopted in areas like Uttarakhand which has emerged as a major source of leopards’ body parts, and similarly Delhi which is becoming an epicentre of illegal trade for 90 per cent of leopards’ skin being eventually traded to Myanmar, Loas, Vietnam, Cambodia, etc?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) Yes, Sir. Several deterrent and special measures are in place to prevent killing of leopards and illegal trade of its parts and products. The details are as below:

i. The Leopard is listed in the Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, thereby providing it the highest protect under the law.

ii. The hunting of Schedule I animals including leopard attracts severest penalty of minimum three to a maximum of seven year term and fine uptoRs. 10000/-. The offences related to wildlife articles related to schedule I animals attract the same penalty. The above Act also provides for satisfaction of strict conditions before grant of bail to a person charged of above offences. It also provides for forfeiture of property acquired through illegal hunting and trade of wild life and its products.

iii. The Central Government has established a Tiger and other EndangeredSpecies Crime Control Bureau, known as the Wildlife Crime ControlBureau.

iv. India has a bilateral understanding with Nepal on controlling trans-boundary illegal trade in wildlife and conservation, apart from a protocol on tiger conservation with China.

v. A sub-group on tiger and leopard conservation has been constituted for cooperation with the Russian Federation.

vi. The Government has taken the following measures to prevent killing of leopards and illegal trade of its part and products through the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau:

a) Collection of intelligence on wildlife criminals involved in leopard poaching and disseminates the same to the enforcement agencies concerned for apprehension of criminals. b) Coordination of inter-agency enforcement efforts to tackle wildlife crime including illegal trade in parts of Asian big cats. c) Capacity building programmes for wildlife crime enforcement agencies in detection and investigation of wildlife offences. d) Awareness campaigns and sensitization programmes on wildlife crime to various stake holders. e) The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has alsopublished a manual on X-Ray images of wildlife species in trade and a handbook on wildlife crime investigation to busedfor the capacity building of the officials of the agencies concernedand in detection and identification of wildlife articles and scientific investigation of offences. PRIVILEGES OF TRIBALS UNDER FOREST RIGHTS ACT 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4349 SHRI A.V. SWAMY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that the tribals and other traditional dwellers living in about 600 forest villages in Odisha have been denied the privileges under Forest Land Rights Act as well as normal rural development activities and are being treated as encroachers of the land in which they have been living for centuries;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the details of the measures taken or proposed to be taken by Government to recognise them as

revenue villages and give their entitlement? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) As per the information received from the Government of Odisha, there are 20 forest villages under the administrative control of 7 forest divisions in 5 districts in Odisha. Further, no case of denial of forest rights under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 has come to the notice. Section 3 (1) (h) of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 recognises rights of settlement and conversion of all forest villages, old habitation, unsurveyed villages and other villages in forests, whether recorded, notified or not into revenue villages. As per information available a total 3,13,242 titles of individual forest rights have been distributed in Odisha covering an area of 5,00,009.42 acres. Various measures for development of these villages include plantation of NTFP, bamboo and other medicinal species; construction of amenities such as intra-village roads, school buildings, water harvesting structures, wells, irrigation canals, check dam, retaining wall, sprinkler PVC pipe; providing other livelihood support activities like Goatary, honey box, horticulture plantation, sewing machine; organizing health camp for health and hygiene of the village dwellers, exposure visit and awareness campaign.

GENERIC ENGINEERING APPRAISAL COMMITTEE 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4350 SHRI B.S. GNANADESIKAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has decided to re-constitute the Generic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) to proceed the trial process since more than 50 applications relating to new crop biotech products are pending assessment and approval by the regulator; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by Government in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & ( b) The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) has been reconstituted on 11.3.2013 by the Ministry of Environment and Forests in accordance with the provisions of 'Rules for Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms/Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells 1989' of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 on completion of its three year tenure. Mandate of the GEAC is not specific to crop biotechnology but includes proposals relating to activities involving large scale use of hazardous microorganisms and recom¬binants in research and industrial production as well as proposals relating to release of genetically engineered organisms and products into the environment including experimen¬tal field trials of GM crops. The first meeting of the reconstituted GEAC was held on March 22, 2013. GENERATION OF PLASTIC WASTE 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4351 SHRI MOTI LAL VORA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that according to a survey conducted by Government in 60 big cities only 9205 tonne of plastic waste is being recycled out of around 15342.46 tonnes of plastic waste generated every day in the country and the rest 6137 tonnes of plastic waste left scattered here and there;

(b) whether it is also a fact that scattered plastic waste is more harmful for the health of people; (c) the measures being taken by Government to prevent diffusion of plastic waste and control its

generation; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has carried out a study through Central Institute of Plastics Engineering and Technology (CIPET), Ahmadabad on “Assessment and Quantification of Plastic Waste in 60 Cities” during the year 2010-11. As per this study, the total quantum of plastic waste generated in the country is estimated to be about 15,342.46 tonnes per day. The total plastic waste, which is collected and recycled in the

country, is estimated to be about 9205 tonnes per day and about 6137 tonnes per day of plastic waste remains uncollected. The problems, which are associated, inter-alia, with the uncollected plastic waste, include (i) choking of drains by plastic carry bags which may lead to unhygienic environment and water borne diseases, (ii) causing of illness and possible death of animals that may feed on plastics from garbage bins, (iii) non-biodegradable and impervious nature of plastics disposed on soil which may arrest recharge of ground water aquifers, (iv) presence of additives and plasticizers, fillers, flame retardants and pigments used in the plastic products which have potential to cause adverse health impact and ground water pollution. (c) & (d): The Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified the Plastic (Waste Management and Handling) Rules, 2011. These rules, inter-alia, specify that plastic carry bags should have a minimum thickness of 40 microns; food stuffs cannot be packed in recycled plastics or compostable plastics; no carry bags shall be made available free of cost to consumers; and plastic material, in any form shall not be used in any package for packing gutkha, pan masala and tobacco in all forms. The mechanism for plastic waste management has been prescribed in these rules. The State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Committees in respect of Union Territories are the prescribed authorities for enforcement of provisions of these rules relating to registration, manufacture and recycling. The concerned Municipal Authorities are responsible for enforcement of provisions of these rules relating to the use, collection, segregation, transportation and disposal of plastic waste UID NUMBER TO BENGAL TIGERS 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4352 SHRI VIVEK GUPTA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Royal Bengal Tigers would also be covered under the scheme of alloting Unique Identification (UID) numbers to tigers in reserve forests in the country;

(b) if so, the plan of action decided upon by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for implementing the programme; and

(c) the status and details of implementation of the programme, State-wise? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b) & (c) Initiative has been taken for creating a National Repository of Camera Trap Photographs of Tigers, which, interalia, includes assigning unique ID numbers to each tiger captured through camera traps. A protocol, in this regard, has been issued. DIPOSAL OF TREATED EFFLUENTS BY DISTILLERIES 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4353 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether many distilleries in India are not following the norms for disposal of treated effluents thereby causing extreme harm to the flora and fauna in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof and the response of Government thereto, State-wise; (c) the steps taken by Government during the last two years and the current year against such polluting distilleries; (d) whether Government is aware of the corrupt practices involved at various stages of granting and renewing licences to such distilleries by State Pollution Control Boards as well as Central Pollution Control Board; and (e) if so, the details thereof and the action taken in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) As reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), there are 339 distilleries in 26 States / Union Territories (UTs). This exclude 8 States / (UTs) of Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Chandigarh, Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep. Out of the 339 distilleries, 20 distilleries are not in operation. Of the remaining 319 distilleries, 250 distilleries have taken measures to achieve zero discharge of spent wash. Remaining 69 distilleries are at various stages of achieving zero discharge. The State-wise status is given at Annexure-I. The CPCB conducted surprise inspections of 30 distilleries. Based on the inspection, directions were issued to four units under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and one direction was issued under Section 18(1) (b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 to the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB). The details are given at Annexure-II. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has not received any complaint regarding corrupt practices involved in granting or renewing of licences to such distilleries by SPCBs/CPCB. ANNEXURE- I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (E) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 4353 DUE FOR REPLY ON 7.05.2013 REGARDING DIPOSAL OF TREATED EFFLUENTS BY DISTILLERIES RAISED BY SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Status of distillery based on information received from State Pollution Control Boards /Pollution Control Committees

S. No. State/ UT No. of

Distilleries

Operational Status/pollution control measures Distilleries with Zero discharge

Distilleries without Zero discharge

Distilleries Closed

Mode of Zero discharge

1 Andhra Pradesh 19 18 01 00 Reverse Osmosis (RO)/Multiple Effective Evaporator (MEE), composting

2 Assam 0 3 Bihar 05 05 00 00 Composting, irrigation 4 Chhattisgarh 03 -- -- -- --- 5 Goa 02 00 02 00 --- 6 Gujarat 10 09 01 00 Composting, irrigation 7 Haryana 08 08 00 00 MEE, composting 8 Himachal Pradesh 03 01 02 00 --- 9 Jammu & Kashmir 06 -- -- -- ---

10 Karnataka 38 37 01 00 11 Kerala 0 12 Madhya Pradesh 8 7 1 13 Maharashtra 107 77 24 06 As per Corporate

Responsibility fro Environment Protection (CREP)

14 Nagaland 0 15 Orissa 04 04 00 00 --- 16 Punjab 13 06 07 00 --- 17 Rajasthan 10 09 00 01 MEE, RO, composting 18 Sikkim 01 -- -- -- --- 19 Tamil Nadu 26 12 10 04 Composting,

incineration 20 Tripura 0

21 Uttar Pradesh 68 53 06 09 Composting, RO, MEE, Incineration, irrigation

22 Uttarakhand 03 03 00 00 Concentration, composting

23 West Bengal 01 01 00 00 --- 24 Daman Diu Dadra Nagar

Haveli 04 -- -- -- ---

25 Delhi 0 26 Puducherry 0

Total 339 250 55 20 Note: SPCBs/PCCs-State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees

Zero discharge- Zero discharge of spent wash in inland surface water RO-Reverse osmosis, MEE-Multiple effect evaporation, CREP-Corporate responsibly for environment protection ANNEXURE- II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (E) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 4353 DUE FOR REPLY ON 7.05.2013 REGARDING DIPOSAL OF TREATED EFFLUENTS BY DISTILLERIES RAISED BY SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Details of action taken in respect of surprise inspections

No of distilleries/Surprise Inspections Status / action taken 04 Direction issued under section 5 of the Environment (Protection ) Act, 1986 to the Units 01 Direction issued under section 18(1)(b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution )

Act, 1974 issued to the State Pollution Control Board 02 Letters issued to the concerned State Pollution Control Board/Pollution Control Committee

for action. 01 Letter issued to the Unit for ensuring compliance 01 Letter issued to the concerned CPCB Zonal Office for further information 04 Closed 11 Units were found not in operation during the surprise inspection 03 Case under consideration 02 Complying / no action 01 Case under the 3-Member Committee constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India

DISCHARGE OF SEWAGE IN GANGA RIVER IN UTTAR PRADESH 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4354 SHRI KAPTAN SINGH SOLANKI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of cases registered by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) against the units especially in Uttar Pradesh which discharge liquid sewage in river Ganga during the last three years, unit-wise;

(b) the total number of units which have been issued closure notices by the CPCB, so far; and (c) the total number of units which have not stopped their operations so far despite having been issued

closure notice? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) As reported by Central Pollution Control Board, a total of 364 Grossly Polluting Industries discharging their effluents directly or indirectly in the river Ganga, were inspected in Uttar Pradesh. Out of these, 136 industries were found to be non complying with the prescribed norms. These include 6 units of pulp & paper, 20 distilleries, 4

sugar, 102 tanneries and 4 units engaged in dyeing, chemical and food & dairy. Closure directions have been issued to 37 industries under section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. EXEMPTION OF CRZ RULES IN COCHIN 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4355 SHRI P. RAJEEVE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) (a) whether the Ministry had exempted Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Rules for any construction work in Cochin; and.

(b) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Ministry of Environment and Forests had not exempted any construction project in Kochi, formerly called Cochin, from the purview of Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991/2011. (b) Does not arise in view of the reply to part (a) above. MEASURES FOR CONTROLLING DISCHARGE OF INDUSTRIAL WASTE IN RIVER GANGA 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4356 DR. RAM PRAKASH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of industries located on the banks of Ganga discharging their industrial waste into the river, State-wise;

(b) whether Government would consider to erect separate drain along the Ganga for discharging the industrial waste and sewerage from villages/towns instead of discharging it into Ganga;

(c) if so, by when the action will be initiated in this regard; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has identified 764 Grossly Polluting Industries which includes 687 in Uttar Pradesh, 42 in Uttarakhand, 13 in Bihar and 22 in West Bengal on the main stem of river Ganga and its tributaries Kali and Ramganga. (b) to (d) There is no proposal with the Government to construct a separate drain along the river Ganga for tackling the pollution load. However, under the National Ganga River Basin Programme, various pollution abatement activities have been undertaken for addressing the domestic pollution through 53 projects in 43 towns in Ganga States. These projects have been approved at a total cost of Rs. 2600 crore on a cost sharing basis between Central &

concerned State Governments. Out of this, Rs. 840.16 crore have been released and an expenditure of Rs. 583.28 crore incurred till March 2013. To control the industrial pollution, action is taken against non-complying industries under the provisions of the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. ENCROACHMENT OF FOREST LAND 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4357 DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that forest rights are being violated and land alloted to tribal people is also being encroached and used as cultivated land;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; (c) whether it is the result of sloppy implementation of Forest Rights Act; and (d) the measures being taken by Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) The administrative control of forests rests with the concerned State/UT Governments. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has not received any specific report on violation of forest rights and encroachment on land allotted to tribals for cultivation. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the nodal ministry for the implementation of Forest Rights Act, 2006. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has notified the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Rules, 2007 on 1.1.2008 and the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Amendment Rules, 2012 on 6.9.2012. Guidelines for implementation of the Act have also been issued by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs on 12.07.2012. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has written to all States and U.T. Governments for effective implementation of the Act including the recent communication dated 12.4.2013. As per the available information, 32,45,369 of 27,95,668 claims have been disposed of (86.14%) as on 31.03.2013. A total of 12,81,926 titles have been distributed. AWARDS FOR PROTECTION OF FORESTS 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4358 SMT VASANTHI STANLEY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry proposes to give awards to those who protects the forests; (b) the details of awards presently given for this purpose; and (c) whether the Ministry encourages the NGOs for this Mission?

MINISTER OF STATE (INEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) to (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has instituted the Indira Priyadarshini Vriksha Mitra (IPVM) Awards in 1986 to recognize the pioneering and innovative contribution made by individuals and institutions in the field of afforestation/wasteland development. Under IPVM Awards, cash prize of Rs.2.5 lakhs along with medallion and citation, is awarded every year in seven categories including the category of NGOs. CONSTITUTION OF FOREST ADVISORY COMMITTEE 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4359 DR. CHANDAN MITRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the new Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has not been constituted while the term of previous panel expired on 28 May, 2012;

(b) if so, the reasons for delay in constitution of the new FAC; (c) the details of projects awaiting clearance in the absence of FAC; and (d) the immediate steps taken by Government for constitution of FAC?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) After expiry of the term of the previous Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) on 28th May 2012, the Central Government constituted a new FAC on 3rd August 2012. (b) to (d) In view of reply to part (a) above, reply to parts (b) to (d) does not arise. LIFTING OF BAN ON INDUSTRIES IN KONKAN REGION 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4360 DR. YOGENDRA P. TRIVEDI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) (a) whether the State Government of Maharashtra has sent a proposal to the Central Government to lift ban from mining industries and starting and developing new industries in the Konkan region of Maharashtra as per the recommendations of Dr. Gadgil Committee; and

(b) if so, by when and the present status thereof ? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Government of Maharashtra has provided detailed comments on the various recommendations contained in the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) report which inter alia include comments on ban on mining and industries in the proposed ESZ areas of Western Ghats. The Government of Maharashtra has expressed its reservations on ban on mining and restriction of new industries in ESZ areas as recommended by WGEEP.

The Ministry had constituted a High Level Working Group (HLWG) under the Chairmanship of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Member, Planning Commission to inter alia examine the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel Report in a holistic and multidisciplinary fashion keeping in view the comments received from the concerned State Governments/Central Ministries/Stakeholders. The HLWG has submitted its report to the Ministry. The Ministry has uploaded the report on it’s website for wider dissemination and use and also sought comments from stakeholders by 20th May 2013. The report has been sent to the State Governments of Western Ghats region including Government of Maharashtra for their considered comments/views. CLEANING OF POLLUTED RIVERS IN KARNATAKA 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4361 SHRI RAJEEV CHANDRASEKHAR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the rivers in Karnataka which are marked as 'Polluted River' by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB);

(b) whether Government provides grants for cleaning up of these rivers; and (c) if so, the details of grants provided to Karnataka for the purpose during last three years?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Certain stretches of rivers Bhadra, Tunga, Tungabhadra, Laxmantirtha, Kali, Krishna, Hundri, Kundu, Arkavati, and Malprabha in Karnataka have been designated as ‘Polluted River Stretches’ by the Central Pollution Control Board. (b) & (c) This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in abatement of pollution in rivers under the National River Conservation Plan by providing assistance for works relating to sewerage and sewage treatment plants, low cost sanitation, river front development, crematoria etc. The projects are implemented on a 70:30 cost sharing basis between the Central and State Governments. During the last three years, an amount of Rs.0.96 crore has been released to Karnataka under the Plan. CONVICTION RATE OF WILDLIFE CASES IN ASSAM 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4362 SHRI BHUBANESWAR KALITA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the rate of conviction for wildlife cases in Assam; and (b) the total number of poachers arrested and the total quantum of punishment meted out in the last 3

years? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) & (b) The detection of offences under Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and apprehension and prosecution of offenders involved in such offences in the States/Union Territories is done by the concerned State/Union Territory Government including Assam. The details of such cases are not collated in the Ministry of Environment and Forests. COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES AROUND JIM CORBETT NATIONAL PARK 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4363 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that the increase in commercial activities around Jim Corbett National Park situated in Uttarakhand has adversely affected the movement of wild animals;

(b) if so, the details of concrete steps taken by the Ministry in the matter; (c) whether the Ministry would consider to shift the commercial institutions set up around ten kilometre

from the boundary of Jim Corbett National Park elsewhere; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b), (c) & (d) As per the “Comprehensive Guidelines for Tiger Conservation and Tourism” issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority under section 38O (1)(c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, construction of resorts is allowed outside the core/critical tiger habitat, with due permission / clearance from the competent authority. The State Governments are mandated to take action against illegal construction, if any. POLLUTION CONTROLLING SYSTEMS IN POWER PLANTS 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4364 SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether various public sector power plants are polluting the environment; (b) if so, the names of such plants where pollution controlling systems have been installed and the amount

spent thereon, State-wise; (c) the names of the plants where the pollution controlling systems are yet to be installed, State-wise; and (d) by when the work for installing it in the remaining power plants is likely to be completed, State-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) As informed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), there are 84 Public Sector Undertaking Power Plants in the country. All these Power Plants have provided Air and Water Pollution Control Systems. However, 22 Power Plants have electrostatic precipitators which need improvement for complying with emission norms as given at Annexure-I and 11 Power Plants do not comply with the effluent standards as given at Annexure-II. As reported, the CPCB does not have any information on funds utilized / spent on installing these pollution control Systems.

ANNEXURE- I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (D) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 4364 DUE FOR REPLY ON 7.05.2013 REGARDING POLLUTION CONTROLLING SYSTEMS IN POWER PLANTS RAISED BY SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL: List of the power plants (Public Sector Undertakings) which have Electrostatic Precipitators (ESPs) and need improvement in ESPs for complying of emission limit Sl. No.

Name of Thermal Power Plant

State Action taken/Plan

1. Kothagudem, APGENCO

Andhra Pradesh ESP in unit 2 is under commissioning. Erection work completed.

2. Ramagundam –B, APGENCO

Andhra Pradesh Necessary augmentation in ESPs will be taken up along with Repair and Maintenance (R&M). Bank Guarantee of Rs. 5.0 lakhs have been submitted to Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board.

3. Patratu, Jh SEB Jharkhand Plant was inspected under ESS. Directions U/s 18(1)(b) of Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 has been issued to State Board to directing the Plant to submit the plan for complying with environmental standards.

4 Barauni, BSEB Bihar Plant was inspected under ESS programme. BTPS was asked improve the performance of ESPs in time bound manner. Latest status is awaited from BPCB. However, ESPs are under augmentation R&M plan of 11th Plan.

5. Bokaro-B, DVC Jharkhand ESPs have been augmented. Test results submitted. Jharkhand Pollution Control Board has been asked to verify the compliance.

6. Sikka, GSEGCL Gujarat Improvement in the performance of ESP is to be taken up the Gujarat Electricity Board (GEB). Gujarat Pollution Control Board has been asked to issue direction for taking measures in time bound manner

7. Kutch Lignite, NLC Gujarat Plant was inspected under Environment Surveillance Squad Programme (ESS), Directions U/s 18(1)(b) of Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981has been issued to State Board to directing the Plant to submit the plan for complying with environmental standards.

8. Korba (East), CH SECL

Chhattisgarh Plant was inspected under ESS programme ,Directions U/s 5 of Environment (Protection ) Act, 1986 have been issued to the Plant to submit the plan for complying with environmental standards

9. Panipat, HPGCL Haryana Plant was inspected under ESS programme. Panipat Thermal Power Station (PTPS) was asked improve the performance of ESPs in time bound manner. Latest status is awaited from Haryana Pollution Control Board.

10. Satpura, MPPGCL Madhya Pradesh Status of the plant was verified. A meeting with Madhya Pradesh Electricity Board (MPEB) and Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board (MPSPCB) was convened by the Zonal Office CPCB. Action will be taken by the MPEB to ensure the compliance with the standards.

11. Nasik , MAHAGENCO

Maharashtra Plant was inspected under ESS programme. NTPS was asked improve theperformance of ESPs in time bound manner.

12. Koradi, MAHAGENCO

Maharashtra Plant was inspected under ESS programme. KTPS was asked improve the performance of ESPs in time bound manner.

13. Chandrapur, MAHAGENCO

Maharashtra Besides, Retrofitting of ESPs and installation of Microprocessor based controls, CTPS has adopted ammonia gas conditioning for meeting the emission limit. Ash water recycling system provided. MPCB has issued notice under section 33A of Air ( Control of Pollution)Act 1981.

14. Parli, MAHAGENCO Maharashtra Mahagenco has proposed augmentation of ESPs and installation of Bag filter. Ash pond water recycling system has been provided in unit nos. 1,2,3&4 .

15. Paras, MAHAGENCO Maharashtra Plant was inspected under ESS programme. Directions under Section 18(1)(b) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 were issued to SPCB for directing to M/s Paras Thermal Power Station of MAHGENCO under section 31A of the Air Act, 1981 to augment the ESPs installed in both the units in time bound manner

16. Obra, UPRVUNL Uttar Pradesh

Plant was inspected under ESS programme Directions under section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 issued for stopping the operation of plant A and submit the plan for plant B to comply with emission & Effluent standards.

17. Harduaganj, UPRVUNL

Uttar Pradesh

Existing old units will be phased out after commissioning of proposed new units likely by end of 2013.

18. Parichha,UPRVUNL Uttar Pradesh

Plant was inspected under ESS programme. Directions under section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 have been issued to State Board to direct the Plant to submit the action plan for complying with environmental standards.

19. Durgapur Projects Ltd. Uttar Pradesh

Directions U/s 18(1)(b) of Air & Water Acts, 1981 & 1974 have been issued to State Board to direct the Plant to submit the action plan for complying with environmental standards.

20. Bandel, WBPDCL Uttar Pradesh Flue gas conditioning is being done in unit 5. ESPs in unit nos1-4 have been

retrofitted with higher SCA. Further improvement in performance of ESPs is not viable as plant is 40 years old. Considering the non viability of the plant, WBPDCL has sought time to decide on phasing out of these units. Bank Guarantee of Rs. 5.0 lakhs has been imposed.

21. Kolaghat, WBPDCL Uttar Pradesh

Plant was inspected under ESS programme Directions under section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 issued. As per action plan ESPs will retrofitted by the year 2016.

22. Mettur, TNEB Tamil Nadu Proposal to augment the ESPs is under consideration. Meanwhile possibility is being explored to minimise the emission by using FGC system.

ANNEXURE- II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (D) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 4364 DUE FOR REPLY ON 7.05.2013 REGARDING POLLUTION CONTROLLING SYSTEMS IN POWER PLANTS RAISED BY SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL: List of the power plants (Public Sector Undertakings) which do not comply with effluent standards (w.r.t ash pond effluent ) Sr. No.

Thermal Power Plant State Action Plan

1 Patratu Jharkhand Plant was inspected under ESS programme , Directions U/s 18(1)(b) of Water Act, 1974 has been issued to State Board directing the Plant to submit the plan for complying with environmental standards.

2 Barauni Bihar Plant was inspected under ESS programme. BTPS was asked improve capacity of ash pond to meet the limit of ash pond effluent

3 Bokaro-B, DVC Jharkhand Directions U/s 5 of EPA, 1986 to augment ash pond capacity. Jharkhand Pollution control Board was asked verify the status .

4. Kutch Lignite Gujarat Based on the recommendations of inspecting team Directions U/s 18(1)(b) of Air Act, 1981 has been issued to State Board to directing the Plant to submit the plan for complying with environmental standards.

5. Gandhinagar Gujarat Plant was inspected under ESS programme. GTPS was asked improve the settling capacity to meet the effluent standards in time bound manner.

6. Korba (East) Chhattisgarh Plant was inspected under ESS programme. Directions under section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 issued to submit the plan for complying with environmental standards

7. Obra , UVUNL Uttar Pradesh Plant was inspected under ESS programme Directions under section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 issued for stopping the operation of plant A and submit the plan for plant B to comply with emission & Effluent standards.

8. Anapara, UVUNL Uttar Pradesh Plant was inspected under ESS programme. Directions under section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 issued for providing ash pond effluent recycling system.

9. Parichha, UVUNL Uttar Pradesh Plant was inspected under ESS programme. Directions U/s 18(1)(b) of Air & Water Acts, 1981 & 1974 have been issued to State Board to direct the Plant to submit the action plan for complying with environmental standards. by September 2009.

10. DPL West Bengal Directions U/s 18(1)(b) of Air & Water Acts, 1981 & 1974 have been issued to State Board to direct the Plant to submit the action plan for complying with environmental standards.

11. Bandel West Bengal BTPS has been asked to augment the ash pond capacity for improving the settling capcaity.

FOREST COVER IN INDIA 7th May, 2013 RSQ 4365 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the total area of forest cover in India as on 2013 and the forest cover area at the time of 1947; (b) the total forest cover area lost till today due to industrialisation, infrastructure development, roads, rail

line, housing, urbanisation;

(c) whether alternate forest cover areas have been created through plantation afforestation community forest, village forest;

(d) whether satellite measurement of forest cover area could have covered sugar cane, wheat, paddy fields, even raised grass lawns which are not real forest; and

(e) if so, how to delimit and get the real forest cover area? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) As per India State of Forest Report, 2011, the forest cover of India is 6,92,027 Km2. The details of forest cover, state-wise are given in Annexure-1. The details of forest cover of India in year 1947 and 2013 are not available. (b) & (C) The Central Government, as on 31.03.2013, accorded 23,367 approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 11,57,468 hectares of forest land for non-forest purpose. To mitigate impacts of diversion of forest land on the ecology, environment, biodiversity and overall forest cover in the country, the Central Government while according approvals under the Forest (conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land stipulates appropriate conditions. Important among these are transfer and mutation of equivalent non-forest land in favour of State Forest Department (SFD) for compensatory afforestation from the funds provided by the user agency; notification of such non-forest land transferred in favour of the SFD as Reserved Forest/Protected Forest; realization of the Net Present Value (NPV) of the diverted forest from the user agency for execution of various activities for conservation, protection and management of forests and wildlife; and realization of funds from the user agencies for preparation and execution of appropriate plans for conservation and development of wildlife in and around the forest land proposed to be diverted for non-forest purposes. (d) & (e) As mentioned in India State of Forest Report-2011, gregarious occurrence of weeds like lantana in forest areas and agricultural crops like sugarcane, cotton, etc. occurring in the vicinity of forest area cause mixing of the spectral signatures and often make precise forest cover delineation difficult. However, Forest Survey of India takes due care for such areas and through extensive ground truthing this error is minimized. As per ISFR-2011 the accuracy of classification of forest cover is 95.23%.

Annexure I Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 4365 due for answer on 07-05-2013 regarding ‘Forest cover in India’ Forest cover in States/UTs in India (area in Km2)

State/UT Geographical Area

2011 Assessment Very Dense

Forest Mod. Dense

Forest Open Forest

Total Forest cover as percentage

of geographical

area (%) Andhra Pradesh 275069 850 26242 19297 46389 16.86 Arunachal Pradesh 83743 20868 31519 15023 67410 80.50 Assam 78438 1444 11404 14825 27673 35.28 Bihar 94163 231 3280 3334 6845 7.27 Chhattisgarh 135191 4163 34911 16600 55674 41.18 Delhi 1483 7 49 120 176 11.88 Goa 3702 543 585 1091 2219 59.94 Gujarat 196022 376 5231 9012 14619 7.46 Haryana 44212 27 457 1124 1608 3.64 Himachal Pradesh 55673 3224 6381 5074 14679 26.37 Jammu & Kashmir 222236 4140 8760 9639 22539 10.14 Jharkhand 79714 2590 9917 10470 22977 28.82 Karnataka 191791 1777 20179 14238 36194 18.87 Kerala 38863 1442 9394 6464 17300 44.52 Madhya Pradesh 308245 6640 34986 36074 77700 25.21 Maharashtra 307713 8736 20815 21095 50646 16.46 Manipur 22327 730 6151 10209 17090 76.54

Meghalaya 22429 433 9775 7067 17275 77.02 Mizoram 21081 134 6086 12897 19117 90.68 Nagaland 16579 1293 4931 7094 13318 80.33 Orissa 155707 7060 21366 20477 48903 31.41 Punjab 50362 0 736 1028 1764 3.50 Rajasthan 342239 72 4448 11567 16087 4.70 Sikkim 7096 500 2161 698 3359 47.34 Tamil Nadu 130058 2948 10321 10356 23625 18.16 Tripura 10486 109 4686 3182 7977 76.04 Uttar Pradesh 240928 1626 4559 8153 14338 5.95 Uttarakhand 53483 4762 14167 5567 24496 45.80 West Bengal 88752 2984 4646 5365 12995 14.64 A&NIslands 8249 3761 2416 547 6724 81.51 Chandigarh 114 1 10 6 17 14.72 Dadra & Nagar Haveli

491 0 114 97 211 42.97

Daman & Diu 112 0 0.62 5.53 6 5.49 Lakshadweep 32 0 17.18 9.88 27 84.56 Puducherry 480 0 35.37 14.69 50 10.43 Grand Total 3287263 83471 320736 287820 692027 21.05

SAFETY OF ROADS AND BRIDGES 8th August, 2013 RSQ *64 DR. PRABHA THAKUR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state-

(a) whether the roads and bridges leading to all pilgrimages of the country are strong and safe for the passenger vehicles along with the measures taken therefor;

(b) whether safety walls have been constructed along the ditch sides of the passages leading to several famous religious and natural places along with the details thereof;

(c) whether the cleanliness of environment, clean toilets and drinking water around these tourists spots are taken care of properly; and

(d) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 64 on “Safetyof roads and bridges” raised by Dr. Prabha Thakur” to be answered on 08.08.2013. (a) to (d): Under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, New National High ways,expansion of National Highways greater than 30 KM, involving additional right of way greater than 20minvolving land acquisition and passing through more than one State, New State High ways, expansion of State Highway projects in hilly terrain ( above 1,000 m AMSL) and or ecologically sensitive areas andexpressways alone require prior environmental clearance from the Central Government. Theenvironmental aspects of the projects are examined by the Expert Appraisal Committee and environmental clearance (EC) is granted. Conditions on environmental safeguards including a condition that the designcriteria of the road shall follow the Indian Road Congress guidelines are stipulated in the EC. As per the information from Ministry of Tourism (MoT), development and promotion of variouspilgrimage/ tourism destinations, providing sanitation, drinking water facilities and road connectivity tothem are primarily the responsibilities of the respective State Governments/Union Territory (UT)

Administrations/Trusts. However, the MoT provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to various StateGovernments/Union Territory Administrations for various tourism infrastructure projects including forlast mile road connectivity to the tourist sites, which are prioritized every year in consultation with themsubject to availability of funds, inter-se priority and adherence to the scheme guidelines. Various majorPilgrimage / tourist destinations in the country are connected either by the National Highways or State Highways or other roads. Parapet walls on the roads in hilly areas are invariably provided on thecliff/valley side for defining the edge of road and for security of traffic. These are governed by the designstandards of the Indian Roads Congress. These parapet walls along the National Highways are usually0.45m thick in lengths of 2m to 6m with 0.6m to 1m gaps. Their height is usually 0.6 m and follow theregular geometrical edge of the road. MONITORING OF GLACIERS IN HILL STATES 8th August, 2013 RSQ *65 SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is making any special efforts to minimise and monitor the retreating of glaciers in hill States like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir; and

(b) if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to Part (a) and (b) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 65 by Shrimati Maya Singh regarding Monitoring of glaciers in hill States Government is aware of the implications of retreating of glaciers and is implementing the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system as one amongst the eight National Missions under National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) which aims to strengthen the system for observing and monitoring the Himalayan glaciers in hill States like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir. Besides, a research centre on Himalayan Glaciology has been established at Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun to undertake comprehensive glacier research in the country. Further, all states including Himalayan States have been advised to prepare the State Action Plan on Climate Change to address specific climate change issues. FOREST LAND AREA IN RAJASTHAN 8th August, 2013 RSQ *71 SHRI ASHK ALI TAK


(a) the details of area of forest land which is in possession of tribes in Rajasthan; (b) whether Government is contemplating to regularize their occupancy on forest lands, and if so, by when;

(c) the percentage of area declared as forest land out of the total area of Rajasthan; (d) whether there has been rise in the percentage of forest area in the last five years and if so, the area thereof, and (e) the details of the funds provided by Central Government to the State for forest conservation and tree plantation and

the outcomes achieved in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (e) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 71 by Shri Ashk Ali Tak regarding “Forest land area in Rajasthan” due for reply on 08.08.2013 (a) & (b) As per the information received from the Government of Rajasthan, the State Government has taken measures for regularization of occupancy of tribes in forest land under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 hereinafter referred as FRA,2006. A total of 66,631 claims were received by the Gram Sabhas under the FRA, 2006, out of which 33,594 claims have been accepted and the rights of the tribals have been settled over 20540.45 hectares of forest land which was in their possession. The Government has issued directions to settle rest of the claims of those tribals, who had occupied the forest land prior to 13th December 2005. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India is the nodal ministry for implementation of FRA, 2006. (c) & (d) As per India State of Forest Report, 2011, the forest area of the State of Rajasthan is 9.54% of its Geographical Area. As reported by the Government of Rajasthan, there has been a rise in the forest area of the State in the last 5 years. Details are given as under:

S. No. Year Forest Area (in sq. km) 1 2008 32,619.84 2 2009 32,701.35 3 2010 32,702.24 4 2011 32,712.90 5 2012 32,736.64

(e) The Ministry of Environment & Forests provides funds to States/UTs including Rajasthan for conservation of forests and afforestation and eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas. Funds released under various schemes of the Government of India are given in annexure. The outcomes achieved in this regards include improvement in forest and tree cover, enhanced productivity of forests, strengthening of infrastructure in forest and wildlife area for frontline staff, protection from forest fires and soil and water conservation to improve the hydrology of the area, etc. ANNEXURE REFFERED TO IN REPLY TO PART (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 71 BY SHRI ASHK ALI TAK REGARDING “FOREST LAND AREA IN RAJASTHAN” DUE FOR REPLY ON 08.08.2013 Funds Released by the Ministry of Environment & Forests to Rajasthan

(Rs. in lakhs) S. No. Name of the Scheme 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 1. Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IFMS) 103.76 161.15 237.27 2. National Afforestation Programme (NAP) 494.00 623.00 414.00 3. Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning

Authority (CAMPA) 4206.98 3189.13 3742.98

4. Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) 348.06 291.38 478.24

GUIDELINES ON TIGER CONSERVATION 8th August, 2013 RSQ 471 SHRI HUSAIN DALWAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has issued fresh guidelines on tiger conservation; if so, the details thereof; and (b) the details of the reaction of the State Governments on these guidelines?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) In pursuant to the powers conferred under the section 38-O of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the National Tiger Conservation Authority has issued guidelines for tiger conservation and tourism activities in tiger reserves vide notification dated 15th October, 2012. (b) States have taken initiatives to implement the said guidelines. HOTTEST HOTSPOTS OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY 8th August, 2013 RSQ 472 SHRI AJAY SANCHETI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Western Ghats have been incorporated in the Word Heritage List; (b) whether a cluster of 39 sites have also been identified as the world’s eight ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity;

if so the details thereof; and (c) whether uncontrolled tourism, frequent forest fires, illegal mining, encroachments and poaching continue to threaten

this region and if so, the steps taken to protect the region from such activities? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) A series of 39 natural sites located in Western Ghats have been inscribed on the World Heritage List in the year 2012. These sites have been grouped into 7 clusters to represent most of the biodiversity of the Western Ghats. The details of these sites have been given in annexure. (c) The activities and incidents like tourism, forest fires, illegal mining, encroachment and poaching affect all the forest areas. Several legal and administrative steps have been taken to protect the forests and Protected Areas in particular. These are: i.The forests in the States/UTs are protected under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and respective State Forest Acts. The Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 has been enacted to create a network of Protected Areas to cover important wildlife habitat and to grant those habitat as well wild fauna and selected species of flora protection from destruction and hunting.

ii.The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 has been enacted to regulate the diversion of forest land to non forestry uses. Further, no forest land can be diverted from Protected Areas for non forestry use without concurrence of the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife. iii. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up as a multi-disciplinary agency to deal with wildlife crimes having inter-state, cross- border and international ramifications. iv.Financial and technical assistance is extended to the State/Union Territory Governments under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz, ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats', ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ with a view to improving protection and conservation of wildlife. ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) AND (b) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 472 ON HOTTEST HOTSPOTS OF BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY ASKED BY SHRI AJAY SANCHETI TO BE ANSWERED ON 08-08-2013 Sub-cluster Site Element No. Site Element Name Area (km2) State (1) Agasthyamalai 001 Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tiger

Reserve 895.00 Tamil Nadu

002 Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

171.00 Kerala

003 Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary 128.00 Kerala 004 Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary 53.00 Kerala 005 Kulathupuzha Range 200.00 Kerala 006 Palode Range 165.00 Kerala

(2) Periyar 007 Periyar Tiger Reserve 777.00 Kerala 008 Ranni Forest Division 828.53 Kerala 009 Konni Forest Division 261.43 Kerala 010 Achankovil Forest Division 219.90 Kerala 011 Srivilliputtur Wildlife

Sanctuary 485.00 Tamil Nadu

012 Tirunelveli (North) Forest Division (part)

234.67 Tamil Nadu

(3) Anamalai 013 Eravikulam National Park (and proposed extension)

127.00 Kerala

014 Grass Hills National Park 31.23 Tamil Nadu 015 Karian Shola National Park 5.03 Tamil Nadu 016 Karian Shola (part of

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary)

3.77 Kerala

017 Mankulam Range 52.84 Kerala 018 Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary 90.44 Kerala 019 Mannavan Shola 11.26 Kerala

(4) Nilgiri 020 Silent Valley National Park 89.52 Kerala 021 New Amarambalam Reserved

Forest 246.97 Kerala

022 Mukurti National Park 78.50 Tamil Nadu 023 Kalikavu Range 117.05 Kerala 024 Attapadi Reserved Forest 65.75 Kerala

(5) Talacauvery 025 Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary 102.59 Karnataka 026 Brahmagiri Wildlife

Sanctuary 181.29 Karnataka

027 Talacauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

105.00 Karnataka

028 Padinalknad Reserved Forest 184.76 Karnataka 029 Kerti Reserved Forest 79.04 Karnataka 030 Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary 55.00 Kerala

(6) Kudremukh 031 Kudremukh National Park 600.32 Karnataka 032 Someshwara Wildlife

Sanctuary 88.40 Karnataka

033 Someshwara Reserved Forest 112.92 Karnataka 034 Agumbe Reserved Forest 57.09 Karnataka 035 Balahalli Reserved Forest 22.63 Karnataka

(7) Sahyadri 036 Kas Plateau 11.42 Maharashtra

037 Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary 423.55 Maharashtra 038 Chandoli National Park 308.90 Maharashtra 039 Radhanagari Wildlife

Sanctuary 282.35 Maharashtra

GRAND-TOTAL 7,953.15 TIGER RESERVE PROJECT ADJOINING KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK 8th August, 2013 RSQ 473 SHRI AVINASH RAI KHANNA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that a tribal community in central Assam’s Karbi Anglong district has floated a group to oppose the creation of the tiger reserve in the entire length and breadth of the tribal community just adjoining Kaziranga National Park; if so, the details thereof and the reaction of Government therein; and

(b) whether Government is thinking to drop this project keeping in view the strong local sentiments?


(a) No such report/proposal has been received from the Government of Assam. (b) Question does not arise.

IMPLEMENTATION OF COPENHAGEN AND RIO DECLARATION 8th August, 2013 RSQ 474 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister for ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is not in agreement with the Copenhagen Declaration and Rio 2012 Declaration; if so, the steps taken by Government to ensure environmental sustainability and MDG Goal No. 7; and

(b) whether the developing countries are facing problems as there is sharp contradiction in implementing Goal No. 01 to Goal No. 06 and Goal No. 07 and if so, what is the way out for India? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) No, Sir. The Government is in agreement with the Copenhagen Declaration and Rio 2012 Declaration. The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation is the nodal ministry for preparing the country report in respect of MDGs. The latest MDG India report ‘Millennium Development Goals –India Country Report 2011’ (available at www.mospi.nic.in) has stated that the progress of MDG 7 against its indicator viz. ‘Integrate the principles of sustainable development into country policies and programmes and reverse the loss of environmental resources’ is ‘On-track’. The table indicating the progress against various MDGs is at Annexure - A.

Annexure -A MDGs and Targets - Summary of progress achieved by India

MDG 1: Eradicate Extreme Poverty And Hunger TARGET 1: Halve, between 1990 and 2015, the Percentage of Population below the National Poverty Line

On-track

TARGET 2: Halve, between 1990 and 2015, the proportion of people who suffer fromhunger Slow or almost off-track

MDG 2: Achieve Universal Primary Education TARGET 3: Ensure that, by 2015, children everywhere, boys and girls alike, will be ableto complete a full course of primary schooling

On-track

MDG 3: Promote Gender Equality And Empower Women TARGET 4 :Eliminate gender disparity in primary and secondary education, preferablyby 2005, and in all levels of education no later than 2015

On-track for Primary and Secondary education and slow for higher education

MDG 4: Reduce Child MortalityTARGET 5 : Reduce by two-thirds, between 1990 and 2015, the Under- Five Morality Rate Moderately on -track

MDG5 5: Improve Maternal Health

TARGET 6 :Reduce by three quarters, between 1990 and 2015, the maternalmortality ratio Slow or off-track

MDG 6: Combat Hiv/Aids, Malaria And Other Diseases

TARGET 7 :Have halted by 2015 and begun to reverse the spread of HIV/AIDS Moderately on-track

TARGET 8: Have halted by 2015 and begun to reverse the incidence of malaria andother major diseases Slow or off-track1

MDG 7: Ensure Environmental Sustainability

TARGET 9: Integrate the principal of sustainable development into country policies and programmes and reverse the loss of environmental resources.

On-track

TARGET 10: Halve, by 2015, the proportion of people without sustainable access to safedrinking water and basic sanitation

On-track or fast by one main indicator (for drinking water) but slow by another main indicator (Sanitation)

TARGET 11 : By 2020, to have achieved a significant improvement in the lives of at least 100 million slum dwellers

The pattern not statistically discernible

MDG 8: Develop A Global Partnership For Development

TARGET 18 : In cooperation with the private sector, make available the benefitsof new technologies, especially information and communications

Not Applicable

1 Prevalence and death rates of TB are showing fluctuating trend over the years.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND AFFORESTATION IN GUJARAT

8th August, 2013

RSQ 475 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that 9.18 lakh hectares of land has been covered in Gujarat under Environment Protection and Afforestation;

(b) how much funds have been spent on the same by State Government of Gujarat; (c) whether Union Government intends to meet at least 50 per cent of the expenditure incurred by Gujarat and other

States; and (d) if not, why Union Government is so neglectful towards environmental protection and afforestation?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI

JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) As per the information provided by the State Government of Gujarat, about 9.09 lakh ha area has been covered under afforestation in the State during the last ten years, incurring an investment of Rs. 2934.74 crores. (c) and (d) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing National Afforestation Programme (NAP) which is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme for tree plantation and eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas of the country through people’s participation. An amount of Rs 209.79 crores has been released to Gujarat to treat an area of 100175 hectares since inception of NAP in 2000-2002. The details of area approved and funds released under NAP to states including Gujarat since inception are given in annexure I and II. Besides NAP, MoEF is also implementing the National Mission for Green India (GIM) on landscape approach with people’s participation. An amount of Rs 49.95 crores has been released to 21 states under GIM for addressing preparatory activities in 71 identified landscapes during 2011-12, of which Rs. 1.34 crores has been released to Gujarat state for two identified landscapes. Apart from NAP, funds for afforestation are also provided to the States including Gujarat under other Centrally Sponsored Schemes like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), National Bamboo Mission, 13th

Finance Commission etc.

Annexure - I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (C) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION. NUMBER 475 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 08.08.2013 REGARDING ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND AFFORESTATION IN GUJARAT. Details of State-wise approved area in hectares under National Afforestation Programme (NAP) during last three years (2010-11 to 2012-13) and current year. S. No.

States 00-02

02-03 03-04 04-05 05-06

06-07

07-08

08-09

09-10

10-11

11-12

12-13

13-14

Total

1 Andhra Pradesh

2000 21090 13040 7780 2690 13859 8182 4182 2341 5453 0 1605 82222

2 Bihar 0 0 7750 2400 2165 9016 3675 3475 0 5647 2415 3355 39898 3 Chhattis 1950 15670 19869 2800 2225 40990 14706 8450 1177 8370 2934 1906 12104

garh 7 4 Goa 0 0 1250 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1250 5 Gujarat 1500 12415 6600 4930 5000 32545 14620 4920 1760 11150 2000 2735 10017

5 6 Haryana 9400 3405 7250 1000 1050 8298 8260 5526 1100 3145 1519 1835 51788 7 Himacha

l Pradesh

2950 1520 20434 7474 0 10028 1222 1255 1646 2566 1450 908 51453

8 Jammu & Kashmir

4580 28204 15055 0 0 7735 6370 3550 0 4857 4486 2260 77097

9 Jharkhand

0 5700 25400 7500 1250 31990 14680 9980 0 4815 0 3975 105290

10 Karnataka

625 42770 6450 4790 2650 32905 3765 2200 0 9523 1880 3070 110628

11 Kerala 0 6600 5890 805 2955 10518 4118 1095 666 2947 1000 1620 38214 12 Madhya

Pradesh 20300

32650 5700 14700 3170 28707 13367 6188 13000

10219 5125 2610 155736

13 Maharashtra

4003 17925 31580 8605 3175 41538 5182 7219 0 9854 2900 3785 135766

14 Orissa 820 39636 6228 2313 6025 59140 7400 1745 0 7410 1975 4910 137602

15 Punjab 650 0 3300 900 3385 7687 1640 547 0 625 0 1347 20081 16 Rajastha

n 1250 12550 6800 2500 5090 1000 9500 6800 400 3300 1250 2325 52765

17 Tamil Nadu

2500 21400 19577 7450 1340 6230 5670 4025 0 2984 1800 2094 75070

18 Uttar Pradesh

7344 33615 19028 2000 1017 39104 18355 9664 5167 12435 4270 3870 155869

19 Uttarakhand

815 4122 18186 10346 5665 18867 3510 4065 3340 5058 2350 1241 77565

20 West Bengal

0 9470 9286 3900 200 9984 4793 615 2815 2360 710 970 45103

Total (Other States)

60687

308742

248673

92193 49052

0 410141

149015

85501 33412

112718

38064

46421

1634619

21 Arunachal Pradesh

3846 11030 4600 0 1940 5705 1450 1750 3125 0 0 0 33446

22 Assam 0 0 19665 4350 2940 15660 6365 3625 0 0 0 0 52605 23 Manipur 0 11674 5600 600 500 12295 2950 1525 3599 4250 3970 1530 48493 24 Meghala

ya 0 0 0 7400 0 8075 1970 800 4800 3930 3000 3000 32975

25 Mizoram

0 26170 600 0 0 16150 4500 2700 2370 2600 2500 1530 59120

26 Nagaland

4130 19000 2398 0 0 10640 3500 4050 2000 8000 2910 4000 60628

27 Sikkim 1600 11783 1000 0 0 6045 3350 2225 1549 3730 650 1095 33027 28 Tripura 805 16400 0 2200 0 8350 335 1380 6271 6220 4435 3900 50296 Total (NE States)

10381

96057 33863 14550 5380 0 82920 24420 18055 23714

28730 17465

15055

370590

TOTAL 71068

404799

282536

106743

54432

0 493061

173435

103556

57126

141448

55529

61476

2005209

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (C) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION. NUMBER 475 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 08.08.2013 REGARDING ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND AFFORESTATION IN GUJARAT. Details funds released to States under National Afforestation Programme during 2010-11 to 2013-14 (Rs. in crore) S. No.

States 00-02 02-03 03-04 04-05 05-06

06-07 07-08

08-09

09-10

10-11 11-12

12-13

13-14

Total

1 Andhra Pradesh

0.99 8.35 10.44 14.21 7.08 11.06 9.97

11.54

11.03

10.48 15.15

2.71 3.75 116.76

2 Bihar 0.00 0.00 1.88 2.74 3.42 4.94 6.92

6.48 7.74 5.48 6.92 3.40 10.24 60.16

3 Chhattisgarh

0.77 5.89 10.20 17.50 17.63

13.05 42.71

25.66

25.12

33.25 24.74

13.33

7.75 237.60

4 Goa 0.00 0.00 0.64 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

0.00 0.00 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.64

5 Gujarat 0.85 3.87 3.20 8.77 12.05

17.52 30.93

25.75

24.44

29.43 27.00

14.30

11.68 209.79

6 Haryana 9.23 10.58 7.76 7.46 4.35 9.20 12.93

20.14

20.57

24.20 12.28

6.41 9.31 154.42

7 Himachal Pradesh

2.20 0.60 6.95 10.60 9.08 11.56 7.43

6.72 3.59 3.45 3.50 3.62 2.61

71.91 8 Jammu

& Kashmir

1.54 5.45 7.21 3.56 5.28 5.83 8.13

8.47 9.81 3.99

6.89 3.37 8.11 77.64 9 Jharkhan

d 0.00 1.34 9.27 8.66 7.85 19.03 24.

56 26.32

21.06

8.73 10.42 4.69 9.02 150.95

10 Karnataka

0.43 15.70 15.54 21.17 23.03

23.54 31.02

15.46

11.95

8.12 12.92

6.81 9.26 194.94

11 Kerala 0.00 1.06 3.47 1.04 4.99 12.75 8.81

9.45 4.02 7.54 2.04 11.30

6.96 73.42

12 Madhya Pradesh

13.71 13.81 10.92 17.18 12.61

15.83 13.84

22.55

22.53

30.39 21.43

9.15 15.12 219.07

13 Maharashtra

1.85 4.87 11.91 13.12 14.69

15.93 29.92

21.87

20.53

16.17 28.51

28.87

12.88 221.13

14 Orissa 0.05 13.14 5.96 11.26 12.05

14.07 19.01

21.63

8.82 11.20 7.30 3.38 5.36 133.22

15 Punjab 0.25 0.25 1.74 0.14 3.97 3.36 5.88

3.30 3.01 0 0.46 0.76 2.00 25.13

16 Rajasthan

1.29 4.45 5.56 4.80 7.26 5.62 2.50

7.32 10.67

4.94 6.23 4.14 2.81 67.58

17 Tamil Nadu

0.76 7.82 14.66 14.06 20.92

17.22 9.46

8.86 7.98 7.21 3.08 2.78 3.14 117.95

18 Uttar Pradesh

7.04 20.01 21.34 18.16 17.04

11.88 36.77

30.80

30.20

21.33 26.23

15.27

9.58 258.30

19 Uttarakhand

0.40 2.34 5.81 10.54 13.10

11.52 12.39

9.24 7.00 4.47 6.61

6.25 2.25 91.93

20 West Bengal

0.00 2.26 5.55 6.03 5.92 7.00 7.23

9.06 3.11 4.12 6.29 2.57 2.96 62.11

Total (Other States)

41.36 121.79

160.01

191.00

202.32

230.92

320.40

290.62

253.17

234.50

228.00

143.11

134.78

2551.97

21 Arunachal Pradesh

1.40 2.76 4.49 0.76 2.89 2.93 4.85

3.25 2.37 5.52

0.00 1.66 0.00 32.87 22 Assam 0.00 0.00 5.58 7.99 5.50 13.60 8.5

8 9.78 14.4

8 6.08

7.95 1.47 0.00 81.00 23 Manipur 0.00 2.40 5.08 5.43 6.30 7.78 12.

37 9.51 5.93 10.37 12.7

4 9.46 5.56

92.93 24 Meghala

ya 0.00 0.00 0.00 2.45 5.18 5.44 5.9

4 4.69 2.21 8.79

4.31 9.10 4.50 52.60 25 Mizoram 0.00 8.86 15.85 11.20 10.0

6 13.09 16.

75 13.61

17.27

12.21 13.44

8.78 5.58 146.71

26 Nagaland

2.08 8.51 8.94 5.60 5.37 7.22 7.75

6.64 10.67

10.11 11.69

10.88

4.91 100.37

27 Sikkim 2.43 3.76 4.06 3.94 6.23 7.41 11.28

6.63 8.86 11.99 11.18

5.42 3.77 86.96

28 Tripura 0.26 3.18 3.97 4.63 4.27 4.37 5.02

0.89 3.20 10.43 13.69

3.50 6.50 63.91

Total (NE States)

6.17 29.47 47.97 42.00 45.80

61.83 72.55

55.00

65.00

75.49 75.00

50.26

30.82

657.36

G. Total 47.53 151.26

207.98

233.00

248.12

292.75

392.95

345.62

318.17

309.99

303.00

193.37

165.60

3209.33

DECLINE IN TIGER POPULATION 8th August, 2013 RSQ 476 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that like Sariska Rajasthan many tiger reserves like Sundarban and Simlipal do not have sufficient number of tigers left and the number of tigers shown are only paper figures; and

(b) if so, whether Government will make a special inquiry in Sundarban and Simlipal to determine the real figures of tigers in these tiger projects? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The country level tiger population, assessed once in every four years using the refined methodology, has shown an increasing trend with a population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively, in the recent assessment of 2010, as compared to the last country level assessment of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. The details of tiger estimation in landscapes including Sundarbans and Similipal, for the years 2006 and 2010, are at Annexure-I. Under the Phase-IV tiger reserve level monitoring, photo captures of tigers have been obtained in tiger reserves, including Similipal and Sundarbans. ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 476 ON DECLINE IN TIGER POPULATION DUE FOR REPLY ON 08.08.2013. Details of tiger estimation for the year 2006 and 2010 State Tiger Population


Estimate (Number)



Estimate (Number)





297 259 335 353

320 388 Stable




601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable


Karnataka 290 241 339 300 280 320 Stable

Kerala 46 39 53 71 67 75 Increase Tamil Nadu 76 56 95 163 153 173 Increase Western Ghats landscape

402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase







100

84 118 148

118 178 Increase



TOTAL 1411 1165 1657 1706 1520 1909

*** Statistical lower / upper limits could not be ascertained owing to small size of the population. PLAN TO DEAL WITH CLIMATE CHANGE 8th August, 2013 RSQ 477 SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether there is any national plan to deal with the climatic change; if so, the details thereof; (b) whether Centre has directed the State Governments to develop their own "State Action Plan for Climatic Change";

the details thereof; (c) the details of the States which have the Action Plan and those which are yet to prepare the Action Plan and where

stands the State of Jharkhand in this regard; and (d) in what manner the State Action Plan for climate change will be integrated to the National Action Plan for climatic

change? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Government has released the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) on June 30, 2008. NAPCC comprises, inter alia, of eight National Missions in specific areas of Solar Energy, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate Change. (b) to (d) As a follow-up to the announcement made by Prime Minsiter’s in the State Environment Ministers’ Meeting held in August, 2009, States have been advised to prepare the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) in-line with the objectives of the NAPCC.

22 states namely, Andaman and Nicobar, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Kerala, Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odhisa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh and West Bengal have prepared the SAPCC. Jharkhand State is yet to submit the SAPCC report to the Ministry of Environment and Forests. FORMATION OF 5.60 KM ROAD FROM DINDI PWD TO KESHRAJPALLY 8th August, 2013 RSQ 478 SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry is aware that Andhra Pradesh Government's proposal for formation of 5.60 km road from Dindi PWD Road to Keshrajpally, will benefit the people of these remote and interior areas in terms of providing communication facilities and to minimize the dangerous Naxalite activities, in the larger public interest;

(b) if so, the reasons and circumstances for not giving/ delay in giving clearance to this proposal; and if not, the detailed reasons therefor; and

(c) by when this shortest distance proposal atleast is likely to be cleared as an ideal solution to Naxalite menace? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b): Yes, Sir. A proposal for diversion of 8.70 ha of forest land in Nidugul Reserve Forest for formation of about 5.60 km road from Dindi PWD to Keshrajpally was submitted by the Government of Andhra Pradesh on 27.08.2009 to the Regional Office of the Ministry at Bangalore. On examination of the proposal by the Regional Office Bangalore, it was observed that the proposed area was falling in Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve. The State Government was, therefore, requested to obtain permission of the National Board for Wildlife and Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. The proposal was considered in the 17th meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife held on 22.12.2009. During the discussion, the Chief Wildlife Warden, Government of Andhra Pradesh had opined that there was another alternative available to the proposed road. The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife unanimously decided that the project should be undertaken on the alternate route as suggested by the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State Government. The Regional Office, Bangalore, therefore, returned the proposal on 08.04.2010 to the Government of Andhra Pradesh. (c): Does not arise. SURVEY TO IDENTITY THE ENDANGERED ANIMAL SPECIES 8th August, 2013 RSQ 479 SHRI K.C. TYAGI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has conducted any survey to identify the animal species that are on the verge of extinction; if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(b) whether Government has any proposal to launch new projects for protection of birds and the endangered species in the country and if so, the details of such projects and the budget allocation during the last five years for the purpose; and

(c) the steps taken by Government to protect these endangered species and the achievements made as a result thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Zoological Survey of India conducts exploration and status survey of faunal resources of the country and based on the same, animal species that are on the verge of extinction are identified. On the basis of recommendation received from the Zoological Survey of India, the Ministry takes necessary measures for protection and conservation of such species. In addition, in pursuance of the decision taken in the meeting of the National Board for Wildlife held on 01.11.2007, two subcommittees of experts were formed to assess and prioritize species under threat of extinction and suggest guidelines for their recovery. These committees identified 8 terrestrial and 9 marine species for conservation action. (b)&(c) The Ministry provides financial assistance to State Governments for undertaking “Recovery Programmes for saving critically endangered species” as a component of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’. Budget is not allocated separately for this component. At present, seventeen species have been prioritized for taking up such recovery programmes which include Snow Leopard, Bustards (including Floricans), River Dolphin, Hangul, Nilgiri Tahr, Marine Turtles, Dugongs and coral reefs, Edible-nest Swiftlets, Asian Wild Buffalo, Nicobar Megapode, Manipur Brow-antlered deer, Vultures, Malabar civet, the great one-horned rhinoceros, Asiatic Lion, Swamp deer and Jerdon’s Courser. Presently there is no proposal with the Government to launch any new projects in this regard. Under the component “Recovery Programmes for Saving Critically Endangered Species” of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats” (CSS-IDWH) financial assistance has been provided for eight critically endangered species including Snow Leopard, Hangul, Dugongs, Edible-nest Swiftlets, Asian Wild Buffalo, Manipur Brow-antlered deer, Vultures and Asiatic Lion as per the proposals received from various State/Union Territory Governments. The details of financial assistance released to the State/Union Territory Governments for undertaking Recovery Programmes for saving critically endangered species under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats” during the last five years are as follows:

Year Amount released (Rs. in lakhs)

2008-09 377.70 2009-10 72.95 2010-11 858.593 2011-12 788.317 2012-13 182.718

Other steps taken by the Government for protection of endangered species of wild animals in the country include:


ii. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 has been amended and made more stringent. The punishment for offences under the Act have been enhanced. The Act also provides for forfeiture of any equipment, vehicle or weapon that is used for committing wildlife offence(s).


iv. The Government had launched two programmes, namely, Project Tiger and Project Elephant aimed at protection of endangered species with specific focus on tigers and elephants respectively. As a result of the efforts made in these two programmes, tiger population in the country has shown increasing trend and elephant population has remained steady during last few years.

v. Financial and technical assistance is provided to the State/ Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats', ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ for providing better protection to wildlife, and improvement of its habitat.



viii. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to strengthen the enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.

ix. Strict vigil is maintained by the officials of State Departments of Forests and Wildlife. The periodic assessments carried out in respect of prioritized species, rhinoceros and lion, have indicated improvement in their population status. MEASURES TAKEN TO SAVE ECOLOGY AND LIVES OF PEOPLE 8th August, 2013 RSQ 480 SHRI ALOK TIWARI: SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH: SHRI PRABHAT JHA SMT KUSUM RAI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether CAG had warned of severe hazards of natural ecology and stabilization of hill slopes along the river bed while environmental assessment of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers three years back; if so, the details thereof;

(b) the reasons for failure of Government to act against the recommendations of CAG and for ignoring the damage to lives and property in the area; and

(c) the fresh measures Government would take in view of the recent disaster in Uttarakhand to save ecology and lives of people? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Ministry is not aware of any CAG report regarding warning of severe hazards of natural ecology and stabilization of hill slopes in Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers. (b) Does not arise in view of (a) above. (c ) An assessment of cumulative impact of dams in Bhagirathi and Alaknanda Basins has been carried-out by Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee and Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun. To review the report along with other related issues of river Ganga, the Ministry constituted an Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG) under the Chairmanship of Shri. B. K. Chatruvedi, Member, Planning Commission. The IMG has suggested environmental flow requirements for various stretches of Bhagirathi, Alaknanda and other tributaries of river Ganga in the State of Uttarakhand. The IMG has submitted its report to the Ministry. In order to regulate development in the fragile Himalayan region, the Central Government has notified the entire watershed of about 100 kilometres stretch of the river Bhagirathi from Gaumukh to Uttarkashi covering an area of 4179.59 square kilometres as an Eco-sensitive Zone in December, 2012. CLEARANCE ISSUANCE MECHANISM IN NEW CRZ NOTIFICATION 8th August, 2013 RSQ 481

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Clearance issuance mechanism in new CRZ Notification is issued based on the pollution potential of the projects within the CRZ areas; if so, what is the mechanism for the projects which have low pollution potential and does not attract provisions of EIA Notification; and

(b) whether it is a fact that some State Governments have taken up the issue of revising issuance process for the projects, which only attract provisions of CRZ Notification 2011 and if so, what decision has been taken by Government in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification,2011 prohibits pollution potential activities such as establishment of new industries and expansion of existing industries within CRZ areas. The Notification provides CRZ clearance issuance mechanism for the permissible activities such as port and harbours, foreshore facilities, buildings etc, in CRZ areas. As per the Notification, the projects in CRZ areas which do not attract the provisions of EIA Notification, 2006 are required to obtain CRZ clearance from Government of India. (b) No request has been received from any State Government to revise the issuance process for the projects which only attract provisions of CRZ Notification, 2011. ROAD CONSTRUCTION PROPOSALS AWAITING CLEARANCE 8th August, 2013` RSQ 482 SHRI TARUN VIJAY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of road construction proposals that are still pending with the Ministry awaiting clearance and the reasons for delay;

(b) the details of such proposals, length of roads, dates when they were submitted, area where the roads are sought to be constructed; and

(c) whether the Ministry has done any study about the impact of climate change and environmental degradation of Uttarakhand hills on the people and whether any connection of such developments with continuing natural disasters has been established?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) As on date, twenty one road construction projects are awaiting Environment Clearance (EC). The details of these projects along with the status are given in Annexure. (c) No, Sir. However, as per the report released by this Ministry in the year 2010 entitled “Climate Change and India: A 4X4 Assessment - A Sectoral and Regional Analysis for 2030s” which has assessed impacts of climate change on four sectors, namely, Agriculture, Natural Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Water resources and Health in four regions, namely, the Himalayan, Western Ghat, North-eastern and Coastal regions. Key findings relating to the Himalayan region are as follows:-

• The mean annual temperature is projected to increase by 0.9 ± 0.6oC to 2.6 ± 0.7oC in the 2030s. • The annual rainfall in the Himalayan region is likely to vary between 1268 ± 225.2 mm and 1604 ± 175.2

mm in the 2030s i.e. likely to increase by 5% to 13% with respect to the 1970s.

• Livestock productivity is projected to rise in many parts of the Himalayan region during the March–September season with a maximum rise during April–July in the 2030s, as compared to the 1970s.

• The Net Primary Productivity (NPP) is projected to increase in the region by about 57% on an average by the 2030s.

• Projections of malaria transmission windows for the 2030s, based on temperature, reveal introduction of new foci in Jammu and Kashmir and an increase in opening of more transmission months in districts of the Himalayan region and the north-eastern states.

• The water yield in this region is likely to increase by 5%–20% in most of the areas, with some areas of Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand showing an increase of up to 50% with respect to the 1970s.

Annexure

Sl.No State Project Details Date of

Receipt Length (in Km)

Status

1. Punjab Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & upgradation of existing 2 lane to 2/4 with paved shoulder from Amritsar to Sri Ganganagar Section of NH-15 in the State of Punjab from Km 103.000 to km 399.000 by NHAI

20.05.2013 286.198 Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) considered the project in its meeting held in June, 2013 and recommended for grant of EC. The proposal is under process.

2. Punjab Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & upgradation of existing 2 lane to 2/4 with paved shoulder from Sangroor-Punjab/ Haryana Border NH - 71 in the state of Punjab by NHAI

25.05.2013 57.014 EAC considered the project in its meeting held in June, 2013 and recommended for grant of EC. The proposal is under process

3. Rajasthan Environmental Clearance for Widening & Improvement of Existing alignment to 4-lane with Paved Shoulder of Kaithal-Rajasthan Border (Kaithal km.33.250 to Narwana (km.0.000) NH-152 and Narwana (km.121.400) to Rajasthan Border (km.241.580) NH-65 by NHAI

22.05.2013 165.759 EAC considered the project in its meeting held in June, 2013 and recommended for grant of EC. The proposal is under process.

4. Haryana Environmental Clearance for four laning of Rohtak –Jind section from km. 307.00 to km.347.800 of NH-71 and connecting link from km. 347.800 of NH-71 to km. 9.400 of NH-71A to be executed as BOT(Toll) on DBFOT Pattern under NHDP Phase III in the state of Haryana by NHAI


5. Rajasthan Environmental Clearance for widening & improvement of existing alignment to two lane with Paved Shoulder of Karauli to Dholpur Section (Km.83.960 to Km.184.860) of NH-11 B including Borrow Areas in Rajasthan State by NHAI


6. Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh

Environmental Clearance for widening & improvement of Existing alignment to two lane with Paved Shoulder of Sitarganj - Bareilly Section, Km 254.820 to Km 330.910 (Design chainage 254.820 to 329.280) of NH-74 in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh States


7. Himachal Pradesh Environmental Clearance for widening & improvement of Existing alignment to 4- lanes of Solan-Shimla Section of NH-22 in the State of Himachal Pradesh by NHAI


8. Karnataka Environmental Clearance for upgradation of existing carriageway to 4/6 lanning of Hubli - Hospet section of NH-63 in the State of Karnataka by NHAI


9. Bihar Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation and upgrading to 2 lane / 2

15.05.2013 106 EAC considered the project in its meeting held in June, 2013 and

lane with paved shoulder and strengthening of Birpur –Bihpur section of NH-106 (Km.-0 to km –136 in the State of Bihar

recommended for grant of EC. The proposal is under process.

10. Bihar Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation and upgrading to 2 lane / 2 lane with paved shoulder and strengthening of Fathua – Harnaut – Barh section in the state of Bihar

15.05.2013 69.600 EAC considered the project in its meeting held in June, 2013 and recommended for grant of EC.

11. Rajasthan Environmental Clearance for widening & rehabilitation of existing 2 lane to 4 lane of Rajasamand to Bhilwara Section of NH-758 (from Km 0.000 to 87.250) in the State of Rajasthan


12. Rajasthan Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing single/inter-mediate lane to 2-lane with paved shoulder of section Nimbi Jodha (Near Ladnu) at km 0.00 - Degna - Merta City at km 139.900 of NH-458D in the State of Rajasthan by M/s NHAI

23.04.2013 139.900 EAC considered the project in its meeting held in May, 2013 and recommended for grant of EC. The proposal is under process.

13. Rajasthan Environmental Clearance for widening and rehabilitation of existing 2-lane to 2-lane with paved shoulder of NH-148D from junction of NH-8 at Bheem, chainage at NH-8 from km 109.750 in Rajasmand district and end at km 64.200 of NH-79 at Gulabpura in Bhilwara district in the State of Rajasthan by M/s NHAI


14. Bihar Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation and upgrading to 2 lane/2 lane with paved shoulder configuration and strengthening of Anishabad-Aurangabad-Hariharganj section of NH-98 in the state of Bihar by M/s Superintending Engineer-cum-Nodal Officer, Patna Bihar


15. Bihar Environmental Clearance for four laning of Rajauli-Bakhtiyarpur section of NH-31 from Km 47.677 (Rajauli) to Km. 154.500 (Bakhtiyarpur) in the state of Bihar by M/s Bihar State Road Development Corporation Ltd


16. Rajasthan Environmental Clearance for 4 laning of Baghana-Gomti section from km.147.00 to km 177.050 on NH-8 in the state of Rajasthan by M/s DCM, Ajmer Road, Jaipur, Rajasthan


17. Bihar Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation and up-gradation to 2 lane with paved shoulders configuration of Sheohar-Sitamarhi-Jainagar-Narhiya section (NH-104) in the State of Bihar by M/s NH Works Circle, RCD Patna Bihar

28.03.2013 177 EAC considered the project in its meeting held in May, 2013 and recommended for grant of EC. The proposal is under process.

18. Andhra Pradesh Environmental Clearance for widening and upgradation of existing 4-lane to 6 laning of Vijayawada to Gundugolanu Section of NH-5 from Km 1112.004 to km 1022.480 including New Vijaywada and Hanuman Junction Bypasses in the State of Andhra Pradesh by M/s NHAI

18.03.2013 89.524 EAC considered the project in its meetings held in March, 2013 & May, 2013 and recommended for grant of EC. The proposal is under process.

19. Madhya Pradesh EC for widening and improvement of existing 2-lane to 4-lane in the section of Obedullahaganj – Hoshangabad – Itarsi – Betul of NH-69 in the State of Madhya Pradesh by M/s NHAI

13.07.2012 121.36 EAC considered the project in its meeting held in August, 2012 and recommended for EC. Additional information sought by the Ministry. Information submitted by PP in July, 2013.

The proposal is under process.

20. Rajasthan EC for Bikaner – Suratgarh section from km 0/0 to km 173/0 of NH-15 by M/s Superintending Engineer, PWD, NH Circle, Bikaner

15.10.2012 172.384 EAC considered the project in its meeting held in November, 2012 and recommended for grant of EC. Additional information sought by the Ministry. Information submitted by PP in July, 2013. The proposal is under process.

