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Environment and Forests on Environment: 2012-13

Q. No. Q. Type Date Ans by Ministry Members Title of the Questions Subject Specific Political State Party Representative *3 Starred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Parimal Lion as National Animal Wildlife IND. Nathwani Management *5 Starred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Viplove Crops and human lives Wildlife INC Himachal Thakur damaged by wild animals Management Pradesh Agriculture *8 Starred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Ramdas Violations in clearing Forest BJP Agarwal projects dangerous to Conservation forests EIA Environmental Conservation 7 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Rajeev Relocation of elephant Wildlife IND. Chandrasekhar herds in Hassan district, Management Karnataka 8 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Jai Prakash Pollution by Okhla Pollution BJP Jharkhand Narayan Singh Waste-to-Energy plant Health and Sanitation 9 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Rudra High level of pollution in Pollution BJP Narayan Pany Angul- district of Odisha 10 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Vijay Combating global Climate Change INC Jawaharlal Darda warming and Meteorology Alternative Technologies Energy Studies Agriculture 11 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Bimla Assistance to HP under Wildlife BJP Himachal Kashyap Sood Integrated Development Management Pradesh of Wildlife Scheme 12 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Tarun Vijay Decline in forest cover of Forest BJP the country Conservation

13 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Census of tigers Wildlife SP Management 14 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Nandi Environmental clearance EIA INC Yellaiah to road project in AP 15 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Nandi Environmental clearance EIA INC Andhra Pradesh Yellaiah for NH-16 from Nizamabad to Jagdalpur Wildlife Management Forest Conservation 16 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri H.K. Dua National Mission for Water NOM. Nominated Green Management Forest Conservation Climate Change and Meteorology 17 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Dr. Janardhan Pending irrigation Agriculture NCP Maharashtra Waghmare projects in Maharashtra Water Management 18 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Kanimozhi Environmental Pollution DMK performance of the country Environmental Education, NGOs and Media 19 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Relaxation of coastal EIA NCP Maharashtra regulations zone norms 20 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Dr. T. Subbarami Implementation of Freshwater and INC Andhra Pradesh Reddy National Wetland Marine Conservation Programme Conservation 21 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Assessment of progress of Climate Change BJP Maharashtra NAPCC and Meteorology 22 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Y. S. Construction of housing Freshwater and TDP Andhra Pradesh Chowdary projects on wetlands Marine Conservation 23 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Baishnab Increase in lion Wildlife BJD Odisha Parida population in Gir Management

24 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Govindrao Ban on tourism in core Wildlife NCP Maharashtra Adik inviolate areas reserved Management for tigers 25 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Ambeth Reservation in promotion Miscellaneous BSP Uttar Pradesh Rajan for all categories 26 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh Decline in forest cover Forest BJP Conservation 27 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri P. Rajeeve Environmental clearance EIA CPI(M) to new thermal power plants Energy Studies 28 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Viplove Violation of environment EIA INC Himachal Thakur and forest clearance Pradesh norms Forest Conservation 29 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Viplove Environmental clearance EIA INC Himachal Thakur norms for cement and Pradesh hydropower projects Forest Conservation 30 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Natuji Halaji Transfer of funds to Forest BJP Thakor Gujarat State CAMPA Conservation 31 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Naznin Pollution of rivers in Pollution INC Faruque Assam 32 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Naznin Study on impact of Agriculture INC Assam Faruque climate change Climate Change and Meteorology 33 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Parshottam Urban garbage waste Pollution BJP Gujarat Khodabhai management system Rupala 34 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Dr. Yogendra P. Nira-Deoghar Project at Forest NCP Maharashtra Trivedi Satara district, Conservation Maharashtra 35 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Govindrao Conservation of Bil Freshwater and NCP Maharashtra Adik Akbarpur wetlands Marine Conservation 36 Unstarred 13-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh Conservation of Son birds Wildlife BJP Madhya Pradesh

in Madhya Pradesh Management Financial assistance to Wildlife *84 Starred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. T. Ratna Bai zoos in the country Management INC Andhra Pradesh Shri Prakash Environment clearance to *95 Starred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Javadekar hydro project in Pune EIA BJP Maharashtra Loss of forest land for Shri Rama establishing new Environmental 628 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia industries Conservation INC Odisha EIA Forest Conservation Freshwater and Marine Conservation Energy Studies Agriculture Water Management Smt. Naznin Utilization of forest land Forest 629 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Faruque in Assam by industries Conservation INC Assam Shri Anil Madhav Tropical cyclones due to 630 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Dave air pollution Pollution BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Balavant alias Bal Apte BJP Maharashtra Information relating to 631 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri project clearance website EIA SS Maharashtra Shri Baishnab Parida BJD Odisha Shri Bharatsinh Prabhatsinh Steep rise in river 632 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Parmar pollution Pollution BJP Gujarat Shri Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala BJP Gujarat Shri M.P. Safe disposal of toxic 633 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Achuthan waste in FTL and CFL Pollution CPI Kerala Health and Shri R.C. Singh Sanitation CPI West

Conservation of wetland 634 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Sanjay Raut in Greater Noida EIA SS Maharashtra Freshwater and Shri Baishnab Marine Parida Conservation BJD Odisha Compensation for Environment and 635 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Prabhat Jha destroyed forests to MP Forest Trade BJP Madhya Pradesh Forest Smt. Conservation BJP Karnataka Sighting of Tigers outside protected area in Wildlife 636 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Tarun Vijay Uttarakhand Management BJP Uttarakhand Performance of sewage Shri Parimal treatment plants in 637 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Nathwani different cities Pollution IND. Jharkhand Pending cases for Shri Natuji Halaji environmental clearance 638 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Thakor from Gujarat EIA BJP Gujarat Projects pending for Shri Balavant environment clearance 639 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests alias Bal Apte from States EIA BJP Maharashtra World Bank aid for tiger Wildlife 640 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. T. Ratna Bai conservation programme Management INC Andhra Pradesh Environment Impact Assessment to industrial 641 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Kanimozhi units EIA DMK Tamil Nadu Shri Ambeth Filling up of backlog 642 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Rajan vacancies Miscellaneous BSP Uttar Pradesh Findings of the Shri Jai Prakash Committee on Jindal 643 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Narayan Singh Ecoplis Project Pollution BJP Jharkhand Shri Raghunandan Schemes for controlling 644 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Sharma pollution Pollution BJP Madhya Pradesh Freshwater and Marine Conservation Measures for checking Dr. Gyan Prakash desertification in the Forest 645 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Pilania country Conservation BJP Rajasthan

Disaster Management Danger to wildlife Wildlife 646 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh corridor in Rajasthan Management BJP Madhya Pradesh Freshwater and Dr. Gyan Prakash Marine 647 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Pilania Wetlands in the country Conservation BJP Rajasthan Conference of BRICS Environmental countries on global Education, NGOs 648 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri N. K. Singh climate change regime and Media JD(U) Climate Change and Meteorology Mandatory emission 649 Unstarred 20-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri A.A. Jinnah trading system for airlines Pollution DMK Tamil Nadu Climate Change and Meteorology Measures for tackling e- *188 Starred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Tarun Vijay waste Pollution BJP Uttarakhand Impact of mobile phone Shri Moinul tower radiation on birds 1405 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Hassan and insects Pollution CPI(M) Wildlife Management Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Shri M.P. Delay in NOC for GM 1406 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Achuthan crops trial Biosafety CPI Kerala Agriculture Pending projects of Smt. Smriti Zubin Gujarat State Forest Forest 1407 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Irani Development Agency Conservation BJP Gujarat Shri Natuji Halaji Climate Change Thakor and Meteorology BJP Gujarat Shri Shivanand Forest 1408 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Tiwari Forest Report, 2011 Conservation JD(U) Bihar Shri BJP Rajasthan 1409 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Y. S. Eco-development Forest TDP Andhra Pradesh

Chowdary activities in the country Conservation Environmental Conservation Proposal for new Hubli- 1410 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Dr. Ankola railway line EIA IND. Karnataka Forest Conservation Dr. Gyan Prakash Road-Map for pollution 1411 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Pilania free rivers Pollution BJP Rajasthan Freshwater and Marine Conservation Health and Sanitation Forest land for Shri K.N. infrastructure Environmental 1412 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Balagopal development projects Conservation CPI(M) Kerala Forest Conservation Environment and Forest Trade Agriculture Water Management Shri Rajiv Pratap Pollution caused by 1413 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Rudy industries Pollution BJP Bihar Shri G. N. Construction of tunnel in Jammu & 1414 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Ratanpuri Pir Panjal EIA J&KNC Shri Nand Kumar Wildlife 1415 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Sai Animal Welfare Fortnight Management BJP Shri Om Prakash Conservation of forest Forest 1416 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Mathur land Conservation BJP Rajasthan Dr. Janardhan Level of air pollution in 1417 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Waghmare Pollution NCP Maharashtra Shri Natuji Halaji Environment clearance of 1418 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Thakor category B projects EIA BJP Gujarat Pollution 1419 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri Mohammed Installation of Uniform Pollution IND. Uttar Pradesh

Adeeb Air Quality Information System in Delhi Installation of FGD in coal based thermal power 1420 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Shri stations Energy Studies INC Chhattisgarh Pollution EIA Shri Dhiraj Prasad Forest development Forest 1421 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Sahu proposals from the States Conservation INC Jharkhand Shri Kanjibhai Forest 1422 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Patel Green credit scheme Conservation BJP Gujarat Environmental Conservation Dr. Chandan Forest 1423 Unstarred 27-Mar-12 Environment and Forests Mitra Decline in forests cover Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Environmental clearance *265 Starred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Prasad to POSCO Project EIA BJP Bihar Forest Conservation Freshwater and Shri Thaawar Purification of major Marine *268 Starred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Chand Gehlot rivers in the country Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Baishnab Mutli-crore forestry scam Forest *276 Starred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Parida in Conservation BJD Odisha Environment and Forest Trade Withdrawal of power Shri Natuji Halaji from States for CRZ *277 Starred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Thakor clearance EIA BJP Gujarat Shri Rajiv Pratap Decrease in the forest Forest 2026 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Rudy cover in the country Conservation BJP Bihar Establishment of Shri Avinash recycling units for 2027 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Pande mercuric toxic waste Pollution INC Maharashtra Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Health and Sanitation

Energy Studies Environmental clearance Shri Avinash for Versova-Bandra Sea 2028 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Pande Link project EIA INC Maharashtra Environmental Conservation Shri Nandi Diversion of forest land Forest 2029 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Yellaiah for Owk reservoir Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh Water Management Smt. Maya Intensification of Forest Environment and 2030 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Singh Management & NPV Forest Trade BJP Madhya Pradesh Forest Conservation Environmental clearance Shri Nandi for diverting forest land in 2031 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Yellaiah AP EIA INC Andhra Pradesh Forest Conservation Wildlife Management Relocation of villages in Forest 2032 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh reserved areas in M.P. Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Dr. E.M. Sudarsana Review of environment Environmental 2033 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Natchiappan policy Conservation INC Tamil Nadu Commercial release of 2034 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Shri Sanjay Raut Bt.Brinjal Agriculture SS Maharashtra Biosafety Loss of forest cover due Shri Raghunandan to globalization and Forest 2035 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Sharma industrialization Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Environment and Forest Trade Smt. Smriti Zubin Human attacks on Wildlife 2036 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Irani leopards in Assam Management BJP Gujarat Increase in pollution level 2037 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Shri Sanjay Raut in Konkan Region Pollution SS Maharashtra

Smt. Naznin Air pollution in the 2038 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Faruque country Pollution INC Assam Approval for conservation of biodiversity rich areas Environmental 2039 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Prof. P.J. Kurien in Kerala Conservation INC Kerala Freshwater and Marine Conservation Shri Dhiraj Prasad Development of CFR on Forest 2040 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Sahu priority basis Conservation INC Jharkhand Environment and Forest Trade Shri V.P.Singh Conservation of tigers in Wildlife 2041 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Badnore Management BJP Rajasthan Delay in development Forest 2042 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Shri Piyush Goyal projects in Maharashtra Conservation BJP Maharashtra Environment and Forest Trade Prof. Saif-ud-Din Wildlife Jammu & 2043 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Soz Research on wild life Management INC Kashmir Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Freshwater and National River Marine 2044 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Shri Prabhat Jha Conservation Authority Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Pollution Shri Dhiraj Prasad Stagnation in Indian Forest 2045 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Sahu Forest Service Conservation INC Jharkhand Disappearance of Dr. Yogendra P. forests in Environmental 2046 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Trivedi Mumbai Conservation NCP Maharashtra EIA Forest Conservation Shri Bharatsinh Prabhatsinh Climate Change 2047 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Parmar Study on climate change and Meteorology BJP Gujarat Shri Parshottam Environmental BJP Gujarat

Khodabhai Education, NGOs Rupala and Media Guidelines for urban 2048 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Dr. T.N. Seema waste management Pollution CPI(M) Kerala Levy of local Shri Baishnab conservation cess on tour Environment and 2049 Unstarred 24-Apr-12 Environment and Forests Parida operators in wildlife areas Forest Trade BJD Odisha Forest Conservation Wildlife Management Shri Kumar Anti-dam protests in Disaster *442 Starred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Deepak Das North Eastern region Management AGP Assam Energy Studies EIA Shri Dhiraj Deforestation in the Forest 3420 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Prasad Sahu country Conservation INC Jharkhand Environment and Forest Trade Toxic waste in Union 3421 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Kusum Rai Carbide Factory at Bhopal Pollution BJP Uttar Pradesh Environmental Education, NGOs Shri Prabhat Jha and Media BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Bharatsinh Environmental Prabhatsinh Study on impact of Education, NGOs 3422 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Parmar mobile towers on wildlife and Media BJP Gujarat Shri Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala Pollution BJP Gujarat Wildlife Management Compliance report on Shri Avinash Nira Deoghar Irrigation 3423 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Pande Project Agriculture INC Maharashtra EIA Water Management

Freshwater and Dr. T. Subbarami Marine 3424 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Reddy Assessment of NRCP Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh Shri Pollution IND. Jharkhand Shri Rajiv Pratap Increase in e-waste 3425 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Rudy generation in the country Pollution BJP Bihar Sound e-waste 3426 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri K.E. Ismail management system Pollution CPI Kerala Shri M.P. Achuthan CPI Kerala Conservation and Shri Rama management of Mangrove Environmental 3427 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia forest in Odisha coast Conservation INC Odisha Forest Conservation Utilization of funds Shri Prakash collected under substitute Forest 3428 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Javadekar forestry scheme Conservation BJP Maharashtra Environment and Forest Trade Shri Shivpratap Green India Mission in Forest 3429 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Singh Chhattisgarh Conservation BJP Chhattisgarh Prevention of illegal mining in protected forest Environmental 3430 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Ishwar Singh areas Conservation INC Haryana Forest Conservation EIA Respiratory diseases due Shri Mohammed to air pollution in national 3431 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Adeeb capital Pollution IND. Uttar Pradesh Health and Sanitation Shri Avinash Gunjawani Irrigation 3432 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Pande Project at Pune Agriculture INC Maharashtra EIA Water Management