21. Haryana Environment Clearance for 4/6 laning of Panchkula - Barwala - Saha - Yamunagar -Haryana up to HR/UP Border of NH-73 by NHAI


GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPMENT IN HILLY AREAS 8th August, 2013` RSQ 483 DR. KANWAR DEEP SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether in the aftermath of the Uttarakhand floods, Government is planning to come up with new guidelines for sustainable development in hilly areas; if so, the details thereof; and

(b) if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): The environment and forest clearance for various developmental projects, including those in hilly areas in the State of Uttarakhand, are granted after following statutory procedures. The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 as amended from time to time, prescribes the procedure to be adopted for the grant of prior environment clearance in respect of developmental projects or activities stated in the Schedule to the Notification. Similarly, the diversion of forest land for non-forest activities is only allowed as per the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the rules framed thereunder. In addition to the regular environment regulatory regime, the Ministry of Environment & Forests has notified vide S.O. NO. 2930 (E) dated 18th December, 2012, the entire watershed of about 100 kilometers stretch of the river Bhagirathi from Gaumukh to Uttarkashi covering an area of 4,179.59 squire kilometers in the State of Uttarakhand as Eco-sensitive Zone thereby inter-alia prohibiting and regulating certain activities within the Zone. SPECIAL PROGRAMME FOR RECOVERY OF CRITICALLY ENDANGERED SPECIES 8th August, 2013 RSQ 484 DR. CHANDAN MITRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has launched a Special Programme for recovery of critically endangered species; if so, the progress of work done under the programme so far;

(b) the reasons for ineffective implementation of the programme; and (c) the steps taken by Government for conservation of 132 species of flora and fauna of the country that

are tagged as critically endangered in the Red List of Threatened Species drawn by the International Union for Conservation of Nature especially in Madhya Pradesh?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) This Ministry provides financial and technical assistance to the State/Union Territory Governments for protection and conservation of wildlife life and its habitats under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’, which inter alia includes a component “Recovery Programmes for Critically Endangered Species”. An amount of Rs. 2280.278 lakh has been released for recovery programme of eight critically endangered species including Snow Leopard, Hangul, Dugongs, Edible-nest Swiftlets, Asian Wild Buffalo, Manipur Brow-antlered deer, Vultures and Asiatic Lion as per the proposals received from various State/Union Territory Governments during the last five years. (c) The steps taken by the Government for conservation of endangered species of wild flora and fauna including in the country include:




iv. The Government had launched two programmes, namely, Project Tiger and Project Elephant aimed at protection of endangered species with specific focus on tigers and elephants respectively. As a result of the efforts made in these two programmes, tiger population in the country has shown increasing trend and elephant population has remained steady during last few years.




viii. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to strengthen the enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.

ix. Strict vigil is maintained by the officials of State Departments of Forests and Wildlife. POLLUTION LEVEL OF THE NATIONAL CAPITAL 8th August, 2013 RSQ 485 SHRI RAJKUMAR DHOOT: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that National Capital is one of the most polluted cities in the country; if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether it is also a fact that the pollution level of the Capital is being further aggravated by the ruthless felling of large number of fully grown up tress by PWD and other agencies; if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the remedial measures that Government proposes to take in the matter? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a). The level of pollution with respect to ambient air is regularly monitored at 550 locations in 234 cities, towns and industrial areas across the country including Delhi by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in association with various state pollution control boards, pollution control committees for Union Territories and NEERI, Nagpur in terms of Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and PM10 (particulate matter size equal to or less than 10 micron) under National Air Monitoring Programme. The ambient air quality in Delhi is monitored by CPCB, NEERI and Delhi Pollution Control Committee. The annual average concentration of PM10, i.e., 222 ug/m3 in ambient air in Delhi is above the notified standards (norm-60 ug/m3) in year 2011 due to, inter alia, construction activities, industries, aviation sector and vehicular pollution. Also, the levels of PM10 are more in Delhi due to geo-climatic conditions and its proximity to Thardesert. The annual average levels of Sulphur Dioxide (norm-50 ug/m3) are well within the limits and levels of NO2 i.e. 61 ug/m3 (norm-40 ug/m3) are exceeding the standards. Nitrogen Dioxide is an emerging air pollutant in Delhi. As far as ranking of the most polluted cities in a countryis concerned, there is no standard methodology to rank the most polluted city. However, various organizations have come out with their own ranking of most polluted cities based on different pollutants with varying objectives. (b). As per information provided by PWD Delhi, the PWD never removes the fully grown up trees. Trees are cut for public project(s) only when no other alternative is available. Permission is obtained from the Forest Department invariably before felling of trees. Ten compensatory trees are planted for each tree cut. (c). Various steps taken by the Government to minimize pollution level in Delhi, inter alia, include mandatory use of natural gas for public transport, metro rail system as means of public transport, implementation of BS IV emission norms for four wheelers and BS III for two/three wheelers, supply of cleaner fuel as per Auto Fuel Policy, closure of coal based Indraprastha Thermal Power Plant, use of beneficiated coal at Rajghat and Badarpur Thermal Power Plants, enforcement of ‘Pollution Under Control’ (PUC) certificate scheme for in-use vehicles, etc. Apart from compensatory plantation, the trees which are required to be cut would not include the rare or endangered species of trees. PWD has a separate wing of horticulture for plantation in area falling in PWD’s Jurisdiction in Delhi. PROJECTS RELATING TO STATE FOREST DEVELOPMENT AGENCY 8th August, 2013 RSQ 486 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that while sanctioning the project relating to State Forest Development Agency from Gujarat State, Government has not sanctioned any amount towards the advance action work for taking up afforestation during 2010-11, Monsoon;

(b) at present, how many proposals related to State Forest Development Agency are pending with Government and the reasons therefor; and

(c) by what time the proposals are likely to be sanctioned? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) A consolidated proposal under the National Afforestation Programme Scheme was submitted by the State Forest Development Agency (SFDA), Gujarat to the Union Government for the year 2010-11 which has been sanctioned for Rs. 33.00 Cr. including the cost of advance action work for 1760 hectare area, to be afforested during the monsoon season. (b) No proposal related to Gujarat State Forest Development Agency is pending with the Union Government at present. (c) Does not arise. DEMAND OF NTFPS 8th August, 2013 RSQ 487 SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is fact that around 27 percent of the total population residing in marginal areas depend on NTFPs (Non- Timber Forest Products) for subsistence;

(b) whether India has not been able to meet the current international demand of NTFP and NTFP-based health care products; if so, the reasons therefor;

(c) whether Government has analysed the need for a concrete policy formulation with respect to Herbal raw material supply chain to industries, settlement between the Forest Department and the local communities, particularly after PESA and FRA, conservation and regeneration of NTFP species etc.; if so, the details thereof; and

(d) the measures taken by Government with respect to NTFPs? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes, Sir. As per Report of the Sub-Group-II on NTFP and their Sustainable Management in the 12th Five Year Plan (September 2011) submitted by Ministry of Environment & Forests, it is estimated that 275 million poor rural people in India i.e. 27 percent of the total population depend on NTFPs for atleast part of their subsistence and cash livelihoods. (b) No, Sir. As per Report of the Sub-Group-II on NTFP and their Sustainable Management in the 12th Five Year Plan, India stood 3rd among the biggest exporter of medicinal plants during 2009 with an export of US$ 105.91 million after Canada (US$224.73 million) and China (US$ 193.33 million) respectively. (c) Yes, Sir. The Government has set up National Medicinal Plants Board under Department of AYUSH, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare vide resolution notified on 24th November, 2000 to look after policy formulation, coordination with Ministries/Departments/Organisations/State/UT Government to ensure sustained availability of Medicinal Plants and for overall development of this sector. The National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) has been implementing a Central Sector Scheme namely “Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants”. The scheme envisages providing of assistance for various promotional activities including in-situ/ex-situ conservation/resource augmentation of RET (Rare/Endangered/Threatened) and prioritized species in high demand of medicinal plants including NTFP also.

To ensure supply chain to industries for medicinal herbal raw material, a provision for backward-forward linkages is built in the present strategy as Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) are supported to undertake the value addition to medicinal herbal raw material in conjunction with herbal industries. Accordingly, 142 Joint Forest management Committees (JFMCs) were supported for value addition of medicinal plants, capacity building, setting up of godowns, drying sheds etc. During the 11th Five Year Plan and last financial year, assistance has also been provided by NMPB for setting up of 297 Herbal Gardens, 1657 School Herbal Gardens and 12082 Home Herbal Gardens in different states under the promotion components of the scheme. (d) The Ministry of Tribal Affairs administers one Central Sector Scheme namely ‘Grants- in- Aid to State Tribal Development Cooperative Corporations etc. (STDCCs) for Minor Forest Produce (MFP) Operations’ which covers regulation of trade of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) also known as Non Timber Forest Produce (NTFP). Grant is given to the State Tribal Development Corporative Corporations (STDCCs)/Forest Development Corporations (FDCs) etc. through their respective State Governments for:

(i) increasing the quantum of MFP handled by setting off operational losses, if need be; (ii) setting up of scientific ware housing facilities, wherever necessary; (iii) establishing processing industries for value addition with the objective of ensuring maximum returns

on the MFPs for the tribals; (iv) supplementing Research and Development (R&D) efforts;

The Government of India has approved the Scheme of ‘Introduction of Mechanism for Marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) through Minimum Support Price (MSP)’. The Scheme is being implemented in States with Schedule Areas and Schedule Tribes population in accordance with the Vth Schedule of Constitution of India. These States include Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Gujarat. The Scheme covers 12 items namely (i) Tendu (ii) Bamboo (iii) Mahuwa Seed (iv) Sal Leaf (v) Sal Seed (vi) Lac (vii) Chironjee (viii) Wild Honey (ix) Myrobalan (x) Tamarind (xi) Gums (Gum Karaya) (xii) Karanj. Any MFP out of these twelve will be qualified to be covered under the Scheme provided it has not been nationalised by the State Government concerned. BIO-DIVERSITY AWARENESS 8th August, 2013 RSQ 488 SHRI M OHD. ALI KHAN: SMT T. RATNA BAI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is ready to contribute in bio-diversity awareness by spending about more than Rs. 100 crore every year on bio-diversity related and research activities; and

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise in the Twelfth Plan period? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIORNMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) No, Sir. (b) Does not arise. IDENTIFICATION OF FOREST MEDICINAL PLANTS

8th April, 2013 RSQ 489 SHRI ISHWARLALSHANKARLAL JAIN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has explored/identified all the forest medicinal plants which grow/found on hills, and in forests and jungles of the country;

(b) if so, the location-wise, hilly area-wise, forest-wise details of all those herbs and medicinal plants found therein;

(c) whether there are some poisonous plants in some hilly areas and forests whose touch may faint human beings and animals; if so, the details thereof; and

(d) whether such poisonous plants have been identified and the details of the placeswhere all such hills and forests having such plants are located and the steps taken by Government for protection from them?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b): Botanical Survey of India (BSI) has the mandate of surveying the plant diversity, including medicinal plants of the country.According to BSI,it has so farexplored almost 70% of the geographic area in the country.However, many species of plants are yet to be explored, identifiedand described. Further, it is estimated that around 8000 species of medicinal and herbal plants are found in the country, which grow on hills and in forests/jungles of India which are used as herbal remedies for a variety of ailments under different systems of medicine. The diverse species of Indian medicinal plants occur in10 different bio-geographic zones, as given in the table below:

TABLE : MEDICINALPLANT DIVERSITY IN DIFFERENT BIOGEOGRAPHIC ZONES OF INDIA Biogeographic Zones Approximate number of medicinal plantspecies

Trans Himalaya 700 Himalaya 2500

Desert 500 Semi-Arid 1000

Western Ghats 2000 Deccan Peninsula 3000

Gangetic Plain 1000 North-East 2000

Islands 1000 Coasts 500

Source: Foundation for Revitalisation of Local Health Tradtitions, Bengaluru (c)and(d): According to BSI, as such there are no poisonous plants on record, whose touch may faint human beings and animals. Further, to spread awareness on poisonous medicinal plants, BSI in 1985, published a book entitled ‘Selected Poisonous Plants from the Tribal Areas of India’. FUNDS ALLOCATED AND SPENT IN ANDHRA PRADESH 8th August, 2013 RSQ 490 SHRI C.M. RAMESH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the funds allocated and spent in Andhra Pradesh by the Ministry and its various

organisations during the last five years and the current year, so far; (b) the details of purpose for which these funds were given and spent; and (c) the steps being taken to increase the allocation of funds?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b) & (c): In conformity with the vision, mission and objectives of the Government for protection of environment, various schemes and projects supported by legislative, administrative and regulatory measures are being implemented including through the Ministry of Environment & Forests and its attached offices, autonomous organizations and other bodies. For discharging its functional responsibilities, the Ministry has created suitable institutional infrastructure at the national, regional, and State level in the form of six Regional Offices, National Biodiversity Authority, Central Zoo Authority, Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, National Tiger Conservation Authority, Animal Welfare Board of India, State Departments of Environment and Forest, Central Pollution Control Board, State Pollution Control Boards/ Pollution Control Committees, and various environmental research institutions/ organizations, etc. The Ministry also provides funding to various States and Union Territories, including Andhra Pradesh, under various Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes. The details of the Plan funds released to Andhra Pradesh under various schemes for protection of the environment during the last five years and the current year are shown at Annex. In order to improve upon the final outcomes, the Ministry has undertaken a number of policy initiatives which include public-private-partnership, alternate delivery mechanism, social and gender empowerment process. Annex referred to in the reply to Parts (a), (b) and (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 490 regarding “Funds allocated and spent in Andhra Pradesh” by Shri C.M. Ramesh due for answer on 08.08.2013. Releases to Andhra Pradesh under Centrally Sponsored Schemes/ Other Programmes for the Protection of Environment.

(� crore) Sl. No.

State / Scheme 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14**

1 Conservation & Management of Mangroves & Coral Reefs*

- - 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

2 Conservation and Management of Wetlands* - - 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 3 Wetlands, Mangroves and Coral Reefs# 0.47 1.26 - - - - 5 National Lake Conservation Plan 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.90 0.00 0.00 6 National River Conservation Plan 25.38 36.89 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 8 National Afforestation Programme 11.54 11.03 10.48 15.15 2.71 3.75 9 Green India Mission 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.90 0.00 0.00 10 Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats 0.92 1.02 0.64 0.71 1.80 0.00 11 Project Elephant 0.45 0.18 0.15 0.00 0.11 0.00 12 Project Tiger 0.57 1.38 1.56 1.54 4.05 1.21 13 Intensification of Forest Management Scheme 2.7 0.00 1.36 0.00 0.00 0.38 14 National Green Corps Programme 1.57 1.57 1.57 1.57 1.57 1.57 15 National Environment Awareness Campaign 0.44 0.56 0.67 0.69 0.76 0.00

* Programme was started in 2010-11. # Programme was discontinued after 2009-10. ** As on 31.07.2013. PROJECTS CLEARED BY FOREST ADVISORY COMMITTEE 8th August, 2013 RSQ 491

SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Forest Advisory Committee has cleared several projects it had earlier rejected for falling foul of green regulations or being too damaging to environment, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) whether it is also a fact that many such proposals are still pending with the Forest Advisory Committee for approval, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (FC Act) for diversion of more than forty hectares of forest land, along with site inspection report, wherever required, are referred to the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) for its advice. In some of the proposals where FAC tendered advise to decline approval under the FC Act for diversion of forest land, concerned State Governments or the user agencies submitted representations containing detailed justification for reconsideration along with comments on the grounds on which FAC recommended to decline approval under the FC Act to these proposals. FAC after examination of representations, recommended to accord approval under the FC Act to some of these proposals which were initially recommended for rejection. Details of proposals, where FAC, in modification of its earlier recommendation, recommended grant of approval under the FC Act during the year 2013 are as below:

(i) Diversion of 999.328 hectares of forest land in Raigad Forest Division No. 2 for drinking water supply project on Kalu River by Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation in District, Thane, Maharashtra.

(ii) Diversion of 3.0825 hectares (originally 67.725 hectares) of forest land in favour of the Public Works Department, Uttarakhand for construction of two lane road from Baniyawala to Thano-Raipur- Sahastradhara.

(iii) Diversion of 258.867 hectares of forest land in favour of M/s. Jaiprakash Associates Limited for their Hinauti Extension limestone mining project in compartment No. 752 and 753 of Govindgarh Reserved Forest in district Satna, Madhya Pradesh.

(b) Revised proposal along with representation from the Government of Madhya Pradesh to reconsider decision of the Central Government, based on recommendation of the FAC, to decline prior approval of Central Government under the FC Act for diversion of 154.91 hectares of forest land in favour of Water Resources Department, Madhya Pradesh for construction of Runjh Medium Irrigation Project in Panna District, Madhya Pradesh has been referred to Forest Advisory Committee for its consideration in next meeting. PENDING PROJECTS FOR FOREST CLEARANCES 8th August, 2013 RSQ 492 DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) The number of projects that are pending in the Ministry for forest clearance and the policy in place in this regard;

(b) The major issues due to which projects are pending in the Ministry for forest clearances; and (c) The number of industrial and infrastructure projects pending in the last 3 years for forest clearance and

the issues pending to be sorted out by the Ministry with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) At present there are 282 proposals, comprising of 117 proposals above 40 ha and 165 below 40 ha category, under consideration in the Ministry for clearance under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The proposals seeking prior approval of the Central Government for use of forest land for non-forestry purposes are examined in accordance with the provisions given under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and Rules and Guidelines framed thereunder. The forest clearance to proposals received in the MoEF under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for forest clearance is a continuing process. (b) The main reasons for pendency of the proposals are as follows:

i) Detailed Site Inspection by Regional Offices of the MoEF is required in proposals involving more than 100 ha of forest land.

ii) Quite often, the proposals received are not complete in all respects and the Central Government has to seek further details/documents from the concerned State Governments.

(c) At present there are 128 proposals pertaining to infrastructure, comprising of 44 proposal above 40 ha and 84 below 40 ha category, under consideration in the Ministry. Presently, there are no pending issues to be sorted out by the Ministry of Environment and Forests with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. FOREST ENCROACHMENT ACROSS THE COUNTRY 8th August, 2013` RSQ 493 DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that forest encroachment is increasing in the country rampantly, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether it is a fact that Forest regions are disappearing due to heavy industrialisation in the country, if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps being taken by Government to safeguard the forest regions in the country? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Encroachment on forest land is not increasing rampantly in the country. However, there are encroachments on forest land by individuals including local tribes for the purpose of agriculture. State-wise extent of encroachment of forest land as reported by State/UTs is annexed. (b) Heavy industrialization may have impact on the forest cover but due to sustainable forest management efforts, the forest cover of the country has registered an increase from 20.60% to 21.05% of the geographical area as per State of Forest Report (SFR) pertaining to the year 2005 and 2011 respectively. (c) Ministry of Environment & Forests provides Grants-in-aid to State Governments under Intensification of Forest Management Scheme. The aim of the Scheme is to supplement the efforts of the States for forest protection. Funds under the Scheme are utilized for patrolling of the forests, establishment of camps, building fire watch towers, creation and maintenance of fire line, forest fire control, survey and demarcation of forest areas and strengthening of forest infrastructure etc. Funds are also allotted under CAMPA to State/UTs for forest protection. In addition funds are given under National Afforestation Programme and 13th Finance Commission for afforestation and improvement of degraded forest land with the purpose of increasing forest and tree cover and providing livelihood support to forest dependent communities. As per the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 no diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes can be done without the prior approval of the Government of India. Government has also enacted Forest Rights Act, 2006 with the purpose of recognising the traditional forest rights of Scheduled tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers.

ANNEXURE ANNEXURE REFFERED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 493 BY DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU REGARDING “FOREST ENCROACHMENT ACROSS THE COUNTRY” DUE FOR REPLY ON 08.08.2013

S. No. Name of States/UTs Area Under Encroachment (in ha.) As on (Date) 1 Andhra Pradesh 2,57,000.00 27.07.2011 2 Bihar 356.00 16.02.2013 3 Chhattisgarh 1,18,494.60 07.03.2011 4 Gujarat 34,791.00 19.03.2011 5 Goa Nil 25.02.2013 6 Haryana 184.63 20.07.2011 7 Himachal Pradesh 4,600.00 21.08.2012 8 Jharkhand 27,360.21 31.07.2012 9 Jammu & Kashmir 13,360.09 17.10.2012 10 Karnataka 1,15,648.23 14.03.2011 11 Kerala 41,063.30 27.02.2012 12 Madhya Pradesh 4,87,438.47 19.10.2011 13 Maharashtra 1,83,171.80 09.08.2011 14 Orissa 78,505.08 22.07.2011 15 Punjab 7,404.00 31.01.2011 16 Rajasthan 31,659.53 31.03.2011 17 Tamil Nadu 15,320.37 31.03.2012 18 Uttar Pradesh 26,831.10 15.02.2013 19 Uttarakhand 9,676.00 31.03.2010 20 West Bengal 12,660.97 31.03.2010 21 Arunachal Pradesh 58,553.07 04.03.2011 22 Assam 3,30,400.00 11.09.2012 23 Manipur 1,918.37 10.04.2012 24 Meghalaya 9,378.00 12.03.2011 25 Mizoram 23,933.12 08.04.2011 26 Nagaland 8721.86 26.07.2011 27 Sikkim 3,232.87 13.03.2012 28 Tripura 47,758.14 16.03.2011 29 A & N Islands 3,326.63 10.03.2011 30 Chandigarh 14.00 11.03.2011 31 D&N Haveli 613.30 29.04.2011 32 Daman & Diu 87.83 28.09.2010 33 Lakshadweep Nil 28.08.2010 34 New Delhi 629.51 11.04.2012 35 Puducherry Nil 21.10.2010

Grand Total 19,54,092.08 PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION OF WILD ANIMALS 8th August, 2013 RSQ 494 SHRI NAND KUMAR SAI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has included wild animals in Schedule 1 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 in the recent past, if so, the details in this regard;

(b) the details of the punishments available for violation of provisions; (c) whether Government has taken any measures for protection and conservation of wild animals in the

country, if so, the details in this regard; and (d) the number of persons arrested and punished for violations of such rules/act during each of the last

three years in various States?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) No wild animal has been included in the Schedule-1 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 in the last ten years. (b) The Wildlife Act prescribes stringent punishment for violation of its provisions, which are as follows:

i) For hunting and illegal trade in wild animals belonging to Schedule I and Part II of Schedule II and hunting in a Sanctuary or a National Park or altering the boundaries of a Sanctuary or a National Park– Minimum 3 years imprisonment extendable to 7 years and a minimum fine of Rs 10,000/-. For cases relating to second offence – imprisonment not less than 3 years and extendable up to seven years and also with a fine not less than Rs 25,000/-

ii) Contravention of any provisions of Chapter V A of the Act- imprisonment for term not less than three years and extendable up to seven years and also with fine not less than ten thousand rupees.

iii) For offences in relation to zoos (Section 38 J),- imprisonment for up to six months or a fine of up to Rs. 2,000/- or with both. For second or subsequent offence- imprisonment upto one year or fine up to five thousand rupees.

iv) For offences relating to core area of tiger reserve or hunting in the tiger reserve or altering the boundaries of the tiger reserve- imprisonment for a term not less than three years extendable to seven years and also with fine not less than Rs. 50,000/- extendable up to Rs.2.00 lakhs. For second or subsequent offence- imprisonment for not less than seven years and also with a fine not less than Rs.5.00 lakhs extendable to Rs.50.00 lakhs.

v) There is also a provision for forfeiture of property of offenders who are awarded sentence of 3 years or more of imprisonment.

(c) The important steps taken by the Government for protection and conservation of wild animals include:

i. Endangered species of animals including Tiger, Elephant, Lion, Rhino, etc are listed under Schedule –I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 thereby according them highest degree of protection.

ii. Legal protection has been provided to wild animals against hunting and commercial exploitation under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

iii. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, has been amended and made more stringent. The punishments for offences have been enhanced. The Act also provides for forfeiture of any equipment, vehicle or weapon that is used for committing wildlife offence(s).

iv. Protected Areas, viz., National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves covering important wildlife habitats have been created all over the country under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to conserve wild animals and their habitats.


vi. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been empowered under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972

to apprehend and prosecute wildlife offenders. vii. The State/Union Territory Governments have been requested to strengthen the field formations and

intensify patrolling in and around the Protected Areas. viii. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to strengthen the enforcement of law for control of

poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products. (d) The responsibility of management and protection of forests and wildlife and dealing with the cases of violations of forest/wildlife Acts and Rules is vested with the State/Union Territory Governments. The details of persons arrested and punished for violations of the Act, are not compiled at the level of the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR MINING 8th August, 2013 RSQ 495 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that large area of forest land in the country has been diverted for mining purposes resulting in ecological imbalance;

(b) if so, the details of forest land diverted for mining purposes in the country during the last three years, State-wise ; and

(c) the steps being taken by Government to stop diversion of forest land for mining purposes? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) Central Government during last three years and current year(1.1.2010 to 31.7.13) accorded 282 approvals under Forest (Conservation)Act, 1980 for diversion of 52427.40 hectare of Forest land for mining purposes. The details of forest land diverted for mining in the country during last three years state wise is enclosed as Annexure A. To mitigate impacts of diversion of forest land for mining projects on ecology and environment, Central Government while according approvals under the Forest (Conservation)Act, 1980 stipulates appropriate conditions, such as creation and maintenance of compensatory Afforestation, implementation of wildlife conservation plan and realization of Net Present Value(NPV) of the diverted forest land from the user agency for conservation, protection and development of forests and wildlife. ( c ) To facilitate scrutiny of the proposals seeking prior approval of the Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 in an effective manner, an elaborate institutional mechanism, both at the Central as well as State/Union Territory Governments level has been set up. The proposals seeking diversion of forest land for mining projects are examined most carefully and only those proposals where diversion of forest land is bare minimum and unavoidable are accepted by the Central Government.

Annexure –A STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) AND (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 495 BY SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA REGARDING ‘DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR MINING’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 08.08.2013. DETAILS OF FOREST AREA DIVERTED FOR MINING PURPOSES IN THE COUNTRY (AREA IN HA) Sl. No.

Year 2010 2011 2012 2013 Total State / Union Territory

No. of proposals

Area Diverted

No. of proposals

Area Diverted

No. of proposals

Area Diverted

No. of proposals

Area Diverted

No. of proposals

Area Diverted

1 Andaman & Nicobar Island

0 0 0 0 1 3.1 0 0 1 3.1

2 Andhra Pradesh 10 698 14 1819.1 10 714.1 8 1689.7 42 4920.9

3 Arunachal Pradesh 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1

4 Assam 0 0 2 2 0 0 2 307 4 309 5 Bihar 3 11.6 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 11.6 6 Chandigarh 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 Chhattisgarh 8 3325.8 6 2852.7 4 2580.3 4 2321.1 22 11079.8

8 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

9 Daman & 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Diu 10 Delhi 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 Goa 6 239 1 81.4 0 0 0 0 7 320.4 12 Gujarat 1 60.7 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 60.7 13 Haryana 0 0 0 0 1 0.1 0 0 1 0.1

14 Himachal Pradesh 6 7.5 5 2.7 1 239.5 0 0 12 249.7

15 Jammu & Kashmir 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

16 Jharkhand 21 3690 13 2330.1 10 2170.9 12 2997.5 56 11188.4 17 Karnataka 9 682.5 1 0.4 2 4.6 0 0 12 687.5 18 Kerala 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

19 Lakshadweep 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

20 Madhya Pradesh 14 1731.3 10 461.8 12 4057.6 7 3344.3 43 9595.7

21 Maharashtra 3 47.8 6 237.1 2 511.8 1 44.3 12 840.9 22 Manipur 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 23 Meghalaya 0 0 0 0 2 264.4 0 0 2 264.4 24 Mizoram 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 25 Nagaland 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 26 Odisha 10 929.9 18 3449.4 14 1762.7 5 4265.5 47 10407.4 27 Puducherry 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 28 Punjab 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 29 Rajasthan 0 0 1 59.7 1 64 1 114.3 3 238 30 Sikkim 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 31 Tamil Nadu 0 0 0 0 1 12.4 0 0 1 12.4 32 Tripura 3 2.4 3 11.1 0 0 0 0 6 13.6 33 Uttar Pradesh 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 34 Uttarakhand 0 0 1 21.6 0 0 4 2197 5 2218.6 35 West Bengal 0 0 1 4.9 0 0 0 0 1 4.9 Total 95 11427.5 82 11334 61 12385.5 44 17280.7 282 52427.4

TIGRESS T17 OF RANTHAMBHORE 8th August, 2013 RSQ 496 SMT JAYA BACHCHAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the famous Tigress of Ranthambhore, T17, which had vanished without a trace in April is now presumed dead;

(b) whether it is also a fact that this was due to the negligence of the forest department; (c) whether it is a fact that many more tigers/tigresses died here due to unnatural circumstances or remain

untraceable; and (d) the action that the Ministry has taken or proposes to take to tackle this situation, and the details,

State/Sanctuary-wise, where similar incidents have taken place? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) As reported by the State, the tigress (T17) is not seen, though no categorical evidence relating to its death could be established. (b) & (c) No Sir. As informed by the State, tiger mortality has been observed in Ranthambhore due to internecine fights, revenge killing or old age. The movement of tigers from their natal area has also been reported based on monitoring.

(d) Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, funding support is provided to States for tiger monitoring using camera traps. Further, in several reserves including Ranthambhore, technical / financial assistance is also provided for tiger monitoring using radio telemetry. The National Tiger Conservation Authority provides grants to several States for monitoring tigers in areas outside tiger reserves, besides supporting active management for translocation of tigers to suitable habitats. Several advisories / Standard Operating Procedures have been issued in this context. Movement of tiger from their source areas has been reported from several places like Tadoba (Maharashtra), Panna (Madhya Pradesh), Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh) and Sundarbans (West Bengal). DEATH OF WILD ANIMALS IN PROTECTED AREAS 8th August, 2013 RSQ 497 SHRI N. BALAGANGA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the number of cases of deaths of wild animals in protected areas and sanctuaries has been on the rise during the last two years, if so, the details thereof, year-wise, sanctuary-wise;

(b) whether Government has assessed the reasons for their untimely and unnatural deaths, including poaching, if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the action taken by Government to protect them and to punish the poachers? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The management and protection of wild animals in National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in the country is looked after by the concerned State/Union Territory Governments. Year-wise and State-wise details of death of wild animals in Wildlife Sanctuaries are not collated in the Ministry. The major reasons for death of animals in Wildlife Sanctuaries include natural deaths, predation, infighting among competing individuals of the same species, accidental deaths, poaching etc. (c) The Central Government has taken the following steps for protection of wild animals in such sanctuaries:







vii. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to strengthen the enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.


INCREASE IN TEMPERATURE AT GLOBAL LEVEL 8th August, 2013 RSQ 498 SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that an average increase of 4 degree in temperature at global level is being estimated, if so, the reaction of Government thereto;

(b) whether such increase in temperature is being estimated in India also; and (c) if so, the quantum thereof along with the negative impact of the same being assessed to fall upon

Indian citizens and agriculture? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The World Bank report titled “Turn Down the Heat: Why a 40C Warmer World Must be Avoided” published in November, 2012, estimates that the global average temperature may rise by 40C by 2100. Prior to this, recognising the challenges of Climate Change, National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released on June 30, 2008 that outlines eight National missions and 24 other initiatives in specific areas of solar energy, enhanced energy efficiency, sustainable habitat, water, sustaining Himalayan ecosystems, green India, sustainable agriculture and strategic knowledge for climate change. State Governments have also been requested to prepare the State Action Plan on Climate Change to address State specific issues. Global response to the challenge is being shaped through negotiations under United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), where India is actively participating. (b) and (c) India’s Second National Communication submitted to the UNFCCC in May, 2012 projected that the annual mean surface air temperature of the Country may range from 3.5°C to 4.3°C by the end of the century and is likely to have negative impacts on agriculture productivity, and may cause spread of Malaria in new areas, having adverse impacts on human life. NUMBER OF TIGERS IN COUNTRY 8th August, 2013` RSQ 499 DR. BHALCHANDRA MUNGEKAR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the information of the number of tigers in the country during 2010-11, 2011-12 and 2012-13; (b) the number of tigers that have died by natural death and the number of tigers that have died due to

poaching; and (c) the action that the Ministry has taken against the poachers?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The country level tiger population, assessed once in every four years using the refined methodology, has shown an increasing trend with a population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively, in the recent assessment of 2010, as compared to the last country level assessment of 2006, with an estimate of 1411,

lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. The details of tiger estimation for the years 2006 and 2010 are at Annexure-I. (b) The details of tiger mortality, as reported by States, during the last three years and current year are at Annexure-II. (c) Implementation of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for action against poachers / offenders is done by States as a part of their day to day management, and such information is not collated at the Government of India level.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 499 ON NUMBER OF TIGERS IN COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 08.08.2013. Details of tiger population for the years 2006 and 2010





Estimate (Number)




297 259 335 353

320 388 Stable




601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable


402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase







100

84 118 148

118 178 Increase


64 90 Could not be compared since it was not assessed

in 2006. TOTAL 1411 1165 1657 1706 1520 1909 *** Statistical lower / upper limits could not be ascertained owing to small size of the population.

Annexure-II ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 499 ON NUMBER OF TIGERS IN COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 08.08.2013. Details of tiger mortality, as reported by the States, for the last three years and current year

Year Natural and other causes (Animals)

Poaching including seizure (Animals)

Cases under scrutiny Total (Animals)

2010 25 28 - 53 2011 40 16 - 56 2012 29 33 27 89 2013

(as on 25.07.2013) 6 8 36 50

REASONS FOR THE DEATH OF ROYAL BENGAL TIGERS 8th August, 2013 RSQ 500 SHRI D.P. TRIPATHI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether a number of Royal Bengal Tigers and other animals have been reported dead and killed in Sundorbon Forest, West Bengal in the last five years, and the details of cause of their deaths?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The mortality details of tiger and other wild animals in the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, during last five years, as reported by the State, are at Annexure-I.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 500 ON REASONS FOR THE DEATH OF ROYAL BENGAL TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 08.08.2013. 1. Details of tiger mortality during the last five years, as reported by the State Year Date of incidence Reasons for death 2008-09 6.10.2008 Wounds 2009-10 No death reported 2010-11 No death reported 2011-12 9.8.2011 Inter-specific fight 2012-13 5.6.2012 Drowning during high tide

10.6.2012 Cardiac failure 10.3.2013 Multiple organ failure

2. Details of mortality of other wild animals, during the last five years, as reported by the State

2008-09 Spotted Deer 2 Dolphin 1

Olive Ridley Turtle 3

(All deaths are reported natural)

Otter 1 Mongoose 1

2009-10 Spotted Deer 6 Jungle Cat 1 Wild Boar 3 Civet 1 Olive Ridley Turtle 1 Rhesus Macaque 1

2010-11 Spotted Deer 2 Civet 1

2011-12 Spotted Deer 2 Olive Ridley Turtle 2 Crocodile 1 Crescent Serpent Eagle 1

2012-13 Spotted Deer 4 Olive Ridley Turtle 6 Jungle Cat 1 Gangetic Dolphin 1 Irawadi Dolphin 1 Rhesus Monkey 3 Estuarine Crocodile 2 Water Monitor Lizard 1

CRITERIA FOR CLEARANCE OF PROJECTS 8th August, 2013 RSQ 501 SMT WANSUK SYIEM: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether India is yet to evolve a uniformly enforceable criteria for clearance of projects likely to impact the environmental balance; and

(b) whether environmental clearance for each project is accorded on a stand-alone case-to-case basis rather than subjecting them to a broadly laid-down set of mandatory bench-marks, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 as amended from time to time, prescribes the procedure for grant of prior environment clearance in respect of projects or activities stated in the Schedule to the Notification. Each project or activity, requiring prior environment clearance under this Notification, has to follow the prescribed procedure for obtaining the clearance. DAM CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS 8th August, 2013 RSQ 502 SMT MAYA SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of dam construction projects and hydro power projects sanctioned by the Ministry for power generation in various parts of the country including Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh during the last five years;

(b) whether Ministry conducts any investigation on its part before giving sanction to any project to ascertain the possible effects of the concerned project on environment; and

(c) the mechanism adopted by the Ministry to combat the adverse impact of project post its permission, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Fifty one (51) Hydropower and River Valley projects comprising dams/barrages have been granted environmental clearance (EC) during the last 5 years in the country including Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. (b) The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 provides detailed procedure & methodologies to be followed for considering proposals and granting environmental clearance to various developmental projects including Hydropower projects. Among other things, scientific investigation and detailed Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Studies are carried-out, Public Hearing conducted and an Environment Management Plan (EMP) is formulated to address various concerns arising out of such projects. (c ) The Ministry of Environment & Forests regularly and periodically monitors the compliance of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) provisions and other associated issues. Any violation is dealt with in accordance with the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. STUDY TO ASCERTAIN THE REASONS FOR DAMAGE IN UTTARAKHAND 8th August, 2013 RSQ 503 SHRI SANJAY RAUT: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the early monsoon rain has led to a colossal damage of property and deaths of many people in Uttarakhand; and

(b) if so, whether Government has made any study to ascertain whether it was due to climate change or due to construction of irrigation projects by China in the Himalayas?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The heavy rains (12-24cm in a day) in the entire region starting from June 14, 2013 lasted for four days in Uttarakhand. The colossal damage of property and deaths of many people in Uttarakhand are not due to heavy rains only. The combined effect of very heavy rainfall, heavy snowmelt and breaching of the Chaurabari lake in the upstream resulted in a gushing outflow with large amounts of debris which caused damage of property and loss of life in Uttarakhand, more so in Kedarnath. (b) No study has been conducted. PENDING DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS OF INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS 8th August, 2013 RSQ 504

SMT T. RATNA BAI: SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that due to pending environmental clearance the development projects of some International Airports, a green field projects, are pending with Government; and

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise, and the present status thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) As on date, 3 numbers of Airport projects including two Green Field Airports are awaiting environment clearance. Details alongwith the status are given in the Annexure.

Annexure S. No. State Name of the Project Status 1 Kerala Development of Airport at

Mallappuzhasserry, Aranmula Kerala by M/s KGS Aranmula Airport Ltd.

The proposal for development of Airport at Mallappuzhasserry, Aranmula and Kidangannur villages, Kozhencherry Taluk, Patthanamthitta District, Kerala on a plot area of 500 Acres was considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) in its meeting held on 21st – 23rd September, 2010 and the Committee finalized ToRs including Public Hearing. ToRs for the project were accorded on 13.10.2010. Public Hearing was conducted on 10.05.2011 at Pathanamthitta District Collectorate. The project along with final EIA report and public hearing proceedings was again considered by the EAC in its meetings held on 21st–23rd September, 2011, 15th – 16th December, 2011 and 16th –17th August, 2012. The EAC, after due consideration of the relevant documents submitted by the project proponent and additional clarifications furnished in response to its observations, recommended the project for grant of Environment Clearance. However clearance to the above Airport was not granted in view of the various representations received against the project alleging inclusion of large extent of wetlands and paddy fields in the project area.

2 Maharashtra Development of Birsi Airport Gondia, Maharashtra by M/s Airport Authority of India.

The project was placed before the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) in April, 2013 and May, 2013. The EAC deferred the project since the project proponent did not attend the meeting.

3 Kerala Construction of New International Arrival Block at Calicut Airport, Kerala by M/s KITCO Ltd.

Proposal was received only on 9.07.2013 and as per procedure, it is to be placed before the Expert Appraisal Committee.

STEPS TAKEN TO MAKE YAMUNA RIVER POLLUTION FREE 8th August, 2013 RSQ 505 SMT T. RATNA BAI: SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has taken the steps for making the Yamuna river pollution free; and (b) if so, the details thereof and the allocation and spending of money during the Eleventh and Twelfth

Plan period, year-wise, the present status thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) & (b) The Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna by providing financial assistance to Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) in a phased manner since 1993. The works taken up under YAP on a cost sharing basis between the Central and State Governments relate to sewerage/interception and diversion of drains, sewage treatment plants (STPs), low cost sanitation/community toilet complexes, electric/improved wood crematoria, etc. Under Phase-I and II of YAP, a total of 296 schemes, including 40 sewage treatment plants, have been completed in 21 towns of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi. Sewage treatment capacity of 902.25 million litres per day (mld) has been created under these two phases of YAP. The Yamuna Action Plan Phase – III project for Delhi has been approved by the Ministry at an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore for rehabilitation of existing STPs and sewerage system as well as public participation and awareness programme. Besides, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry at an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore for taking up works relating to construction of new STPs, rehabilitation of existing STPs, laying and rehabilitation of sewerage system, public participation and awareness programme for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana. Details of funds released by this Ministry and expenditure incurred by the States (including State share) for implementation of sanctioned projects under YAP are as follows: S.No. Year Funds released by Government of India (Rs.

Lakhs) Total Expenditure incurred, including State share (Rs. Lakhs)

XI Five Year Plan 1 2007-08 3714.43 5747.37 2 2008-09 10500.00 11951.86 3 2009-10 10499.69 15245.26 4 2010-11 11148.78 19796.86 5 2011-12 4705.82 14675.11

XII Five Year Plan 6 2012-13 4183.62 8296.72

In addition, State Governments, apart from their own budgetary allocations, are also accessing financial assistance for creation of sewerage infrastructure, including setting up of sewage treatment plants, in various towns under other Central sector schemes like JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) and UIDSSMT (Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) of Ministry of Urban Development. REASONS FOR DELAY IN REFUNDING DEPOSITED AMOUNT IN CAMPA FUNDS 22nd August, 2013 RSQ *195 SHRI JAGAT PRAKASH NADDA : Will the Minister of Environment and Forests be pleased to state : Whether any request has been received from the State Government of Himachal Pradesh for the refund of crores of rupees deposited inadvertently in Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) funds, and if so, the details thereof; and The reasons for delay in refunding the deposited amount to the State Government? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATRAJAN) (a) & (b) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in the reply to Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.195 by Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, answered on 22nd August 2013, regarding ‘Reasons for delay in refunding deposited amount in CAMPA funds’.

& (b) Yes, Sir. Following the requests received from the Government of Himachal Pradesh, a meeting was convened on 12th November 2010 in the Ministry of Environment and Forests, in which officers of the Government of Himachal Pradesh also participated, to discuss the issue whether the ‘cost of trees’ of Rs.240 crores, which the Ministry of Defence (DRDO) had paid into the Himachal Pradesh State CAMPA account maintained by the Ad-hoc CAMPA, on account of diversion of 732.78 ha of forest land in Paonta Sahib, Distt Sirmour, Himachal Pradesh to the DRDO should be held in the CAMPA account or should be transferred to the State Government. It was decided that the funds which accrued to the State at the cost of forest ecology should form part of the CAMPA funds which are being retained as a separate corpus on the basis of orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. The matter has since remained under consideration of the National CAMPA Advisory Council, who referred the issue to a High Level Committee, which included the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Himachal Pradesh as one of the Members. The recommendations of this Committee on the matter which have since been received. The issue was considered in the 24th meeting of the Ad-hoc CAMPA on 8th August 2013, and it was recommended to transfer the proceeds on account of cost of trees of the said DRDO Project to the Government of Himachal Pradesh. CATEGORIES FOR EMISSION NORMS 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 196 SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether there are any categories for emission norms devised by the Ministry; (b) the kind of companies/industries that are supposed to disclose data related to Carbon Emission; (c) the number of companies that have disclosed the data related to Carbon Emission; and (d) the details of the steps taken to keep tabs on emissions by these companies?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d): A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 196 DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.08.2013 RAISED BY SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE REGARDING ‘CATEGORIES FOR EMISSION NORMS’. (a): The Government has notified emission standards under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 in respect of 60 category of sources which include industries, processes, gensets, etc. Norms for particulate matter and relevant gaseous pollutants (Oxides of Nitrogen, Sulphur Dioxide, Hydrocarbon, etc. as relevant) are prescribed as part of emission standards. (b) & (c): India, being a non-Annex-I country under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), does not have any Green House Gas (GHG) emission reduction targets or commitments. Companies or industries in India are not required to disclose data related to carbon emissions. (d): The notified emission standards are enforced by the concerned state pollution control boards as per the provisions of Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. AFFORESTATION PROJECTS 22nd August, 2013 RSQ *200

DR. K.V.P. RAMACHANDRA RAO: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is implementing any afforestation projects, and if so, the details of the projects; (b) the details of the funds spent by Government for implementation of these projects in each State

including Andhra Pradesh; and (c) to what extent the afforestation projects have achieved their objectives?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b) and (c) A statement has been laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a), (b) and (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.200 due for reply on 22.08.2013 by DR. K.V.P. Ramachandra Rao regarding Afforestation Projects. (a) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing the National Afforestation Programme (NAP) scheme which is a 100% centrally sponsored scheme for ecorestoration of degraded forests in all the 28 states of the country through people’s participation. The scheme is implemented through the State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) at the state level, Forest Development Agency (FDA) at the forest division level and the Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at the village level. From the inception of this programme in the year 2000, Rs. 3209 crores have been released for afforestation in an area of two million hectares. (b) The statewise details of the funds released during the last three years and the current year including Andhra Pradesh is given in the Annexure. (c ) The objective of the scheme is rehabilitation of degraded forests and adjoining areas by institutionalizing decentralized/participatory forest management and supplementing livelihoods improvement process. The National Afforestation Programme scheme has been reviewed and the report submitted during 2008 interalia revealed achievement of targets of afforestation and the success of the programme in mobilising the people in protection & forest development activities. The programme has also been successful in providing employment opportunity, upliftment of rural livelihoods and reducing forest dependency among the vulnerable groups.

ANNEXURE ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 200 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 22.8.2013 REGARDING AFFORESTATION PROJECTS State-wise details of funds released under the National Afforestation Programme Scheme during the last three years and current year

(Rs in crores) S. No. State 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

till 31.7.13 1 Andhra Pradesh 10.48 15.15 2.71 3.75 2 Bihar 5.48 6.92 3.40 10.24 3 Chhattisgarh 33.25 24.74 13.33 7.75 4 Goa 0 0 0 0 5 Gujarat 29.43 27.00 14.30 11.68 6 Haryana 24.20 12.28 6.41 9.31 7 Himachal Pradesh 3.45 3.50 3.62 2.61 8 Jammu & Kashmir 3.99 6.89 3.37 8.11 9 Jharkhand 8.73 10.42 4.69 9.02

10 Karnataka 8.12 12.92 6.81 9.26 11 Kerala 7.54 2.04 11.30 6.96 12 Madhya Pradesh 30.39 21.43 9.15 15.12 13 Maharashtra 16.17 28.51 28.87 12.88

14 Orissa 11.20 7.30 3.38 5.36 15 Punjab 0 0.46 0.76 2.00 16 Rajasthan 4.94 6.23 4.14 2.81 17 Tamil Nadu 7.21 3.08 2.78 3.14 18 Uttar Pradesh 21.33 26.23 15.27 9.58 19 Uttarakhand 4.47 6.61 6.25 2.25 20 West Bengal 4.12 6.29 2.57 2.96

Total (Other States) 234.50 228.00 143.11 134.78 21 Arunachal Pradesh 5.52 0.00 1.66 0.00 22 Assam 6.08 7.95 1.47 0.00 23 Manipur 10.37 12.74 9.46 5.56 24 Meghalaya 8.79 4.31 9.10 4.50 25 Mizoram 12.21 13.44 8.78 5.58 26 Nagaland 10.11 11.69 10.88 4.91 27 Sikkim 11.99 11.18 5.42 3.77 28 Tripura 10.43 13.69 3.50 6.50

Total (NE States) 75.49 75.00 50.26 30.82 G. Total 309.99 303.00 193.37 165.60

FUNDS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE RELATED ISSUES 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1403 SHRI N. BALAGANGA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has earmarked funds in the current Five Year Plan to address climate change related issues;

(b) if so, the details of such funds, scheme-wise, State-wise, including the State of Tamil Nadu; and (c) the steps taken by Government to ensure utilization of such funds and the completion of such projects?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) During the 12th Five Year Plan, a new thematic scheme on “Climate Change Action Programme (CCAP)” with an outlay of Rs. 290 crores has been approved to build capacity and support implementation of relevant climate change related actions at the national and state level. This scheme comprises of eight activities. The budget under each activity of CCAP for the 12th Five Year Plan period (2012-17) is given in Annexure-I. The aforesaid scheme, provides support to States through the process of the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC). However, no specific allocation has been made for the State Governments including the State of Tamil Nadu in this regard. (c) Government has set up a National Steering Committee on Climate Change which monitors and evaluates the fund utilisation and progress made under SAPCCs. Annexure referred to budget under each activity of CCAP for the 12th Five Year Plan period (2012-17) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1403 due for reply on 22.8.2013

S. No.

Activities under the scheme Total funds (in crores)

1 Coordination of National Action Plan on Climate Change 0.65 2 State Action Plan on Climate Change 90.00

3 National Institute for Climate Change Studies & Actions 25.00 4 National Carbonaceous Aerosols Programme 84.00

5 Long Term Ecological Observatories for Climate Change Studies 40.00 6 Coordinated Studies on Climate Change for North Eastern Region 5.00

7 International Negotiations & Contributions 24.00 8 Capacity Building 16.00 9 Other administrative and foreign travels 5.35 Total for 5 years 290.00

IMPACT OF RELAXATIONS ON ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1404 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has decided to relax environmental clearance norms for projects requiring forest land; if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(b) whether an adverse impact on environment is likely to take place in the event of such relaxations; if so, the reaction of Government thereto; and

(c) whether Government has formulated any guidelines so as to reduce the diversion of forest land; if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): As per the guidelines for granting environment clearance in respect of projects involving forest land, the environment clearance is issued only after the grant of Stage-I approval for forest clearance. The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) received representations from various stakeholders to delink grant of Environment Clearance from forest clearance in case of linear projects such as roads, transmission lines, pipelines etc. involving patches of forest land along their alignment, often stretching to several hundred kilometers. After careful consideration of the matter and with the prior approval of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, these guidelines have been partially modified vide Office Memorandum No. J-11015/200/2008-IA.II(M) dated 19.3.2013, as per which pending grant of Stage-I forest clearance for non-forestry use of the forest land, the environment clearance to linear projects may be issued subject to stipulations contained in this Office Memorandum. (c) Use of forest land for non-forest purpose requires prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. Such approvals are given in accordance with the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, the Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 issued by the Central Government. Such approvals are accorded only when diversion of forest land is bare minimum and unavoidable after examination of all possible alternatives. VEHICLE POLLUTION CHECKING CENTRES 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1405 SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that cases of forgery at vehicle pollution checking centres have been reported by the Central Pollution Control Board; if so, the details of such forgery;

(b) whether use of any particular software has been detected in the forgery; (c) the number of vehicle pollution checking centres inspected and the number of centres out of these

found involved in forgery; and

(d) the action taken against pollution checking centres involved in forgery and the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has reported irregularities at Pollution Under Control (PUC) checking centres in Delhi. The CPCB conducts inspection of PUC to reduce vehicular pollution for improving ambient air quality in Delhi. It was also found that the some of the PUC operators were using pirated software to simulate values of the Petrol/Diesel analyzer without inserting the probe/hose-pipe in the vehicle, which may give wrong results. During December, 2012 and January, 2013, the CPCB has inspected 75 PUC Centres in Delhi, of which 25 PUC Centres were having various irregularities for not following standard testing procedure for measuring vehicular emission. The auditing report was sent to Transport Commissioner, Department of Transport, Govt. of National Capital Territory, Delhi, which is the nodal Department for ensuring proper functioning of PUC checking Centres. SURVEY ON ENVIRONMENTAL SITUATIONS 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1406 DR. T.N.SEEMA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state :

(a) Whether Government has made a survey on the environmental situations resulting in natural calamities like the recently occurred disastrous flood, heavy rain, cloud burst and landslides;

(b) If so, the details thereof ; (c) If not, whether Government proposes to conduct a study regarding environmental imbalance in coastal

areas and hilly areas; and (d) whether Government is contemplating to review and change laws related to construction of river view

apartments, hotels, houses on river banks, hilly areas and sea shore in view of natural disaster in consultation with the concerned State Government; if so, the details thereof ?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): No, sir. No specific survey has been done by the Ministry of Environment and Forests on the environmental situations resulting in natural calamities like the recently occurred disastrous flood, heavy rain, cloud burst and landslides. (c) and (d): Following research activities to study the environmental imbalances in the Indian Himalayan Region has been initiated in the 12th Plan Period :

1. Strategic environmental assessment (SEA) of hydropower projects in the Himalayan Region 2. Climate change impacts on ecosystem services in the Indian Himalayan region. 3. Ecological, social and policy implications of changing water resource scenario in the Indian Himalayan

context. 4. Farming systems and changing climate regime: strengthening food and nutritional security in the

Himalaya. 5. Understanding biodiversity patterns and processes under changing resource use and climate scenario in

Indian Himalaya – ecological and social implications. 6. Promoting conservation and sustainable utilization of Himalayan biodiversity elements using

biotechnological approaches. 7. Extremophiles from Himalaya: ecological resilience and biotechnological applications.

Legislations for protection and management of coastal areas titled Coastal Regulation Zone Notification(CRZ) and Island Protection Zone Notification (IPZ) were enacted by the Ministry of Environment and Forests in 2011. Under the CRZ Notification, the Central Government, with a view to ensure livelihood security to the fisher communities and other local communities, living in coastal areas, to conserve and protect costal stretches, its unique environment and its marine area and to promote development through sustainable management based on scientific principles taking into account the dangers of natural hazards in coastal areas, sea level rise due to global warming, declared the coastal stretches of the Country and the water area upto its territorial water limit excluding the Islands of Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshwadeep and the marine areas surrounding these Islands upto its territorial limit, as CRZ and restrict the setting up and expansion of any industry, operations or processes and manufacture or handling or storage or disposal of hazardous substances. Similarly, under the IPZ Notification, the Central Government, with a view of providing livelihood security to the local communities including the fisher folk and tribals, promote conservation and protection of Islands unique environment and its marine area and to promote development through sustainable integrated management plan based on scientific principles taking into account the vulnerability of the coast to natural hazards, hereby declare the coastal stretches of Middle Andaman, North Andaman, South Andaman and Greater Nicobar and entire area of the other Islands of Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep and their water area upto territorial water limit as the IPZ and restricts the areas from the setting up and expansion of any industry, operations or processes and manufacture or handling or storage or disposal of hazardous substances as specified in Hazardous Substances Rules, 2009, except in the manner provided in the Island Coastal Regulation Zone (ICRZ) and Integrated Islands Management Plans (IIMP). Further, all building & construction project are subjected to the provisions of Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 wherein the State or Union territory level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) while appraising the building and construction project proposal consider relevant environmental parameters like distance from the river, coastal regulation zone issues, distance from eco-sensitive areas etc. ILLEGAL CONSTRUCTION INSIDE THE KOYNA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1407 SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE: Will the Minster of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra has more than 200 windmill, 10 tourist resorts inside the sanctuary precincts;

(b) whether it is a fact that 1200 land deals have been finalised since 1985 and 4,000 hectares of tiger territory have been sold or encroached in the area thereby in contravention with the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972;

(c) the action taken by Government against illegal constructions and encroachments inside the Sanctuary; and

(d) whether it is also a fact that in 2006, a 6.5 kilometer road was laid inside the Sanctuary under Pradhan MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes Sir. As reported by the State, there are 206 windmills and 9 resorts on non-forest land inside the notified area of the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra. (b) The information on land deals of non-forest land inside the Wildlife Sanctuary is not collated at the Government of India level.

(c) As reported by the State, legal course of action has been initiated by the Forest Department against violations and the matter is subjudice. (d) Yes Sir. As reported by the State 6.5 kilometer road was laid inside the sanctuary during 2004-2007 and legal action has been initiated by the Forest Department against the implementing agency. HUNTING/KILLING OF WILD ANIMALS AND BIRDS 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1408 SHRI ISHWARLAL SHANKARLAL JAIN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether a large number of wild animals and birds are illegally being hunted and killed by hunters in forests, mountains and hills of various States of the country;

(b) the number of cases registered regarding hunting/killing of wild life and birds during the last three years and current year, State-wise;

(c) the estimated value of illegal trade of organs of wild animals during the said period; and (d) whether Government has taken any measure of steps to keep a watch on hunters in mountains and

forests and if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Reports of hunting of wild animals and birds in various parts of the country have been received in the Ministry from time to time. Details of information received about cases registered in various States/ Union Territories during the last three years and the current year are given in the Annexure. (c) The data on the magnitude of illegal trade of organs of wild animals is not collated in the Ministry. (d) Steps taken by the Government to keep watch on hunters in the country includes:

i) Intelligence on wildlife criminals is being collected and disseminated to the State enforcement agencies for appropriate legal action.

ii) Profiles of habitual wildlife offenders are prepared on a continuous basis and shared with enforcement agencies to keep watch over their activities.

iii) Assistance is being provided to States/ Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat’ and ‘Intensification of Forest management’ to strengthen forest protection.

ANNEXUTR REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a)& (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 1408 REGARDING ‘HUNTING/KILLING OF WILD ANIMALS AND BIRDS’ BY SHRI ISHWARLAL SHANKARLAL JAIN DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.08.2013. Details of the cases registered during the last three years and the current year

S.No State/UT 2010 2011 2012 2013 (till date)

1 Andaman & Nicobar Islands

41 43 53 7

2 Andhra Pradesh 82 83 51 15 3 Arunachal Pradesh 7 2 1 Nil 4 Assam 7 5 12 -

5 Chandigarh 5 Nil 3 1 6 Chattisgarh 62 57 25 6 7 Delhi 15 79 66 8 8 Goa 3 11 15 4 9 Gujarat 152 127 44 - 10 Haryana 109 40 112 32 11 Himachal Pradesh 65 48 6 - 12 Jammu & Kashmir 9 13 13 2 13 Jharkhand 1 1 Nil - 14 Karnataka 80 55 17 2 15 Kerala 168 136 108 5 16 Madhya Pradesh 181 126 66 8 17 Maharashtra 49 29 14 3 18 Manipur 5 9 - - 19. Meghalaya 3 4 - - 20 Mizoram 17 44 1 =- 21 Nagaland 1 4 - - 22 Odisha 26 15 - - 23 Pondicherry Nil Nil 8 - 24 Punjab 55 30 11 2 25 Rajasthan 427 202 183 18 26 Tamil Nadu 264 224 86 - 27 Tripura 1 - - 1 28 Uttar Pradesh 461 267 157 25 29 Uttarakhand 26 30 23 20 30 West Bengal 11 - - - Note: ‘-‘ indicates information not received. ENVIRONMENTAL APPROVAL TO ANY PROJECT 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1409 SHRI AMBETH RAJAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: whether any environment approval given by the Ministry to any project has been challenged by the public after the approval is uploaded in the Website of the Ministry within seven days of approval as mandated by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) vide its order dated 14th, March, 2013; if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) Section 16 of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) Act, 2010 inter alia provides that any person aggrieved by an order made, on or after the commencement of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, granting environmental clearance in the area in which any industries, operations or processes or class of industries, operations and processes shall not be carried out or shall be carried out subject to certain safeguards under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, may, within a period of thirty days from the date of which the order or decision or direction or determination is communicated to him prefer an appeal to the Tribunal. The NGT vide its order dated 14th March 2013 in M.A. No.104 of 2012 inter alia directed the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF), to upload on its website the Environment Clearance (EC) within seven days from the date of passing of the order of EC. The order further states that the date on which the order of EC is communicated to the public at large, shall be the date from which the period of limitation shall reckon as contemplated under section 16 of the Act.

MoEF, within seven days from the date of passing of the order of EC, is uploading it on its website so as to ensure that it is in public domain and any aggrieved person can timely approach the NGT for an appeal. SAND MINING IN UTTAR PRADESH 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1410 SHRI PRABHAT JHA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of sand mining in Uttar Pradesh; if so, the details thereof, district-wise; and

(b) whether Government would take action against sand mining in UP as it is major cause of ecological degradation; if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) : As per the information provided by the State Government of Uttar Pradesh, 570 mine lease areas have been granted for sand mining. (b): Sand mining is regulated in terms of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the Minor Mineral Concession Rules framed by the State Government there under. Further, the projects of sand mining require prior environmental clearance. For any violation, the necessary legal action would be taken. MAINTENANCE OF RIVER GANGA 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1411 SHRI ISHWAR SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

a) whether the Prime Minister has recently expressed unhappiness with the State Governments for tardy performance on sewage treatment and also directed them to take action against industries polluting the River Ganga; if so, the facts and details thereof;

b) whether the discharge of industrial pollution in river Ganga is increasing day by day and the various State Pollution Control Boards have completely failed to monitor industrial pollution; and

c) if so, the steps Union Government proposes to take to maintain the ecological health of the river Ganga?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) in its third meeting, chaired by the Prime Minister on 17th April 2012 had urged the State Governments to speed up the process of implementation of sanctioned projects and strengthen the enforcement mechanisms in the states to control industrial pollution. The Chairman also requested the Chief Ministers of Ganga States to make an assessment of the situation with regard to untreated sewage and industrial pollution affecting the water quality of river and present a report to the NGRBA, so that the institutional,

administrative and financial problems coming in way of effective implementation of pollution control measures can be addressed. (b) &( c) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) are empowered agencies in centre and state which monitor industries for compliance with respect to effluent discharge standards and take action for non compliance under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Water (Prevention and control of Pollution) Act, 1974. Under the NGRBA programme, CPCB has identified 764 Grossly Polluting Industries (GPI) in 5 states on the main stem of Ganga and its tributaries Kali- East and Ramganga. The GPIs are discharging approximately 501 million litres per day (mld) of wastewater directly or through tributaries of river Ganga. Out of 764 GPIs, 456 have been inspected by CPCB from August 2011 to July 2013 and action has been taken against non-complying industries. Besides, a comprehensive River Basin Management Plan for Ganga is under preparation through a consortium of seven Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT). The objective of the plan is to suggest comprehensive measures for restoration of the wholesomeness of the Ganga river system and improving its ecological health taking into account the issue of competing water uses in the river basin. WORSENING QUALITY OF AIR IN METRO CITIES 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1412 SHRI ISHWAR SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the survey report conducted by the Tata Energy Research Institute has revealed that the quality of air and water in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata is worsening day by day;

(b) if so, whether Government is also aware that the people residing in above mentioned metros are facing health problems due to poor quality of air and water; and

(c) if so, whether the Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Boards propose to take any effective steps to ensure that residents of those metros get air and water pollution free; if so, the details thereof ?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Tata Energy Research Institute (TERI) has published a report titled ‘TERI Environment Survey 2013’ for Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata. The report is based on public survey, newspaper reports, etc. The opinion of public based on individual perception is indicative rather than conclusive. The quality of ambient air, surface water and groundwater in above mentioned cities is monitored by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in association with concerned State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs). (b) No direct study on air and water quality related health problems has been conducted by TERI or CPCB. (c) The CPCB and SPCBs have taken various steps to contain air and water pollution which, inter-alia, include strict implementation of emission and effluent norms in polluting industries, supply of improved diesel and gasoline, promotion of mass rapid transport, implementation of city- specific ambient air improvement programme for 17 identified cities, monitoring of area specific action plan for 43 critically polluted areas, monitoring of common effluent treatment plants to treat effluent from SSI units, implementation of river specific action plans, monitoring of treated sewage quality arising from sewage treatment plants, etc. PREVENTION OF TOURIST ACTIVITIES IN TIGER PROJECTS AREAS

22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1413 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Supreme Court in its judgement prevented the tourists activities inside the tiger project areas; and

(b) if so, the details of steps being taken by Central Government and State Governments to implement the decision of the Supreme Court?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Pursuant to the order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in Special Leave to Appeal (Civil) No. 21339/2011 (Ajay Dubey versus National Tiger Conservation Authority and Others), a set of comprehensive guidelines has been issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority on 15th October, 2012, under section 38O-1(c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for Project Tiger and Tourism in Tiger Reserves, which allows regulated tourism in core areas of Tiger Reserves. ELEPHANT MOWED DOWN BY TRAINS 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1414 DR. CHANDAN MITRA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of elephants mowed down by trains in Uttarakhand, Odisha and West Bengal during the last three years, year-wise;

(b) whether Government has identified certain jumbo killer zones in the States mentioned above in order to observe the speed limit of train in order to avoid jumbo killings; if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the further steps taken by Government to prevent mowing down of jumbos by trains across the country?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) The number of elephant deaths in train accidents in the States of Uttarakhand, Odisha and West Bengal for last three years, year-wise, as reported by the States are as follows;

STATE 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 TOTAL ODISHA 0 2 10 12 WEST BENGAL 12 3 4 19 UTTARAKHAND 0 0 2 2

(b) Yes sir, the Government has identified vulnerable stretches of railways in respect of train-elephant accidents, the detail of which are at Annexure. (c) The Government has taken following measures to prevent accidental deaths of wild animals, especially elephants:

(i) Ministry of Railways in consultation with the Ministry of Environment and Forests had issued a general advisory to all the railway zones suggesting measures to prevent collision of trains with wild elephants. A permanent coordination team has been constituted jointly by the Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Environment and Forests to share information and monitor the implementation of the advisory.

(ii) Ministry of Railways has also been requested to regulate the speed of trains in vulnerable sections. (iii) Nodal officers have been designated in the vulnerable sections to facilitate quick sharing of

information. (iv) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has been releasing financial assistance to the State

Government of West Bengal under Centrally Sponsored Scheme-‘Project Elephant’ for construction of RCC watch towers, provision of heavy duty solar lights, high beam search lights, engagement of personnel to man watch towers, and clearing of bushes on the sides of railway tracks for improving visibility to monitor the movement of elephants near the railway tracks with the objective of preventing collision of elephants with trains.

(v) In consultation with the Ministry of Environment & Forest (MoEF) and Forest Departments of the State Governments, Railways is also attempting to find a more lasting solution in the matter through deposit works consisting of measures such as construction of ramps and underpasses etc.

Annexure

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 1414 REGARDING ‘ELEPHANTS MOWED DOWN BY TRAINS’ FOR REPLY ON 22.08.2013 Vulnerable stretches of Railway tracks in Odisha Section/Division Location Length Keonjhar Forest Division 8 E railway Post No.380/58/1 to 415/5.

35 kms.

Eco. Railway: railway post No. 16/6 to 23/11 7 kms Athgarh Forest Division Rai- Athgarh to Chhagaon Railway station 10 kms

Rai- Athgarh to Joranda Road Railway station 12 kms Rai- Athgarh to Ghantikhal Railway station 10 kms

Berhampur Forest Division Starting point : Railway post 557/19-20 Midpoints : Railway post 559/11-12, 561/32-33, 563/09-10,

564/17-88 End point :Railway post 568/07-08

Angul Forest Division Purunagarh Range : Talcher road to Angul

12 kms

Talcher Range : Talcher to Kaniha Buda Panka 18 kms Durga Range : Jarpada to Kerjeng 6 kms

Dhenkanal Forest Division Raj-athgarh to Hindol 40 kms Cuttack Forest Division Byree to Jhadeswar kadei railway station (Railway post no 385/9 to

385/12) 100 mtrs

Slagaon to Charabatia (railway post no 403/20 to 403/28 and 404/17 to 404/24)

400 mtrs.

Atthamalik Forest Division Dalimura to Jhinkibhal 14.00 kms Vulnerable Stretches of Railway tracks in West Bengal

Division

Location Length

Buxa Tiger Reserve Mahananda River- Bagrakote Railway Station Railway Post 16/5 - 33/9

17.4 Km.

Damdin R.S – New Mall Junction Railway Post 50/3 - 51/6

1.3 Km.

Murti River – Jaldhaka River Railway Post 65/7 - 72/7

7.0 Km.

Chengmari RS – Banaghat Junction Railway Post 86/2 – 86/8

0.6 Km

Banarhat – Binnaguri Railway Post 95/1 - 1.5 Km.

96/6 Binnaguri R.S - Dalgaon Railway Station Railway Post 103/3 -

103/8 0.5 Km.

Madarihat – Torsa River Railway Post 128/3 – 130/7

2.4 Km.

Hasimara Rail Gate – Damanpur N.H. crossing Railway Post 131 - 163

32.0 km.

Vulnerable stretches of Railway tracks in Uttarakhand Division Range Location Length Rajaji National Park Kansrao Range Culvert 139 Railway Pillar 52/2 to 43/9 9.00 Km.

Motichur Range Railway Pillar No. 43/9 to 40/9 3.00 Km. Railway Pillar No. 38/9 to 35/8 3.00 Km.

Haridwar Range Railway Pillar No. 35/6 to 31/8 4.00 Km. UNCONTROLLED DEVELOPMENT IN HIMALAYAN REGION 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1415 SHRI RAJEEV CHANDRASEKHAR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the recent tragedy in Uttarakhand can be attributed to rampant, uncontrolled development in the Himalayan region, what steps Government is taking to assess its past decision making that may have contributed to this tragedy; and

(b) the steps Government proposes to take in the future to protect the region from such rampant development and prevent the recurrence of such a tragedy?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): The environment and forest clearance for various developmental projects, including those in hilly areas in the State of Uttarakhand, are granted after following statutory procedures. The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 as amended from time to time, prescribes the procedure to be adopted for the grant of prior environment clearance in respect of developmental projects or activities stated in the Schedule to the Notification. Similarly, the diversion of forest land for non-forest activities is only allowed as per the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the rules and guidelines framed thereunder. In addition to the regular environment regulatory regime, the Ministry of Environment & Forests has notified vide S.O. NO. 2930 (E) dated 18th December, 2012, the entire watershed of about 100 kilometers stretch of the river Bhagirathi from Gaumukh to Uttarkashi covering an area of 4,179.59 squire kilometers in the State of Uttarakhand as Eco-sensitive Zone thereby inter-alia prohibiting and regulating certain activities within the Zone. PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION OF WILD ANIMALS 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1416 SHRI BIRENDRA PRASAD BAISHYA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Union Government proposes to conduct any special programme/schemes involving non-profit organization in various prospects of protection and conservation of wild animals as well as forest land area including community mobilization and awareness generation in the country; if so, the details thereof; and

(b) the details of programmes/schemes, conducted in participation of non-profit organizations in Assam towards conservation/protection activities of wildlife, criterion fixed list of organizations availed grant-in-aid in this regard, year-wise for last three years and till date?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) There is no proposal under consideration of the Ministry to conduct any special programme/schemes involving non- profit organization in various prospects of protection and conservation of wild animals as well as forest land area including community mobilization and awareness generation in the country. (b) As per the information received from the State Government of Assam, the Forest Department of Assam has not given any grants-in aid to any of the Non-Profit Organization towards conservation/protection activities of wildlife during last three years and the current year. PROPOSAL FOR SAPALI DAM 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1417 SHRI ANIL DESAI Will the Minister of ENVRIONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Maharashtra Government in the year 2009 had submitted a proposal for Sapali Dam (Upper Painganga Stage-2) in Taluka Kalamnuri, Distt. Hingoli;

(b) the status of environmental clearance for the said proposal; and (a) by when the work on the said Dam is likely to commence?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) In the year 2009, the Government of Maharashtra had submitted the Upper Penganga Irrigation Project Stage-II (Sapli Dam) in Hingoli and Nanded Districts of Maharashtra to the Ministry of Environment and Forests for seeking environmental clearance (EC) under Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006. The project was considered and appraised under the provisions of the EIA Notification, 2006 by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) constituted for River Valley & Hydroelectric Projects in its various meetings. The State Government was required to conduct public hearing in Hingoli District also and submit report to the Ministry. It has been observed that public hearing for Hingoli District has not been conducted in the manner prescribed in the EIA Notification, 2006. (b) & (c) The Government of Maharashtra has not yet submitted requisite documents regarding public hearing. On receipt of relevant information including report of public hearing, the Ministry will consider the same for granting EC in a timely manner. POWER OF ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1418

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government intend to delegate power of environment clearance of B categories projects in and around 10 kms radious critically polluted area to respective State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC)/State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA); and

(b) if so, what is the time-frame and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The General Condition under the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 inter alia provides that any project or activity specified in category “B” will be treated as category “A” if located in where or part within 10 km from the boundary of Critically Polluted Areas as notified by the Central Pollution Control Board from time to time. As such, there is no proposal under consideration to delegate power to accord environmental clearance of ‘B’ category projects in and around 10 kms radius of critically polluted areas to respective State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) / State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). CONSTITUTION OF SPECIAL TIGER PROTECTION FORCE 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1419 SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has received proposals from the States regarding constitution of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) for the safety of the tigers in the country;

(b) if so, the State-wise details thereof along with the number of officials and security personnels in this tiger protection force; and

(c) by when the said force is likely to start its operation? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a), (b) & (c) The Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) has been created and deployed by States at Bandipur (Karnataka), Pench and Tadoba-Andhari (Maharashtra) Tiger Reserves, with 100% central assistance under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger. The details of STPF personnel in position, as reported by States, are at Annexure-I.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1419 ON CONSTITUTION OF SPECIAL TIGER PROTECTION FORCE DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.08.2013. DETAILS OF STPF PERSONNEL IN POSITION

(as reported by States) Sl. No. Name of Tiger Reserve State Designation

Assistant Conservator of Range Forest Forest Guards &

Forests (ACF) Officer (RFO) Watchers 1. Bandipur Karnataka 1 2 108 2. Pench Maharashtra 1 3 108 3. Tadoba-Andhari Maharashtra 1 3 108 TOTAL 3 8 324 POLLUTION OF YAMUNA KEY BARRAGES 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1420 SHRI NARESH GUJRAL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the reasons for increasing pollution at Yamuna's key barrages near Delhi such as Okhla and Najafgarh; and

(b) the details of efforts Government is planning to ensure that the river in Delhi's vicinity meets the Bio-Chemical oxygen demand (Bod) standards?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The water quality of river Yamuna in the Delhi stretch, including at Okhla and Wazirabad, is not meeting the desired standards owing to a large gap between sewage generation and availability of sewage treatment capacity and lack of fresh water in the river. (b) The Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of the river Yamuna by providing financial assistance to Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh under the Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) in a phased manner since 1993. The works taken up under YAP relate to sewerage/interception and diversion of drains, sewage treatment plants (STPs), low cost sanitation/community toilet complexes, electric/improved wood crematoria, etc. Under Phase-I and II of YAP, works have been completed in 21 towns in the 3 States at a cost of Rs. 1438.34 crore (including State share). Sewage treatment capacity of 902.25 million litres per day (mld) has been created under these two phases of YAP. Further, the YAP Phase-III project for Delhi has been approved by the Ministry in December, 2011 at an estimated cost of Rs. 1656 crore. Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry in July, 2012 at an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns in Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana. In addition, State Governments are also accessing financial assistance for creation of sewerage infrastructure, including setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), in various towns under Central sector schemes like JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) and UIDSSMT (Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) of Ministry of Urban Development. This includes the interceptor sewer project taken up by Delhi Jal Board under JNNURM at a cost of Rs. 1357 crore for laying of interceptor sewers along three major drains discharging into Yamuna, namely Najafgarh, Shahdara and Supplementary drains, along with other associated works. PROJECT TIGERS IN NAXAL AFFECTED AREAS 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1421 SHRI V.P. SINGH BADNORE:


(a) how many ‘Project Tigers’ fall in the Naxal affected areas, the details thereof; (b) by when was the last census/estimation of tigers done in these project tigers, the details thereof; and (c) the strategy adopted by NTCA for such ‘Project Tigers’ to secure and conserve tigers?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The details of tiger reserves falling in the left wing extremism affected area are at Annexure-I. (b) Details of tiger estimation, interalia, including habitat affected by left wing extremism, for the years 2006 and 2010 are at Annexure-II. (c) Funding support is provided under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger for tiger conservation in tiger reserves including left wing extremism affected areas, which, interalia, includes deployment of local workforce and ecodevelopment activities in the peripheral / buffer areas to support livelihood for eliciting local public support towards tiger conservation.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1421 ON PROJECT TIGERS IN NAXAL AFFECTED AREAS DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.08.2013. Details of tiger reserves falling in the left wing affected area

S. No. Name of Tiger Reserve State

1. Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Andhra Pradesh 2. Similipal Odisha 3. Indravati Chhattisgarh 4. Palamau Jharkhand 5. Udanti-Sitanadi Chhattisgarh

Annexure-II

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1421 ON PROJECT TIGERS IN NAXAL AFFECTED AREAS DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.08.2013. Details of tiger estimation for the year 2006 and 2010





Estimate (Number)




297 259 335 353

320 388 Stable

Central Indian Landscape Complex and Eastern Ghats Landscape Complex Andhra Pradesh 95 84 107 72 65 79 Decrease Chhattisgarh 26 23 28 26 24 27 Stable Madhya Pradesh 300 236 364 257 213 301 Stable Maharashtra 103 76 131 169 155 183 Increase Odisha 45 37 53 32 20 44 Stable Rajasthan 32 30 35 36 35 37 Stable

Jharkhand Not assessed 10 6 14 Could not be compared since it was not assessed in 2006.


601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable


402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase







100

84 118 148

118 178 Increase



TOTAL 1411 1165 1657 1706 1520 1909 *** Statistical lower / upper limits could not be ascertained owing to small size of the population. DISPOSAL OF WASTE IN YAMUNA RIVER 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1422 SHRI MOTILAL VORA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has spent ` 4988 crore on the cleaning of Yamuna river in the past 18 years, but its desired results could not be achieved;

(b) whether it is also a fact that Yamuna river is getting more polluted due to the disposal of waste in it in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana and Uttarakhand;

(c) whether Government has identified the places in the said States which cause maximum pollution to Yamuna river, if so, the details thereof; and

(d) whether the Central Government has instructed the States to keep the banks of Yamuna clean, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna by providing financial assistance to Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) since 1993 in a phased manner.

A total expenditure of Rs. 1438.34 crore (including State share) has been incurred on schemes pertaining to sewerage/interception and diversion of drains, sewage treatment plants (STPs), low cost sanitation/community toilet complexes, electric/improved wood crematoria, etc under YAP Phase-I & II in the States of Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. Further, the YAP Phase - III project for Delhi has been approved with an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore. Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) with an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana. In addition, State Governments are also accessing financial assistance for creation of sewerage infrastructure, including setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), in various towns under Central sector schemes like JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) and UIDSSMT (Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) of Ministry of Urban Development. (b) The water quality of river Yamuna has not shown the desired improvement due to a large gap between the sewage generation and availability of sewage treatment capacity and lack of fresh water in the river. (c) As per the information provided by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), sewage pollution is contributed by the towns of Yamuna Nagar, Jagadhri, Karnal, Panipat, Sonepat, Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Ghaziabad, Palwal, Vrindavan, Mathura, Agra, Firozabad and Etawah. Delhi is the largest contributor of sewage pollution load to river Yamuna. (d) The Hon’ble National Green Tribunal (NGT) in the ongoing Application No. 06 / 2012 has directed the State Governments of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi to remove the debris lying along the banks of river Yamuna within a stipulated period. For the purpose of complying to the directions of the Hon’ble NGT, a Committee has been constituted under the chairmanship of Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forests to monitor progress of work by the concerned agencies of the State Governments. WATER POLLUTION BY OKHLA SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1423 SHRI RAM JETHMALANI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Yamuna water has been polluted to such a level that it can't be used even for bathing not to speak of using it for drinking purposes;

(b) if so, whether it has been confirmed by the Regional Pollution Control Board after a proper pollution check of this water;

(c) if so, whether it is a fact that the reasons behind making the river's water polluted are discharging of sewages by the drains of other cities beside that by Okhla Sewage Treatment Plant;

(d) if so, the facts thereof and the number of drains polluting the water, citywise; and (e) the arrangements made to treat such sewer water?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) As per the water quality monitoring of Yamuna by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the stretch of river Yamuna from origin to Wazirabad in Delhi is found to be largely within the prescribed limits with respect to dissolved oxygen and biochemical oxygen demand. However, Wazirabad to Okhla in Delhi and Kosi Kalan to Juhika in Uttar Pradesh have been identified as polluted stretches. (c) & (d) The water quality of river Yamuna has not shown the desired improvement due to a large gap between the sewage generation and availability of sewage treatment capacity and lack of fresh water in the river. As per the information provided by CPCB, sewage pollution is contributed by the towns of Yamuna Nagar, Jagadhri, Karnal, Panipat, Sonepat, Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Ghaziabad, Palwal, Vrindavan, Mathura,

Agra, Firozabad and Etawah. Delhi is the largest contributor of sewage pollution load to river Yamuna. There are 18 major drains in Delhi discharging waste water directly into river Yamuna. (e) The Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna by providing financial assistance to Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) since 1993 in a phased manner. A total expenditure of Rs. 1438.34 crore (including State share) has been incurred under on schemes pertaining to sewerage/interception and diversion of drains, sewage treatment plants (STPs), low cost sanitation/community toilet complexes, electric/improved wood crematoria, etc under YAP Phase-I & II in the States of Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. Further, the YAP Phase - III project for Delhi has been approved with an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore. Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) with an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana. In addition, State Governments are also accessing financial assistance for creation of sewerage infrastructure, including setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), in various towns under Central sector schemes like JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) and UIDSSMT (Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) of Ministry of Urban Development. This includes the interceptor sewer project taken up by Delhi Jal Board under JNNURM at a cost of Rs. 1357 crore for laying of interceptor sewers along three major drains discharging into Yamuna, namely Najafgarh, Shahdara and Supplementary drains, along with other associated works. NEED TO INCREASE IN STAFF STRENGTH IN SPCB 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1424 Dr. K. P. RAMALINGAM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that according to a study, it has been revealed that many States have not increased the staff strength of the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether Government has asked the State Pollution Control Boards to increase their staff strength as well as to fill up the vacancies already existing; and

(c) if so, the response received from the State Governments in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Studies carried out by various Institutions have emphasized the need to strengthen the State Pollution Control Boards on various aspects including enhancing their staff strength. A list of such studies is given at Annexure. These studies also stressed the need for effective enforcement of pollution abatement laws including regular verification of compliance by the industries and assessment of Water and Ambient Air Quality. Since, State Pollution Control Boards have also been entrusted with additional responsibility to administer the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Rules made thereunder, the existing staff with State Pollution Control Boards is therefore, inadequate and there is a need to enhance their staff strength. (b) & (c) Ministry of Environment & Forests after periodical review of enforcement of environmental Acts and Rules and taking cognizance of various studies and reports available, has emphasized the State Governments and the State Pollution Control Boards, for equipping the Boards with more technical experts and inter-disciplinary staff for effective regulatory compliance. Ministry of Environment and Forests also provides financial support to the State Pollution Control Boards for strengthening of laboratories and also to enhance staff strength of the State Pollution

Control Boards of North-Eastern region and the Union Territories. Some State Pollution Control Boards have taken initiative to enhance their Scientific and Technical Staff as a part of their strengthening plan. ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART-(A) OF THE ANSWER TO THE RAJYA SABHA ADMITTED UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1424 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 22.08.2013 REGARDING 'NEED TO INCREASE IN STAFF STRENGTH IN SPCB' ASKED BY DR. K.P. RAMALINGAM

1. The Bhattacharya Report, 1984 2. Belliappa Committee Report on common Staffing Pattern, 1992 3. Oberoi Committee, 1994 4. Organisation and Staffing of Pollution Control Boards, Report of Administration Staff College of

Indian (ASCI), 1994 5. Study Report of Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, 1996 6. Evaluation Study on Functioning of State Pollution Control Boards, Report of Planning Commission,

2000 7. The World Bank Report, 2007 8. 192rd Report of Parliamentary Standing Committee, 2008 9. Report of centre for Science and Environment (CSE), 2009-10

INCREASING POLLUTION RESPONSIBLE FOR HIGH CHILD MORTALITY 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1425 SHRI KAPTAN SINGH SOLANKI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether as per the report of the World Bank titled ‘Diagnostic Assessment of Select Environmental Challenges in India’, increasing pollution is the factor which is responsible for 23 percent child morality rate in the country, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) whether Government is in favour of carrying out any positive improvements in this regard, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) The World Bank has recently published a report titled Diagnostic Assessment of Select Environmental Challenges (three volumes) in India. The report provides estimates of social and financial cost of environmental damage in India considering urban air pollution/outdoor air pollution, indoor air pollution, inadequate water supply, sanitation, etc. The World Bank Report state that a significant part of the health burden especially from water supply, sanitation and hygiene is borne by children under 5 years of age. The report further suggests that about 23 percent of under -5 mortality can be associated with indoor air pollution and inadequate water supply, sanitation and hygiene. The estimates mentioned in the report are indicative rather than conclusive. No study on pollution related mortality has been conducted by World Bank or, CPCB in the country. World Bank has drawn its estimates without a study on pollution related mortality. The report has a mention that the exercise conducted here has a great deal of uncertainty, including that arising from limitations of data on social costs, from methods used to estimate the effects of pollution and resource degradation on indicators of health or output, i.e. the concentration-response functions, and from the transfer of some unit values from studies outside of India. (b) No conclusive data are available to establish the co-relationship between pollution and the incidence of disease cases. The steps taken by the Government to check pollution and prevention of diseases caused thereby inter-alia include the following:

The Government has formulated a comprehensive Policy for Abatement of Pollution that lays stress on

both the preventive and control aspects of pollution. The ambient air quality is monitored regularly through a network of monitoring stations under the National

Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Programme. Ambient air quality standards and emission standards for industrial units have been notified. Emissions from highly polluting industrial units and thermal power plants are regularly monitored and

action is taken against the defaulting units. Unleaded petrol is now available throughout the country. Sulphur content in petrol/diesel also has been

drastically reduced. Emission standards for on-road vehicles and mass emission standards for all categories of new vehicles

have been notified under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 Implementation of action plans for improvement of the ambient air quality in 16 cities apart from Delhi Introduction of cleaner fuels(B.S. III/IV) as per the Auto Fuel Policy Introduction of gaseous fuel in select cities and towns Use of beneficiated coal for coal based thermal power plants Enforcement of stringent ‘Pollution Under Control (PUC)’ certificate scheme to check exhaust emissions

from in-use vehicles Implementation of stringent emission norms for generator sets. Implementation of the recommendations of the Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environment

Protection (CREP) for seventeen categories of air polluting industries; Strengthening of public transport including establishment of metro rail in a few select metropolitan cities

MEETING OF NATIONAL RIVER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1426 SHRI P. BHATTACHARYA: SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE: SHRI K.C. TYAGI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that according to the CAG Report, the National River Conservation Authority has not held any review meeting for the last eight years;

(b) how much money was allotted to different States to address the issue of reduction of pollution in rivers, State-wise details thereof; and

(c) the list and details of States that had conducted surveys to quantify pollution caused by sewage in the towns and cities situated on the banks of rivers flowing through respective States?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The river conservation programme was initiated by the Government in 1985 with the commencement of Ganga Action Plan, which was later expanded in 1995 to cover other major rivers of the country under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). The 11th Meeting of the National River Conservation Authority (NRCA) to oversee the implementation of NRCP was held under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister in June, 2003. The Steering Committee of the NRCA, chaired by Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forests has been held four times subsequent to the NRCA meeting of June, 2003 to review the implementation of the Plan. The last meeting of the Steering Committee was held in December, 2007.

A comprehensive exercise was simultaneously taken up by the Government for review and revamp of the river conservation strategy. The Ganga Action Plan was taken up for a focused review. A series of meetings were held with the concerned Union Ministries, State Governments and implementing agencies. It was decided that in order to enhance the impact of river cleaning, the river conservation strategy should be taken up with a holistic river basin approach. Accordingly, the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) was constituted by the Government in February 2009, as an empowered planning, financing, monitoring and coordinating authority to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of river Ganga by adopting the river basin as the unit of planning. This Authority chaired by the Prime Minister has so far held three meetings on 5.10.2009, 01.11.2010 and 17.04.2012 respectively. (b) State-wise details of funds released by the Ministry for implementation of pollution abatement schemes for conservation of rivers under NRCP, including the NGRBA programme, are given at Annexure-I. (c) According to a study of Central Pollution Control Board, against an estimated sewage generation of about 38254 million litres per day (mld) from Class I & Class II towns in the country, the available treatment capacity is for around 11808 mld. State-wise break-up of sewage generation and treatment capacity available in Class I and Class-II towns are given at Annexure-II and Annexure-III. Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (b) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1426 to be answered on Thursday, the 22nd August, 2013 on ‘Meeting of National River Conservation Authority’ Details of Funds Released, State-wise under the National River Conservation Plan (including NGRBA programme) S. No. State River Funds released

(Rs. crore) 1 Andhra Pradesh Godavari & Musi 259.80 2 Bihar Ganga 92.07 3 Jharkhand Damodar, Ganga & Subarnarekha 4.45 4 Gujarat Sabarmati, Mindhola 131.76 5 Goa Mandovi 9.26 6 Karnataka Bhadra, Tunga-bhadra, Cauvery, Tunga & Pennar 47.83 7 Maharastra Krishna, Godavari, Tapi & Panchganga 128.79 8 Madhya Pradesh Betwa, Tapti, Wainganga, Khan, Narmada, Kshipra, Beehar, Chambal &

Mandakini. 79.0

9 Orissa Brahmini & Mahanadi 61.41 10 Punjab Satluj & Beas & Ghaggar 416.35 11 Rajasthan Chambal 41.12 12 Tamilnadu Cauvery, Adyar, Cooum, Vennar, Vaigai & Tambarani 623.65 13 Delhi Yamuna 451.94 14 Haryana Yamuna 269.81 15 Uttar Pradesh Yamuna, Ganga, Gomti &Ramganga 1175.22 16 Uttrakhand Ganga 89.40 17 West Bengal Ganga, Damodar & Mahananda 656.22 18 Kerala Pamba 2.78 19 Sikkim Rani Chu 90.41 20 Nagaland Diphu & Dhansiri 4.50

Total 4635.77 Annexure-II referred to in reply to part (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1426 to be answered on Thursday, the 22nd August, 2013 on ‘Meeting of National River Conservation Authority’ State wise sewage generation in Class-I Towns

S. No. State/Union Territory No. of towns Sewage Generation (in mld)

Sewage Treatment Capacity (in mld)

1 Andaman & Nicobar 1 12 - 2 Andhra Pradesh 47 1760.60 654 3 Assam 5 380.14 - 4 Bihar 23 1009.7 135.5 5 Chandigarh 1 429.76 164.79

6 Chhattisgarh 7 350.47 69 7 Delhi 1 3800 2330 8 Goa 1 9.79 - 8 Gujarat 28 1680.92 782.5 9 Haryana 20 626.69 333 10 Himachal Pradesh 1 28.94 35.63 11 Jammu & Kashmir 2 213.93 - 12 Jharkhand 14 830.47 - 13 Karnataka 33 1790.40 43.44 14 Kerala 8 575.17 - 15 Madhya Pradesh 25 1248.72 186.1 16 Maharashtra 50 9986.29 4225.25 17 Manipur 1 26.74 - 18 Meghalaya 1 20.84 - 19 Mizoram 1 5.71 - 20 Nagaland 1 13.62 - 21 Orissa 12 660.73 53 22 Pondicherry 2 56.46 - 23 Punjab 19 1528.26 411 24 Rajasthan 24 1382.37 54 25 Tamilnadu 42 1077.21 333.42 26 Tripura 1 24 - 27 Uttar Pradesh 61 3506.01 1240.13 28 Uttrakhand 6 176.97 18 29 West Bengal 60 2345.21 505.92

Total 498 35558.12 11574.68 Annexure-III referred to in reply to part (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1426 to be answered on Thursday, the 22nd August, 2013 on ‘Meeting of National River Conservation Authority’ State wise sewage generation in Class-II Towns

S.No. State/Union Territory No of towns Sewage generation (in mld)

Sewage Treatment Capacity (in mld)

1 Andhra Pradesh 52 217.59 10.42 2 Assam 8 6.46 - 3 Bihar 14 107.42 2 4 Chhattisgarh 7 40.82 5 Goa 2 13.89 18.18 6 Gujarat 31 227.55 - 7 Haryana 7 43.52 - 8 Jammu & Kashmir 4 27.86 - 9 Jharkhand 10 78.21 - 10 Karnataka 26 233.37 12.18 11 Kerala 26 231.32 - 12 Madhya Pradesh 23 130.9 9.00 13 Maharashtra 34 213.73 29 14 Meghalaya 1 11.25 - 15 Nagaland 1 1.36 - 16 Orissa 12 78.42 - 17 Pondicherry 1 7.984 - 18 Punjab 14 157.4 42.80 19 Rajasthan 21 147.79 - 20 Tamilnadu 42 184.67 29.3 21 Uttar Pradesh 46 345.7 12.61 22 Uttrakhand 1 9.07 6.33 23 West Bengal 27 180.42 61.88 Total 410 2696.70 233.7

CLEARANCE TO FIELD TRIALS FOR GENETICALLY MODIFIED PLANTS 22nd August, 2013

RSQ 1427 SHRI ALOK TIWARI: SHRI PRABHAT JHA: SMT KUSUM RAI: SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether genetic engineering approval committee has cleared field trials for genetically modified rice, wheat, maize and the castor oil plant for the kharif season, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether clearance for another 53 field trials are pending with GEAC, if so the details thereof and the reasons for the same;

(c) whether several State Governments have opposed the field trials of above GM crops, if so, the details thereof; and

(d) the response of genetic engineering appraisal committee to the opposition of States? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Yes Sir. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) has approved experimental field trials for the purpose of generating biosafety data in respect of GM crops such as cotton, rice, castor, wheat, maize, tomato, groundnut, potato, sorghum, okra, brinjal, mustard, watermelon, papaya, sugarcane, rubber, banana, pigeon pea, Artemisia annua L. and chickpea. (c) Currently about 79 applications covering 11 crops namely, cotton, rice, castor, maize, wheat, sugarcane, brinjal, potato, chickpea, mustard and sorghum are pending with the GEAC. Out of the 79 applications, 24 are awaiting NOC from the State Governments and the remaining 55 are yet to be considered by the GEAC. (d) In view of the objections received from some of the State Governments regarding GM crop field trials in their State, the GEAC in its meeting held on 6.7.2011 decided to direct the applicants to obtain NOC from the State Government in the first instance before issuance of the approval letter. Further, the entire issue is subjudice in the Supreme Court. DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND 22nd August, 2013 RSQ 1428 SMT KUSUM RAI: SHRI ALOK TIWARI: SHRI PRABHAT JHA: SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether on an average 135 hectares of forest lands are being diverted per day across the country, if so, the details thereof, State-wise;

(b) whether as per the data of Central Government, forest cover is increasing every year but in reality the country is losing the existing forest cover, if so, the details thereof;

(c) the reasons for furnishing contradictory data by Government; and (d) the details of steps Government would take to check diversion of forest land on such massive scale?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Since 25.10.1980, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has granted approval for diversion of 11,68,502 ha of forest land for non-forestry purposes involving 23,417 proposals. State-wise details are given in Annexure. (b) As per the India State of Forest Report- 2011, the net loss of forest cover of the country is 367 sq km compared to the previous assessment of India State of Forest Report – 2009. (c) In view of the (b) above, question does not arise. (d) Use of forest land for non-forest purpose requires prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. Such approvals are given in accordance with the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, the Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 issued by the Central Government. Such approvals are accorded only when diversion of forest land is bare minimum and unavoidable after examination of all possible alternatives.

Annexure Statement referred to in reply to part (a) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1428 asked by Shrimati Kusum Rai, Shri Alok Tiwari, Shri Prabhat Jha, Shri Arvind Kumar Singh due for reply on 22.08.2013 State-wise details of proposals accorded approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 since 25.10.1980

S. NO. Name of the State/UT Number of Proposals approved (In-Principle + Final approval) Area Diverted (Ha)

1. Andaman & Nicobar island 94 2,788.82 2. Andhra Pradesh 649 51,410.95 3. Arunachal Pradesh 230 36,069.16 4. Assam 271 8,286.74 5. Bihar 188 6,779.45 6. Chandigarh 28 49.108 7. Chhattishgarh 501 1,04,571.79 8. Dadar & Nagar Haveli 226 300.821 9. Daman & Diu 1 3.95 10. Delhi 12 40.058 11. Goa 101 2,231.52 12. Gujarat 1539 72,795.74 13. Haryana 2428 5,943.65 14. Himachal Pradesh 1653 15,022.68 15. Jammu & Kashmir 8 1,500.09 16. Jharkhand 381 28,648.53 17. Karnataka 778 45,287.35 18. Kerala 235 40,986.79 19. Lakshdeep 0 0 20. Madhya Pradesh 1044 3,85,404.61 21. Maharashtra 1600 99,310.72 22. Manipur 30 2,417.06 23. Meghalaya 102 794.447 24. Mizoram 32 26,196.40 25. Nagaland 0 0 26. Orissa 525 55,264.60 27. Pondichery 1 0.96 28. Punjab 3328 64,243.90 29. Rajasthan 679 29,043.60 30. Sikkim 340 3,140.53 31. Tamil Nadu 469 2,725.85 32. Tripura 286 7,772.56 33. Uttar Pradesh 1017 20,943.55 34. Uttarakhand 4525 44,160.26 35. West Bengal 116 4,366.06

TOTAL 23417 11,68,502.31

POLICY FOR CHECKING CONSTRUCTIONS NEAR RIVERS AND NULLAHS 29th August, 2013 RSQ * 267 SHRI KAPTAN SINGH SOLANKI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has any data regarding constructions along rivers in hilly areas, and if so, the details thereof, and

(b) whether Government has formulated any policy for checking constructions along rivers and nullahs in hilly areas, and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) & (b) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 267 to be answered on Thursday, the 29th August, 2013 on “Policy for checking constructions near rivers and nullahs” raised by Shri. Kaptan Singh Solanki. (a) & (b) The construction of buildings, houses, dwelling units, etc., including those along rivers and nullahs in hilly areas is regulated by the concerned State Governments and / or concerned local bodies / municipal authorities. While the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) has not formulated any policy for checking constructions along rivers and nullahs in hilly areas, building and construction projects involving built up area equal to or more than 20,000 square meters require prior environment clearance (EC) of the concerned State level Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) under the provisions of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, as amended from time to time. Further, the construction of various other projects including river valley projects, highways, etc., as listed out in the Schedule to the EIA Notification 2006, as amended from time to time, also require prior EC from MoEF or the concerned SEIAA depending upon whether the project is category ‘A’ or category ‘B’ respectively. For any construction proposal requiring use of forest land for non-forestry purpose, prior forest clearance is required under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the rules and guidelines framed there under. In addition to the regular environment regulatory regime, in the State of Uttarakhand, MoEF has notified S.O. No.2930 (E) dated 18th December, 2012, the entire watershed of about 100 kilometers stretch of the river Bhagirathi from Gaumukh to Uttarkashi covering an area of 4,179.59 square kilometers as Eco-sensitive Zone thereby inter-alia prohibiting and regulating certain activities within the Zone. SURPRISE CHECK BY CPCB IN HOSPITALS AT DELHI 29th August, 20133 RSQ *268 SHRI MOTILAL VORA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is fact that Max Super Speciality Hospital, Fortis Escort Heart Institute and Research Centre, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Hospital, Dr. Hedgewar Aroygya Sansthan and Lok Nayak Hospital

situated at Delhi have been found guilty of negligence in the disposal of biomedical wastes during surprise check by a team of the Central Pollution Control Board;

(b) if so, whether Government would look into the disposal of biomedical wastes in other hospitals also; and

(c) the action being taken by Government against those hospitals which were found guilty of negligence in disposal of the biomedical wastes, and if not, the reasons therefore?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c): A Statement is laid on the table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN PARTS (a) TO (c) OF REPLY TO THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.268 FOR ANSWER ON 29.08.2013 REGARDING “SURPRISE CHECK BY CPCB IN HOSPITALS AT DELHI” RAISED BY SHRI MOTILAL VORA: (a) to (c):In compliance to the order dated 18.04.2013 of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Appeal No.63 of 2012, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has conducted surprise inspection of five hospitals in Delhi, namely (i) Max Super Speciality Hospital, Indraprastha Extension, (ii) M/s Fortis Escorts Heart Institute and Research Centre Ltd. Okhla, (iii) Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Rohini (iv) Dr. Hedgewar Arogya Sansthan, Govt. of NCT of Delhi and (v) Lok Nayak Hospital, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Delhi. CPCB has submitted the inspection report to NGT. NGT has observed that none of these hospitals are strictly adhering to the parameters prescribed under the Bio-Medical Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1998 (BMW Rules). NGT has issued directions to these five hospitals to comply with the provisions of the BMW Rules and the compliance is being monitored by the NGT. The State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)/Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) of Union Territories are the Prescribed Authorities to grant authorizations to the Health Care Facilities (HCFs) for management of Bio-Medical Waste. They are also empowered to ensure compliance to the provisions of these Rules and take necessary action against the defaulting HCFs under the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Random inspections of Common Bio-Medical Waste Treatment and Disposal Facilities (CBMWTDFs) and HCFs are also conducted by CPCB. During the year 2012-13, CPCB has inspected 32 HCFs, 17 CBMWTDFs and 9 Armed Forces Health Care Establishments. Directions under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 have been issued to 12 CBMWTDFs and 1 HCF for their non-compliance of BMW Rules. KILLING OF ANIMALS BY HUMAN BEINGS 29th August, 2013 RSQ *270 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that a number of tigers, leopards, elephants and other animals are being killed by human beings;

(b) whether it is also a fact that in many places elephants, tigers and rhinos are killed for bone and horn and elephants in large number are also dying in Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and Bengal in rail accidents; and

(c) if so, the details of the steps being taken by Government to avoid this conflict between human beings and animals?


(a), (b) & (c):- A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *270 ON KILLING OF ANIMALS BY HUMAN BEINGS DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. (a) & (b) Details of tiger mortality and elephant deaths due to train hits, as reported by States, are at Annexures-I(a) & I(b). Mortality of other animals is not collated at the Government of India level. (c) Funding assistance is provided to States under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Project Tiger’, ‘Project Elephant’ and ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ for conservation of tiger, elephant and other wild animals, interalia, including protection and mitigation of human-wildlife conflicts.

Annexure-I(a) ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *270 ON KILLING OF ANIMALS BY HUMAN BEINGS DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. Details of tiger mortality during the current year, as reported by States

(as on 26.08.2013) Sl. No. Name of State Natural & other causes Poaching including seizure

Under Scrutiny TOTAL

1. Assam 0 0 5 5 2. Karnataka 0 3 10 13 3. Kerala 1 1 2 4 4. Madhya Pradesh 1 2 4 7 5. Maharashtra 2 2 5 9 6. Odisha 0 0 1 1 7. Tamil Nadu 1 0 1 2 8. Uttarakhand 0 0 7 7 9. Uttar Pradesh 0 0 1 1 10. West Bengal 1 0 0 1 11. Rajasthan 0 0 1 1 TOTAL 6 8 37 51

Annexure-I(b) ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *270 ON KILLING OF ANIMALS BY HUMAN BEINGS DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. Details of elephant death due to train hits during 2012-13, as reported by States

Sl. No. Name of State Number of Elephant 1. Odisha 10 2. West Bengal 4 3. Uttar Pradesh 0 TOTAL 14

Note: During the current financial year (2013-14), reports of casualties of elephant due to train hits, as reported by States, are as below: i) West Bengal: 3 elephants were reported to have died in a train accident on 30.05.2013 between Banarhat and Binnaguri Railway Station. ii) Uttar Pradesh: 1 elephant was reported to have died in a train accident on 22.08.2013 near Manjhra East railway station at Katerniaghat Sanctuary area in Bahraich district.

PROJECTS PENDING FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE 29th August, 2013 RSQ *271 SRIMATI RAJANI PATIL: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that several tourism as well as other developmental projects in various States are pending for environmental clearance with Government, and if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and

(b) the steps being taken to expedite the clearance of these projects and by when all these proposals are likely to be cleared?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN). (a) & (b) : A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 271 DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.8.2013 RAISED BY SRIMATI RAJANI PATIL REGARDING PROJECTS PENDING FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE (a) & (b) The proposals for prior environment clearance (EC) in respect of projects or activities listed in the Schedule to the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification 2006, as amended from time to time, are considered as per the provisions in the Notification. The State-wise details of proposals pending with the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) as on 31st July, 2013 are at Annexure 1. Various steps taken by MoEF to fast track the environment clearance process without compromising the quality of appraisal or the integrity of the environment include continuous monitoring of status of pending projects, regular and longer duration meetings of Expert Appraisal Committees for consideration of projects in different sectors, streamlining of process, etc.

Annexure-I State-wise details of project proposals pending for Environmental Clearance S. N.

Name of the State/UT

Industry Thermal River valley/ Hydro-electric

Infrastructure/ Construction/

CRZ

Coal Mine Non-coal Mine

Nuclear

Total Number of proposals pending for

ECs 1 Andhra Pradesh 05 - - 08 12 09 - 34 2 A & N 0 - - 04 - - - 04 3 Arunachal

Pradesh 0 - 4 - - - - 04

4 Assam 0 01 - - - 01 - 02 5 Bihar 01 - - 06 - - - 07 6 Chandigarh 0 - - - - - - 7 Chhattisgarh 05 03 - 03 - 03 - 14 8 Dadar Nagar

Haveli 01 - - - - - - 01

9 Daman & Diu 0 - - - - - - - 10 Delhi 0 - - - - - - - 11 Goa 0 - - -- - - - - 12 Gujarat 30 01 - 17 - 04 - 52 13 Haryana 01 - - 03 - - 01 05 14 Himachal

Pradesh 01 - 02 03 - 02 - 08

15 Jammu & Kashmir

0 - 01 05 - - 06

16 Jharkhand 02 01 - - 04 04 - 11

17 Karnataka 04 01 02 04 - - - 11 18 Kerala 0 - 05 - - - 05 19 Madhya

Pradesh 0 02 05 01 04 03 - 15

20 Maharashtra 03 04 02 25 08 02 - 44 21 Manipur 0 - - - - - - - 22 Meghalaya 01 - - - - - - 01 23 Mizoram 0 - - - - - - - 24 Nagaland 0 - - - - - - - 25 Lakshadweep 0 - - - - - - 00 26 Pondicherry 0 - - 02 - - - 2 27 Orissa 0 01 01 06 03 14 - 25 28 Punjab 01 - - - - 27 28 29 Rajasthan 03 - - - - 09 01 13 30 Sikkim 0 - 02 - - - 02 04 31 Tamil Nadu 05 01 - 02 - 01 - 09 32 Tripura 0 - - - - - - 00 33 Uttarakhand 02 - 03 03 - - - 08 34 Uttar Pradesh 01 02 - 01 04 - 08 35 West Bengal 02 01 - 04 02 - - 09 Total 68 18 22 101 34 83 04 330 MAN-MADE DISASTER IN UTTARAKHAND 29th August, 2013 RSQ *273 SHRI K.C. TYAGI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the recent calamity in Uttarakhand has been termed by some environmentalists as a man-made disaster;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and (c) the precautionary steps taken and proposed to be taken by the Government to prevent/minimise losses

due to such disasters in future? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c): A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 273 DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013 RAISED BY SHRI K.C. TYAGI REGARDING ‘MAN-MADE DISASTER IN UTTARAKHAND’. (a) & (b) The State of Uttarakhand experienced abnormally high rainfall between 15th and 17th June, 2013 that resulted in a number of landslides, cloudbursts and flood events throughout the State. As per information provided by Indian Meteorological Department, rainfall in Uttarakhand during the period 1st June – 18th June, 2013 was 385.1 mm against normal level of 71.3 mm, which was in excess by 440%. Heavy precipitation augmented the river discharge and almost all the major rivers and their tributaries crossed the danger level in Uttarakhand. This caused severe damage to life, crops and property in different parts of the State. Some environmentalists have asserted that the damage has been exacerbated on account of undertaking various development activities in the State without paying due attention to environmental concerns. (c) As regards the precautionary steps to address the environmental concerns, the environment and forest clearances for various developmental projects, including those in the State of Uttarakhand, are granted after following statutory procedures. The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 as amended from time to time,

prescribes the procedure to be adopted for the grant of prior environment clearance (EC) in respect of developmental projects or activities stated in the Schedule to the Notification. Similarly, the diversion of forest land for non forest activities is only allowed as per the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the rules framed thereunder. In addition to the regular environment regulatory regime, the Ministry of Environment & Forests has notified vide S.O. No.2930(E) dated 18th December, 2012, the entire watershed of about 100 kilometres stretch of the river Bhagirathi from Gaumukh to Uttarkashi covering an area of 4,179.59 square kilometres as Eco-sensitive Zone thereby inter-alia prohibiting and regulating certain activities within the Zone. APPROVAL FOR DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND 29th August, 2013 RSQ *279 SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the diversion of forest land for developmental activities requires prior approval of the Central Government;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the number of such proposals received by Government during the last three years and the current year, State-wise; and

(c) the number of proposals approved, rejected or pending along with the reasons for the same along with the time by which all the proposals are likely to be cleared?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 279 ASKED BY SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR REGARDING ‘APPROVAL FOR DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. (a) The diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes including developmental purposes requires prior approval of the Central Government under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. (b) & (c) The details of proposals received by the Central Government in the years 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 along with details of projects approved/ rejected by the Central Government is given in Annexure I. Details of proposals under consideration of the Central Government is given in Annexure II: . Proposals involving forest area upto 5 ha, except those pertaining to mining and regularization of encroachment, are decided by the Regional Offices of the Ministry while proposals involving areas 5 to 40 ha are decided by the Regional Office in consultation with the State Advisory Group with the approval of the Government of India. Proposals above 40 ha are dealt with by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, New Delhi. Detailed site inspection is required in proposals involving more than 100 ha of forest land. Quite often the proposals received are not complete in all respects and the Central Government has to seek further details/ documents from the concerned State Governments. These are the main reasons of pendency of the proposals. The proposals for diversion of forest land are processed in the Ministry of Environment & Forests and then considered by the Forest Advisory Committee constituted under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The Ministry takes a decision after considering the recommendations of the Committee. The Ministry takes prompt action to consider the proposals for forest clearance when proposals complete in all respects are received.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PARTS (b) TO (c) OF THE LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 279 ASKED BY SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR REGARDING ‘APPROVAL FOR DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013.

Annexure-I

S. No. States/Union Territories

Status of grant of forest clearance to various proposals during the last three years and current year upto 14.08.2013

Number of proposals received

Number of proposals approved*

Number of proposals rejected/ closed/ withdrawn/ returned

1 Andaman & Nicobar Island 31 7 4 2 Andhra Pradesh 122 118 76 3 Arunachal Pradesh 89 91 0 4 Assam 33 26 0 5 Bihar 101 88 6 6 Chandigarh 5 6 5 7 Chhattisgarh 82 74 22 8 Dadar & Nagar Haveli 15 14 10 9 Daman and Diu 0 1 0 10 Delhi 4 3 0 11 Goa 7 10 7 12 Gujarat 334 236 128 13 Haryana 1021 1261 41 14 Himachal Pradesh 756 666 51 15 Jharkhand 125 151 24 16 Karnataka 106 77 89 17 Kerala 41 23 18 18 Madhya Pradesh 169 156 68 19 Maharashtra 230 162 157 20 Manipur 15 8 0 21 Meghalaya 52 14 4 22 Mizoram 30 5 4 23 Odisha 77 73 11 24 Punjab 1015 991 73 25 Rajasthan 88 129 122 26 Sikkim 132 37 0 27 Tamil Nadu 31 41 24 28 Tripura 27 51 0 29 Uttar Pradesh 445 536 87 30 Uttarakhand 667 979 281 31 West Bengal 16 25 3

Total 6132 6059 1315 * Includes proposals received during the previous years and decided in the years under consideration

Annexure-II Details of proposals under consideration of the Central Government

S. No. States/Union Territories Number of proposals pending with Central Government

Pending with the Central Government due to non-receipt of essential information sought

from the State/ UT Govt. 1 Andaman & Nicobar Islands 2 5 2 Andhra Pradesh 21 32 3 Arunachal Pradesh 6 11 4 Assam 3 8 5 Bihar 8 6 6 Chandigarh 0 6 7 Chhattisgarh 10 25 8 Dadar & Nagar Haveli 1 4 9 Daman and Diu 0 2 10 Delhi 0 - 11 Goa 1 2 12 Gujarat 49 62 13 Haryana 23 484 14 Himachal Pradesh 2 265

15 Jharkhand 9 31 16 Karnataka 16 43 17 Kerala 3 5 18 Madhya Pradesh 29 67 19 Maharashtra 20 38 20 Manipur 2 5 21 Meghalaya 0 5 22 Mizoram 0 3 23 Odisha 12 16 24 Punjab 7 500 25 Rajasthan 5 31 26 Sikkim 1 2 27 Tamil Nadu 7 3 28 Tripura 0 18 29 Uttar Pradesh 16 34 30 Uttarakhand 38 34 31 West Bengal 2 1 Total 293 1748

RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.280 TO BE ANSWERED ON 29.08.2013 Policy to check dangerous air pollution 29th August, 2013 RSQ *280 SHRI RASHEED MASOOD: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the measures taken to check the rising pollution in big cities of the country like Delhi, Mumbai etc.; and

(b) whether any policy has been formulated to check the dangerous air pollution in Delhi, the capital of the country and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 280 DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013 RAISED BY SHRI RASHEED MASOOD REGARDING ‘POLICY TO CHECK DANGEROUS AIR POLLUTION’. (a) The Government has taken various measures to check the rising pollution in big cities of the country like Delhi, Mumbai etc. These measures are given in Annexure. (b) The Government has formulated integrated policies like National Conservation Strategy and Policy Statement on Environment and Development, 1992; Policy Statement on Abatement of Pollution, 1992 and National Environment Policy, 2006 to protect and conserve environment which inter alia include prevention and control of air pollution across the country. No specific policy has been formulated to check the air pollution in Delhi. ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 280 DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013 RAISED BY SHRI RASHEED MASOOD REGARDING ‘POLICY TO CHECK DANGEROUS AIR POLLUTION’.

Following measures have been taken to check the rising pollution: A – Air Pollution

(i) Notification of emission standards for various categories of industry and gensets under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986;

(ii) Implementation of action plans for improvement of ambient air quality in 17 cities including Delhi; (iii) Introduction of cleaner fuels(B.S. III/IV) as per the Auto Fuel Policy and registration of B.S. IV

compliant passenger cars in selected metropolitan cities and towns apart from National Capital Region; (iv) Introduction of gaseous fuel (CNG and LPG) in selected cities and towns; (v) Use of beneficiated coal for coal based thermal power plants; (vi) Enforcement of stringent ‘Pollution Under Control (PUC)’ certificate scheme to check exhaust

emissions from in-use vehicles; (vii) Source Apportionment Studies for fine particulate matter undertaken in six metro cities including Delhi,

Mumbai, etc.; (viii) Notification of revised National Ambient Air Quality Standards (November, 2009). (ix) Strengthening of National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Network; (x) Strengthening of mass public transport including establishment of metro rail, low floor bus, in selected

metropolitan cities. B- Water Pollution

i) Notification of effluent standards and special drives in 17 categories of highly polluting industries; ii) Establishment of Common Effluent Treatment Plants and Sewage Treatment Plants; iii) Implementation of National River Conservation Plan and setting up of National Ganga River Basin

Authority; iv) Augmentation of flow in rivers for maintaining their ecological balance including desired water quality;

and v) Implementation of rain water harvesting practices in various regions of the country to augment the

depleted water table.

C- Noise Pollution

i) Implementation of noise standards notified under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986; ii) Instructions issued to all the State Governments and UT Administrations in February, 2010 to ensure

compliance of the provisions of the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2010; and iii) Establishment of a National Ambient Noise Monitoring Network on the pattern of existing Ambient Air

and Water Quality Networks in the country. D- Municipal Solid Waste

i) Notification of the Municipal Solid Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules, 2000; ii) Municipal authorities made responsible for collection, segregation, storage, transportation, processing

and disposal of municipal waste; iii) Authorization and monitoring by the State Pollution Control Boards for storage, treatment and disposal

facilities for municipal solid waste; iv) Planning, designing, implementation, operation and maintenance of solid waste management (SWM)

system in the urban areas by State Governments/Urban Local Bodies ; and v) Financial assistance to State Pollution Control Boards/Committees to conduct training workshops and

group meetings with local bodies in order to create awareness about the provisions of the said rules.

GLOBAL WARMING IMPACT ON HIMALAYAN GLACIER 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2027 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the global warming has an impact on Himalayan glacier; (b) if the Himalayan glacier and Antarctica ice shelf melt and fall on sea, whether there would be any

adverse impact on Indian subcontinent; and (c) whether Government has any information in this regard and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) As per the studies conducted by the Geological Survey of India, the glaciers in Himalayan region are receding at varying rates in different regions. As per these findings, recession of glaciers could be the result from natural cyclic processes and other factors including, inter-alia, global warming. (b) & (c) No such studies have so far been carried out to address such issues. DUMPING OF WASTAGE IN YAMUNA BANKS 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2028 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that debris and other house-hold wastages are continued to be dumped in the Yamuna banks;

(b) whether Government is seized of this menace; if so, the details thereof; (c) whether some apex body has given some time-limit to local bodies and others by which they deposit

such health-hazard on the banks of the river; if so, the details thereof; and (d) the action plan of Government to control illegal land–grab and construction on such lands in the

Yamuna Bed?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) An Application No. 06/2012 has been filed before Hon’ble National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding removal of debris, solid wastes, construction material, etc, lying along the banks of river Yamuna. The NGT vide its order dated 22nd July 2013, has directed all concerned agencies to remove this debris by 15th August 2013. As per the information provided by the concerned agencies, Delhi Development Authority has removed 101,500 cubic metres (m3) of debris, Public Works Department and Irrigation & Flood Control Department of Delhi Government have removed 20,000 m3 of debris, Uttar Pradesh Irrigation Department has removed 71,000 m3 of debris and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has removed approximately 73,000 metric tonnes of construction & demolition waste from their jurisdiction.

(d) The Ministry has issued Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 which stipulates that all development activities, including construction, which are listed in the said Notification requires necessary clearances under the Notification. Violation of the notification attracts punitive action under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Under the provision of EIA Notification, 2006, environmental clearance for building & construction and township & area development projects are appraised by the State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEACs) and approved by the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). Further, State Governments issue Notifications/Notices from time to time to not take up construction on the river flood plain. TIGER PROTECTION FORCE FOR ‘PROJECT TIGER’ 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2029 SHRI V.P. SINGH BADNORE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) when did the NTCA decide for having Tiger Protection Force for ‘Project Tiger’ in India, the details thereof;

(b) how many ‘Project Tigers’ have Tiger Protection Force and what is the strength of this Force; and (c) how much fund has been allocated for the above, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Guidelines for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force were issued in the year 2008-09. (b) & (c) Details of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) deployed by State Governments with 100% funding support from the Central Government under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, are at Annexure-I. Further, under the said Scheme, central assistance is also provided for deployment of ex-army personnel, home guards etc. in tiger reserves as ‘Tiger Protection Force’, based on proposals received from States.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2029 ON TIGER PROTECTION FORCE FOR ‘PROJECT TIGER’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. A. Details of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) personnel in position

(as reported by States, as on 26.08.2013) Sl. No.

Name of Tiger Reserve State Designation

Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF)

Range Forest Officer (RFO)

Forester Forest Guards & Watchers

1. Bandipur Karnataka 1 2 - 108 2. Pench Maharashtra 1 3 - 108 3. Tadoba-Andhari Maharashtra 1 3 - 108 4. Similipal Odisha - - 17 45 TOTAL 3 8 17 369 B. Funding support provided for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) during the XII Plan period

(Rs. in lakhs) S. No. Name of Tiger Reserve State Year

2012-13 2013-14 1. Pench Maharashtra 86.80115 188.10 2. Tadoba-Andhari Maharashtra 86.80115 0.00 3. Bandipur Karnataka 0.00 477.9772 4. Similipal Odisha 0.00 250.00 DETAILS OF ELEPHANTS AND TIGER FIGURES AS PER LATEST CENSUS 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2030 SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN: SMT T. RATNA BAI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has the detailed figures of the elephants and tigers and its related projects as per the latest census; and

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise including Andhra Pradesh and if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The details of recent (2010) country level assessment of tiger, done once in every four years, using the refined methodology, are at Annexure-I. The details of elephant population, as reported by States, are at Annexure-II.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2030 ON DETAILS OF ELEPHANTS AND TIGER FIGURES AS PER LATEST CENSUS DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. Details of country level assessment of tiger (2010) State Tiger Population 2010 Estimate

(Number) Statistical Lower Limit Statistical Upper Limit

Shivalik-Gangetic Plain Landscape Complex Uttarakhand 227 199 256 Uttar Pradesh 118 113 124 Bihar 8 (-)*** (-)*** (-)*** Shivalik-Gangetic landscape 353

320 388

Central Indian Landscape Complex and Eastern Ghats Landscape Complex Andhra Pradesh 72 65 79 Chhattisgarh 26 24 27 Madhya Pradesh 257 213 301 Maharashtra 169 155 183 Odisha 32 20 44 Rajasthan 36 35 37 Jharkhand 10 6 14 Central Indian landscape 601 518 685 Western Ghats Landscape Complex Karnataka 300 280 320 Kerala 71 67 75 Tamil Nadu 163 153 173 Western Ghats landscape 534 500 568 North Eastern Hills and Brahmaputra Flood Plains Assam 143 113 173 Arunachal Pradesh Not assessed Not assessed Not assessed

Mizoram 5 (-)*** (-)*** (-)*** Northern West Bengal Not assessed Not assessed Not assessed North East Hills, and Brahmaputra landscape

148

118 178

Sundarbans 70

64 90

TOTAL 1706 1520 1909 *** Statistical lower / upper limits could not be ascertained owing to small size of the population.

Annexure-II ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2030 ON DETAILS OF ELEPHANTS AND TIGER FIGURES AS PER LATEST CENSUS DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. Details of elephant population, as reported by States

Sl. No. States Year 2007 2012

1. Arunachal Pradesh 1690 890 2. Assam 5281 5620 3. Meghalaya 1811 1811 * 4. Nagaland 152 212 5. Tripura 59 59 6. West Bengal 325-350 647 7. Jharkhand 624 688 8. Odisha 1862 1930 9. Chhattisgarh 122 247 10. Uttarakhand 1346 1346 * 11. Uttar Pradesh 380 291 12. Tamil Nadu 3867 4015 13. Karnataka 4035 5648-6488 14. Kerala 6068 5942-6422 15. Andhra Pradesh 28 41 16. Maharashtra 7 4

27657-27682 29391-30711 * Meghalaya and Uttarakhand have not conducted elephant census after 2007. Therefore the figure of 2007 has been maintained for 2012 as well. REPRESENTATION FOR DAMAN-GANGA RIVER 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2031 SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA: SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry has received any representation for Daman-Ganga river of Union Territory of Daman to grant permission under National Conservation of River Plan to eliminate pollution from this river; if so, what further action has been taken by the Ministry; and

(b) whether the Ministry has approached the Ministry of Home Affairs in this regard and if not, the reasons therefor?


(a) Representations regarding conservation of river Daman Ganga in Daman (U.T.) were received in this Ministry in December, 2012 and February, 2013. The stretch of river Daman Ganga from Vapi downstream (in Gujarat) to its confluence with the sea has been identified as polluted by the Central Pollution Control Board. The Administrator, Daman was requested in February, 2013 to formulate the project proposal for pollution abatement/conservation of river Daman Ganga under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). However, no such proposal has been received in this Ministry for consideration so far. (b) Does not arise in view of the reply given in part (a) above. INDUSTRIES VIOLATING ENVIRONMENTAL/GREEN NORMS 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2032 SHRI ALOK TIWARI: SMT KUSUM RAI: SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH: SHRI PRABHAT JHA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the industries/companies found guilty of violating environmental/green norms and causing pollution by National Green Tribunal (NGT), State-wise and company-wise; and

(b) the details of industries/companies penalised by NGT during the last year and the current year so far, State-wise?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) &(b) As per information provided by the Central Pollution Control Board and Regional Offices of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, 23 number of industries of Uttar Pradesh found violating environmental / green norms and causing pollution have been closed down on the orders of the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The list of these industries is at Annexure-I. In addition, the NGT has also directed the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board to shut down all polluting industries in Noida till they install the pollution control devices. The details of industries / companies found guilty of violating environmental / green norms in the State of Assam are at Annexure-II and the list of industries / companies to whom closure notices have been issued by the Assam Pollution Control Board in compliance to the Hon’ble NGT’s order is at Annexure-III. ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) AND (B) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2032 DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013 REGARDING INDUSTRIES VIOLATING ENVIRONMENTAL/ GREEN NORMS RAISED BY SHRI ALOK TIWARI AND OTHERS. LIST OF INDUSTRIES of U.P. CLOSED DOWN ON THE ORDERS OF NGT Induction Furnace Units

1. M/s Sutech Industries Pvt Ltd, B-4, B.S. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 2. M/s G.M.K. Steels Pvt Ltd., A-3, B.S. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 3. M/s Supreme Ceramics, C-154, B.S. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 4. M/s Chaudhry Steels Pvt Ltd., C-205, B.S. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 5. M/s Jaycee (Jai Shri) Steels Pvt Ltd., B-25, B.S. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 6. M/s Supreme Electro Cast Pvt Ltd., C-112, B.S. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad

7. M/s Mohan Electro Casting Pvt Ltd., C-225, B.S. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 8. M/s Supreme Alloys Pvt Ltd., C-232, B.S. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 9. M/s T.S. Engineering Works, Ghaziabad 10. M/s Shri Nathji Ispat Ltd., A-5, S.S. of G.T. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 11. M/s Rathi Steel & Power Ltd., C-4, S.S. of GT Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 12. M/s D.V.S. Steel Pvt Ltd, A-7/60, S.S. of G.T. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 13. M/s Shakun Engineering Works P Ltd., 17-A, Site-IV, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad 14. M/s Ambica Steels Ltd., 51/2 Site IV, Sahibabad, Gaziabad

Pharmaceuticals

15. M/s Wardex Pharmaceutical Ltd., C-15 & A-48/10, Site-IV, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad Textiles

16. M/s The Webbing & Belting Factory Pvt Ltd., G.T. Road. Opp Pawan Cinema,, Ghaziabad 17. M/s Suruchi Dyeing Udyog Pvt Ltd., 37, S.S. of G.T. Road Ind Area, Ghaziabad 18. M/s J.D.P. of Sh. Sachin Jain, E-80, Rajinder Nagar Ind Area, Mohan Nagar, Ghaziabad 19. M/s Dhan Raj Textile Processors, 47, Gali No-4, R.I.A., Ghaziabad 20. M/s Nitin Kumar Jain, 15/6, Site-IV, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad 21. M/s Shyama Textiles Mills, S-12, Site-IV, Sahibabad, Ghaziabad 22. M/s Shri Sai Processors 7/37, Loni Road, Mohan Nagar, Gaziabad. 23. M/s Shankar Prints, S-4, Loni Road Ind Area, Mohan Nagar, Ghaziabad

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) AND (B) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2032 DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013 REGARDING INDUSTRIES VIOLATING ENVIRONMENTAL/ GREEN NORMS RAISED BY SHRI ALOK TIWARI AND OTHERS. Details of the industries/companies found guilty of violating environmental/green norms by the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal in Assam Type of Industries Number Location Direction Stone Crushers 11 Within NDZ Immediate removal of 10, except M/s. Assam Stone crushers installed b

Directed State of Assam to relocate outside the NDZ

Stone Crushers 23 Outside NDZ Directed not to allow operation till necessary polluting equipments have been installed.

Brick Kiln 34 Within NDZ Immediate removal of 33, except one which was installed before 1996. Directed State of Assam to relocate outside the NDZ.

Miscellaneous industries Within NDZ a. Petrol pump 4 Except 4 petrol pumps and a restaurant,

others should be shifted outside the NDZ immediately. b. Saw mill 1 c. Steel fabrication 1 d. Restaurant 1 e. Concrete making 1 f. Mustard oil making 2 g. Flour mill 1

Tea Factories

25 Within NDZ 22 located within NDZ and 3 within 500 m of NDZ. SPCB and other authorities have been directed that no tea processing unit should use fossil fuels located within NDZ.

*NDG – No Development Zone ANNEXURE-III REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) AND (B) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2032 DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013 REGARDING INDUSTRIES VIOLATING ENVIRONMENTAL/ GREEN NORMS RAISED BY SHRI ALOK TIWARI AND OTHERS. List of closure notices issued in compliance to NGT’s order

S. No Type of Industries No. of Industries Location 1. Tea Industries 28

Within NDZ (24) Outside NDZ (4)

2. Brick Industries 40 Within NDZ (38) Outside NDZ (2)

3. Stone Crushers 12 Within NDZ (9) Outside NDZ (3)

4. Miscellaneous Industries 12 Within NDZ

*NDG – No Development Zone NEGOTIATION WITH INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2033 SHRI. RAM CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: Whether the final negotiation with the International Community on Kyoto Protocol Agreement is completed and if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) Yes Sir, the final negotiation with the International Community on Kyoto Protocol was completed at the Conference of Parties (CoP18) held at Doha, Qatar, during Nov 25-Dec 8, 2012. Amendments to the Kyoto Protocol (KP) were adopted wherein the Annex I Parties to the Kyoto Protocol agreed to take on commitments in a second commitment period from 1/1/ 2013 to 31/12/ 2020. During the second commitment period, Parties committed to reduce Green House Gas (GHG) emissions by at least 18 percent below 1990 levels in the period from 2013 to 2020. POLICY FOR RECYCLING COMPUTER WASTE 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2034 SHRI THAAWAR CHAND : Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that United Nationals Environment Programme (UNEP) has in its report expressed concern over the issue of rising computer waste in India, and

(b) whether Government is contemplating to formulate and policy for recycling the annually increasing computer waste and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) As per the available information, UNEP has come out with a report during the year 2009 entitled, “Recycling- From E-waste to Resources”. In section 3.2.1.1 of this report there is reference of e-waste generated from personal computers in terms of per capita per year. India with generation of less than 0.15 kg/capita/year of e-waste has been shown to be amongst countries with lowest quantity of per capita e-waste from personal computers. (b) The Ministry of Environment and Forest, has already notified E-Waste Rules in May 2011, which have come into force with effect from 1st May 2012. The concept of Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) has been

enshrined in these rules. As per these Rules, the producers are required to collect e-waste generated from the end of life of their products by setting up collections centers or take back systems either individually or collectively. E-waste recycling can be undertaken only in facilities authorized and registered with State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committee (PCCs). Wastes generated are required to be sold to a registered or authorized recycler or re-processor having environmentally sound facilities. The rules have provision for setting up of Collection Centre individually or jointly; or by a registered society or a designated agency; or by an association to collect e-waste. UNFAVOURABLE CONDITION OF FOREST IN ASSAM 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2035 SMT NAZNIN FARUQUE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the condition of forests in Assam is getting unfavourable for the animals and a number of elephants and rhinos are being killed and if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(b) whether a number of culprits have been arrested in the last two years and if so, the details thereof; and (c) the steps taken and being taken by Government to stop killing of animals and development of Assam

forest? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) As informed by the State Government of Assam, the condition of forests in Assam is not getting unfavorable for the wild animals. The population of rhinos, one of the major species of wildlife found in Assam has been steadily rising in Kaziranga and has gone up from 1855 in 2006 to 2328 in 2013. However, there have been a few cases of killing of elephants and rhinos in the past. A total of 4 and 6 elephants and 9 and 22 rhinos were killed in 2011 and 2012 respectively. The elephants were killed in retaliation by the victims of the man-animal conflict, while the rhinos were mainly killed by criminal and anti-social groups, primarily to smuggle the rhino horns out of the country. (b) The number of culprits arrested during the last two years in Assam are as given below:

S.No Year No. of poachers arrested 1. 2011 20 2. 2012 148

(c) The major steps taken by the Government of Assam to stop killing of animals and development of forests include:

I. Development & modernization of infrastructure in protected areas of Assam has been done. II. The Section 51 of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 has been amended by promulgating Wildlife

(Protection) (Assam Amendment) Act, 2009 raising the penalty to the poachers up to life imprisonment and fine not less than Rupees 75,000/-. Assam is the first state in the country to take such legal step.

III. All forest officers have been given power to use fire arms for protection of forests and wildlife along with the immunity from prosecution without prior Government sanction.

IV. Assam Forest Protection Force Jawans have been equipped with SLRs and sufficient armed Home Guards have been deployed to augment the strength of the field staff.

V. Committees have been constituted for effective co-ordination among civil, police and forest Administration for effective surveillance and anti-poaching measures.

VI. Rhino poaching cases have been handed over to CBI for investigation by the State Home Department. VII. Awareness and education Programmes have been undertaken among the various communities.

VIII. People participations through Eco-development committees are being conducted. IX. Community based wildlife Eco-tourism is being promoted.

The Protected Areas of Assam are being provided funding through the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of Project Tiger, Project Elephant and Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats. The state has 5 National Parks and 18 wild life sanctuaries. The Kaziranga and Manas forests are managed as Tiger Reserves. Forests of Sonitpur, Dihing-Patkai, Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong, Dhansiri-Lungding and Chirag-Ripu areas are notified as Elephant Reserves in the Project Elephant. The funding support provided by the Government of India is meant to be utilized for, inter alia, development of the forests to provide for improved habitat for the wildlife and to improve protection status to them. The funds provided to State Govt of Assam in last three years under these schemes are as below:

Amount: Rs. Lakhs Year Name of the Schemes

IDWH* Project Tiger Project Elephant 2010-11 186.63 1509.4720 139.55 2011-12 234.17 947.5088 200.00 2012-13 146.00 373.894 250.00 *IDWH: Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat FUNDS DISBURSED TO ‘PROJECT TIGERS’ FOR RELOCATION OF VILLAGES 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2036 SHRI V.P. SINGH BADNORE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of funds disbursed to various ‘Project Tigers’ for relocation of villages during last three years, project-wise;

(b) the number of villages that have been relocated, the details thereof; and (c) the number of villages that used to be relocated in Sariska and Ranthambore Project Tigers, the details

thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The details of funding support provided during the last three years for voluntary relocation of the villages from the notified core/critical tiger habitats of tiger reserves, under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, are at Annexure-I. (b) & (c) As reported by States, the details of villages relocated from the core/critical tiger habitat of tiger reserves, interalia, including Sariska and Ranthambhore, are at Annexure-II.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2036 ON FUNDS DISBURSED TO ‘PROJECT TIGERS’ FOR RELOCATION OF VILLAGES DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. Details of funding support provided during the last three years for voluntary village relocation under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger

(Rs. in lakhs)

Annexure-II

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2036 ON FUNDS DISBURSED TO ‘PROJECT TIGERS’ FOR RELOCATION OF VILLAGES DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. Details of villages relocated from the core/critical tiger habitat of tiger reserves

(as reported by States) S. No.

Name of the State Name of the Tiger Reserve No. of Villages in the notified core area of Tiger Reserves (as on 30.6.2012)

No. of Families in the notified core area of Tiger Reserves (as on 30.6.2012)

No. of Villages relocated from the notified core/ critical tiger habitat of tiger reserves since the inception of Project Tiger (as on 23.4.2013)

No. of Families relocated from the notified core/ critical tiger habitat of tiger reserves since the inception of Project Tiger (as on 23.4.2013)

1 Andhra Pradesh Kawal 37 2064 0 0 2 Andhra Pradesh Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam 28 1731 0 0 3 Arunachal Pradesh Namdapha 3 77 0 0 4 Arunachal Pradesh Pakke 0 0 0 0 5 Assam Kaziranga 8 270 0 0 6 Assam Manas 31 912 0 0 7 Assam Nameri 0 0 0 0 8 Bihar Valmiki 0 0 0 0 9 Chhattisgarh Achanakmar 25 3553 6 249 10 Chhattisgarh Indravati 56 1300 0 0 11 Chhattisgarh Udanti-Sitanadi 50 3712 0 0 12 Jharkhand Palamau 3 633 0 0 13 Karnataka Bandipur 0 0 0 0 14 Karnataka Bhadra 16 736 11 420 15 Karnataka Biligiri Ranganatha Temple 34 0 0 0 16 Karnataka Dandeli-Anshi 13 629 0 0 17 Karnataka Nagarhole 37 1826 6 496 18 Kerala Parambikulam 6 318 0 0 19 Kerala Periyar 0 0 0 0 20 Madhya Pradesh Bandhavgarh 14 2501 1 149 21 Madhya Pradesh Kanha 34 1913 30 1063 22 Madhya Pradesh Panna 13 2411 9 738 23 Madhya Pradesh Pench 8 281 8 281

Sl. No. Name of Tiger Reserve 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13

1 Achanakmar (Chhattisgarh)

723.98 505.21

260.810 0.00

2 Nagarahole (Karnataka)

784.40 944.937 0.00

3 Bandhavgarh (Madhya Pradesh)

2000.00 2069.99 0.00

4 Kanha (Madhya Pradesh)

140.00 1608.000 3857.00

5 Dampa (Mizoram)

0.00 0.00 227.00

6 Similipal (Odisha)

610.00 0.00 0.00

7 Ranthambhore (Rajasthan)

0.00 (-) 600.00 2600.00

8 Sariska (Rajasthan)

1860.00 600.00 1079.117

9 Mudumalai (Tamil Nadu)

200.00 0.00 0.00

10 Melghat (Maharashtra)

1886.528 739.190 0.00

11 Tadoba-Andhari (Maharashtra)

288.73 2264.135 0.00

TOTAL 8998.848 7787.062 7763.117

24 Madhya Pradesh Sanjay-Dubri 40 4967 0 0 25 Madhya Pradesh Satpura 42 4097 4 318 26 Maharashtra Melghat 30 4858 6 589 27 Maharashtra Pench 1 107 0 0 28 Maharashtra Sahayadri 58 2586 43 1582 29 Maharashtra Tadoba-Andhari 6 1069 1 164 30 Mizoram Dampa 1 227 1 227 31 Odisha Satkosia 5 129 0 0 32 Odisha Similipal 4 255 1 133 33 Rajasthan Ranthambhore 78 2144 15 1250 34 Rajasthan Sariska 28 2409 3 519 35 Tamil Nadu Anamalai 33 1532 0 0 36 Tamil Nadu Kalakad-Mundanthurai 8 223 0 0 37 Tamil Nadu Mudumalai 30 449 0 19 38 Uttarakhand Corbett NA 181 0 0 39 Uttar Pradesh Dudhwa 0 0 0 0 40 West Bengal Buxa 7 1229 0 0 41 West Bengal Sundarbans 0 0 0 0 Total 787 51329 145 8197

INCREASE OF CARBON-DIOXIDE IN DELHI 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2037 SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the health of people is getting affected due to swift increase in pollution especially the increase in the quantum of carbon-dioxide in Delhi and its adjoining area;

(b) if so, the percentage of increase of the quantity of carbon-dioxide during the last ten years; and (c) the steps taken by Government to check the increasing pollution and carbondioxide?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) Carbon dioxide (CO2) is not listed as one of the pollutants in National Ambient Air Quality Standards and is not monitored under National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP). CO2 is a Greenhouse Gas. An estimated amount of increase of CO2 in the atmosphere is in the order of 2.1 parts per million (ppm)/year has been observed during the last ten years. (c) The Government have taken various steps including formulation of action plans to contain air pollution and CO2 which, inter alia, include:

(i) Notification of emission standards for various categories of industries processes and gensets, under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986;

(ii) Implementation of action plans for improvement of the ambient air quality in 17 cities including Delhi; (iii) Source Apportionment Studies undertaken in six metro cities; (iv) Introduction of cleaner fuels (B.S. III/IV) as per the Auto Fuel Policy; (v) Introduction of gaseous fuel in select cities and towns; (vi) Sale and registration of B.S. IV compliant passenger cars in selected metropolitan cities and towns

apart from national Capital Region; (vii) Enforcement of stringent ‘Pollution Under Control (PUC)’ certificate scheme to check exhaust

emissions from in-use vehicles; (viii) Implementation of stringent emission norms for generator sets; (ix) Use of beneficiated coal for coal based thermal power plants;

(x) Implementation of the recommendations of the Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environment Protection (CREP) for seventeen categories of air polluting industries;

(xi) Notification of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (November, 2009); (xii) Strengthening of National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Network; (xiii) Inspection and monitoring of air pollution industries for compliance of the emission norms; and (xiv) Strengthening of public transport including establishment of metro rail in a few select metropolitan

cities. (xv) National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released on June 30 2008. Two of the eight

National Missions i.e. National Solar Mission and National Mission on Enhanced Energy Efficiency relate to mitigation of emissions and include ambitious programmes aimed at generating solar power and conserving energy. Energy Efficiency mission envisages setting norms for achieving energy efficiency under Perform, Achieve and Trade Scheme.

INCREASING MINING OF SAND ON RIVER BEDS 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2038 SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the National Green Tribunal ordered a nationwide stay on sand mining on river beds; if so, the details thereof; and;

(b) whether it is a fact that the country has been witnessing increasing mining of sand on river beds; if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): The National Green Tribunal (NGT) order of 5th August, 2013 in Original Application No.171 of 2013 restrains any person, company, authority to carry out any mining activity or removal of sand, from river beds anywhere in the country without obtaining Environmental Clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) / State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and license from the competent authorities. Sand mining is regulated in terms of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the Minor Mineral Concession Rules framed by the State Government there under. Further, the projects of sand mining require prior environmental clearance. For any violation, the necessary legal action would be taken. DECISION REGARDING REDUCING OF CARBON EMISSION 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2039 SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has taken decision to reduce carbon emission by 20 per cent to 25 per cent in the country during 2005 to 2020;

(b) if so, the date on which this decision was taken and whether after the said decision, Government has selected the areas in the country, which have been targeted for reduction in carbon emission; and

(c) if so, the names of those areas and the basis for selection of only those areas and the status of carbon emission in these identified areas?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) Government of India has announced that it would reduce emissions intensity of its Gross Domestic Product by 20-25% from 2005 level by 2020 in December, 2009. As per the interim report on ‘Low Carbon Strategy for Inclusive Growth’ prepared by the Expert Group set up by the Planning Commission, twelve focus areas have been identified for 12th Five Year Plan. These areas are Advanced Coal Technologies, National Wind Energy Mission, National Solar Mission, Technology Improvement in Iron and Steel Industry, Technology Improvement in Cement Industry, Energy Efficiency Programmes in the Industry, Vehicle Fuel Efficiency Programme, Improving the Efficiency of Freight Transport, Better Urban Public and Non-motorized Transport, Lighting, Labelling and Super-efficient Equipment Programme, Faster Adoption of Green Building Codes and Improving the Stock of Forest and Tree Cover. No measurement has been made to know the status of carbon emissions in these areas. STOP ORDER OF CONSTRUCTION OF POLAVARAM 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2040 SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the 'stop work order' for construction of Polavaram has been kept in abeyance for six months from February this year;

(b) if so, since six months have been elapsed, will the Ministry lift the ban or will it extend the ban on work in the light of thousands of villages that would be submerged and tens of thousands of tribals that would be displaced not only in Andhra Pradesh but also in Chhattisgarh and Odisha;

(c) whether Government of Andhra Pradesh has conducted any public hearing; and (d) whether the State has submitted its Report on public hearing etc., to the Ministry?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes Sir. The 'stop work order' for construction of Indira Sagar (Polavaram) Multipurpose project in Andhra Pradesh has been kept in abeyance for six months w.e.f. 27.02.2013. (b) Six months period for which the stop work order has been kept in abeyance expires on 26.8.2013. The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) has issued directions under Section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to Andhra Pradesh Government asking not to cause submergence in Chhattisgarh and Odisha by impounding reservoir till the differences and disputes among the co-basin states are settled and resolved. (c) & (d) Government of Andhra Pradesh has conducted Public Hearing in five Districts of Andhra Pradesh namely Krishna, West Godavari, East Godavari, Khammam and Visakhapatnam on 10.10.2005 and submitted the report while seeking Environmental Clearance for the project. MSP TO PRODUCE MEDICINAL PLANTS 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2041

DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government proposes to assure Minimum Support Price (MSP) to minor forest produce including medicinal plants so as to encourage farmers to take up cultivation of such plants on a large scale; if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether State Governments have urged Union Government for procurement of medicinal plants through Government’s Medicinal Plant Farms and Herbal Medicine Corporation Limited in the event of prices in open market going below MSP; and

(c) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by Union Government in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The National Medicinal Plant Board under Department of AYUSH (Ayurveda Yoga & Naturopathy Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of “National Mission on Medicinal Plants” since 2008-09 to encourage farmers to take up cultivation of medicinal plants through Growers, Farmers, Cultivators, Growers Associations, Federations, Self Help Groups, Corporates and Growers Co-operatives while promoting the backward and forward linkages. The subsidy provided to the cultivators is routed through State Mission Directors. The rates of subsidy for different medicinal plants species are 75%, 50% and 20% of the cost of cultivation of these medicinal plants, depending upon the threat status to their long term sustainability, gestation period and need for support etc. The Government has recently approved a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Mechanism for Marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) through Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Development of Value Chain for MFP’. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is the Nodal Ministry for implementation of the Scheme. This Scheme which will initially cover eight States namely, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Gujarat for twelve (12) MFPs namely, Tendu , Bamboo, Mahuwa Seed, Sal Leaf, Sal Seed, Lac, Chironjee, Wild Honey, Myrobalan, Tamarind, Gums (Gum Karaya) and Karanj which are not nationalised by the State Government concerned. The scheme seeks to establish a system to ensure fair monetary returns by fixing Minimum Support Price. (b) & (c) No such proposal has been received in the Ministry of Environment & Forests from State/ UT Governments. However, the Ministry is providing assistance to various States/ UTs under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Afforestation Programme for taking up afforestation including plantation of medicinal plants. FOREST COVER IN RAJASTHAN 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2042 DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the present forest cover in Rajasthan; (b) the percentage of forest cover during 1960-70, 1971-80, 1981-90, 1991-2000 and 2001-2010, various

forest census; and (c) the steps proposed to be taken by the State Government to increase the forest cover and the target set

thereof, and the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) As per India State of Forest Report-2011 published by Forest Survey of India, Dehradun, the forest cover of Rajasthan is 16087 Square kilometer. (b) The first-ever forest cover mapping for the entire country was done by Forest Survey of India in the year 1987 and hence the data regarding forest cover pertaining to the decades 1960-70, 1971-80 are not available. The percentage of forest cover to the geographical area of the State is as follows:- (c) As per the report received from the State, the State Government has taken up plantation activities to increase the forest cover under various schemes/projects namely National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Rajasthan Forestry and Biodiversity Project (RFBP), Reforestation of Degraded Forests (RDF), Climate Change, Eco Task Force (ETF), Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) and Gang-Bhakara Scheme etc. The details of targets for plantation under these schemes/projects for the year 2013-14 are as follows:-

Name of the Scheme/Project Plantation target (Hectares) NABARD 29504 RFBP 10451 RDF 5000 Climate change 1746 ETF 300 CAMPA 3850 RKVY 95 Gang-Bhakara Scheme 400 Total 51346

ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION COSTS 19th August, 2013 RSQ 2043 SHRI SANJAY RAUT: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the World Bank report entitled ‘Diagnostic Assessment of Select Environmental Challenges in India’ released recently stated that the environmental degradation costs India $80 billion annually, and if so, the details of the report; and

(b) the concrete steps that the Ministry is taking to rectify the lacunae pointed out in the report? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

Assessment Year Forest Cover as percentage of Geographical Area 1987 3.73 1989 3.76 1991 3.77 1993 3.83 1995 3.88 1997 3.90 1999 4.05 2001 4.87 2003 4.62 2005 4.68 2009 4.69 2011 4.70

(a) The World Bank has submitted the Report titled ‘Diagnostic Assessment of Select Environmental Challenges in India’ to the Government of India. The report states inter-alia, “The report estimates the total cost of environmental degradation in India at about Rs.3.75 trillion (US$80 billion) annually”. (b) The Report is being examined in the Government. FOREST DESTROYED DUE TO FIRE 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2044 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that one-third of forest in our country and other countries also like Malaysia and Indonesia are destroyed due to forest fire; and

(b) how much forest area in India, State-wise is destroyed by forest fire and what are the steps taken by Government to check the forest fire?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) As per the report “Vulnerability of India’s Forests to Fires” brought out in the year 2012 by Forest Survey of India (FSI), Dehradun, 15.06% of the forest area of the country is vulnerable to forest fire. (b) Details of annually burnt recorded forest areas due to forest fire State/UT wise as estimated by FSI Dehradun is given in annexure. The Ministry supplements the efforts of the State/UT Governments for forest protection including protection from forest fire by providing assistance under various schemes namely Intensification of Forest Management, Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats, 13th Finance Commission Award and Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). Under Intensification of Forest Management Scheme, funds are provided for patrolling of the forests, establishment of camps, building fire watch towers, creation and maintenance of fire line, survey and demarcation of forest areas and strengthening forest infrastructure etc. FSI has also established a near real time forest fire monitoring system together with National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad where by forest fire alerts are generated on daily basis during the fire season.

ANNEXURE ANNEXURE REFERRED TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2044 DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013 ASKED BY SHRI RAMA CHAMDRA KHUNTIA REGARDING FOREST DESTROYED DUE TO FIRE

(Sq. Km) S. No. State/UT Recorded forest area burnt by fire

1 A & N Islands 0.00 2 Andhra Pradesh 5765.52 3 Arunachal Pradesh 1742.85 4 Assam 890.27 5 Bihar 149.34 6 Chandigarh 0.00 7 Chhatisgarh 1238.18 8 D&N Haveli 5.77 9 Daman & Diu 0.00 10 New Delhi 0.00 11 Goa 24.22 12 Gujarat 331.20

13 Haryana 81.18 14 Himachal Pradesh 1599.38 15 Jammu & Kashmir 984.71 16 Jharkhand 535.90 17 Karnataka 2086.66 18 Kerala 296.49 19 Lakshadweep 0.00 20 Madhya Pradesh 1658.27 21 Maharashtra 1210.10 22 Manipur 994.91 23 Meghalaya 549.16 24 Mizoram 980.29 25 Nagaland 521.98 26 Odisha 2459.92 27 Puducherry 0.00 28 Punjab 73.53 29 Rajasthan 795.00 30 Sikkim 116.09 31 Tamil Nadu 1300.27 32 Tripura 352.06 33 Uttar Pradesh 570.98 34 Uttarakhand 1868.26 35 West Bengal 273.19

Grand Total 29455.70 FAILURE OF DELHI FOREST DEPARTMENT 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2045 SHRI D. RAJA: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Forest Department of Delhi has failed to protect and augment greenery in the capital mainly due to the severe staff and resource crunch; and

(b) if so, the details thereof and what measures are being taken to solve the problem? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) As per the reply received from the Government of NCT of Delhi, it is not true that the Forest Department of Delhi has failed to protect and augment greenery in the capital. According to the India State of Forest Report 2011, the forest and tree cover of Delhi is 296.2 sq. Km which is 19.97% of its geographical area. Greening activities in NCT of Delhi are co-ordinated by the Department of Forests & Wildlife, Government of NCT of Delhi with different agencies of the State Government like Public Works Department, Delhi Development Authority, Delhi Cantonment Board, Central Government agencies like Central Public Works Department, Eco Task Force and local bodies like New Delhi Municipal Corporation, Municipal Corporation of Delhi etc. LOSS OF ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2046 SHRIMATI VASANTHI STANLEY:

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the World Bank has reported that the annual loss of environmental degradation is worth Rs. 3.75 trillion;

(b) whether it is also a fact that 25 per cent of child mortality is caused due to poor water supply; and (c) the specific steps taken by the Ministry to improve the overall situation?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a): The World Bank has submitted the Report titled ‘India Diagnostic Assessment of Select Environmental Challenges’ to the Government of India. The report states inter-alia, “The report estimates the total cost of environmental degradation in India at about Rs.3.75 trillion (US$80 billion) annually”. The Report is being examined by the Government. (b): Poor water supply is not a direct cause of deaths in children. However, drinking of unsafe water is responsible for water-borne diseases which can cause morbidity and mortality in children. As per WHO estimates, 11% of Child mortalityin the age group of 0-5 years in India is due to Diarrhoeal disease. (c): The Government of India provides financial and technical assistance to States under the National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) to supplement their efforts to provide adequate safe drinking water to the rural population. A budgetary allocation of Rs. 11,000 crores has been provided for NRDWP in 2013-14. Under NRDWP, the Government of India has given priority to cover partially covered and quality affected habitations with safe drinking water. Upto 67% of the allocations made to States under NRDWP can be utilized for coverage of partially covered and quality affected habitations. 5% of NRDWP allocation is earmarked for allocation to those States facing problems of chemical contamination in drinking water or with Japanese Encephalitis and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome affected high priority districts. CLEARANCE TO ATOMIC PLANT IN JAITAPUR 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2047 SHRI P. RAJEEVE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state whether the Ministry has given clearance to the proposed atomic plant in the Jaitapur, Maharashtra, if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) The Ministry has accorded environmental clearance to Jaitapur Nuclear Power Park (6x 1650 MWe) at Village Madban, Taluka Rajapur, District Ratnagiri, Maharashtra by M/s Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) vide letter no. J-14011/1/2009-IA.II (N) dated 26th November 2010. AGITATION TO STOP KILLING OF ANIMALS FOR RESEARCH 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2048 SHRI S.THANGAVELU Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS be pleased to state;

(a) (a) whether it is a fact that there has been a wide-spread agitation to stop killings of animals for

scientific research purposes, if so, the details thereof; and (b) whether it is also a fact that the agitators have demanded carrying of animals in flights, if so, the

details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) As per the information received from Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA) and Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), no incident of wide-spread agitation to stop killings of animals for scientific research purposes and agitators demanding carrying of animals in flights has come to notice. GREENING OF DEGRADED LANDS, AFFORESTATION AND ECO-RESTORATION 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2049 DR. V. MAITREYAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has envisaged the Greening of degraded lands, afforestation and eco-restoration of ecologically sensitive areas and the Technology-based monitoring of forest cover, bio-diversity through dedicated satellite by 2017, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) whether Government has plans to establish an open web-based National Forestry and Environmental Information system for research and public accessibility by 2015 and Green Guards/Community Foresters for every Joint Forest Management (JFM) village by 2016, and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) The National Mission for Green India is a new initiative by the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the National Action Plan for Climate Change (NAPCC). The Mission interalia aims to increase forest and tree cover on 5 million ha area and to improve quality of forest cover on another 5 million ha area which also envisages ecorestoration /afforestation in degraded forest lands and ecologically sensitive areas. The mission also envisages engagement of community foresters to facilitate implementation of mission activities at the local level and also to provide skilled employment opportunity to community youths. Presently, the Forest Survey of India carries out monitoring of forest cover through space borne remote sensing using LISS-III data of Indian Remote sensing Satellite and the planning Commission has included the technology based monitoring of forest cover and biodiversity through dedicated satellite as one among the monitorable targets for the twelfth plan. The Ministry is operating a website under the Environmental Information System (ENVIS) scheme. Under the ENVIS scheme presently there are 67 ENVIS centres on various thematic and state-related issues while the National Forestry Information System is initiated by the Ministry for technology based monitoring of afforestation programmes/schemes undertaken by the State Forest Departments under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes. DANGER TO SETTLEMENTS ALONG THE RIVERS AND NALLAHS 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2050

SHRI KAPTAN SINGH SOLANKI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that human settlements are lodged along the rivers and nallahs in the hilly areas of the country, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the swelling of rivers and nallahs due to rain water poses danger to the settlements along the same, resulting in loss of life and property; and

(c) if so, whether Government has framed any guidelines in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) The construction of buildings, houses, dwelling units, etc., including those along rivers and nullahs in hilly areas is regulated by the concerned State Governments and / or concerned local bodies / municipal authorities. While the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) has not formulated any guideline for regulating constructions along rivers and nullahs in hilly areas, building and construction projects involving built up area equal to or more than 20,000 square meters require prior environment clearance (EC) of the concerned State level Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) under the provisions of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, as amended from time to time. For any construction proposal requiring use of forest land for non-forestry purpose, prior forest clearance is required under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the rules and guidelines framed there under. In addition to the regular environment regulatory regime, in the State of Uttarakhand, MoEF has notified S.O. No.2930 (E) dated 18th December, 2012, the entire watershed of about 100 kilometers stretch of the river Bhagirathi from Gaumukh to Uttarkashi covering an area of 4,179.59 square kilometers as Eco-sensitive Zone thereby inter-alia prohibiting and regulating certain activities within the Zone. DECLARATION OF BUFFER ZONE 29th August, 2013 RSQ 2051 SHRI FAGGAN SINGH KULASTE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the villages adjoining wildlife sanctuaries in the country have been declared as buffer zones by Government, if so, whether any special scheme has been formulated for the development of villages situated inside these buffer zones;

(b) whether it is also a fact that the villages situated inside these buffer zones are being relocated elsewhere; whether there is a provision for compensation to the displaced families; and

(c) the total number of the sanctuaries having the compensatory provision, so far, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Buffer or peripheral areas have been notified by State Governments for all 43 tiger reserves in the country. The details are at Annexure-I. Funding support is provided under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger for tiger conservation in tiger reserves which, interalia, includes deployment of local workforce and ecodevelopment activities in the peripheral / buffer areas to support livelihood for eliciting local public support towards tiger conservation. (b) No Sir.