Strengthening of Bamboo Environment and 3433 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh Board Forest Trade BJP Madhya Pradesh Forest Conservation Smt. Vasanthi Forest cover in Tamil Forest 3434 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Stanley Nadu Conservation DMK Tamil Nadu Shri V.P.Singh Migration of Siberian Wildlife 3435 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Badnore Cranes to India Management BJP Rajasthan Shri Baishnab Alternative 3436 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Parida Recycle of waste papers Technologies BJD Odisha Energy Studies Pollution Water Management Shri Dhiraj Prasad Use of fuelwood in the Alternative 3437 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Sahu country Technologies INC Jharkhand Energy Studies Environment and Forest Trade Climate Change and Meteorology Shri Shantaram Forest 3438 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Naik Forest cover in Conservation INC Goa Shri Rama Notification of critical Forest 3439 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia wildlife habitats in Odisha Conservation INC Odisha Wildlife Management Shri Mohammed Conservation of elephants Wildlife 3440 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Adeeb and tigers Management IND. Uttar Pradesh Nira Deoghar project in 3441 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Piyush Goyal Maharashtra EIA BJP Maharashtra Forest Conservation Forest 3442 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Dr. C.P. Thakur Silting of river beds Conservation BJP Bihar Freshwater and Marine Conservation

Freshwater and Smt. Mohsina Polluting of the Ganga by Marine 3443 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Kidwai industries Conservation INC Chhattisgarh Pollution Prof. Saif-ud-Din Discussions on climate Climate Change Jammu & 3444 Unstarred 8-May-12 Environment and Forests Soz change and Meteorology INC Kashmir Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Environmental offenders Shri Kumar in the North Eastern Environmental *545 Starred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Deepak Das region Conservation AGP Assam Pollution Impact of increased level of air pollution on human *553 Starred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Motilal Vora health in Delhi Pollution INC Chhattisgarh Health and Sanitation Freshwater and Marine *555 Starred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Pankaj Bora Pollution of river Conservation INC Assam Pollution Shri Natuji Halaji Diversion of forest land Forest 4196 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Thakor for road construction Conservation BJP Gujarat Shri Dilipbhai Wildlife Pandya Management BJP Gujarat Reclamation of land from Health and 4197 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Sanjay Raut sea for Mumbai city Sanitation SS Maharashtra Freshwater and Marine Shri Conservation SS Maharashtra Falling population of Shri Parimal tigers and peacocks in the Wildlife 4198 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Nathwani country Management IND. Jharkhand Shri Faggan Singh Protection of wild animals Wildlife 4199 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Kulaste in the country Management BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Husain Negotiations on climate Climate Change 4200 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Dalwai change and Meteorology INC Maharashtra Environmental

Education, NGOs and Media Environmental clearance Shri Avinash for Sapali Dam in 4201 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Pande Maharashtra Energy Studies INC Maharashtra EIA Connecting all the Wild Shri Om Prakash Life Sanctuaries in the Wildlife 4202 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Mathur country Management BJP Rajasthan Freshwater and Shri Pyarimohan Proposals under National Marine 4203 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Mohapatra Lake Conservation Plan Conservation BJD Odisha Dr. T. Subbarami Leasing of forest land for Forest 4204 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Reddy mining activities Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh Environmental Conservation Levy of cess for National Alternative 4205 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Piyush Goyal Clean Energy Fund Technologies BJP Maharashtra Energy Studies Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Pollution Drinking water supply from water bodies having Water 4206 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Dr. Prabha Thakur hotels in Rajasthan Management INC Rajasthan Health and Sanitation Pollution Freshwater and Marine Conservation Environmental clearance 4207 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Motilal Vora to power plants EIA INC Chhattisgarh Energy Studies Prof. Saif-ud-Din Harmful effects of Jammu & 4208 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Soz mercury emission Biosafety INC Kashmir Pollution

Health and Sanitation Shri Thaawar Deaths of tigers in Wildlife 4209 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Chand Gehlot different sanctuaries Management BJP Madhya Pradesh Strengthening of research capacity for climate change observation and Climate Change 4210 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh assessment and Meteorology BJP Madhya Pradesh Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Freshwater and Shri M. Venkaiah National Ganga River Marine 4211 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Naidu Basin Authority Conservation BJP Karnataka Contaminations from 4212 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri D. Raja fields trails of GM crops Agriculture CPI Tamil Nadu Biosafety Shri S. Tigers' deaths in the Wildlife 4213 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Thangavelu country Management DMK Tamil Nadu Shri Rama Loss of forests due to Forest 4214 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia wild fire Conservation INC Odisha Disaster Management Freshwater and Conservation of rivers Marine 4215 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri N. Balaganga and lakes in the country Conservation AIADMK Tamil Nadu Pollution CAG observation on Freshwater and Shri A. conservation of rivers and Marine 4216 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Elavarasan lakes Conservation AIADMK Tamil Nadu Pollution Clearance issuance Shri Natuji Halaji mechanism under new 4217 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Thakor CRZ Notification EIA BJP Gujarat Pollution Freshwater and Marine Conservation 4218 Unstarred 15-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Rajiv Pratap Pollution due to Pollution BJP Bihar

Rudy incinerators in the country Allocation of funds to Forest *642 Starred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Sabir Ali Bihar Conservation JD(U) Bihar Freshwater and Marine Conservation Health and Sanitation Pollution Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Wildlife Management Impact assessment of Demwe Lower HE Shri Birendra Project in Arunachal *653 Starred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Prasad Baishya Pradesh EIA AGP Assam Energy Studies Environmental Shri Natuji Halaji Coast line mapping in Education, NGOs *655 Starred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Thakor Gujarat and Media BJP Gujarat Shri Balwinder Safe disposal of CFL 4968 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Singh Bhunder bulbs Energy Studies SAD Punjab Pollution Health and Sanitation Display of environmental related information by 4969 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh petroleum companies EIA BJP Madhya Pradesh Reduction in prey base of Shri Rama tigers at Simlipal forest in Wildlife 4970 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia Odisha Management INC Odisha Illegal planting of GMO 4971 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri D. Raja by Monsanto Agriculture CPI Tamil Nadu Biosafety Death during recruitment Forest 4972 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Piyush Goyal of forest guards Conservation BJP Maharashtra

Environmental Prof. Saif-ud-Din Permits to wildlife Education, NGOs Jammu & 4973 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Soz researchers and Media INC Kashmir Wildlife Management Environmental UN Report on global Education, NGOs 4974 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri N. Balaganga warming and Media AIADMK Tamil Nadu Climate Change and Meteorology Freshwater and Dr. T. Subbarami Conservation of lakes in Marine 4975 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Reddy the country Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh Pollution Shri V.P.Singh Tiger protection forces in Wildlife 4976 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Badnore Project Tiger Management BJP Rajasthan Shri Anil Madhav Forest Carbon Partnership Climate Change 4977 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Dave Facility and Meteorology BJP Madhya Pradesh Forest Conservation Shri Bhupender Compensation for Forest 4978 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests acquisition of forest land Conservation BJP Rajasthan Environment and Forest Trade Shri Rama Provisioning of fire-works Forest 4979 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia to forest guards Conservation INC Odisha Wildlife Management Environmental clearance Shri Nandi for excavation of mines in 4980 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Yellaiah Andhra Pradesh EIA INC Andhra Pradesh Forest Conservation Bio-safety violations by 4981 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri D. Raja Monsanto Agriculture CPI Tamil Nadu Biosafety Shri Palvai Tiger zone in Adilabad Wildlife 4982 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Govardhan Reddy district of Andhra Pradesh Management INC Andhra Pradesh

Smt. Gundu Sudharani TDP Andhra Pradesh Dr. Janardhan Decrease in population of Wildlife 4983 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Waghmare tigers in the country Management NCP Maharashtra Shri N. K. Singh JD(U) Bihar Environmental clearance Shri Birendra to hydropower projects in 4984 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Prasad Baishya the country EIA AGP Assam Energy Studies Climate Change and Meteorology Freshwater and Shri Nand Kumar Conservation of Dal- Marine 4985 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Sai in Conservation BJP Chhattisgarh Illegal planting of GM 4986 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri D. Raja corn by Monsanto Agriculture CPI Tamil Nadu Biosafety Shri Rama Measures for checking Wildlife 4987 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia extinction of wildlife Management INC Odisha Conditions for environmental clearance 4996 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Shri Piyush Goyal to Navi Mumbai airport EIA BJP Maharashtra Freshwater and Shri Shivanand National Ganga River Marine 5087 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Tiwari Basin Authority Conservation JD(U) Bihar Shri BJP Bihar Shri Ashk Ali Scheme for development Environmental 5093 Unstarred 22-May-12 Environment and Forests Tak of desert areas Conservation INC Rajasthan Water Management Higher allocation for Environmental Shri Ramchandra fighting environmental Conservation *63 Starred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Prasad Singh crisis JD(U) Bihar Forest Conservation Pollution Wildlife

Management Shri Rama Ban on use of live Wildlife *68 Starred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia animals for dissection Management INC Odisha Smt. Jaya Forest *71 Starred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Bachchan Measures for saving tigers Conservation SP Uttar Pradesh Wildlife Management Violations to rules made Shri under Forest Environment and 503 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Koshyari (Conservation) Act, 1980 Forest Trade BJP Uttarakhand Forest Conservation Wildlife Management Achievements of National Freshwater and Ganga River Basin Marine 504 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Shri Prabhat Jha Authority Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Pollution Forest 505 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Shri Ashk Ali Tak Forest area in Rajasthan Conservation INC Rajasthan Coal mining in forest Environment and 506 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Dr. T.N. Seema areas in Madhya Pradesh Forest Trade CPI(M) Kerala Forest Conservation Shri Vijay Forest 507 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Jawaharlal Darda Loss of forest cover Conservation INC Maharashtra UNO millennium Shri Rama programme for climate Climate Change 508 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia change and Meteorology INC Odisha EIA Forest Conservation Noise pollution level in 509 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Shri Sanjay Raut Nagpur Pollution SS Maharashtra Shri Ramchandra Conservation and growth Climate Change 510 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Prasad Singh of forests in the country and Meteorology JD(U) Bihar Forest Conservation

Shri Parimal Bio-diversity of Western Environmental 511 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Nathwani Ghats Conservation IND. Jharkhand Forest Conservation Shri Anil Madhav Measures taken for 512 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Dave combating light pollution Pollution BJP Madhya Pradesh Vacant posts of Members Dr. Chandan in National Green Environmental 513 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Mitra Tribunal Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Forest Conservation Shri K.N. Permission for mining in Forest 514 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Balagopal forest lands Conservation CPI(M) Kerala EIA Freshwater and Marine 515 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Shri Vivek Gupta Cleaning of river Ganga Conservation AITC West Bengal Recommendations by Shri Rajeev Madhav Gadgil Panel for 516 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Chandrasekhar Western Ghat EIA IND. Karnataka Environmental Conservation Forest Conservation Wildlife Management Shri Rasheed Policy for disposal of e- 517 Unstarred 14-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Masood waste Pollution INC Uttar Pradesh Shri Faggan Singh Forest-village Forest *122 Starred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Kulaste development scheme Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Health and Sanitation Water Management Shri Anil Madhav *134 Starred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Dave Water pollution Pollution BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Kanwar Deep Sector-wise Forest *135 Starred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Singh Advisory Committees EIA AITC Jharkhand

Forest Conservation Amendment in Wildlife Forest 965 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Shri Ishwar Singh Protection Act Conservation INC Haryana Wildlife Management Shri Baishnab 966 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Parida Safe disposal of e-waste Pollution BJD Odisha Shri Ishwarlal Wet and marshy land in Forest 967 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Shankarlal Jain Maharashtra Conservation NCP Maharashtra Freshwater and Marine Conservation Smt. Vasanthi Climate Change 968 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Stanley Formation of EPA and Meteorology DMK Tamil Nadu Pollution Freshwater and Marine 969 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh Pollution of Yamuna river Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Pollution Freshwater and Shri Thaawar Marine 970 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Chand Gehlot Conservation of rivers Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Pollution Freshwater and Shri Rajeev Restoration of lakes in Marine 971 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Chandrasekhar Karnataka Conservation IND. Karnataka Carrying capacity of 972 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Smt. T. Ratna Bai country's coastline EIA INC Andhra Pradesh Shri Kumar Protection of animals at Wildlife 973 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Deepak Das Management AGP Assam Shri P. Encroachment of forest Forest 974 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Bhattacharya land in Conservation INC West Bengal Smt. Jaya Conservation of Wildlife 975 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Bachchan Narcondum Hornbills Management SP Uttar Pradesh Shri Mohd. Ali Special Tiger Protection Wildlife 976 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Khan Force in Karnataka Management INC Andhra Pradesh 977 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Shri Aayanur International assistance Pollution BJP Karnataka

Manjunatha for disposal of e-waste Diversion of forest land Shri Natuji Halaji for developmental Forest 978 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Thakor activities Conservation BJP Gujarat Approval of schemes Shri Mahendra under Forest Act, 1980 Forest 979 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Singh Mahra for Uttarakhand Conservation INC Uttarakhand Shri Ram Policy for conservation of Forest 1033 Unstarred 21-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Jethmalani forests Conservation Wildlife reserves affected Wildlife *222 Starred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Kanimozhi by floods Management DMK Tamil Nadu Shri Nand Kumar Release of funds to State Forest *223 Starred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Sai CAMPAs Conservation BJP Chhattisgarh Shri Lalhming Utilization of funds Climate Change *227 Starred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Liana allocated to and Meteorology MNF Mizoram Environmental Conservation Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Forest Conservation Freshwater and Marine Conservation Pollution Wildlife Management Shri Rama Rehabilitation of villages Forest *231 Starred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia from buffer area of forests Conservation INC Odisha Wildlife Management Depletion of Natural Shri Ramchandra resources in Western Environmental *232 Starred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Prasad Singh Ghats Conservation JD(U) Bihar Forest Conservation Dr. Gyan Prakash Report of Forest Survey Forest 1739 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Pilania of India in forest cover Conservation BJP Rajasthan

Shri Rama Wildlife 1740 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia Tiger Project Management INC Odisha World Bank assistance to Shri Kanwar Deep check poaching in Wildlife 1741 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Singh national Parks Management AITC Jharkhand Contamination of ground Freshwater and water by industrial Marine 1742 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh pollutants Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Health and Sanitation Pollution Shri Mansukh L. Wildlife 1743 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Mandaviya Sacrifice of animals Management BJP Gujarat Utilization of funds Forest 1744 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Kanimozhi allocated for afforestation Conservation DMK Tamil Nadu Review of afforestation Forest 1745 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Smt. T. Ratna Bai scheme Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh Environment and Forest Trade Incineration of toxic 1746 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Shri D. Raja waste Pollution CPI Tamil Nadu Shri Natuji Halaji State Forest Development Forest 1747 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Thakor Agency Conservation BJP Gujarat Freshwater and Dr. Gyan Prakash Status report on pollution Marine 1748 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Pilania of rivers Conservation BJP Rajasthan Pollution Shri Rajeev Forest 1749 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Chandrasekhar National Park Conservation IND. Karnataka Wildlife Management National Council of Environmental Dr. Chandan Forestry Research and Education, NGOs 1750 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Mitra Education and Media BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Baishnab Afforestation projects in Environment and 1751 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Parida the country Forest Trade BJD Odisha Forest Conservation

Water Management Shri V.P.Singh Tiger deaths in Corbett Wildlife 1752 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Badnore National Park Management BJP Rajasthan Shri Rasheed Complaint against 1753 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Masood polluting industries Pollution INC Uttar Pradesh Power projects for 1754 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Dr. T.N. Seema environment clearance EIA CPI(M) Kerala Energy Studies Forest Conservation Project construction of Shri Dilipbhai ring road around Gir Forest 1755 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Pandya forests Conservation BJP Gujarat Wildlife Management Freshwater and Shri Rama Impact of Yamuna river's Marine 1756 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia toxins Conservation INC Odisha Pollution Shri A. Indian Wildlife Business Environmental 1757 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Elavarasan Council Conservation AIADMK Tamil Nadu Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Wildlife Management Environmental Shri Mansukh L. Conservation of House Education, NGOs 1758 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Mandaviya Sparrows and Media BJP Gujarat Wildlife Management Categorization of Shri Devender coalfields as inviolate Environmental 1759 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Goud T. areas Conservation TDP Andhra Pradesh EIA Forest Conservation

Freshwater and Shri Kumar Pollution of river Bharalu Marine 1760 Unstarred 28-Aug-12 Environment and Forests Deepak Das in Assam Conservation AGP Assam Pollution Shri Shantaram *321 Starred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Naik Mineral ore dumps in Goa EIA INC Goa Pollution Environmental Dr. K.V.P. Mapping and assessment Education, NGOs *329 Starred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Ramachandra Rao of the forest cover and Media INC Andhra Pradesh Forest Conservation Shri Anil Madhav High level of Air Quality *333 Starred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Dave Index Pollution BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Mani Revival of Planet Climate Change *340 Starred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Shankar Aiyar Protection Fund and Meteorology INC Nominated Burden on airlines due to Shri Vijay EU environmental Climate Change 2503 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Jawaharlal Darda constraints and Meteorology INC Maharashtra Shri Prakash Sulphur content in 2504 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Javadekar emission due to diesel Pollution BJP Maharashtra Report on demarcation of Environmental 2505 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Shri D. Raja forest Conservation CPI Tamil Nadu Forest Conservation Wildlife Management Shri Rajiv Pratap Climate Change 2506 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Rudy Assessment of NAPCC and Meteorology BJP Bihar Trained staff for Forest 2507 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Kanimozhi environmental projects Conservation DMK Tamil Nadu Wildlife Management Environmental Installation of mobile Education, NGOs 2508 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Kanimozhi towers in forest areas and Media DMK Tamil Nadu Forest Conservation

Health and Sanitation Pollution Wildlife Management Compliance of emission 2509 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Dr. V. Maitreyan norms by cement factories Pollution AIADMK Tamil Nadu Checking of vehicular 2510 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Dr. V. Maitreyan pollution Pollution AIADMK Tamil Nadu Shri Mansukh L. Encroachment of forests Environment and 2511 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Mandaviya land for illegal grazing Forest Trade BJP Gujarat Forest Conservation Shri Mansukh L. Environment and 2512 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Mandaviya Export of exotic birds Forest Trade BJP Gujarat Wildlife Management Dr. Chandan Core areas in tiger Wildlife 2513 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Mitra reserves Management BJP Madhya Pradesh Smt. Jaya Loss of animal lives due Wildlife 2514 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Bachchan to floods in Assam Management SP Uttar Pradesh Disaster Management 2515 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Shri Pankaj Bora Use of fuel wood Agriculture INC Assam Environment and Forest Trade Energy Studies Dr. Janardhan Impact of noise pollution Health and 2516 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Waghmare on health Sanitation NCP Maharashtra Pollution Disappearance of Dr. Janardhan voluntary agencies with Forest 2517 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Waghmare afforestation funds Conservation NCP Maharashtra Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Shri A. Faster clearance for less- 2518 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Elavarasan polluting power plants EIA AIADMK Tamil Nadu

Pollution Conservation of sacred Environmental 2519 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh groves Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Y. S. Forest 2520 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Chowdary Delay in forest clearance Conservation TDP Andhra Pradesh EIA National Afforestation Forest 2521 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Shri C.M.Ramesh Programme Conservation TDP Andhra Pradesh Disposal of cases under Forest 2522 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Shri Vivek Gupta National Green Tribunal Conservation AITC West Bengal Compliance of pollution control norms by 2523 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Dr. T.N. Seema distilleries Pollution CPI(M) Kerala Shri Faggan Singh Displacement of villages Wildlife 2524 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Kulaste near National Parks Management BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Sanjiv Utilization of CAPMA Forest 2525 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Kumar funds Conservation JMM Jharkhand Dr. K.V.P. Ramachandra Environmental 2526 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Rao Eco-City Scheme Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh Pollution Report of Dr. Madhav Shri C.P. Gadgil Committee on Environmental 2527 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Narayanan Conservation CPI(M) Kerala Freshwater and Shri Palvai Status of proposal from Marine 2528 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Govardhan Reddy Coast Guards Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh Wildlife Management Environmental Shri Thaawar Research on quality of Education, NGOs 2529 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Chand Gehlot river waters and Media BJP Madhya Pradesh Pollution Appointment of Chairman Shri Natuji Halaji in National Green Forest 2530 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Thakor Tribunal Conservation BJP Gujarat Complaints for scraping Freshwater and Shri Y. S. of Ganga River Basin Marine 2531 Unstarred 4-Sep-12 Environment and Forests Chowdary Authority Conservation TDP Andhra Pradesh

*62 Shri Darshan Steps taken for making Freshwater and Singh Yadav the Yamuna river Marine Starred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests pollution free Conservation SP Uttar Pradesh Pollution *63 Shri D.P. Tripathi Safety of tigers in the Wildlife Starred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests country Management NCP Maharashtra *74 Shri Mohd. Ali Bio-diversity awareness Environmental Starred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Khan Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh Environmental Education, NGOs and Media 488 Smt. T. Ratna Bai Encroachment of forest Forest Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests areas Conservation INC Andhra Pradesh Shri Mohd. Ali Khan INC Andhra Pradesh 489 Shri Darshan Evaluation of cleaning of Freshwater and Singh Yadav rivers Marine Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Conservation SP Uttar Pradesh Pollution 490 Shri Avinash Ban on plastic bags in Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Pande Delhi Rajasthan Pollution INC Maharashtra 491 Smt. T. Ratna Bai Man-animal conflict Wildlife Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Management INC Andhra Pradesh Shri Mohd. Ali Khan INC Andhra Pradesh 492 Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Shri Mohan Singh Pollution free Delhi Pollution SP Uttar Pradesh 493 Shri Mahendra Proposal for development Forest Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Singh Mahra works related projects Conservation INC Uttarakhand 494 Shri Darshan Participation of States in Freshwater and Singh Yadav conservation of rivers Marine Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Conservation SP Uttar Pradesh Health and Sanitation Pollution 495 Dr. Prabha Thakur Environment-related security in construction Environmental Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests works Conservation INC Rajasthan EIA

496 Shri Raghunandan Funding for different Freshwater and Sharma projects in Madhya Marine Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Pradesh Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh 497 Smt. Jaya Cleaning of Yamuna river Freshwater and Bachchan Marine Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Conservation SP Uttar Pradesh Pollution 498 Dr. Pradeep Lifting of ban on tourism Wildlife Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Kumar Balmuchu in tiger reserves Management INC Jharkhand 500 Smt. Kanimozhi Monitoring of pollution Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests by CPCB in Tamil Nadu Pollution DMK Tamil Nadu 501 Shri Bhagat Singh Conservation of tigers and Wildlife Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Koshyari other wild animals Management BJP Uttarakhand 502 Shri Rama Pending of projects for Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia environmental clearance EIA INC Odisha 503 Shri C.P. Protection of leopards Wildlife Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Narayanan Management CPI(M) Kerala 504 Shri Ambeth Funds earmarked for Rajan Scheduled Caste and Environmental Unstarred 27-Nov-12 Environment and Forests Tribal Sub Plans Conservation BSP Uttar Pradesh Shri Thaawar Freshwater and Chand Gehlot Marine *143 Starred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Cleaning of rivers Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Shri Dilipbhai Freshwater and Pandya Marine *147 Starred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Cleaning of Gujarat coast Conservation BJP Gujarat Pollution Dr. Prabhakar Polluted industrial *150 Starred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Kore clusters Pollution BJP Karnataka Shri Parshottam Protection of ancient Khodabhai herbal plants and birds in *157 Starred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Rupala forest areas Medicinal Plants BJP Gujarat Expenditure on Smt. Smriti Zubin environmental protection Environmental *159 Starred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Irani and afforestation Conservation BJP Gujarat Forest Conservation Shri Darshan Discharge of poisonous *160 Starred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Yadav water by chemical Pollution SP Uttar Pradesh

factories in Haryana Shri Darshan Pollution controlling 1103 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Yadav system in factories Pollution SP Uttar Pradesh Poaching of leopards in Shri Rajeev Bandipur Tiger Reserve Wildlife 1104 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Chandrasekhar in Karnataka Management IND. Karnataka Development of portals Climate Change 1105 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Smt. T. Ratna Bai on green projects and Meteorology INC Andhra Pradesh Shri Mohd. Ali Khan INC Andhra Pradesh Shri M.P. Fresh guidelines on tiger Wildlife 1106 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Achuthan conservation Management CPI Kerala Shri D. Raja CPI Tamil Nadu International treaty obligations on Environmental 1107 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri N. K. Singh dismantling of toxic ships Conservation JD(U) Bihar Dr. Janardhan Waghmare Pollution NCP Maharashtra Data on black carbon Climate Change 1108 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh emission and Meteorology BJP Madhya Pradesh Pollution Shri Parimal Diversion of conservation Environmental 1109 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Nathwani funds in Jharkhand Conservation IND. Jharkhand Wildlife Management Freshwater and Dr. Gyan Prakash High level of pollution at Marine 1110 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Pilania Ganga river Conservation BJP Rajasthan Pollution Ban on field trials of GM 1111 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri D. Raja crops Agriculture CPI Tamil Nadu Shri M.P. Achuthan Biosafety CPI Kerala Nagoya Protocol on Shri Nand Kumar Access and Benefit Climate Change 1112 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Sai Sharing and Meteorology BJP Chhattisgarh Environmental Conservation

Assistance for Shri Mahendra extinguishing fire during Disaster 1113 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Mahra summer in Uttarakhand Management INC Uttarakhand Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Forest Conservation Shri Baishnab Speedy environment 1114 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Parida clearance of projects EIA BJD Odisha Inter-Ministerial Group Freshwater and Dr. K.P. on Ganga river Marine 1115 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Ramalingam management Conservation DMK Tamil Nadu Shri Birendra Encroachment of forest Wildlife 1116 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Prasad Baishya land in Assam Management AGP Assam Environmental clearance Shri Kanwar Deep to Mahan Coal Block in 1117 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Madhya Pradesh EIA AITC Jharkhand Freshwater and Shri Darshan Study on rising pollution Marine 1118 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Yadav level in the rivers Conservation SP Uttar Pradesh Pollution Dr. Gyan Prakash Forest 1119 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Pilania Forest cover in India Conservation BJP Rajasthan Smt. Jaya Alternative 1120 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Bachchan Solar Surveillance System Technologies SP Uttar Pradesh Wildlife Management Projects pending for 1121 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Dr. T.N. Seema environment clearance Energy Studies CPI(M) Kerala EIA Water Management Pollution by industrial Freshwater and Chaudhary establishments in Madhya Marine 1122 Unstarred 4-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Munabbar Saleem Pradesh Conservation SP Uttar Pradesh Pollution Water Management

Smt. Renubala Tiger and elephant Wildlife *244 Starred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Pradhan projects in Odisha Management BJD Odisha Dr. Bharatkumar Environmental clearance *250 Starred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Raut for Navi Mumbai Airport EIA SS Maharashtra Dr. Prabhakar Study on impact of sand Environmental *251 Starred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Kore mining on ecology Conservation BJP Karnataka Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Freshwater and Abuse of ground water for Marine *254 Starred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri D. Raja industrial use Conservation CPI Tamil Nadu Water Management Shri Bhagat Singh Schemes for conservation Wildlife *255 Starred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Koshyari of tigers Management BJP Uttarakhand Cleaning of major Freshwater and Shri Dhiraj Prasad polluted rivers in the Marine *258 Starred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Sahu country Conservation INC Jharkhand Pollution Shri Darshan Standard for sewage 1880 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Yadav treatment plants Pollution SP Uttar Pradesh Special programme for Dr. Chandan recovery of critically Wildlife 1881 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Mitra endangered species Management BJP Madhya Pradesh Dr. T. Subbarami Additional funds for Wildlife 1882 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Reddy sanctuaries Management INC Andhra Pradesh Shri Dilipbhai World Bank loan to check Wildlife 1883 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Pandya poaching Management BJP Gujarat Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani BJP Gujarat Freshwater and Shri Mansukh L. National River Marine 1884 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Mandaviya Conservation Plan Conservation BJP Gujarat Shri Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala BJP Gujarat Shri Dhiraj Prasad Forests cover in the Forest 1885 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Sahu country Conservation INC Jharkhand