(c) Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, 100% central assistance is provided for village relocation from the core / critical tiger habitats with an enhanced package of Rs. 10 lakhs per family on a voluntary basis, as provided under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, read with the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2051 ON DECLARATION OF BUFFER ZONE DUE FOR REPLY ON 29.08.2013. List of Buffer areas notified by States under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972,

as amended in 2006 Sl. No. Name of Tiger Reserve State Area of the buffer /

peripheral (In Sq. Kms.)

1 Bandipur Karnataka 584.06 2 Corbett Uttarakhand 466.32

Amangarh (buffer of Corbett TR) Uttar Pradesh 80.60 3 Kanha Madhya Pradesh 1134.361 4 Manas Assam 2310.88 5 Melghat Maharashtra 1268.03 6 Palamau Jharkhand 715.85 7 Ranthambore Rajasthan 297.9265 8 Similipal Odisha 1555.25 9 Sunderbans West Bengal 885.27 10 Periyar Kerala 44.00 11 Sariska Rajasthan 332.23 12 Buxa West Bengal 367.3225 13 Indravati Chhattisgarh 1540.70 14 Nagarjunsagar Andhra Pradesh 1175.51 15 Namdapha Arunachal Pradesh 245.00 16 Dudhwa Uttar Pradesh 1107.9848 17 Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tamil Nadu 706.542 18 Valmiki Bihar 300.93 19 Pench Madhya Pradesh 768.30225 20 Tadoba-Andhari Maharashtra 1101.7711 21 Bandhavgarh Madhya Pradesh 820.03509 22 Panna Madhya Pradesh 1002.42 23 Dampa Mizoram 488.00 24 Bhadra Karnataka 571.83 25 Pench Maharashtra 483.96 26 Pakke Arunachal Pradesh 515.00 27 Nameri Assam 144.00 28 Satpura Madhya Pradesh 794.04397 29 Anamalai Tamil Nadu 521.28 30 Udanti-Sitanadi Chhattisgarh 991.45 31 Satkosia Odisha 440.26 32 Kaziranga Assam 548.00 33 Achanakmar Chhattisgarh 287.822 34 Dandeli-Anshi Karnataka 282.63 35 Sanjay-Dubri Madhya Pradesh 861.931 36 Mudumalai Tamil Nadu 367.59 37 Nagarahole Karnataka 562.41 38 Parambikulam Kerala 252.772 39 Sahyadri Maharashtra 565.45 40 Biligiri Ranganatha Temple Karnataka 215.72 41 Kawal Andhra Pradesh 1125.89 42 Sathyamangalam Tamil Nadu 614.91 43 Mukundara Hills Rajasthan 342.82 TOTAL 29789.06

NORMS FOR VARIOUS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

29th August, 2013 RSQ 2052 SHRI C.P. NARAYANAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) in the background of very significant changes in climate in the country during recent years and usually heavy rains in several parts of the country and consequent heavy losses of life and natural wealth, whether Government would consider introducing more stringent norms for various development projects in States from Uttarakhand to Kerala;

(b) whether Government intends to make norms concerning dams, roads, agricultural activities, etc. more precise and their implementation more strict; and

(c) whether single window clearance arrangement for big projects announced by Government be applied very rarely?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): As far as the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) is concerned, the environment and forest clearance for various developmental projects, are granted after following statutory procedures. The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 as amended from time to time, prescribes the procedure to be adopted for the grant of prior environment clearance in respect of projects or activities like river valley projects, highways, etc. stated in the Schedule to the Notification. Similarly, the diversion of forest land for non-forest activities is only allowed as per the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the rules and guidelines framed thereunder. (c) MoEF does not have single window clearance arrangement for big projects. However, the Cabinet Secretariat, vide No. 1/11/3/2012-Cab. dated 2nd January, 2013 has constituted the Cabinet Committee on Investment with the functions as stated therein. CLEARANCE ISSUANCE MECHANISM IN NEW CRZ NOTIFICATION 5th December, 2013 RSQ *2 SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is fact that the Clearance issuance mechanism in new Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification is issued on the basis of the pollution potential of the projects within the CRZ areas; (b) if so, the mechanism for the projects which have low pollution potential and do not attract provisions of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification; (c) whether it is a fact that some State Governments have taken up the issue of revising issuance process for the projects, which only attract provisions of CRZ Notification 2011; and (d) if so, the decision that has been taken by Government in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (b) to (d) A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 2 on “Clearance issuance mechanism in new CRZ Notification” raised by Shri Natuji Halaji Thakor” to be answered on 05.12.2013. (a) and (b) The para 3 of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2011 prohibits certain activities within CRZ area such as setting up of new industries and expansion of existing industries, discharge of untreated wastes, storage of hazardous chemicals, etc. with certain stipulations. Para 4 of the CRZ Notification regulates permissible activities which inter-alia include foreshore facilities such as ports and harbors, jetties, quays, wharves, erosion control measures, breakwater, lighthouses, projects relating to Department of Atomic Energy, pipelines, building construction, etc. As regards the permissible activities not listed in the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, the same require clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests. (c) No, Sir.

(d) Does not arise in view of the reply given to part (c) above. NEW INITIATIVES TO ENSURE ZERO PER CENT POLLUTION 5th December, 2013 RSQ *5 DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has spent crores and crores to control pollution in the Ganga and Yamuna and no tangible results have surfaced, if so, the reasons therefor; (b) whether the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Yamuna and Ganga river authorities have completely failed to put a check on the pollution of rivers; and (c) if so, the new initiatives that Government proposes to take to ensure zero per cent pollution of rivers ?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 5 to be answered on Thursday the 5th December, 2013 on “New initiatives to ensure zero percent pollution” raised by Dr. Janardhan Wagmare. (a) & (b) Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in abatement of pollution in identified stretches of various rivers, including Ganga and Yamuna, under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) and NGRBA (National Ganga River Basin Authority) programme, for implementation of projects on a cost sharing basis between the Central and State Governments. NRCP presently covers 42 rivers in 195 towns spread over 20 States at a sanctioned cost of Rs.9336.87 crore. Various pollution abatement schemes taken up by the States under the Plan, inter-alia, include interception and diversion of raw sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, creation of low cost sanitation facilities, setting up of electric/improved wood crematoria and river front development. Till date, sewage treatment capacity of 4814.80 million litres per day (mld) has been created under the Plan.

Ganga Action Plan(GAP), which is a part of NRCP, is being implemented in phases from 1985 onwards for undertaking pollution abatement activities in the identified polluted stretches of river Ganga. The total expenditure incurred so far on conservation of river Ganga under GAP Phase-I and II is Rs.938.61 crore. Sewage treatment capacity of 1098 mld has been created under GAP. Despite significant increase in urbanization, industrialization and growth in population in cities along the banks of river Ganga, due to pollution abatement works completed so far, the water quality in terms of BOD (Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand) values are reported to have improved as compared to the pre-GAP water quality at major monitoring locations. The levels of BOD and bacterial contamination (in terms of fecal coliform) are, however, reported to be still exceeding the maximum permissible limit at a number of locations.

Similarly for addressing the problem of pollution in river Yamuna, financial assistance is provided to UP,

Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) in a phased manner since 1993. Under Phase-I and II of YAP, pollution abatement works have been completed in 21 towns of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi at a cost of Rs.1453.17 crore. Sewage treatment capacity of 942.25 mld has been created under the Plan. The water quality of river Yamuna has not shown the desired improvement owing to a large gap between the demand and availability of sewage treatment capacity and lack of fresh water in the river.

(c) In the light of experience gained in implementation of the river action plans since 1985, the conservation strategy was reviewed by the Government. Accordingly, in February, 2009, the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) has been constituted as an empowered, planning, financing, monitoring and coordinating authority with the objective of ensuring effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic river basin approach. Till date, 56 schemes have been sanctioned for implementation of projects in the States under NGRBA at a cost of Rs.3031 crore. An amount of Rs.730.27 crore has been released as Central share to the States, against which an expenditure of Rs.785.16 crore (including State share) has been incurred till September, 2013.

The Yamuna Action Plan Phase - III project for Delhi has been approved by the Ministry at an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore with loan assistance from Japan International Cooperation Agency. Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry at an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana, located upstream of Delhi.

The State Governments, apart from assistance received under NRCP and NGRBA as well as their own budgetary allocations, are also accessing financial assistance for creation of sewerage infrastructure, including setting up of sewage treatment plants, in various towns under other Central sector schemes like JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) and UIDSSMT (Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) of Ministry of Urban Development.

To control industrial pollution, action is taken against non-complying industries under the provisions

of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Under NGRBA, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has identified 764 Grossly Polluting Industries (GPI) in the States on the main stem of Ganga and its tributaries Kali-East and Ramganga. Out of 764 GPIs, 683 have been inspected by CPCB and actions have been taken against 170 non-complying industries under the relevant acts.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR AIRPORT AT ARANMULLA 5th December, 2013 RSQ *7 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government agencies have issued Environmental Clearance for establishing Airport at Aranmulla, in Pathanamthitta Dist. in Kerala; if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the specified process of clearance including Public Hearing was conducted before the finalisation of

Clearance; if so, the details thereof; if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 7 on “Environmental Clearance for Airport at Aranmulla ” raised by Shri K.N. Balagopal to be answered on 5.12.2013. (a) Yes, Sir. The Environment Clearance for development of Airport at Mallappuzhasserry, Aranmula and Kidangannur villages, Kozhencherry Taluk, Patthanamthitta District, Kerala on a plot area of 500 Acres was granted by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) on 18.11.2013. (b) Yes, Sir. The proposal for grant of Terms of Reference (ToRs) to the project was considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) in its meeting held on 21st–23rd September, 2010 and the Committee recommended issuance of ToRs. The ToRs for the project were accorded by MoEF on 13.10.2010. Public Hearing was conducted on 10.05.2011 at Pathanamthitta District Collectorate. The project along with final Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report and public hearing proceedings was considered by the EAC in its meetings held on 21st–23rd September, 2011, 15th – 16th December, 2011 and 16th –17th August, 2012. The EAC, after due consideration of the relevant documents submitted by the project proponent and additional clarifications furnished in response to its observations, recommended the project for grant of Environment Clearance. (c) Does not arise in view of the reply given to parts (a) and (b) above.

PROBLEMS DUE TO POLAVARAM PROJECT 5th December, 2013

RSQ *9 SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Ministry is aware that more than 300 tribal villages are going to be submerged with

construction of Polavaram and two lakh people are going to be displaced in Khammam District of AP alone;

(b) whether it is also a fact that Government of Chhattisgarh has expressed serious concerns on the project, if so, the details of (a) and (b) above;

(c) the remedial measures being taken in this regard; and (d) whether it is also a fact that Chhattisgarh has approached Supreme Court in this regard, if so, the present

status of the issue? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SMT. JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) to (d) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.9 on “Problems due to Polavaram Project” raised by Shri. PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY to be answered on Thursday, the 5th December, 2013. (a) The Polavaram Multipurpose project in Andhra Pradesh is likely to cause submergence in 29 villages in West Godavari District, 42 villages in East Godavari District and 205 villages in Khammam District. A total of about 1,77,275 persons will be affected in the State of Andhra Pradesh as a result of construction of this project (b) & (c) The Governments of Odisha and Chhattisgarh have raised objections to the implementation of Polavaram Project as this will also cause submergence in some areas in their states. To address this issue and in order to avoid such submergence in these states, the Government of Andhra Pradesh has proposed construction of protective embankments on the banks of rivers Sileru and Saberi in Chattisgarh and Odisha. The Government of Andhra Pradesh has also proposed a Resettlement & Rehabilitation (R&R) Plan for project affected persons in these two states.

As per requirement of EIA Notification, 2006, the Government of Andhra Pradesh was asked to ensure holding of public hearing by the respective state governments in Chhattisgarh and Odisha for the proposed protective embankments and submit the outcome of public hearings to the Ministry. The said public hearings are yet to be conducted in the States of Chhattisgarh and Odisha, although Government of Andhra Pradesh has been requesting these two state governments for the same. (d) The State of Chhattisgarh filed O.S.No.3 of 2011 in the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India on 20.08.2011 praying for ad-interim ex-parte stay and injunction restraining the State of Andhra Pradesh from proceeding further with construction of Polavaram project besides setting aside clearances such as Environmental Clearance, R&R Clearance, Forest Clearance, TAC Clearance and Permanent injunction on the construction of the project. The original suit is pending before the Hon`ble Supreme Court. STEPS FOR SCIENTIFIC MANAGEMENT OF ZOOS 5th December, 2013

RSQ *12 DR. R. LAKSHMANAN Will the Minister of Environment and Forests be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has taken any steps for scientific management of zoos across the country; and (b) if so, the details of the steps taken by Government for scientific management of zoos across the country, particularly in the State of Tamil Nadu? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) AND (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NUMBER *12 REGARDING ‘STEPS FOR SCIENTIFIC MANAGEMENT OF ZOOS” BY DR. R. LAKSHMANAN DUE FOR REPLY ON 05-12-2013 (a) Yes, Sir.

(b) The Government of India through the Central Zoo Authority has issued guidelines for scientific

management of zoos by the Operators of the Zoos across the country. These guidelines include theme based management practices for the animals suited to the local climate for greater chance of success, taking into consideration the available space, available financial resources and technical expertise, housing the animals in an open and natural environment, etc. The guidelines cover all the states including Tamil Nadu.

*****

Effects of phenomenal shift of forests 5th December, 2013 RSQ *14 SHRI N.K. SINGH


(a) whether forests are undergoing a phenomenal shift, endangering bio-diversity and causing regional climatic

changes/dynamics in the country, if so, the details thereof; (b) whether any study has been conducted in this regard, if so, the details thereof; and (c) the steps taken by Government to arrest and preserve bio-diversity in the country? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

***

Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (c) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 14 due for answer on 05.12.2013 asked by SHRI N.K. SINGH regarding Effects of phenomenal shift of forests (a) &(b) A study by INCCA (Indian Network on Climate Change Assessment) titled “Climate Change and India: A 4x4 Assessment- Regional and Sectoral Analysis for 2030s”, was published in the year 2010. The report provides an assessment of impact of climate change in 2030s on four key sectors of the Indian economy, namely Agriculture, Water, Natural Ecosystems & Biodiversity and Health in four climate sensitive regions of India, namely the Himalayan region, the Western Ghats, the Coastal Area and the North-East Region. Further the report indicates the impact of climate change on forests including shifts in forest type boundary, change in net primary productivity and biomass and carbon accumulation rates. However, there is no specific study indicating that phenomenal shifts in forests is endangering biodiversity and causing regional climate change/dynamics in the country. (c) Some important steps taken by the Government for conservation of biological diversity inter-alia include: survey and inventorisation of floral and faunal resources; assessment of forest cover to develop an accurate database for planning and monitoring; establishment of a Protected Area network of National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation and Community Reserves; designating Biosphere Reserves for conservation of representative ecosystems; species oriented programmes, such as Project Tiger and Project Elephant, complemented with ex-situ conservation efforts. In addition, Biological Diversity Act 2002 and Rules thereunder aim to conserve biological resources of the country and regulation of access to these resources to ensure equitable sharing of benefits arising out of their use. A National Biodiversity Authority and State Biodiversity Boards have been set up for implementing the provisions of the Act.

*** POLLUTION NORMS FOR MANUFACTURING SECTOR 5th December, 2013 RSQ 11 SHRI SANJAY RAUT Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has fixed standard pollution norms for manufacturing sector in the country, particularly in Maharashtra State; if so, the details thereof; (b) the industries identified which are causing pollution and violating the norms during the last three years in the country, particularly Maharashtra State; and (c) the steps taken or proposed to be taken by Government for effective control of industrial pollution in the country? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c). The Central Government has adopted the National Environment Policy in the year 2006. It says that the setting of environmental standards/norms must reflect the economic and social development situation in which they apply. Setting environmental standards involves several considerations, i.e. risks to human health, risks to other environmental entities, technical feasibility, costs of compliance and strategic considerations. The Government has notified source specific effluent emission norms for 105 different categories of industries and processes. These standards are applicable throughout India, which cannot be relaxed by any other Authority, though which can be made more stringent.

In Maharashtra, the sugar & distillery industries are more particularly causing pollution and found to be violating the norms during last 3 years. Therefore, separate Action Plan prepared for imposing necessary conditions on sugar and distillery industries to ensure the compliance of conditions of consent and for proper operation &

maintenance of pollution control devices. MPCB has undertaken the effective monitoring of sugar & distillery industries. During last 3 years, the Board has taken action against defaulter units & issued closure directions to 184 industries in 2011-12, 320 industries in 2012-13 and 695 during 2013-14 (upto October).

MPCB has imposed appropriate bank guarantees for securing time bound compliance thereof. MPCB has also adopted sector specific approach for imposing important conditions while granting consents and implementing the same in a time bound manner.

GREEN CREDIT SCHEME 5th December, 2013 RSQ 12 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that Government of Gujarat had submitted “Green Credit” scheme to the Government

for approval; (b) whether it is also a fact that though the Minister and the Secretary of the Department have agreed in

principle, yet the scheme is not formally approved; (c) whether approval of the Supreme Court of India on the proposed “Green Credit” scheme has been obtained;

if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and (d) by when the scheme is likely to be formally approved? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) Yes, Sir. The Central Government has received the proposal by the name ‘Green Credit Scheme’ from the State Government of Gujarat. The proposal has been examined in the Ministry however it requires approval of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. The State Government of Gujarat has been advised to approach the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India for obtaining further directions. *** FAST MELTING OF LAKES, FALLS AND GLACIERS 5th December, 2013 RSQ 14 SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether lakes, falls and glaciers mainly in Himalayan region are melting very fast due to climatic change and global warming; if so, the details thereof; (b) whether the destruction occurred in Kedarnath is also due to melting of glaciers; and (c) if so, the details thereof and the preventive measures taken/being taken by the Government in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) As per studies conducted by the Geological Survey of India, the glaciers in Himalayan region are receding at varying rates in different areas. As per these findings, recession of glaciers could result from natural cyclic processes and other factors including, inter alia, global warming. (b) and (c) The devastation in the Kedarnath area is not mainly due to the glacier melt. The combined effect of very heavy rainfall, heavy snowmelt and breaching of the Chaurabari lake in the upstream could have resulted in a gushing outflow with large amounts of debris which devastated the entire valley. The very heavy rainfall in the entire catchment further increased the magnitude of floods downstream.

Government is implementing the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) with a view to enhance the ecological sustainability of India’s development path and address climate change in all regions of the country. NAPCC comprises, inter alia, of eight National Missions including National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system which aims to strengthen the system for observing and monitoring the Himalayan glaciers. Besides, a research centre on Himalayan Glaciology has been established at Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun to undertake comprehensive glacier research in the country. Further, all states including Himalayan states are advised to prepare the State Action Plan on Climate Change to address specific climate change issues. *** SPECIAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE/GRANT TO HILLY STATES TO PLANT OAK AND UTEES TREES 5th December, 2013 RSQ 15 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government is aware that Oak and Utees trees found in all the hilly States of the country including

Uttarakhand, discharge water; (b) if so, whether Government is also aware that half of the population of hilly States is getting drinking water due

to these trees; (c) if so, whether Government would consider to provide special financial assistance/grant to encourage the States

and Non-Governmental Organisations to plant Oak and Utees trees in the hilly States; and (d) if not, whether Government would consider setting up a National level Authority for the development and

promotion of Oak and Utees forests in hilly States; if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Forests in general aids in water conservation and recharge of aquifers positively impacting the water availability in the region. In particular, studies have shown positive co-relation between water recharge of springs and Oak forests. A large percentage of the population in hilly States of the country is dependent on natural sources of water like Springs, River, Streams etc. (c)& (d) The Government does not have any specific scheme to provide special assistance/grant to encourage the States and Non-Government organizations to plant Oak and Utees trees in the hilly States. However under various schemes which support afforestation on denuded, degraded and unproductive land such as National Afforestation Programme, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, Integrated Watershed Management Programme, 13th Finance Commission Award, Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority, different State Plan/ Non Plan Schemes, External Aided Projects, preference is given to local species. The

Government has no proposal for setting up a National level Authority for the development and promotion of Oak and Utees forests in the hilly States.

***

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR 5th December, 2013 RSQ 16 SHRI G.N.RATANPURI

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state : (a) the details of developmental projects given environment clearance in Jammu and Kashmir during the last three

years; (b) the details of the development projects from Jammu and Kashmir denied environmental clearance during last

three years and the reasons therefor; and (c) the progress on development of wildlife sanctuary in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir to rehabilitate ibex affected by

construction of Mughal Road? ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) 13 projects were given Environment Clearance by the Ministry of Environment & Forests in the State of Jammu and Kashmir during the last three years. (b) No project from the State of Jammu & Kashmir was denied Environment Clearance during the last three years. (c) The State Governments are empowered under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to establish a Wildlife Sanctuary. The Ministry of Environment and Forests provides financial assistance to State/UT Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’. No such proposal seeking financial assistance for development of Sanctuary in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir to rehabilitate ibex, has been received in the Ministry.

*****

Annexure-1 Details of the project given/denied environmental clearance in Jammu & Kashmir during last three year S.N. Details of the project given environmental clearance in Jammu & Kashmir during last three

year

(i) Industry 1 M/s Jehlum Cement Kehu Solnari Ltd. (EC granted on 20.12. 2011)

2 M/s J & K Minerals Development Co. Ltd. (EC granted on 3. 05. 2011)

(ii) River valley / Hydroelectric 3. Ratle HEP (850 MW)project in Kishtwar District of Jammu & Kashmir by M/s. Ratle Hydro Electric

Project Pvt. Ltd. (EC granted on 12.12.2012)

4. Baglihar HEP (450 MW) in Ramban District of Jammu & Kashmir by M/s. J&K State Power

Development Corporation (EC granted on 23.7.2013).

5. New Ganderbal HEP (93 MW) project in Ganderbal District of Jammu & Kashmir by M/s. J&K State Power Development Corporation Ltd. (EC granted on 27.9.2013)

(iii) Infrastructure / Construction / CRZ 6.

Environmental Clearance for 4/6-landing of Jammu Udhampur Section including Nagrota Bypass and Udhampur bypass of NH-IA in the State of Jammu & Kashmir by M/s. NHAI (EC granted on 31.08.2010)

7. Environmental Clearance for widening of existing 2-lane to 4 lane from Km 130.000 to Km 188 of NH-IA from Nasiri to Banihal in the section of Udhampur- Banihal in Doda District of Jammu & Kashmir by M/s. NHAI (EC granted on 31.08.2010)

8. Environmental Clearance for Material and Passenger Ropeway project at the Holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Dewiji at Katra, District Reasi, J&K State by M/s Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (EC granted on 31.10.2011).

9. Environmental Clearance for the construction of Passenger Aerial Ropeway Project at Kud - Sangote - Karla (Patnitop District Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir by M/s. Patnitop Development Authority (EC granted on 24.01.2012)

10. EC for proposed Integrated common hazardous waste management facility including incineration at Industrial Growth Centre, Phase-II, Samba, Mandhera Village, Jammu & Kashmir by M/s APR Projects Pvt. Ltd (EC granted on 02.09.2013)

11. Environmental Clearance for construction of Passenger Ropeway project at Jammu between Mubark Mandi to Mahamaya & Mahamaya to Shahbad in the State of Jammu & Kashmir by M/s J & K State Cable Car Corporation Ltd. (EC granted on 06.09.2013)

(iv) Non-Coal Mine 12. Limestone Mining Project of Shri Umar Shafi Trumboo, Tumboo Industries Pvt. Limited located in

Village(s) Bajnar & Khrew, Tehsil Khrew, District Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir - environmental clearance regarding. (EC granted on 09.12.2009)

13. Khrew Limestone Mining Project of M/s Jammu & Kashmir Cements Ltd. located in Village Khrew, Tehsil Pampore, District Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir. (EC granted on 18.06.2010)

PENDING PROJECTS FROM ANDHRA PRADESH 5th December, 2013 RSQ 17 SHRI DEVENDER GOUD T

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state : (a) whether it is a fact that nearly 40 projects from Andhra Pradesh are pending for environmental clearance

before the Ministry;

(b) if so, the details of the status of each of the project; and (c) the reasons for pendency of each of the projects?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) 25 projects of different sectors from State of Andhra Pradesh are pending with the Ministry of Environment and Forests for Environmental Clearance. The Environment Clearance cases are processed as per the procedure prescribed under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, as amended from time to time. These cases are at different stages of processing. The reasons for pendency include inter-alia additional information sought from the Project Proponent, violation cases, etc.

***** PROJECTS OF POWER SECTOR PENDING FOR CLEARANCE 5th December, 2013

RSQ 18 SHRI DEVENDER GOUD T Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that 26 projects from power sector are pending before the Ministry for clearance; (b) if so, the details of the projects that are pending for clearance; (c) the reasons for pendency of each of such project, project-wise; (d) the efforts that the Ministry is making to clear the projects in the current financial year; and (e) how many of them are from Andhra Pradesh and the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (e) As on 30.11.2013, 30 power projects are pending for environment clearance and 81 power projects are pending for forest clearance. While no project proposal is pending for environment clearance from Andhra Pradesh, two proposals are pending for forest clearance from the State. The reason for pendency is primarily due to additional information awaited from the project proponents and the State Governments.

***

DECLINE IN VARIOUS FORESTS/NATIONAL PARKS 5th December, 2013

RSQ 19 SHRI N. BALAGANGA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(d) whether it is a fact that the population of wild animals, especially lions, tigers, elephants, rhinos, etc. are on the

decline in various forests/national parks of our country, if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and (e) the steps taken by Government to protect the wild animals? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) No decline in the population of major wild animals like Lions, tigers, elephants and rhinos in the country has been reported. In fact, their population has increased. As per the latest information available in the Ministry, the estimated population of Lions has increased from 359+10 in 2005 to 411 in 2010. The population of tiger has increased from 1411 in 2006 to 1706 in 2010. The population of elephants has increased from 27669-27719 in 2007 to 29391-30711 in 2012 and the population of rhino has increased from 1817 in 1998-99 to 2414 in 2009. (b) The important steps taken by the Government for protection of wild animals including lions, tigers, elephants and rhinos in the country include: i. Legal protection has been provided to wild animals against hunting and commercial exploitation under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. ii. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 provides stringent punishment for offences under the Act. The Act also provides for forfeiture of any equipment, vehicle or weapon that is used for committing wildlife offence(s). iii. Protected Areas, viz., National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves covering important wildlife habitats have been created all over the country under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to conserve wild animals and their habitats. iv. In order to provide specific focus on the conservation of tiger and elephant, Project Tiger and Project Elephant are functional in the respective Range States. v. Financial and technical assistance is provided to the State/ Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats`, ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ for providing better protection to wildlife, and improvement of its habitat. vi. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been empowered under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to apprehend and prosecute wildlife offenders. vii. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to strengthen the intelligence gathering and enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products. viii. Joint Advisories have been issued by Ministry of Environment and Forests and Ministry of Railways to all the concerned states to avoid death of elephants by speeding trains. ix. Strict vigil is maintained by the officials of State Departments of Forests.

***** SURVEY ON ENVIRONMENTAL SITUATIONS 5th December, 2013 RSQ 20 SHRI D.P.TRIPATHI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state : a) whether Government has made a survey on the environmental situations resulting in natural calamities like the

recently occurred disastrous flood, heavy rain, cloud burst and landslides: and b) if so, the details thereof ? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVORINEMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) : No, Sir. No survey has been done by the Ministry of Environment and Forests on the environmental situations resulting in natural calamities like the recently occurred disastrous flood, heavy rain, cloud burst and landslides.

(b) : Does not arise. ELEPHANT CONSERVATION PARKS 5th December, 2013 RSQ 21 SHRI A.A. JINNAH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) Whether Government proposes to establish Elephant Conservation Parks in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof, location-wise and State-wise including Tamil Nadu; (c) the funds allocated or proposed to be allocated to the said parks; and (d) the time by which these parks are likely to be established? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) No, Sir. (b) (c) & (d) Does not arise in view of the reply to part (a) of the question.

***

SETTING UP OF BIO-DIVERSITY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE 5th December, 2013 RSQ 22 SHRI N.K. SINGH DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that the National Bio-diversity Authority has failed to draw up a list of endangered

medicinal plants; if not, the number of such plants and the steps taken by Government to protect such species; (b) the number of local bodies under which Bio-diversity Management Committees have been set up; and (c) the time by when such Bio-diversity Management Committees are likely to be set up under all local bodies and

the functions of such Bio-diversity Management Committees?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND` FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)&(b) Section 38 of the Biological Diversity Act empowers the Central Government in consultation with the concerned State Government to notify from time to time any species which are on the verge of extinction or likely to become extinct in the near future as threatened species, and prohibit or regulate their collection, and also to take appropriate steps to rehabilitate and preserve those species. Accordingly, a State-wise list of such species, which includes medicinal plants, was got prepared and sent to the State Governments. Following responses received, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has issued notifications for 16 States so far.

The Government has taken several steps to protect biodiversity, including medicinal plants. The Foundation for Revitalization of Local Health Traditions (FRLHT), which is a Centre of Excellence in Medicinal Plant & Traditional Knowledge of the Ministry of Environment and Forests has prepared a list of 335 Red Listed Medicinal Plant species. (c) As per Section 41 of the Biological Diversity Act, every local body is required to constitute a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC). So far, 32,221 BMCs have been constituted in 23 states. All States have been requested to establish BMCs at the local level. As per Biological Diversity Rule 22, the main function of BMCs is to prepare People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) in consultation with local people. The Register shall contain comprehensive information on availability and knowledge of local biological resources, -2- their medicinal or any other use and traditional knowledge associated with them. The other function of BMC are to advise on any matter referred to it by the State Biodiversity Board or National Biodiversity Authority for granting approval, to maintain data about the local vaids and practitioners using the biological resources. As per Section 41 of the Biological Diversity Act, the BMC may levy charges by way of collection fees from any person for accessing or collecting any biological resource for commercial purposes for areas falling within its territorial jurisdiction.

***

PROTESTS AGAINST IMPLEMENTATION OF KASTURIRANGAN COMMITTEE REPORT 5th December, 2013 RSQ 23 SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN SHRI P. RAJEEVE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that Government has decided to implement the Kasturirangan Committee report on Western Ghats, if so, the details thereof; (b) whether Government is aware of the mass protests against the implementation of the Report in toto by the local people in Kerala with the support of the major political parties in the State; and (c) if so, the details and reaction of Government thereto? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a). The Ministry of Environment and Forests had constituted a High Level Working Group (HLWG) under the Chairmanship of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Member (Science), Planning Commission vide office order dated 17.8.2012 in order to study the preservation of the ecology, environmental integrity and holistic development of the Western Ghats in view of their rich and unique biodiversity. The HLWG submitted its report to the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) on 15th April 2013 and it was thereafter put in public domain by hosting on the Ministry’s website. The Ministry has accepted the High Level Working Group (HLWG) Report “in principle” subject to certain stipulations vide Office Memorandum (OM) of the Ministry dated 16th November 2013. A copy of this OM is annexed as Annexure I. (b) & (c). Some protests have been reported in the State of Kerala with respect to the acceptance of the HLWG recommendations. As explained in the OM at Annexure I, the HLWG has recommended prohibition of only highly interventionist and environmentally damaging activities like mining and polluting industries to conserve the

natural landscape of Western Ghats. The recommendations given by the HLWG do not put any fresh restrictions on land use and agriculture in the Ecologically Sensitive Area as identified by the HLWG, neither do they in any way impact the continued occupation of land in possession of the local people and affect their day to day activities and normal livelihood.

*** DEMAND FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A PUCCA BRIDGE OVER RIVER MATHRED IN H.P. 5th December, 2013 RSQ 24 SHRI K.C. TYAGI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that the wooden bridge has been constructed over Mathred River linking Nandla and other

villages in Chirgaon Tehsil under Shimla District of Himachal Pradesh; (b) whether Government will fulfil long pending demand of this village to construct a pucca bridge over Mathred

River to link village Nandla and other villages in Chirgaon Tehsil in Shimla District of Himachal Pradesh as this is unfortunate that the case is pending with Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Himachal Pradesh; and

(c) whether Government will ask the State Government to expedite the case on priority basis for the welfare of Aam Aadmi ?


(a) Yes, Sir. A wooden footbridge has been constructed over Mathred River linking Nandla and other villages in Chirgaon Tehsil under Shimla District at Himachal Pradesh.

(b) An application dated 25.05.2012 of Shri Roshal Lal was received through Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Office vide letter dated 11.06.2012 addressed to Chief Secretary, Government of Himachal Pradesh, but the fact is that Forest Department does not construct pucca RCC bridge/steel foot bridge.

(c) Since the project is within the purview of the State Government, the decision on the project is to be taken by the State Government.

***

File No.10-127/2013-FC Government of India

Ministry of Environment & Forests (F.C. Division)

Subject: Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No.24 asked by Shri K.C. Tyagi regarding “Demand for construction of a pucca bridge over River Mathred in H.P.” to be

answered on 5.12.2013. The text of the Question is as under:

(a) Whether it is a fact that the wooden bridge has been constructed over Mathred River linking Nandla and other villages in Chirgaon Tehsil under Shimla District of Himachal Pradesh;

(b) Whether Government will fulfil long pending demand of this village to construct a pucca bridge over Mathred River to link village Nandla and other villages in Chirgaon Tehsil in Shimla District of Himachal Pradesh as this is unfortunate that the case is pending with Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Himachal Pradesh; and

(c) Whether Government will ask the State Government to expedite the case on priority basis for the welfare of Aam Aadmi ?

Draft reply to Rajya Sabha unstarred Question No.24 on “Demand for construction of a pucca bridge

over River Mathred in H.P.”, which is due for reply on 5/12/2013 has been attempted and is placed below (F/X) for approval please.

(T.C. Nautiyal) AIGF(FC) 2/12/2013

IGF(FC)

INCOME OF NATIONAL PARKS/SANCTUARIES FROM SAFARI 5th December, 2013

RSQ 25 SHRI SHIVANAND TIWARI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the income of national parks/sanctuaries form safari, State-wise or Park-wise in the country; (b) the expenditure, both plan and non-plan, on the maintenance of the parks/sanctuaries in the country;

and (c) whether conducting of safari in national parks/tiger reserves/sanctuaries is not in conflict with

Government policy of conservation of species and forests? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The income of National Parks/Sanctuaries from safaris in the country is not collated in the Ministry. (b) The State-wise details of central assistance provided for the conservation and protection of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries and development of wildlife habitats during the last financial year and the current year under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz, ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ and ‘Project Tiger’ is given in the Annexure. (c) Comprehensive guidelines, namely ‘The National Tiger Conservation Authority (Normative Standards for Tourism activities and Project Tiger) Guidelines, 2012’ have been issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority on 15th October, 2012, under section 38O-1(c) of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 for tourism regulation and tiger conservation in Tiger Reserves. Permitting visitors in forests on the principles of eco-tourism sensitizes the people on importance of wildlife and is therefore, not in conflict with the policy of conservation.

ANNEXURE

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.25 REGARDING ‘INCOME OF NATIONAL PARKS/SANCTUARIES FROM SAFARI’ BY SHRI SHIVANAND TIWARI DUE FOR REPLY ON 5.12.2013. The State-wide details of central assistance provided to National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries and development of wildlife habitats during the last financial year and the current year under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz, ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’(IDWH) and ‘Project Tiger’

IDWH Project Tiger S.No Name of State/UT 2012-13 2013-14

(Till Date) 2012-13 2013-14

(Till Date) 1 A& N Islands 109.50 113.45 2 Andhra Pradesh 180.335 - 404.8904 211.7804 3 Arunachal Pradesh 162.3755 - 420.0872 736.8705 4 Assam 146.00 138.88 373.894 708.906 5 Bihar 64.685 34.8715 311.064 226.86 6 Chhattisgarh 449.5655 408.74 532.4624 539.6387 Goa 148.12 - - - 8 Gujarat 517.926 - - -

9 Haryana 52.00 - - - 10 Himachal Pradesh 318.9668 345.903 - - 11 Jammu & Kashmir 515.957 485.747 - - 12 Jharkhand 81.6195 97.7655 107.44023 251.168 13 Karnataka 434.5018 351.00 933.5311 1853.2555

14 Kerala 1210.08 401.792 514.835 475.672 15 Madhya Pradesh 467.707 440.923 5772.3638 4436.228 16 Maharashtra 425.883 400.143 848.4083 1201.1323 17 Manipur 73.925 - - - 18 Meghalaya 22.08 - - - 19 Mizoram 96.392 188.544 468.31 233.68 20 Nagaland 25.855 15.375 00 00 21 Odisha 368.2084 281.7948 163.756 748.193 22 Rajasthan 478.249 430.884 4090.567 478.688 23 Sikkim 177.579 - - - 24 Tamil Nadu 258.479 258.8328 445.983 753.675 25 Tripura 00 - - - 26 Uttar Pradesh 319.09 260.875 334.055 401.08 27 Uttarakhand 220.27 142.404 160.69 367.429 28 West Bengal 164.135 167.1925 404.916 347.81 TOTAL 7489.4845 4965.1171 16287.25343 13972.0657

*****

ACTION TO PROTECT GREEN COVER IN DELHI 5th December, 2013 RSQ 26 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether large tracts of forest land in Delhi and NCR areas have been and are being encroached upon

by certain individuals/companies; (b) whether certain complaints against such individuals have been received in the matter; if so, the details

thereof with the action taken by Government to control such illegal actions; (c) whether the various Divisions of the Municipal Corporation, Delhi, lack requisite field staff to check

such illegalities; and (d) if so, whether Government has devised some action to protect the green cover in Delhi and its NCR

complex; if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) As per the report received from the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD), no such incident has been reported in the forest area in possession of the Department of Forests & Wildlife, GNCTD. (b) In view of above, question does not arise. (c) & (d) No such report has been received in the Ministry. However, the Department Forests & Wildlife, GNCTD has been making co-ordinated efforts to expand and protect forest area/green cover in Delhi with the involvement of Greening Agencies such as Public Works Department, New Delhi Municipal Council, South Delhi Municipal Corporation, Delhi Jal Board etc. The Department also regulates felling of trees in the NCT of Delhi under Delhi (Preservation of Tree) Act, 1994. There is also a provision for compensatory plantation of ten trees against permission granted for felling a tree in non- forest areas.

*** ACTION PLAN TO CONTROL WASTE OF HOTELS 5th December, 2013 RSQ 27

SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that posh hotels in Delhi and other metros are generating maximum waste/misuse of water which, in turn, has been polluting the environment in the cities; (b) whether certain State Governments have worked out an action plan to control such waste to help ensure clean environment in the cities; if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether Delhi Government has prepared such an action plan for 5-star hotels in the capital city, Delhi; if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a)to(c) The wastewater from a hotel is generated from guest rooms, kitchens, laundry, floor washings, swimming pool, toilets, washrooms etc. The wastewater discharge from hotels varies from 51 % to 93 % of the total water consumption depending upon the wastewater management practices adopted. All hotels have to obtain permission for consent-to-establish and consent-to-operate from the concerned State Pollution Control Board / Pollution Control Committee. All hotels are also required to comply with the prescribed standards notified by the Ministry of Environment and Forests The Guidelines for Environmental Management in Hotel Industry have been issued by the Government. The Five Star Hotels have been advised to take appropriate environmental friendly measures viz. waste reduction, water conservation, energy conservation and follow environmentally responsible purchasing practices envisaged in the Guidelines for Green Hotels. The Guidelines are being enforced for compliance by the Hotels by Delhi Pollution Control Committee / State Pollution Control Boards. The Guidelines for Green Hotels are given at Annexure. ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (C) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 27 DUE FOR REPLY ON 5.12.2013 REGARDING “ACTION PLAN TO CONTROL WASTE OF HOTELS” RAISED BY SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

GUIDELINES FOR “GREEN” HOTELS 1. Environmental friendly measures

Tertiary level treatment of waste water for reuse of water for cleaning, flush washing and

horticulture purpose to save money as well as water. Preference of biological method of treatment over phisco-chemical treatment of domestic and

organic content waste water, reduction of sludge as well as use of sludge as manure. Composting of organic waste through organic waste converter and reuse as manure. Composting of leaves. Development of green belt to create buffer zone from main roads. Preference of gas based boiler over oil fired/coal fired boiler.

2. Waste Reduction measures

Purchase refillable soap, hair rinse and hand lotion dispensers for guest rooms. Donate partially-used product. Purchase towels and sheets made from 100% natural cotton, containing no chemical, dyes or

bleaches. Donate used linens to local shelters or other charities. Reduce the frequency of changing and washing linens. Guests who are willing to reuse their

towels hang them for reuse. Leave instructions. Donate left over, untouched food to local shelters or food banks. Purchase recycling bins for guest rooms or floors. Reuse of left unopened amenities by the next guest. Wait to replace half filled toilet paper, rolls and tissue boxes until they are almost completely

used. Provide guest rooms with unwrapped, reusable drinking glasses and coffee cups.

Check with the local health department about storing glasses upside down on trays, rather than using disposable paper covers.

Replace single-use items with reusable items such as napkins, tablecloths and hand towels. When they are worn, use them as cleaning rags.

Fill smaller reusable containers with cleaning products from larger containers. Use refillable pump spray bottles rather than single-use aerosol cans. Buy supplies from vendors who accept returned containers used for shipping products. To reduce food waste, offer guests the option of ordering half portions.

3. Water Conservation measures Assuming a 50% occupancy rate, a 200-room hotel uses almost eight million gallons of water in a

year. Using water-efficient fixture could save nearly 2.5 million gallons of water a year. Retrofit fixtures in guest rooms and public rest rooms. Use low flow showerheads, bath and sink

faucet aerators and low flow toilets. Operate clothes and dishwashers only with full loads and promptly repair all leaks. Wash clothes and linens in the coolest water that will do the job, hot water is usually only

necessary for heavily soiled loads. Restrict lawn watering to evening hours to decrease evaporation and maximize effectiveness. Install toilet dams where possible. Use soaker hoses instead of sprinklers on your lawns to minimize evaporation.

4. Energy Conservation measures

Cover windows, especially west and south-facing windows, from sunlight with draper, shades or

shutters. Turn off all unnecessary lighting. Encourage guests to do the same with signs in the rooms. Set room thermostats to the highest comfortable temperature in summer (at or over 78 Fahrenheit)

and the lowest comfortable in winter (at or below 58 Fahrenheit) especially in empty rooms. Use weather stripping to close air gaps around doors and windows. Switch to low-watt fluorescent light in place of bulbs. Use fluorescent lighting as much as possible. They are initially more expensive, but use less

energy and last longer and save money. Installation of solar water heating/ parabolic concentrator for cooking/ solar lighting/ solar AC. Preference of use of invertors instead of Diesel Generation Sets.

5. Environmentally responsible purchasing practices

Buy recycled products. Purchase toilet tissue, facial tissues and paper towels made from recycled

paper. Buy cleaning products that are biodegradable. Use recycled paper for letterhead, guest room stationery etc. Use of pollution free electric vehicles.

6. Others

Most of the five star hotels are treating only waste water generated from kitchen and laundry.

Untreated domestic sewage is discharged directly into sewer without treatment. Entire waste water generated from kitchen, laundry and domestic sewage should be treated in a biological STP.

Utilization of treated water can reduce substantial load of water requirement on DJB water supply system and ground water as well as waste water load on sewer network.

Installation of rain water harvesting for roof top and storm water harvesting. Gas based hot water generator and boiler should be used where possible. Hybrid type hot water

generator by using solar water heater be encouraged. Conventional water heating systems be replaced in a phase manner and solar water heating system

be installed. Integrated HVAC system be planned for all the heating, ventilation and A/C requirements.

The oil and grease collected from their pre treatment plant/tank could be utilized to make soap in the organized sector.

***** DAMAN-GANGA RIVER UNDER NCRP 5th December, 2013 RSQ 28 SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Ministry has received any communication from Ministry of Home Affairs or Daman and Diu Administration (Union Territory) for Daman-Ganga river under National Conservation of River Plan; and (b) the action that has been taken by the Ministry to direct Daman Administration (Union Territory Administration) to coordinate with State Government of Gujarat while preparing proposal for Daman Ganga River under National Conservation of River Plan (NCRP) to ambit pollution from this river, as this river is in between Gujarat and Daman? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) No, Sir. (b) This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in pollution abatement of various rivers through the centrally sponsored National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). Representations regarding conservation of river Daman Ganga in Daman (U.T.) were received in this Ministry in December, 2012 and February, 2013. The Administrator, Daman was requested in February, 2013 to formulate the proposal for pollution abatement/conservation of river Daman Ganga as per the Guidelines of this Ministry for preparation of Detailed Project Reports under the NRCP. However, no proposal for abatement of pollution in river Daman Ganga at Daman has been received in this Ministry for consideration under the NRCP.

EXPENDITURE ON CLEANING OF COASTS 5th December, 2013 RSQ 29 SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether Government has reimbursed the expenditure incurred on cleaning of the coasts in the country particularly from Srikakulam belt to Prakasam belt in Andhra Pradesh; and (b) if so, the details thereof during the last five years, State-wise; if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) This Ministry under the Integrated Coastal Management Programme is implementing activities related to Sewage Treatment, Solid Waste Management and Beach Cleaning in the States of Gujarat, Odisha and West Bengal. No activity under the Programme has been taken up in the State of Andhra

Pradesh. Out of the total sanctioned amount of Rs. 16228.69 lakh under these activities, an expenditure of Rs. 2678.67 lakh has been so far incurred. The State-wise break-up of expenditure is given below:-

Rs. in Lakhs Sewerage STP Solid Waste

Management Beach Cleaning

State/Activity Sanction amount

Actual Expenditure till 30.11.2013

Sanction amount


Sanction amount


Gujarat 8596.00 2598.00 600.00 - 60.00 2.50 Odisha - - 999.94 23.62 - - West Bengal 2,246.78 9.33 922.50 24.22 2,812,47 21.00 Total 10842.78 2607.33 2513.44 47.84 2,872.47 23.50

***** BIODIVERSITY TARGETS 5th December, 2013 RSQ 30 SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) in terms of agreement at the UN Biodiversity Meet held in Hyderabad during December 2012, relating

to developed World doubling funding to support the developing States towards meeting internationally agreed Biodiversity targets and main goals of Strategic Plan for 2011-2020, what measures have been initiated to meet the stipulation for developing world to include biodiversity among our national priorities by 2015; and

(b) whether proper structuring of laws that deal with conservation and their implementation in a time-bound

manner, is on the anvil as our experience with following India’s Biodiversity Act is not very encouraging?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)&(b) The eleventh Conference of the Parties (CoP-11) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) hosted by India in Hyderabad in October, 2012 inter alia resolved to double the total biodiversity-related international financial resource flows to developing countries by 2015 and at least maintaining this level until 2020. The CoP-11 further resolved to endeavour for at least 75 per cent of Parties to have included biodiversity in their national priorities or development plans by 2015 and have therefore made appropriate domestic financial provisions. Accordingly, the Government of India has decided to earmark a sum of US $ 50 million during India’s Presidency of CoP to strengthen institutional mechanism, enhance the technical and human capabilities for biodiversity conservation in India, and to promote similar capacity building in other developing countries. Out of Rs. 299.5 crores already approved for the 12th Five Year Plan for Biodiversity Conservation Scheme, Rs. 92 crores are for National Biodiversity Authority, Rs. 50.00 crores are for strengthening of State Biodiversity Boards, Rs. 50 crores are for People’s Biodiversity Registers, Rs. 12.50 crores are for Biosafety, Rs. 45 crores are for CoP-11 and India’s Presidency of CoP-11, and Rs. 50 crores are for South-South cooperation. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has also accessed US$242,000 from Global Environment Facility through a direct access project titled “Strengthening the enabling environment for biodiversity conservation and management in India”. The objective of the project is to provide assistance in meeting national reporting requirements to CBD by India which includes development of national targets in line with the Aichi Biodiversity Targets, revision of National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan and preparation of fifth National Report for Biodiversity.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR SHREE SINGAJI THERMAL POWER PROJECT 5th December, 2013 RSQ 31 DR. NAJMA A. HEPTULLA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has received any request from the Government of Madhya Pradesh for granting

environmental clearance for stage-II of Shree Singaji Thermal Power Project being executed by Madhya Pradesh Power Generation Company Ltd. in Khandwa district;

(b) if so, the current status of the request, along with the reasons for not granting the environment clearance so far; and

(c) the time by when environmental clearance to stage-II of Shree Singaji Thermal Power Project is likely to be granted?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) & (c) M/s M.P. Power Generating Company Ltd. had applied for environment clearance to the Ministry of Environment & Forests in the year 2007 for 4x600 MW Malwa Thermal Power Project at Purni, District Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh. Based on the coal linkage available at that time, the environment clearance was accorded only for 2x600 MW on 01.10.2008 in accordance with the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006. Now the project proponent has informed that they have been allocated a coal block for the Stage-II of the project. Environment clearance for Stage-II of the project can be considered after the environment clearance and Stage-I forest clearance for linked coal mine has been obtained.

***

RING ROAD AROUND GIR FOREST 5th December, 2013

RSQ 32 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Union Government has received any project for construction of ring road around Gir Forest in

the State of Gujarat; if so, the details thereof; and (b) whether the said project is being considered for approval by Government?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)&(b) The State Government of Gujarat had submitted a proposal for conservation of Asiatic Lion and construction of Ring Road around the Gir Protected Area System (Gir National Park and Gir, Paniya, Mitiyala and Girnar sanctuaries) in 2009. Subsequently, after a high level meeting in the Ministry of Environment and Forests with the State Government officers, the State Government had submitted a revised proposal for Gir Protected Area System indicating details of Central and State funding for biodiversity conservation and infrastructure development for Rs 262.36 crores. The revised proposal does not include construction of a Ring road around the Gir Protected Area System.

***** CLEANING OF RIVERS TO MAKE THEM POLLUTION FREE 5th December, 2013

RSQ 33 SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the cleaning of rivers in the country is taking place from time to time like Ganga and Yamuna and other rivers to make them pollution free; (b) if so, the details thereof, State wise, in the Eleventh and Twelfth Plan period; and (c) the amount released and spent for cleaning of each river in the country and the role of the private sector in this regard; if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in abatement of pollution in identified stretches of various rivers in the country, including Ganga and Yamuna, under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) and NGRBA (National Ganga River Basin Authority) programme, for implementation of projects on a cost sharing basis between the Central and State Governments. NRCP, including NGRBA, presently covers 42 rivers in 195 towns spread over 20 States at a sanctioned cost of Rs.9336.87 crore. Various pollution abatement schemes taken up under the Plan, inter-alia, include interception and diversion of raw sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, creation of low cost sanitation facilities, setting up of electric/improved wood crematoria and river front development. Till date, sewage treatment capacity of 4814.80 million litres per day has been created under the Plan. In addition, State Governments, apart from their own budgetary allocations, are also accessing financial assistance for creation of sewerage infrastructure, including setting up of sewage treatment plants, in various towns under other Central sector schemes like JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) and UIDSSMT (Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) of Ministry of Urban Development. (b) Details of funds released by the Ministry and expenditure incurred by the States, State-wise under the NRCP, including NGRBA, during the Eleventh and Twelfth Five Year Plan is at Annexure-I. (c) Details of State-wise fund release and expenditure incurred till September, 2013 under NRCP, including NGRBA, is at Annexure-II. Under the NRCP, a sewage treatment plant at Kolhapur, Maharashtra has been taken up on Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode. PPP model for design, construction and operation of facilities is also being encouraged under the NGRBA programme, wherever feasible.

Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (b) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 33 to be answered

on Thursday, the 5th December, 2013 on ‘Cleaning of rivers to make them pollution free’ Details of State-wise funds released and expenditure incurred under the National River Conservation

Plan (including NGRBA programme) in the XI and XII Five Year Plan (Rs. crore)

S. No. State XI Five Year Plan XII Five Year Plan (till September, 2013)

Central funds released Expenditure incurred

(including State share)

Central funds

released

Expenditure incurred


1 Andhra Pradesh 130.23 206.87 0.00 0 2 Bihar 35.37 17.60 61.38 50.99 3 Jharkhand 0 0.00 0.00 0.00

4 Gujarat 2.13 0.00 41.71 19.45 5 Goa 0.70 2.58 0.00 0 6 Karnataka 5.95 1.26 0.00 0.00 7 Maharastra 24.76 29.77 27.49 11.28 8 Madhya Pradesh 11.00 9.02 0.00 0.64 9 Orissa 28.50 29.10 0.00 3.89 10 Punjab 137.58 181.78 117.61 127.06 11 Rajasthan 40.00 36.72 0.00 10.81 12 Tamilnadu 31.02 71.13 0.00 5.72 13 Delhi 245.39 498.83 0.00 73.19 14 Haryana 42.85 52.91 38.20 11.22 15 Uttar Pradesh 565.32 780.03 160.85 309.04

16 Uttrakhand 55.69 54.38 17.98 32.29 17 West Bengal 304.51 230.72 0.00 100.84 18 Kerala 2.00 0.10 0.00 0.00 19 Sikkim 60.23 59.35 21.65 17.75 20 Nagaland 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Total 1723.23 2262.15 486.87 774.17

Annexure-II referred to in reply to part (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 33 to be answered

on Thursday, the 5th December, 2013 on ‘Cleaning of rivers to make them pollution free’

Details of State-wise funds released & expenditure incurred under the National River Conservation Plan (including NGRBA programme) till September, 2013

(Rs. crore)

S. No.

State Rivers Central funds released

Expenditure incurred


1 Andhra Pradesh Godavari & Musi 259.80 364.48 2 Bihar Ganga 153.45 124.38 3 Jharkhand Damodar, Ganga & Subarnarekha 4.45 1.59

4 Gujarat Sabarmati, Mindhola 131.76 114.53 5 Goa Mandovi 9.26 13.50 6 Karnataka Bhadra, Tunga-bhadra, Cauvery,

Tunga & Pennar 47.83 53.59

7 Maharastra Krishna, Godavari, Tapi & Panchganga

151.21 142.46

8 Madhya Pradesh Betwa, Tapti, Wainganga, Khan, Narmada, Kshipra, Beehar, Chambal & Mandakini.

79.0 78.35

9 Orissa Brahmini & Mahanadi 61.41 70.38 10 Punjab Satluj & Beas & Ghaggar 393.95 550.92 11 Rajasthan Chambal 41.12 48.30 12 Tamilnadu Cauvery, Adyar, Cooum, Vennar,

Vaigai & Tambarani 623.65 885.27

13 Delhi Yamuna 451.94 732.72 14 Haryana Yamuna 269.81 317.98 15 Uttar Pradesh Yamuna, Ganga, Gomti

&Ramganga 1339.40 1756.60

16 Uttrakhand Ganga 99.18 103.09 17 West Bengal Ganga, Damodar & Mahananda 656.22 678.97 18 Kerala Pamba 2.78 1.47 19 Sikkim Rani Chu 90.41 85.22 20 Nagaland Diphu & Dhansiri 4.50 0.00 429.27 433.00

Total 4871.13 6123.80

PLAN TO MAINTAIN TIGER RESERVES 5th December, 2013 RSQ 34 DR. V. MAITREYAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has any plans to extend support to Tamil Nadu State Government to improve and

maintain the four Tiger Reserves which support sizable population of tigers, 10 wildlife sanctuaries, 14 Birds sanctuaries, 5 National Parks, one conservation reserve and four elephant reserves;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the amount allocated and disbursed in the last three years, year-wise and project-wise;

(c) whether Government is providing financial assistance from external funding agencies and from abroad to improve the Zoological Parks and Bird sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the funds provided to each project? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Yes Sir. Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Schemes of Project Tiger, Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats and Project Elephant, funding support is provided to States, including Tamil Nadu, for wildlife conservation. Details of funding support provided under the said schemes to tiger reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, birds sanctuaries, national parks, conservation reserve and elephant reserves of Tamil Nadu, during the last three financial years, are at Annexures-I(a), I(b) and I(c). (c) No Sir. (d) Question does not arise.

Annexure-I (a)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 34 ON PLAN TO MAINTAIN TIGER RESERVES DUE FOR REPLY ON 05.12.2013. Funding assistance provided under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger to the State of Tamil Nadu, during the last three years

(Rs. in lakhs)

Sl. No. Name of Tiger Reserve 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13

1. Kalakad Mundanthurai 119.270 209.8250 143.997

2. Mudumalai 269.792 191.5830 138.795

3. Anamalai 131.725 204.5560 163.191

4. Sathyamangalam* -- -- --

TOTAL 520.787 605.964 445.983

* The Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve got notified recently in the year 2013-14.

Annexure-I(b)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 34 ON PLAN TO MAINTAIN TIGER RESERVES DUE FOR REPLY ON 05.12.2013. Funding assistance provided under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats to the State of Tamil Nadu, during the last three years (Rs. in lakhs)

Sl. No. Name of the Sanctuary and National Park

2010-11 2011-12 2012-13

1 Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary 11.43 12.06 7.77 2 Grizzled Giant Squirrel Sanctuary 31.655 17.54 17.08 3 Guindy National Park 25.37 20.175 19.225 4 Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park 28.064 36.082 26.12 5 Koonthakulam Bird Sanctuary 10.45 6.99 7.44 6 Karanjirakulam Bird Sanctuary 8 8.54 8.82 7 Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary 30.04 15.59 19.19 8 Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary 8.85 5.87 5.44 9 Karikilli Bird Sanctuary 7.44 6.11 7.00

10 Melaselvanoor and Keelaselvanoor Bird Sanctuary

10.27 5.565 5.45

11 Mukuthi National Park 15.67 9.97 8.64 12 Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary 21.66 16.94 15.644 13 Pulicate Bird Sanctuary 10.60 14.78 16.14 14 Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary 13.27 13.73 16.40 15 Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary 14.55 19.23 23.80 16 Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary 9.12 5.97 17 Vedanthangal Wildlife Sanctuary 12.26 2.40 6.76 18 Vellanadu Black Buck Sanctuary 21.96 7.20 4.45 19 Vellod bird Sanctuary 7.28 9.19 9.9 20 Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary 11.40 9.73 2.53 21 Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary 16.36 8.56 12.11 22 Therthangal Bird Wildlife Sanctuary 1.75 5.63 7.16 23 Thirumpudaimaruthur Bird

Conservation Reserve 7 4.16 5.44

Total 334.449 256.027 258.479

Annexure-I(c)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 34 ON PLAN TO MAINTAIN TIGER RESERVES DUE FOR REPLY ON 05.12.2013. Funding assistance provided under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Elephant to the State of Tamil Nadu to four Elephant Reserves (ER), viz. Coimbatore ER, Anamalai ER, Srivilliputtur ER and Nilgiri ER, during the last three years

(Rs. in lakhs)

Sl. No. State 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13

1. Tamil Nadu 226.879 228.49 250.312

***

GOALS OF SDG 5th December, 2013 RSQ 35 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister for Environment and Forests be pleased to state: (a) what are the Goals of Sustainable Development Goals (S.D.G.), what could be possible set for S.D.Gs from an Indian perspective; (b) whether there is any need for convergence between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Millennium Development Goals beyond 2015, post 2015 development Agenda; and (c) the stand of India on these issues?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) The representatives from a large number of countries including India participated in Rio+20 summit held in June 2012. It was decided in the summit to initiate the inter-governmental process for developing global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).It was agreed that the SDGs shall be action oriented, concise and easy to communicate, limited in numbers, aspirational, global in nature and universally applicable while taking into account different national realities, capacities and levels of developments and respecting national policies and priorities. An Open Working Group (OWG) has been formed by United NationsGeneral Assembly(UNGA) on 22/01/2013 with a view to developing SDGs to be agreed by the UNGA. India is represented in this OWG through troika of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The OWG has met for five timesso far. No SDGs have been recommended by the OWG and agreed by the UNGA as on date. The Rio+20 outcome document recognizes the need of coherence and integration of SDGs with the post 2015 Development Agenda. The outcome document also states that the SDGs should not divert the focus or efforts from the achievement of Millennium Development Goals. India agrees with the position stated in the outcome document.

MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND FOREST RESOURCES 5th December, 2013

RSQ 36 SHRI HUSAIN DALWAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether resource constraints have hampered the management of environment and forest resources; (b) if so, the annual budget of the Ministry as percentage of GDP and annual National budget; (c) whether there is a need for significant increase in the investment towards environment protection and

sustainable management of natural resources; and (d) if so, how Government proposes to deal with the situation? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): Yes Sir. Towards implementing the Plan Schemes/ Projects of the Ministry of Environment & Forests, against a requested allocation of Plan funds amounting to � 47,586/- crore for the Twelfth Five Year Plan period (2012-2017), the actual allocation is � 17,874/- crore. Annual budget of the Ministry was � 2,430/- crore (Plan) and � 452.41 crore (Non-Plan), which together amounts to 0.0496% of the GDP at market prices and 0.1933% of the national budget,for the financial year 2012-13. (c) & (d): Yes Sir. Initiatives towards directing investment in the environment, forest and wildlife sectors, include (i) imposition of a cess at the rate of � 50 per tonne of coal for creating a National Clean Energy Fund to finance innovative projects in clean energy technologies and to harness renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, (ii) seeking convergence with existing programmes and Plan Schemes (such as the Mahatama Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, National Afforestation Programme, and the Thirteenth Finance Commission grants) for financing the Green India Mission, (iii) increasingthe participation of financial institutions/ banks in financing voluntary projects, including the bundling of small projects which may reduce transaction costs and increase the average project size, (iv) integrating environmental attributes into cost-benefit analysis while making public investment decisions for more efficient allocation of resources, (v) exploring the possibility of utilization of voluntary contributions and net proceeds of proposed economic instruments (such as user fees for access to specified natural resources) for restoration of environmental resources and cleanup of sites contaminated with toxic and hazardous waste, (vi) exploring evolution of innovative domestic markets mechanisms under the Perform, Achieve & Trade (PAT) Scheme implemented by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency for designated industries under the Energy Conservation Act 2010, and (vii) increasing international financial support, including through the international carbon markets, to be provided to developing countries like India to enable them to take voluntary actions for mitigation and adaptation actions under climate change.

……. INDISCRIMINATE FELLING OF TREES FOR INFRASTRUCTURAL PROJECTS 5th December, 2013 RSQ 37 SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether indiscriminate felling of trees is being done for development of infrastructural projects

without permission in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof along with the number of trees cut for these projects during the last three

years and the current year, State-wise; (c) whether any adverse impact on environment has been noticed due to such felling of trees; if so, the

details thereof; and (d) the corrective steps taken/being taken by Government to check felling of trees? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) &(b) No reports regarding indiscriminate felling of trees for development of infrastructure projects have been received in the Ministry. However, sporadic incidents of tree felling do take place wherein action is taken by the respective State /UT Governments as per the law. Permission for cutting of trees for development purposes is given by the respective State/UT Governments following due process. The information regarding number of trees cut for infrastructure projects is not compiled at the level of the Ministry. (c)& (d) No such report has been received in the Ministry. However, project specific studies are generally conducted in cases involving diversion of forest areas for non-forestry purposes under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and for the cases requiring environment clearances under the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification 2006, issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. These studies assess the environmental impact of the projects and suggest mitigation measures.

******** IDLE FUNDS IN THE CAMPA 5th December, 2013 RSQ 38 SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Supreme Court recently gave directions to the Ministry to unlock Rs. 11000 crores lying idle in

the Compulsory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) and directed for release of Rs. 1000 crores every year to the States for compensatory afforestation catchment area treatment plan and works undertaken to employ the rural unemployed following the NREGA scheme;

(b) if so, the details of action taken by the Ministry so far in Nagaland, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh towards implementation of Supreme Court’s judgement; and

(c) what are the details of Supreme Court’s judgement in this vital aspect? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) By their Order dated 10th July 2009 in IA No.2143 in Writ Petition No.202 of 1995 titled T N GodavarmanThirumalpad Vs. Union of India, a copy of which is at Annexure ‘A’, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India inter-aliapermitted the Ad-hoc Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority [Ad-hoc CAMPA] to release, for the time being, a sum of about 1,000 crores per year for the next 5 years, in proportion of 10% of the principal amount pertaining to the respective State/ UT. Pursuant to the above Order, release of funds as in the statement at Annexure ‘B’ has been made to various States/ UTs on the basis of the Annual Plans of Operation submitted by the States pursuant to the Order of the Hon’ble Court. The State of Nagaland does not participate in the CAMPA. Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (a) to (c) of the RajyaSabhaUnstarred Question No. 38 for 05.12.2013 raised by Shri Nandi Yellaiah regarding ‘Idle funds in the CAMPA’ Text of Hon’ble Supreme Court Order dated 10th July, 2009 in I.A.No. 2143 in W.P.(C)NO.202/1995 titled T.N. GodavarmanThirumalpad Versus Union of India &Ors.

Pursuant to a series of Orders passed by this Court for Afforestation purpose, various agencies had deposited amounts by way of Net Present Value (NPV) when the forest area were utilized for non-forest purposes. This amount is lying with the ad-hoc CAMPA. The MoEF, the amicus curiae and the CEC have discussed the matter and they have come up with a scheme as to how to utilize the deposited amount for the purpose of Afforestation. The CEC has filed a Report framing a scheme and the same has been placed before this Court for consideration. We have examined the scheme and accepted the following recommendations: A) The guidelines and the structure of the State CAMPA as prepared by the MoEF may be notified/implemented. All previous orders passed by this Court regarding this would stand modified to the extent necessary for implementation of the present proposal.

B) Substantial amount of funds have been received by the Ad-hoc CAMPA and sudden release and utilization of this large sum all at one time may not be appropriate and may lead to its improper use without any effective control on expenditure. This Court considers it appropriate to permit the Ad-hoc CAMPA to release, for the time being, the sum of about Rs.1000 crore per year, for the next 5 years, in proportion of 10% of the principal amount pertaining to the respective State/UT as per the conditions given below:

(i) the details of the bank account opened by the State Executive Committee (in Nationalized Bank) are intimated to the Ad-hoc CAMPA;

(ii) the amount towards the NPV and the protected area may be released after the schemes have been reviewed by the State Level Executive committee and the Annual Plan of Operation is approved by the Steering Committee;

(iii) the amount towards the CA, Additional CA, PCA and the Catchment Area Treatment Plan may be released in the respective bank accounts of the States/UTs immediately for taking up site specific works already approved by the MoEF while granting prior approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.

(C) An amount upto 5% of the amount released to the State CAMPA may also be released and utilized by the National CAMPA Advisory Council, for monitoring and evaluation and for the implementation of the various schemes as given in para 19 of the Guidelines on the State CAMPA. It is left to the discretion of the National CAMPA Advisory Council whether it wants to spend money directly or through the Ad hoc CAMPA. (D) The recommendations for the release of the additional funds, if any, will be made in due course from time to time after seeing the progress made by the State Level CAMPA and the effectiveness of the accounting, monitoring and evaluation systems. (E) The State Accountant General shall carry out the audit of the expenditure done out of State CAMPA funds every year on annual basis. (F) The State Level Executive Committee shall evolve an appropriate and effective accounting process for maintenance of accounts, returns and for audit. (G) The interest received by the State CAMPA on the amounts placed at their disposal by the Ad hoc CAMPA may be used by it for administrative expenditure. (H) Till an alternative system is put in place (after obtaining permission from this Court) the money towards CA, NPV and Protected Areas (National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries) shall continue to be deposited in the Ad hoc CAMPA and its release will continue to be made as per the existing orders of this Court.

While carrying out the work of utilizing these funds the broad guidelines adopted by the NREGA may be followed and as far as possible work may be allotted mostly to rural unemployed people, maintaining the minimum wages level.

The CEC may file status reports as regards implementation of the scheme every six months. Annexure-II referred to in reply to part (a) to (c) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 38 for 05.12.2013 raised by Shri Nandi Yellaiah regarding ‘Idle funds in the CAMPA’

Releases State CAMPAs As on 05.12.2013

S.No. State/UT

2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

Date Amount(in Rs.) Date Amount(in Rs.) Date Amount(in Rs.) Date Amount(in Rs.) Date Amount(in Rs.)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

1 Andaman & Nicobar Islands 28.08.2009

10,990,000.00 01.10.2010 7,869,000.00 18.06.2012

5,779,000.00

2 Andhra Pradesh 28.08.2009 897,832,000.00 01.10.2010

1,207,444,000.00 23.08.2011 1,185,700,000.00 06.10.2012

1,196,039,000.0

0 09.07.2013

920,000,000.0

0

3 Arunachal Pradesh 03.04.2010 163,676,000.00 22.11.2010

177,882,000.00

08.09.2011 / 25.10.2011 / 09.11.2011 /

29.11.2011

411,900,000.00 02.01.2013

117,613,000.00

4 Assam 17.08.2009 67,174,000.00 01.10.2010

104,487,000.00 13.02.2013 150,592,100.00

5 Bihar 20.11.2009 77,300,000.00 18.01.2011

86,674,000.00 25.11.2011 80,400,000.00 02.01.2013

84,650,000.00

6 Chandigarh 17.08.2009 1,765,000.00 01.10.2010

1,296,000.00 19.06.2013 1,000,000.00

7 Chhattisgarh 17.08.2009 1,232,135,000.00 01.10.2010

1,341,066,000.00 08.09.2011 995,439,000.00 21.08.2012

1,143,800,000.0

0 09.07.2013

550,000,000.0

0

8 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 04.09.2009 1,682,000.00 28.10.2011

1,536,000.00

9 Daman & Diu

10 Delhi 21.01.2010 18,471,000.00 18.01.2011

13,991,000.00 02.07.2013 10,100,000.00 03.09.2013

20,086,000.00

11 Goa 17.08.2009 121,197,000.00 01.10.2010

102,468,000.00

12 Gujarat 19.08.2009 249,647,000.00 01.10.2010

291,568,000.00 08.09.2011 263,000,000.00 09.11.2012

324,117,000.00 29.10.2013

280,000,000.00

13 Haryana 17.08.2009 191,141,000.00 01.10.2010

188,909,000.00 11.06.2012 164,500,000.00 09.07.2013

160,000,000.00

14 Himachal Pradesh 21.08.2009 366,771,000.00 01.10.2010

421,656,000.00 23.08.2011 /

09.12.2011

571,262,400.00

02.01.2013 /

11.02.2013 /

30.03.2013

524,000,000.00 02.11.2013

535,000,000.0

0

15 Jammu & Kashmir 29.11.2012 237,835,000.00

16 Jharkhand 12.03.2010 950,028,000.00 01.10.2010

1,031,622,000.00 24.11.2011 624,989,300.00

02.01.2013 /

27.06.2013

959,600,000.00 20.11.2013

975,000,000.0

0

17 Karnataka 19.08.2009 585,573,000.00 01.10.2010

509,160,000.00 30.08.2011 /

09.09.2011

415,700,000.00 06.10.2012 437,200,000.00 10.10.2013

345,000,000.0

0

18 Kerala 12.03.2010 17,509,000.00 26.03.2013

13,652,000.00

19 Lakshadweep

20 Madhya Pradesh 17.08.2009 530,482,000.00 01.10.2010

509,656,000.00 09.01.2012 535,209,000.00 27.06.2013

615,000,000.00

21 Maharashtra 22.02.2010 893,549,000.00 18.01.2011

854,893,000.00 16.11.2011 826,300,000.00 06.10.2012

782,123,000.00

17.05.2013 /

27.06.2013

780,000,000.0

0

22 Manipur 08.12.2009 7,456,000.00 01.10.2010

13,350,000.00 11.06.2012 19,134,000.00 22.08.2013

19,729,000.00

23 Meghalaya 20.04.2010 967,000.00 20.11.2013

697,000.00

24 Mizoram 05.03.2013 10,738,000.00 22.08.2013

8,214,000.00

25 Nagaland

26 Orissa 21.08.2009 1,310,618,000.00 18.01.2011

1,401,753,000.00 23.08.2011 /

04.06.2012

1,668,510,050.00 30.11.2012

2,058,244,000.00

27 Pondicherry

28 Punjab 08.12.2009 330,547,000.00 01.10.2010

265,215,000.00 16.09.2011 /

21.09.2011

220,783,872.00 27.08.2012 193,118,000.00 09.07.2013

215,000,000.0

0

29 Rajasthan 07.01.2010 325,908,000.00 18.01.2011

420,698,000.00 11.11.2011 318,913,000.00 25.02.2013

374,298,000.00 20.11.2013

345,000,000.00

30 Sikkim 17.08.2009 80,092,000.00

01.10.2010 / 22.11.2010

102,334,000.00

02.09.2011 / 12.10.2011

90,400,000.00 27.11.2012 8,75,23,000 08.10.2013

95,000,000.00

31 Tamil Nadu 08.12.2009 19,713,000.00 01.10.2010

17,032,000.00 12.06.2012 13,830,000.00

12.02.2013 / 25.032013

11,454,000.00

32 Tripura 12.03.2010 35,418,000.00 18.01.2011

25,848,000.00 12.02.2013 22,770,300.00 10.10.2013

35,000,000.00

33 Uttar Pradesh 10.05.2010 470,962,000.00 16.03.2012

353,505,000.00 22.02.2013 304,800,000.00

34 Uttarakhand 17.08.2009 816,532,000.00 01.10.2010

827,488,000.00 25.06.2012 653,160,000.00

02.01.2013 /

10.05.2013

634,610,000.00 09.07.2013

615,000,000.0

0

35 West Bengal 08.12.2009 52,957,000.00

01.10.2010 / 22.11.2010

62,760,000.00 09.03.2012

48,436,000.00

Total 9,838,830,000.00

10,363,187,000.00

9,430,781,622.00

10,066,878,400.

00

5,690,000,000.

00

INCREASING LEVEL OF POLLUTION IN DELHI 5th December, 2013 RSQ 39 SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN SINGH SHRI SALIM ANSARI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that level of pollution immediately after Diwali is increasing every year and has resulted in a dense layer of smog enveloping the capital; (b) whether it is also a fact that main reasons for increase in pollution level in Delhi is large scale of bursting of crackers, burning of paddy straw in Punjab and Haryana and Delhi’s massive vehicular traffic; and (c) if so, what steps Government propose to take to control the environmental pollution on human health in future?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): Yes, Sir. The main reasons for increase in pollution level in Delhi are bursting of crackers during Diwali, burning of paddy straws in neighboring states, vehicular traffic, industries, constructions of buildings and roads, etc. along with stable atmospheric conditions over Delhi.

(c): The Central Government through Ministry of Agriculture has issued an advisory in December, 2009 to all State governments and UT administrations to advise and educate farmers to curb the practice of burning crop remnants. Government of Haryana has issued a notification to prohibit the burning of crop remnants. The Government of Punjab earlier constituted a ‘Task Force’ in the matter to prevent indiscriminate burning of crop remnants. In addition to this, the steps taken to control air pollution, inter alia, include notifying revised ambient air standards (November, 2009); identifying 43 critically polluted areas (December 2009) after a comprehensive study; notifying strict emission standards for 17 categories of highly polluting industries; increasing use of gaseous fuel for public transport; strengthening public transport and metro rails; low floor buses as intra city public transport; sale and registration of BS-IV compliant passenger cars; sale and supply of BS-IV/III compliant fuel as per Auto Fuel Policy, etc.

*** WORLD BANK ASSISTANCE TO CHECK POACHING 5th December, 2013

RSQ 40 SHRI SHADI LAL BATRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has sought any assistance from the World Bank to check poaching in and

around National Parks and Sanctuaries in the country; if so, the details thereof; and (b) whether any condition has been laid down by World Bank for extending such assistance to

Government; if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) No Sir. The Central Government has not sought assistance from the World Bank to check poaching in and around national Parks and Sanctuaries. However, a project entitled “Strengthening Regional Cooperation for Wildlife Protection in Asia” with the following components

has been proposed for credit of US$ 30 Million from World Bank under Third Phase of adaptable Programme Lending: (i) Capacity building for wildlife conservation and cooperation for addressing the illegal trans-boundary wildlife trade (US$ 20.52 million): This component aims to bring about regional harmonization and collaboration in cross-border wildlife conservation and management, combating wildlife crime through strengthened legislative and regulatory frameworks, well-equipped specialized agencies and systems, as well as relevant training and awareness programs for staff across the range of agencies that contribute to the enforcement of wildlife laws and regulations namely the Wildlife Division in the Ministry of Environment and Forests and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau. (ii) Promoting Wildlife Conservation in Asia (US$2.95 million): The objective of this component is to generate and share knowledge as well as technical expertise by promoting research and innovative approaches on emerging challenges in wildlife conservation. (iii) Project coordination and communication (US$5.04 million): Under this component expenditure of US$ 0.76 million is estimated for project management and monitoring. The remaining amount is to be spent on project communications, wherein a multi-pronged approach will be adopted to communications in order to meet regional and local challenges. However, the credit agreement has not been signed with the World Bank and negotiations have not been held so far.

***

DUMPING OF RADIOACTIVE URANIUM MINING WASTE 5th December, 2013 RSQ 41 DR. T.N. SEEMA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state :

(a) whether Government is aware that the radioactive uranium mining wastes decays to produce

radium-226, which in turn produces Radon gas, a very powerful cancer-causing agent; if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether reckless dumping of radioactive uranium mining waste in Jharkhand is contaminating surface and ground water, putting thousands of locals at risk of developing cancer;

(c) if so, the details thereof and the action taken by government to prevent such contamination; and (d) the details of norms and the procedures followed for granting of environmental clearance to these

uranium mining projects along with the reports of public hearing held?


(a) Uranium ore mined in India is of very low grade as compared to that available in other countries. After recovery of uranium in the mill, the bulk of the material processed emerges as tailings. Its radioactivity content is very low (less than 0.015% of Uranium Oxide U3O8 ). Radon emanation from the tailing is low and reduces to natural background atmospheric radon level of 10 to 15 Becquerel per cubic metre within the fenced area of the tailings pond, which are handled in well-established scientific way maintaining all environmental parameters well within prescribed limits. Hence, the radiation and liquid or gaseous emissions from the tailings ponds do not have any discernible impact in the public domain. (b) No, Sir. (c) Does not arise in view of reply at (b) above

(d) The environment clearance to uranium mining projects is given as per the provisions under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 as amended from time to time. Public hearing is an important component of the environment clearance process.

**** FAST TRACK CLEARANCE OF PROJECTS 5th December, 2013 RSQ 42 SHRI PRAKASH JAVADEKAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the details of the number of projects waiting for environmental clearance in Maharashtra; (b) whether the State Government has sent any recommendation on the reconstitution of the State

Expert Appraisal Committee -1 (SEAC-1) and State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA);

(c) if so, the reasons for the delay in reconstitution of the committees; and (d) the steps that Government contemplates to expedite environmental clearance of new projects and to

fast track clearance pending cases of projects ?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) 4690 projects are awaiting for Environmental Clearance at the SEIAA level in the State of Maharashtra as on 31st October, 2013. (b) Yes, Sir. (c) SEIAA and SEAC-3 have been notified in the Gazette of India vide SO No. 3272 (E) dated 28th October, 2013. As regards SEAC-I, the Ministry of Environment & Forests has sought additional information from the State Government, which is awaited. (d) Generally only one SEAC is constituted in each State. However, considering the work-load and with a view to expediting the environment clearances, more SEACs have been constituted in the State of Maharashtra. Based on the recommendation of the State Government, SEAC-2 and SEAC-3 have been constituted for building construction projects in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and non-MMR respectively. AFFORESTATION PROJECTS IN WEST BENGAL 12th December, 2013 RSQ *101 SHRI VIVEK GUPTA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government is implementing any afforestation projects in West Bengal and if so, the

details of the projects; and (b) to what extent the afforestation projects have achieved their objectives? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A statement has been laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) and (b) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.101 due for reply on 12.12.2013 by Shri Vivek Gupta regarding Afforestation Projects in West Bengal.

(a) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing the National Afforestation Programme (NAP) scheme which is a 100% centrally sponsored scheme for eco-restoration of degraded forests in the country through people’s participation. The scheme is implemented through the State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) at the state level, Forest Development Agency (FDA) at the forest division level and the Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at the village level. An amount of Rs. 62.11 crores has been released till date to the State of West Bengal for afforestation over an area of 45,103 ha. under NAP scheme. (b) The objective of the National Afforestation Programme scheme is rehabilitation of degraded forest lands by institutionalizing decentralized/participatory forest management. The Scheme has been reviewed during 2008 which inter alia revealed that it has given thrust to the afforestation activity in the country and has been successful in mobilizing people’s participation in forest management and development. The Scheme has also contributed in providing employment opportunity to the local people and reducing forest dependency among the vulnerable groups. STEPS TAKEN TO PROTECT OCEAN AND MARINE ECO SYSTEM 12th December, 2013 RSQ *102 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the steps taken by Government to protect ocean and marine eco system by banning and reducing

the use of practice that may cause irreversible damage to eco system and restoring the damage caused to eco system; and

(b) whether any steps in this regard would help in sustaining livelihood of the fishing community

especially women of that community and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

***** Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (b) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 102 on “Steps taken to protect ocean and marine eco system” raised by Shri Rama Chandra Khuntia:” to be answered on 12.12.2013.

(a) and (b) The Government seeks to protect, sustain, augment and restore ocean and marine ecosystems including mangroves and coral reefs in the country by both regulatory and promotional measures. Under the regulatory measures, the Government has issued the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification (2011) and the Island Protection Zone (IPZ) Notification 2011 in supersession of CRZ Notification, 1991. These Notifications recognize the mangrove areas as ecologically sensitive and categorize them as CRZ-I which implies that these areas are afforded protection of the highest order. As per para 8(v)(4)(a) of the CRZ 2011 Notification, Critically Vulnerable Coastal Area (CVCA), which include Sundarbans and other identified ecologically sensitive areas shall be managed with the involvement of the local coastal communities, including the fisher-folk.

The entire Sunderbans mangrove area and other identified ecologically important areas such as

Gulf of Khambat and Gulf of Kutchchh in Gujarat, Malvan, Achra-Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, Karwar and Coondapur in Karnataka, Vembanad in Kerala, Gulf of Mannar in Tamil Nadu, Bhaitarkanika in Orissa, Coringa, East Godavari and Krishna in Andhra Pradesh have been identified as Critically Vulnerable Coastal Areas (CVCA) through a process of consultation with local fishermen and other communities inhabiting the area and depend on its resources for their livelihood with the objective of promoting conservation and sustainable use of coastal resources and habitats.

The Notification prohibits certain activities viz. setting up of new industries, expansion of existing industries, disposal of untreated wastes, ports and harbor projects in high eroding stretches of the coast, except strategic and defence projects.

The Notification permits port and harbor projects in the stretches classified as low and medium

eroding based on comprehensive EIA with cumulative studies for projects. High, Medium, Low erosion stretches and stable coasts are delineated through the assessment of shore line change through National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management.

Destruction of mangroves, for activities other than those specified in the Notification, is

prohibited and attracts punitive action under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. To enforce and implement the CRZ and IPZ Notifications, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has constituted the National and State/UT level Coastal Zone Management Authorities. The Coastal States/UT are also involving departments of forests, revenue and police for taking steps to evict unauthorized land grabbers from mangrove/mangrove forest areas.

Under promotional measures, the Ministry has a centrally sponsored scheme for ‘Integrated

Development of Wildlife habitats to provide financial and a technical assistance to the protected areas including Marine Protected Areas for protection and conservation of wildlife including corals and its habitats. Besides, the Ministry has another centrally sponsored scheme for Conservation and Management of Mangroves and Coral Reefs in the country. Under the Scheme, on a nation-wide basis, 38 sites for mangroves and 4 sites for corals have been identified for their conservation and restoration. 100% central assistance is extended to coastal States/Union Territories for implementation of their approved Management Action Plans which comprise of components such as Survey and Demarcation, Afforestation and Restoration of Mangroves, protection and monitoring of coral reefs, restoration measures for coral reefs and Alternate and Supplementary Livelihoods, Education and Awareness etc. During the last three years, the Ministry has provided financial assistance to Coastal States/Union Territories to the tune of Rs 21.30 crore for the conservation and management of mangroves. The funds are released for ‘Core’ and ‘Ancillary’ activities in the ratio of 80:20. As per the State of Forest Report 2011, published by Forest Survey of India, the mangrove cover in the country stands at 4662.56 km2. Compared with 2009 assessment, there has been a net increase of 23.56 km2 in the mangrove cover of the country. This can be attributed to increased plantations and regeneration of natural mangrove areas.

One successful example of such coral restoration is Gulf of Mannar. In 2002, the Ministry through Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute (SDMRI), standardized viable and low-tech reef restoration techniques for large-scale restoration using artificial substrates like concrete frames, fish houses and native coral species. The reef restoration in the degraded areas in Tuticorin coast of Gulf of Mannar was successful with over 85% survival rate using native branching, table, massive and cup corals (Acropora cytherea, A. intermedia, A. nobilis, A. formosa, Montiopora foliosa, Favia sp., Porites sp. and Turbinaria sp.). An increase of 21% of live coral cover was observed in the restored sites during 2002-2007 & associated flora and fauna has increased 5.99% and 8.08% respectively during the period. Fish abundance also increased from 34 to 65 individuals per 100 Sq. m.

*****

APPROACHES TO PROTECTION OF WESTERN GHATS 12th December, 2013 RSQ *104 SHRI C.P. NARAYANAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the purpose for which Prof. Madhav Gadgil Committee was appointed to study Western Ghats

and whether Government considers that its environment department will be able to protect the Ghats;

(b) whether Government has involved local bodies and people residing in the area in arriving at a programme to save the environment of Western Ghats;

(c) whether Gadgil Panel’s and Kasturirangan Panel’s reports present two contending approaches to the protection of Western Ghats; and

(d) whether Government is prepared to make protection of Western Ghats a multidisciplinary and people participatory endeavour?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATRAJAN) (a), (b), (c) & (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement in reply to Parts (a), (b), (c) & (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 104 for reply on 12.12.2013 regarding Approaches to Protection of Western Ghats raised by Shri C.P. Narayanan. (a) The Ministry of Environment & Forests had constituted the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) under the Chairmanship of Prof Madhav Gadgil on 4th March 2010 to inter alia demarcate ecologically sensitive areas in Western Ghats. Further, in order to examine the WGEEP Report in a holistic and multidisciplinary fashion keeping in view the comments received from the concerned State Governments / Central Ministries / Stakeholders and other related important aspects such as preservation of precious biodiversity, needs and aspirations of local people, sustainable development and environmental integrity of the region, the Ministry of Environment and Forests had constituted a High Level Working Group (HLWG) under the Chairmanship of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Member (Science), Planning Commission on 17th August, 2012.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests protects and conserves the ecology and environment of the country including Western Ghats through the implementation of inter alia the following (i) The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (ii) The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, (iii) The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (iv) The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, (v) The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and (vi) The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and the relevant rules and notifications thereunder. (b) (c) & (d). The High Level Working Group submitted its report to the Ministry of Environment and Forests on 15th April, 2013 which inter alia examined the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel Report in a holistic and multidisciplinary fashion. The report was put in public domain by hosting it on the Ministry’s website for seeking comments of all concerned stakeholders. The concerned State Governments were also requested to give their views. On completion of a transparent process, the Ministry has accepted the High Level Working Group Report “in principle” subject to certain stipulations as stated in the Office Memorandum (OM) of the Ministry dated 16th November, 2013. A copy of the OM is annexed at Annexure-I.

No. 1-4/2012-RE (Pt.) Government of India

Ministry of Environment and Forests

Paryavaran Bhavan

CGO Complex, Lodi Road New Delhi- 110 003

Dated: 16th November 2013

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: High Level Working Group Report on Western Ghats- reg.

1. The Ministry of Environment and Forests had constituted a High Level Working Group (HLWG) under the Chairmanship of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Member (Science), Planning Commission vide office order dated 17.8.2012 in order to study and make recommendations on how to protect, preserve and nurture the rich biodiversity and environmental integrity of the Western Ghats and suggest steps and the way forward to prevent further degradation of the fragile ecology of the Western Ghats. The HLWG was also tasked with the mandate to take a holistic view of the issue and to bring synergy between protection of environment and biodiversity and the imperatives of equity for the indigenous residents of the Western Ghats area, particularly disadvantaged sections of society, so that their rightful aspirations for inclusive growth and sustainable development are also protected and addressed.

2. The HLWG submitted its report to the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) on 15th April 2013 and it was thereafter put in public domain by hosting on the MoEF website, and also disseminated to al l stakeholders including the six Western Ghat States for feedback and comments. All stakehol ders were also invited to offer thei r v i ews on the HLWG report. Thereafter, on completion of a transparent process, the MoEF has taken the following view on the HL WG report:

The Ministry has accepted the HL WG report "in principle" subject to the following:

(i) The definition of the extent of the Western Ghats as demarcated by the HL WG i s

accepted

(ii) The Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) as identified and delineated by the HL WG in Western Ghats is accepted.

(iii)The HLWG has identified approximatel y 37 % of the Western Ghats as

ecologically sensitive. The identified Ecologically Sensitive Area covers about 60,000 sq. km. of natural landscape of Western Ghats and represents a continuous band of natural vegetation extending over a horizontal distance of I ,500 km. The Ecologically Sensitive Area is spread across six states of Western G hats region viz. Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tam il Nadu. The ESA also includes Protected Areas and World Heritage Sites of Western Ghats.

Contd.p 2

(iv)The recommendations of the HL WG to completely ban mining, quarrying and sand mining as also thermal power plants and Red category of industries in the Ecologically Sensitive Area are also accepted.

(v) Hydro Power being a relatively clean source of energy has been recommended to be

allowed in the ESA by the HLWG subject to stringent conditions. This recommendation is accepted by the Ministry.

(vi)Wind energy is permitted in the Ecologically Sensitive Area subject to applicable

regulations. '

(vii) The following category of new and/or expansion projects/activities shall be prohibited in the identified Ecologically Sensitive Area except those cases which have been received by EACs/MoEF or SEACs/SEIAAs before the date of putting HLWG report on the website of the Ministry, i.e., 17.4.2013 and which are pending with EACs/MoEF or SEACs/SEIAAs. Such projects will be dealt under the guidelines and rules applicable at the time of application before the respective EACs/MoEF or SEACs/SElAAs. (a)

Mining, quarrying and sand mining (b) Thermal Power Plants (c) Building and construction projects of20,000 sq. m. area and above (d) Township and area development projects with an area of 50 ha and above and /or with built

up area of I ,50,000 sq.m. and above (e) Red category of industries

(viii) Project/activities which are not specifically prohibited under the ESA shall be scrutinized

and assessed for cumulative impacts and development needs, before granting environment clearance.

(ix) The Forest Rights Act shall be observed in letter and spirit. The consent of the

Gram Sabha for projects in ESA will be mandatory as recommended by the HLWG.

3. The boundary of the Ecologically Sensitive Area as also the regulatory regime would be fine tuned after the draft notification to the effect is placed in the public domain for comments/views of stakeholders including State Governments of the region.

4. The High Level Working Group has noted that a substantial portion of the Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri Districts where moratorium has been imposed falls outside the definition of Western Ghats as identified by the HLWG. The High Level Working Group has recommended the lifting of moratorium in Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg Districts subject to certain stipulations.

5. All the other major recommendations made by the HLWG particularly with respect to financial arrangements to incentivize green growth in Western Ghats, participation of and involvement of local communities in decision making, data monitoring systems especially the establishment of Decision Support and Monitoring Centre for Western Ghats are accepted.

6. As a follow up to the "in principle" acceptance of the HL WG report by the Ministry, relevant steps would be initiated to operationalise the recommendations of the HLWG. A draft notification declaring the identified region of the Western Ghats as an Ecologically Sensitive Area along the lines accepted by the Ministry would be issued and put up on the website of the Ministry for inputs of stakeholders. A High Level Committee of the MoEF will be set up to monitor the implementation of the

recommendations of the HL WG in a time bound manner.

The earlier OM of even number dated 19October 2013 on the subject stands withdrawn. This issues with the approval of the Competent Authority.

(Dr. Amit Love) Deputy Director

Copy to:- 1. PS to MoS (J/C) E&F 2. PPS to Secretary (E&F) 3. PPS to AS (HP) 4. PS to JS (AT)/JS (MS)/Adv (GVS)

ELEPHANT KILLED BY TRAIN HIT 12th December, 2013 RSQ *105 SHRI ANIL DESAI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that a number of elephants are killed in north-east due to train hit; (b) the number of elephants killed during the last two years and the States where it had happened along with

steps taken to save elephants from accidents; and (c) whether the matter has been taken up with the Ministry of Railways, if so, their reaction thereto?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) to (c) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) to (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO *105 TITLED ‘ELEPHANT KILLED BY TRAIN HIT’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 12.12.2013. (a) & (b) The number of elephants killed during the last two years in the North-Eastern States, State-wise is as follows:-

State 2011-12 2012-13 2013 -14

(till date) Assam 7 0 0

However, the number of elephants killed in the same period in North Bengal, which falls in the same region, under North East Frontier Railway is as follows:-

State 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

(till date)West Bengal 3 4 9

(c) The Government has taken the following measures in consultation with Ministry of Railways to prevent accidental deaths of elephants:

(i) A general advisory was issued jointly to all the railway zones suggesting measures to prevent collision of trains with wild elephants. A permanent coordination committee has been constituted jointly by the Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Environment and Forests to share information and monitor the implementation of the advisory.

(ii) Ministry of Railways has also been requested to regulate the speed of trains in identified vulnerable sections.

(iii) Nodal officers have been designated in State Forest Departments and Railways in the vulnerable sections to facilitate quick sharing of information.

(v) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has been releasing financial assistance to the State Government of West Bengal under Centrally Sponsored Scheme-‘Project Elephant’ for construction of RCC watch towers, provision of heavy duty solar lights, high beam search lights, engagement of personnel to man watch towers, and clearing of bushes on the sides of railway tracks for improving visibility to monitor the movement of elephants near the railway tracks with the objective of preventing collision of elephants with trains.

******* INCREASE IN POPULATION OF LIONS AND ELEPHANTS 12th December, 2013

RSQ *120 DR. K.V.P. RAMACHANDRA RAO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

a) whether it is a fact that the population of major species like lions and elephants in the country has

increased, if so, the details thereof; and b) the steps being taken to protect and provide sufficient forest cover so that they do not enter into the human

habitats?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)&(b) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) AND (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO *120 REGARDING ‘INCREASE IN POPULATION OF LIONS AND ELEPHANTS’ BY DR. K.V.P. RAMACHANDRA RAO DUE FOR REPLY ON 12.12.2013. (a) Yes, Sir. As per the latest information available in the Ministry, the population of major species like Lions, tigers, elephants and rhinos has increased in the country. The estimated population of lions has increased from 359+10 in 2005 to 411 in 2010. The population of tiger has increased from 1411 in 2006 to 1706 in 2010. The population of elephants has increased from 27657-27682 to 29391-30711 in 2012 and the population of rhino has increased from 1817 in 1998-99 to 2414 in 2009. (b) The important steps taken by the Government to protect and provide sufficient forest cover so that wild animals do not enter into the human habitats include: i. A total of 670 Protected Areas, viz., National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves have been created under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to provide higher protection to wild fauna and flora covering important wildlife habitats. These areas generally have high importance from bio-diversity point of view and are some of the best habitats for wildlife. They are spread over about 1,61,228 sq km and cover about 20.6 percent of total forest area and about 4.9 percent of total area of the country. ii. Legal protection has been provided to wild animals against hunting and commercial exploitation through the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. iii. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 provides stringent punishment for offences under the Act. The Act also provides for forfeiture of equipment, vehicle or weapon used in committing wildlife offence(s). iv. In order to provide specific focus on the conservation of tiger and elephant, Project Tiger and Project Elephant are functional in the respective Range States. Under this strategy, 44 Tiger Reserves and 28 Elephant Reserves have been set up.

v. Financial assistance is provided to the State/ Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats' , ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ for improvement of forest and wildlife areas like the national parks and sanctuaries to augment food and water availability in forests which can reduce migration of animals from forests to the habitations. vi. Financial assistance is also provided for construction of barriers like boundary walls and solar-powered electric fences around the sensitive areas to prevent migration of wild animals including elephants from forests to habitation.

POLLUTION STANDARDS FOR POWER PLANT 12th December, 2013 RSQ 783 DR. KANWAR DEEP SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether pollution standards exist for each individual power plant in the country; if so, the details thereof, if

not, the reasons therefor; (b) the number of cases of premature deaths and asthma cases that have been reported from exposure to PM10

pollution;and (c) whether the Ministry can reduce the overall pollution content of the ambient airin the country?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a). Effluent and emission standards have been notified in the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 for coal-based thermal power plants and gas/naptha-based thermal power plants. The standards include; standards for effluents and emissions, temperature limit for discharge of condenser cooling water, stack height norms, use of beneficiated coal and utilization of fly ash. These standards are implemented by concerned state pollution control board/pollution control committee in the respective state/UT under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. (b). As reported by Central Pollution Control Board, no reference is available to establish a co-relation between number of premature deaths and asthma cases vis-à-vis PM10 levels in ambient air. (c). Government has taken various steps to control air pollution, which inter alia, includes B.S. IV complaint passenger cars in a number of cities and National Capital Region, supply of cleaner fuels as per Auto Fuel Policy, strict compliance of emission norms in industry, Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate system for in-use vehicles, strengthening public transport and gaseous fuel for public transport in metros as per availability, apart from controlling air pollution in thermal power plants.

********

NEED FOR INTEGRATING ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 784 SMT. RAJANI PATIL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether there is a need for integrating environmental concerns into planning and development

activities across all sectors in all the States for the country; and (b) if so, whether to achieve this there is a need to include environment as concurrent subject in the

constitution, if so, the efforts being made in this direction? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) The National Environment Policy adopted in 2006 is a guide to action in integrating environmental concerns into planning and development activities.

(b) The existing legislations/framework/institutional mechanisms are sufficient to mainstream

environmental concerns in all planning and development activities. The inclusion of ‘Environment’ as a concurrent subject in the Constitution is, therefore, not desirable at this stage.

***

PANCHAYATS AREAS ACT AREAS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 785 SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Union Government has finalised a "two pronged" approach to handle the Naxal Issue by clipping the administrative wings of forest Department in tribal areas to bring a joint forest management committee (JFMC) under the purview of Gram Sabhas and Gram Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 applies; (b) if so, details of the working plan including the amount of finance which would be exclusively at the disposal of Gram Sabhas and Gram Panchayats, for every financial year, on the average, in each of the Scheduled Areas of nine States; and (c) which are the Scheduled areas and which are the States where Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled) Areas Act, 1996 applies?


(a) No such specific “two pronged” approach has been finalized by the Ministry of Environment and Forests for handling of the Naxal Issues. However, an advisory was issued to the State Governments on 29.10.2010 regarding functioning of Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCS) under the overall guidance and supervision of the Gram Sabhas, in the context of the 73rd Amendment to the Constitution relating to Panchayats and of the (Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996. (b) Working Plans of Forest Divisions indicate the various activities that can be taken up in forest areas keeping in view the principles of sustainable forest management. (c) Part C of the Fifth Schedule under Article 244 (1) of the Constitution of India deals with the Scheduled areas. The States where Panchayat (Extension to The Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 applies are Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha and Rajasthan.

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REPORT OF DEHRADUN-BASED FOREST SURVEY OF INDIA 12th December, 2013

RSQ 786 SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to State: (a) whether Government has studied the 2011 Report of the Dehradun –based Forest Survey of India; (b) if so, whether any reasons have been given for the continued shrinkage of Forest Cover over the years ; (c) whether the tribals and other locals habitating in forest areas have also contributed to this shrinkage ;

(d) whether organized wood smuggling with the nexus of forest officials and wood mafia has been substantially responsible for this menace ; and

(e) if so, the effective steps taken in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN): (a) & (b) Yes Sir, As per India State of Forest Report 2011, 14 States/UTs have shown a decrease in forest cover to the extent of 867 square kilometers. 15 States/UTs have registered an aggregate increase of 500 square kilometers. Effectively there is a net decline of forest cover to the tune of 367 square kilometers. The names of States/UT showing decline in forest cover along with the reasons for decline are given in Annexure-I (c) As per India State of Forest Report-2011, there has been a net decline of 679 square kilometers in the forest cover of the tribal districts of the country. Decline in North East Region of the country could mainly be attributed to the socio-cultural practice of jhum cultivation by tribal communities habitating the area. (d) Field verifications of change polygons as reported in India State of Forest Report 2011, do not suggest any large scale decline in forest cover due to organized crime. Further, the Ministry has also not received any information about organized wood smuggling. However, there are sporadic incidents of illegal tree felling in forest areas of the country mostly for the purpose of small timber and fuel wood etc. (e) The following initiatives have been taken by the Government to expand forest and tree cover in the country:

(i) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of

National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for regeneration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in the country. The Scheme is implemented through a decentralized mechanism of State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) at State level, Forest Development (FDA) at Forest Division level and Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at Village levels. As on 31.03.2012, 800 FDA projects have been approved in 28 States in the country to treat an area of 18.86 lakh hectares since inception of the Scheme in 2002.

(ii) The Ministry releases funds under the Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IFMS), for

strengthening of forest protection such as infrastructure, fire protection, demarcation of forest boundaries, construction of facilities for frontline staff and communication etc.

(iii) Under the National Action Plan on Climate Change announced by the Central Government, a

National Mission for a green India has been mooted. The objectives include qualitative improvement of forest cover/ecosystems and creating new forest cover through eco-restoration/afforestation.

(iv) Under the award of 13th Finance Commission, a grant of Rs. 5000 crores has been allocated as

“Forest Grants” to the States/UTs on the basis of their forest cover in the State in relation to the national average.

(v) Afforestation activities are also undertaken under various Externally Aided Projects.

Annexure I

Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) & (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred

Question No. 786 due for answer on 12.12.2013 regarding ‘Report of Dehradun-based Forest Survey of India’

States/UT showing decline in forest cover as per India State of Forest Report 2011

S. No.

States Decline in forest area (in

sq.km)

Reasons for decline

1. Andhra Pradesh 281 Management interventions like harvesting of short rotation crops followed by new regeneration/ plantations, forest clearance in some encroached areas.

2.

Manipur 190 Decrease in forest cover in the State is due to shortening of shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure.


4. Arunachal Pradesh 74 Change in forest cover in the State is because of shifting cultivation and biotic pressure.



7. Kerala 24 Decrease in forest cover in the State is due to rotational felling of Eucalyptus, Teak, Acacia mangium, rubber and shade bearing trees in the gardens.


9. Tripura 8 Decrease in forest cover in State is due to clearings for rubber plantations and shifting cultivations practices.

10. Maharashtra 4 - 11. Chhattisgarh 4 Submergence of forest areas in catchments of the dams.12. Uttar Pradesh 3 - 13. Gujarat 1 Decrease in forest cover in the State is due to private felling

in the Tree Outside Forests areas. 14. Chandigarh 0.22 - Total 866.22

PROJECTS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF RING ROAD 12th December, 2013 RSQ 787 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: a) whether Union Government has received any project for construction of ring road around Gir Forests in the

State of Gujarat; if so, the details thereof; and

b) whether the said projects is being considered for approval by Government?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) The State Government of Gujarat had submitted a proposal for conservation of Asiatic Lion and construction of Ring Road around the Gir Protected Area System (Gir National Park and Gir, Paniya, Mitiyala and Girnar Sanctuaries) in 2009. Subsequently, after a high level meeting in the Ministry of Environment and Forests with the State Government officers, the State Government had submitted a revised proposal for Gir Protected Area System indicating details of Central and State funding for biodiversity conservation and infrastructure development for Rs.262.36 crores. The revised proposal does not include construction of a Ring road around the Gir Protected Area System.

*** FUNDS UNDER GREEN INDIA MISSION 12th December, 2013 RSQ 788

DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government under the ‘Green India Mission’ scheme received funds/allocations during the last three years;

(b) if so, the details of the funds received for the scheme in the last three years, year-wise; (c) to what extent the ‘Green India Mission’ achieved its targets to improve forest cover; and (d) whether the audit of the funds utilization has been done, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) Yes, Sir. The ‘Green India Mission’ scheme was allocatedRs200crores, under National Clean Energy Fund during 2011-12,Rs. 100 croresunder plansduring 2012-13 and Rs. 100 crores during 2013-14. Rs.49.95 crores were released out of allocation made under National Clean Energy Fund in year 2011-12 in respect of 21 States for preparatory activities to be undertaken under the Mission. These activities include identification of Landscapes, setting up of mission organization, awareness, micro-plan preparation, baseline survey, preparation of perspective plan of the landscape, and entry point activities etc.Rs 100 crores each allocated under plan during 2012-13 and 2013-14 could not be utilized due to lack of Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) and Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approvals. Recently, the EFC Committee under the Chair of Secretary, Department of Expenditure and Ministry of Finance has approved the Mission with proposed expenditure of Rs. 13000 crores during 12th plan and one year spillover in 13th Plan. The audit of the funds utilization has been done as per procedure laid down.

*** ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR KGS ARANMULA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 12th December, 2013 RSQ 789 SHRI M.P ACHUTHAN SHRI D.RAJA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that Government has given final environmental clearance for the privately promoted

KGS Aranmula International Airport in Kerala, if so, the details thereof; (b) whether it is a fact that several local environmental organisations had raised objections against giving

environmental clearance for the project; and (c) if so, what were the main objections and Government's reaction to these objections? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) The environmental clearance for development of Airport at Mallappuzhasserry, Aranmula and Kidangannur villages, Kozhencherry Taluk, Patthanamthitta District, Kerala was granted on 18.11.2013 after following due procedure under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006. Earlier, the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) in its meeting held on 21st–23rd September, 2010 recommended issuance of ToRs. The ToRs for the project were accorded on 13.10.2010. Public Hearing was conducted on 10.05.2011 at Pathanamthitta District Collectorate. The project along with final Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report and public hearing proceedings was considered by the EAC in its meetings held in September, 2011, December, 2011 and August, 2012. The EAC, after due consideration of the relevant documents submitted by the project proponent and additional clarifications furnished in response to its observations, recommended the project for grant of Environment Clearance. Several representations were received against the project. The main objections were that the project area includes wetlands and paddy fields. The information/ clarifications provided by the Project Proponent and the State Government of Kerala on the issues raised in the representations were examined. The State Government has notified the project site for the development of the Airport and stated that the project site is not a notified wetland and decline in agricultural activities and change in land use pattern contributed to paddy fields becoming fallow lands and lying as such for years together. After

examination of all relevant facts, the environmental clearance to the project was granted stipulating various environmental safeguards.

*****

REPRESENTATION OF INDUSTRY IN THE COMMITTEE TO ASSESS THE ECOLOGY 12th December, 2013 RSQ 790 DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Government is contemplating to set up a committee to look into the issue relating

to ecology impact on Hydro Power projects in Uttarakhand that witnessed devastating flash floods recently, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) the stand of Government in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Ministry of Environment & Forests has constituted an Expert Body in accordance with the directions issued by the Hon’ble Supreme Court vide judgment dated 13.08.2013 to make a detailed study as to whether hydroelectric power projects existing and under construction in the river basins of Alaknanda, Bhagirathi and their tributaries have contributed to environmental degradation and, if so, to what extent and also whether they have contributed to the tragedy that occurred in Uttarakhand in the month of June, 2013. The committee will also examine the impact of the proposed 24 hydropower projects on the biodiversity of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi river basins.

***** VIOLATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL NORMS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 791 SHRI ALOK TIWARI SMT. KUSUM RAI SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:- (a) whether serious violations of environmental norms and illegal constructions by hospitality and tourism

companies without prior approval of Government have been reported in the restricted areas of Aravalis in Haryana and Rajasthan, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether Government has inquired into the violation of green norms in the Aravalis; (c) if so, the details thereof along with the details of penal action taken against the violators, if not, the

reasons therefor; and (d) the details of steps Government would take to check flouting of environmental norms in the Aravalis?

ANSWER MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Yes Sir (c) & (d) As per the information provided by the Governments of Haryana and Rajasthan, a number of cases of violations have been observed in the two States. Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has identified 9 cases of violations against hospitality/tourism companies and action has been initiated against the

violators. In addition, HSPCB has also identified 557 nos. of violations by the project proponents/individuals for starting construction activities without the requisite clearance and filed cases of prosecution against 380 violators in the Special Environment Court at Faridabad. Similarly, Government of Rajasthan has issued directions for closure of two hotels for constructing additional rooms without prior clearance. The State Forest Department has also registered a case against a hotel under Section 26 of Rajasthan Forest Act for violation of terms and conditions of the clearance.

*****

FUNDS UNDER COMPENSATORY AFFORESTATION FUND 12th December, 2013 RSQ 792 SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH SHRI PRABHAT JHA SMT. KUSUM RAI SHRI ALOK TIWARI

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

(a) the details of funds allocated, released and utilized under Compensatory Afforestation Fund during last five

years, year-wise and State-wise ; (b) whether 1,14,877 hectares of forest land has been diverted for non-forestry use during 2006 to 2012, if so,

the details thereof, State-wise ; and (c) whether user agencies have provided non-forest land for compensatory afforestation during 2006 to 2012 as

per norms, if so, the details thereof, State-wise, if not the reasons therefor?


(a) A statement of releases made to the State CAMPAs is at Annexure ‘A’. Optimum utilization of funds is

now being ensured by means of a condition that further releases to the State CAMPAs is made only if the State CAMPAs concerned have been able to utilize 70% or more of the funds released in the earlier years;

(b) A State-wise statement of diversion of forest land for non-forest use, under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 is at Annexure ‘B’;

(c) In terms of the rules and guidelines, the requirement of providing non-forest land in lieu of forest land diverted, is not unexceptionable. Depending on the area of forest land diverted, the nature of the User Agency, and the purpose of diversion, exceptions from the requirement to provide alternate non-forest land are provided.

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WORKING TO REPLACE KYOTO PROTOCOL 12th December, 2013

RSQ 794 SMT. WANSUK SYIEM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether India along with other developing nations is working towards forging a treaty by 2015 to replace

the Kyoto Protocol, the only global pact limiting fossil fuel emissions; (b) whether India is pleading to developed nations to pledge an aid of $100 billion a year commensurate with the

levels of their own emissions before asking the poorer nations to set their own targets; and (c) whether 1997 Kyoto agreement leaves out the developing nations to make voluntary contributions while

setting emissions levels for richer nations?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN):

(a) In Durban during the seventeenth meeting of the Conference of Parties (COP 17), held in 2011, the Parties (including India) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) decided to launch a process to develop a protocol, another legal instrument oran agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention applicable to all Parties and adoptit at its twenty-first session in 2015. This arrangement will come into effect from 2020. (b) According to the Cancun Decisions,taken during the sixteenth meeting of Conference of Parties in 2010, developed countries took a collective commitment to provide new and additional resources by mobilizing jointly USD 100 billion per year by 2020 to address the needs of developing countries. Developing Countries including India has maintained that the developed country parties must fulfill their commitments under the Convention. (c) Yes, Sir. The 1997 Kyoto Protocol recognizes that rich and developed countries are responsible for high levels of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and has put emissions reduction targets of GHGs on these countries, without imposing any mandatory GHG emission reduction targets on developing countries.

*** TIGER RESERVES IN CORE AREAS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 795 SHRI C.M. RAMESH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether tourism activities have been allowed in core areas of Tiger Reserves across the country after

lifting of ban by Supreme Court; and (b) if so, the details of Guidelines issued by the Ministry in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) A set of comprehensive guidelines has been issued under section 38O-1(c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for tiger conservation and tourism in Tiger Reserves, which allows regulated tourism in core areas of Tiger Reserves. The said guidelines are available in public domain at www.projecttiger.nic.in, which, interalia, cover ecotourism with a view to benefit local people and wildlife.

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AMOUNT DEPOSITED BY GUJARAT GOVERNMENT IN CAMPA 12th December, 2013 RSQ 796 SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA


(a) whether it is a fact that Gujarat State has deposited Rs.659.51 crores upto dated 4th January, 2013 in ad-

hoc CAMPA of Central Government; (b) whether it is also a fact that so far, only Rs.112.83 crores have been released against deposited amount of

Rs.659.52 crores; (c) if so, whether Government intends to transfer the amount of Rs.659.51 crores deposited by Central State

into the account of Gujarat State CAMPA; and (d) what action has been taken , so far, to return back the total amount into Gujarat State CAMPA?


(a) against forest land diverted in Gujarat State, a total amount of Rs.652,14,84,361.00 has been deposited in the accounts maintained by the Ad-hoc CAMPA, in the name of Gujarat CAMPA, upto 4th January 2013. On 5th January 2013 an amount of Rs.7,36,05,744.00 was deposited, bringing the total principal deposits in the accounts held in the name of Gujarat State CAMPA, to Rs.659,50,90,105.00 ; (b) a total amount of Rs.140,83,32,000.00 viz., Rs.24,96,47,000.00 on 19th August 2009; Rs.29,15,68,000.00 on 1st October 2010; Rs.26,30,00,000.00 on 8th September 2011; Rs.32,41,17,000.00 on 9th November 2012 and Rs.28,00,00,000.00 on 29th October 2013, have been released to the Gujarat State CAMPA; (c)&(d) since the compensatory levies are held in State specific accounts pursuant to the Orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in Writ Petition No.202/1995 titled T N Godavarman Thirumalpad Vs. Union of India & Ors, the transfer of the entire funds to the State of Gujarat will be possible only subject to the Hon’ble Court permitting such transfers. No such enabling Court orders presently exist.

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PROJECTS UNDERTAKEN BY YAMUNA ACTION PLAN 12th December, 2013 RSQ 797 SHRI BHUPENDER YADAV Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the total number of projects undertaken by the Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) and the National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD) in various towns and cities since their inception and the present status thereof; and (b) whether it is a fact that a large number of these projects have not commenced till date, and if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD), under the Ministry of Environment & Forests, is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in abatement of pollution in identified stretches of various rivers under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) and National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) programme as well as conservation of lakes under the National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP). 1190 schemes have been completed out of 1421 schemes sanctioned so far under NRCP and NGRBA in 195 towns along 42 rivers in 20 States. This includes 297 completed schemes out of 307 sanctioned schemes under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP). Similarly under the NLCP, schemes for conservation of 61 lakes in 14 States have been sanctioned, out of which work in 27 lakes have been completed so far. Works in majority of the balance sanctioned schemes are in various stages of implementation. Under the NRCP & NGRBA, work in 20 schemes in the States of Rajasthan, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu has not commenced due to issues relating to land acquisition, court cases, cost over-runs and other local administrative reasons.

*******

PROJECTS APPROVED BY NCDMS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 798 SHRI N.K. SINGH DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of projects approved by the National Clean Development Mechanism Authority (NCDMA) of

Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) status as on 2012; (b) the number of projects approved by the CDM Executive Board, which is the supervisory arm of the United

National Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC); and (c) whether there is any mismatch between the number of projects approved by the NCDMA and the CDM

Executive Board, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) As on 31 December, 2012, the National CDM Authority (NCDMA) has accorded Host Country Approval (HCA) to 2786 CDM projects. During the same period, 1370 Indian projects have been successfully registered by the CDM Executive Board under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Under the CDM project cycle, NCDMA approval is prerequisite and mandatory for registering the CDM project under the UNFCCC. As NCDMA approval and Registration under the UNFCCC are two different processes, there is no mismatch between the number of projects approved by the NCDMA and the projects registered under the CDM Executive Board.

****

ILLEGAL ISLAND RESORTS BUILT IN VEMBANADU LAKE

12th December, 2013 RSQ 799 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the unauthorised, illegal island resorts built in Vembanadu lake, a Ramsar wetland of

international significance have come to the notice of the Ministry, if so, the details thereof; and (b) the action Government is planning to take against the people responsible for this violation of law?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. Hon’ble High Court of Kerala vide Judgement dated the 27.07.2013 directed demolition of all the constructions found to be in violation of the CRZ Notification. M/s Vaamika Island (Green Lagoon Resorts) had filed SLP in the Hon’ble Supreme Court against the Judgement and the same was dismissed. M/s Kapico Kerala Resorts Pvt. Ltd. filed petition seeking review of the Judgement by the Hon’ble High Court of Kerala. A Co-operative Society of local fisherman in that area has also filed a petition seeking leave of the court to maintain a review petition primarily contending the order to demolition stating that it will have serious consequences on the environment in general and fishing in particular.

*****

REASONS FOR NOT CONVERTING A SMALL FOREST LAND TO PANCHAYAT LAND 12th December, 2013 RSQ 800 SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the seasons for not converting a small stretch of forest land into Panchayat land located close to Narapally Village Panchayat office under Ranga Reddy district considering the fact that vast area of forest land is already existing; and

(b) whether it is not a fact that deforestation of this small piece of forest land would be materialized for the benefit of its Gram Panchayat Office and its population?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) It has been informed by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF), Government of Andhra Pradesh that the present Panchayat office of Narapally located close to Narapally village of Ranga Reddy District is falling out side of the existing Narepally-I Reserve Forest block having an extent of area 186.57 hectares which is already notified under section 15 of the Andhra Pradesh Forest Act, 1967 and published in Andhra Pradesh Gazette No. 20, dated 17th May 2012. (b) In view of reply to part (a) above, reply to part (b) does not arise.

*****

THICK FOG DUE TO FIRE-CRACKERS AFTER DIWALI 12th December, 2013 RSQ 801 SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN SINGH SHRI SALIM ANSARI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is fact that every year after Diwali, the National Capital of Delhi is covered by spell of thick fog

due to fire-crackers increasing significantly the air pollution level, if so, complete details in this regard; (b) whether fluctuating and polluted whether condition after Diwali cause severe health hazards that harm

throat track and cause breathing problems, etc.; and (c) if so, the steps Government proposes to take to ban the bursting of crackers in Delhi? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a). Ambient air quality in Delhi is monitored by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Board, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and National Environmental Engineering Institute (NEERI). As per the data provided by CPCB, the levels of Nitrogen Dioxide were higher on next day of Diwali than the Diwali day during last three years. However, levels of Sulphur Dioxide and Particulate Matter have size less than 10 micron (PM10) were lower. Formation of fog is associated with stable metrological conditions in atmosphere. (b). As reported by CPCB, conclusive reference is not available that fluctuating and polluted weather condition after Diwali causes severe health hazards that harm throat track and cause breathing problems. (c). Noise limits for sound making fire crackers at manufacturing stage have been notified and implemented by Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation. Advertisements are issued for public awareness on the occasion of Diwali. Awareness programmes among students are undertaken through Eco Clubs in Delhi by Government of NCT Delhi.

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FUNDS EARMARKED TO REDUCE THE POLLUTION 12th December, 2013 RSQ 802 SHRI Y.S. CHOWDARY

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the details of funds earmarked by the Ministry to reduce the pollution in Yamuna during the last three years; (b) the details of amount spent during the last three years; and (c) whether Government is satisfied with the result achieved so far and if not, the steps taken by Government in this regard? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. The Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna by providing financial assistance to Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) since 1993 in a phased manner. A total expenditure of Rs. 1453.17 crore (including State share) has been incurred on schemes pertaining to sewerage/interception and diversion of drains, sewage treatment plants (STPs), low cost sanitation/community toilet complexes, electric/improved wood crematoria, etc under YAP Phase-I & II in the three States. Further, YAP Phase – III project for Delhi has been approved with an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore. Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) with at an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana.

The details of fund released by this Ministry during the last three years for conservation of river Yamuna under YAP and expenditure incurred by the States is as under:-

In addition, State Governments are also accessing financial assistance for creation of sewerage infrastructure, including setting up of STPs in various towns under Central sector schemes like JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) and UIDSSMT (Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) of Ministry of Urban Development.

The water quality of river Yamuna has not shown the desired improvement due to large gap between the sewage generation and availability of sewage treatment capacity and lack of fresh water in the river.

***** FUNDS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION ABATEMENT 12th December, 2013 RSQ 803 SHRIMATI RAJANI PATIL SHRI K.C. TYAGI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government provides funds under various schemes for industrial as well as environmental pollution

abatement to the implementing agencies including State Governments; (b) if so, the details of the major works undertaken during the last three years and the current year, agency-wise; (c) the mechanism in place to ensure regular monitoring of quality of works undertaken by these agencies; and

Year Fund released (Rs. Crore)

Expenditure incurred, including State Share (Rs. Crore)

2010 – 2011 111.49 198.64

2011 – 2012 49.06 125.18 2012 – 2013 41.83 80.03

(d) whether any assessment has been made in regard to the success achieved thereby and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a)& (b) The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has been implementing a number of schemes for industrial as well as environmental pollution abatement under which financial assistance is provided to the State implementing agencies. These schemes are on-going in nature and include the following Centrally Sponsored/Central Sector Schemes:

(I) National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) (a) National River Conservation Programme (b) National Lake Conservation Plan (c) National Ganga River Basin Authority (II) Pollution Abatement The major work undertaken under the NRCP includes setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs)

and sewerage networks. Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) and Common Treatment Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs) for hazardous waste are established under the Pollution Abatement scheme. The details of projects of the last three years and the current year are given in Annexure. (c) & (d) The work done under the schemes is regularly monitored / reviewed by the Ministry. Officers of the Ministry and Central Pollution Control Board visit the States to monitor progress of schemes. Monitoring process, inter alia, includes mandatory audit of accounts of grantee organization, submission of audited utilization certificates, expenditure statement and a progress report on the activities conducted by the grantee organization besides field visits by officers of the Ministry. The National River Conservation Directorate has a detailed Management Information System for monitoring in place. Regional offices of the Ministry also review/monitor and take follow up action on various issues/programmes. A third-party inspection system has also been introduced.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) & (b) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 803 DUE FOR REPLY ON 12.12.2013 REGARDING “FUNDS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION ABATEMENT” RAISED BY SHRIMATI RAJANI PATIL AND SHRI K.C. TYAGI.

(Rs. in crore)

Name of major schemes

Projects sanctioned

2010-11

2011-12

2012-13

2013-14 (Till November-

2013) Capacity/Unit

Funds

released

States Capacity/Unit

Funds

released


Funds

released


Funds

released

States

National River Conservation Programme (including National River Ganga Basin Authority (NRGBA)

STP* 352

MLD

657.05

Bihar, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab Delhi, Haryana, UP, Uttrakhand, West Bengal, Sikkim

STP* 241

MLD

187.46

Delhi, UP, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Orissa, Punjab

STP* 119

MLD

270.60

Gujarat, Maharshtra, Punjab, Haryana, U.P, Uttarakhand, Sikkim

STP* 26

MLD

216.26

U.P, Uttarakahan, Bihar, Maharashtra and Punjab

National Lake Conservation Plan

01 49.96

J&K, Karnata

ka, Maharashtra,

Rajasthan,

Uttrakhand

U.P. , West

Bengal

- 79.90

J&K, U.P.,

Rajasthan, A.P.

West Bengal,

Maharashtra,

- 52.30

Rajasthan,

West Bengal and U.P

- 32.86

J & K, Nagala

nd

Common Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facilities (TSDFs)

03 2.20 Madhya

Pradesh, Kerala

and West

Bengal

01 1.2 Maharashtra

01 0.20 Uttar Pradesh

02 1.42 Himachal

Pradesh and

Uttar Pradesh

Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs)

04 5.69 Maharashtra and

Gujarat

02 2.70 Maharashtra and

Gujarat

01 4.20 Gujarat 04 5.65 Gujarat,

Andhra Pradesh

* Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) - capacity created in Million Litres per Day (MLD)

*****

MINING ACTIVITIES IN CRZ AREAS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 804 SMT. SMIRITI ZUBRIN IRANI

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that the mining of limestone and other similar minerals is prohibited within the CRZ

areas as it was prohibited as per earlier CRZ notification,1991; (b) whether there is any scientific study/ base for prohibiting limestone and other such minerals mining in

CRZ area; (c) whether mining for limestone and other similar mineral can be permitted, where there is an elevated

coastal area as well as a cliff kind of structure; (d) whether it is a fact that some State Governments have taken up the issue of allowing the mining

activities in the CRZ areas subject to strict compliance of environmental protection measures and also based on the technical studies for above mentioned areas; and

(e) what decision has been taken by Government in this regard?


(a) to (c) The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2011 prohibits the mining of sand, rocks and other substrata material including limestone except rare minerals like monazite and exploration of oil and natural gas. This provision has been made in view of likely adverse impact of such mining on the coastal environment. The provision is uniformly applicable in the whole CRZ area including elevated coastal areas. The earlier CRZ Notification 1991 also had similar provisions. While finalizing the CRZ Notification, 2011 inputs from various Stakeholders including the State Governments were taken into consideration. (d) No, Sir. (e) Does not arise in view of the reply to part (d) above.

*****

PROJECT FOR CRZ CLEARANCE

12th December, 2013

RSQ 805 SMT. SMIRITI ZUBRIN IRANI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that GOI has made it mandatory to prepare Comprehensive EIA report for obtaining

CRZ clearance in the low and medium erosion stretches; (b) whether Ministry has put up such restriction based on any scientific study, if so, the details thereof; (c) whether any State Government has requested GOI to consider the project for CRZ clearance based on

Rapid EIA instead of comprehensive EIA report in low and medium erosion areas; and (d) if so, whether the Ministry is considering to make any amendment in CRZ notification, 2011? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b) According to the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2011, project proposals in low and medium eroding stretches shall be accompanied by Comprehensive Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) with cumulative studies. The Ministry of Environment and Forests had notified the CRZ Notification for the mainland and the Island Protection Zone Notification for Andaman and Nicobar as well as Lakshadweep islands in January, 2011 in supersession of the CRZ Notification, 1991 after detailed review through an Expert Committee headed by Prof M.S. Swaminathan and extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including the State Governments. The opinion and suggestions from various stakeholders were taken into consideration while finalizing the CRZ Notification, 2011. (c) and (d) The Government of Gujarat has requested to consider projects for CRZ clearance in low and medium eroding coastal stretches based on rapid EIA instead of comprehensive EIA Report.

As rapid EIA may not address all the environmental concerns to conserve and protect coastal stretches and promote development in a sustainable manner based on scientific principles, comprehensive EIA studies are essential before considering proposals in low and medium eroding stretches. The requirement of comprehensive EIA studies in such stretches is uniformly applicable throughout the country.

****

STEPS TAKEN TO REDUCE NOISE POLLUTION 12th December, 2013 RSQ 806 SHRI BALWINDER SINGH BHUNDER Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether noise pollution in most parts of Delhi exceeds the safety standard andlimits, if so, the details in this

regard; and (b) the efforts made by Government to reduce the noise pollution level in the city?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b): The ambient noise levels are being monitored at five locations in Delhi since 2011 on 24x7 basis by Central Pollution Control Board. Out of five locations, noise levels are within prescribed norms at one location, i.e., East Arjun Nagar.

Apart from the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 and ambient noise standards, noise limits for gensets, sound making fire crackers, etc. have been notified. Use of loud speakers, public address system, bursting of sound making fire crackers, blowing of horns in residential and silent zone etc. is regulated under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 by designated Authority to control ambient noise levels. The power supply reportedly has been strengthened in Delhi so as to reduce the use of gensets. Traffic lights have been synchronised for certain roads to minimize the stoppage of flow of traffic vis-à-vis to reduce the use of horns.

**********

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS INTO PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES 12th December, 2013 RSQ 807 SHRI AJAY SANCHETI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether there is a need for integrating environmental concerns into planning and development

activities across all sectors in all the States; (b) if so, whether to achieve this there is a need to include ‘Environment’ as a concurrent subject in the

constitution; and (c) if so, the efforts being made in this direction? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The National Environment Policy adopted in 2006 is a guide to action in integrating environmental concerns into planning and development activities. (b) & (c) The existing legislations/framework/institutional mechanisms are sufficient to mainstream environmental concerns in all planning and development activities. The inclusion of ‘Environment’ as a concurrent subject in the Constitution is, therefore, not desirable at this stage.

***

LAND COVERED UNDER ENVIRONMENT CONSERVATION 12th December, 2013 RSQ 808 SMT. BIMLA KASHYAP SOOD Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the number of hectares of land (in lakhs) covered under environment conservation and afforestation in the

year 2010-11 and 2012-13 in all the districts of the country, especially in Himachal Pradesh; (b) the amount utilized by Government of Himachal Pradesh for this purpose and the complete details of funds

provided by Central Government; and (c) whether Central Government proposes to provide at least 50 percent of the total amount spent by Himachal

Pradesh and other States?


(a) to (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing a Centrally Sponsored scheme of National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for eco-restoration of degraded forests through people’s participation in the country. The scheme is being implemented through a decentralized mechanism of State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) at State level, Forest Development Agency (FDA) at District level and Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMC) at village level. Under NAP scheme, 100% grant is provided by the Central Government to the programme States and till date, a grant of 3209.33 crores has been released to them for afforestation over an area of two million hectares. Out of this, an amount of Rs.71.91 crores has been released and utilised by the 36 FDAs of the State of Himachal Pradesh for afforestation over an area of 51453 ha. The State-wise details of the funds released and area approved during the last three years and the current year including Himachal Pradesh under NAP is given in the Annexure I & II.

Annexure – I

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) (b) and (c) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NUMBER 808 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 12.12.2013 REGARDING LAND COVERED UNDER ENVIRONMENT CONSERVATION.

National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board National Afforestation Programme: Year Wise Summary (Amount Released) (Rs. in crore)

S. No.

State 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

1 Andhra Pradesh 10.48 15.15 2.71 3.75 2 Bihar 5.48 6.92 3.40 10.24 3 Chhattisgarh 33.25 24.74 13.33 7.75 4 Goa 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 5 Gujarat 29.43 27.00 14.30 11.68 6 Haryana 24.20 12.28 6.41 9.31 7 Himachal Pradesh 3.45 3.50 3.62 2.61 8 Jammu & Kashmir 3.99 6.89 3.37 8.11 9 Jharkhand 8.73 10.42 4.69 9.02

10 Karnataka 8.12 12.92 6.81 9.26 11 Kerala 7.54 2.04 11.30 6.96 12 Madhya Pradesh 30.39 21.43 9.15 15.12 13 Maharashtra 16.17 28.51 28.87 12.88 14 Orissa 11.20 7.30 3.38 5.36 15 Punjab 0 0.46 0.76 2.00 16 Rajasthan 4.94 6.23 4.14 2.81 17 Tamil Nadu 7.21 3.08 2.78 3.14 18 Uttar Pradesh 21.33 26.23 15.27 9.58 19 Uttarakhand 4.47 6.61 6.25 2.25 20 West Bengal 4.12 6.29 2.57 2.96 Total (Other

States) 234.50 228.00 143.11 134.78

21 Arunachal Pradesh 5.52 0.00 1.66 0.00 22 Assam 6.08 7.95 1.47 2.99 23 Manipur 10.37 12.74 9.46 5.56 24 Meghalaya 8.79 4.31 9.10 4.50 25 Mizoram 12.21 13.44 8.78 5.58

26 Nagaland 10.11 11.69 10.88 4.91 27 Sikkim 11.99 11.18 5.42 3.77 28 Tripura 10.43 13.69 3.50 6.50 Total (NE States) 75.49 75.00 50.26 33.81 G. Total 309.99 303.00 193.37 168.59

Annexure – II

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) (b) and (c) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NUMBER 808 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 12.12.2013 REGARDING LAND COVERED UNDER ENVIRONMENT CONSERVATION.

NATIONAL AFFORESTATION AND ECO-DEVELOPMENT BOARD

NATIONAL AFFORESTATION PROGRAMME (NAP): Approved Area (in hectares)

from 2010-11 to 2013-14S

No State Years

10-11 11-12 12-13 13-14

1 Andhra Pradesh 2341 5453 0 1605 2 Bihar 0 5647 2415 3355 3 Chhattisgarh 1177 8370 2934 1906 4 Goa 0 0 0 5 Gujarat 1760 11150 2000 2735 6 Haryana 1100 3145 1519 1835 7 Himachal Pradesh 1646 2566 1450 908 8 Jammu & Kashmir 0 4857 4486 2260 9 Jharkhand 0 4815 0 3975 10 Karnataka 0 9523 1880 3070 11 Kerala 666 2947 1000 1620 12 Madhya Pradesh 13000 10219 5125 2610 13 Maharashtra 0 9854 2900 3785 14 Orissa 0 7410 1975 4910 15 Punjab 0 625 0 1347 16 Rajasthan 400 3300 1250 2325 17 Tamil Nadu 0 2984 1800 2094 18 Uttar Pradesh 5167 12435 4270 3870 19 Uttarakhand 3340 5058 2350 1241 20 West Bengal 2815 2360 710 970 Total (Other States) 33412 112718 38064 46421

21 Arunachal Pradesh 3125 0 0 0 22 Assam 0 0 0 3675 23 Manipur 3599 4250 3970 1530 24 Meghalaya 4800 3930 3000 3000

25 Mizoram 2370 2600 2500 1530 26 Nagaland 2000 8000 2910 4000 27 Sikkim 1549 3730 650 1095 28 Tripura 6271 6220 4435 3900 Total (NE States) 23714 28730 17465 18730 TOTAL 57126 141448 55529 65151

PLAN TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF FORESTS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 809 SHRI SANJAY RAUT Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government’s plan to increase and improve the quality of India’s forests is facing shortage of

funds; (b) whether the Green India Mission will achieve its goal of increasing the forest cover and improving the

quality of forests by 2020 with paucity of funds; and (c) if so, with resource mobilisation difficulty whether the Ministry is dovetailing the mission with resources

from other programmes of Government, if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (c) the National Mission for Green India Mission is one of the eight missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)envisaging increased forest/ tree cover on 5 m ha lands and improved quality of forest cover on another 5 m ha (a total of 10 m ha). The approved Expenditure Committee recommendation provides funding of Rs.2000 crores under XIIth plan outlay, along with Rs. 400 crores from XIIIthFinance Commission Grants towards State’s share. It also spells out convergence with CAMPA to the tune of Rs. 6000 crores, with MNREGS to the tune of Rs 4000 crores and with National Afforestation Programme for Rs 600 crores. Thus, as per approved EFC, total expenditure proposed for GIM will be Rs 13,000 crores during the 12th plan and a one year spillover into the 13th Plan. The Mission relies heavily on the convergence of schemes and programmes of many Ministries /Departments (particularly the MGNREGS and CAMPA) in the landscapes being identified under the Mission. Convergence with CAMPA is subject to Hon’ble Supreme Court’s concurrence.

*** DUMPING OF DANGEROUS CHEMICALS/ ACIDS IN RIVERS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 810 SHRI MOTILAL VORA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government is aware that dangerous and toxic chemicals, oil and acid are being dumped in rivers

and mines by more than 100 industries located at Saver Road near Indore in Madhya Pradesh; (b) whether it is also a fact that some industries have installed treatment plant for polluted water but do not run

them; (c) whether Government would exert pressure on industries to install water treatment plant forthwith; and (d) the steps Government is taking to save ground water and river water from pollution?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) to (d) Out of 469 industries located Sanwar Industrial Area and Sanwer Road (Indore), 182 industries fall under red, 67 in orange and 220 under green category, respectively, as reported by Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board (MPPCB). MPPCB has identified 44 water polluting industries of red category. Sanwer Road Industrial Area forms part of Narval nullah catchment which confluences to river Khan after traversing 10 kilometres. This nullah carries effluent of Sanwer Road Industrial Area and dries up before confluencing with river Khan during lean season. None of industries of Sanwer Industrial Area is directly discharging its effluent in river Khan, as reported. MPPCB has reportedly issued show cause notices for closure against defaulting units under section 33 ’A’ of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. MPPCB is taking appropriate action to implement the provision of the Water Act.

*** SCHEMES RELATING TO WASTE TO ENERGY PLANTS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 811 DR. K.V.P. RAMACHANDRA RAO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Central Government has got any schemes relating to waste to energy plants, if so, the details

thereof; and (b) to what extent States are being assisted and advised in this regard?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) and (b): The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is implementing a Prograrmme on Energy from Urban, Industrial and Agricultural Wastes/Residues. Under the programme, financial assistance is available for the garbage based pilot projects set up by State Nodal Agencies, Urban Local Bodies/Municipal Corporations or entrepreneurs. The central financial assistance is provided at the rate of Rs.2.00 crore per megawatt of electricity generated with a ceiling of Rs.10.00 crore per project. Under this programme, five projects - two in Delhi, one in Karnataka, one in Andhra Pradesh and one in Maharashtra, have been taken up.

***

SCHEME TO MAKE RIVERS POLLUTION FREE 12th December, 2013 RSQ 812 SMT. VASANTHI STANLEY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has identified the polluted rivers in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof, river-wise and State-wise, including Tamil Nadu; (c) whether Government has formulated any scheme to make these rivers pollution free; and (d) the details of the amount allocated and expenditure incurred during the last three years in different States? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board has identified 150 polluted stretches along various rivers in the country based on BOD (Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand) levels. The details of polluted river stretches in various States, including Tamil Nadu, are enclosed at Annexure-I. (c) & (d) This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in abatement of pollution in identified stretches of various rivers in the country under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) and NGRBA (National Ganga River Basin Authority) programme, for implementation of projects on a cost sharing basis between the Central and State Governments. NRCP, including NGRBA programme, presently covers 42 rivers in 195 towns spread over 20 States at a sanctioned cost of Rs.9336.87 crore. Various pollution abatement schemes taken up under the Plan, inter-alia, include interception and diversion of raw sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, creation of low cost sanitation facilities, setting up of electric/improved wood crematoria and river front development. Till date, sewage treatment capacity of 4814.80 million litres per day has been created under the Plan. The details of funds released by the Ministry and expenditure incurred by the States under the Plan during the last three years, State-wise, including Tamil Nadu are at Annexure-II. Annexure-I referred to in reply to parts (a) & (b) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 812 to be answered on Thursday, the 12th December, 2013 on ‘Scheme to make rivers pollution free’

State-wise details of polluted river stretches Sl. No.

Name of State

Name of the River Number of polluted stretches

1 Andhra Pradesh

Godavari, Krishna, Manjira, Musi, Maner, Nakkavagu, Pennar and Tungabhadra

9

2 Assam Bharalu, Burhidihing, Deepar Bill and Kalong 4 3 Chandigarh

(U.T.) Attawa choe, Patiala ki Rao and Sukhna choe 3

4 Delhi Yamuna 1 5 Gujarat Ambika, Anas, Amlakhadi, Bhogavo, Baleshwar Khadi, Dhadar,

Daman Ganga, Khari, Kaveri, Kim, Kolak, Mindhola, Mahi, Panam, Shedi, Sabarmati, and Tapi

19

6 Haryana Ghaggar, Gurgaon canal, Markanda, Western Yamuna canal, and Yamuna

5

7 Himachal Pradesh

Beas, Markanda and Sukhna, 3

8 Madhya Pradesh

Betwa, Chambal, Kshipra, Khan, Kalisot, Mandakini, Tons and Narmada

9

9 Maharashtra Bhima, Godavari, Mula & Mutha, Pawana, Panchganga, Patalganga, Indrayani, Koyna, Kundalika, Kalu, Kanhan, Kolar, Mithi, Tapi, Girna, Nira, Weinganga, Wardha, Krishna, Purna, Nira, Chandrabhaga, Venna, Ulhas, Rangavali and Bhatsa

28

10 Punjab Satluj and Ghaggar 2 11 Tamil Nadu Adyar, Cooum, Cauvery, Noyyal, Vaigai, Tambiraparani, Bhavani and

Palar 9

12 Uttar Pradesh

Yamuna, Hindon, Western Kali (partly covered), Kali Nadi (Eastern), Bagad, Ganga, Gomti, Ramganga, Saryu and Rihand

12

13 Karnataka Bhadra, Tunga, Tungabhadra, Laxmantirtha, Kali, Krishna, Hundri, Kundu, Arkavati and Malprabha

11

14 Manipur Nambul 1 15 Rajasthan Bandi, Berech, Jojari, Chambal and Khetri 5 16 Uttarakhand Kosi, Dhela & kichha and Bahalla 3 17 Jharkhand Subarnrekha and Sankh 2 18 Kerala Karamana, Puzhackal and Kadambayar 3 19 Tripura Agartala canal and Haora 2

20 Bihar Sikrana 1

21 Chattisgarh Arpa, Seonath and Mahanadi 3

22 Meghalaya Kharkhala and Umtrew 2 23 Odisha Kathjodi, Brahmani, Mahanadi and Kuakhai 4

24 Puducherry (U.T.)

Arasalar 1

25 West Bengal Damodar, Ganga and Barakar 3

26 Nagaland Dhansiri 1

27 Sikkim Dikchu, Teesta, Maney khola and Ranichu 4

TOTAL 150

Annexure-II referred to in reply to parts (c) & (d) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 812 to be answered on Thursday, the 12th December, 2013 on ‘Scheme to make rivers pollution free’

Details of funds released to the State Governments & expenditure incurred (including State Government’s

share) during the last three years under the National River Conservation Plan (Rs. in crore)

******

CAMPA AMOUNT LYING IN NATIONALIZED BANKS 12th December, 2013

Sl. No. State

Funds released by Government of

India

Total expenditure (including State share)

1 Andhra Pradesh -- 22.00

2 Bihar 20.00 44.79

3 Jharkhand -- --

4 Gujarat 42.10 13.98

5 Goa -- --

6 Karnataka 0.96 --

7 Maharastra 16.89 35.53

8 Madhya Pradesh -- 3.21

9 Odisha 5.00 19.15

10 Punjab 138.64 248.50

11 Rajasthan 20.00 47.53

12 Tamil Nadu -- 14.26

13 Delhi 118.17 358.77

14 Haryana 42.20 6.71

15 Uttar Pradesh 416.65 641.61

16 Uttarakhand 41.18 39.43

17 West Bengal 194.13 204.49

18 Kerala -- --

19 Sikkim 57.09 56.84

20 Nagaland -- --

Total 1113.01 1756.80

RSQ 813 SHRI SANJIV KUMAR


(a) whether over Rs.28,000 crores collected by CAMPA in the Ministry is lying outside Government Account

in the nationalized banks ; (b) whether the expenditure on compensatory afforestaion is being undertaken without any legislative approval,

either of Parliament or State Legislatures ; and (c) whether such a practice of incurring expenditure on public purposes without legislative authorization not in

violation of Article 114 and Article 204 of the Constitution of India ? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) to (c) a statement of funds held by the Ad-hoc Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority in the name of various State CAMPAs, in term deposits in nationalised Banks as on date is at Annexure. The funds are held outside the Consolidated Fund of India and/or of the States, and also the Public Account of India and/or of the Sates, on the strength of the Orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in Writ Petition No.202 of 1995 titled T N Godavarman Thirumalpad Vs. Union of India

Annexure referred in the reply to Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No.813 answered on 12th December 2013, regarding CAMPA amount lying in nationalized banks by Shri Sanjiv Kumar, Member of Parliament.