Shri Darshan Break-out of disease due 1886 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Yadav to pollution Pollution SP Uttar Pradesh Killing of rhinoceros due Disaster 1887 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri C.M. Ramesh to floods in Assam Management TDP Andhra Pradesh Wildlife Management Regulation of environmental Climate Change 1888 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Dr. T.N. Seema degradation in the country and Meteorology CPI(M) Kerala Environmental Conservation EIA Water Management Shri Avinash Studies on impact of Bt. 1889 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Pande cotton Agriculture INC Maharashtra Biosafety Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Freshwater and Shri Aayanur Discharge of effluents Marine 1890 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Manjunatha into the sea Conservation BJP Karnataka Pollution Shri Balwinder Extraction of earth for Environmental 1891 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Bhunder brick kiln Conservation SAD Punjab EIA Shri Baishnab Pollution by thermal 1892 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Parida power plants Pollution BJD Odisha Climate Change 1893 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Kanimozhi CoP-11 in Hyderabad and Meteorology DMK Tamil Nadu Environmental Conservation Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Irregularities in 1894 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Dr. V. Maitreyan environmental clearance EIA AIADMK Tamil Nadu

to new industries Wildlife 1895 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri Mohan Singh Rehabilitation of tigers Management SP Uttar Pradesh Reduction in emission Alternative 1896 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri Piyush Goyal levels Technologies BJP Maharashtra Climate Change and Meteorology Energy Studies Pollution Environmental Erosion of Indian Education, NGOs 1897 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Dr. Vijay Mallya coastline and Media IND. Karnataka Pollution Environmental Loss of forests land in Education, NGOs 1898 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri Motilal Vora Himalayan region and Media INC Chhattisgarh Forest Conservation Environment clearance to Dr. Bharatkumar irrigation projects in 1899 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Raut Maharashtra EIA SS Maharashtra Water Management Inspection of industrial units under Environmental 1900 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri C.M. Ramesh Surveillance Scheme Pollution TDP Andhra Pradesh Shri Rama Reduction in tiger and Wildlife 1901 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Chandra Khuntia leopard population Management INC Odisha Shri Avinash Amendments to the Wild Wildlife 1902 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Pande Life Protection Act Management INC Maharashtra Shri Bhagat Singh Decrease in forest areas Forest 1903 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Koshyari due to industrialization Conservation BJP Uttarakhand Freshwater and Shri Rasheed Marine 1904 Unstarred 11-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Masood Cleaning of Ganga River Conservation INC Uttar Pradesh Shri Kumar Conservation of one Wildlife *341 Starred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Deepak Das horned rhinoes in Assam Management AGP Assam

Shri Natuji Halaji Diversion of forest land Forest *349 Starred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Thakor for development activities Conservation BJP Gujarat Shri Om Prakash Air quality in *355 Starred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Mathur Metropolitan cities Pollution BJP Rajasthan Violation of FRA by the Forest Advisory Forest 2653 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Kusum Rai Committee Conservation BJP Uttar Pradesh Shri Arvind Kumar Singh SP Uttar Pradesh Utilisation of funds for implementation of Freshwater and Shri Jagat Prakash programmes relating Marine Himachal 2654 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Nadda to prevention of pollution Conservation BJP Pradesh Pollution Environmental clearance to Ennore Thermal Power 2655 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri N. Balaganga Plant Energy Studies AIADMK Tamil Nadu EIA Dr. Bhalchandra Measures to improve the Environmental 2656 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Mungekar environmental situation Conservation INC Nominated Pollution Shri Mansukh L. Wildlife 2657 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Mandaviya Study on Asiatic Lions Management BJP Gujarat Shri Parshottam Khodabhai Rupala BJP Gujarat Collaboration with ICMR Environmental Shri T.M. on environmental Education, NGOs 2658 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Selvaganapathi problems and Media DMK Tamil Nadu Health and Sanitation Forest clearance to Rengali Canal Project in 2659 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Shri A.V. Swamy Odisha EIA IND. Odisha Forest Conservation Measures for making Freshwater and Shri Prasanta Yamuna river water Marine 2660 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Chatterjee potable Conservation CPI(M) West Bengal

Pollution Protection of migratory Smt. Vasanthi birds at Chilka lake in Wildlife 2661 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Stanley Odisha Management DMK Tamil Nadu Environmental Shri Darshan Survey on deaths due to Education, NGOs 2662 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Yadav pollution and Media SP Uttar Pradesh Pollution Environmental clearance Dr. Gyan Prakash to irrigation projects of 2663 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Pilania Rajasthan Agriculture BJP Rajasthan EIA Water Management Freshwater and Dr. Bharatkumar Pollution level in Ganga Marine 2664 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Raut river Conservation SS Maharashtra Pollution Shri Ram UN report on climate Climate Change 2665 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Jethmalani change and Meteorology BJP Rajasthan Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Shri Nand Kumar Meeting with ASEAN Environmental 2666 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Sai countries Conservation BJP Chhattisgarh Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Dr. Kanwar Deep 2667 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Smog build-up in Delhi Pollution AITC Jharkhand Exemption from Shri Husain mandatory clearances 2668 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Dalwai under Forest Rights Act EIA INC Maharashtra Forest Conservation Freshwater and Conservation of rivers in Marine 2669 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Dr. Vijay Mallya Karnataka Conservation IND. Karnataka Health and

Sanitation Stringent laws for Shri T.M. violation of Environmental 2670 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Selvaganapathi environmental laws Conservation DMK Tamil Nadu Shri Balwinder Guidelines for clearance 2671 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Bhunder to laying of oil pipelines EIA SAD Punjab Shri Mahendra Conservation of musk Wildlife 2672 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Singh Mahra deer Management INC Uttarakhand Shri Ravi Shankar Climate Change 2673 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Prasad Impact of climatic change and Meteorology BJP Bihar Environmental Education, NGOs and Media Shri Ajay Moratorium on field trials 2674 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Sancheti of GM crops Agriculture BJP Maharashtra Biosafety Freshwater and Marine 2711 Unstarred 18-Dec-12 Environment and Forests Smt. Maya Singh Cleaning of river Yamuna Conservation BJP Madhya Pradesh Pollution

LION AS NATIONAL ANIMAL 13th March, 2012

RSQ *3

SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI

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

(a) the population of tigers in the country and the population of Lions in Gir Forest of Gujarat; (b) whether it is a fact that the existing population of lion is available only in Gir Forest in Asia; (c) the reasons for Government not changing its view and declaring ‘Lion’ as the National Animal; and (d) whether tigers are available at a number of places in Asia but the royal animal ‘Lion’ is available only in Gir; and (e) whether in view of this fact Government would promote Gir as a National tourist centre and declare ‘Lion’ as the National Animal?

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

(a) to (e) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b), (c), (d) AND (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO *3 REGARDING ‘LION AS NATIONAL ANIMAL’ BY SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.3.2012.

(a) As per the latest Country level assessment undertaken during 2010, the wild population of tigers in the country has been estimated to be 1,707 (1,520 being the lower limit and 1,909 being the upper limit of the estimated range). Further, the population of Asiatic lions in , Sanctuary and other areas of Greater Gir (Brihad Gir) was estimated at 411 by the Government of Gujarat in 2010.

(b) to (e) It is a fact that the Gir forest has the only wild population of Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) in the world. The Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is a subspecies of tiger native to Indian subcontinent and its geographical range includes most of the States in India. Other than India, the Bengal tiger also occurs in Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan. Tiger was adopted as our National Animal in place of the Lion in a meeting of the Indian Board for Wildlife held in 1972 in view of the following considerations:

(i) Worldwide importance of Tiger and its existence over the entire Country; (ii) Need for its strict protection all over the Country; (iii) Tiger is found in as many as 16 States whereas Lion only in one State.

Presently, Bengal tiger continues to be our National Animal, and there is no proposal under consideration with the Government to replace it with the Asiatic lion.

The Planning Commission has approved, in principle, a project for “Conservation of Asiatic lion in Greater Gir Region” to be implemented by the Government of Gujarat over a period of five years at the cost of Rs.262.36 crores including central assistance of Rs.236.63 crores. The project, inter alia, includes creation of infrastructure for promotion of eco-tourism in the Gir forest.

CROPS AND HUMAN LIVES DAMAGED BY WILD ANIMALS 13th March, 2012

RSQ *5

SHRIMATI VIPLOVE THAKUR

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

(a) whether the increasing incidents of damage to crops and human lives by wild animals, including monkeys, have been reported from various States in the country, particularly in Himachal Pradesh; (b) if so, the details thereof during the last three years and the current year, Statewise; (c) whether Government has provided any compensation for loss of human lives and crops; (d) if so, the details thereof, State-wise and if not, the reasons therefor; (e) whether Government proposes to make any provision to compensate the victims of such incidents; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

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), (b), (c), (d), (e) AND (f) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO 5 REGARDING ‘CROPS AND HUMAN LIVES DAMAGED BY WILD ANIMALS’ BY SHRIMATI VIPLOVE THAKUR DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.3.2012.

(a) and (b) Incidents of damage to crops and human lives by wild animals like elephant, leopard, wild boar, blue bull, monkey, etc. are reported from States/Union Territories of the country including Himachal Pradesh. However, the State/-wise details of such incidences are not collated in the Ministry.

(c) to (f) Payment of compensation to victims of wild animals is the responsibility of the concerned State/Union Territory Governments. The State-wise details of payment of such compensation are not collated in the Ministry. However, subject to availability of budget, the Central Government supplements/provides financial assistance to the State/Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats”, “Project Elephant” and “Project Tiger” to make payment of ex-gratia relief to the victims in incidents of damage to crops and human lives by wild animals.

VIOLATIONS IN CLEARING PROJECTS DANGEROUS TO FORESTS 13th March, 2012

RSQ *8

SHRI RAMDAS AGARWAL

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

(a) whether Government is aware that some members of the Statutory Forest Advisory Committee have reportedly pointed out certain violations in clearing projects that are dangerous to forests; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the details of corrective measures taken by Government to improve the working of the State Forest Departments and impress upon them to follow provisions of the Forest Conservation Act honestly and without any pressure?

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. 8 BY SHRI RAMDAS AGARWAL REGARDING ‘VIOLATIONS IN CLEARING PROJECTS DANGEROUS TO FORESTS’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.03.2012.

(a) The members of the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) have not pointed out violations in clearing projects that are dangerous to forests;

(b) and (c) Do not arise in view of the (a) above.

RELOCATION OF ELEPHANT HERDS IN HASSAN DISTRICT, KARNATAKA 13th March, 2012

RSQ 7

SHRI

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

(a) whether Government has prepared any action plan to relocate the elephant herds in Hassan district in Karnataka to larger elephant habitats or elephant camps; (b) if not, by when this is likely to happen; and (c) the areas that have been declared as elephant corridors?

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

(a) and (b) The management of elephant herds in States is dealt with by the State Government. Permission to capture and translocate the elephants to alternative suitable habitats for their scientific management is accorded by the Central Government under section 12 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 upon receipt of requests in this regard from the concerned State Governments. For a plan of relocation of elephants in Hassan District in Karnataka, permission was granted during November, 2011 to the Government of Karnataka to capture and translocate 25 elephants, subject to laid down conditions, in Alur range of Hassan division. No action in furtherance to the permission has, however, been taken by the State Government in view of the orders passed by the Hon’ble High court of Karnataka in Writ Petition (Civil) No. 14029 of 2008.

(c) Elephant corridors are identified and declared by the concerned State Governments. No elephant corridors have been declared by the Government of Karnataka so far.

POLLUTION BY OKHLA WASTE-TO – ENERGY PLANT 13th March, 2012

RSQ 8

SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN SINGH

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

(a) Whether it is a fact that residents residing near Yamuna river in Delhi are facing breathlessness problem due to smoke and odour emanating from Okhla Waste-to – Energy plant; (b) if so, the details in this regard: (c) the quantity of waste used so far by the plant and what are the pollutants and toxics being found so far in South Delhi area: (d) whether Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has approved the technology being used by contractors in the project: and (e) if not, the action taken against the contractors so far?

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

(a) & (b): Complaints were received against the incineration of municipal waste and its likely harmful effects on the air quality and health of people in the Sukhdev Vihar/Okhla area due to the emissions from Waste-to – Energy plant at Okhla.

(c) As per the information provided by Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), till 06.3.2012, a total of 27,469 Metric Tons of municipal solid waste has been utilized and 3,250 Metric Tons of waste is lying in the collection/storage pit in the plant.

DPCC is regularly monitoring the emissions from the stack attached to the plant. Levels of oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) and Hydrochloric acid mist (HCl) are found to be within the standards, as prescribed in the Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000. However, on four occasions out of ten, levels of Particulate matter (PM) exceeded the standard of 150 mg/Nm3.

(d) & (e) As per the Central pollution Control Board, the technology being used by the Waste-to-Energy plant at Okhla is as specified in the Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000.

HIGH LEVEL OF POLLUTION IN ANGUL - DHENKANAL DISTRICT OF ODISHA 13th March, 2012

RSQ 9

SHRI

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the Angul-Dhenkanal district of Odisha has become the most polluted area because of the presence of a large number of coal mines, iron and steel factories, aluminium factories and electricity production units; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that it has been decided that henceforth no permission will be given for the opening of any new factory in that area keeping in view the environmental issues; and (d) if so, the reasons for giving permission to open highly polluting industries like coal to liquid?

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

(a) & (b) As per the survey carried out by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi based on the Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) criteria, 43 industrial clusters including Angul-Talcher located in Odisha were identified as critically polluted areas. The said industrial cluster has a large number of coal mines, iron and steel factories, aluminium factories and electricity production units. The aggregate CEPI score of Angul-Talcher was found to be 82.09, with respective CEPI scores of Air, Water and Groundwater environment as 64.00, 69.00 and 65.75 respectively.

(c) & (d) Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) had imposed a temporary moratorium in January 2010 for a period of 8 months, on consideration of projects for environmental clearance to be located in critically polluted areas/industrial clusters identified by CPCB. During this period of moratorium, the CPCB along with the respective State Pollution Control Boards / Pollution Control Committees were required to finalize a time bound action plan for improving the environmental quality in these industrial clusters / areas. A revised action plan for environmental remediation for Angul-Talcher was submitted by Odisha State Pollution Control Board (OSPCB), which was approved by CPCB and implementation of action plan had been initiated. On the basis of these actions, the MoEF has lifted the moratorium for consideration of the projects in the said area in March 2011.

COMBATING GLOBAL WARMING 13th March, 2012

RSQ 10

SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA

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

(a) whether Government is aware that the studies conducted in the Universities like Victoria in British Columbia, Canada stated that even massive conversion of land to forestry would have only a slender benefit

against the green house gas problem, because forests are darker than cropland and thus absorb more solar heat, resulting in net warming; (b) if so, apart from preservation of forests and even going ahead with lot more afforestation, what alternatives have been devised to effectively combat the menace of impending global warming ; and (c) the quantum of new forestry undertaken during 2009, 2010 and 2011 both in terms of land-area and expenditure incurred?