As on 12.12.2013

S.No

Date of Deposi

t

Date of Maturi

ty Sl. No. of FDR Bank/Branch

Rate of Interest

Principal Amount

Maturity Amount

Interest Amount

1 19.04.20

11 29.03.20

14 510042 Union Bank of India,

East Patel Nagar 9.40 3,196,656,000.00

4,199,541,723.00

1,002,885,723.00

2 19.04.20

11 29.03.20

14 510041 Union Bank of India,

East Patel Nagar 9.40 11,424,043,674.00

15,011,903,315.00

3,587,859,641.00

3 21.04.20

11 29.03.20

14 522273 Union Bank of

India,Sunder Nagar 9.40 17,109,227,435.00

22,471,210,182.99

5,361,982,747.99

4 1.10.201

2

27.03.20

14 762827 Indian Overseas Bank,

Rajendra Place 9.12

5,000,000,000.00

5,715,453,806.00 715,453,806.00

5 1.10.201

2

27.12.20


Rajendra Place 9.12

2,500,000,000.00

2,795,390,384.00 295,390,384.00

6 1.10.201

2

27.12.20


Rajendra Place 9.12

7,500,000,000.00

8,386,171,151.00 886,171,151.00

7 1.10.201

2

27.03.20

14 123195 Punjab & Sind Bank 9.00

2,000,000,000.00

2,282,205,986.00 282,205,986.00

8 1.10.201

2

27.12.20


2,000,000,000.00

2,233,064,404.00 233,064,404.00

9 1.01.201

3

27.06.20

14 8022929 Dena Bank, scop

complex 9.10

5,000,000,000.00

5,716,586,278.00 716,586,278.00

10 27.02.20

13

27.06.20

14 27807 Canara Bank, R.K.Puram 9.36

3,000,000,000.00

3,394,588,457.00

394,588,457.00

11 5.03.201

3

27.06.20

14 596402 Bank of Baroda ,

Sansad Marg 9.62

2,000,000,000.00

2,265,409,549.00 265,409,549.00

12 29.3.201

3

27.03.20

14 596819 Bank of Baroda ,

Sansad Marg 9.72

3,000,000,000.00

3,299,468,602.00 299,468,602.00

13 30.3.201

3

27.03.20

14 596821 Bank of Baroda,

Sansad Marg 9.72

7,000,000,000.00

7,698,760,072.00 698,760,072.00

14 29.3.201

3

27.06.20


Sansad Marg 9.72

7,000,000,000.00

7,890,285,970.00 890,285,970.00

15 29.3.201

3

27.06.20


Sansad Marg 9.72

3,000,000,000.00

3,381,551,130.00 381,551,130.00

16 30.3.201

3

27.03.20

14 587646 Indian Bank 9.25

10,000,000,000.00

10,946,048,288.00 946,048,288.00

17 30.3.201

3

27.06.20

14 587645 Indian Bank 9.25

1,290,000,000.00

1,445,410,105.00 155,410,105.00

18 30.3.201

3

27.06.20

14 67218815

885 State Bank of Travancore 9.25

5,000,000,000.00

5,602,364,749.00

602,364,749.00

19 30.3.201

3

30.03.20


Rajendra Place 9.71

10,000,000,000.00

11,006,932,197.00

1,006,932,197.00

20 30.3.201

3

27.03.20

14 910260

State Bank of Hydrabad , Scope

Complex 9.35

5,000,000,000.00

5,478,314,439.00 478,314,439.00

21 30.3.201

3

27.3.201

4 169591 Bank of India 9.50

5,000,000,000.00

5,486,257,069.26 486,257,069.26

22 30.3.201

3

27.6.201


5,000,000,000.00

5,631,716,215.93 631,716,215.93

23 23.4.201

3

27.9.201

4 687028 Canara Bank, Lajpat

Nagar 9.05

6,000,000,000.00

6,819,973,960.00 819,973,960.00

24 10.5.201

3

27.9.201

4 687094 Canara Bank, Lajpat

Nagar 9.00

2,750,000,000.00

3,109,991,769.00 359,991,769.00

25 10.5.201

3

27.9.201

4 2150424 Oriental Bank Of

Commerce 9.00

250,000,000.00

282,726,524.00 32,726,524.00

26 22.5.201

3

27.9.201


960,000,000.00

1,082,780,902.00 122,780,902.00

27 22.5.201

3

27.9.201

4 687151 Canara Bank 9.00

2,540,000,000.00

2,864,101,453.00 324,101,453.00

28 04.6.201

3

27.9.201

4 655483 Allahabad Bank 9.00

1,833,333,334.00

2,060,696,558.00 227,363,224.00

29 04.06.20

13

27.6.201


1,833,333,334.00

2,015,351,156.95 182,017,822.95

30 04.06.20

13

27.9.201


1,833,333,334.00

2,060,696,558.00 227,363,224.00

31 29.6.201

3

27.9.201

4 67230473

965 State Bank of Travancore 8.75

360,000,000.00

401,018,123.00

41,018,123.00

32 29.6.201

3

27.9.201

4 112825 Bank of Maharashtra 8.75

5,000,000,000.00

5,569,696,155.00 569,696,155.00

33 29.6.201

3

27.6.201

4 243232 Central Bank of India,

Khan Market 9.01

5,000,000,000.00

5,464,301,699.00 464,301,699.00

34 29.6.201

3

27.6.201

4 221699 Andhra Bank 9.01

14,410,000,000.00

15,748,117,497.00

1,338,117,497.00

35 29.6.201

3

27.9.201

4 34794 Vijaya Bank,

Barakhamba Road 8.80

7,930,000,000.00

8,838,927,702.00 908,927,702.00

36 29.6.201

3

27.6.201

4 789310 Corporation Bank,

Lodhi Complex 8.80

9,000,000,000.00

9,815,625,000.00 815,625,000.00

37 29.6.201

3

27.6.201


Lodhi Complex 8.80

2,500,000,000.00

2,726,562,500.00 226,562,500.00

38 29.6.201

3 27.9.201


Lodhi Complex 8.80

5,000,000,000.00

5,573,095,000.00 573,095,000.00

39

29.6.201

3 27.9.201


23,510,000,000.00

26,204,689,820.00

2,694,689,820.00

40 29.6.201

3 27.6.201


10,000,000,000.00

10,901,997,590.62 901,997,590.62

41

29.6.201

3

27.9.201


8,010,934,765.00

8,897,597,349.95 886,662,584.95

42 29.6.201

3

29.6.201

4 112000 Punjab National Bank 8.75

5,000,000,000.00

5,452,065,964.00 452,065,964.00

43 29.6.201

3

27.9.201

4 861601 Indian Bank 8.75

9,800,000,000.00

10,916,604,463.00

1,116,604,463.00

44 29.6.201

3

27.9.201

4 517833 Dena Bank, Connaught

Place 8.75

3,000,000,000.00

3,341,817,693.00 341,817,693.00

45 05.09.20

13

27.4.201

4 483936

State Bank of Hydrabad , Scope

Complex 10.41

5,500,000,000.00

6,293,161,543.00 793,161,543.00

46 27.9.201

3

27.9.201

4 2520 UCO, Bank 10.07

14,060,000,000.00

15,530,210,714.00

1,470,210,714.00

47 27.9.201

3

27.09.20

14 2509763 Oriental Bank Of

Commerce 9.80

2,000,000,000.00

2,203,321,370.00 203,321,370.00

48 27.9.201

3

27.12.20

14 262100 Bank of India 9.76

2,660,000,000.00

3,000,747,725.70 340,747,725.70

49 01.10.20

13

27.12.20

14 404077

State bank of Hydrabad , Scope

Complex 9.75

4,950,000,000.00

5,577,228,980.00

627,228,980.00 50

1.10.2013

27.12.20

14 86973790

79-5 State Bank Of India 9.75

12,550,000,000.00

14,140,247,212.00

1,590,247,212.00

51 25.10.20

13

27.12.20

14 243436 Central Bank of India,

Khan Market 9.25

1,500,000,000.00

1,669,879,430.00 169,879,430.00

52 20.11.20

13

27.03.20


1,500,000,000.00

1,697,903,461.00 197,903,461.00

Total 293,260,861,876.00

332,599,769,946.40

39,338,908,070.40

CLEARANCE FOR LAYING THE HUBLI-ANKOLA RAIL LINE 12th December, 2013 RSQ 814 DR. VIJAY MALLYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Minister is aware of the affidavit dated the 10th February, 2008 filed by the State Government

of Karnataka before the Central Empowered Committee constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme Court recommending clearance for laying the Hubli-Ankola rail line;

(b) the reaction of the Ministry in this regard; and (c) by when will the requisite clearance be notified to all concerned?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) No sir, the Ministry is not aware of any such affidavit filed on 10th February, 2008. However, Ministry is aware of affidavit dated 18.12.2008 filed by the State Government of Karnataka before the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) constituted by Hon’ble Supreme Court of India strongly recommending the construction of Hubli- Ankola rail line. (b) to (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests constituted a Committee on 8.12.2009 headed by the Addl. Director General of Forest (FC), Ministry of Environment & Forests to conduct a site inspection and carry out interaction with the Railway officers and the people’s representatives and submit its appreciation report to the Ministry. Report of the said Committee was considered by the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) in its meeting held on 21.07.2010 and the FAC inter-alia recommended that report of the Committee may be submitted to the CEC. Accordingly, this Ministry vide its letter dated 22.09.2010 submitted the report of the Committee to the CEC. The matter is now before, Hon’ble Supreme Court of India through the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) in IA No. 952 of 2006 in WP 202/1995 filed by Parisara Samprakshana Kendra and Others versus Union of

India and Others. The CEC, during hearing of this case on 13.09.2006, has advised the Ministry not to issue any permission in this case till a report is filed by CEC before the Hon’ble Supreme Court.

******* HEARING PROBLEMS CAUSED DUETO NOISE POLLUTION 12th December, 2013 RSQ 815 SHRI RAJKUMAR DHOOT Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that noise pollution in the National Capital as well as State Capitals has increased

manifold in the recent past which is causing hearing problem for the people, if so, the details thereof; and (b) what remedial measures Government has taken or propose to take to bring down noise pollution

substantially in the National and State Capitals?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a). Ambient noise levels are monitored in National Capital apart from six State Capitals (Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Lucknow) on 24x7 basis by respective state pollution control boards in association with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Time series data for two years 2011-12 and 2012-13 is available. It may be pre-mature to draw a conclusion about trend of ambient noise pollution. As reported by the CPCB, no conclusive reference is available in respect of hearing problems faced by people associated with existing ambient noise level in National Capital or State Capitals. (b). Apart from the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 and ambient noise standards, noise limits for gensets, sound making fire crackers, etc. have been notified. Use of loud speaker, public address system, bursting of sound making fire crackers, blowing of horn in residential and silent zone etc. is regulated under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 by designated Authority to control ambient noise levels.

*********

CONSTITUTION OF COMMITTEE TO FIND OUT THE SAFETY OF BT. BRINJAL 12th December, 2013 RSQ 816 SHRI PRAKASH JAVADEKAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has constituted a committee to find out whether Bt. Brinjal is safe for human

consumption, if so, the findings of the Committee; and (b) the steps Government has taken on the findings of the said Committee?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) & (b) The Government imposed a moratorium on 09.2.2010 on commercialization of Bt. Brinjal event EE-I a genetically modified (GM) crop in the country till such time independent scientific studies establish that Bt Brinjal is safe for the environment and human health. As a follow up to the moratorium, a meeting of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) to consult with experts and scientists on the safety of Bt. Brinjal was held on April, 27, 2011. While several of the experts recommended limited release of Bt Brinjal seeds to evaluate its performance under strict supervision, some experts have suggested additional

biosafety studies with respect to long term impacts on biodiversity and human health before limited release is permitted. Decision on the above issue was deferred in view of the Hon’ble Supreme Court decision dated May 9, 2012 to constitute a Technical Expert Committee (TEC) to advise the court on GM crop field trials and related issues. The TEC has now submitted two final reports; one which has the concurrence of five of its six members and the second by Dr. R. S. Paroda; sixth member TEC. As the matter is subjudice, it has been decided to await the outcome of the Hon’ble Supreme Court judgment.

*****

VILLAGES AROUND RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK 12th December, 2013 RSQ 817 SHRI SHIVANAND TIWARI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has decided to remove 64 villages in and around Ranthambore National Park in

Sawaimadhopur, who have been leading pastoral lives for centuries, if so, the reasons therefor; (b) how many villages are fully/partially rehabilitated; and (c) whether the rehabilitation move is in sync with the existing laws in the country?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, 100% central assistance is provided to tiger States for voluntary relocation of villages / settlements located only in core/critical tiger habitat of tiger reserves including Ranthambhore, as notified by States, so as to provide inviolate habitat for tiger. (b) The Ranthambhore National Park, interalia, forms part of the notified core/critical tiger habitat of Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. As reported by the State, the status of voluntary village relocation in the core/critical tiger habitat of the Tiger Reserve, is at Annexure-I. (c) Yes Sir. The voluntary relocation of villages from the notified core/critical tiger habitat is done as per provisions contained in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006, read with the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.

Annexure-I

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 817 ON VILLAGES AROUND RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK DUE FOR REPLY ON 12.12.2013. Status of voluntary village relocation in the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan), as reported by the

State Name of Tiger Reserve

Number of villages in the notified core/critical tiger habitat

Number of villages completely relocated from the notified core/critical tiger habitat

Number of villages partially relocated from the core/critical tiger habitat

Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve 65 03 09

***

STATUS OF YAMUNA ACTION PLAN 12th December, 2013 RSQ 818 SHRI NARESH GUJRAL

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) the status of the Yamuna Action Plan in the third phase proposed in December, 2011; and (b) whether Government plans to increase the capacity of the sewage treatment plants that treat waste generated by Delhi, given that shortage of capacity has led to dumping untreated waste in the Yamuna and if so, the details thereof and if not, the reason therefor? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Central Government has approved Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase-III project for Delhi in December, 2011 at a cost of Rs. 1656 crores. Under the project, Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is implementing rehabilitation of existing trunk sewers and rising mains, upgradation of existing sewage treatment plants (STPs) of 814 million litres per day (mld) and construction of a new 136 mld STP (in place of the old STP). Project Management Consultant for the project has been appointed. The prequalification of the bidders/contractors has been finalised by DJB for execution of seven sub-projects. Bid documents for four sub-projects have also been finalised and issued to the prequalified bidders.

(b) As per DJB, the present sewage treatment capacity in Delhi is 2677.33 mld. To augment the existing sewage treatment capacity, DJB has taken up construction of six STPs with a total capacity of 427 mld. Further, setting up of decentralized sewage treatment plants in rural areas, unauthorized colonies and unsewered areas is planned by DJB.

*****

KILLING OF ELEPHANTS 12th December, 2013 RSQ 822 SHRI SUKHENDU SEKHAR ROY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) how many elephants mowed down by Assam bound Kaviguru Express in Dooars area of North Bengal on

November 13, 2013; (b) whether the train was running at a speed of 80km/hr killing the elephants by violating the speed limit

stipulated by the Ministry; (c) whether earlier directive for diversion of trains through alternative routes between Siliguri-Coochbehar via

Falakata adhead to; (d) what penal measures initiated by the Ministry against persons for such irresponsible and inhumane acts

resulting to killing of elephants; and (e) whether Government proposes to refer the menace of ‘Killer Trains’ in Environment Tribunal, if not

reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN):

(a) Six elephants were killed in the rail accident by Assam bound Kaviguru Express in Dooars area of North Bengal on November 13, 2013. (b) As informed by the State Forest Department, the train may have been running at a speed of 70-80km/hr at the time of accident. The location of accident is not a part of the identified and advised portions of the railway track for speed restriction. (c) No such directive has been issued in this regard. (d) An FIR has been lodged by State Forest Department at Banarhat Police Station and Malbazar Government Railway Police. (e) No Sir. The Standing Committee of Parliament on Railways is already seized of the matter.

******

ACTION PLAN FOR PENDING PROJECTS 6th February, 2014 RSQ *224 SHRI NARESH AGRAWAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that due to delay or not getting permission from the Ministry, many projects including

real estate, road construction either could not be commenced or are starting very late;

(b) if so, whether it is the main reason behind slow pace of the development; and (c) the number of projects lying pending with the Ministry and the action plan of the Ministry either to

sanction them or reject them as soon as possible?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b) AND (c), OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *224 FOR ANSWER ON 06/02/2014 REGARDING ACTION PLAN FOR PENDING PROJECTS

(a), (b) & (c) The Ministry processes the cases of Environmental Clearance (EC) as per provisions of the EIA Notification, 2006 and its further amendments, which inter-alia prescribes the time limit for consideration of the proposals at various levels. Sometimes, delay occurs due to receipt of incomplete proposals, requirement of site inspection and non-submission of the requisite information. In order to facilitate an early decision on proposals for environmental clearances, various steps have been initiated by the Ministry which include (i) continuous monitoring of the status of pending projects, (ii) regular and longer duration meetings of Expert Appraisal Committees (EAC) for consideration of projects in various sectors, (iii) streamlining of the procedure for appraisal of projects, and (iv) finalization of sector specific manuals in thirty nine sectors alongwith the model Terms of References (TORs), which have been uploaded on the Ministry’s website for the benefit of all stakeholders. State/UT level Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs) have been constituted in 25 States/UTs to deal with Environment Clearance cases of Category ‘B’ projects. Building construction/real estate projects are category ‘B’ and require Environment Clearance from concerned State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). The issues relating to EC for building construction / real estate projects have been examined by an Expert Committee headed by Dr. Kasturirangan. In accordance with the recommendations of the Committee, to speed up the process and avoid duplication in examination of the issues by the local authorities and SEIAAs, the SEIAAs have been askeded to concentrate only on environmental issues. For the grant of Environment Clearances to road sector projects, the Ministry has made following policy changes to speed up the clearance process including exemption of certain highway projects from getting prior Environment Clearance:

1. Process of obtaining of Term of References for widening of highways has been done away with.

2. The widening of National Highways projects up to 100 km with additional right of way (ROW) / land acquisition of 40 mtr. in main alignments and 60 mtr. in bye pass alignments have been exempted from getting prior EC.

3. Environment Clearance and Forest Clearance have been delinked for highway projects. 4. Separate Clearance for borrow areas for soil and earth for highways projects have been done away with

and the issues thereof to be considered alongwith environmental clearance. For further simplifying the process for grant of Environmental Clearance the Ministry has issued guidelines recently for categorization of Category 'B' projects/activities into Category 'B1' & 'B2'. A total of 283 projects are under consideration of the Ministry for Environment Clearance.

The proposals sent by the State Governments regarding use of forest land for non-forestry purposes under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, its rules and guidelines and various orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court are considered by the Ministry as per procedure laid down in the Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003. The approval for non-forestry use of forest land is granted with stipulated conditions to mitigate the impact of diversion of forest land on the environment. Most of the delays caused are mainly due to non-submission of essential details alongwith the proposal at the time of submission of the proposals by the User Agency to the State Government and at the time of submission of the proposal by the State Government to the Central Government. At present, a total of 60 projects are under consideration of the Ministry for clearance from forest angle. GOVERNMENT OPINION ON KASTURIRANGAN REPORT 6th February, 2014 RSQ *225 SHRI P. RAJEEVE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether any of the State Governments have submitted their opinion on the Kasturirangan Report within the prescribed time, if so, the name of these State Governments;

(b) whether Government has declared any of the villages in the country as ELF regions, if so, the details

thereof; and

(c) whether the notification has been withdrawn or modified by the Ministry, if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (Dr. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a), (b) & (c) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement in reply to Parts (a), (b) & (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 225 for reply on 6.2.2014 regarding Government Opinion on Kasturirangan Report raised by Shri P. Rajeeve.

(a) The High Level Working Group (HLWG) submitted its report to the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) on 15th April 2013 and it was thereafter put in public domain by hosting on the Ministry’s website seeking comments of all stakeholders. The concerned State Governments were also requested to give their views. The Ministry has since received detailed written comments on HLWG report from State Governments of Maharashtra, Goa and Tamil Nadu. The Chief Ministers of Kerala and Maharashtra and Forest Minister of Goa have also written to the Ministry on issues related to HLWG recommendations. (b) The Central Government has not declared any of the villages in the country as ELF regions. However, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has declared certain identified areas as Eco-sensitive Areas/Zones under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. (c) The Ministry has accepted the High Level Working Group (HLWG) Report “in principle” subject to certain stipulations vide Office Memorandum (OM) of the Ministry dated 20th December 2013 after completion of the consultation process. A copy of this OM is annexed as Annexure I. It has been clarified in the OM that the boundary of the Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) as identified by the HLWG as also the regulatory regime

would be finalized after the draft notification to the effect is placed in the public domain for comments/views of stakeholders including State Governments. The Ministry had also issued Directions under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 dated 13th November 2013, with a view to providing immediate protection to the Western Ghats and maintaining its environmental integrity considering unprecedented threats to natural landscape of Western Ghats region. As per these Directions, five categories of new and/or expansion projects/activities which have maximum interventionist and damaging impacts on ecosystems would not be considered for granting Environmental Clearance in the Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA), as identified by the HLWG, in the Western Ghats. The Ministry has not issued any draft notification for declaration of the area identified by the HLWG as Ecologically Sensitive under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Considering the seriousness of the matter, the Ministry has written on 16th January 2014 to the CMs of all six states in the Western Ghats region seeking their views on the HLWG recommendations, especially on concerns which might not have been addressed in the OM of the Ministry dated 20th December 2013. Their views have been sought within one month so that the Ministry may consider the same before issuing the draft notification for declaring the Ecologically Sensitive Area in the Western Ghats. SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTS UNDER GANGA AND YAMUNA ACTION PLANS 6th February, 2014

RSQ *227 SHRIMATI SMRITI ZUBIN IRANI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of sewage treatment plants to be constructed under the Ganga Action Plan and Yamuna Action Plan and the actual number of plants established so far;

(b) whether the treatment capacity of the present treatment plants is sufficient; (c) the details of the total estimated sewage generated and treated per day in class I cities and class II

towns in each State; (d) the steps taken by Government to upgrade/construct new treatment plants and the funds provided for

the purpose; and (e) the time by when the treatment plants are likely to be upgraded?

THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY)

(a ) to ( e) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (e) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.227 to be answered on Thursday, the 6th February, 2014 on “Sewage treatment plants under Ganga and Yamuna Action Plans” by Shrimati Smriti Zubin Irani. (a) Under both phases of Ganga Action Plan (GAP), a total of 83 sewage treatment plants (STPs) were sanctioned for undertaking pollution abatement activities in the identified polluted stretches of the river Ganga, of which 69 sewage treatment plants have been established.

Under Phase I & Phase II of Yamuna Action Plan (YAP), 41 STPs have been constructed along with rehabilitation of one STP in Delhi for pollution abatement of river Yamuna. (b) & (c) As per estimates of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), nearly 2723 million litres of sewage is generated every day from Class I cities and Class II towns along the Ganga River. So far, a total capacity to treat 1208.8 million litres per day (mld) has been created in these towns, of which capacity to treat 1091 mld has been

established under Ganga Action Plan and remaining from resources of State Governments. State-wise sewage generation and available treatment capacity is given below;

State Class-I cities Class-II towns Sewage Generation (mld)

Treatment Capacity (mld)

Sewage Generation ( mld)

Treatment Capacity (mld )

Uttarakhand 39.6 18 21.7 6.3 Uttar Pradesh 873.9 460.8 63.5 8.1 Bihar 376.5 165.2 30.7 4.2 West Bengal 1311.3 548.4 6.0 - TOTAL 2601.3 1192.4 122 16.4

Similarly, as per estimates of CPCB, about 4881.89 mld of sewage is generated from Class-I and Class II towns along river Yamuna, out of which a capacity to treat 3135.8 mld of sewage has been established in the 3 states of Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. A treatment capacity of 942.25 mld ( which includes 871.75 mld capacity in towns along Yamuna) has been created under the two phases of Yamuna Action Plan along with rehabilitation of one STP of 328.2 mld capacity in Delhi. State-wise sewage generation and available treatment capacity is as under:

State Class-I cities Class-II towns Sewage generation (mld)

Treatment capacity (mld)

Sewage generation (mld)

Treatment capacity (mld)

Haryana 515.59 432 - - Delhi 3800 2460 - - Uttar Pradesh 560 239.3 6.3 4.5 Total 4875.59 3131.3 6.3 4.5

(d) & (e) As a new initiative, the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) was constituted in February 2009, as an empowered, planning, financing, monitoring and coordinating authority with the objective to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic river basin approach. In order to meet the shortfall in the sewage treatment infrastructure, projects amounting to nearly Rs. 3546.65 crores have been sanctioned under the NGRBA for development of sewer networks, sewage treatment plants, electric crematoria, community toilets, development of river fronts, etc. The newly sanctioned projects in 24 cities will create an additional capacity to treat 566.43 mld. Against the sanctioned projects under NGRBA, an amount of Rs, 1080.27 crore have been released by Centre and State Governments. Of this, an expenditure of Rs. 804.49 crores has been incurred till December 2013.

With regard to river Yamuna, the Phase-III project of Yamuna Action Plan for Delhi has been approved at a cost of Rs 1656 crores. The project includes works for rehabilitation/modernization of 7 STPs with a total treatment capacity of 814 mld at Okhla, Kondli and Rithala in Delhi and construction of a new STP (in place of old STP) of 136 mld capacity at Okhla. Implementation of YAP-III at Delhi is scheduled for completion by December, 2018.

Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry at an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crores for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepet and Panipat in Haryana. STP capacity of 70 mld is envisaged under these two projects. Conservation of rivers is a long term continuous process which involves collective effort of the Central and State Governments. The Central Government supplements the efforts of the State Governments in river conservation. River conservation activities such as creation of civic infrastructure for sewage management and disposal are also being implemented under other Central schemes, such as Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission, Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns, as well as under schemes of State Governments.

UID NUMBER FOR TIGERS IN RESERVE FORESTS 6th February, 2014

RSQ *235 SMT. RATNA BAI: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the National Tiger Conservation Authority has come forward to allot Unique Identification

(UID) numbers for tigers in the reserve forests of the country; and (b) if so, the details thereof and the present status thereof?

MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b): A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *235 ON UID NUMBER FOR TIGERS IN RESERVE FORESTS DUE FOR REPLY ON 06.02.2014. (a) & (b) Based on a decision taken in the 7th meeting of the National Tiger Conservation Authority in October, 2011, detailed protocol for establishing a National Repository of Camera Trap Photographs of Tigers (NRCTPT) has been firmed up through a committee comprising of, interalia, experts and scientists, which has been communicated to tiger States. The said protocol has provision for providing an ID to each individual tiger. Action has been taken for building up the NRCTPT with the 635 camera trap pictures of individual tigers collected during the 2010 country level status assessment of tigers, done in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India and tiger States, with updation in an ongoing manner. COGNIZANCE OF RECENT JUDGEMENTS BY NGT 6th February, 2014 RSQ 239 DR. T.N. SEEMA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether India was ranked at 126 out of 132 countries in a report by World Bank on environmental status, if so, the details and the reaction of Government thereto;

(b) whether Government has taken cognizance of the various recent judgements by National Green Tribunal (NGT) and steps taken to restructure the environmental laws for environmentally sustainable future, if so, the steps taken/proposed to be taken by Government and if not, the reasons therefor; and

(c) whether Government is planning to amend the NGT rules to curtail the powers and functioning of the tribunal, and if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (Dr. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to parts (a), (b) and (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.239 for reply on 6.2.2014 raised by Dr. T.N. Seema regarding Cognizance of recent judgements by NGT. (a) World Economic Forum (WEF) and Joint Research Centre (JRC) of European Commission (EC) has carried out a study for evolving Environmental Performance Index (EPI)-Ranking and Scores (2012) of 132 countries. The EPI evaluates countries on 22 performance indicators spanning 10 policy categories that reflect

facets of both environmental public health and eco-system vitality. India ranked 125th position on EPI and 95th position on Trend EPI for 132 countries. (b) As per the information available:

(i) The National Green Tribunal (NGT), Delhi vide Judgment dated 11.10.2011, in the matter of Application 2 of 2011 (Gram Panchayat Totu (Majthai) and Ors. Vs. State of Himachal Pradesh and others) has directed the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) to critically review the existing Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000. In compliance with directions of NGT, the Ministry has published notification of the draft Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2013 for public comments.

(ii) During the hearing of Appeal No. 63 of 2012, NGT, Delhi Bench has examined the issue of requirement of environmental clearance for establishment and operation of common bio-medical waste treatment and disposal facilities and given a judgment on 28.11.2013. The NGT has held that bio-medical waste treatment plants are required to obtain environmental clearance in terms of entry 7(d) of the EIA Notification, 2006. The requisite amendment is still at proposal stage.

(iii) The NGT in Appeal No: 22/2011, Mahesh Chandulal Solanki Vs Union of India & Ors, M/s.

Jindal Saw Limited has passed a judgment on 12.8.2013 directing the Ministry of Environment & Forests as a nodal agency for preparing a draft scheme for establishment of Environment Protection Fund whereby the units which operate without compliance(s) to the norms of environmental laws shall be made liable to contribute to Environment Protection Fund, appropriately, depending upon the nature of the industry/unit, the production capacity, etc The proposal is under process.

(iv) In compliance of the order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court dated 27.02.2012 in I. A. No. 12-13 of 2011 in SLP (C) No. 19628-19629 of 2009 titled Deepak Kumar etc. Vs State of Haryana & Ors., the Ministry of Environment and Forests issued an O.M. No. L 11011/47/2011-IA.II(M) dated 18.05.2012 stating inter-alia that all mining projects of minor minerals including their renewal, irrespective of the size of the lease would henceforth require prior Environmental clearance and that projects of minor minerals with lease area less than 5 ha would be treated as Category “B” as defined in EIA Notification, 2006 and will be considered by the respective State Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs) notified by MoEF and following the procedure prescribed under the EIA Notification, 2006. NGT, Delhi Bench, vide order dated 05.08.2013, in Application no. 171/2013 in the matter of NGT Bar Association Vs MoEF & Ors, has reiterated the judgment of Supreme Court that all mining projects of minor minerals including their renewal, irrespective of the size of the lease would henceforth require prior Environmental Clearance. MoEF has also issued an amendment to EIA Notification vide S.O. 2731(E) dated 09.09.2013. Accordingly the minor mineral mining projects having less than 5 hectare of lease area are required to be appraised by the SEIAA/SEAC of respective State for granting environment clearance.

(c) No, Sir.

TREE CENSUS 6th February, 2014

RSQ 1650 SMT. T. RATNA BAI SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to State:

(a) whether Government has conducted tree census; if so, the details thereof during the last five years, State-wise, State-wise particularly in Delhi; and

(b) if not, the reasons therefor ? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR M. VEERAPPA MOILY):

(a) & (b) No tree census has been conducted at the National level. However, Forest Survey of India (FSI) brings out a biennial India State of Forest Report (ISFR). This report contains information on forest and tree cover including estimated number of stems by species and diameter class in “Trees outside forests” at country level, based on sample survey. The Delhi Tree Authority under the provisions of Delhi Preservation of Tree Act, 1994 has taken initiative for conducting tree census in Delhi. This tree census at pilot level, with the involvement of Resident Welfare Associations (RWA’s) /Eco-clubs has been completed at 21 locations in Delhi, as per the details given in Annexure-I .

Annexure I Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) & (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred

Question No. 1650 due for answer on 06.02.2014 regarding ‘Tree Census’

List of locations where Tree Census at Pilot level has been conducted

. No. Name of the locations in Delhi 1. Mayur Vihar B-5 2. Mayur Vihar Phase-3 A-I Block 3. CR Park 4. Samachar Apartment 5. Rohini 6. Saraswati Vihar 7. Palam

8. Hanuman Road 9. Paschim Vihar 10. Dhaula Kuan 11. Khar khari 12. Meerabai CGHS 13. Nava Krali CGHS

14. Ratnakar CGHS 15. Rehaysi Jan Kalvan Smiti 16. Sawan CGHS 17. RWA19 Kalvanpuri,Delhi-1100091 18. RWA Gazipur DDA Flats Vikas Smiti

19. Achiever Social Associates Khichripur 20. Askash Bharti CGHS Paatpargani 21. Block Sudhar Smiti Nandnagri A-2 Market

IUCN Red List of Birds 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1651 DR. CHANDAN MITRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

a) whether 15 avian species found in India have figured under the list of critically endangered in the latest International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Birds;

b) if so, the details thereof along with the reasons for decline of these species; and

c) the steps taken by Government for conservation of remaining habitats in wetlands, grasslands and forests and riverline across the country and the species dependent on them?

MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (Dr. M.VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) and (b) According to International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list of birds, the information contained in the IUCN Red list version 2013.2indicatesthat 15 species of birds from India are critically endangered.The details of the bird species reported from India which are at Annexure. The major reasons for decline in the population of birds are: loss, modification, fragmentation and degradation of habitat, environmental contaminants, poaching, land use changes particularly conversion of large areas to intensive crop cultivation, changes in cropping pattern due to various reasons including implementation of irrigation schemes, increased pesticide usage and livestock-grazing, high levels of disturbance, developmental activities like mining and hydel projects. Threats posed by infrastructure development, such as collisions with vehicles, power-lines and wind turbines, further exacerbate the situation. c) The steps taken by Government for conservation of remaining habitats in wet lands, grass lands and forests and river line across the country and species dependent on them are given below. 1. Financial and Technical assistance is provided to State/Union Territory Governments for protection and Management of Protected Areas as well as other forests under Centrally Sponsored Schemes. 2. India is signatory to several major international conventions relating to conservation and management of wildlife, including endangered species of birds. These are, Convention on Biological Diversity, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). 3. The Central Government has enacted the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 for protection of wildlife including birds. The Act, inter alia, provides for creation of Protected Areas for protection of wild life and also provides for punishment for hunting of specified fauna including birds specified in the schedules I to IV thereof. Important habitats of birds have been notified as Protected Areas under the Act 4. Wetland (Conservation and Management)Rules 2010 have been framed for protection of wetlands, in the States, which are habitats of birds. The Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Eco-System also provides assistance to the States for management of wet lands including Ramsar sites in the country. 5. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been established for control of illegal trade in wildlife, including endangered species of birds and their parts and products. 6. Research and monitoring activities on birds are promoted by the Government through reputed research organizations. Wildlife Institute of India, Bombay Natural History society and Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History are some of the research organizations undertaking research on conservation of birds. 7. The Indian Government has banned the veterinary use of diclofenac drug that has caused rapid population decline of Gyps vulture across the Indian Subcontinent. Conservation Breeding Programmes to conserve these vulture species have been initiated at Pinjore (Haryana), Buxa (West Bengal) and Rani, Guwahati (Assam) by the Bombay Natural History Society.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) AND (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.1651 REGARDING “IUCN RED LIST OF BIRDS”DR. CHANDAN MITRA DUE FOR REPLY ON 06.02.2014

Details of bird species reported from India which are listed as Critically Endangered in IUCN

Red List version 2013.2

No Common Name Scientific Name 1 Baer's Pochard Aythyabaeri 2 Forest Owlet Heteroglauxblewitti3 Great Indian Bustard Ardeotisnigriceps4 Bengal Florican Houbaropsisbengalensis 5 Siberian Crane Grusleucogeranus 6 Spoon-billed Sandpiper Eurynorhynchuspygmeus 7 Sociable Lapwing Vanellusgregarius 8 Jerdon's Courser Rhinoptilusbitorquatus 9 White backed Vulture Gyps bengalensis 10 Red-headed Vulture Sarcogypscalvus 11 White-bellied Heron Ardeainsignis

12 Slender-billed Vulture Gyps tenuirostris 13 Indian Vulture Gyps indicus 14 Himalayan Quail Ophrysiasuperciliosa 15 Pink-headed Duck Rhodonessacaryophyllacea

DEPENDENCE OF NGT ON THE MINISTRY 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1652 DR. T.N. SEEMA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT’s) dependence on the Ministry for budgetary and administrative support circumscribes its in dependent functioning;

(b) whether Government has failed to address the issue of shortage of staff and infrastructure faced by various benches of NGT, if so, the reasons therefor;

(c) if not, the details of the total number of benches, the sanctioned and actual staff strength along with the details of infrastructure and facilities provided to them; and

(d) the details of the pending demands and indents from NGT for necessary infrastructure, court structure, staff and other related requirements?

MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (Dr. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) No, Sir. (b) No, Sir. (c) The Principal Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) is at Delhi. Besides the Principal Bench,

NGT Benches are operational at Chennai, Bhopal and Pune. The NGT Bench at Kolkata is yet to become operational. The total number of posts sanctioned for the Principal and other four Benches, for different categories, is 120. As per information received from the Tribunal, total number of posts filled till now are 43. In addition, NGT has appointed 68 personnel on outsourcing/contract basis and 44 Multi Tasking Staff whose case is pending litigation in court.

(d) The demands and indents from NGT for necessary infrastructure, court structure, staff and other related

requirements as and when received are examined and decided as per extant rules/orders/instructions of the Government of India on the subject.

REVIEW OF GOVERNMENT ORDER ON INSISTING FRESH FOREST CLEARANCES 6th February, 2014

RSQ 1653 DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: (a) whether it is a fact that Mining companies have approached Government to review the order issued by

the Ministry in regard to obtaining fresh forest clearances by mining companies for their entire lease areas by January, 2015, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether the request of the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries has been taken into consideration by Government, if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and

(c) the stand of Government in this regard? MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY)

(a) to (c) Ministry of Environment and Forests vide letter dated 1st February 2013 informed the all State/ Union Territory Governments inter–alia as below: (i) Henceforth, in case of mining leases having forest land in part or in full, approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (FC Act) for diversion of entire forest land located within the mining shall be obtained before execution/renewal of the lease under the Mines and Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. Applications seeking prior approval under FC Act for diversion of the entire forest land (and not a portion thereof) located within the area proposed to be assigned on lease shall only be accepted by the Nodal Officers in the concerned State/ Union Territory Governments. (ii) All State/UT Governments shall within a period of three months submit to the MoEF details of all such mines where approval under the FC Act for diversion of only a part of forest land has either been obtained or is presently under examination in the State/Central Government. The State Governments in all such cases shall request the concerned user agencies to submit application to obtain approval under the FC Act for diversion of the remaining forest land located within the mining lease. Mining in such leases after two years will be allowed only if the user agency either obtains approval under the FC Act for the entire forest land located within the mining lease or surrenders such forest land for which approval under FC Act has not been obtained and execute a revised mining lease for the reduced lease area. The Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) vide their letter dated July 5, 2013 requested the MoEF that above guidelines may be considered for review and provision of obtaining approval under the FC Act for diversion of entire forest land located within the mining lease within a period of two years should not be insisted. The FIMI in their said letter further suggested that the said guidelines may be amended to provide that all Project Proponents must file application to seek approval under the FC Act for diversion of entire forest land located within the mining lease within a period of one year, failing which mine will be closed till the project proponent submits application to seek approval under the FC Act. The said representation of the FIMI is presently under consideration of the MoEF. GREENING OF DEGRADED LANDS 6th February, 2014

RSQ 1654 DR. V. MAITREYAN: Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has envisaged the greening of degraded lands, afforestation and eco-restoration of ecologically sensitive areas and the technology-based monitoring of forest cover, bio-diversity through dedicated satellite by 2017, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) whether Government has plans toestablish an open web-based NationalForestry and Environmental Informationsystem for research and public accessibilityby 2015 and Green Guards/CommunityForesters for every Joint ForestManagement (JFM) village by 2016, if so,the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (Dr. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a)& (b) The National Mission for Green India is a new initiative by the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the National Action Plan for Climate Change (NAPCC). The Mission inter-aliaaims to increase forest and tree cover on 5 million ha area and to improve quality of forest cover on another 5 million ha area which also envisages eco-restoration/afforestation in degraded forest lands and ecologically sensitive areas. The mission also envisages engagement of community foresters to facilitate implementation of mission activities at the local level and also to provide skilled employment opportunity to community youths. Presently, the Forest Survey of India carries out monitoring of forest cover through space borne remote sensing using LISS-III data of Indian Remote Sensing Satellite and the Planning Commission has included the technology based monitoring of forest cover and biodiversity through dedicated satellite as one among the monitorable targets for the twelfth plan. The Ministry is operating a website under the Environmental Information System (ENVIS) Scheme. Under the ENVIS scheme presently there are 67 ENVIS Centres on various thematic and state-related issues while the National Forestry Information System is initiated by the Ministry for technology based monitoring of

afforestation programmes/schemes undertaken by the State Forest Departments under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes.

DETAILS OF CSR FUNDS FOR AFFORESTATION PROJECTS 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1655 DR.V. MAITREYAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds allocated by PSUs and Banks in the last three years for afforestation projects in various States/UTs in the country;

(b) whether the Committee on Environment and Forests has recommended to the Ministry to take up the matter with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and necessary amendments in the Bill were made to provide for afforestation as an activity which could be undertaken under CSR; and

(c) if so, the details thereof and the action taken in this regard?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) As per the information received from the Nodal Department i.e. Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, the details of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds allocated by Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) for afforestation projects in various States/UTs are not maintained centrally by them. (b) and (c) The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science & Technology, Environment and Forests has recommended to make a provision in the Companies Bill, 2012 for earmarking 50% of the 2% of the net profit of the companies under CSR activities toinvest exclusively for afforestation. Accordingly, Ministry of Environment and Forests vigorously took up this issue with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs for incorporating the above recommendations while framing the rules/guidelines thereunder, to channelize sizable investments dedicated to the cause of tree plantation especially in suitable non forest lands to improve the forest and tree cover in the country. The Companies Act, 2013 has since been passed by both the Houses of the Parliament and also assented to by the President of India and as intimated by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, item (vi) of Schedule VII of the Act allows the companies to include activities relating to “Ensuring environmental sustainability” in their CSR policies.

PLAN TO PROTECT COASTAL DISTRICTS 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1656 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA


(a) whether Government is aware that lakhs of trees have been destroyed in sea shore and coastal areas in 1999 tsunami and 2013 phailin;

(b) whether Government has any plan to implement the projects of mangrove trees and jhaun trees in all 480 kms. coastal line of Odisha along with sea embankment to protect the coastal districts people from cyclone, tsunami, super cyclone, tornado and phailin, and all natural calamities; and

(c) whether there is any plan estimate and whether it is included in the Twelfth Five Year Plan, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY)

(a) The Government is aware that large number of trees have been destroyed in the sea shore & coastal areas in 1999 Tsunami & Phailin of 2013. (b) & (c) The Ministry has a Centrally Sponsored Scheme on Conservation and Management of Mangroves and Coral Reefs in the country. On a nation-wide basis, 38 sites for Mangroves have been identified for planting of mangroves and their conservation and management. The State-wise list is Annexed. Under the Scheme, 100% central assistance is extended to Coastal States/Union Territories(including Odisha), who so request, for implementation of their approved Management Action Plans which comprise components such as Survey and Demarcation, Afforestation and Restoration of Mangroves, Alternate and Supplementary Livelihoods, Protection Measures, Education & Awareness etc. The outlay for the XII Five Year Plan under the Scheme is Rs.50.00 crores with an annual allocation of Rs.10.00 crores. During the year 2011-12, 2012-13 & 2013-14, an amount of Rs. 150.24 lakhs has been released to the State Government of Odisha under the Scheme.

ANNEXURE ANNEXURE REFFERED TO PART (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1656 DUE FOR REPLY ON 06.02.2014 REGARDING PLANT TO PROTECT COASTAL DISTRICTS ASKED BY SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

State/Union Territories Mangrove Sites West Bengal Sunderbans Odisha Bhaitarkanika

Mahanadi Subernarekha Devi-Kadua

Dhamra Mangrove Genetic Resources Centre Chilka

Andhra Pradesh Coringa East Godavari Krishna

Tamil Nadu Pichavaram Muthupet Ramnad Pulicat Kazhuveli

Andaman & Nicobar North Andamans Nicobar

Kerala Vembanad Kannur (Northern Kerala)

Karnataka Coondapur Dakshin Kannada/Honnavar Karwar Manglore Forest Division

Goa Goa Maharashtra Achra-Ratnagiri

Devgarh-Vijay Durg Veldur Kundalika-Revdanda Mumbra-Diva Vikroli Shreevardhan Vaitarna Vasai-Manori

Malvan

Gujarat Gulf of Kutchh Gulf of Khambhat Dumas-Ubhrat

IRRIGATION PROJECTS PENDING IN THE ABSENCE OF ENVIRONMENT AND FOREST CLEARANCE 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1658 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of irrigation projects that have been pending in the absence of environment and forest clearance, the State-wise detailed list thereof;

(b) the land area of these irrigation projects; and (c) whether State Governments have made special request to clear these projects, if so, the details thereof

?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c) Irrigation projects covering more than 10,000 hectare (ha.) or higher irrigable command area and with potential to cause submergence require environment clearance from Union Government. In addition, irrigation projects with proximity to National Park/Sanctuary, Biosphere Reserve and/or projects situated within 10 Kms. of inter-state boundary also require similar environment clearance. These proposals are processed for environment clearance as per the provisions stipulated under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 and as amended from time to time. The proposals for forest clearance are dealt with as per the provisions stipulated under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the rules and regulations framed there-under. A State-wise list of irrigation projects awaiting environment and forest clearances is annexed. Annexure referred to in reply to parts (a) to ( c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1658 to be answered on Thursday, the 6th February, 2014 on “Irrigation projects pending in the absence of environment & forest clearance”

State-wise details of Irrigation Projects under consideration for

(1) Environmental Clearance

Sl. No. State Irrigation Project Details Land area proposed to

be irrigated (in hectare)

1 Maharashtra &

Andhra Pradesh

Lendi Major Irrigation (Interstate) Project in Nanded District, Maharashtra & Nizamabad District, Andhra Pradesh.

49,000

2 Maharashtra Lower Tapi Lift Irrigation Scheme in Jalagaon District.

25,657

3 Maharashtra Krishna Marathwada Lift Irrigation Project at Osmanabad.

87,188

4 Karnataka Shiggaon Lift Irrigation Scheme in Haveri District.

9,900

5 Madhya Pradesh

Bina Complex Irrigation and Multipurpose Project (24 MW + 10 MW) in Sagar District.

97,747

6 Madhya Pradesh

Mohanpura Major Irrigation Project in Rajgarh District.

92,860

7 Madhya Pradesh

Ghogra Minor (Upper Ghogra Irrigation) Project in Sehore District.

1,650

8 Madhya Pradesh

Bansujara Major Irrigation Project in Sehore District.

54,000

9 Madhya Pradesh

Kundaliya Irrigation Project in Tikamgarh & Chhatarpur Districts.

58,040

10 Odisha Jeera Irrigation Project in Bargarh District.

6,000

(2) Forest Clearance

Sl. No.

State Proposal Name Area of Forest Land involved

(in hectare)

1

Haryana

Diversion of 0.165 hectare (ha.) forest land for construction of bridge over Gurgaon Canal Feeder RD 29800, Faridabad

0.165

2

Karnataka

Diversion of 8.498 ha. for construction of Ubrani Amruthapura Multipurpose lift irrigation scheme in Bhadravathi Division catering to Shimoga, Chickmagalur and Davangere Districts.

8.498

3 Madhya Pradesh Kundaliya major multipurpose project

680.27

4 Madhya Pradesh Barkheda Tank

8.06

5 Madhya Pradesh Surajpura Tank

28.9

6 Madhya Pradesh Jalandhar Tank

5

7 Madhya Pradesh Harpura Irrigation and Canal Tank Linking Project

12.76

8 Madhya Pradesh Ram Dasi Tank Project

1.3

9

Maharashtra

Construction of minor irrigation tank under Raigad Irrigation Division

6.028

10

Punjab

Div. of 0.0021 ha of forest land for approach road to Establishment of Tubewell on DHS road km. 395-396 L/s Teh. Fazilka under Forest Division & Distt. Ferozepur.

0.0021

11

Rajasthan

Construction of main canal left & right in Gardhara irrigation project.

18.573

12

Uttar Pradesh

Diversion of 60.150 ha of forest land for construction of Rapi main canal in Shravasti District.

60.15

13

Uttar Pradesh

Construction of Adva Bairaj Submergence Area

27.19

CONSULTATION BEFORE PUBLICATION OF KASTURIRANGAN NOTIFICATION 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1659 SHRI P. RAJEEVE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry has consulted with the State Governments on Kasturirangan Commission on Western Ghats before publishing the notification, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) whether the Ministry has any plans to defer or withdraw the notification about the zones in the Western Ghats, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (Dr. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) The High Level Working Group (HLWG) submitted its report to the Ministry of Environment and Forests on 15th April, 2013. The report was put in public domain by hosting on the Ministry’s website inviting comments of all stakeholders. The Ministry had also sent the HLWG report to the State Governments of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu for eliciting their comments/views. On completion of the consultation process, the Ministry has accepted the High Level Working Group Report “in principle” subject to certain stipulations. (b) The Ministry has issued Office Memorandum dated 20th December 2013 regarding the “in principle” acceptance of the HLWG report and also issued Directions under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 dated 13th November 2013 with a view to providing immediate protection to the Western Ghats and maintain its environmental integrity. As such, the Ministry has not issued any draft notification for declaration of the area identified by the HLWG as Ecologically Sensitive under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Considering the seriousness of the matter, the Ministry has written on 16th January 2014 to the CMs of all six states in the Western Ghats region seeking their views on the HLWG recommendations, especially on concerns which might not have been addressed in the OM of the Ministry dated 20th December 2013. Their views have been sought within one month so that the Ministry may consider the same before issuing the draft notification for declaring the Ecologically Sensitive Area in the Western Ghats. DISCHARGE OF UNTREATED SEWAGE WATER 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1660 SHRIMATI KUSUM RAI SHRI PRABHAT JHA SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH


(a) whether discharge of untreated sewage water is the most polluting source in the country; (b) if so, whether 1/5th of centrally funded sewage treatment plants in the country are non-functional, as

per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether as per the performance evaluation of CPCB, out of 152 STPs, 9 plants are under construction,

30 are nonoperational and performance of 28 plants are not satisfactory and if so, the reasons therefor? THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) Disposal of untreated domestic sewage is one of the major sources of water pollution in the country. According to the study carried out by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in 2009-10, against an estimated generation of about 38,254 million litres per day (mld) from Class-I cities and Class-II towns of the country, the treatment capacity is available only for 11,787 mld. (b) & (c) As per CPCB’s report of August, 2013 on ‘Performance evaluation of sewage treatment plants (STPs) under NRCD’, out of 152 STPs constructed under National River Conservation Plan, 63 STPs were complying with the prescribed standards, 32 STPs were not operational, 48 STPs were not complying with prescribed standards and 9 STPs were under construction. State-wise details are at Annexure. The main reasons for non- compliance of STPs are poor operation & maintenance, unskilled manpower, frequent power failure, absence of proper back-up arrangement to run the STPs, etc.

Annexure referred to in reply to parts (b) & (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1660 to be answered on Thursday, the 6th February, 2014 on “Discharge of untreated sewage water”

State-Wise Details of Sewage Treatment Plants constructed under National River Conservation Plan

S. No.

State Total STPs

STPs meeting standards

STPs not meeting standards

STPs non-operational

STPs under construction

1. Andhra Pradesh 10 2 2 5 1 2. Bihar 5 3 1 1 - 3. Delhi 2 2 0 - - 4. Goa 1 1 0 - - 5. Gujrat 2 1 1 - - 6. Haryana 16 - 14 2 - 7. Karnataka 9 5 1 1 2 8. Kerala 1 - 0 0 1 9. Madhya Pradesh 9 5 4 - 10. Maharashtra 6 2 1 1 2 11. Punjab 11 5 6 0 - 12. Tamil Nadu 18 12 1 3 2 13. Uttar Pradesh 24 9 12 2 1 14. Uttarakhand 4 3 1 0 - 15. West Bengal 34 18 3 13 -

Total 152 63 48 32 9

MINING APPROVAL IN UTTARAKHAND 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1662 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry has given approval for mining products like sand, stone etc. from rivers in

Uttarakhand;

(b) if so, whether the Ministry is aware that due to excessive and improper mining there is a danger looming on the very existence of forest and agricultural land in the State; and

(c) if so, the steps proposed to be taken to check such indiscriminate mining?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) : Yes Sir (b) & (c): Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) had constituted a Group under the Chairmanship of the then Secretary (E&F) to look into the environmental aspects associated with mining of minor minerals in 2009 and to evolve guidelines for sustainable mining of Minor Minerals. The report of the Group was sent to all States in June 2010 with the request for incorporating in the Mineral Concessions Rules for mining of minor minerals u/s 15 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, the recommendations contained in the report which inter-alia include–minimum size of mine lease should be 5 ha; minimum period of mine lease should be 5 years; mine plans should be made mandatory for minor minerals; for river bed mining, leases should be granted stretch-wise, depth may be restricted to 3 m / water level, whichever is less and safety zones should be worked out, etc. MoEF has notified Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 which deals with the process to grant Environment Clearances. The projects of mining of minerals as stated in the schedule require prior environment clearance under this notification. Category ‘A’ Projects are being handled in the MoEF and Category ‘B’ projects are being handled in the respective State Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs) notified by MoEF and following the procedure prescribed under the EIA Notification, 2006. Based on the recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee, the environmental clearance is accorded subject to various conditions and environmental safeguards to be implemented by the project proponent. The implementation of the stipulated conditions is monitored through the Regional Offices of MoEF to ensure satisfactory compliance of environmental safeguards by mining projects. AEROBIC CLASSES USING BLARING LOUDSPEAKERS AT SIRI FORT SPORTS CLUB 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1663 SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that aerobic classes are conducted every day in the morning at DDA's Siri Fort Sports Club, South Delhi using blaring loudspeakers at high volume;

(b) whether it is also a fact that according to the Supreme Court guidelines, use of loud horns, tapered

silencers loudspeakers at high volume are completely banned in public places; and

(c) if so, what action has been taken or proposed to be taken to stop using loudspeakers in aerobic classes with high sound level in DDA's Siri Fort Sports Complex forthwith?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (Dr. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) Aerobic classes are held in a closed hall at DDA Siri Fort Sports Complex, as informed by Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the volume of speakers is kept at reasonable level. The hall is far away from residential area, as reported by DDA. No complaint has been received as per record of HauzKhas Police Station, as informed by Delhi Police.

(b) The Hon’ble Supreme Court vide a judgement dated 18-07-2005 in WP(C) No. 72/1998 with CA No. 3735/2005 arising out of SLP(C) No. 21851/2003 in the matter of “Noise Pollution - Implementation of the Laws for restricting use of loudspeakers as high volume producing sound systems” inter-alia directed that ‘the noise level at the public place, where loudspeakers or public address systems or any other noise sources being used shall not exceed 10 dB(A) above the ambient noise standards for the area or 75 dB(A) whichever is lower.’

This direction has been incorporated and notified in the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 as sub-rule 4 of rule 5 by the Central Government vide SO number 50(E) dated 11th January, 2010. (c) In light of above, no action arises in the matter. SETTING UP OF ENVIRONMENT REGULATOR 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1665 SMT. WANSUK SYIEM


(a) whether the Supreme Court has set a March 31 deadline for the setting up of an environmental regulator;

(b) whether Government has studied the Supreme Court order along with the previous April 2011

judgment on Lafarge Cement Conglomerate: and

(c) whether Government will seek an extension of the Supreme Court deadline and may even consider filing a review petition, especially since it had represented earlier that there is no need for such a regulator?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) The Supreme Court vide its order dated 6.1.2014 in IA Nos. 1868,2091,2225-27,2380,2568 and 2937 in Writ Petition (C) No. 202 of 1995 has inter-alia directed the Government of India to set up a Regulator for appraising projects, enforcing environmental conditions for approvals and to impose penalties on the polluters. The court has directed that the notification appointing the Regulator be filed along with affidavit in the court by 31.3.2014. (b) The Government has studied the Supreme Court order along with previous order dated 6.7.2011 in Lafarge case. (c) The matter is under examination. DETAILS OF DRAINS DISCHARGED IN YAMUNA RIVER 6th February, 2014 RSQ 1666 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number, names and details of drains discharged in Yamuna river after it enters into Delhi; (b) the details of pollution level of the water of the river Yamuna in Delhi; (c) the details of the guidelines issued to the State Government in order to stop the sewage being

discharged into the river Yamuna; (d) the year-wise details of the funds spent on the cleaning of the river Yamuna so far since 2009; and (e) whether Government would ask the State Government to construct a separate drainage for the sewage

which is being discharged into the river Yamuna at present to avoid its entering into the river Yamuna? THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY)

(a) As per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 18 drains in Delhi discharge treated/untreated wastewater directly into river Yamuna. Details of these drains are Annexed. (b) & (c) CPCB has identified the stretch of river Yamuna from Wazirabad to Okhla in Delhi as critically polluted. The BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) levels in the Delhi stretch of the river were ranging from 5-30 mg/l during the lean flow period in the year 2013, and exceed the prescribed limit of 3 mg/l. Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. The Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna by providing financial assistance to Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) since 1993 in a phased manner. A total expenditure of Rs. 1453.17 crore (including State share) has been incurred on schemes pertaining to sewerage/interception and diversion of drains, rehabilitation/upgradation of existing sewage treatment plants (STPs) and construction of new STPs, low cost sanitation/community toilet complexes, electric/improved wood crematoria, etc under YAP Phase-I & II in the three States. Sewage treatment capacity of 942.25 million litres per day (mld) has been created under YAP so far. Further, YAP Phase-III project for Delhi has been approved with an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore. Under YAP-III, Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is implementing rehabilitation of existing trunk sewers and rising mains, upgradation of existing STPs of 814 mld and construction of a new 136 mld STP (in place of the old STP). Besides this, two projects have also been sanctioned by the Ministry at an estimated cost of Rs. 217.87 crore for taking up works for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana. (d) Year-wise details of expenditure incurred by the States since the year 2009 for conservation of river Yamuna under YAP is as under:-

(e) Under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) project of Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD), an interceptor sewer project costing Rs. 1357 crore is being implemented by DJB to intercept sewage flowing into river Yamuna from three major drains, namely Najafgarh, Supplementary and Shahdara in Delhi which will cater to about 82% of Delhi sewage discharging into Yamuna. Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1666 to be answered on Thursday, the 6th February, 2014 on “Details of drains discharged in Yamuna River”.

Details of drains in Delhi discharging into river Yamuna

Year Expenditure incurred, including State share (Rs. Crore)

2009-10 152.45 2010-11 198.64

2011-12 125.18

2012-13 80.03 2013-14 (till December 2013) 54.42

S. no. Name of Drain Discharge (mld)

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) load (Tonnes/day)

1. Najafgarh + Supplementary 2092 104 2. Magzine Road Zone 145 32 3. Sweeper Colony 0.31 6.2 4. Khyber Pass 0.05 4.2 5. Metcalf House 0.26 6.5 6. ISBT + Mori Gate 3.6 45 7. Tonga Stand 7.0 1.2 8. Civil Mill 18.7 1.6 9. Raj Ghat 7.3 0.18 10. Delhi Gate (Power House) 149 11.2 11. Sen Nursing Home 70.5 6.3

PROJECTS CLEARED DURING THE LAST TWO MONTHS 13th February, 2014 RSQ *322 SHRI P. RAJEEVE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of projects that have been cleared by the Ministry during the last two months, the details of these projects; and

(b) whether these applications were pending before the Ministry for a long time; if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PARTS (A) & (B) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.*322 FOR ANSWER ON 13/02/2014 REGARDING PROJECTS CLEARED DURING THE LAST TWO MONTHS (a) During the months of December 2013 and January 2014, 85 Environment Clearance and 102 Stage I Forest Clearances were issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). (b) MoEF processes the proposals of Environment Clearance as per the provisions of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, as amended, which inter-alia prescribes the time lines for consideration of a proposal at various stages. Similarly, the proposals of Forest Clearance are considered as per the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and the Rules and guidelines framed thereunder. The Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 prescribe the time lines for consideration of Forest Clearance proposal. Sometimes delay occurs mainly on account of receipt of incomplete proposal, requirement of site inspection, etc. The receipt of proposals for Environment Clearance and Forest Clearance and their processing to take a view on them is a continuing process. AIR POLLUTION IN RURAL AREAS 13th February, 2014 RSQ *323 SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether air pollution is on the rise in rural areas due to expansion of industries, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether any study has been conducted about the effects of air pollution in rural areas, if so, the details thereof; and

12. Drain No. 14 12.5 0.23 13. Barapulla 143 8.6 14. Maharani Bagh 35.8 4.6 15. Abu Fazal 26.4 0.78 16. Jaitpur 17.5 2.0 17. Tuglakabad 79 5.1 18. Shahdara 1152 78.9 Total 3960 319

(c) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to spread awareness among rural people about air pollution?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c): A statement is laid on the Table of the House Statement referred to in reply to Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 323due for reply on 13.02.2014 regarding ‘Air pollution in rural areas’ by Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Hon’ble Member of Parliament. (a) The air quality in rural areas has not been monitored per se. However, the monitoring of the ambient air quality in rural area of Punjab is initiated by the Punjab Pollution Control Board at four villages, one location each, in four different districts. Ambient air quality in three districts namely Amritsar, Sangrur and Faridkot is being monitored since December, 2012 whereas in Sahid Bhagat Singh Nagar since January, 2014 for three pollutants, namely, Particulate Matter having size equal to or less than 10 micron (PM10), Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2). As per available data, SO2 and NO2are within prescribed norms whereas PM10has exceeded the norms for a few months. The available data is for a short duration and it would be premature to draw a trend. (b) The National Environment Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur has undertaken a study, namely, Control of Indoor Air Pollution in Rural Areas under the Rural Development, SC/ST, Women, North-East and Tribal Sector projects. However, no study has been conducted about the effects of air pollution in rural areas. (c) The Government has taken several steps for spreading awareness among rural people about air pollution which inter-alia includes a programme titled, ‘Paryavaran Darshan’ telecast during June 2010- July 2012 at a cost of Rs. 16.30 crores (approx) at DD National and 18 regional centres of Doordarshanin 12 vernacular languages to create mass awareness in urban and rural areas. The programme was coordinated by the CPCB. Environment has been included as a subject as part of curriculum at school level for students. PROTECTION OF RESERVES AND FORESTS IN ASSAM 13th February, 2014 RSQ *328 SHRI SANTIUSE KUJUR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that most reserves and forests in Assam are under encroachment where people began cultivation by destroying the forest and as a result, the habitat of various species is in danger and on the verge of extinction, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) the steps taken by the State and the Central Government, to protect forests?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *328 BY SHRI SANTIUSE KUJUR REGARDING “PROTECTION OF RESERVES AND FORESTS IN ASSAM” DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.02.2014 (a) As per the report received from State Government, 3304 sq. Kms. of forest area is under encroachment in the State of Assam. No such reports that habitat of various species are in danger and the species are on verge of extinction due to encroachment in Assam, have been received in the Ministry.

(b) The responsibility for protection of forests lies with the State/Union Territory Governments. Under various Plan & Non Plan schemes, State/ Union Territory Governments undertake various measures for forest protection including regular patrolling of the forest areas, establishment of protection camps, building of watch towers, survey and demarcation of forest areas, strengthening of forest infrastructure etc. Further, the Ministry provides financial assistance to the States/ Union Territories including the State of Assam for strengthening the protection mechanism under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme - Intensification of Forest Management. Financial assistance is also provided to the State for protection and conservation of wildlife and its habitat. IMPORT OF E-WASTE IN COUNTRY 13th February, 2014 RSQ *334 SHRI MOTILAL VORA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the quantum of electronic waste generated annually in the country; (b) the names of the countries from which e-waste was imported during the last three years along with its

quantum; (c) whether it is also a fact that several toxic materials are used in the manufacturing of the electronic

devices as a result of which e-waste is toxicating the environment; and (d) if so, the steps being taken by Government to check it?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement referred to in reply to Parts (a) to (d) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 334 for answer on 13th February 2014 regarding “Import of e-waste in country” raised by Shri Motilal Vora. (a) &(b) As per the survey carried out by the Central Pollution Control Board during the year 2005, 1,46,800 MT of e-waste was generated in the country. During the last three years, no permission was granted by the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) for import of e-waste into the country for recycling or re-processing. (c) Toxic constituents such as Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Hexavalent Chromium, Polybrominated biphenyls and Polybrominated diphenyl ethers are used in the manufacturing of electronic devices .The processing of e-waste from such electronic devices, without environmentally sound recycling/processing facilities may affect the human health and environment. (d) The MoEF has notified e-waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 which have become effective from 1st May, 2012. These Rules provide for mandatory authorization of producer, collection centre, dismantler and recycler of e-waste; registration of dismantler and recycler of e-waste from the concerned State Pollution Control Board or Pollution Control Committee of Union Territory; and ‘Extended Producer Responsibility’ under which producers will be responsible for collection and channelization of e-waste generated from their products after their useful life to the registered dismantler or recycler. The Rules also have provision for reduction of hazardous substances in the manufacture of electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS) , which will become effective from 1st May 2014. Import and export of e-waste are regulated under Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movements) Rules, 2008. DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND 13th February, 2014 RSQ *335

DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether there exists any legal provision for diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes including developmental activities in the country, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether Government has received any requests from the State Governments/Non-Governmental Organizations for diversion of forest land for non-forestry purpose during the last three years; and

(c) if so, the details thereof and action taken by Government in this regard? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) ( a) to (c) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 335 BY DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE REGARDING ‘DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.02.2014. (a) to (c) Section 2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 inter-alia provides that notwithstanding anything contained in any other law for the time being in force in a State, no State Government or other authority shall make, except with the prior approval of the Central Government, any order directing that any forest land or any portion thereof may be used for any non-forest purpose. Accordingly, State Governments and the Union Territory Administrations submit proposals to the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) to obtain prior approval of Central Government for use of forest land for non-forest purpose. State/Union Territory-wise details of proposals received by the Central Government during the last three years (2011 to 2013) to obtain its prior approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose along with status of these proposals are annexed.

ANNEXURE Annexure referred to in answer to parts (a) to (c) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 335 on ‘Diversion of forest land’ asked by Dr. Janardhan Waghmare due for reply on 13.02.2014 State/Union Territory-wise details of proposals received by the Central Government during the last three years (2011 to 2013) to obtain its prior approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose along with status of these proposals

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1 Andaman and Nicobar 14 6 6 0 0 0 2

2 Andhra Pradesh 28 8 10 2 4 1 3 3 Arunachal

Pradesh 18 2 6 0 0 0 10 4 Assam 3 0 2 0 0 0 1 5 Bihar 51 7 35 0 0 0 9 6 Chandigarh 7 4 1 0 0 0 2 7 Chhattisgarh 22 4 9 1 0 0 8 8 Dadar & Nagar

Haveli 8 3 5 0 0 0 0 9 Daman and Diu 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

10 Delhi 4 2 1 0 0 0 1 11 Goa 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 Gujarat 99 23 60 0 0 0 16 13 Haryana 661 376 145 0 0 0 140 14 Himachal

Pradesh 125 23 58 2 0 0 4215* Jammu and

Kashmir* 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 16 Jharkhand 40 7 19 0 0 0 14 17 Karnataka 23 2 10 8 0 0 3 18 Kerala 4 2 2 0 0 0 0 19 Lakshadweep 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 20 Madhya Pradesh 51 13 17 2 0 0 19 21 Maharashtra 56 27 25 0 0 1 3 22 Manipur 3 0 2 0 0 0 1 23 Meghalaya 3 2 1 0 0 0 0 24 Mizoram 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 25 Nagaland 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 26 Orissa 33 9 18 0 0 0 6 27 Pondicherry 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 28 Punjab 651 293 219 0 0 0 139 29 Rajasthan 57 4 30 1 0 1 21

30 Sikkim 6 5 1 0 0 0 0 31 Tamil Nadu 9 2 5 0 0 1 1 32 Tripura 4 1 0 0 0 0 3 33 Uttar Pradesh 360 90 114 3 2 1 150 34 Uttarakhand 369 18 128 23 0 74 126 35 West Bengal 8 3 4 0 0 0 1

Total 2718 936 934 42 6 79 721 *: Provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 do not extend to the Jammu and Kashmir. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO POSCO STEEL PLANT PROJECT 13th February, 2014 RSQ *336 SHRI M.P.ACHUTHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Ministry has given environmental clearance to the Posco Steel Plant Project;

(b) whether Government is aware of the prolonged popular resistance and also the opposition of the National Green Tribunal under the Forest Conservation Act against this project; and

(c) if so, the details thereof and reasons for giving clearance rejecting all oppositions to the project? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) to (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 336 REGARDING “ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO POSCO STEEL PLANT PROJECT” ASKED BY SHRI M.P.ACHUTHAN DUE FOR ANSWER ON 13.02.2014 (a) Yes, Sir. The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) accorded environmental clearance to M/s. POSCO India Private Limited on 19.07.2007 for setting up of an Integrated Iron and Steel Plant of 4 MTPA capacity with a Captive Power Plant (4x100MW) at Kujang, near Paradip, Jagatsinghpur in Odisha, subject to various environmental safeguards. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has extended the validity of the environmental clearance up to 18.07.2017 on 07.01.2014. (b) & (c) Before according the environmental clearance, consultation on the project was done through a Public Hearing conducted by the Odisha State Pollution Control Board on 15.04.2007. The Ministry of Environment & Forests received representations regarding Palli Sabha Resolution from the POSCO Parthirodha Sangram Samiti on the transfer of forest land vis-à-vis the forest rights of the tribal and forest dwellers under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. Based on the comments of the State Government of Odisha on the said Palli Sabha Resolution and the provisions of the Orissa Gram Panchayat Act, 1964, the Forest Rights Act, 2006 and the Forest Rights Rules, 2007, the Ministry of Environment and Forests accorded final approval on 04.05.2011 under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land subject to compliance of various conditions. In addition, the MOEF also imposed additional environmental conditions vide letter dated 31.01.2011 based on report of a four-member committee constituted to address concerns raised by various stakeholders. An appeal (No. 8/2011) was filed in the National Green Tribunal (NGT) challenging the environmental clearance granted on 19.07.2007 along with additional conditions imposed by the Ministry on 31.01.2011. The Ministry, in pursuance of the directions given by the Hon’ble National Green Tribunal on 30.3.2012, constituted an Expert Committee with relevant expertise. The recommendations of this Committee headed by Shri K.Roy Paul and the plan of action of M/s POSCO thereto were considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee

(Industry) [EAC(I)] of the Ministry. The EAC(I) recommended extending the validity of the environmental clearance dated 19.07.2007, subject to environmental safeguards such as land optimisation, water storage including rainwater harvesting particularly during lean period, water usage including recyling and treatment and earmarking of 5% of the total cost of the project towards ‘Enterprise Social Commitment ‘ based on local needs. Based on the recommendations of the EAC(I), MoEF has revalidated the Environment Clearance accorded to M/s Posco India Private Limited on 7th January 2014 subject to various environmental safeguards. In case titled “Prafulla Samantra versus Union of India & Ors.” (Original Application No. 123 of 2013) before NGT, the applicant had prayed that prohibitory orders be issued against POSCO to stop work, including tree felling in the forestland until the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 are complied with and appropriate Order in that regard is issued by the State Government. The NGT, vide its order dated 24.01.2014, has disposed of this application. The Order inter-alia states that the project proponent is at liberty to approach the State Government for appropriate orders in accordance with law and that till such order is passed by the Competent Authority, the project proponent would not carry on cutting/felling in the forest area. SATELLITE MEASUREMENT REPORT 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2337 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the steps taken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests for creating awareness about the environment pollution and forest protection;

(b) whether the forest coverage of our country is increasing, if so, the State-wise details for last three years; and

(c) whether the Satellite measurement also include the sugarcane, wheat and cornfield if so, how to eliminate these area in the satellite measurement report?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) Environment Education, Awareness and Training (EEAT) is a flagship scheme of the Ministry of Environment and Forests for enhancing awareness and understanding of people at all levels about the relationship between human beings and the environment. It also aims to develop capabilities to improve and protect the environment. Under this scheme there are two major programmes namely National Green Corps (NGC) and National Environment Awareness Campaign (NEAC) in which financial assistance is provided to various organisations for the protection of environment in the Country. Further, 1% of funds under National Afforestation Programme (NAP) are provided to States for awareness programs. A number of awards have also been instituted by the Ministry to recognise exemplary efforts in the field of Environment and Forests protection. Every year World Forestry Day, World Earth Day, World Environment Day, Van Mahotsav and Wildlife Week are also celebrated with the objective of creating awareness about forest and environment. (b) According to the biennial report of Forest Survey of India 2011, the forest cover of the country has decreased between 2009 assessment and 2011 assessment. State / Union Territory wise details of forest cover are at Annexure I. (c) The satellite based assessment of forest cover reported by the Forest Survey of India, Dehradun does not include sugarcane, wheat and cornfield.

ANNEXURE I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2337 DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.02.2014 REGARDING SATELLITE MANAGEMENT REPORT BY SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA (Forest Cover Area in Sq.Km)

States/ Union Territories India State of Forest Report 2009 India State of Forest Report 2011

Andhra Pradesh 46670 46389 Arunachal Pradesh 67484 67410 Assam 27692 27673 Bihar 6804 6845 Chhattisgarh 55678 55674 Delhi 177 176 Goa 2212 2219 Gujarat 14620 14619 Haryana 1594 1608 Himachal Pradesh 14668 14679 Jammu & Kashmir 22537 22539 Jharkhand 22894 22977 Karnataka 36190 36194 Kerala 17324 17300 Madhya Pradesh 77700 77700 Maharashtra 50650 50646 Manipur 17280 17090 Meghalaya 17321 17275 Mizoram 19183 19117 Nagaland 13464 13318 Odhisa 48855 48903 Punjab 1664 1764 Rajasthan 16036 16087 Sikkim 3359 3359 Tamil Nadu 23551 23625 Tripura 7985 7977 Uttar Pradesh 14341 14338 Uttarakhand 24495 24496 West Bengal 12994 12995 Andaman & Nicobar 6662 6724 Chandigarh 17 17 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 211 211 Daman & Diu 6 6 Lakshadweep 26 27 Puducherry 50 50 Grand Total 692394 692027

CONSERVATION OF MUSK DEERS 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2338 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the names of States where musk deers are found and at what altitudes; (b) the steps taken by Central Government so far for the conservation of musk deers; (c) whether Government is bringing an ordinance for the conservation of musk deer; and (d) if so, at what altitude Government will start the conservation of the musk deers?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) In India the musk deer is reported to occur in the States of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. The deer is mostly found at an altitude of more than 2,500 m above sea level. (b) The above five Himalayan States have declared Protected Areas under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 that include habitats of musk deer. The Musk deer is included in Schedule-I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 granting it the highest protection against illegal hunting and trade. The Act also empowers specified officers to prevent commission of offences. Protection of wildlife and prevention of wildlife offences are the mandate of the State Forest Departments. The government has also set up the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for, inter alia, collecting in collecting intelligence related to organised wildlife crime activities and to disseminate the same to State and other enforcement agencies. (c) No, Sir. (d) Does not arise in view of (c ) above. AIR AND WATER QUALITY IN SIX METROS 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2339 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that air and water quality has worsened in all six metros in the country as per report of TERI Environmental survey;

(b) if so, the details thereof, inter-alia indicating the status of Delhi; and (c) whether Government has worked out an action plan to address the above issue, if so, the details

thereof? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a). The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) has published a report titled ‘TERI Environment Survey 2013’ for Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata. The report is based on public survey, newspaper reports, etc. The opinion of public based on individual perception is indicative rather than conclusive. The quality of ambient air, surface water and groundwater in above mentioned cities is regularly monitored by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in association with concerned State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs). (b). As per report, the perceptions on air quality and drinking water quality and availability in Delhi are found to be divided with more or less similar percentages stating contrary views. (c). The CPCB and SPCBs have taken various steps to contain air and water pollution which, inter-alia, include strict implementation of emission and effluent norms in polluting industries, supply of improved diesel and gasoline, promotion of mass rapid transport, implementation of city- specific ambient air improvement programme for 17 identified cities, monitoring of area specific action plan for 43 critically polluted areas, monitoring of common effluent treatment plants to treat effluent from SSI units, implementation of river specific action plans, monitoring of treated sewage quality arising from sewage treatment plants, etc. NEW PANEL TO ;TUDY WESTERN GHATS

13th February, 2014 RSQ 2340 DR. K.P. RAMALINGAM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is considering to appoint a new panel to study Western Ghats, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) whether it is also a fact that Government has made it clear that the States concerned should appoint Committees respectively to assess the kind of activities that could be allowed in the tract, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) There is no such proposal by the Government to appoint a new panel to study Western Ghats. (b) The Ministry has not asked the concerned State Governments to appoint Committees to assess the kind of activities that could be allowed in the Ecologically Sensitive Area of Western Ghats as identified by the High Level Working Group (HLWG). However, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has written on 16th January 2014 to the Chief Ministers of all six states in the Western Ghats region seeking their views on the HLWG recommendations. In order to provide immediate protection to the Western Ghats and to maintain its environmental integrity, the Ministry had issued Directions under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 dated 13th November 2013. As per the Directions, the following five categories of new and/or expansion projects/activities which have maximum interventionist and damaging impacts on ecosystems would not be considered for granting Environmental Clearance in the Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA), as identified by the High Level Working Group, in the Western Ghats from 17th April 2013:

(a) Mining, quarrying and sand mining (b) Thermal Power Plants (c) Building and construction projects of 20,000 sq. m. area and above (d) Township and area development projects with an area of 50 ha and above and /or with built up

area of 1,50,000 sq. m. and above (e) Red category of industries

POLLUTION IN GANGA 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2341 SHRI PARVEZ HASHMI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware that saints have demonstrated and protested during this Mahakumbh in Allahabad against the pollution in Holy Ganga, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether it is a fact that they have protested against the present/existing ways to save Ganga; and (c) the details of the fresh action Government would like to take to save our lifeline, the river Ganga?

THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) As per information provided by the Government of U.P., demonstrations and protests by saints, during Mahakumbh in Allahabad, against pollution in river Ganga have not been reported.

Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. The Central Government supplements the efforts of the State Governments in river conservation through the central plans. River conservation activities such as creation of civic infrastructure for sewage management and disposal are also being implemented under other central schemes, such as Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission, Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns, as well as under state schemes. (c) As a new initiative, the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) was constituted in February 2009, as an empowered, planning, financing, monitoring and coordinating authority with the objective to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic river basin approach. The works under NGRBA Programme include laying of sewerage system, sewage treatment plants, solid waste management, common effluent treatment plant for controlling industrial pollution, river front management, crematoria etc. Under the NGRBA programme, 61 schemes in 46 towns in Ganga States have been sanctioned at a total cost of Rs. 3546.65 Crores. An amount of Rs. 1080.27 Crores has been released from centre and state and an expenditure of Rs. 804.49 Crores has been incurred till December, 2013 for implementation of the projects. Besides, a consortium of seven Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) has been assigned to prepare a comprehensive River Basin Management Plan for Ganga. The objective of the plan is to suggest comprehensive measures for restoration of the wholesomeness of the Ganga river system and improving its ecological health taking into account the issue of competing water uses in the river basin. FUNDS FOR PROMOTION OF FORESTS IN THE STATES 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2342 SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the total area of forest cover in hectares along with the total geographical area as well as the percentage of forest cover in the country, State-wise;

(b) whether Government proposes to launch a new initiative to expand forest cover in the country; if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and

(c) the scheme-wise details of the funds provided by Government for conservation, development and promotion of forests in the States including Karnataka during the last three years and the current year, State and year-wise?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) The total forest cover of the country is 69,202,700 hectare which is 21.05% of the geographical area. The details of State-wise forest cover in the country is given in Annexure-I. (b) The Ministry has initiated Green India Mission that aims to increase forest and tree cover on 5 million hectare area and to improve quality of forest cover on another 5 million hectare area as well as to improve ecosystem services, forest based livelihood and enhance carbon sequestration. An amount of Rs. 49.95 crores was released to 21 States for carrying out preparatory activities like outreach activities, micro planning, nursery development, landscape survey, entry point activities and soil moisture conservation etc. in the identified landscapes under the Green India Mission during 2011-12. The State wise details are given in Annexure II. (c) Afforestation in the country is taken up under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes such as Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), National Bamboo Mission (NBM), 13th Finance Commission and also under different State Plan/ Non- Plan Schemes including externally aided projects. National Afforestation Programme (NAP) of the Ministry of Environment & Forests is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme for afforestation and tree plantation and eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in the country. The Scheme is being implemented through a decentralized mechanism of State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) at State level,

Forest Development Agency (FDA) at Forest Division level and Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at Village levels. An amount of Rs.2500 crores has been approved for NAP in the 12th Five Year Plan. The details of amount released during last three years from 2010-11 to 2012-13 and current year under NAP are given in Annexure III. The Ministry provides financial assistance to the State Forest Departments under a Centrally Sponsored Scheme ‘Intensification of Forest Management’ to strengthen their forest protection machinery by way of infrastructure development, use of modern technology, improved mobility by way of deployment of new field vehicles improved communication and providing arms ammunition to the front-line forestry force. This infrastructural support provided to all State/UT Governments help them in creation of boundary pillars and demarcation of forest areas. The details of funds released to States including Karnataka under the Scheme during the last three years and current year is given in Annexure IV.

Annexure I Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred

Question No. 2342 due for answer on 13.02.2014 regarding ‘Funds for promotion of forests in the States’ Forest Cover in States/UTs in India (area in Hectare)

States/ U.T.s Geographical Area Total Forest Cover 2011

Percentage of Forest cover with geographical area

Andhra Pradesh 27506900 4638900 16.86 Arunachal Pradesh 8374300 6741000 80.50 Assam 7843800 2767300 35.28 Bihar 9416300 684500 7.27 Chhattisgarh 13519100 5567400 41.18 Delhi 148300 17600 11.87 Goa 370200 221900 59.94 Gujarat 19602200 1461900 7.46 Haryana 4421200 160800 3.64 Himachal Pradesh 5567300 1467900 26.37 Jammu & Kashmir 22223600 2253900 10.14 Jharkhand 7971400 2297700 28.82 Karnataka 19179100 3619400 18.87 Kerala 3886300 1730000 44.52 Madhya Pradesh 30824500 7770000 25.21 Maharashtra 30771300 5064600 16.46 Manipur 2232700 1709000 76.54 Meghalaya 2242900 1727500 77.02 Mizoram 2108100 1911700 90.68 Nagaland 1657900 1331800 80.33 Odhisa 15570700 4890300 31.41 Punjab 5036200 176400 3.50 Rajasthan 34223900 1608700 4.70 Sikkim 709600 335900 47.34 Tamilnadu 13005800 2362500 18.16 Tripura 1048600 797700 76.07 Uttar Pradesh 24092800 1433800 5.95 Uttarakhand 5348300 2449600 45.80 West Bengal 8875200 1299500 14.64 Andaman & Nicobar 824900 672400 81.51 Chandigarh 11400 1700 14.91 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 49100 21100 42.97 Daman & Diu 11200 600 5.36 Lakshadweep 3200 2700 84.37 Puducherry 48000 5000 10.42 328726300 69202700 21.05

Annexure II Annexure referred to in reply to part (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred

Question No. 2342 due for answer on 13.02.2014 regarding ‘Funds for promotion of forests in the States’

Statement of funds released for preparatory activities during 2011-12 under Green India Mission

S.N. State Funds released (Rs. in Lakhs)

1 Andhra Pradesh 89.53 2 Assam 130.00 3 Chhattisgarh 972.00 4 Gujarat 133.80 5 Haryana 357.00 6 Himachal Pradesh 126.507 Jammu & Kashmir 64.00 8 Jharkhand 147.00 9 Karnataka 267.45

10 Kerala 194.60 11 Madhya Pradesh 823.50 12 Maharashtra 405.77 13 Manipur 40.50 14 Nagaland 141.50 15 Odisha 107.50 16 Punjab 125.50 17 Rajasthan 275.25 18 Tamil Nadu 72.15 19 Tripura 350.50 20 Uttar Pradesh 119.5021 Uttarakhand 51.00

Total 4994.55

Annexure III

Annexure referred to in reply to part (c) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 2342 due for answer on 13.02.2014 regarding ‘Funds for promotion of forests in the States’

Details funds released to States under National Afforestation Programme during

2010-11 to 2013-14 (Rs. In crore)

S. No. States 2010-11 2011- 12 2012-13 2013-14 (as on 31.12.2013)

1 Andhra Pradesh 10.48 15.15 2.71 3.75 2 Bihar 5.48 6.92 3.40 12.84 3 Chhattisgarh 33.25 24.74 13.33 21.38 4 Goa 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 5 Gujarat 29.43 27.00 14.30 11.68 6 Haryana 24.20 12.28 6.41 17.94 7 Himachal Pradesh 3.45 3.50 3.62 2.61 8 Jammu & Kashmir 3.99 6.89 3.37 8.11 9 Jharkhand 8.73 10.42 4.69 9.02 10 Karnataka 8.12 12.92 6.81 9.26 11 Kerala 7.54 2.04 11.30 6.99 12 Madhya Pradesh 30.39 21.43 9.15 22.10 13 Maharashtra 16.17 28.51 28.87 32.33 14 Odhisa 11.20 7.30 3.38 5.36 15 Punjab 0 0.46 0.76 2.00 16 Rajasthan 4.94 6.23 4.14 2.81 17 Tamil Nadu 7.21 3.08 2.78 3.21

18 Uttar Pradesh 21.33 26.23 15.27 20.15 19 Uttarakhand 4.47 6.61 6.25 6.01 20 West Bengal 4.12 6.29 2.57 2.96

Total (Other States) 234.50 228.00 143.11 200.49 21 Arunachal Pradesh 5.52 0.00 1.66 0.00 22 Assam 6.08 7.95 1.47 2.99 23 Manipur 10.37 12.74 9.46 12.12 24 Meghalaya 8.79 4.31 9.10 4.50 25 Mizoram 12.21 13.44 8.78 11.94 26 Nagaland 10.11 11.69 10.88 9.82 27 Sikkim 11.99 11.18 5.42 3.77 28 Tripura 10.43 13.69 3.50 11.99

Total (NE States) 75.49 75.00 50.26 57.13 G. Total 309.99 303.00 193.37 257.62

Annexure IV

Annexure referred to in reply to part (c) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 2342 due for answer on 13.02.2014 regarding ‘Funds for promotion of forests in the States’

Details funds released to States/UTs under Intensification of Forest Management Scheme during 2010-11

to 2013-14 (Rs. In lakhs)

S. No. States 2010-11 2011- 12 2012-13 2013-14 (as on 10.02.2014)

1 Andhra Pradesh 136.94 0.00 0.00 38.21 2 Bihar 118.77 82.41 0.00 43.32 3 Chhattisgarh 368.33 430.41 398.03 253.25 4 Gujarat 429.83 348.23 243.10 345.76 5 Goa 25.00 10.97 7.51 61.17 6 Haryana 101.70 75.72 95.67 153.64 7 Himachal Pradesh 287.71 324.27 226.12 364.41 8 Jammu & Kashmir 0.00 0.00 209.86 105.24 9 Jharkhand 150.95 394.55 212.50 254.88

10 Karnataka 205.61 348.64 361.09 324.47 11 Kerala 257.16 144.64 150.68 254.76 12 Madhya Pradesh 379.69 697.65 886.87 744.16 13 Maharashtra 262.38 373.51 269.42 134.06 14 Odhisa 229.54 133.03 149.79 203.25 15 Punjab 76.49 0.00 0.00 - 16 Rajasthan 103.76 161.15 237.27 145.02 17 Tamil Nadu 143.99 245.48 141.00 - 18 Uttar Pradesh 213.72 140.00 131.38 138.29 19 Uttarakhand 134.57 229.95 342.62 299.33 20 West Bengal 173.12 50.86 71.09 -

Total (Other States) 3799.26 4191.47 4134.00 3863.22 NE & Sikkim

1 Assam 202.65 246.64 0.00 - 2 Arunachal Pradesh 325.67 261.15 0.00 - 3 Manipur 168.21 461.81 117.51 294.86 4 Meghalaya 121.64 161.26 144.64 244.83 5 Mizoram 349.79 253.17 292.00 284.74 6 Nagaland 183.51 346.97 0.00 145.92 7 Sikkim 259.33 288.41 35.28 166.5 8 Tripura 188.81 60.59 376.90 131.8

Total 1799.61 2080.00 966.33 1268.65 Union Territories

1 A&N Islands 26.22 30.36 5.49 13.04 2 Chandigarh 60.26 34.46 0.00 - 3 D&N Haveli - 0.00 0.00 - 4 Daman & Diu - 0.00 0.00 - 5 Lakshadweep - 0.00 0.00 - 6 New Delhi - 0.00 0.00 - 7 Puducherry - 0.00 0.00 -

Total 86.48 64.82 5.49 13.04 Grand Total 5685.35 6336.29 5105.82 5144.91

USE OF FOREST LAND BY GOVERNMENT OF UTTARAKHAND 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2343 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government of Uttarakhand had requested the Ministry regarding direct use of five hectare of forest land, if so, the permission has been accorded in this regard;

(b) the circumstances under which State Government had to seek permission for the direct use of the forest land;

(c) whether any forestation scheme has been submitted against that forest land for which the State had sought the permission; and

(d) if not, how will the affected forest land be compensated and details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) The Chief Minister, Uttarakhand requested the Central Government to accord General Approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of up to five hectares of forest land, in each case, for execution of various development activities, including construction of PMGSY roads, by Government Departments in Uttarakhand and other hilly States. Central Government, after examination of the matter observed that proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for use of forests land for non-forest purpose in Uttarakhand and other hilly States, especially in the biodiversity rich, ecologically fragile hill districts, which apart from being highly prone to soil erosion and landslides, are habitat for several endangered species of flora and fauna, need careful scrutiny by the Central Government to ensure long term ecological security of these States. It will therefore, be imprudent for the Central Government to relax norms for appraisal of proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for development activities including construction of PMGSY roads in Uttarakhand and other hilly States. The Central Government has therefore, not accepted the said proposal for grant of general approval. (c) & (d) In view of reply to parts (a) and (b) above, reply to parts (c) and (d) does not arise. SUPPLY OF POLLUTED WATER TO HOUSES 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2344 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether as per UN report, only 10 per cent of India's dirty water is treated; (b) whether India is able to treat only 10 per cent of its sewage and industrial discharge, while the rest is

discharged into water bodies, if so, what is the action plan to address this issue; and (c) whether it is also a fact that this polluted water enters our houses for our daily use, while the concerned

authorities in the country have failed to address the above issue, as per the above report, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c) As reported by the Central Pollution Control Board, it has made a survey nationwide through questionnaire sent to all the State Secretaries, Municipal Bodies, State Water Boards, Public Health Engineering Departments, Pollution Control Boards and other concerned agencies to obtain information / data on water supply, wastewater generation, collection, treatment and disposal in class-I cities, metropolitan cities and class-II towns. Based on this information, the estimated sewage generation from Class-I cities and Class-II towns together is 38,254 Million Litres per Day (MLD), out of which only 11,787 MLD is being treated, which is 31% of generation. Considering the widening gap between sewage generation and treatment capacity, the State Governments are required to prepare a very thoughtful action plan to fill this gap in a minimum time frame. As regard, the polluted water enters our houses for daily use, the concerned authorities like Ministry of Urban Development, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, State authorities are taking requisite actions like proper management of water supply pipeline network and sewerage system as per the manuals prepared for the purpose. UNIFORM POLICY FOR IMMERSION OF IDOLS IN RIVERS 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2345 DR. CHANDAN MITRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has chalked out a uniform policy with regard to immersion of idols in rivers and other water bodies during religious events, if so, the details thereof, if not, the reasons therefor; and

(b) the concrete steps taken by Government to promulgate a uniform, practical, pragmatic and well

accepted Standard Operating Procedure for immersion of idols across the country? THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has brought out specific guidelines on prevention and control of pollution in rivers and other water bodies from idol immersion. These guidelines prescribe that the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)/ Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) conduct water quality assessment of the water body before and after immersions, post the data on internet and help local administration in preparing material for mass awareness for the purpose. Further, the guidelines prescribe that idols be made from natural materials like traditional clay, water soluble and nontoxic natural dyes be used for painting of idols, worship material like flowers, clothes, decorating material (made of paper and plastic) be removed before immersion of idols, biodegradable materials collected separately for recycling or composting, non-biodegradable materials disposed off in sanitary landfills, immersion of idols in river be done at identified idol immersion spots along the river bank in temporary ponds having earthen bunds with removable synthetic liners at bottom, etc. The guidelines have been circulated to all States and Union Territories for implementation. PROTECTION OF ENVIRONMENT 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2346 SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the steps being taken by Government for protection of environment in the country; and

(b) the details of funds spent by Government in the name of protecting environment during the last three years and current year, State-wise, including Uttarakhand?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b): In conformity with the vision, mission and objectives of the Government for protection of environment, various schemes and projects supported by legislative, administrative and regulatory measures are being implemented including through the Ministry of Environment & Forests and its attached offices, autonomous organizations and other bodies as also State Departments of Environment and Forest and State Pollution Control Boards/ Pollution Control Committees. To improve upon the intermediate output and final outcomes from their utilization as well as supplementing of Plan funds, the Ministry has also undertaken a number of reform measures and policy initiatives which include public private partnership, alternate delivery mechanism, social and gender empowerment process.For discharging its functional responsibilities, the Ministry has created suitable institutional infrastructure at the national, regional, and State level in the form of six Regional Offices, National Biodiversity Authority, Central Zoo Authority, Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, National Tiger Conservation Authority, Animal Welfare Board of India, Central Pollution Control Board, and various environmental research institutions/ organizations, etc. The Ministry also provides funding to various States and Union Territories, including Uttarakhand, under various Central Sector Schemes and also Centrally Sponsored Schemes covered under Central Assistance to State Plans. The details of the Plan funds released to various States/ Union Territories, including Uttarakhand, under various schemes for protection of the environment during the last three years and the current year so farare furnished in Annex.

Annex referred to in the reply to Parts (a)& (b) of RajyaSabhaUnstarred Question No.2346 regarding “Protection of environment” by ShriBhagat Singh Koshyaridue for answer on 13.02.2014

State-Wise Releases under Centrally Sponsored Schemes for Protection of Environment.

(� crore) S. No. State / Scheme 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 *

1 Conservation &Management of Mangroves & Coral Reefs

6.68 7.01 4.97 4.66

Andaman & Nicobar Islands 0.10 0.10 0.00 0.00

Andhra Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Goa 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Gujarat 2.95 1.76 1.63 0.09

Karnataka 0.15 0.43 0.91 0.55

Kerala 0.37 0.00 0.62 0.80

Lakshadweep 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Odisha 0.30 0.54 0.00 0.33

Tamil Nadu 1.34 1.81 1.22 0.42

West Bengal 1.47 2.37 0.59 2.47

2 Conservation and Management of Wetlands# 12.04 14.79 12.19 6.58 Arunachal Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Assam 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Bihar 0.00 0.00 0.16 0.00

Gujarat 0.33 1.15 0.90 0.00

Haryana 0.71 0.71 0.67 0.22

Himachal Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Jammu & Kashmir 0.00 0.13 0.71 0.46

Jharkhand 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Karnataka 0.00 0.00 0.24 0.00

Kerala 0.54 0.22 0.00 0.00

Madhya Pradesh 0.00 0.11 0.60 0.00

S. No. State / Scheme 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 * Maharashtra 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Manipur 0.16 0.79 0.34 1.32

Mizoram 0.78 0.68 1.40 0.37

Odisha 0.00 1.68 1.02 0.79

Puducherry 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.24

Punjab 0.89 1.07 0.12 0.38

Rajasthan 1.20 0.74 0.52 0.17

Sikkim 0.50 0.48 0.31 0.00

Tamil Nadu 0.84 1.60 1.59 0.00

Tripura 0.25 0.00 0.00 0.00

Uttar Pradesh 1.86 2.34 2.21 1.39

Uttarakhand 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

West Bengal 2.75 2.18 1.06 0.92

Research & Development 1.15 0.87 0.29 0.32

Others 0.08 0.04 0.05 0.00

3 Biosphere Reserve Scheme 9.31 10.05 10.75 5.95


Andhra Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.20

Assam 1.05 0.40 0.00 0.00

Chhattisgarh 0.45 1.00 0.45 1.50

Gujarat 0.63 0.00 0.70 0.00

Karnataka 0.44 0.00 0.00 0.00

Kerala 1.23 1.27 0.69 1.60

Madhya Pradesh 0.50 1.18 0.00 0.00

Meghalaya 0.24 0.35 0.40 0.00

Odisha 0.43 0.65 0.00 0.00

Sikkim 0.30 1.07 0.25 1.00

Tamil Nadu 2.06 2.18 0.29 0.95

Uttarakhand 0.79 0.90 0.00 0.00

West Bengal 1.09 0.90 0.80 0.50

4 Biodiversity Conservation and Rural Livelihood Improvement

0.45 2.13 1.20 0.00

Gujarat 0.00 0.93 0.60 0.00

Jammu & Kashmir 0.17 0.00 0.00 0.00

Kerala 0.00 0.17 0.00 0.00

Mizoram 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00

Madhya Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Tamil Nadu 0.00 0.25 0.00 0.00

Uttarakhand 0.13 0.78 0.60 0.00

Others (WII) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

5 National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP)# 477.38 95.75 123.68 48.26

Andhra Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Jammu & Kashmir 0.00 0.00 0.00 29.86

Karnataka 0.96 0.00 0.00 0.00

S. No. State / Scheme 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 * Kerala 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Madhya Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Maharashtra 11.82 0.00 5.07 0.40

Nagaland 0.00 0.00 0.00 3.00

Odisha 0.00 5.00 0.00 0.00

Rajasthan 0.00 20.00 0.00 0.00

Tamil Nadu 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Tripura 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Uttar Pradesh 238.59 70.75 107.31 15.00

Uttarakhand 31.88 0.00 11.30 0.00

West Bengal 194.13 0.00 0.00 0.00

6 National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) including NGRBA#

656.94 187.46 268.60 323.96

Andhra Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Bihar 20.00 0.00 0.00 85.41

Delhi 83.29 34.88 0.00 0.00

Goa 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Gujarat 0.39 0.00 41.71 0.00

Haryana 4.00 0.00 38.20 10.00

Jharkhand 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Karnataka 0.95 0.00 0.00 0.00

Kerala 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Madhya Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Maharashtra 11.82 0.00 5.07 22.42

Nagaland 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Odisha 0.00 5.00 0.00 0.00

Punjab 45.75 47.53 45.36 98.04

Rajasthan 0.00 20.00 0.00 0.00

Sikkim 26.14 9.30 21.65 15.00

Tamil Nadu 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Uttar Pradesh 238.59 70.75 107.31 81.31

Uttarakhand 31.88 0.00 9.30 11.78

West Bengal 194.13 0.00 0.00 0.00

8 National Afforestation Programme 309.99 303.00 193.39 257.64 Andhra Pradesh 10.48 15.15 2.71 3.75

Arunachal Pradesh 5.52 0.00 1.66 0.00

Assam 6.08 7.95 1.47 2.99

Bihar 5.48 6.92 3.40 12.84

Chhattisgarh 33.25 24.74 13.33 21.38

Goa 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Gujarat 29.43 27.00 14.30 11.68

Haryana 24.20 12.28 6.41 17.94


Jammu & Kashmir 3.99 6.89 3.37 8.11

S. No. State / Scheme 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 * Jharkhand 8.73 10.42 4.69 9.02

Karnataka 8.12 12.92 6.81 9.26

Kerala 7.54 2.04 11.30 6.99

Madhya Pradesh 30.39 21.43 9.15 22.10

Maharashtra 16.17 28.51 28.87 32.33

Manipur 10.37 12.74 9.46 12.12

Meghalaya 8.79 4.31 9.10 4.50

Mizoram 12.21 13.44 8.78 11.94

Nagaland 10.11 11.69 10.88 9.82

Odisha 11.20 7.30 3.38 5.36

Punjab 0.00 0.46 0.76 2.00

Rajasthan 4.94 6.23 4.14 2.81

Sikkim 11.99 11.18 5.42 3.77

Tamil Nadu 7.21 3.08 2.78 3.21

Tripura 10.43 13.69 3.50 11.99

Uttar Pradesh 21.33 26.23 15.27 20.15

Uttarakhand 4.47 6.61 6.25 6.01

West Bengal 4.12 6.29 2.57 2.96

9 Green India Mission 0.00 49.95 0.00 0.00

Andhra Pradesh 0.00 0.90 0.00 0.00

Assam 0.00 1.30 0.00 0.00

Chhattisgarh 0.00 9.72 0.00 0.00

Gujarat 0.00 1.34 0.00 0.00

Haryana 0.00 3.57 0.00 0.00


Jammu & Kashmir 0.00 0.64 0.00 0.00

Jharkhand 0.00 1.47 0.00 0.00

Karnataka 0.00 2.67 0.00 0.00

Kerala 0.00 1.95 0.00 0.00

Madhya Pradesh 0.00 8.24 0.00 0.00

Maharashtra 0.00 4.06 0.00 0.00

Manipur 0.00 0.41 0.00 0.00

Nagaland 0.00 1.42 0.00 0.00

Odisha 0.00 1.08 0.00 0.00

Punjab 0.00 1.26 0.00 0.00

Rajasthan 0.00 2.75 0.00 0.00

Tamil Nadu 0.00 0.72 0.00 0.00

Tripura 0.00 3.51 0.00 0.00

Uttar Pradesh 0.00 1.20 0.00 0.00

Uttarakhand 0.00 0.51 0.00 0.00

10 Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats 74.24 68.62 74.88 65.93


Andhra Pradesh 0.64 0.71 1.80 0.00


S. No. State / Scheme 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 * Assam 1.86 2.34 1.46 1.39

Bihar 0.20 0.00 0.65 0.35

Chandigarh 0.12 0.19 0.00 0.00

Chhattisgarh 2.81 2.41 4.50 4.09

Dadra &Nagar Haveli 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Daman & Diu 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Delhi 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Goa 0.32 0.21 1.48 0.00

Gujarat 11.06 11.26 5.18 5.38

Haryana 0.15 0.28 0.52 0.00


Jammu & Kashmir 5.37 4.45 5.16 4.86

Jharkhand 0.63 0.64 0.82 0.98

Karnataka 4.12 3.35 4.35 3.51

Kerala 3.66 9.41 12.10 5.06

Madhya Pradesh 6.35 5.06 4.68 4.41

Maharashtra 3.43 3.22 4.26 4.44

Manipur 0.88 0.86 0.74 0.81

Meghalaya 0.58 0.43 0.22 0.26

Mizoram 7.07 1.53 0.96 1.88

Nagaland 0.33 0.30 0.26 0.15

Odisha 3.15 3.31 3.68 3.42

Punjab 0.25 0.00 0.00 0.00

Rajasthan 3.48 2.91 4.78 4.31

Sikkim 1.83 1.31 1.78 1.29

Tamil Nadu 3.34 2.56 2.58 2.59

Tripura 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00

Uttar Pradesh 2.96 2.04 3.19 3.23

Uttarakhand 1.34 2.01 2.20 3.26

West Bengal 2.76 2.46 1.64 1.67

11 Project Elephant 21.94 20.92 17.94 17.36

Andhra Pradesh 0.15 0.00 0.11 0.00


Assam 1.39 2.00 2.50 1.73

Chhattisgarh 0.75 1.50 0.60 0.50

Haryana 1.00 0.00 0.00 0.31

Jharkhand 0.80 1.06 0.59 0.66

Karnataka 3.00 2.61 2.40 3.25

Kerala 2.65 2.83 2.95 1.95

Maharashtra 0.29 0.20 0.20 0.19

Meghalaya 1.03 1.28 1.07 1.01

Nagaland 0.41 0.25 0.19 0.17

Odisha 1.13 2.15 2.10 2.06

Tamil Nadu 2.27 2.28 2.50 2.11

S. No. State / Scheme 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 * Tripura 0.00 0.06 0.06 0.10

Uttar Pradesh 0.80 0.49 0.14 0.00

Uttarakhand 2.07 1.42 1.61 1.51

West Bengal 4.10 2.24 0.92 0.98

12 Project Tiger 178.70 160.57 162.85 171.99

Andhra Pradesh 1.56 1.54 4.05 2.12


Assam 15.09 9.47 3.74 8.09

Bihar 1.58 1.72 3.11 2.85

Chhattisgarh 18.14 7.03 5.32 5.83

Goa 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02

Jharkhand 1.31 1.56 1.07 2.51

Karnataka 16.60 18.30 9.33 20.16

Kerala 3.23 4.29 5.15 4.85

Madhya Pradesh 39.62 53.52 57.72 48.16

Maharashtra 27.89 36.22 8.48 34.53

Mizoram 1.88 2.25 4.68 2.33

Odisha 8.15 5.55 1.64 7.87

Rajasthan 23.68 0.67 40.91 4.99

Tamil Nadu 5.21 6.05 4.46 7.63

Uttar Pradesh 4.07 4.46 3.34 5.26

Uttarakhand 3.40 3.99 1.61 3.73

West Bengal 5.02 1.58 4.04 3.49

13 Intensification of Forest Management Scheme 56.70 63.28 48.64 51.44 Andhra Pradesh 1.36 0.00 0.00 0.38



Assam 2.02 2.46 0.00 0.00

Bihar 1.18 0.82 0.00 0.43

Chandigarh 0.60 0.34 0.00 0.00

Chhattisgarh 3.68 4.30 3.98 2.53


Daman & Diu 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Goa 0.25 0.11 0.07 0.61

Gujarat 4.29 3.48 0.08 3.46

Haryana 1.01 0.75 0.96 1.54


Jammu & Kashmir 0.00 0.00 2.09 1.05

Jharkhand 1.50 3.94 2.12 2.55

Karnataka 2.05 3.48 3.61 3.24

Kerala 2.57 1.44 1.50 2.55

Lakshadweep 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Madhya Pradesh 3.79 6.98 8.86 7.44

Maharashtra 2.62 3.73 2.69 1.34

S. No. State / Scheme 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 * Manipur 1.68 4.61 1.17 2.95

Meghalaya 1.21 1.61 1.44 2.45

Mizoram 3.49 2.53 2.92 2.85

Nagaland 1.83 3.46 0.00 1.46

New Delhi 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Odisha 2.29 1.33 1.50 2.03

Puducherry 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Punjab 0.76 0.00 0.00 0.00

Rajasthan 1.03 1.61 2.37 1.45

Sikkim 2.59 2.88 0.35 1.66

Tamil Nadu 1.44 2.45 1.41 0.00

Tripura 1.88 0.61 3.77 1.32

Uttar Pradesh 2.13 1.40 1.31 1.39

Uttarakhand 1.34 2.30 3.42 2.99

West Bengal 1.73 0.51 0.71 0.00

14 National Green Corps Programme 26.62 26.87 25.17 26.62

Andhra Pradesh 1.57 1.57 1.57 1.57



Assam 1.44 1.41 1.49 1.44

Bihar 2.45 2.43 0.00 2.45

Chandigarh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Chhattisgarh 1.07 1.09 1.81 1.07


Daman & Diu 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Delhi (NCT) 0.48 0.49 0.50 0.48

Goa 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Gujarat 1.84 0.00 1.57 1.84

Haryana 0.00 1.43 0.00 0.00


Jammu & Kashmir 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Jharkhand 0.41 0.35 0.00 0.41

Karnataka 1.26 0.00 1.87 1.26

Kerala 0.95 0.96 0.96 0.95

Lakshadweep 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Madhya Pradesh 3.41 3.41 3.41 3.41

Maharashtra 2.37 2.37 2.35 2.37

Manipur 0.00 0.48 0.00 0.00

Meghalaya 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Mizoram 0.35 0.35 0.00 0.34

Nagaland 1.21 0.63 0.70 1.21

Odisha 2.05 2.02 2.04 2.05

Puducherry 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Punjab 1.37 1.37 1.50 1.37

S. No. State / Scheme 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 * Rajasthan 2.18 2.25 2.23 2.18

Sikkim 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Tamil Nadu 2.05 2.17 2.17 2.05

Tripura 0.17 0.21 0.24 0.17

Uttar Pradesh 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Uttarakhand 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

West Bengal 0.00 1.08 0.00 0.00

15 National Environment Awareness Campaign 11.25 12.12 12.09 9.96

Andhra Pradesh 0.67 0.69 0.76 0.76



Assam 0.37 0.33 0.37 0.39

Bihar 0.60 0.65 0.66 0.80

Chhattisgarh 0.08 0.12 0.12 0.18


Daman & Diu 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.00

Delhi (NCT) 0.16 0.12 0.12 0.13

Goa 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.00

Gujarat 0.45 0.52 0.65 0.76

Haryana 1.00 1.25 0.41 0.00


Jammu & Kashmir 0.84 0.92 0.98 0.00

Jharkhand 0.45 0.48 0.00 0.21

Karnataka 0.28 0.33 0.23 0.00

Kerala 0.22 0.26 0.28 0.30

Lakshadweep 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Madhya Pradesh 0.66 0.63 0.86 0.00

Maharashtra 0.53 0.57 0.63 0.85

Manipur 0.24 0.24 0.26 0.00

Meghalaya 0.01 0.01 0.00 0.00

Mizoram 0.21 0.23 0.25 0.27

Nagaland 0.13 0.16 0.16 0.17

Odisha 0.81 0.84 0.91 1.04

Puducherry 0.06 0.05 0.05 0.07

Punjab 0.35 0.35 0.56 0.00

Rajasthan 0.30 0.22 0.25 0.27

Sikkim 0.05 0.09 0.09 0.10

Tamil Nadu 0.62 0.58 0.62 0.59

Tripura 0.21 0.24 0.25 0.32

Uttar Pradesh 1.08 1.16 1.15 1.27

Uttarakhand 0.06 0.07 0.11 0.00

West Bengal 0.59 0.68 0.72 0.87

* As on 31.01.2014. # As on 31.12.2013.

ILLEGAL CUTTING OF TREES 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2347 SHRIMATI KUSUM RAI SHRI PRABHAT JHA SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of illegal felling of trees in the country, if so, the number of trees illegally cut during the last one year, State-wise;

(b) whether Government is also aware of large scale illegal felling of trees in Mangar forest, a part of Aravalis, if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the details of guilty persons against whom action has been taken for illegal felling of trees, State-wise during last one year?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) There are reports of sporadic unauthorized felling of trees in the country. However, details of illegal felling of trees are not maintained at the Central Government level as protection and management of Forests is primarily the responsibility of State /Union Territory Governments. (b) As per reports received from the Government of Haryana, no large scale illegal felling of trees has taken place in Mangar Forest, District Faridabad. A case of illegal felling of trees in Mangar Forest involving a total of 243 trees of various girth classes of Prosopis juliflora species has been reported. A First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged in the matter with the police. Further, Application No. 269 of 2013 Haryali Welfare Society v/s Union of India and Others has also been filed before the National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench, Delhi. (c) Details of guilty persons against whom action has been taken for illegal felling of trees is not maintained at the level of the Ministry. STEPS TAKEN TO KEEP ENVIRONMENT CLEAN 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2348 SHRI AVINASH RAI KHANNA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the steps that Government takes to keep the environment clean and safe, the details of the programmes of Government;

(b) whether it is a fact that the effluence, of the industry in Panmana village of Kollam district of Kerala, has spread cancer and skin diseases, if so, the steps that Government is taking to prevent this problem, the number of people who have been affected there; and

(c) how much compensation will be given to the affected people and the treatment of these people, the details thereof?

MINISTER FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY)

(a) In order to ensure environment clean and safe, the Government of India has formulated and implemented policies, programmes and several legislations such as Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 including rules and regulations made thereunder. The steps taken to prevent and control pollution in the country interalia include:

• Enforcement of emission and effluent standards notified under the aforementioned legislations; • Implementation of mutually agreed time targeted programme under Corporate Responsibility on

Environment Protection (CREP); • Inspection of 17 categories of highly polluting industries for compliance of environmental standards

under environment surveillance programme; • Setting up of common effluent treatment plants for cluster of Small Scale Industrial units; • Promotion of low-waste and no-waste technology; • Augmentation of flow in rivers for aquatic ecological preservation; • Implementation of water harvesting practices in various regions of the country; • Promotion of clean technologies in Pulp and Paper, Sugar & Distilleries etc. with emphasis on reuse

and recycle to reduce water consumption by these sectors. (b) & (c) As per the information provided by Kerala State Pollution Control Board, the Board has not conducted any such health study in the State on the effluence of any industry. PROPOSAL FOR DIVERSION OF ZUDPI JUNGLE 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2349 DR. BHARATKUMAR RAUT Will the Minister of ENVIRONEMNT AND FORESTS be please to state:

(a) the present status of the proposal for diversion of Zudpi jungle for developing World Class Multi-Model International Hub Airport near existing Nagpur airport which was submitted by Maharashtra State Government for the approval of the Ministry; and

(b) the reasons of delay in granting approval thereof, and by when the final approval will be granted by

Government to the above proposal? MINISTER OF ENVIRONEMNT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPAA MOILY) (a) & (b); “In principle” approval (Stage-I) was accorded on 12/03/2012 for diversion of 10.96 hectares and 9.17 hectares of Zudpi jungle for developing world class multi-model International Hub Airport in Nagpur District. The compliance of the conditions stipulated in Stage-I is awaited from the Government of Maharashtra. The final approval (Stage-II) depends upon receipt of the compliance of the conditions from the State Government. NATIONAL LEVEL REGULATOR 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2350 SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH SHRI PRABHAT JHA SHRIMATI KUSUM RAI


(a) whether Hon'ble Supreme Court in its recent verdict has directed Government to set up a National Regulator which would take comprehensive environment impact assessment of projects, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) the details of action taken by Central Government to set up a National Level Regulator to carry out independent, objective and transparent appraisal and approval of projects for environmental clearance in response to the verdict of Hon'ble Apex Court?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) Yes, Sir. The Supreme Court vide its order dated 6.1.2014 in IA Nos. 1868,2091,2225-27,2380,2568 and 2937 in Writ Petition (C) No. 202 of 1995 has inter-alia directed the Government of India to set up a Regulator for appraising projects, enforcing environmental conditions for approvals and to impose penalties on the polluters. The court has directed that the notification appointing the Regulator be filed along with affidavit in the court by 31.3.2014. The matter is under examination. DISAPPEARANCE OF WATER BODIES IN AND AROUND DELHI 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2351 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the water bodies in and around Delhi region are disappearing due to rise in pollution and other factors;

(b) whether several species of birds have been forced to flee to forests due to loss of habitat; (c) whether it is because the local people are dumping debris and plastic waste into such bodies that gives

a rise to pollution; and (d) the action plan of Government to address this serious issue?

THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) A few water bodies in and around Delhi region have reportedly been impacted due to rapid urbanization, various developmental activities, pollution problems and other anthropogenic pressures. (b) There are no reports received in this regard. (c) & (d) As per studies undertaken by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in the capital during 2001-02, water bodies in Delhi were facing environmental threats, also due to dumping of municipal and other wastes. Based on the findings, CPCB has made certain recommendations to the Government of NCT of Delhi for protection and development of these water bodies. These include regular de-silting, de-weeding, bank protection, development of green areas, diversion of sewage, reclamation for rain water harvesting and ground water recharge etc. To check dumping of debris and other wastes in the water bodies, regular field visits and monitoring are undertaken by Government of NCT of Delhi for corrective actions accordingly. PROTECTION OF FOREST OWLETS 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2352

DR. CHANDAN MITRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has allowed capture of critically endangered forest owlets (Heteroglaux Blewitti) around Melaghat Tiger Reserve of Maharashtra for a research project;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the reasons therefor; and (c) the corrective steps taken by Government for protection of forest owlets?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) The Central Government, Ministry of Environment and Forests, has granted permission in January 2013 to Wildlife Research and Conservation Society, Pune, under Section 12 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for capture of 20 Forest Owlet from outside Protected Areas of East and West Melghat Forest Division in the state of Maharashtra for the purpose of research, and subject to certain conditions. These birds are to be ringed with coloured bands around the legs and thereafter to be released for study of the ecological aspects. The permission was granted after duly considering the recommendation of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, Maharashtra. (c) The Forest Spotted Owlet has been included in the Schedule – I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 thereby granting it the highest degree of protection. Further, the important general steps taken by the Government for protection of endangered animals and birds including forest owlet in the country include:


ii. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 provides stringent punishment for offences under the Act. The Act also provides for forfeiture of any equipment, vehicle or weapon that is used for committing wildlife offence(s).

iii. Protected Areas, viz., National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves covering important wildlife habitats have been created all over the country under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to conserve wild birds, animals and their habitats.

iv. Financial and technical assistance is provided to the State/ Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats' for providing better protection to wildlife and improvement of its habitat.

v. Financial support is provided to the research institutions for undertaking studies which help better management and conservation of species.


vii. The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up to strengthen the intelligence gathering and enforcement of law for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.

viii. Strict vigil is maintained by the officials of State Departments of Forests and wildlife.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR NEW AIRPORTS 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2353 SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the criteria and norms for giving environmental clearance for building new airports in the country; and

(b) the details of the new airports which have been given environmental clearance by Government during the last three years and the current year, State-wise?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY ) (a) Airports are category ‘A’ projects under the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 which require prior Environmental Clearance (EC) from Central Government. As per the procedure prescribed under the EIA Notification, 2006, Project Proponents (PP) are required to obtain Terms of Reference (ToR) for carrying out EIA studies. . Based upon the draft EIA report, Public Hearing (PH) is conducted for the project through the concerned State Pollution Control Board. Thereafter, PP has to finalise the EIA report after addressing the issues raised during PH and submit for consideration for grant of EC. The finalisation of ToRs and appraisal of the project proposal are carried out by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC). Grant/rejection of EC is decided based upon the recommendations of EAC. (b) State-wise details of new airports granted EC during the last three years are enclosed as Annexure-I. So far, no clearance has been issued to any new airport project during the current year.

Annexure-I

List of new Airport projects granted Environmental Clearance from 2011 to January, 2014

State Sl. No. Project Details Date of Clearance

Maharashtra

1 Development of a green field Airport at Sindhudurg, Maharashtra by M/s. IRB Sindhudurg Airport Pvt. Ltd.

21.12.2011

Kerala

2 International Airport at Keezhallur & Pazhassi Panchayat, Thalassery, District Kannur, Kerala by M/s Kannur International Airport

19.07.2013

3 Proposed Airport at Mallappuzhasserry, Aranmula and Kidangannur villages, Kozhencherry Taluk, Patthanamthitta District, Kerala by M/s KGS Aranmula Airport Ltd.

18.11.2013

INCENTIVES TO FARMERS TO PLANT TREES 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2354 SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHYARI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government proposes to give incentives to farmers to plant trees in their fields, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) the steps taken by Government to give plants to farmers free of cost for the development of

plantation in the country? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) At present, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has not operationalised any scheme to provide incentives to farmers to plant trees in their fields. However, the National Mission for Green India is a new programme by the Ministry of Environment and Forests which aims to increase forest and tree cover on 5 million ha area and to improve quality of forest cover of another 5 million ha over 10 year period, out of which about 2.3 million ha. is proposed for Agro-Forestry under one of its Sub-Mission. It will support a programme of forestry on non-forest lands with the involvement of farmers. DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS OF VARIOUS STATES 13th February, 2014

RSQ 2355 SHRI PRABHAT JHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that more than 6 lakh acres of forest area have vanished due to development projects, if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and

(b) whether it is a fact that Government has not sanctioned several projects of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh Government during previous years in the name of environment, while at the same time several projects of Maharashtra and Haryana Government have been sanctioned by overlooking the rules, if so, the reasons therefor and if not, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) Since 25.10.1980, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has granted approval for diversion of 11,85,200 ha of forest land for non-forestry purposes in total 23,894 number of cases. State wise detail of number of cases and forest area diverted is given in Annexure- I. (b) The proposals seeking diversion of forest land are examined most carefully and only those proposals where diversion of forest land is bare minimum and unavoidable are accepted by the Central Government. To facilitate scrutiny of the proposals seeking prior approval of the Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 in an effective manner, an elaborate institutional mechanism, both at the Central as well as State/Union Territory Governments level has been set up. The proposals for diversion of forest land are processed in the Ministry of Environment and Forests and then considered by the Forest Advisory Committee constituted under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The Ministry takes a decision after considering the recommendations of the Committee. Category wise detail of proposals approved by the Central Government since 25.10.1980 till date in the States of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Maharashtra is given at Annexure-II. ANNEXURES REFERRED TO IN STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2355 BY SHRI PRABHAT JHA REGARDING ‘DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS OF VARIOUS STATES’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.02.2014.

Annexure I

S. No. Name of State / UT Number of proposals* Area (Ha.)

1. Andaman & Nicobar Island 105 2,807.61 2. Andhra Pradesh 654 53,642.36 3. Arunachal Pradesh 235 36,518.69 4. Assam 271 8,286.74 5. Bihar 210 6,908.49 6. Chandigarh 28 49.11 7. Chhattishgarh 507 1,04,967.418. Dadar & Nagar Haveli 229 300.92 9. Daman & Diu 1 3.95 10. Delhi 16 43.49 11. Goa 101 2,231.52 12. Gujarat 1,546 72,896.87 13. Haryana 2,596 6,505.95 14. Himachal Pradesh 1,664 15,175.24 15. Jammu & Kashmir 8 1,500.09 16. Jharkhand 394 30,150.84 17. Karnataka 779 45,287.59

18. Kerala 235 40,986.79 19. Lakshdeep 0 0.00 20. Madhya Pradesh 1,055 3,86,359.6521. Maharashtra 1,612 1,01,110.36 22. Manipur 33 3,150.34 23. Meghalaya 102 794.45 24. Mizoram 32 26,196.40 25. Nagaland 0 0.00 26. Orissa 558 58,526.03 27. Puducherry 1 0.96 28. Punjab 3,449 64,376.7529. Rajasthan 685 31,548.19 30. Sikkim 340 3,140.53 31. Tamil Nadu 469 2,725.85 32. Tripura 289 7,806.5633. Uttar Pradesh 1,033 21,390.62 34. Uttarakhand 4,536 45,434.55 35. West Bengal 121 4,375.49

TOTAL 23,894 11,85,200.39

*(number includes proposals which have been accorded Stage-I and Stage-II approval)

ANNEXURES REFERRED TO IN STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2355 BY SHRI PRABHAT JHA REGARDING ‘DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS OF VARIOUS STATES’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.02.2014.

Annexure-II

S. No Category

Gujarat Haryana Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra

Number of Cases Area (ha) Number

of Cases Area (ha) Number of Cases Area (ha) Number of

Cases Area (ha)

1 Defence 1 75.97 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.00 2 Drinking Water 0 0.00 11 1.81 1 2.00 2 494.16 3 Forest Village Conversion 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 1 0.00 4 Hydel 0 0.00 4 1.00 0 0.00 0.00 5 Irrigation 15 1152.68 4 0.54 39 2211.36 85 4607.846 Mining 3 264.13 1 0.15 47 4633.33 11 268.58 7 Railway 3 0.67 11 164.41 5 174.14 3 5.80 8 Rehabilitation 0 0.00 0 0.00 2 302.00 1 85.009 Road 202 2835.09 194 1886.80 54 630.35 28 291.51 10 School 0 0.00 2 0.02 0 0.00 0.00 11 Thermal 2 226.50 2 0.06 4 628.53 1 0.00 12 Transmission Line 31 245.06 80 113.92 34 1409.94 29 706.07 13 OTHERS 156 2255.07 879 155.96 40 794.93 74 703.10 14 Wind Power 4 193.67 0 0.00 2 171.30 11 832.57

TOTAL 417 7248.85 1188 2324.67 228 10957.87 246 7994.62

CONFLICT BETWEEN ENDANGERED ANIMAL AND PEOPLE 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2356 DR. K.P. RAMALINGAM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the two States that have celebrated formidably successful tiger conservation programme i.e. Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have, for over several months, turned into the sites of unprecedented conflict between the endangered animal and people, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether it is a fact that many people have been killed by tigers recently in both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka; and

(c) whether it is also a fact that according to experts scientific response is needed to deal with man eaters, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) The details of recent human casualties (2013-14), as reported by States are at Annexure-I. (c) The National Tiger Conservation Authority, in consultation with experts / scientists / professionals has already evolved a Standard Operating Procedure in this regard, for preventive and control measures, which has been communicated to States.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2356 ON CONFLICT BETWEEN ENDANGERED ANIMAL AND PEOPLE DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.02.2014.

Details of recent human casualties (2013-14), as reported by States Sl. No.

Name of State Name of Tiger Reserve / Protected Area

No. of Casualties

1. Karnataka Bandipur 04 Nagarahole 01

2. Tamil Nadu Nilgiris 03 TOTAL 08

REVIEW OF REGIONAL PLAN 2021 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2357 DR. K.P. RAMALINGAM Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that many environmentalists wanted to review the Regional Plan 2021 concerning many regions of the country, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether Government has asked the State Governments to come out with their suggestions in this regard; and

(c) if so, the response received by Government from the State Governments?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c) The information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House. STEPS TAKEN TO ARREST AND PRESERVE BIO-DIVERSITY 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2358 DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE SHRI N.K. SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the forests are undergoing a phenomenal shift endangering bio-diversity and causing regional climate changes/dynamics in the country, if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether any study has been conducted in this regard, if so, the details thereof; and (c) the steps taken by Government to arrest and preserve bio-diversity in the country?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) A study by Indian Network on Climate Change Assessment (INCCA) titled “Climate Change and India: A 4x4 Assessment- Regional and Sectoral Analysis for 2030s”, was published in the year 2010. The report provides an assessment of impact of climate change in 2030s on four key sectors of the Indian economy, namely Agriculture, Water, Natural Ecosystems & Biodiversity and Health in four climate sensitive regions of India, namely the Himalayan region, the Western Ghats, the Coastal Area and the North-East Region. Further the report indicates the impact of climate change on forests including shifts in forest type boundary, change in net primary productivity and biomass and carbon accumulation rates. However, there is no specific study indicating that phenomenal shifts in forests is endangering biodiversity and causing regional climate change/dynamics in the country. (c) Some important steps taken by the Government for conservation of biological diversity inter-alia include: survey and inventorisation of floral and faunal resources; assessment of forest cover to develop an accurate database for planning and monitoring; establishment of a Protected Area network of National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Conservation and Community Reserves; designating Biosphere Reserves for conservation of representative ecosystems; species oriented programmes, such as Project Tiger and Project Elephant, complemented with ex-situ conservation efforts. In addition, Biological Diversity Act 2002 and Rules thereunder aim to conserve biological resources of the country and regulation of access to these resources to ensure equitable sharing of benefits arising out of their use. A National Biodiversity Authority and State Biodiversity Boards have been set up for implementing the provisions of the Act. NOISE LEVEL ABOVE THE LIMITS IN METRO CITY 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2359 SHRI D.P. TRIPATHI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that noise levels in almost every metro city is always above the prescribed limits, if

so, the details thereof; and (b) the steps that Government is taking to curb the noise pollution?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a). Ambient noise levels are monitored under the National Ambient Noise Monitoring Programme (NANMP) in seven metro cities, namely Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Lucknow on 24x7 basis at 35 locations (five stations in each city) since March, 2011 by respective State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).The network to monitor ambient noise levels is coordinated by CPCB at national level. Noise levels are above the prescribed norms at a majority of locations whereas these are within norms at some locations like: one station (East Arjun Nagar) in Delhi, two stations (Peenia and Marathali) in Banglore, two stations (Gole Park and Head Office of West Bengal Pollution Control Board) in Kolkata, etc. (b). Apart from establishing National Ambient Noise Monitoring Network, noise standards have been notified and are implemented at manufacturing stagefor gensets, sound making fire crackers, automobiles and certain construction machines/equipments. NEW TIGER ZONES 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2360 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government received any report on increasing tiger population in any part of the country, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) whether Government is planning to announce new tiger zones in the country, if so, the details thereof? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) Yes Sir. The country level tiger population, assessed once in every four years using the refined methodology, has shown an increasing trend with a population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively, in the recent assessment of 2010, as compared to the last country level assessment of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. The details of tiger estimation for the years 2006 and 2010 are at Annexure-I. (b) With due recommendation of the National Tiger Conservation Authority, four new tiger reserves have been notified by States during the XII Plan period viz., Kawal (Andhra Pradesh), Sathyamangalam (Tamil Nadu), Mukandra Hills (Rajasthan) and Nawegaon-Nagzira (Maharashtra). Final approval has been accorded to Kudremukh (Karnataka) and Rajaji (Uttarakhand) for declaring as a tiger reserve. Further, in-principle approval has been accorded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority for creation of three new tiger reserves, and the sites are: Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh), Ratapani (Madhya Pradesh) and Sunabeda (Odisha). The State Governments have been advised to send proposals for declaring the following areas as tiger reserves: (i) Bor (Maharashtra), (ii) Suhelwa (Uttar Pradesh), (iii) Guru Ghasidas National Park (Chhattisgarh), (iv) Mhadei Sanctuary (Goa) and (v) Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel / Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries / Varushanadu Valley (Tamil Nadu).

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2360 ON NEW TIGER ZONES DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.02.2014.

Details of tiger estimation for the years 2006 and 2010



Estimate (Number)



Estimate (Number)





297 259 335 353

320 388 Stable

Central Indian Landscape Complex and Eastern Ghats Landscape Complex Andhra Pradesh 95 84 107 72 65 79 Decrease Chhattisgarh 26 23 28 26 24 27 Stable Madhya Pradesh 300 236 364 257 213 301 Stable Maharashtra 103 76 131 169 155 183 Increase Odisha 45 37 53 32 20 44 Stable Rajasthan 32 30 35 36 35 37 Stable Jharkhand Not

assessed 10 6 14 Could not

be compared since it was not assessed in 2006.


601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable


Karnataka 290 241 339 300 280 320 Stable Kerala 46 39 53 71 67 75 Increase Tamil Nadu 76 56 95 163 153 173 Increase Western Ghats landscape

402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase

North Eastern Hills and Brahmaputra Flood Plains Assam 70 60 80 143 113 173 Increase Arunachal Pradesh

14

12 18 Not assessed

Not assessed

Not assessed Could not be compared since it was not assessed in 2010.


10 8 12 Not assessed

Not assessed

Not assessed Could not be compared since it

was not assessed in 2010.


100

84 118 148

118 178 Increase

Sundarbans Not assessed

Not assessed

Not assessed 70


TOTAL 1411 1165 1657 1706 1520 1909 *** Statistical lower / upper limits could not be ascertained owing to small size of the population. USING OF INFECTED WATER 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2361 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state: .

(a) whether the river water including the Rivers Ganga, Yamuna in North India and Rivers Mahanadi and Brahmani has got polluted and 50 per cent of the total population of our country is using this infected water every day; and

(b) the strategy taken by Government to purify the water of these polluted rivers?

THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) The pollution load on rivers of the country, including Ganga, Yamuna, Mahanadi and Brahmani, which are used for bathing, irrigation, drinking water purposes, etc., has increased over the years due to rapid urbanization, industrialization and untreated wastewater being discharged into rivers on account of inadequate treatment facilities. (b) Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in abatement of pollution in identified polluted stretches of various rivers under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) and NGRBA (National Ganga River Basin Authority) programme, for implementation of projects on a cost sharing basis between the Central and State Governments. NRCP and NGRBA programme presently cover 42 rivers in 195 towns spread over 20 States at a sanctioned cost of Rs. 9852.51 crore. Various pollution abatement schemes taken up under these programmes, inter-alia, include interception and diversion of raw sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, creation of low cost sanitation facilities, setting up of electric/improved wood crematoria and river front development. Till date, sewage treatment capacity of 4842 million litres per day has been created under these programmes. In addition, State Governments, apart from their own budgetary allocations, are also accessing financial assistance for creation of sewerage infrastructure, including setting up of sewage treatment plants, in various towns under other Central sector schemes like JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal

Mission) and UIDSSMT (Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) of Ministry of Urban Development. To control industrial effluents into the water bodies, Central Pollution Control Board and respective State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees monitor industries with respect to effluents discharge standards and take action for non-compliance under the statutory provisions. FOREST LAND AREA UNDER HUMAN HABITATION IN THE STATE OF WEST BENGAL 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2362 SHRI VIVEK GUPTA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of forest area declared as National Park, Sanctuary and Forest Reserve in West Bengal; (b) the number of people living in the buffer zones of protected forest area in West Bengal; and (c) the schemes for rehabilitation of these people and funding for the scheme?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) As per the information provided by the State Government of West Bengal to the Ministry, an extent of 3491.6786 sqkm of forest areas have been declared as 6 National Parks and 14 Wildlife Sanctuaries. A list of these Protected Areas is attached at Annexure. There are no provisions for declaration of Forest Reserves. (b) There is no demarcation of a buffer zone in Protected Areas except Tiger Reserves. The details of people living in the buffer zones of the tiger reserves of West Bengal are not compiled in the Ministry. (c) Subject to the availability of budgetary allocation under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ and ‘Project Tiger’, funding support is provided to States for relocation of willing families outside the Protected Areas. However, no scheme has been formulated for relocation of people living in the buffer zones of the tiger reserves of West Bengal.

ANNEXURE ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 2362 REGARDING ‘FOREST LAND AREA UNDER HUMAN HABITATION IN THE STATE OF WEST BENGAL’ BY SHRI VIVEK GUPTA DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.2.2014. List of Protected Areas in West Bengal: National Parks

1. Buxa National Park (Tiger Reserve) 2. Gorumara National Park 3. Neora Valley National park 4. Singalila National Park 5. Sunderban National Park (Tiger Reserve) 6. Jaldapara National Park

Wildlife Sanctuaries 1. Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary

2. Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary 3. Bibhutibhusan Wildlife Sanctuary 4. Buxa Wildlife Sanctuary 5. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary 6. Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary 7. Haliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary 8. Jorepokhri Salamander Wildlife Sanctuary 9. Lothian Island Wildlife sanctuary 10. Mahananda Wildlife sanctuary 11. Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary 12. Ramnabagan Wildlife Sanctuary 13. Sajnakhali Wildlife Sanctuary 14. Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary

WATER BODIES IN INDIA 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2363 SHRI S. THANGAVELU Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that water bodies in the country are highly polluted, which puts at risk the health and livelihood of millions of people and also the health of animals, flora and fauna, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) whether it is also a fact that Government has asked all the State Governments to implement the existing pollution control norms strictly, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has established a network of 2500 water quality monitoring stations on rivers, lakes, tanks, ponds, creeks/seawater, canals, drains, wells and water treatment plants. The water quality monitoring data indicate that the rivers are polluted downstream of major urban and industrial centres due to large scale water abstraction and discharge of untreated/partially treated/treated wastewater not meeting the water quality criteria. The pollution in rivers is increasing due to rapid increase in population and resultant wastewater generation and lean flow in rivers further aggravates the problem. The development of wastewater treatment facility is also not commensurate with the increasing wastewater generation in urban centres. On the basis of long term data collected, CPCB has indentified 150 polluted river stretches on 121 rivers. The State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) have been asked to prepare and implement action plans to restore the ambient water quality in the water bodies. FAILURE OF BIO-DIVERSITY AUTHORITY 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2364 SHRI N.K. SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the National Bio-diversity Authority has failed to draw up a list of endangered

medicinal plants; if not, the number of such plants and the steps taken by Government to protect such species;

(b) the number of local bodies under which Bio-diversity Management Committees have been set up the time by when such Bio-diversity Committees are likely to be set up under all local bodies; and

(c) the functions of such Bio-diversity Management Committees? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) Section 38 of the Biological Diversity Act empowers the Central Government in consultation with the concerned State Government to notify from time to time any species which are on the verge of extinction or likely to become extinct in the near future as threatened species, and prohibit or regulate their collection, and also to take appropriate steps to rehabilitate and preserve those species. Accordingly, a State-wise list of such species, which includes medicinal plants, was got prepared and sent to the State Governments. Following responses received, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has issued notifications for 15 States and 1 Union Territory so far. The Government has taken several steps to protect biodiversity, including medicinal plants. The Foundation for Revitalization of Local Health Traditions (FRLHT), which is a Centre of Excellence in Medicinal Plant & Traditional Knowledge of the Ministry of Environment and Forests has prepared a list of 335 Red Listed Medicinal Plant species. (b) & (c) As per Section 41 of the Biological Diversity Act, every local body is required to constitute a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC). So far, 33,348 BMCs have been constituted in 24 States. All States have been requested to establish BMCs at the local level. As per Biological Diversity Rule 22, the main function of BMCs is to prepare People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) in consultation with local people. The Register shall contain comprehensive information on availability and knowledge of local biological resources, their medicinal or any other use and traditional knowledge associated with them. The other function of BMC are to advise on any matter referred to it by the State Biodiversity Board or National Biodiversity Authority for granting approval, to maintain data about the local vaids and practitioners using the biological resources. As per Section 41 of the Biological Diversity Act, the BMC may levy charges by way of collection fees from any person for accessing or collecting any biological resource for commercial purposes for areas falling within its territorial jurisdiction. ENVIRONMENTAL REFORMS REGARDING EMISSION CUT 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2365 SHRI N.K.SINGH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether any norms have been laid down for environmental reforms regarding emission cut in the country; if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;

(b) whether Government has received reports of violation of such norms; and (c) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by Government to strengthen the environmental norms?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M.VEERAPPA MOILY)

(a) to (c): India being a Non-Annex I country party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) does not have any legally binding commitment or target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, norms for greenhouse gas emission cut have not been laid down in India. India has voluntarily pledged in the UNFCCC that it will endeavour to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 20-25% by 2020 in comparison to 2005 level. We are taking several domestic initiatives to address climate change and to chart out a low carbon growth strategy for inclusive growth. The National Action Plan on Climate Change has eight National Missions including inter alia the National Solar Mission, National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency and National Mission on Sustainable Habitat which envisage containing the greenhouse gas emissions in the country. FORESTS DAMAGED IN UTTARAKHAND 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2366 SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Ministry has made any assessment of forests damaged in Uttarakhand State from devastating floods on 16th and 17th June, 2013;

(b) if so, the percentage of forests damaged therein and district-wise details thereof; (c) whether the Ministry has disbursed any funds to implement a scheme to compensate damage caused to

forests in the State; and (d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) As per the report received from the Uttarakhand Forest Department, details of forests damaged in different forest divisions in the devastating floods on 16th & 17th June, 2013 are given in Annexure-I. (c) & (d) No funds have been disbursed to implement a scheme to compensate damage caused to forests in the State. However, the details of funds released to the State of Uttarakhand under various schemes of the Ministry in the year 2013-14 are as follows:

(Rs. In Lakhs) S. No. Scheme Funds disbursed in the year 2013-14 1. Intensification of Forest Management

Scheme 299.33

2. National Afforestation Programme 601.00 3. 13th Finance Commission 3852.00 4. Compensatory Afforestation

Management and Planning Authority 6150.00

5. Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat

326.28

ANNEXURE-I

ANNEXURE REFFERED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2366 REGARDING FORESTS DAMAGED IN UTTARAKHAND DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.02.2014 ASKED BY SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA

S.No

Division

Area (in ha.)

1 Gangotri National Park 57.85 2 Govind Wildlife Sanctuary 60.87 3 Uttarkashi Forest Division 185.24 4 Yamuna Barkot Forest Division 19.46 5 Chakrata Forest Division 8.04 6 Tehri Forest Division 35.3 7 Kedarnath Wildlife Division 75.44 8 Rudraprayag Forest Division 11.59 9 Narendranagar Forest Division 14.38

10 Garhwal Forest Division 19.58 11 Lansdowne Forest Division 3.73

Total 491.48 TERI REPORT ON POLLUTION 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2367 SHRI PARVEZ HASHMI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that as per the report issued by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) lakhs of people die every year owning to polluted air and water too in our country, if so, the details of the said report;

(b) whether Government is going to implement any new plan to check air and water pollution; and (c) the details of the outcome of the schemes being run in this regard?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a). The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) has published a report titled ‘TERI Environment Survey 2013’ for Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Kolkata. The report is based on public survey, newspaper reports, etc. The opinion of public based on individual perception is indicative rather than conclusive. The quality of ambient air, surface water and groundwater in above mentioned cities is regularly monitored by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in association with concerned State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs). The report emphasizes on general perception of public. (b.) & (c). The CPCB and SPCBs have taken various steps to contain air and water pollution which, inter-alia, include strict implementation of emission and effluent norms in polluting industries, review of emission and effluent standards, supply of improved diesel and gasoline, promotion of mass rapid transport, sale of new vehicles compliant to Bharat Stage III/IV emission norms with effect from 1st April 2010, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate system for on-road vehicles, implementation of city- specific ambient air improvement programme for 17 identified cities, monitoring of area specific action plan for 43 critically polluted areas, monitoring of common effluent treatment plants to treat effluent from SSI units, implementation of river specific action plans, monitoring of treated sewage quality arising from sewage treatment plants, etc.

POLLUTION IN RURAL GREEN AREA BY MOBILE TOWER 13th February, 2014 RSQ 2368 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Mobile Tower fixed by the Multinational Companies are consuming 30 per cent subsidized diesel and responsible for pollution in rural green area; and

(b) whether the Department has framed any rules and criteria for setting of tower for Mobile connection, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) As per Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recommendation on ‘Approach towards Green Telecommunications’ dated 12th April 2011, the average fuel consumption of diesel is 8760 liters per tower every year, assuming 8 hours of operation of a diesel genset installed as a source of backup power with every mobile tower. There are approximately 5.85 lakhs mobile towers in the country. However, as informed by Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India the actual data for consumption of diesel for diesel gensets installed with mobile towers is not available. (b) The DoT has not framed any rules and criteria for setting of tower for mobile connection. However, DoT has reportedly issued advisory guidelines to State Governments for issuance of clearance for installation of mobile towers in respective States. IMPOSING ESSENCE OF KASTURIRANGAN REPORT 20th February, 2014 RSQ *390 SHRI C.P. NARAYANAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has realised that it is negating the right to live and earn livelihood to numerous Adivasis and other people belonging to Western Ghats while imposing essence of Kasturirangan Report on these people and granting environment clearance to Posco Steel Project in Odisha;

(b) whether by these decisions, Government is denying rights granted to Adivasis under the Forest Dwellers’ Act;

(c) whether Government has any plan to rehabilitate those people who would be evicted from their places and to ensure them alternative livelihood; and

(d) whether there is any reasons, scientific or administrative in giving Posco project environmental clearance now?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House. Statement in reply to Parts (a) to (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 390 for reply on 20.2.2014 regarding Imposing Essence of Kasturirangan Report raised by Shri C.P. Narayanan.

(a) The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) has not negated the right to life and that of earning livelihood of local people and tribals either while accepting “in principle” the report of High Level Working Group (HLWG) on Western Ghats or while according Environment Clearance to M/s. POSCO India Private Limited for setting up of an Integrated Iron and Steel Plant of 4 MTPA capacity with a Captive Power Plant (4x100MW) at Kujang, near Paradip, Jagatsinghpur in Odisha. MoEF has accepted the HLWG report “in principle” subject to certain stipulations as explained in the Office Memorandum (OM) dated 20th December 2013 of the Ministry. The HLWG recommendations do not put any fresh restrictions on land use and agriculture in the Ecologically Sensitive Area as identified by HLWG. They also do not in any way impact the continued occupation of land in possession of the local people. In the case of M/s. POSCO India Private Limited, the Environment Clearance was accorded to them by MoEF on 19.7.2007. The Environment Clearance was subsequently extended up to 18.07.2017 on 7th January 2014 subject to environmental safeguards such as land optimisation, water storage including rainwater harvesting particularly during lean period, water usage including recyling and treatment and earmarking of 5% of the total cost of the project towards ‘Enterprise Social Commitment’ based on local needs. (b) The recommendations of HLWG inter alia state that the provision for prior informed consent under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 will be strictly enforced. As regards the project of M/s POSCO India Private Limited, MoEF received representations regarding Palli Sabha Resolution from POSCO Parthirodha Sangram Samiti on the transfer of forest land vis-à-vis the forest rights of the tribal and forest dwellers under the Forest Rights Act, 2006. Based on the comments of the State Government of Odisha on the said Palli Sabha Resolution and the provisions of the Orissa Gram Panchayat Act, 1964, the Forest Rights Act, 2006 and the Forest Rights Rules, 2007, MoEF accorded final approval on 04.05.2011 under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land subject to compliance of various conditions. (c) As per the Environment Clearance accorded to M/s. POSCO India Private Limited for setting up of an Integrated Iron and Steel Plant in Odisha, the Rehabilitation and Resettlement Plan shall be implemented as per the policy of the State Government of Orissa in a time bound manner. Also, the “in principle” acceptance of HLWG report does not in any way affect the continued occupation of land in possession of the local people in the Western Ghats. (d) The Environment Clearance accorded to M/s. POSCO India Private Limited on 19.7.2007 and its subsequent extension on 7.1.2014 has been given as per the procedure outlined under the EIA Notification, 2006, as amended, and after taking into account the reports of Expert Committees. DEGRADATION AND LOSS OF FOREST COVER 20th February, 2014 RSQ *399 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether degradation and loss of forest cover and water and air pollution are the major causes of deficit of rain water causing drought, cyclone and natural calamities in coastal areas like Odisha, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat; and

(b) whether any detailed study and research has been done on the subject, if so, the details thereof and action taken in this regard?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M VEERAPPA MOILY)

(a) & (b) A statement is laid on the Table of the House. STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *399 BY SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA REGARDING “DEGRADATION AND LOSS OF FOREST COVER” DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.02.2014 (a) & (b) There are no reports establishing that degradation and loss of forest cover and water and air pollution are the major causes of deficit rain causing drought, cyclone and natural calamities in coastal areas like Odisha, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. However, forests and trees in general aid in water conservation and recharge of aquifers thereby improving water availability. PROCESS FOR DISPOSING THE MEDICAL WASTE 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2807 DR. VIJAYLAXMI SADHO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the quantum of medical waste generated in the country; (b) the process adopted for disposing the medical wastes being generated by the hospitals related to the

medical colleges of the Government, non-Government sector, private hospitals, small and big hospitals and clinics;

(c) whether there are such wastes which cannot be destroyed in any way; and (d) the plan of Government to destroy such wastes and the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (d): As per the information provided by State Pollution Control Boards, Pollution Control Committees of Union Territories, Directorate General of Armed Forces Medical Services and the Central Pollution Control Board, about 416 tons of bio-medical waste is generated per day in the country. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified the Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998, which have been further amended. As per these Rules, occupier of an institution generating bio-medical waste should ensure that such waste is handled without any adverse effect on human health and environment. The Rules, inter-alia, provide for categorisation, segregation, packaging, labeling, treatment and disposal options for all categories of bio-medical waste. The occupier is required to segregate medical waste according to the colour codes detailed under these Rules and ensure its treatment and disposal in compliance with standards as prescribed under these Rules. ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE TO GUNDIA HYDRO ELECTRICAL PROJECT 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2808 DR. VIJAY MALLYA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENTAND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that environment clearance to the Gundia Hydro Electrical Project is held up in the Ministry as no decision is taken on such projects pending decision on the recommendations of the Kasturirangan Committee and when the decision in the matter is expected to be taken; and

(b) whether the Ministry would expedite approval from environment angle to this project in Karnataka? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) The Ministry had constituted a High Level Working Group (HLWG) under the chairmanship of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, Member, Planning Commission for taking a view on the way forward to implement the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel Report. The HLWG has submitted its report, which has been accepted by the Ministry. The HLWG has not proposed a complete ban on the construction of hydropower projects in the ecologically sensitive areas. It has recommended balancing the needs of energy with environment, which must be adhered to for implementing developmental projects in such areas. As the proposed Gundia hydropower project is located in an ecologically sensitive area, its environmental clearance needs to be considered within the parameters & recommendations of the HLWG Report. The Karnataka Power Corporation Limited have, therefore, been requested by the Ministry to conduct necessary study and submit a report taking into account the recommendations of the HLWG Report. BIG CHALLENGE OF WASTE DISPOSAL 20th February,2014 RSQ 2809 SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether urban areas are posing big challenge of waste disposal in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise and the reasons therefor; (c) the steps being taken to avoid such situation in future; and (d) the details of views of each State, NGOs, public and industry in this regard?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (d): Urban waste management is a State subject. State Governments/Urban Local Bodies are required to plan, design, execute and operate waste management projects in the urban areas of the country. The urban areas are facing challenges of waste disposal, inter-alia, on account of rapid urbanization, increasing population, lack of public awareness, financial constraints and inadequate capacities of Urban Local Bodies. The Central Government has notified the Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000. The norms for collection, segregation, storage, transportation, processing and disposal of municipal solid wastes have been specified under these Rules. As per these Rules, every municipal authority, within its territorial area, is responsible for implementation of the provisions of these rules, and also for development of infrastructure for collection, storage, segregation, transportation, processing and disposal of municipal solid wastes. To support efforts of State Governments, Government of India has launched the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) with a view to provide financial assistance to the State Governments for creating infrastructure for municipal solid waste management. The Union Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD) has formulated the National Urban Sanitation Policy, which requires each State to formulate its own State Sanitation Strategies (SSS) and cities to make individual City Sanitation Plan (CSP) and implement them to meet the goals set under the policy. MoUD has also published a manual on Municipal Solid Waste Management to assist Urban Local Bodies in management of municipal solid waste in a hygienic and scientific manner.

WASTE-TO-ENERGY PLANTS 20th February,2014 RSQ 2810 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the waste-to-energy plants in Delhi and its NCR areas have been found polluting the air, as per study, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) whether Government agencies have given certain suggestions to control such pollution at these plants, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (b): As per the order dated 28.05.2013 of National Green Tribunal (NGT) on the Application No.22 of 2013, a Committee, comprising of Member Secretary of the Central Pollution Control Board, Member Secretary of Delhi Pollution Control Committee, a representative of Ministry of Environment and Forests and the Project Proponent, has been constituted to monitor emissions from the waste-to-energy plant at Okhla, New Delhi, which is set up for disposal of municipal solid waste. As per the report submitted to the NGT by this Committee, levels of particulate matter, dioxins and furans have exceeded the permissible limits in the stacks. The Committee has submitted its recommendations to NGT for improvement of functioning of the plant. POLLUTION LINKED TO FOG COVER 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2811 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether pollution is linked to fog cover in capital Delhi, whether it is a fact that P.M.I.O., PM 2.5 and Black Carbon have increased abnormally in Delhi and mostly MP 205 emissions are from the transport sector which was highest and growing followed by burning of biomassand construction work and infrastructure project; and

(b) if so, the strategy of Government to check the pollution in the National Capital of Delhi? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) Ambient air quality in capital Delhi is monitored by the Central Pollution Control Board, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, the National Environment Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur and Indian Institute of Tropical Management (IITM), Pune. The air pollutants, namely PM10andPM2.5 are listed under the national ambient air quality standards. Black Carbon is reportedly monitored by IITM for weather forecasting. As per available data, there is mixed trend in the levels of PM10 and PM2.5 at different locations in the capital Delhi. (b) To control air pollution in Delhi, various steps have been taken by the Government which inter-alia include; use of coal fired boilers banned unless fitted with electro static precipitator; closure of 1328 hazardous, noxious & heavy/large industries; closure of a coal based Indraprastha Thermal Power Plant; banning of burning of

leaves/biomass; registering only B.S. III/IV compliant two/three wheelers and cars in Delhi with effect from 01.04.2010; insistence on dust control measures in construction projects; strengthening network of metro trains as a means of public transport; use of natural gas as fuel in bus, taxies and autos for public transport; etc. DISPOSING OF BIO-MEDICAL WASTES 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2812 DR. R. LAKSHMANAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has intensified surprise check of hospitals across the country to ascertain whether provisions of Bio-Medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1988 are strictly followed in disposing off biomedical wastes subsequent to the order of the National Green Tribunal;

(b) if so, the details of the surprise check undertaken by Government; (c) whether it was found that some/few hospitals are not following the prescribed procedure in disposing

the bio-medical wastes; and (d) if so, the details of action taken by Government against such defaulting hospitals?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (d): In compliance with the orders of National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Appeal No. 63 of 2012, during the year 2013, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) along with the concerned State Pollution Control Board/Pollution Control Committee has inspected sixty eight Health Care Facilities (HCFs) in Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. As per the inspections these HCFs were not complying with the Bio-medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998, as amended. The inspection reports were submitted to NGT. All HCFs have been directed by NGT to take necessary corrective measures to comply with the rules. LEAD ROLE OF WOMEN UNDER VAN PANCHAYATS 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2813 SMT. T. RATNA BAI SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that women are taking the lead role in reviving and maintaining civil forests under Van Panchayats even in the face of several obstacles; and

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise ?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) and (b) Yes Sir. Presently, Van Panchayats are existing only in Uttarakhand. As per information provided by the Forest Department, Government of Uttarakhand, women are playing an important role in protection of civil forests, as they are aware about the role of forests in soil and water conservation as well as for providing fuel

and fodder. Women self help groups (SHGs) have been formed in the villages, which are raising nurseries and taking other forestry activities. 50% of the Van Panchayat Sapranch are reserved for women as per Van Panchayat Niyamawali, 2005. ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO PROJECTS IN THREE WEEKS 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2814 SHRI PRABHAT JHA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) Whether it is a fact that Government has recently given environmental clearance to 74 pending projects within three weeks; if so, the details thereof; and

(b) the reasons for giving environmental clearance to so many pending projects simultaneously, and the reasons for keeping these projects pending earlier?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) :The Ministry of Environment & Forests has accorded environment clearance to 49 projects in the month of January, 2014. The environment clearance is granted as per the procedure prescribed under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, as amended. The receipt of proposals for environment clearance, processing of the same as per the prescribed procedure and taking an appropriate view thereupon is a continuing process. During the year 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14 (upto January, 2014), environment clearances were given to 496, 466 and 338 projects respectively. DECREASING NUMBER OF TIGERS 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2815 DR. BHALCHANDRA MUNGEKAR DR. VIJAYLAXMI SADHO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the number of tigers is decreasing in the country, if so, the reasons therefor; (b) the situation of tigers in Madhya Pradesh; (c) the steps taken by Government for conservation of the tiger throughout the country especially in

Madhya Pradesh; and (d) the information available with Government about poaching of tiger and the action being taken by

Government thereon and the details thereof? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) The country level tiger population, assessed once in every four years using the refined methodology, has shown an increasing trend, with a population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively, in the recent assessment of 2010, as compared to the last country level assessment of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. In the said assessment of 2010, the

tiger population in Madhya Pradesh was estimated as 257, with lower and upper values being 213 and 301 respectively, which is lower than the 2006 estimation, of the said State with an estimate of 300, the lower and upper values being 236 and 364 respectively. The details of tiger estimation for the years 2006 and 2010, interalia including Madhya Pradesh, are at Annexure-I. (c) The milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for conservation and protection of tigers in the country, interalia, including those for the State of Madhya Pradesh also are at Annexure-II. (d) The National Tiger Conservation Authority treats every case of tiger death as poaching unless proved otherwise. The details of tiger mortality during last and current years, as reported by States, are at Annexure-III. Since the day to day management of tiger reserves, including protection, is done by States, details of action taken on individual cases of poaching are not collated at the Government of India level. The steps taken to control poaching are at Annexure-IV.