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

(a) and (b) The study conducted by Environment Canada and University of Victoria is based on a computer generated model states that there may be little benefits of afforestation, in higher latitudes, owing to the reflective properties of tree crown. However, the study also concluded that avoided deforestation and continued afforestation in the tropics are effective forest management strategies from climate perspective. The study conducted in British Columbia University has no direct relevance to Indian situation, where afforestation is definitely the most effective strategy to mitigate the climate change.

The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) released on June 30, 2008 outlines 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, to meet the challenges of Climate Change and enhance the ecological sustainability of India’s development path.

(c) The approved area and funds released under the National Afforestation Programme (NAP) during last three years 2008-09 to 2010-11 are as follows:

Year Approved area (in hectares) Released amount (Rs. In crores) 2008-09 173435 345.62 2009-10 103556 318.17 2010-11 57126 309.99

ASSISTANCE TO HP UNDER INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT OF WILDLIFE SCHEME 13th March, 2012

RSQ 11 SHRIMATI BIMLA KASHYAP SOOD

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

(a) the details of amount released by the Central Government to the State Government of Himachal Pradesh (HP) under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme, namely Integrated Development of Wild Life Habitats during 2010-11; and (b) the quantum of amount allocated under the scheme for Himachal Pradesh during Twelfth Five Year Plan?

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

(a) An amount of Rs. 253.80 lakh was released to the State Government of Himachal Pradesh as assistance under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ during the financial year 2010-11.

(b)The allocation under the scheme during the Twelfth Five Year Plan for the State of Himachal Pradesh has not yet been finalized.

DECLINE IN FOREST COVER OF THE COUNTRY 13th March, 2012

RSQ 12

SHRI TARUN VIJAY

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

(a) whether according to the Forest Survey of India (FSI) Report, 2011 the forest cover of the country has declined in comparison to its 2009 report; (b) if so, the name of States where such decline has taken place and the reasons therefor; and (c) the steps that the Ministry proposes to take to address the issue and thereby increase the forest cover to 33 per cent as mentioned by National Forest Commission 2006 and Eleventh Five Year Plan documents?

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

(a) Yes Sir. According to the Forest Survey of India (FSI) Report, 2011, the forest cover of the country has declined by 367 km2 in comparison to its 2009 report.

(b) The names of States where there is decline in forest cover along with the reasons for decline in forest cover is given in Annexure.

(c) 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 31-10-2011, 800 FDA projects have been approved in 28 States in the country to treat an area of 18.32 lakh hectares since inception of the Scheme in 2002. Further, the funds released by the Ministry, for strengthening of forest protection, infrastructure, fire protection, demarcation of forest boundaries, construction of facilities for frontline staff and communication under the Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IIFMS), has contributed towards increase in the forest cover.

Annexure referred to in reply to part (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 12 due for answer on 13-03-2012 regarding ‘Decline in forest cover of the country’

States/UTs wise decline in forest cover in the country and reasons therefor

S. No States Change from ISFR 2009 (km 2) Major reasons for loss 1 Andhra Pradesh -281 Harvesting of short rotation crops and forest cover loss due to encroachment of forest land. 2 Gujarat -1 Harvesting of crops in outside forest areas, private felling in the TOF areas. 3 Kerala -24 Rotational harvesting of Eucalyptus, Teak, Acacia mangium etc. 4 -190 Shifting cultivation practices and biotic pressure, reduction in the rotation period (cycle) of the shifting cultivation. 5 -46 Shifting cultivation practices and biotic pressure, reduction in the rotation period (cycle) of the shifting cultivation. 6 Mizoram -66 Shifting cultivation practices and biotic pressure, reduction in the rotation period (cycle) of the shifting cultivation. Vast stretches of the cleared forest cover areas have been converted into horticultural crops. 7 -146 Shifting cultivation practices and biotic pressure, reduction in the rotation period (cycle) of the shifting cultivation. 8 -8 Shifting cultivation practices and biotic pressure, reduction in the rotation period (cycle) of the shifting cultivation. Clearing of rubber plantation. 9 Arunachal -74 Shifting cultivation practices and biotic pressure, reduction in Pradesh the rotation period (cycle) of the shifting cultivation. 10 Assam -19 Shifting cultivation practices and biotic pressure, reduction in the rotation period (cycle) of the shifting cultivation. 11 Maharashtra -4 Nominal loss owing to diversion of forest land for non 12 Chhattisgarh -4 forestry purposes, area under submergence (pondage) 13 Uttar Pradesh -3 (Chhattisgarh) Total -867

CENSUS OF TIGERS 13th March, 2012

RSQ 13

SHRI MOHAN SINGH

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

(a) whether Government has figured out the number of tigers in its annual counting at the rural level; (b) the total number of tigers counted this year and the increase in the number of tigers throughout the country; (c) whether poaching rackets were busted this year and the number of tigers killed by such rackets; and (d) the necessary steps proposed to be taken by Government to increase the number of tigers and for checking the poaching rackets to save the tigers?

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

(a) & (b) As per the recent all India estimation of tigers (2010) done once in every four years, the country level tiger population has shown an increasing trend with a 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. Initiatives have been taken for Phase-IV monitoring of tigers on an annual basis through States.

(c) A poaching nexus active in Uttarakhand-Uttar Pradesh has been recently busted. Details of tiger mortality due to poaching, as reported by States, are at Annexure-I.

(d) The milestone initiatives taken by the for protection and conservation of tigers are at Annexure-II.

ANNEXURE - I

ANNEXURE REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 13 ON CENSUS OF TIGERS ON 13.03.2012.

Details of Tiger Mortality due to poaching as reported by States

Sl. No. Year Number of tiger death 1. 2011 14 2. 2012 (as on 5.3.2012) 8

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 13 ON CENSUS OF TIGERS ON 13.03.2012.

Milestone initiatives (including the recent) taken by the Government of India for protection and conservation of tigers

Legal steps

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

2. Enhancement of punishment in cases of offence relating to a tiger reserve or its core area.

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 / home guards, apart from workforce comprising of local people, in addition to strengthening of communication / wireless facilities.

4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from 4.09.2006, 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 , 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 6.6.2007 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 (Orissa) and Mukundara Hills (including Darrah, Jawahar Sagar and Chambal Wildlife Sanctuaries) (Rajasthan). Final approval has been accorded to Kudremukh (Karnataka) and Kawal (Andhra Pradesh) for declaring as Tiger Reserves. Besides, the States 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) Satyamangalam (Tamil Nadu), (v) Guru Ghasidas National Park (Chhattisgarh), (vi) Mhadei Sanctuary (Goa) and (vii) Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel / Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries / Varushanadu Valley (Tamil Nadu).

7. The revised Project Tiger guidelines have been issued to States for strengthening tiger conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, interalia, include funding support to States for enhanced village relocation/rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh/family to Rs. 10 lakhs/family), rehabilitation/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/assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. An area of 32578.78 sq. km. has been notified by 16 Tiger States (out of 17) as core or critical tiger habitat under section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006 (Andhra Pradesh, , Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal). The State of Bihar has taken a decision for notifying the core or critical tiger habitat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

Financial steps

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

International Cooperation

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

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

13. 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 , with directions 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.

14. Based on India’s strong intervention during the 58th meeting of the Standing Committee of the CITES at Geneva from 6th to 10th July, 2009, the CITES Secretariat has issued a notification to Parties to submit reports relating to compliance of Decisions 14.69 and 14.65 within 90 days with effect from 20.10.2009 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.).

Reintroduction of Tigers

15. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers / tigresses have been done.

16. 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)

17. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of 29.2.2008, interalia, 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, the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. Rs. 93 lakhs each has been released to Corbett, Ranthambhore & Dudhwa Tiger Reserve for creation of STPF during 2008-09. Since then, the guidelines of the STPF have been revised for deploying forest personnel in place of Police as an option-II, with scope for involving local people like the Van Gujjars. During the year 2011-12, an amount of Rs. 3 crores has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for raising, arming and deploying the STPF.

18. 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

1. Implementing a tripartite MOU with tiger States, linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives.

2. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

4. 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.

5. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching ‘M-STrIPES’ for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

6. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

7. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

8. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves.

9. 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.

10. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

11. Increase in the allocation for Project Tiger with additional components.

12. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas.

13. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in , a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity / tiger conservation.

14. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and .

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO ROAD PROJECT IN AP 13th March, 2012

RSQ 14

SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH

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

(a) Whether the Ministry is aware that Andhra Pradesh (AP) Government’s proposal for construction 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 commutation facilities and minimize the activities in the larger public interest; (b) if so, the reasons for delay in giving clearance to this proposal; and (c) by when this proposal is likely to be cleared?

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

(a) to (c) Under the provisions of the EIA notification 2006, the environmental clearance to the new state highway projects is to be sought from the state level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). As per the information provided by Andhra Pradesh SEIAA, no such project proposal is pending for Environmental clearance.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR NH-16 FROM NIZAMABAD TO JAGDALPUR 13th March, 2012

RSQ 15

SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH

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

(a) the details of the proposal of Andhra Pradesh (AP) Government for diversion of 12.892 hectare of land in Chennur and Yenchapalli Reserve Forests of Mancherial Division for Construction of National Highway-16 from Nizamabad to Jagdalpur which will benefit the people of Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra in terms of connectivity; (b) the constraints felt in clearing this proposal and reasons for delay in according its approval; and (c) by when the clearance would be likely to be given?

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

(a) to (c): Government of Andhra Pradesh had submitted a proposal on 27.8.2009 for diversion of 12.892 hectare of forest land in Chennur and Yenchapalli Reserve Forests of Mancherial Division for formation of Road – National Highway-16 from Nizamabad to Jagadalpur to connect missing links to NH. Since part of the proposed forest area falls in Wildlife Sanctuary, the State Government was requested on 24.11.2009 to obtain required clearance from National Board for Wildlife and orders of the Hon’ble for consideration of the proposal. The State Government was also requested to examine the proposal for compliance of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 and furnish the information as per guidelines issued by the Ministry. Clearance under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 is dependent upon submission of complete proposal by the State Government.

NATIONAL MISSION FOR GREEN INDIA 13th March, 2012

RSQ 16

SHRI H.K. DUA

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

(a) the progress made by the National Mission for Green India and the afforestation campaign it was supposed to organize; (b) the number of trees that have been planted and the degraded forest land that has been brought under the forest cover under the Mission's plan; and (c) the new steps Government is taking to restore the lost forest cover?

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

(a) & (b) The National Mission for a Green one of the eight Missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change that 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 improve ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity & hydrological services. The Green India Mission envisages landscape approach and will be implemented by Gram Sabhas/ Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) with bottom up participatory mechanism through convergence with other cross sectoral programmes. The mission is to be implemented over 10 years from 2012-13 and the year 2011-12 being the preparatory year does not include plantation activity and covers identification of degraded and vulnerable landscapes from climate change, organization of workshops to sensitize stakeholders, strengthening of implementing institutions from village to state level, micro-planning, entry point activities, nursery preparation etc.

(c) The Ministry of Environment and forests is implementing a major scheme, National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining non forest areas through a decentralized and participatory mechanism involving JFMCs. Apart from NAP, large scale afforestation work to increase the forest cover is also being carried out by other Ministries under schemes like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), National Bamboo Mission etc.

PENDING IRRIGATION PROJECTS IN MAHARASHTRA 13th March, 2012

RSQ 17

DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE

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

(a) whether some irrigation projects of Maharashtra State are pending with the Government for environmental clearance; (b) if so, the details thereof and the present status of such irrigation projects; and (c) by when such irrigation projects are likely to be cleared?

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

(a) and (b) The proposals for Sapli Dam Project in Hingoli District of Maharashtra and Lendi Major Irrigation Project in Nanded District of Maharashtra and Nizamabad District of Andhra Pradesh are pending for environmental clearance. Additional information from Government of Maharashtra is awaited in respect of Lendi Project. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has received a representation against the Sapli Dam Project, clarifications regarding which have been received recently from the Government of Maharashtra.

(c) As per Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, the decision on proposal needs to be taken within 105 days from the receipt of complete information. ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE OF THE COUNTRY 13th March, 2012

RSQ 18

SHRIMATI KANIMOZHI:

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

(a) whether India has been rated to have the most toxic air in a study on Environmental Performance conducted by Universities of Yale and Columbia (USA); (b) the long term and short term plans to improve the country’s environmental performance; (c) whether the Government has taken any concrete steps to address this issue; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) A report on Environmental Performance Index (EPI), 2012 has been produced by a team of experts from the Yale Center for Environmental Law and Policy, Yale University and Center for International Earth Science Information Network, Columbia University. The report ranks 132 countries on 22 performance indicators tracked across 10 policy categories covering both environmental public health and ecosystem vitality. These indicators provide a gauge at a national government scale indicating how close countries are with regard to established environmental policy goals. India’s EPI rank is 125.

‘Air Pollution’ has been considered under two out of ten policy categories, i.e. effects on human health and ecosystem effects and, India has been ranked 132 on air quality. The report has not been peer reviewed.

(b) to (d) The factors responsible for pollution in India are well recognized. The Government has formulated sector-specific long term as well as short term action plans to combat pollution. The important steps taken, inter alia, include:

i. Formulation of regulations/statutes to address sectors-specific problems; ii. Setting up of regulatory bodies for enforcement of environmental laws; iii. Setting up of monitoring network for assessment of ambient water and air quality; iv. Implementation of action plans to treat municipal waste (sewage and solid) under the various centrally sponsored schemes; v. Creation of infrastructure for industrial pollution control incorporating cleaner production processes, setting up of common pollution control facilities; vi. Execution of source apportionment studies in select cities and formulation of action plans for air quality in cities.

RELAXATION OF COASTAL REGULATIONS ZONE NORMS 13th March, 2012

RSQ 19

SHRI TARIQ ANWAR

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

(a) Whether it is a fact that the State Government of Maharashtra has sent a request for relaxation of coastal regulations zone norms for car depots of the 32 km. long metro; (b) if so, the details thereof, and (c) how much time will be required for the clearance of this project?

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

(a) to (c): The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, Maharashtra had applied for Coastal Regulation Zone(CRZ) clearance for the construction of car depots at Charkop and Mankhurd, Mumbai including washing, repair and maintenance of trains in CRZ area. On examination of the proposal with respect to the provisions of the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991/2011, clearance was accorded on 20.12.2011 for the construction of car depots on stilts at Charkop and Mankhurd, Mumbai. However the washing, repair and maintenance activities were not granted as they are not permissible in the CRZ area as per the above notifications.