Annexure-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2815 ON DECREASING NUMBER OF TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.02.2014.

Details of tiger estimation for the years 2006 and 2010



Estimate (Number)



Estimate (Number)





297 259 335 353

320 388 Stable

Central Indian Landscape Complex and Eastern Ghats Landscape Complex Andhra Pradesh 95 84 107 72 65 79 Decrease Chhattisgarh 26 23 28 26 24 27 Stable Madhya Pradesh 300 236 364 257 213 301 Stable Maharashtra 103 76 131 169 155 183 Increase Odisha 45 37 53 32 20 44 Stable Rajasthan 32 30 35 36 35 37 Stable Jharkhand Not

assessed 10 6 14 Could not be



601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable


Karnataka 290 241 339 300 280 320 Stable Kerala 46 39 53 71 67 75 Increase Tamil Nadu 76 56 95 163 153 173 Increase Western Ghats 402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase

landscape North Eastern Hills and Brahmaputra Flood Plains Assam 70 60 80 143 113 173 Increase Arunachal Pradesh

14

12 18 Not assessed

Not assessed



10 8 12 Not assessed

Not assessed



100

84 118 148

118 178 Increase

Sundarbans Not assessed

Not assessed

Not assessed 70


TOTAL 1411 1165 1657 1706 1520 1909 *** Statistical lower / upper limits could not be ascertained owing to small size of the population.

Annexure-II ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2815 ON DECREASING NUMBER OF TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.02.2014. Milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for conservation and protection of tigers in the country, interalia, including for the State of Madhya Pradesh Legal steps


2. Enhancement of punishment for offence in relation to the core area of a tiger reserve or where the

offence relate to hunting in the tiger reserves or altering the boundaries of tiger reserves, etc. Administrative steps


4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from the 4th September, 2006,

for strengthening tiger conservation by, interalia, ensuring normative standards in tiger reserve management, preparation of reserve specific tiger conservation plan, laying down annual audit report before Parliament, constituting State level Steering Committees under the Chairmanship of Chief Ministers and establishment of Tiger Conservation Foundation.

5. Constitution of a multidisciplinary Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau (Wildlife Crime Control Bureau) with effect from the 6th June, 2007 to effectively control illegal trade in wildlife.

6. The in-principle approval has been accorded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority for creation

of three new tiger reserves, and the sites are: Pilibhit (Uttar Pradesh), Ratapani (Madhya Pradesh) and Sunabeda (Odisha). Final approval has been accorded to Kudremukh (Karnataka) and Rajaji (Uttarakhand) for declaring as a tiger reserve. The State Governments have been advised to send proposals for declaring the following areas as tiger reserves: (i) Bor (Maharashtra), (ii) Suhelwa (Uttar Pradesh), (iii) Guru Ghasidas National Park (Chhattisgarh), (iv) Mhadei Sanctuary (Goa) and (v) Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel / Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries / Varushanadu Valley (Tamil Nadu).

7. The revised Project Tiger guidelines have been issued to State Governments for strengthening tiger

conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, inter alia, include financial support to States for enhanced village relocation or rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh per family to Rs. 10 lakhs per family), rehabilitation or resettlement of communities involved in traditional hunting, mainstreaming livelihood and wildlife concerns in forests outside tiger reserves and fostering corridor conservation through restorative strategy to arrest habitat fragmentation.

8. A scientific methodology for estimating tiger (including co-predators, prey animals and assessment of

habitat status) has been evolved and mainstreamed. The findings of this estimation and assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. The 17 tiger States have notified the core/critical tiger habitat (36988.28 sq. km.), and the

buffer/peripheral area (29789.06 sq.km.) of all the 44 tiger reserves in the country, under section 38V of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006.

Financial steps




12. A protocol has been signed in September, 2011 with Bangladesh for conservation of the Royal Bengal

Tiger of the Sunderban.


14. A Global Tiger Forum of Tiger Range Countries has been created for addressing international issues

related to tiger conservation.


16. Based on India's strong intervention during the 62nd meeting of the Standing Committee of the

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) at Geneva from 23-27 July, 2012, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora Secretariat has issued a notification No. 2012/054 dated the 3rd September, 2012 to Parties to fully implement Decision 14.69 and report to the Secretariat by 25 September, 2012 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.).

17. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become

locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers and tigresses have been done. The successful reintroduction of wild tigers in Sariska is a unique exercise and is the first of its kind in the world. A reintroduced tigress has recently littered and two cubs have also been camera trapped. The tiger reintroduction initiative at Panna (MP) has also been very successful and reintroduced tigers are breeding.

18. Special advisories issued for in-situ build up of prey base and tiger population through active

management in tiger reserves having low population status of tiger and its prey. Creation of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)

19. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of the 29th February, 2008, inter alia, contains action points relating to tiger protection. Based on the one time grant of Rs. 50.00 crore provided to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) for raising, arming and deploying a Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF), the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. The States of Karnataka and Maharashtra have already created and deployed the STPF.

20. In collaboration with TRAFFIC-INDIA, an online tiger crime data base has been launched, and

Generic Guidelines for preparation of reserve specific Security Plan has been evolved. Recent initiatives


22. Special crack teams sent to tiger reserves affected by left wing extremism and low population status of

tiger and its prey.


24. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching 'Monitoring

system for Tigers' Intensive Protection and Ecological Status (M-STrIPES)' for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

25. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

26. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from

providing incentives.

27. The second round of country level tiger status assessment completed in 2010, with the findings indicating an increase with a tiger population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively, as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657, respectively. At present, India has the maximum number of tigers and its source areas amongst the 13 tiger range countries in the world, owing to its long history of conserving the species through Project Tiger (2% of country's geographical area spread out in 44 tiger reserves in 17 States).

28. A report on Management Effectiveness Evaluation (MEE) of Tiger Reserves was released on 28th

July, 2011, containing the second round of independent assessment based on refined criteria done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves. Out of 39 tiger reserves, 15 were rated as 'very good', 12 as 'good', 8 as 'satisfactory' and 4 as 'poor'.

29. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas.

30. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority are operational at Nagpur, Bengaluru

and Guwahati.

31. A 'Standard Operating Procedure' for dealing with tiger deaths has been issued, based on advisories of Project Tiger / National Tiger Conservation Authority, with inputs from Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, State officials and experts, fine tuned to meet the present challenges.

32. A ‘Standard Operating Procedure’ for dealing with straying tigers in human dominated landscape has

been issued.

33. A ‘Standard Operating Procedure’ for disposing tiger/leopard carcass/body parts has been issued.

34. The Revised Cost Estimates for Project Tiger was approved on 11.8.2011 for an upward revision of the cost estimates for the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger during the XIth Plan period from 650 crore to Rs. 1216.86 crore of central assistance to support States in village relocation from core areas of tiger reserves. Several new components were added to the Project, viz.:

(i) Change in the funding pattern in respect of North Eastern States (90:10) (ii) Raising compensation for man-animal conflict to Rs. 2 lakhs (iii) Acquisition of private land for making the core/critical tiger habitat inviolate (iv) Establishment of Tiger Safari, interpretation/awareness centres under the existing component of

'co-existence agenda in buffer/fringe areas', and management of such centres through the respective Panchayati Raj Institutions



36. Launching the creation of a national repository of camera trap photo IDs of individual tigers.

37. In-principle approval for use of CAMPA funds towards village relocation from core areas.

38. Completion of e-surveillance project in Corbett.

39. Comprehensive guidelines under section 38O 1 (c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 issued for

Project Tiger and Tourism in Tiger Reserves on 15th October, 2012.

40. Under active management, permission accorded for translocation of two tigresses from Ranthambhore to Sariska (Rajasthan), besides one straying sub-adult male tiger from Panna to Satpura (Madhya Pradesh), and one straying tiger from Pilibhit to Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (Uttar Pradesh).

41. A bilateral arrangement has been recently formalized with Bangladesh on tiger conservation. Our

delegations are interacting with Nepal and China within the framework of existing bilateral arrangements. A sub-group on tiger/leopard conservation has been constituted for cooperation with the Russian Federation, which has met recently.

42. Field level workshops for capacity building of field officers to deal with straying tigers have been

organized at Tadoba and Dudhwa Tiger Reserves (2013).

43. NTCA teams sent for field appraisal of tiger deaths, Project Tiger implementation etc.

44. Process underway for providing enabling provisions in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, to

strengthen our implementation of the CITES and towards enhancement of penalties for contravention of provisions of the Act.

45. Kawal (Andhra Pradesh), Sathyamangalam (Tamil Nadu), Mukandra Hills (Darrah, Jawahar Sagar and

Chambal Wildlife Sanctuaries) (Rajasthan) and Nawegaon-Nagzira (Maharashtra) have been notified by the State Governments as Tiger Reserve.

46. Action has been initiated for the next round (2014) of country level status assessment of tiger, co-

predators, prey and habitat, using the refined methodology, in collaboration with tiger States and the Wildlife Institute of India.

47. Action has been initiated for the next round (2014) of Independent Management Effectiveness

Evaluation of Tiger Reserves.

Annexure-III

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2815 ON DECREASING NUMBER OF TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.02.2014.

Details of tiger mortality during last year and current year, as reported by States 1. 2013 (As on 31.12.2013)

S. No. State Inside Tiger Reserve Total Outside Tiger Reserve Total

Grand Total


Poaching Including seizure

Natural & Other causes




1 Assam 5 1 0 6 2 0 0 2 8 2 Karnataka 10 1 0 11 2 2 0 4 15 3 Kerala 0 0 0 0 4 1 1 6 6

4 Madhya Pradesh 6 1 2 9 0 1 0 1 10

5 Maharashtra 0 3 0 3 5 0 3 8 11 6 Odisha 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 7 Tamil Nadu 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 2 8 Uttarakhand 1 0 0 1 7 1 0 8 9

9 Uttar Pradesh 1 2 0 3 0 1 0 1 4

10 West Bengal 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1

11 Rajasthan 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1

TOTAL 25 8 3 36 21 6 5 32 68 Note: 18 Kg. approximately tiger bones were seized in Delhi (07.09.2013) by a team of Forest Department officials from Maharashtra, Wildlife Crime Control Bureau and Delhi Police. 2. 2014 (As on 17.02.2014)

S. No. State Inside Tiger Reserve Total Outside Tiger Reserve Total Grand







Total

1 Andhra Pradesh 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1

2 Madhya Pradesh 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 3

3 Maharashtra 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 4 Tamil Nadu 3 0 0 3 2 0 0 2 4

TOTAL 8 0 0 8 2 0 0 2 10

Annexure-IV ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2815 ON DECREASING NUMBER OF TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.02.2014.

Steps taken to control poaching

• Alerting the States as and when required • Transmitting backward / forward linkages of information relating to poachers • Advising the States for combing forest floor to check snares / traps • Performing supervisory field visits through the National Tiger Conservation Authority and its

regional offices • Providing assistance to States for antipoaching operations • Using information technology for improved surveillance (e-Eye system) using thermal

cameras launched in Corbett • Launching tiger reserve level monitoring using camera trap to keep a photo ID database of

individual tigers • Preparing a national database of individual tiger photo captures to establish linkage with body

parts seized or dead tigers • Assisting States to refine protection in some tiger reserves, on a pilot basis, through a

customized monitoring system for tiger’s intensive protection and ecological status (M-STrIPES)

• Providing grant through NTCA for patrolling in tiger rich sensitive forest areas outside some tiger reserves

• Assisting States to deploy local workforce in a big way for protection to complement the efforts of field staff

• Supporting States for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force PROTECTION OF ENVIRONMENT PLAN 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2816 DR. VIJAYLAXMI SADHO Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has any plan for the protection of environment and to increase the forest area; (b) if so, the forest area increased by new afforestation;

(c) the amount provided for environment protection and afforestation, State-wise, the details thereof for the last five years, year-wise and State-wise; and

(d) the details of the amount allocated and utilized? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (d) Ministry of Environment and Forest (MOEF) is implementing National Afforestation Programme (NAP) which is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme for tree plantation and eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas of the country through people’s participation. Details of area covered and funds released and utilized by the States during the last five years under NAP are given in Annexure I and Annexure II.

Annexure I Annexure referred to in reply to part (a), (b), (c) and (d) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question Number 2816 due for answer on 20.02.2014 regarding Protection of environment plan.

State wise details of area covered under National Afforestation Programme Scheme from 2008-09 to 2012-13

(Area in ha.)

S no. State 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 1 Andhra Pradesh 8182 4182 2341 5453 0

2 Bihar 3675 3475 0 5647 2415

3 Chhattisgarh 14706 8450 1177 8370 2934

4 Goa 0 0 0 0

5 Gujarat 14620 4920 1760 11150 2000

6 Haryana 8260 5526 1100 3145 1519

7 Himachal Pradesh 1222 1255 1646 2566 1450

8 Jammu & Kashmir 6370 3550 0 4857 4486

9 Jharkhand 14680 9980 0 4815 0

10 Karnataka 3765 2200 0 9523 1880

11 Kerala 4118 1095 666 2947 1000

12 Madhya Pradesh 13367 6188 13000 10219 5125

13 Maharashtra 5182 7219 0 9854 2900

14 Orissa 7400 1745 0 7410 1975

15 Punjab 1640 547 0 625 0

16 Rajasthan 9500 6800 400 3300 1250

17 Tamil Nadu 5670 4025 0 2984 1800

18 Uttar Pradesh 18355 9664 5167 12435 4270

19 Uttarakhand 3510 4065 3340 5058 2350

20 West Bengal 4793 615 2815 2360 710

Total (Other States) 149015 85501 33412 112718 38064

21 Arunachal Pradesh 1450 1750 3125 0 0

22 Assam 6365 3625 0 0 0

23 Manipur 2950 1525 3599 4250 3970

24 Meghalaya 1970 800 4800 3930 3000

25 Mizoram 4500 2700 2370 2600 2500

26 Nagaland 3500 4050 2000 8000 2910

27 Sikkim 3350 2225 1549 3730 650

28 Tripura 335 1380 6271 6220 4435

Total (NE States) 24420 18055 23714 28730 17465

G. Total 173435 103556 57126 141448 55529

Annexure II Annexure referred to in reply to part (a), (b), (c) and (d) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question Number 2816 due for answer on 20.02.2014 regarding Protection of environment plan.

State wise details of funds released and utilized under National Afforestation Programme Scheme from 2008-09 to 2012-13

S no. State 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13

1 Andhra Pradesh 11.54 11.03 10.48 15.15 2.71 2 Bihar 6.48 7.74 5.48 6.92 3.40 3 Chhattisgarh 25.66 25.12 33.25 24.74 13.33 4 Goa 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 0.00 5 Gujarat 25.75 24.44 29.43 27.00 14.30 6 Haryana 20.14 20.57 24.20 12.28 6.41 7 Himachal Pradesh 6.72 3.59 3.45 3.50 3.62 8 Jammu & Kashmir 8.47 9.81 3.99 6.89 3.37 9 Jharkhand 26.32 21.06 8.73 10.42 4.69

10 Karnataka 15.46 11.95 8.12 12.92 6.81 11 Kerala 9.45 4.02 7.54 2.04 11.30 12 Madhya Pradesh 22.55 22.53 30.39 21.43 9.15 13 Maharashtra 21.87 20.53 16.17 28.51 28.87 14 Orissa 21.63 8.82 11.20 7.30 3.38 15 Punjab 3.30 3.01 0 0.46 0.76 16 Rajasthan 7.32 10.67 4.94 6.23 4.14 17 Tamil Nadu 8.86 7.98 7.21 3.08 2.78 18 Uttar Pradesh 30.80 30.20 21.33 26.23 15.27 19 Uttarakhand 9.24 7.00 4.47 6.61 6.25 20 West Bengal 9.06 3.11 4.12 6.29 2.57 Total (Other States) 290.62 253.17 234.50 228.00 143.11

21 Arunachal Pradesh 3.25 2.37 5.52 0.00 1.66 22 Assam 9.78 14.48 6.08 7.95 1.47 23 Manipur 9.51 5.93 10.37 12.74 9.46 24 Meghalaya 4.69 2.21 8.79 4.31 9.10 25 Mizoram 13.61 17.27 12.21 13.44 8.78 26 Nagaland 6.64 10.67 10.11 11.69 10.88 27 Sikkim 6.63 8.86 11.99 11.18 5.42 28 Tripura 0.89 3.20 10.43 13.69 3.50 Total (NE States) 55.00 65.00 75.49 75.00 50.26 G. Total 345.62 318.17 309.99 303.00 193.37

ILLEGAL TRADE OF LEOPARD’S SKIN 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2817 SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA


(a) whether Government is aware of the revelations made during August, 2012 by Shri Divyabhanusinh Chavda, Member of National Board for Wildlife and Chairman of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) India, that leopards’ number may decline rapidly like that of tigers’ number, if a holistic strategy is not adopted to tackle illegal trade of wildlife; and

(b) if so, whether special and deterrent measures were adopted in areas like Uttarakhand which has emerged as a major source of leopards’ body parts, and similarly Delhi which is becoming an epicenter of illegal trade for 90 per cent of leopards’ skin which is eventually traded to Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, etc?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) Yes, Sir. (b) The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has taken the following measures to prevent killing of leopards and illegal trade of its part and products:

i. Collection of intelligence on wildlife criminals involved in leopard poaching and disseminates the same to the enforcement agencies concerned for apprehension of criminals.

ii. Coordination of inter-agency enforcement efforts to tackle wildlife crime including illegal trade in parts of Asian big cats.

iii. Capacity building programmes for wildlife crime enforcement agencies in detection and investigation of wildlife offences.

iv. Awareness campaigns and sensitization programmes on wildlife crime to various stake holders. v. The Bureau has brought out the following publications for the capacity building of the officials of the

agencies concerned, in detection and identification of wildlife articles and scientific investigation of offences: a) A manual of X-Ray images of wildlife species in trade. b) A handbook on wildlife crime investigation.

vi. Ministry of Environment and forests has also introduced a Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill 2013 in Rajya Sabha, in which, inter alia prescribed punishments for wildlife offences have been proposed to be enhanced.

The Bill also seeks to incorporate the provisions of CITES (Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora), thereby making violation of CITES also an offence. WATER POLLUTION IN YAMUNA RIVER 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2818 SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

a) the sources of water pollution in the Yamuna river and the quality of its water at different places; b) the details of the schemes being implemented to make the Yamuna river pollution free and

achievements made as a result thereof; c) the amount spent thereon during the last three years and the current year; d) the details of the agencies included/awarded the contract for river management under the above said

schemes; and

e) whether the pollution in the Yamuna river increases as a result of idol immersion during the festivals and if so, the details of steps taken to check pollution during such occasions?

THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) The main source of pollution of river Yamuna is the untreated/ partially treated domestic sewage discharged into the river through the drains which join the river from the towns located on the banks of the river. As per the information provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), sewage pollution is mainly contributed by the towns of Yamunanagar, Jagadhri, Karnal, Panipat, Sonepat, Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Ghaziabad, Palwal, Vrindavan, Mathura, Agra, Firozabad and Etawah. Delhi is the largest contributor of sewage pollution load to river Yamuna. As per the water quality monitoring of Yamuna by CPCB, the stretch of river Yamuna from origin to Wazirabad in Delhi is found to be largely within the prescribed limits with respect to dissolved oxygen and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). However, Wazirabad to Okhla in Delhi and Kosi Kalan to Juhika in Uttar Pradesh have been identified as polluted stretches. (b) & (c) Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. The Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna by providing financial assistance to Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) since 1993 in a phased manner. A total expenditure of Rs. 1453.17 crore (including State share) has been incurred on schemes pertaining to sewerage/interception and diversion of drains, rehabilitation/upgradation of existing sewage treatment plants (STPs) and construction of new STPs, low cost sanitation/community toilet complexes, electric/improved wood crematoria, etc under YAP Phase-I & II in the three States. Sewage treatment capacity of 942.25 million litres per day (mld) has been created under YAP so far. Further, YAP Phase-III project for Delhi has been approved with an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore. Under YAP-III, Delhi Jal Board (DJB) is implementing rehabilitation of existing trunk sewers and rising mains, upgradation of existing STPs of 814 mld and construction of a new 136 mld STP (in place of the old STP). Besides this, two projects costing Rs. 217.87 crore for pollution abatement of river Yamuna in towns of Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana are under implementation, on which an expenditure of Rs. 57.36 crore has been incurred till date. In addition, under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) project of Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD), an interceptor sewer project costing Rs. 1357 crore is being implemented by DJB to intercept sewage flowing into river Yamuna from three major drains, namely Najafgarh, Supplementary and Shahdara in Delhi. The details of expenditure incurred by the States during the last three years and current year for conservation of river Yamuna under YAP is as under:-

Year Expenditure incurred including State Share (Rs. Crore)

2010 – 2011 198.64 2011 – 2012 125.18 2012 – 2013 80.03

2013-14 (upto Dec. 2013) 54.42 The water quality of river Yamuna has not shown the desired improvement due to a large gap between sewage generation and availability of sewage treatment capacity and lack of adequate fresh water in the river. (d) The implementing agencies for YAP schemes in the states are Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam in Uttar Pradesh, Public Health Engineering Department in Haryana and Delhi Jal Board and Municipal Corporation of Delhi in Delhi. These agencies, which are nominated by the respective State Governments, award the contracts for various pollution abatement works sanctioned under YAP. (e) According to CPCB, pollution levels in river Yamuna increase due to idol immersions and the water quality of river Yamuna deteriorates as the river is burdened with disposal of degradable and non-biodegradable materials and other liquid pollutants (oil, ghee, etc.). CPCB has brought out specific guidelines on prevention and control of pollution from idol immersions. These guidelines prescribe that the State Pollution Control

Boards (SPCBs)/ Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) conduct water quality assessment of the water body before and after immersions, post the data on internet and help local administration in preparing material for mass awareness for the purpose. Further, the guidelines prescribe that idols be made from natural materials like traditional clay, water soluble and nontoxic natural dyes be used for painting of idols, worship material like flowers, clothes, decorating material (made of paper and plastic) be removed before immersion of idols, biodegradable materials collected separately for recycling or composting, non-biodegradable materials disposed off in sanitary landfills, immersion of idols in river be done at identified idol immersion spots along the river bank in temporary ponds having earthen bunds with removable synthetic liners at bottom, etc. The guidelines have been circulated to all States and Union Territories for implementation. Objectives of formation of green tribunal 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2819 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether the aims and objectives of formation of Green Tribunal have been achieved, the number of benches and judges in Green Tribunal and whether Green Tribunal has been able to dispose all cases in time; and

(b) the number of case judgements that have already been pronounced and how many Institutions and individuals offenders have been punished?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR.M.VEERAPPA MOILLY) (a) The NGT has been established under NGT Act, 2010 on 18th October, 2010 for the effective and expeditious adjudication cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources including enforcement of any legal right relating to environment and giving relief and compensation for damages to persons and property and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. There are presently two Benches at Principal Bench, New Delhi and one Bench each at its Zonal Benches i.e. Southern Zone Bench at Chennai, Central Zone Bench at Bhopal and Western Zone Bench at Pune, Another Zonal Bench i.e. Eastern Zone Bench at Kolkata is being operationalized soon. Presently, beside the Chairperson, there are 7 Judicial Members and 10 Expert Members. As per provision of Rule 18 of National Green Tribunal (Practice and Procedure) Rule, 2011, cases are heard and decided finally, as far as possible, within six months from the date of their filing. (b) Since the establishment of NGT on 18th October, 2010, 2212 cases have been disposed of by the NGT till 31.1.2014, by way of order/judgement. No offenders have been punished by the NGT so far. RIGIDITY IN ENVIRONMENT AND FOREST PROTECTION ACT 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2820 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that in India inspite of rigidity in Environment and Forest Protection Act there are serious violations because of inadequate, inefficient and corrupt implementing machinery and abnormal delay in courts for disposing the case; and

(b) if so, the total number of forest and wild animals poaching and smuggling cases that are pending in

different courts, Statewise and the strategy for early disposal of these cases? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b): Appropriate implementation mechanism is in place to ensure effective enforcement of the provisions under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. In case of violation of any provision under these statutes, action as per law is taken. As regards the wildlife related cases, the complaints for trial of offences are filed in the criminal courts in the State/Union Territories by the Officers empowered by the State/Union Territories Governments under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for this purpose. In forest related cases involving violation of Indian Forest Act, 1927, action as per law is taken by the concerned State/Union Territory Governments. ACTION PLAN TO PROTECT THE FOREST 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2821 SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether India has achieved the United Nations’ Millenium Development Goals target, if not, the reasons therefor; and

(b) whether India has any separate exclusive action plan to protect the forest and environment and reduce the impact of pollution, if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b): Under Millenium Development Goals (MDGs), MDG-7 is titled as “Ensure environmental sustainability”. Target-9 under this Goal, i.e., “Integrate the principle of sustainable development into country policies and programmes and reverse the loss of environmental resources”, inter-alia, relates to the programmes and functions of the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF). As per the Report titled “Millenium Development Goals India Country Report-2014” taken out by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation, the progress achieved by India relating to Target-9 is stated as “Moderately on track”. As per this Report, as per 2011 assessment, the country has forest cover of 692027 sq. km., which is 21.05 % of the country’s geographical area. The National Afforestation Programme (NAP) implemented by MoEF is a participatory approach to sustainable development of forests. India is one of the 17 mega diverse countries with 4 global bio-diversity hot spots. The network of protected areas in India presently covers about 5.06 % of the country’s total geographical area. The National Mission for Green India is one of the eight missions under the National Action Plan on climate change which, inter-alia, aims at increasing forest / tree cover on 5 million ha of forest / non-forest lands and improve quality of forest cover on another 5 million ha (i.e. a total of 10 million ha). The Forest Conservation Act, 1980 aims at conserving the forests and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 aims at protecting and improving the environment in the country.

FOREST AREAS DIVERTED FOR NON-FOREST PURPOSE 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2822 SMT. RENUBALA PRADHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the forest areas in the country diverted for the non-forest purpose in the last five years; (b) the details thereof, State-wise and forest lands diverted for different purposes; (c) the details of the forests regenerated during the same period in lieu of the loss of the forest land, State-

wise; and (d) the expenditure made during the period for regeneration of the forests, State-wise?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) The Ministry of Environment and Forests, during the last five years has granted approval for diversion of 1,80,659 ha of forest land for non-forestry purposes in total 6,462 number of cases. State wise and category wise detail of number of cases and forest area diverted is given in Annexure- I. (c) & (d) A statement of funds released by the Ad-hoc CAMPA, year wise, to the State CAMPAs is given in the Annexure-II. The Annual Plan of Operation is approved by the State level Steering Committee and funds are allocated by the Ad-hoc CAMPA as per the State CAMPA Guideline issued in 2009, with the approval of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. The funds thus allocated are utilized for compensatory afforestation, penal compensatory afforestation, wildlife management plans, soil conservation, activities, etc. Optimal utilization of funds is ensured by insisting that at least 70% of the funds allocated in the past are utilized, before any further allocation of funds is undertaken. ANNEXURES REFERRED TO IN STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PART (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2822 BY SHRIMATI RENUBALA PRADHAN REGARDING ‘FOREST AREAS DIVERTED FOR NON-FOREST PURPOSE’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.02.2014.

Annexure I

State wise details of proposal received by the Central Government and forest area diverted during the last five years (2009-2013) under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980

S. No. Name of the State/Union Territory

Number of proposals* Area diverted (Ha)

1. Andaman and Nicobar 18 31.76 2. Andhra Pradesh 128 12802.45 3. Arunachal Pradesh 96 6240.00 4. Assam 32 872.92 5. Bihar 131 4490.54 6. Chandigarh 7 0.49 7. Chhattisgarh 103 12969.15 8. Dadar & Nagar Haveli 23 6.53 9. Daman and Diu 1 3.95 10. Delhi 4 17.02 11. Goa 23 973.24 12. Gujarat 418 7249.75 13. Haryana 1124 2291.33 14. Himachal Pradesh 469 4539.55 15. Jammu and Kashmir - -

16. Jharkhand 183 14901.27 17. Karnataka 91 2793.78 18. Kerala 22 34.98 19. Lakshdeep - - 20. Madhya Pradesh 226 10769.28 21. Maharashtra 244 6724.20 22. Manipur 7 915.29 23. Meghalaya 10 382.01 24. Mizoram 4 711.90 25. Nagaland - - 26. Odisha 112 13964.04 27. Puducherry - - 28. Punjab 1055 57561.91 29. Rajasthan 155 7243.91 30. Sikkim 71 1424.85 31. Tamil Nadu 60 523.91 32. Tripura 56 122.49 33. Uttar Pradesh 476 1974.29 34. Uttarakhand 1076 7814.77 35. West Bengal 37 307.55

Total 6462 180659.11 *(number includes proposals which have been accorded Stage-I and Stage-II approval)

Category wise details of proposal received by the Central Government and forest area diverted during the last five years (2009-2013) under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980

S. No. Category Number of proposals* Area diverted (ha) 1. Defence 59 6785.66 2. Dispensary/Hospital 10 10.05 3. Drinking Water 171 713.75 4. Encroachments 1 504.56 5. Forest Village Conversion 1 0.00 6. Hydel 122 7278.49 7. Industry 11 6.02 8. Irrigation 214 18581.02 9. Mining 359 42869.16 10. Railway 76 65398.02 11. Rehabilitation 8 2198.18 12. Road 2181 1593.01 13. School 33 20672.71 14. Thermal 25 41.74 15. Transmission Line 691 2347.78 16. Village Electricity 8 9801.09 17. Wind Power 31 12.81 18. Others** 2461 1845.04

Total 6462 180659.11 *(number includes proposals which have been accorded Stage-I and Stage-II approval) **Category other includes laying of pipe lines, petrol pumps, eco-tourism projects, building infrastructure projects, etc.

ANNEXURES REFERRED TO IN STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PART (c) & (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2822 BY SHRIMATI RENUBALA PRADHAN REGARDING ‘FOREST AREAS DIVERTED FOR NON-FOREST PURPOSE’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.02.2014.

Annexure II Year wise statement of funds released by the Ad-hoc CAMPA, during the last five years, to the State CAMPAs.

Sl. No. State/UT 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

Date Amount (in Rs.) Date Amount (in Rs.) Date Amount (in Rs.) Date Amount (in Rs.) Date Amount (in Rs.) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

28.08.2009 1,09,90,000.00 01.10.2010

78,69,000.00 18.06.2012 57,79,000.00

2 Andhra Pradesh 28.08.2009

89,78,32,000.00 01.10.2010 1,20,74,44,000.00 23.08.2011

1,18,57,00,000.00 06.10.2012 1,19,60,39,000.00 09.07.2013

92,00,00,000.00

3 Arunachal Pradesh 03.04.2010

16,36,76,000.00 22.11.2010 17,78,82,000.00

08.09.2011 / 25.10.2011 / 09.11.2011 /

29.11.2011

41,19,00,000.00 02.01.2013

11,76,13,000.00

4 Assam 17.08.2009 6,71,74,000.00 01.10.2010

10,44,87,000.00 13.02.2013 15,05,92,100.00

5 Bihar 20.11.2009 7,73,00,000.00 18.01.2011

8,66,74,000.00 25.11.2011 8,04,00,000.00 02.01.2013

8,46,50,000.00 17.02.2014 10,80,19,400.00

6 Chandigarh 17.08.2009 17,65,000.00 01.10.2010

12,96,000.00 19.06.2013 10,00,000.00

7 Chhattisgarh 17.08.2009 1,23,21,35,000.00 01.10.2010

1,34,10,66,000.00 08.09.2011 99,54,39,000.00 21.08.2012

1,14,38,00,000.00 09.07.2013 /

22.01.2014

1,10,00,00,000.00

8 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 04.09.2009

16,82,000.00 28.10.2011 15,36,000.00

9 Daman & Diu - - - - - - - - - - - -

10 Delhi 21.01.2010 1,84,71,000.00 18.01.2011

1,39,91,000.00 02.07.2013 1,01,00,000.00 03.09.2013

2,00,86,000.00

11 Goa 17.08.2009 12,11,97,000.00 01.10.2010

10,24,68,000.00 17.02.2014 8,55,00,000.00 17.02.2014

8,05,00,000.00 17.02.214 6,50,00,000.00

12 Gujarat 19.08.2009 24,96,47,000.00 01.10.2010

29,15,68,000.00 08.09.2011 26,30,00,000.00 09.11.2012

32,41,17,000.00 29.10.2013 28,00,00,000.00

13 Haryana 17.08.2009 19,11,41,000.00 01.10.2010

18,89,09,000.00 11.06.2012 16,45,00,000.00 09.07.2013

16,00,00,000.00

14 Himachal Pradesh 21.08.2009

36,67,71,000.00 01.10.2010 42,16,56,000.00

23.08.2011 / 09.12.2011

57,12,62,400.00

02.01.2013 / 11.02.2013 /

30.03.2013

52,40,00,000.00 02.11.2013

53,50,00,000.00

15 Jammu & Kashmir - - - - - - 29.11.2012

23,78,35,000.00 - -

16 Jharkhand 12.03.2010 95,00,28,000.00 01.10.2010

1,03,16,22,000.00 24.11.2011 62,49,89,300.00

02.01.2013 / 27.06.2013

95,96,00,000.00 20.11.2013

97,50,00,000.00

17 Karnataka 19.08.2009 58,55,73,000.00 01.10.2010

50,91,60,000.00 30.08.2011 /

09.09.2011

41,57,00,000.00 06.10.2012 43,72,00,000.00 10.10.2013

34,50,00,000.00

18 Kerala 12.03.2010 1,75,09,000.00 26.03.2013

1,36,52,000.00 - - - - - -

19 Lakshadweep - - - - - - - - - -

20 Madhya Pradesh 17.08.2009

53,04,82,000.00 01.10.2010 50,96,56,000.00 09.01.2012

53,52,09,000.00 27.06.2013 61,50,00,000.00

21 Maharashtra 22.02.2010 89,35,49,000.00 18.01.2011

85,48,93,000.00 16.11.2011 82,63,00,000.00 06.10.2012

78,21,23,000.00 17.05.2013 /

27.06.2013

78,00,00,000.00

22 Manipur 08.12.2009 74,56,000.00 01.10.2010

1,33,50,000.00 11.06.2012 1,91,34,000.00 22.08.2013

1,97,29,000.00

23 Meghalaya 20.04.2010 9,67,000.00 20.11.2013

6,97,000.00

24 Mizoram 05.03.2013 1,07,38,000.00 22.08.2013

82,14,000.00

25 Nagaland - - - - - - - - - -

26 Orissa 21.08.2009 1,31,06,18,000.00 18.01.2011

1,40,17,53,000.00 23.08.2011 /

04.06.2012

1,76,09,10,050.00 30.11.2012 2,05,82,44,000.00

27 Pondicherry

28 Punjab 08.12.2009 33,05,47,000.00 01.10.2010

26,52,15,000.00 16.09.2011 /

21.09.2011

22,07,83,872.00 27.08.2012 19,31,18,000.00 09.07.2013

21,50,00,000.00

29 Rajasthan 07.01.2010 32,59,08,000.00 18.01.2011

42,06,98,000.00 11.11.2011 31,89,13,000.00 25.02.2013

37,42,98,000.00 20.11.2013 34,50,00,000.00

30 Sikkim 17.08.2009 8,00,92,000.00

01.10.2010 / 22.11.2010

10,23,34,000.00

02.09.2011 / 12.10.2011

9,04,00,000.00 27.11.2012 8,75,23,000 08.10.2013

9,50,00,000.00

31 Tamil Nadu 08.12.2009 1,97,13,000.00 01.10.2010

1,70,32,000.00 12.06.2012 1,38,30,000.00

12.02.2013 / 25.03.2013

1,14,54,000.00

32 Tripura 12.03.2010 3,54,18,000.00 18.01.2011

2,58,48,000.00 12.02.2013 2,27,70,300.00 10.10.2013

3,50,00,000.00

33 Uttar Pradesh 10.05.2010

47,09,62,000.00 16.03.2012 35,35,05,000.00 22.02.2013

30,48,00,000.00

34 Uttarakhand 17.08.2009 81,65,32,000.00 01.10.2010

82,74,88,000.00 25.06.2012 65,31,60,000.00

02.01.2013 / 10.05.2013

63,46,10,000.00 09.07.2013

61,50,00,000.00

35 West Bengal 08.12.2009 5,29,57,000.00

01.10.2010 / 22.11.2010

6,27,60,000.00 09.03.2012

4,84,36,000.00

Total

9,83,88,30,000.00 10,36,31,87,000.00 -

9,60,86,81,622.00 10,14,73,78,400.00

6,41,30,19,400.00

DAMAGE DUE TO WILD ANIMALS 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2823 SMT. RENUBALA PRDHAN Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of persons killed in the country in the last five years in attack of the wild animals, the details thereof, State-wise and the name of the killer animals in last five years;

(b) the area of standing crops damaged due to the wild animals during the same period, State-wise; (c) the amount of compensation paid to the victims during the same period, State-wise; and (d) whether any steps are taken by Government to reduce of depredation of the wild animals in the

country, the details in specifically/particularly for the State of Odisha? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a),(b)&(c) State-wise details of the number of persons killed in attack of the wild animals, name of killer animals, area of standing crops damaged by wild animals and compensation paid to the victims during last five years, as per the information provided by the State/Union Territory Governments is given in the Annexure-I and II. (d) The following steps have been taken by the Central Government to reduce depredation of wild animals in country including in the State of Odisha:

1. Financial assistance is provided by the Ministry to the State/Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’, ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ inter alia for the following activities:

a. Improvement of the habitat of wild animals by augmenting the availability of food and water

in forest areas to reduce the migration of animals from forests to habitations. b. Construction of physical barriers like boundary walls and solar-powered electric fences in

sensitive areas to prevent wild animal attacks. c. Payment of ex-gratia relief to the victims of wild animal attacks and depredation. d. Development of necessary infrastructure and support facilities for tranquilization of the

identified problematic animals and their relocation to the natural habitat or rehabilitation in rescue centers.

e. Setting up of anti-depredation squads to drive away problematic animals. f. Setting up of patrolling squads to track the movement of wild animals especially elephants

and to inform the local residents about their presence.

2. The Chief Wildlife Wardens of the States/Union Territories are empowered to permit hunting of identified problematic animals under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, if required.

3. Assistance can also be used to launch programmes to sensitize people and create awareness about

the Do's and Don’ts in case of incidents of wild animals scare and attacks.

4. Eco-development activities are undertaken in villages around Protected Areas to elicit the cooperation of communities in management of the Protected Areas, which includes actions to address the grievances of people regarding human-wildlife conflicts.

5. Training programmes are conducted for forest and police staff to address the problems of human-

wildlife conflict.

ANNEXURE-I ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a),(b)AND(c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 2823 REGARDING ‘DAMAGE DUE TO WILD ANIMALS’ BY SHRIMATI RENUBALA PRDHAN DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.2.2014.

Sl. No.

State Number of persons killed Animal involved 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

1. Andhra Pradesh

Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Elephant Nil Nil Nil

2. Arunachal Pradesh

2 Nil Nil 1 Nil Elephant Nil Nil Elephant Nil

3. Assam 74 62 64 86 71 Tiger, Elephant, Leopard, Wolf, Rhino

Tiger, Elephant, Leopard, Wolf Rhino

Elephant, Leopard

Elephant, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo

Elephant, Buffalo

4. Bihar 7 Nil 1 1 3 Tiger, Elephant Wolf

Nil Leopard

Bear Bear

5. Chhattisgarh 66 76 57 68 59 Elephant, Bear Wolf, Wild Boar Jackal/hyena, Bison

Tiger, Elephant Leopard, Bear Wolf, Wild Boar, Jackal/hyena, Bison, Crocodile

Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wild Boar, Jackal/hyena, Bison

Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wild Boar, Jackal/hyena

Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wild Boar, Jackal/hyna

6. Goa 1 Nil Nil Nil Nil Elephant Nil Nil Nil Nil 7. Haryana - - 2 - - - - leopard - - 8. Himachal

Pradesh 5 12 5 3 5 Leopard, Wild

Boar Leopard, Bear, Wild Boar

Leopard, Bear Leopard, Bear

9. Karnataka 31 29 41 22 50 Elephant, Leopard, Bear

Elephant, Leopard, Wild Boar

Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wild Boar

Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wolf, Bison

Tiger, Elephant, Wolf, Wild Boar, Panther, Crocodile

10. Madhya Pradesh

34 63 55 51 Nil Tiger, Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wolf

Tiger, Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wolf




11. Manipur Nil 1 Nil Nil Nil Nil Bear Nil Nil Nil

12. Meghalaya 14 7 7 10 2 Elephant Elephant Elephant, Leopard

Elephant Elephant

13. Mizoram Nil 4 2 Nil Nil Nil Snake Snake Nil Nil 14. Nagaland Nil 3 Nil Nil Nil Nil Elephant Nil Nil Nil 15. Rajasthan 2 5 4 7 7 Leopard, Hyena Tiger, Leopard,

Bear, Hyena Tiger, Leopard Tiger,

Leopard, Bear, Hyena

Tiger, Leopard, Bear, Crocodile

16. Sikkim Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil 17. Tamil Nadu 6 4 11 6 7 Elephant Elephant Elephant Elephant Elephant 18. Tripura Nil Nil Nil Nil 1 Nil Nil Nil Nil Wild Pig/Hog 19. Uttar Pradesh 26 14 21 18 22 Tiger, Elephant,

Leopard, Bear, Wolf, Wild Pig, Hyena, Crocodile, Jackal

Tiger, Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wolf, Crocodile


Tiger, Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wolf, Hyena, Crocodile

Tiger, Elephant, Leopard, Bear, Wolf, Wild Pig, Crocodile

20. Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Nil Nil Nil 2 2 Nil Nil Nil Salt Water Crocodile

Salt Water Crocodile

21. Delhi Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil

ANNEXURE-II ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a),(b)AND(c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 2823 REGARDING ‘DAMAGE DUE TO WILD ANIMALS’ BY SHRIMATI RENUBALA PRDHAN DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.2.2014. Sl. No.

State Area of standing crop damage (Ha/Area) Amount of compensation paid 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

1. Andhra Pradesh

1081 1225 1923.5 788.7 777 46,31,008 25,88,988 40,23,467 39,74,052 26,52,183

2. Arunachal Pradesh

785.4 795.25 528.4 871.23 1404.58 26,00,000 8,49,000 Nil 24,88,000 Nil

3. Assam 3496 (Area in bigha)

3990.5 (Area in bigha)

4617 (Area in bigha)



1,43,03,500 74,05,500 1,08,86,000 2,40,29,800 Nil

4. Bihar 39.523 1 18.676 0 90.299 1,00,000 70,000 1,00,000 1,60,000 5,00,000 5. Chhattisgarh Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil 3,20,46,215 3,24,71,270 3,51,21,394 4,03,36,216 4,95,20,584 6. Goa 17.80.91

07.00 01.50.61 11.67.05 06.50 07.00

04.91.97 10.00

(S) 37.1685 (N) 49.04 1.33.28 24.12.23

17.71 6.87.31 15.75

5,00,000

31,500 20,703

5,000 68,000

4,72,775 2,83,462

7. Haryana Nil Nil 2 1 4 16,700 37,300 31,900 10,100 3,600 8. Himachal

Pradesh Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil

9. Karnataka 5123.6 3264.25 7572.05 2288.29 1900.37 4,79,55,215 4,41,24,337 9,90,11,851 7,32,53,234 13,53,61,233 10. Madhya

Pradesh Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil 16,88,000 27,03,000 39,69,000 55,66,000 20,42,000

11. Manipur Nil Nil Nil Nil 100 Nil Nil Nil Nil 3000 12. Meghalaya 957.299 746.604 437.260 573.386 268.943 23,10,543 32,96,580 32,76,346 53,81,860 61,10,000 13. Mizoram Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil 23,47,000 29,02,000 21,55,000 Nil Nil 14. Nagaland 1081 1225 1923.5 788.7 777 Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil 15. Rajasthan Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil 2,11,000 12,03,000 9,54,000 21,25,000 21,66,000 16. Sikkim 10 40 70 80 52 13,50,000 3,00,000 2,00,000 4,00,000 4,00,000 17. Tamil Nadu 28 34 26 34 39 6,93,500 5,41,000 15,41,500 8,77,700 22,08,350 18. Tripura 5.43 22.37 25.75 34.2 11.325 23,300 70,100 29,385 58,460 41,000 19. Uttar Pradesh 179.748 168.758 203.8796 226.6004 141.02445 12,33,630 10,95,954 15,49,185 16,66,421 16,15,114 20. Andaman &

Nicobar Islands

Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil 21,020 10,400 3,800 2,07,500 2,41,000

21. Delhi Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil

FAST TRACK INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2824 SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of each of the 27 infrastructure projects that Government has asked the Ministry to fast-track;

(b) the reasons for pendency of each of the above 27 projects; and (c) the details of public sector projects and private sector projects out of the above 27 projects?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) and (b) The details of the infrastructure projects that Government asked the Ministry to fast- track are placed at Annexure. The reason for pendency was that forests land diversion was involved in all these projects and Stage –I forest clearance was a prerequisite for grant of environmental clearance (EC) according to the Judgement of Hon’ble Supreme Court dated 6th July, 2011 in l.A. Nos. 1868, 2091, 2225-2227, 2380, 2568 and 2937 in the W.P. (Civil) No. 202 of 1995 in the matter of T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad versus Union of India and others. Further, based on an Interlocutory Application filed by the Ministry in the aforesaid matter, the Hon'ble Supreme Court vide order dated 2nd March, 2013 was pleased to allow the Ministry to make suitable amendments in the procedure of grant of EC to the linear projects such as roads, pipelines and similar others. Accordingly, Ministry decided that pending grant of stage-I approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for non-forestry use of the forest land, ECs may be issued to linear projects, subject to certain conditions. Based on the above, ECs to all the pending Highway projects was granted on 21.03.2013. (c ) All the projects are public sector projects and are being handled by National Highways Authority of India.

Annexure List of infrastructure projects that Government asked the Ministry to fast- track

Sl. No. Name of the Project State

1. F.No. 10-34/2010-IA.III Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of 4 lane to 6 lane of NH-8 from Ahmadabad to Vadodara in the State of Gujarat by M/s. NHAI

Gujarat

2. F.No. 5-10/2009-IA.III Environmental clearance for Widening and Upgradation of existing 2 lane to 4/6 laning of divided carrigeway configuration of Patna to Buxuar section of NH-30 and NH-84f in the State of Bihar and UP by M/s. NHAI

Bihar

3. F.No. 10-2/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement from 2-lane to 4/6-laning of Shivpuri-Dewas Section of NH-3 Package-II from km.236.00 (Chainage 0.00) to km.566.450 (Chainage 332.600) section of NH-3 in the State of Madhya Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Madhya Pradesh

4. F.No. 10-3/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement from 2-lane to 4/6-laning of Jabalpur-Rewa from km. 242.300 to km. 438.222 section of NH-7 in the State of Madhya Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Madhya Pradesh

5. F.No.10-57/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing two lane to two lane with paved shoulders of the section Kanpur to Aligarh of NH-91, from

Uttar Pradesh

Km 141.100 at Aligarh to Km 418.192 at Kanpur , U.P by M/s NHAI 6. F.No.10-31/2011-IA.III

Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing 2 lane to 4 lane of NH-7 and construction of Panagar Bypass including new Connectivity Link road (NH) from NH-7 to NH- 12A in the State of Madhya Pradesh by M/s. NHAI

Madhya Pradesh

7. F.No. 10-79/2010-IA-III Environmental Clearance for widening and rehabilitation of existing two lane to 4/6 lane of Jabalpur-Lakhnadone Section of NH-7 in the State of Madhya Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Madhya Pradesh

8. F.No.10-82/2011-IA.III Environmental Clearance for Rehabilitation and Up-gradation of the existing 2-lane to 4-lane of Lucknow-Sultanpur section of NH-56 Package-I in the State of Uttar Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Uttar Pradesh

9. F.No. 10-80/2010-IA-III Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation and upgrading to 4 lane with paved shoulders configuration of NH-6 from Arang to Sagaipalli in the state of Chhattisgarh by M/s NHAI

Chhattisgarh

10. F.No. 10-36/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & up-gradation of existing 4-lane to 6-lane form Agra (199.660) to Etawah Bypass (Km 323.525) section of NH-2 including Firozabad Bypass in the State of U.P. by M/s NHAI

Uttar Pradesh

11. F.No. 10-83/2010-IA-III Environmental Clearance for widening and rehabilitation of NH Sections in the State of UP under package ‘IVB’ Unnao - Lalganj Section of NH-232A by M/s NHAI

Uttar Pradesh

12. F.No. 10-60/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & up-gradation of 2-line with paved shoulders of NH-231 (Raebareli to Jounpur) and NH-232 (Ambedkar Nagar to Banda) in the State Uttar Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Uttar Pradesh

13. F.No. 10-24/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing carriageway to 4/6 Laning of Meerut-Bulandshahar section (Km 0+0000 to Km 66+482) of NH-235 in Uttar Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Uttar Pradesh

14. F.No. 10-37/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation & up-gradation of existing carriageway of Kishangarh-Udaipur-Ahmedabad section of NH-79A, NH-79, NH-76 and NH-8 for km. 0.830 on NH-79 at Kishangarh and ends near Ahmedabad km 509.259 on NH-8 including Udaipur Bypass in the State of Rajasthan and Gujarat by M/s NHAI

Rajasthan and Gujarat

15. F.No. 10-58/2009-IA-III Environmental clearance for widening and improvement of existing 2-lane to 4/6 laning of Ranchi-Rargaon-Jamshedpur section of NH-33 from km.114.00 to km.277.500 in the State of Jharkhand by M/s NHAI

Jharkhand

16. F.No.10-70/2010 - IA-III Environmental clearance for widening and up gradation of existing carriageway 2-lane with paved shoulders in Jhalawar - Biaora section of NH-12 in the State of Rajasthan by M/s NHAI

Rajasthan

17. F. No.10-99/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for Widening and Improvement of existing 4 lane to 6-lane from Etawah to Chakeri (km.323.475 to km.483.687) section of NH-2 in the State of U.P by M/s NHAI

Uttar Pradesh

18. F.NO. 10-108/2011- IA-III Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing 2-lane to 4/6

Rajasthan

lane of Gomati Chauraha to Udaipur of NH-8 in the State of Rajasthan by M/s NHAI

19. F. No. 10-93/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for Rehabilitation and Upgradation of the existing 2- lane to 4/6-laning of Sultanpur-Varanasi section of NH-56 in the State of Uttar Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Uttar Pradesh

20. F.No. 10-69/2010 – IA-III Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing 2-lane to 4- lane in the section of Obedullahaganj – Hoshangabad – Itarsi – Betul of NH-69 in the State of Madhya Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Madhya Pradesh

21. F.No. 10-117/2011-IA-III Environmental Clearance for rehabilitation and upgradation to 2 lane with paved shoulder at Partapgarh - Padi section of NH-113 (km 80.000 to km 180.000) in the State of Rajasthan by M/s NHAI

Rajasthan

22. F.No 10-77/2010-IA-III Environmental Clearance for widening and improvement of existing carriageway to 4/6 laning of Rampur to Kathgodam Section of NH – 87 from Km 0.000 to Km 88.000 in the States of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand by NHAI

Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand

23. F.No.10-70/2011-IA-III EC for 4 laning with dual carriageway configuration for Km 50.000 to 209.500 (Patiala – Sangrur – Bamala Bathinda Section) of NH – 64 in Punjab State by M/s Central Works Division, PWD, B&R, Patiala

Punjab

24. F.No. 10-32/2011-IA-III EC for rehabilitation and upgrading of existing 2 lane to 4 lane from Solapur to Yedeshi section of NH-211 in the State of Maharashtra and from solapur to Sangareddy section of NH-9 including solapur bypass in the State of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh by M/s NHAI

Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh

Status: Environmental clearance was granted on 21.03.2013.

CONSTITUTION OF CAMPA 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2825 DR. PRABHAKAR KORE Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state :

(a) whether it is a fact that Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) is constituted by the Union Government, if so, the details thereof;

(b) the total fund deposited in the CAMPA, the details thereof; and (c) whether the fund under the CAMPA is utilized to achieve its objectives, if so, the details thereof, if not,

the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c) following the judgment dated 29th/ 30th October 2002 of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in Writ Petition (Civil) No.202 of 1995 titled T N Godavarman Thirumalpad Vs Union of India & Ors., a notification dated 23rd April 2004 was issued constituting the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). Observing that the CAMPA as thus constituted had not till then become operational, the Hon’ble Court vide their Order dated 5th May 2006 constituted the Ad-hoc CAMPA. Further, by their Order dated 10th July 2009, the Hon’ble Court inter-alia while approving the release of funds to the extent of about

Rs.1,000 crores per annum for the next five years in proportion of 10% of the principal amount pertaining to the respective States/ UTs, also approved the State CAMPA Guidelines which provide for optimal utilization of the funds thus released out of the corpus deposited in lieu of diversion of forest land for non-forestry use, under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980. A statement of accruals in the State CAMPA accounts as on 31st March 2013, net of releases, is at Annexure ‘A’, and the details of amounts released to various State CAMPAs, is at Annexure ‘B’. Annexure 'A' referred to in the answer to Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question. No.2825 answered on 20th February, 2014 , by Dr. Prabhakar Kore, Re. : 'Constitution of CAMPA'

Sl. No. Name of State /UT Interest accrued

1 ANDAMAN & NICOBAR CAMPA 105,819,062.00 136,367,897.00 2 ANDHRA PRADESH CAMPA 17,874,308,999.00 6,197,020,177.00 3 ARUNACHAL PRADESH CAMPA 9,333,241,813.00 1,686,624,724.00 4 ASSAM CAMPA 2,452,255,213.00 496,965,401.00 5 BIHAR CAMPA 2,225,828,034.00 419,402,047.00 6 CHANDIGARH CAMPA 17,615,041.00 9,832,226.00 7 CHHATTISGARH CAMPA 22,048,703,872.00 7,428,471,097.00 8 DADRA NAGAR HAVELI CAMPA 53,697,831.00 15,149,259.00 9 DAMAN AND DIU CAMPA 7,728,100.00 504,759.00 10 DELHI CAMPA 318,372,155.00 80,616,120.00 11 GOA CAMPA 1,236,202,262.00 551,973,263.00 12 GUJARAT CAMPA 5,639,597,884.00 1,523,226,581.00 13 HARYANA CAMPA 3,952,474,535.00 1,087,728,424.00 14 HIMACHAL PRADESH CAMPA 10,857,410,430.00 2,544,529,307.00 15 JAMMU & KASHMIR 1,245,577,739.00 39,088,953.00 16 JHARKHAND CAMPA 19,004,779,685.00 5,145,148,354.00 17 KARNATAKA CAMPA 6,993,527,299.00 2,880,855,822.00 18 KERALA CAMPA 266,130,721.00 181,708,199.00 19 MADHYA PRADESH CAMPA 14,033,785,665.00 3,518,590,580.00 20 MAHARASHTRA CAMPA 15,472,477,018.00 4,271,541,205.00 21 MANIPUR CAMPA 941,960,156.00 85,782,800.00 22 MEGHALAYA CAMPA 1,040,006,450.00 181,625,127.00 23 MIZORAM CAMPA 663,265,819.00 23,054,785.00 24 NAGALAND 15,622.00 1,962.00 25 ORISSA CAMPA 35,269,865,692.00 9,030,185,011.00 26 PUNJAB CAMPA 4,338,158,913.00 1,553,347,013.00 27 RAJASTHAN CAMPA 6,970,642,908.00 2,198,860,293.00 28 SIKKIM CAMPA 1,621,412,833.00 428,445,101.00 29 TAMIL NADU CAMPA 443,740,645.00 90,690,759.00 30 TRIPURA CAMPA 761,115,710.00 203,641,813.00 31 UTTAR PRADESH CAMPA 6,143,685,333.00 2,484,320,349.00

32 UTTARAKHAND CAMPA 12,037,250,320.00 4,281,109,822.00

33 WEST BENGAL CAMPA 804,442,542.00 296,175,232.00

Total 204,175,096,298.00 59,672,215,475.00

Annexure 'B' referred to in the answer to Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No.2825 answered on 20th February, 2014, by Dr Prabhakar Kore, re.: 'Constitution of CAMPA'.

Sl. No. State/UT 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14

Date Amount (in Rs.) Date Amount (in Rs.) Date Amount (in

Rs.) Date Amount (in Rs.) Date Amount (in Rs.)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 Andaman & Nicobar

Islands 28.08.2009 10,990,000.00 01.10.2010 7,869,000.00 18.06.2012 5,779,000.00

2 Andhra Pradesh 28.08.2009 897,832,000.00 01.10.2010 1,207,444,000.00 23.08.2011 1,185,700,000.00 06.10.2012 1,196,039,000.00 09.07.2013 920,000,000.00

3 Arunachal Pradesh 03.04.2010 163,676,000.00 22.11.2010 177,882,000.00

08.09.2011 / 25.10.2011 / 09.11.2011 / 29.11.2011

411,900,000.00 02.01.2013 117,613,000.00

4 Assam 17.08.2009 67,174,000.00 01.10.2010 104,487,000.00 13.02.2013 150,592,100.00

5 Bihar 20.11.2009 77,300,000.00 18.01.2011 86,674,000.00 25.11.2011 80,400,000.00 02.01.2013 84,650,000.00 17.02.2014 108,019,400.00

6 Chandigarh 17.08.2009 1,765,000.00 01.10.2010 1,296,000.00 19.06.2013 1,000,000.00

7 Chhattisgarh 17.08.2009 1,232,135,000.00 01.10.2010 1,341,066,000.00 08.09.2011 995,439,000.00 21.08.2012 1,143,800,000.00 09.07.2013 / 22.01.2014 1,100,000,000.00

8 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 04.09.2009 1,682,000.00 28.10.2011 1,536,000.00

9 Daman & Diu

10 Delhi 21.01.2010 18,471,000.00 18.01.2011 13,991,000.00 02.07.2013 10,100,000.00 03.09.2013 20,086,000.00

11 Goa 17.08.2009 121,197,000.00 01.10.2010 102,468,000.00 17.02.2014 85,500,000.00 17.02.2014 80,500,000.00 17.02.214 65,000,000.00

12 Gujarat 19.08.2009 249,647,000.00 01.10.2010 291,568,000.00 08.09.2011 263,000,000.00 09.11.2012 324,117,000.00 29.10.2013 280,000,000.00

13 Haryana 17.08.2009 191,141,000.00 01.10.2010 188,909,000.00 11.06.2012 164,500,000.00 09.07.2013 160,000,000.00

14 Himachal Pradesh 21.08.2009 366,771,000.00 01.10.2010 421,656,000.00 23.08.2011 / 09.12.2011 571,262,400.00

02.01.2013 /

11.02.2013 /

30.03.2013

524,000,000.00 02.11.2013 535,000,000.00

15 Jammu & Kashmir 29.11.2012 237,835,000.00

16 Jharkhand 12.03.2010 950,028,000.00 01.10.2010 1,031,622,000.00 24.11.2011 624,989,300.00 02.01.2013

/ 27.06.2013

959,600,000.00 20.11.2013 975,000,000.00

17 Karnataka 19.08.2009 585,573,000.00 01.10.2010 509,160,000.00 30.08.2011 / 09.09.2011 415,700,000.00 06.10.2012 437,200,000.00 10.10.2013 345,000,000.00

18 Kerala 12.03.2010 17,509,000.00 26.03.2013 13,652,000.00

19 Lakshadweep 20 Madhya Pradesh 17.08.2009 530,482,000.00 01.10.2010 509,656,000.00 09.01.2012 535,209,000.00 27.06.2013 615,000,000.00

21 Maharashtra 22.02.2010 893,549,000.00 18.01.2011 854,893,000.00 16.11.2011 826,300,000.00 06.10.2012 782,123,000.00 17.05.2013 / 27.06.2013 780,000,000.00

22 Manipur 08.12.2009 7,456,000.00 01.10.2010 13,350,000.00 11.06.2012 19,134,000.00 22.08.2013 19,729,000.00

23 Meghalaya 20.04.2010 967,000.00 20.11.2013 697,000.00

24 Mizoram 05.03.2013 10,738,000.00 22.08.2013 8,214,000.00

25 Nagaland

26 Orissa 21.08.2009 1,310,618,000.00 18.01.2011 1,401,753,000.00 23.08.2011 / 04.06.2012 1,760,910,050.00 30.11.2012 2,058,244,000.00

27 Pondicherry

28 Punjab 08.12.2009 330,547,000.00 01.10.2010 265,215,000.00 16.09.2011 / 21.09.2011 220,783,872.00 27.08.2012 193,118,000.00 09.07.2013 215,000,000.00

29 Rajasthan 07.01.2010 325,908,000.00 18.01.2011 420,698,000.00 11.11.2011 318,913,000.00 25.02.2013 374,298,000.00 20.11.2013 345,000,000.00

30 Sikkim 17.08.2009 80,092,000.00 01.10.2010

/ 22.11.2010

102,334,000.00 02.09.2011 / 12.10.2011 90,400,000.00 27.11.2012 8,75,23,000 08.10.2013 95,000,000.00

31 Tamil Nadu 08.12.2009 19,713,000.00 01.10.2010 17,032,000.00 12.06.2012 13,830,000.00 12.02.2013

/ 25.03.2013

11,454,000.00

32 Tripura 12.03.2010 35,418,000.00 18.01.2011 25,848,000.00 12.02.2013 22,770,300.00 10.10.2013 35,000,000.00

33 Uttar Pradesh 10.05.2010 470,962,000.00 16.03.2012 353,505,000.00 22.02.2013 304,800,000.00

34 Uttarakhand 17.08.2009 816,532,000.00 01.10.2010 827,488,000.00 25.06.2012 653,160,000.00 02.01.2013

/ 10.05.2013

634,610,000.00 09.07.2013 615,000,000.00

35 West Bengal 08.12.2009 52,957,000.00 01.10.2010

/ 22.11.2010

62,760,000.00 09.03.2012 48,436,000.00

Total 9,838,830,000.00 10,363,187,000.00 9,608,681,622.00 10,147,378,400.00 6,413,019,400.00

BURGEONING WASTE MANAGEMENT PROBLEM 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2826 SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) the action plan to address the burgeoning waste management problem in the country; (b) if not addressed properly, whether it would become a health and environment crisis in the country;

and (c) if so, the action plan of Government to fast address the above issue?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c): As per the information received from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), all the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) of Union Territories have been requested by CPCB to issue directions to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to prepare time-bound action plans for management of municipal solid waste including plastic waste. Guidelines for formulation of such plans have been circulated to all SPCBs and PCCs by CPCB. AVAILABLE DATA ON AIR QUALITY 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2827 SHRI AVINASH RAI KHANNA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact in the light of recent press reports that there is no authentic data available on Air Quality in the country;

(b) whether it is also a fact that we do not follow the international parameters to define our air quality;

and (c) the steps that are being taken to improve the air quality in our cities?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b) The National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) have been revisited and revised NAAQS incorporating 12 pollutants, such as Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), PM10, PM2.5,Ammonia (NH3), Benzene (C6H6), lead, etc. have been notified in November, 2009 along with method of monitoring while considering WHO guidelines, USEPA, Europeon Union practices, etc. Methods of measurement are same or equivalent to international methods. Regular calibration of air quality monitoring equipment is undertaken by respective State Pollution Control Boards/Central Pollution Control Board and National Environment Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur to maintain the quality of data. (c). Various steps have been taken to contain air pollution in the cities which, inter-alia, include strict implementation of emission norms in polluting industries; supply of improved diesel and gasoline; promotion of mass rapid transport; implementation of city- specific ambient air improvement programme for 17 identified cities;registering BS III/IV compliant two/three wheelers and cars in select cities; use of gaseous fuel in bus, taxies, and autos for public transport; Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate system for in-use vehicles; etc. REVISION OF POLLUTION STANDARDS FOR THERMAL POWER PLANTS 20th February, 2014

RSQ 2828 SHRI C.M. RAMESH Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government proposes to revise the pollution standards for Thermal Power Plants spread across the country given the fact that our power generation is squarely dependant on coal based power generation, if so, the details thereof; and

(b) if not, the reasons therefor? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) & (b). As a follow up of decision taken in meetings of Corporate Responsibility for Environment Protection (CREP) in 2003, more stringent Emission Standards, i.e., norms for particulate matter for coal based Thermal Power Plants (TPPs) are prescribed since 2004 to new as well as existing TPPs seeking expansion. The longer chimney height is prescribed to new as well as existing TPPs considering expected Sulphur Dioxide emissions. Besides, the provision on use of beneficiated coal has been revisited and stricter provision has been notified so as to reduce dust pollution in ambient air vide a Gazette notification, dated 2nd January, 2014. GRAM SABHA'S CLEARANCE FOR DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2829 SHRI JAGAT PRAKASH NADDA Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that by way of executive instructions the requirement of obtaining clearance from Gram Sabhas for diversion of forest land has been made mandatory, if so, under what provision of law;

(b) whether Government is aware that the Forest Rights act provides that for specified projects where forest land to be diverted is less that one hectare, permission for diversion shall be given if the Gram Sabha gives the NOC; and

(c) if so, then by prescribing the same procedure for all cases of diversion of forest land, will permission be invariably be given, if the Gram Sabha gives the NOC, if not then why has this requirement been stipulated for which there is no provision in law?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c) Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) in 2009 observed that even though the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 became effective from 1st January 2008, the proposals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 were being received from different States and Union Territories with the submission that the settlement of rights under Forest Rights Act, 2006 (FRA) will be completed later on. Accordingly, to formulate unconditional proposals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, MoEF vide letter dated 3rd August 2009 informed the States/ UTs that the State/ UT Governments are, wherever the process of settlement of rights under the FRA has been completed or currently under process, required to enclose evidences for having initiated and completed the process, especially among other sections, Sections 3 (1) (i), 3 (1) (e) and 4 (5) of the FRA. These enclosures of evidence shall be in the form of following:

(a) A letter from the State Government certifying that the complete process for identification and settlement of rights under the FRA has been carried out for the entire forest area proposed for diversion, with a record of all consultations and meetings held;

(b) A letter from the State Government certifying that proposals for such diversion (with full details of the project and its implementation, in vernacular/ local language) have been placed before each concerned Gram Sabha of forest-dwellers, who are eligible under the FRA;

(c) A letter from each of the concerned Gram Sabhas, indicating that all formalities/ processes under the FRA have been carried out, and that they have given their consent to the proposed diversion and the

compensatory and ameliorative measures, if any, having understood the purposes and details of the proposed diversion.

(d) A letter from the State Government certifying that the diversion of forest land for facilities managed by the Government as required under section 3(2) of the FRA have been completed and that the Gram Sabha have consented to it.

(e) A letter from the State Government certifying that discussions and decisions on such proposals had taken place only when there was a quorum of minimum 50% of members of the Gram Sabha present;

(f) Obtaining the written consent or rejection of the Gram Sabha to the proposal; and (g) A letter from the State Government certifying that the rights of Primitive Tribal Groups and Pre-

Agricultural Communities, where applicable, have been specifically safeguarded as section 3(1) (e) of the FRA.

(h) Any other aspect having bearing on operationalization of the FRA. It has also been indicated in the MoEF’s said letter dated 3.8.2009 that the State/UT Governments, where process of settlement of rights under the FRA is yet to begin, are required to enclose evidences supporting that settlement of rights under FRA 2006 will be initiated and completed before the final approval for the proposal. The MoEF vide letter dated 5th February 2013 informed the all State/UT Governments that proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for projects like construction of roads, canals, laying of pipelines/ optical fibers and transmission lines etc. where linear diversion of use of forest land in several villages are involved, unless recognised rights of PTG/ PAC are being affected, are exempted from the requirement of obtaining consent of the concerned Gram Sabha(s) as stipulated in clause (c) read with clause (b), (e) and (f) in second para of this Ministry’s said letter dated 3rd August 2009. Sub-section (2) of section 3 (2) of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 provides that notwithstanding anything contained in the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, the Central Government shall provides for diversion of forest land, for facilities, as per details given in the said sub- section, managed by the Government which involves felling of trees not exceeding seventy-five trees per hectare. The said sub-section further provides that such diversion of forest land shall be allowed only if, the forest land to be diverted for the purpose mentioned in this sub-section is less than one hectare in each case; and the clearance of such developmental projects shall be subject to the condition that the same is recommended by the Gram Sabha. Decision on proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land is taken on merit of each case. Obtaining consent of Gram sabha or Gram Sabhas, wherever required, is one of the requirements for grant of approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose. CONCERN OVER FAST DEPLETING GREEN COVER 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2830 SHRI BHARATSINH PRABHATSINH PARMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether environment activists have voiced concerns over the fast depleting green cover in the Himalayas and demanded steps to protect it from both ecological and tourism point of view; and

(b) if so, response of Government thereon? MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) The Ministry has not received any such reports. Forest Survey of India has been mapping and assessing biennially the Country’s forest cover using remote sensing technology since 1987. As per the India State of Forest Report-2011, Arunachal Pradesh is the only Himalayan State in which a decline of 74 Square kilometer of forest cover, as compared to the last assessment of 2009, has been reported. (b) Ministry provides financial assistance to State/Union Territory Governments for afforestation as well as protection of existing forest under various Schemes. Afforestation in the country is taken up under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes such as Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), National Bamboo Mission (NBM), 13th Finance Commission and also under different State Plan/ Non- Plan Schemes including externally aided projects. National Afforestation Programme (NAP) of the Ministry of Environment & Forests is a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme for afforestation and tree plantation and eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in the

country. The Scheme is being implemented through a decentralized mechanism of State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) at State level, Forest Development Agency (FDA) at Forest Division level and Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at Village levels. An amount of Rs.2500 crores has been approved for NAP in the 12th Five Year Plan. In addition funds are also provided for forest protection under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme-Intensification of Forest Management. REPRESENTATIONS BY STATE GOVERNMENTS ON CRZ NOTIFICATIONS 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2831 SHRI BHARATSINH PRABHATSINH PARMAR Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether any representations were made by State Governments to Central Government on CRZ Notification 2011 for the Ports and Harbour;

(b) if so, the response of Government of India thereon; and (c) whether concerns of State Governments have been addressed by Government?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to (c) The Government of Gujarat requested to consider projects for Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance in low and medium eroding coastal stretches based on rapid Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) instead of comprehensive EIA Report. A rapid EIA may not address all the environmental concerns in the low and medium eroding stretches of the coast. Therefore, as per the procedure prescribed for seeking prior clearance under the CRZ Notification, 2011, all project proposals in stretches classified as low and medium eroding as well as stable coasts shall be accompanied by comprehensive EIA studies. This requirement is uniformly applicable throughout the country. To conserve and protect such coastal stretches, promote development through sustainable manner based on scientific principles, it is important that comprehensive EIA studies are carried out and Environment Management Plans worked out accordingly before considering proposals in such stretches. Further, Ministry of Environment and Forests before finalizing the CRZ Notification, 2011 had a detailed review through an Expert Committee headed by Prof. M.S. Swaminathan and extensive consultations were held with various stakeholders, including the State Governments. The opinions and suggestions of various stakeholders were taken into consideration while finalizing the CRZ Notification, 2011. NEW FOREST CONSERVATION RULES 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2832 SMT. GUNDU SUDHARANI Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that new Forest Conservation Rules give all powers to bureaucracy in place of Gram Sabhas with regard to settlement of rights involved in projects that require diversion of forest land, if so, the reasons therefor;

(b) whether it does not tantamount to violation of Forest Rights Act; and (c) if so, in what manner Ministry is planning to protect the rights of forest dwellers?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M. VEERAPPA MOILY)

(a) No Sir. The draft Forest (Conservation) Amendment Rules, 2014 provides that on receipt of a copy of the proposal seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose, the District Collector shall complete the process for settlement of rights in accordance with the provisions of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, obtain consent of the Gram Sabha or Gram Sabhas, wherever required, and forward his findings in the Format specified in this regard to the Conservator of Forests. The District Collector, in capacity of the Chairperson of the District Level Committee, as provided in Rule 7 of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Rules, 2007, is required to complete the process for settlement of rights in accordance with the provisions of the afore-mentioned Rules. (b) & (c) In view of reply to part (a) above, reply to parts (b) and (c) does not arise. POLICY ON G.M. CROPS 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2833 SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has finalised its policy on GM Corps; (b) if so, the details thereof? (c) whether any pilot study has been conducted on the above; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M.VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) to d) The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) set up under Ministry of Environment and Forests under Rules, 1989 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The GEAC is following a policy of case by case event based approval in case of Genetically Modified (GM) foods or food crops. In view of the various concerns, introduction of any new GM food /food crop is preceded by a careful analysis of risks and evaluation of long term benefits for which extensive rules and guidelines have been framed by the GEAC/Review Committee of Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) under Department of Biotechnology for evaluating environmental and health safety impacts of genetically modified organisms. Any company involved in the development of GM crops has to undertake extensive biosafety assessment which includes environmental safety assessment as well as food and feed safety even if it has been approved for commercial cultivation in other countries. The environmental safety assessment includes studies on pollen escape out-crossing, aggressiveness and weediness, effect of the gene on non-target organisms, presence of the protein in soil and its effect on soil micro-flora, confirmation of the absence of Terminator Gene and baseline susceptibility studies. The food and feed safety assessment studies include composition analysis, allergenicity and toxicological studies and feeding studies on fish, chicken, cows and buffaloes. In case the transgenic crop is found to be not suitable for human consumption, the product is rejected during the trial stage itself. There is a proposal to establish an independent ‘Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India (BRAI)’ for the regulation of GM Crops through an Act of Parliament, to promote the safe and responsible use of modern biotechnology by enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of regulatory procedures including the testing of GM crops for harmful effect, if any. The BRAI Bill has been approved by the Cabinet on August 8, 2011. The BRAI Bill has been introduced in the Lok Sabha Secretariat on April 22, 2013 and is presently under consideration of department related Standing Committee of Parliament on Science, Technology and Environment. GM FOOD CROPS UNDER PIPELINE 20th February, 2014 RSQ 2834 SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY


(a) the details of GM food crops that are under pipeline for field trials; (b) the details of GM food crops being produced for use of the people; and (c) the reasons that Government is a divided house on field trials of GM crops?

MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (DR. M.VEERAPPA MOILY) (a) The GM food crops which are under pipeline for field trials are rice, castor, wheat, maize, tomato, groundnut, potato, sorghum, okra, brinjal, mustard, watermelon, papaya, sugarcane, banana, pigeon pea, Sorghum and chickpea. (b) No. GM Food crop has been approved by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) so far. (c) The Government is not divided house on field trials of GM Crops. Union of India is in a view that the field trials are necessary to generate biosafety data and should continue. A common affidavit is to be filed in Hon’ble Supreme Court signed by Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Science and Technology.

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