IMPLEMENTATION OF NATIONAL WETLAND CONSERVATION PROGRAMME 13th March, 2012

RSQ 20

DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY

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

(a) the details of the major wetlands in the country, State-wise; (b) whether certain deficiencies in the implementation of the National Wetland Conservation Programme have been brought to the notice of Government; (c) if so, the details thereof and the action taken to overcome such deficiencies; and (d) the steps being taken for conservation of wetlands in the country?

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

(a)Though there are number of wetlands in the country varying in size, Ministry has identified 115 wetlands in the country for undertaking conservation activities under National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP) which are given hundred percent financial assistance. State-wise list of these identified wetlands is annexed.

(b) &(c) Yes, Sir. Certain deficiencies have been noticed while executing National Wetland Conservation Programme in identified wetlands falling in various states. These include receipt of ad-hoc Management Action Plans (MAPs), inadequate consolidated research database to supplement execution of Management Action Plans, lack of infrastructure and expertise within state governments, constraint of adequate financial assistance and lack of sensitization to know about values and functions of wetlands.

(d) In order to overcome these deficiencies Ministry is providing 100 percent financial assistance for undertaking conservation activities in these wetlands for which an amount of Rs. 113.70 crore has been released to various state governments till date. Financial assistance is also provided to engage consultants for making Management Action Plans (MAP) for those states which lack expertise and infrastructure. We also organize capacity building programmes for training people in execution of MAPs. Ministry has also made elaborate guidelines for execution of MAPs in the field and identified priorities research areas to execute action plans in a more result oriented manner.

Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules have been notified in December, 2010 not to allow wetlands to be used beyond their carrying capacity. State Governments have also been advised to constitute Wetland Development Authorities (WDA) and to notify all wetlands under Wetland Rules.

ANNEXURE REFERED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 20 DUE FOR REPLY ON 13.03.2012 “IMPLEMENTATION OF NATIONAL WETLAND CONSERVATION PROGRAMME” BY DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY.

Sl. No. States/Union S.No. Name of Wetlands Territories 1. Andhra Pradesh 1. Kolleru 2. Assam 2. Deepar Beel 3. Urpad Beel 4. Sone Beel 3. Bihar 5. Kabar 6. Barilla 7. Kusheshwar Asthan 4. Gujarat 8. Nalsarovar 9. Great Rann of Kachh 10. Thol Bird Sanctuary 11. 12. Little Rann of Kachh 13. Pariej 14. Wadhwana 15. Nanikakrad 5. Haryana 16. Sultanpur 17. Bhindawas 6. Himachal Pradesh 18. Renuka 19. Pong Dam 20. Chandratal 21. Rewalsar 22. Khajjiar 7. Jammu & Kashmir 23. Wullar 24. Tso Morari 25. Tisgul Tso & Chisul Marshes 26. 27. Mansar-Surinsar 28. Ranjitsagar 29. Pangong Tsar 30. Gharana 31. Hygam, 32. Mirgund 33. Shalbugh 34. Chushul & Hanley 8. Jharkhand 35. Udhwa 36. Tilaiya Dam 9. Karnataka 37. Magadhi 38. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary 39. Bonal 40. Hidkal & Ghataprabha 41. Heggeri 42. Ranganthittu 43. K.G. Koppa wetland 10. Kerala 44. Ashtamudi 45. Sasthamkotta 46. Kottuli 47. Kadulandi 48. Vembnad Kol 11. Madhya Pradesh 49. Barna 50. Yashwant Sagar 51. Wetland of Ken River 52. National Chambal Sanctuary 53. Ghatigaon 54. Ratapani 55. Denwa Tawa wetland 56. 57. Pench Tiger Reserve 58. Sakhyasagar 59. Dihaila 60. Govindsagar 61. Sirpur 12. Maharashtra 62. Ujni 63. Jayakawadi 64. Nalganga wetland 13. Manipur 65. Loktak 14 Meghalaya 66. Umiam lake 15. Mizoram 67. Tamdil

68. Palak 16 Orissa 69. Chilka 70. Kuanria wetland 71. Kanjia wetland 72. Daha wetland 73. Anusupa 17. Punjab 74. Harike 75. Ropar 76. Kanjli 77. Nangal 18. Rajasthan 78. Sambhar 19. 79. Khechuperi Holy Lake 80. Tamze Wetland 81. Tembao Wetland Complex 82. Phendang Wetland Complex 83. Gurudokmar Wetland 84. Tsomgo wetland 20. Tamil Nadu 85. 86. Kaliveli 87. Pallaikarni 21. Tripura 88. Rudrasagar 89. Gumti reservoir 22. Uttar Pradesh. 90. Nawabganj 91. Sandi 92. Lakh Bahoshi 93. Samaspur 94. Alwara Wetland 95. Semarai Lake 96. Nagaria lake 97. 98. Shekha wetland 99. 100. Sarsai Nawar 101. Patna Bird Sanctuary 102. Chandotal 103. Taal Bhaghel 104. Taal Gambhirvan & Taal Salona 105. Aadi jal Jeev Jheel 23. Uttaranchal 106. Ban Ganga Jhilmil Tal 107. Asan 24. West Bengal 108. East Kolkata Wetland 109. Sunderbans 110. Ahiron Beel 111. Rasik Beel 112. Santragachi 113. Patlakhawa- Rasomati 25 (UT) 114. Sukhna 26 Puducherry ( UT) 115. Ousteri lake

ASSESSMENT OF PROGRESS OF NAPCC 13th March, 2012

RSQ 21

SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL

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

(a) Whether it is a fact that the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) has not been able to achieve the targets set by it under the Eleventh Five Year Plan; (b) If so, the details thereof? (c) Whether Government has conducted any assessment of the progress of the NAPCC; (d) If so, the details thereof; and (e) If not, the reasons therefore?

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

(a) and (b) The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released on June 30, 2008 outlining India’s strategy to meet the challenge of Climate Change. All the eight National Missions under NAPCC have been approved by Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change in the year 2011. The NAPCC does not have any specific target for the 11th Five Year Plan.

(c) to (e) Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change regularly reviews the matters connected with Climate Change including the implementation of the NAPCC. Meetings of Prime Minister’s Council on Climate Change were held during May, 2011 and November, 2011, to monitor status of implementation of all the eight National Missions under NAPCC.

CONSTRUCTION OF HOUSING PROJECTS ON WETLANDS 13th March, 2012

RSQ 22

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 construction of housing projects on wetlands; and (b) if so, the action taken thereon?

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

(a) & (b). Yes, Sir. A complaint was received regarding reclamation of wetland habitats in Bil Akbarpur, Greater Noida for township. A central team was sent to site to verify facts and on the basis of field inspection, a show cause notice was served to the builders. They were directed to stop any construction/earth filling/land reclamation work in the vicinity of wetlands and lands having the characteristics of wetlands.

INCREASE IN LION POPULATION IN GIR 13th March, 2012

RSQ 23

SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the rise in the number of Asiatic lions is posing a number of challenges; (b) whether it is a also a fact that the reserve forest area of Gir can ideally handle around 300 lions as per the census carried out last year; and (c) if so, the details of steps the Ministry is taking to save lions from falling into open wells? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) to (c) The lion population in Gir is managed by the State Government of Gujarat. The Ministry has not received any reports from the State Government, related to any challenges due to rise in number of lions.

BAN ON TOURISM IN CORE INVIOLATE AREAS RESERVED FOR TIGERS 13th March, 2012

RSQ 24

SHRI GOVINDRAO ADIK

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the Ministry has asked States to acquire 800 to 1000 square km. to provide core inviolate (empty) areas for tigers and ban tourism there; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government will provide financial assistance to States to acquire such areas: (d) whether this action would affect the tourism industry; and (e) if so, the reaction of Government thereon?

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

(a), (b) & (c) As per scientific empirical data, an inviolate area of 800-1200 sq. km. is required to sustain a population of tiger. Accordingly, guidelines have been issued to tiger States. Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, the relocation package has been enhanced from Rs. 1 lakh per family to Rs. 10 lakhs per family, besides 100% central assistance for acquisition of non-forest land falling in core areas to make them inviolate.

(d) & (e) A viable population of tiger / wildlife would foster tourism. Advisories have been issued to tiger range States for regulating tourist visitation in tiger reserves.

RESERVATION IN PROMOTION FOR ALL CATEGORIES 13th March, 2012

RSQ 25

SHRI AMBETH RAJAN

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

(a) whether reservation in promotion is strictly followed and implemented in the Ministry as per the provisions made in the Constitution through the 77th amendment; (b) if so, the details of promotion during the last five years in all categories; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; and (d) the tentative time by when the same will be completed?

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

(a) Yes, Sir. (b) Detail of promotions made in the Ministry during last past five years, category wise, is as under:

Group 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 GEN SC ST GEN SC ST GEN SC ST GEN SC ST GEN SC ST A 1 2 ------1 - - B 1 1 - 17 - 1 43 10 3 10 5 1 17 2 - C 3 1 1 5 - 1 - 1 - - 2 1 6 1 - D ------Total 5 4 1 22 - 2 43 11 3 10 7 2 24 3 -

(c) Not applicable

(d) Not applicable

DECLINE IN FOREST COVER 13th March, 2012

RSQ 26

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) whether it is a fact that forests areas in India has declined from the limit fixed by national forest policy due to large scale felling of tress by and for other purposes; (b) if so, the details of measures being taken to increase the forest areas to the limit fixed; (c) whether Madhya Pradesh is the State with largest forest covered areas; and (d) the details of felling and plantation of trees, respectively, in the country during the last three years?

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

(a) No Sir. There is no decline in the forest cover due to large scale felling of tress by naxalites and for other purposes. However, the Forest and Tree cover of the country is 78.29 million hectares, as per the 2011 assessment, which shows a decrease of 367 sq. km in the country’s cover in comparison to 2009 assessment after taking into account the interpretation changes.

(b) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Afforestation Programme (NAP) Scheme 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.

(c) The State of Madhya Pradesh has the largest forest cover in the country of 77,700 km 2 as per the India State of Forest Report 2011.

(d) The details of felling of trees and plantations in the country during last three years are given in Annexure I and Annexure II respectively.

Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (d) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 26 due for answer on 13-03-2012 regarding ‘Decline in forest cover’

Number of illegal felling of trees reported for the years 2007-08, 2008-09 and 2009-2010

S.No States 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 1 Andhra Pradesh 24795 38492 28222 2 Goa 155 237 207 3 Gujarat 5825 5482 5585 4 Haryana 4545 6317 - 5 Jharkhand 307 192 114 6 Karnataka 3811 4077 2301 7 Orissa 71922 65221 - 8 Rajasthan 11217 11662 9879 9 West Bengal 1067 1094 581 10 Nagaland Nil Nil Nil 11 A&N Island 3 0 2 12 Chandigarh Nil Nil Nil 13 Lakshdweep Nil Nil Nil 14 Delhi Nil Nil Nil

Annexure-II referred to in reply to part (d) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 26 due for answer on 13-03-2012 regarding ‘Decline in forest cover’

Details of plantations reported for the years 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 under National Afforestation Programme (NAP)

S. No States Area in hectares 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 1 Andhra Pradesh 4182 2341 5453 2 Bihar 3475 0 5647 3 Chhattisgarh 8450 1177 8370 4 Goa 0 0 0 5 Gujarat 4920 1760 11150 6 Haryana 5526 1100 3145 7 Himachal Pradesh 1255 1646 2566 8 Jammu & Kashmir 3550 0 0 9 Jharkhand 9980 0 0 10 Karnataka 2200 0 9523 11 Kerala 1095 666 2947 12 Madhya Pradesh 6188 13000 10219 13 Maharashtra 7219 0 7934 14 Orissa 1745 0 7410 15 Punjab 547 0 625 16 Rajasthan 6800 400 3300 17 Tamil Nadu 4025 0 2984 18 Uttar Pradesh 9664 3340 12435 19 Uttarakhand 4065 5167 5058 20 West Bengal 615 2815 2360 Sub Total (Other States) 85501 33412 101126 21 Arunachal Pradesh 1750 3125 0 22 Assam 3625 0 0 23 Manipur 1525 3599 1945 24 Meghalaya 800 4800 3930 25 Mizoram 2700 2370 2600 26 Nagaland 4050 2000 4500 27 Sikkim 2225 1549 2230 28 Tripura 1380 6271 6220 Sub Total (North Eastern States) 18055 23714 21425 TOTAL 103556 57126 122551

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO NEW THERMAL POWER PLANTS 13th March, 2012

RSQ 27

SHRI P. RAJEEVE

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

(a) the number of companies which have been accorded environmental clearances to set up coal or gas based thermal power plants from 2004, till date; (b) the total proposed power generating capacity of the above plants; (c) the country’s projected thermal power requirement until 2032; (d) the percentage of the proposed thermal projects that are in the pipeline which are coal-based; (e) whether it is a fact that at present, even existing domestic coal-based plants are short on coal supply; and (f) whether land for these proposed plants has been acquired under provisions of the Land Acquisition Act, 1984?

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

(a) & (b) A total of 360 coal and gas based thermal power plants with an installed capacity of 2,71,102 MW have been accorded environmental clearances from 2004 till date after following the due procedure laid in the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notifications, 1994 and 2006.

(c) & (d) As per the Integrated Energy Policy of the Planning Commission, the thermal power demand by 2031-32 is estimated to be about 4.0 Lac MW. As on date 17 thermal power plants are pending for environmental clearances of which 89% constitute coal based thermal power plants.

(e) For the year 2011-12, out of 455 million tonne of estimated indigenous coal demand, availability of coal was indicated as 402 million tonne, thereby resulting in a shortfall of 53 million tonne of coal. To bridge the gap between demand and supply of indigenous coal, power utilities have been assigned a target of 35 million tonne to import coal.

(f) Prior possession/acquisition of land is not a pre-requisite for consideration of a proposal for environmental clearance of a thermal power plant. However, for environmental appraisal, land-use of the area of the proposed power plant and its location with respect to proximity of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves, tiger reserves, elephant corridor etc are considered.

VIOLATION OF ENVIRONMENT AND FOREST CLEARANCE NORMS 13th March, 2012

RSQ 28

SHRIMATI VIPLOVE THAKUR

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

(a) whether the environment and forest clearance norms are being violated in many States in the country, including in Himachal Pradesh; (b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise and the action taken/being taken by Government against the guilty in this regard; and (c) the measures taken/being taken by Government for the strict compliance of environment and forest clearance norms in the country?

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

(a) & (b) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has set up six Regional Offices located at Bangalore, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Lucknow and Shillong to inter-alia monitor the implementation of conditions and safeguards stipulated by the Ministry while granting clearance to development projects under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. As per the monitoring reports submitted by these Regional Offices, the State-wise details of the reported partial compliance / non-compliance of the environment clearance conditions during the year 2011-2012 are given in the Annexure.

The state-wise information relating to non-compliance of forestry clearance conditions is being collected. Based on the reported non-compliances, follow-up action has been taken including issuance of show-cause notices and directions under section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

(c) Various measures have been taken for improving the compliance of the stipulated environment and forestry clearance conditions which inter-alia include involvement of the State Governments and their agencies like State Pollution Control Boards, putting the monitoring reports on the websites of the companies in public domain and rigorous follow-up with the project proponents. Annexure State-wise details of the reported partial compliance / non compliance of the stipulated environment clearance conditions during 2011-12

No. of projects in which partial compliance/non-compliance of stipulated Sl. No. State/UTs environmental conditions reported during the year 2011-2012

1 Andhra Pradesh 16 2 Assam 9 3 Delhi 4 4 Goa 37 5 Haryana 86 6 Himachal Pradesh 38 7 Jammu & Kashmir 3 8 Karnataka 13 9 Meghalaya 1 10 Orissa 10 11 Punjab 42 12 Rajasthan 12 13 Tamil Nadu 29 14 Uttar Pradesh 24 15 Uttarakhand 11 16 West Bengal 2

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE NORMS FOR CEMENT AND HYDROPOWER PROJECTS 13th March, 2012

RSQ 29

SHRIMATI VIPLOVE THAKUR

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

(a) whether Government proposes to put in the place stricter norms for grant of mandatory environment and forests clearance for cement projects and hydropower projects in the country including Himachal Pradesh; (b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; (c) whether it is a fact that Government has found a great amount of plagiarism in proposals received by Government for grant of environment and forest clearance; and (d) if so, the details thereof, project-wise and the steps Government has taken/being taken on such proposals?

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

(a) & (b): As per the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, prior environmental clearance is mandatory from the Ministry of Environment and Forests for the ‘A’ Category projects and from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) for the ‘B’ Category projects listed in its schedule. As per the said notification, all cement projects, River Valley and Hydro Power Projects of more than 25 MW capacity and all irrigation projects require prior environment clearance. Environmental clearance to such projects is accorded subject to stipulation of stringent environmental safeguards and compliance to environmental standards notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and its Rules notified from time to time.

Approval of the Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non- forest purpose including for cement and hydropower projects, are accorded in accordance with the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines issued under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.

(c) & (d): To enhance the quality of Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Reports for obtaining environmental clearance, a system of Accreditation of EIA Consultants with Quality (QCI)/National Accreditation Board of Education & Training (NABET) has been introduced. In case of specific instances of plagiarism, coming to the notice of the Ministry, appropriate action will be undertaken.

TRANSFER OF FUNDS TO GUJARAT STATE CAMPA

13th March, 2012

RSQ 30

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 482.34 crores in ad-hoc Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA} of the Central Government ; (b) whether it is also a fact that, so far, only 54.12 crores has been released against the deposited amount of 482.34 crores; (c) if so, whether Government intends to transfer the amount of 482.34 crores deposited by Gujarat into the account of Gujarat State CAMPA; and (d) what action has been taken so far, to return the remaining amount into Gujarat State CAMPA?

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

(a) as per the records furnished by the Government of Gujarat, the total cumulative deposits in the accounts in the name of the Gujarat Compensatory Afforestation Fund/ Gujarat State CAMPA are 583,47,39,564=00 ;

(b) against the Annual Plans of Operation for the years 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12, the amounts released to the Gujarat State CAMPA were 24,96,47,000.00 (released on 19th August, 2009); 29,15,68,000.00 (released on 1st October, 2010) and 26,30,00,000.00 (released on 8th September, 2011). The total cumulative release comes to 80,42,15,000.00;

(c) & (d) in terms of the order dated 10th July, 2009 passed by the Supreme Court of India in IA No.2143 in Writ Petition No.202 of 1995 titled T N Godavarman Thirumalpad Vs. Union of India & Ors, the annual releases to State CAMPAs have to be limited, inter-alia, to about Rs.1,000 crores for the next five years. The extant orders of the Supreme Court of India do not contemplate release of the total funds deposited by the States, to the State CAMPAs.

POLLUTION OF RIVERS IN ASSAM 13th March, 2012

RSQ 31

SHRIMATI NAZNIN FARUQUE

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

(a) whether Government is aware of the problem of wide-scale pollution of the Bharalu, Deeper , Burhidihing and Brahmaputra rivers of Assam; (b) whether Government has examined the pollution level of these rivers by sending a Central team to Assam; (c) whether Government is formulating any action plan to eradicate the problem of pollution of Burhidihing and Brahmaputra; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), based on their monitoring, have identified polluted river stretches and water bodies of the country. According to this, four rivers from Assam namely; Bharalu, Kalong, Deeper Bill and Burhidihing have been found to be polluted.

(c) & (d) The Government of Assam had submitted project proposals for pollution abatement of Bharalu and Kalong rivers at an estimated cost of Rs 223 crores and Rs.74.86 crores respectively to the National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD). These proposals were examined and returned to the Government of Assam with comments and observations.

STUDY ON IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE 13th March, 2012

RSQ 32

SHRIMATI NAZNIN FARUQUE

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

(a) Whether Government has made any study on the impact of climate change including changing monsoon pattern and the manner in which the countries agriculture sector is affected; and (b) If so, the details thereof ?

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

(a) and (b) There is no conclusive evidence to attribute all observed weather and climate variability to the increased concentrations of Green House Gases (GHGs) and associated global warming and their projections for the future. However, gradual increasing trend in respect of surface temperature (maximum and minimum) across the globe is found to be in line with the rise of GHGs over the recent decades. Daily mean temperature over the country is found to be increasing more or less at the same rate as the global mean (0.52oC since 1901). Spatial pattern of trends in the mean annual temperature shows significant positive (increasing) trend over most parts of the country except over parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat and Bihar, where significant negative (decreasing) trends were observed.

Further, a study to assess the impact of climate change on four sectors in four regions of India 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 Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. The report has assessed impacts of climate change on four sectors including Agriculture, and projects a variable rate of change in agriculture production including losses in some crops such as mustard, peas, tomatoes, onion and garlic.

URBAN GARBAGE WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM 13th March, 2012

RSQ 33

SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA

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

(a) the details of steps taken by Government in coordination with State Governments to adopt scientific urban garbage waste management system to tackle sharp rise in urban garbage to avoid soil pollution and water pollution as there is lack of proper infrastructure in this regard; and (b) the quantum of fund allocated during the last three years and in the process to allocate to the State Government of Gujarat in this regard ?

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

(a) & (b) Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified Municipal Solid Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules, 2000 and the Plastic Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011, to ensure proper collection, storage, segregation, transportation, processing and disposal of municipal solid waste including plastic waste. Government of Gujarat has constituted a nodal agency, namely Gujarat Urban Development Company Ltd. (GUDCL) for development of infrastructure for treatment, transportation and disposal of municipal solid waste. The concept of common landfill for a cluster of tours/cities has been adopted in the State for treatment and disposal of the municipal solid waste. The GUDCL has identified 17 clusters for such Regional Landfill sites in the State. The Gujarat Pollution Control Board has conducted a series of seminars, workshops and group meetings with local bodies to create awareness about the provisions of the Municipal Solid Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules, 2000. It has also initiated steps for use of municipal solid waste in co-processing in cement manufacturing industries. In the last three years, Ministry of Environment and Forests has released an amount of Rs. 70 Lakhs to Gujarat for the project on modernization of solid waste management practices in 12 cities and towns of Ahmadabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) area.

NIRA-DEOGARH PROJECT AT SATARA DISTRICT, MAHARASHTRA 13th March, 2012

RSQ 34

DR. YOGENDRA P.TRIVEDI

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

(a) whether the State Government of Maharashtra has sent a demand to the Central Government for allotting 1.98 hectares of forest land at Satara district near Pune for the Nira-Deoghar Project; and (b) if so, the date on which the said demand was sent and the present status thereof?

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

(a) & (b) Diversion of 55.15 ha of forest land for the Nira-Deogarh Major Irrigation Project had been approved by the Ministry of Environment & Forests during May 2000.The Government of Maharashtra submitted a proposal involving additional forest land of 1.98 ha during October 2007. ‘In principle’ approval for this additional land required had been accorded during September 2008 .Final approval for diversion of the said forest land will be issued by the Ministry on receipt of the compliance of all the conditions of ‘in principle’ approval. .

CONSERVATION OF BIL AKBARPUR WETLANDS 13th March, 2012

RSQ 35

SHRI GOVINDRAO ADIK

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the Ministry has issued a notice to Ansal API to stop work on the Bil Akbarpur wetlands near Delhi; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that the number of wetlands in the area has decreased; and (d) the effective steps the Ministry is taking to protect Bil Akbarpur wetlands?

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

(a) & (b). Yes, Sir. On the basis of the complaint received regarding reclamation of wetland habitats in Bil Akbarpur, Greater Noida by Ansal Private Limited, a central team was sent for the site inspection for verification

of facts. On the basis of field inspection, a show cause notice was issued to the builders 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.

(c) & (d). Though there are no corroborative evidences to show decrease of number of wetlands in this area, however, wetlands in are decreasing due to conversion, loss of biodiversity, discharge of untreated sewage and industrial effluents leading to excessive eutrophication, proliferation of aquatic weeds, over exploitation of floral and faunal resources, encroachment, etc. In order not to use wetlands beyond their carrying capacity, the Government has very recently notified Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules 2010. All the state governments have been advised to notify all wetlands so that they are regulated as per these rules.

CONSERVATION OF SON BIRDS IN MADHYA PRADESH 13th March, 2012

RSQ 36

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) whether the Ministry has received any proposal from the State Government of Madhya Pradesh for the conservation of Son birds in Shivpuri, Gwalior, Dhar and Ratlam of Madhya Pradesh; (b) if so, the present status of the said proposal; (c) whether any time-limit has been fixed for the disposal of the proposal; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) Yes, Sir. (b) Financial assistance has not been released against the proposal so far. (c) and (d) No time limit has been fixed for the disposal of the proposal.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO ZOOS IN THE COUNTRY 20th March, 2012

RSQ * 84

SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI

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

(a) whether Government is giving financial assistance to zoos in the country; (b) if so, the State-wise details thereof during the Eleventh Five Year Plan; (c) the amount spent so far, project-wise and State-wise, during the Plan period; and (d) the future action plan prepared to protect the zoos across the country in coordination with the local people?

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

(a), (b), (c) and (d) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b), (c) AND (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO *84 REGARDING ‘FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO ZOOS IN THE COUNTRY’ BY SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.3.2012.

(a) Yes, Sir. The Central Zoo Authority, a statutory body of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, provides some financial assistance to zoos in the country.

(b) The State-wise details of funds released in the Eleventh Five Year Plan are given at ANNEXURE-I.

(c) The details of amount spent so far project-wise and State-wise for the Eleventh Plan period are given at ANNEXURE-II.

(d) For the protection and improvement of zoos across the country, the Central Zoo Authority has formulated detailed guidelines for scientific management of zoos for adoption and implementation by the zoo operators. To involve local people including interested persons and students, guidelines for utilization of services of volunteers for assisting in management of zoos have also been formulated by the Authority.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO *84 REGARDING ‘FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO ZOOS IN THE COUNTRY’ BY SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.3.2012.

Details of state-wise grants provided by the central zoo authority to the zoos during the 11th five year plan period, i.e., 2007-08 to 2011-12 (Amount in Rupees) S. No. Name of the State 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 (as on 10.02.2012) 1. Andhra Pradesh 17435000 11322000 20500000 14435000 13075200 2. Arunachal Pradesh 15870400 5147000 8850000 7867000 3. Assam 5219000 5198000 1780000 8070000 4324000 4. Chhattisgarh 80000 80000 5. Delhi 18953000 7041500 6. Goa 675000 7. Gujarat 9382761 240000 130000 7737000 8. Haryana 40000 1137000 2160000 9. Himachal Pradesh 9571000 360000 40000 10. Jharkhand 1064900 4210000 440000 60000 11. Karnataka 12255000 17985000 14810000 16695000 12729000 12. Madhya Pradesh 16449000 3093000 8064000 2300000 2386000 13. Maharashtra 7324000 480000 18244000 4380000 1251500 14. Manipur 425000 3000000 2498000 15. Mizoram 11049000 1040000 15902000 2280000 3550000 16. Nagaland 8906000 15733000 17. Odisha 5600000 2610000 2000000 1302000 3700000 18. Punjab 2586000 5930000 130000 2333000 19. Rajasthan 6876000 6600000 7840000 6400000 6860000 20. Sikkim 353000 21. Tamil Nadu 16641000 22709000 27230000 21796250 9317647 22. Tripura 7323000 4045000 12699650 1595900 23. Uttar Pradesh 394000 1444000 510000 5715500 1975000 24. Uttarakhand 1062000 50000 25. West Bengal 6085500 13305000 13322000 16793600 17453800 TOTAL 146645161 139091900 144007000 133474000 104693047

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *84 REGARDING ‘FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO ZOOS IN THE COUNTRY’ BY SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.03.2012.

Details of state-wise, project-wise grants provided by the central zoo authority to the zoos during the 11th five year plan period, i.e., 2007-08 to 2011-12

Name of the Project title 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 State (as on 10.02.2012) Andhra Pradesh Preparation of Master Plan 120000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 5485000 Veterinary and Health Care 100000 480000 Security 3750000 Cost of feed article for animals in 5600000 13955000 9085000 Rescue Centre

Rescue Centre Facility 7690000 2600000 11900000 2930200 Research 60000 122000 Breeding of Endangered Species 4100000 3000000 4800000 In Captivity Training and Workshops 940000 Total 17435000 11322000 20500000 14435000 13075200 Arunachal Preparation of Master Plan 80000 80000 Pradesh Animal Housing Facility 14583000 8552000 6138000 Veterinary and Health Care 542400 298000 328000 Education and Awareness 250000 Water Supply, Sewage and 665000 Electricity Breeding of Endangered Species 5067000 1151000 In Captivity Total 15870400 5147000 8850000 7867000 Assam Animal Transportation Cost 35000 Preparation of Master Plan 160000 Animal Housing Facility 5219000 2748000 1213000 6413000 Security 750000 Water Supply, Sewage and 1700000 Electricity Construction of Visitor’s Path and 372000 144500 Maintenance Breeding of Endangered Species 4324000 In Captivity Training and Workshops 1240000 Others 272500 Total 5219000 5198000 1780000 8070000 4324000 Chhattisgarh Preparation of Master Plan 80000 80000 Total 80000 80000 Delhi Preparation of Master Plan 480000 Animal Housing Facility 9113000 5704500 Security 8066000 Construction of Visitor’s Path and 1337000 Maintenance Storage, Supply and Distribution 1200000 of Food Others 94000 Total 18953000 7041500 Goa Veterinary and Health Care 275000 Education and Awareness 75000 Hygiene And Environment 75000 Improvement Storage, Supply and Distribution 250000 of Food Total 675000 Gujarat Preparation of Master Plan 240000 80000 470000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 4170000 6267000 Veterinary and Health Care 92761 Security 1000000 Water Supply, Sewage and 3020000 Electricity Breeding of Endangered Species 2100000 In Captivity Total 9382761 240000 130000 7737000 Haryana Preparation of Master Plan 40000 120000 Animal Housing Facility 960000 Veterinary and Health Care 200000 Security 1000000 Training and Workshops 1017000 Total 40000 1137000 2160000 Himachal Preparation of Master Plan 40000 40000 Pradesh Breeding of Endangered Species 9571000 In Captivity Training and Workshops 320000 Total 9571000 360000 40000 Jharkhand Animal Transportation Cost 163000 Preparation of Master Plan 160000 340000 60000 Purchase of Computer for use in 100000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 300000 3500000 Veterinary and Health Care 501900

Education and Awareness 100000 Water Supply, Sewage and 250000 Electricity Construction of Visitor’s Path and 300000 Maintenance Total 1064900 4210000 440000 60000 Karnataka Preparation of Master Plan 160000 80000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 1545000 5130000 2475000 255000 Veterinary and Health Care 610000 1995000 1570000 Security 1555000 Water Supply, Sewage and 749000 Electricity Cost of feed article for animals in 8486000 16375000 9650000 Rescue Centre Rescue Centre Facility 1614000 10700000 9550000 5000

Research 100000 Storage, Supply and Distribution 500000 of Food Breeding of Endangered Species 1000000 In Captivity Training and Workshops 320000 Total 12255000 17985000 14810000 16695000 12729000 Madhya Preparation of Master Plan 160000 Pradesh Animal Housing Facility 9706000 833000 Security 3064000 Water Supply, Sewage and 586000 2500000 Electricity Cost of feed article for animals in 900000 2100000 2300000 2386000 Rescue Centre Rescue Centre Facility 1157000 2500000 Breeding of Endangered Species 4100000 In Captivity Total 16449000 3093000 8064000 2300000 2386000 Maharashtra Preparation of Master Plan 480000 140000 40000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 4877000 12809000 1440000 Veterinary and Health Care 5060000 Security 700000 Water Supply, Sewage and 2200000 Electricity Cost of feed article for animals in 2262000 Rescue Centre Research 185000 185000 Training and Workshops 1251500 Total 7324000 480000 18244000 4380000 1251500 Manipur Veterinary and Health Care 425000 Breeding of Endangered Species 3000000 2498000 In Captivity Total 425000 3000000 2498000 Mizoram Preparation of Master Plan 240000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 5000000 261000 12975000 300000 2050000 Veterinary and Health Care 200000 Security 739000 739000 1237000 1600000 Education and Awareness 600000 Water Supply, Sewage and 250000 Electricity Construction of Visitor’s Path and 200000 Maintenance

Research 60000 40000 Hygiene And Environment 180000 Improvement Breeding of Endangered Species 5250000 In Captivity Others 350000 1500000 Total 11049000 1040000 15902000 2280000 3550000 Nagaland Animal Housing Facility 3773000 7871000 Veterinary and Health Care 200000 Security 2282500 123000 Education and Awareness 50000

Water Supply, Sewage and 2850500 Electricity Hygiene And Environment 120000 Improvement Storage, Supply and Distribution 1520000 of Food Breeding of Endangered Species 4710000 In Captivity Others 1139000 Total 8906000 15733000 Odisha Animal Transportation Cost 700000 Preparation of Master Plan 160000 Animal Housing Facility 1500000 1380000 2000000 750000 Security 500000 Water Supply, Sewage and 290000 250000 Electricity Research 680000 1050000 Hygiene And Environment 100000 Improvement Breeding of Endangered Species 4100000 In Captivity Training and Workshops 1180000 450000 Others 122000 Total 5600000 2610000 2000000 1302000 3700000 Punjab Preparation of Master Plan 160000 80000 240000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 1735000 1393000 Veterinary and Health Care 700000 Security 851000 Education and Awareness 150000 Breeding of Endangered Species 5620000 In Captivity Total 2586000 5930000 130000 2333000 Rajasthan Preparation of Master Plan 50000 40000 70000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Cost of feed article for animals in 6400000 Rescue Centre Rescue Centre Facility 6826000 6600000 7800000 6740000 Total 6876000 6600000 7840000 6400000 6860000 Sikkim Preparation of Master Plan 40000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Xerox Machine 80000 Security 183000 Total 353000 Tamil Nadu Preparation of Master Plan 160000 80000 110000 260000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 718000 11770000 13710000 11798000 Veterinary and Health Care 1425000 199000 762000 Security 5780000 3408000 1700000 212500 Education and Awareness 1780000 Water Supply, Sewage and 1840000 Electricity Construction of Visitor’s Path and 2794000 Maintenance

Cost of feed article for animals in 4800000 7122000 7483147 Rescue Centre

Rescue Centre Facility 5801000 8202000 600000 Research 142250 Hygiene And Environment 1313000 Improvement Training and Workshops 924000 Others 2750000 Total 16641000 22709000 27230000 21796250 9317647 Tripura Preparation of Master Plan 120000 Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 4284000 13650 Veterinary and Health Care 1154000 Security 3884000 Research 193000 Hygiene And Environment 111000

Improvement Storage, Supply and Distribution 271900 of Food Breeding of Endangered Species 2846000 12686000 In Captivity Others 50000 Total 7323000 4045000 12699650 1595900 Uttar Pradesh Preparation of Master Plan 40000 360000 240000 Purchase of Computer for use in 150000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 404000 1704500 1675000 Security 1000000 3286000 Construction of Visitor’s Path and 485000 Maintenance Research 300000 Breeding of Endangered Species 394000 In Captivity Total 394000 1444000 510000 5715500 1975000 Uttarakhand Purchase of Computer for use in 50000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 1062000 Total 1062000 50000 West Bengal Animal Transportation Cost 142000 500000 Preparation of Master Plan 120000 240000 Purchase of Computer for use in 100000 ARKS Software Animal Housing Facility 6709000 9381000 13805000 1982000 Security 10164800 Water Supply, Sewage and 3391000 1500000 Electricity Cost of feed article for animals in 2800000 Rescue Centre Rescue Centre Facility 5943000 2600000 3100000 2835000 Research 142500 485000 359000 188600 256000 Others 216000 Total 6085500 13305000 13322000 16793600 17453800 Total States 25 Grand Total 146645161 139091900 144007000 133474000 104693047

ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE TO HYDRO PROJECT IN PUNE 20th March, 2012

RSQ *95

SHRI

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

(a) whether Government has accorded sanction for forest land to be used in the hydro project at Panshet Varasgaon in Pune, Maharashtra; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; and (d) the time by when Government will take a final decision in the matter?

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

(a),(b),(c) and (d) A statement is laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred to in reply to parts (a), (b), (c) and (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.95 by Shri Prakash Javedekar regarding Environment Clearance to hydro project in Pune to be replied on 20.03.2012.

(a) Proposal for diversion of forest land for hydro project at Panshet Varasgaon in Pune, Maharashtra under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 has not been received by the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

(b), (c) & (d) Do not arise in view of (a) above.

LOSS OF FOREST LAND FOR ESTABLISHING NEW INDUSTRIES 20th March, 2012

RSQ 628

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) whether the Ministry has made any assessment about the loss of forest land after 1991 till today for new mines, industries, roads and coal; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the number of applications of industries, mines, coal and roads pending for environment and forest clearance for more than two years; and (d) whether it is a fact that many Public Sector Units got the coal block surrendered as they could not get the clearance of the Ministry?

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

(a) to (c) During the period from 01.01.1991 to 15.03.2012 the Central Government accorded 20,267 approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 8,64,178.79 hectares of forest land. Category-wise details of the projects for which the said approvals have been accorded by the Central Government along with number of proposals seeking prior approval of the Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, which are pending before the Central Government for a more than two years, excluding the proposals where additional information/ documents sought from the concerned State/UT Governments and the concerned user agencies have not been received by the Central Government, so far is annexed.

Similarly, the number of applications seeking environment clearance for industries, mines, coals and roads projects pending for more than two years are as below:

Mines (non-coal sectors) : 06 Industries: Nil Coal Mines: 01 Roads: Nil

(d) Ministry of Environment did not receive information that many Public Sector Units got the coal blocks surrendered as they could not get the clearance of the Ministry.

Annexure referred to in answer to parts (a) to (c) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 628 on “Loss of forest land for establishing new industries” asked by Shri Rama Chandra Khuntia for reply on 20.03.2012. Category-wise details of the projects for which approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land has been accorded by the Central Government during the period from 01.01.1991 to 15.03.2012 along with number of applications seeking prior approval of the Central Government under the afore-mentioned Act which are pending before the Central Government for a period more than two years (as on 15.03.2012)

Details of approval accorded under No. of applications pending before the the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 MoEF and its Regional Offices for more during the period from 1.1.1991 to than two years, excluding the proposals Category of the Projects 15.03.2012 where additional information/ No. of Area diverted (in documents have been sought from the Proposals hectares) State/ UT Govts. and project proponents Defence Projects 216 29,306.66 0 Dispensary/Hospitals 24 109.45 0 Regularization of Encroachments 15 2,63,163.71 0 Drinking Water Projects 1,181 2,066.13 1

Details of approval accorded under No. of applications pending before the the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 MoEF and its Regional Offices for more during the period from 1.1.1991 to than two years, excluding the proposals Category of the Projects 15.03.2012 where additional information/ No. of Area diverted (in documents have been sought from the Proposals hectares) State/ UT Govts. and project proponents Conversion of forest villages 16 41,170 0 Hydel Projects 433 59,901.90 1 Irrigation Projects 1,555 81,235.26 2 Mining other than Coal Mining 1,309 77,661.62 12 Projects Coal Mining Projects 266 55,722.54 2 Other Projects 7,263 1,54,785.79 15 Railway Projects 246 6,798.88 0 Rehabilitation Proposals 42 17,359.62 0 Road Projects 5,712 40,268.88 8 Schools 95 2,482.97 0 Thermal Power Projects 35 4,093.54 0 Transmission Lines 1,775 24,201.29 3 Village Electrification Projects 16 40.62 0 Wind Power Projects 68 3,809.93 1 Total 20,267 8,64,178.79 45

UTILIZATION OF FOREST LAND IN ASSAM BY INDUSTRIES 20th March, 2012

RSQ 629

SHRIMATI NAZNIN FARUQUE

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

(a) the percentage of land covered under forests in Assam; (b) the details of forest land being used by mining, industry, power sector etc. in the State so far; (c) how those sectors, utilizing forest land, are compensating for the development of people living in those areas of forests; and (d) the various measures including afforestation taken by the various beneficiary Ministries in this regard?

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, the forest cover in the State of Assam, based on interpretation of satellite data of Nov 2008 – Jan 2009 is 27,673 sq. km which is 35.28% of the State’s geographical area.

(b) Total forest area used by different sectors so far

(i) Mining - 173.36 hectare (ii) Industry - 326.380 hectare (iii) Power - 673.45 hectare

(c) These sectors are compensating by ensuring development of people living in those forest areas by engaging the local people in their activities for their livelihood and employment generation.

(d) The user agencies engaged in mining, industry, power etc. provide fund for execution of various developmental activities including afforestation activities through Forest Department of the respective States.

TROPICAL CYCLONES DUE TO AIR POLLUTION 20th March, 2012

RSQ 630

SHRI SHRI BALAVANT ALIAS BAL APTE

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

(a) whether it is a fact that an increase in air pollution in the Indian Subcontinent because of diesel fumes and biomass burning is enhancing intensity of tropical cyclones in the Arabian Sea; and (b) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) The ambient air quality is being monitored across the country under the National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP). There are 518 operating stations under NAMP covering 216 cities, towns and industrial areas in 26 States and 5 Union Territories as on 29.02.2012. Three pollutants, namely, Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and PM10 (particulate matter having size less than 10 micron) are being monitored at all stations.

The monitored data for ambient air for the last three years (2008, 2009 and 2010) reveals that levels of 3 SO2 (annual average - 50 µg/m ) are within the prescribed national ambient air quality norms across the 3 country and that of NO2 (annual average - 40 µg/m ) are within norms in most of cities and towns. 3 However, the level of PM10 (annual average - 60 µg/m ) exceed the prescribed norms in a majority of cities and towns. A fluctuating/mixed trend is being observed and NO2 is an upcoming pollutant.

As per India Meteorological Department (IMD), the frequency of cyclones and their intensification into severe cyclones over the Arabian Sea do not show any significant trend based on the recorded history of IMD (1891 – 2010) which includes the satellite era (1961-2010). As the annual frequency is very less over the Arabian Sea, the decadal frequency has been analysed by IMD to find out the probability of intensification of cyclone into severe cyclone. The analysis shows that there is no significant trend in intensification of cyclones into severe cyclones over the Arabian Sea.

INFORMATION RELATING TO PROJECT CLEARANCE WEBSITE 20th March, 2012

RSQ 631

SHRI SANJAY RAUT SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that vital information related to project clearance is missing on the Ministry’s website; (b) whether it is a fact that the Central Information Commission has directed the Ministry to post entire information about project clearances on its website by April; (c) if so, the details of the information being put on the website; and (d) the appropriate action the Ministry is taking to improve transparency in project clearance process?

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

(a) to (d) Information pertaining to project clearances like Agenda of Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) meetings, minutes of the meetings, copies of scoping clearance & Terms of Reference (ToRs) for the preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment/Environment Management Plan Reports, Environment Clearance letters etc. are regularly uploaded on the website of the Ministry. All Acts, Rules, Guidelines and circulars related to environmental clearance for developmental projects and constitution of EACs are available on the website of the

Ministry. The Central Information Commission has directed the Ministry to post Form-1, Form-1A, additional information received from the Project Proponents in response to the queries of EAC, site visit reports and site specific study reports on the website of the Ministry from 1st April, 2012. As per the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006, relevant information pertaining to the environment clearance, as mentioned above is posted on the website of the Ministry.

STEEP RISE IN RIVER POLLUTION 20th March, 2012

RSQ 632

SHRI BHARATSINH PRABHATSINH PARMAR SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA

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

(a) whether Government is aware that there is steep rise in pollution of various rivers; (b) whether Ministry has received any complaints in this regard within last three years; (c) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; (d) whether the Ministry is serious on this important subject; and (e) the details of action taken by Ministry to protect the rivers from pollution?

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

(a) to (c) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in association with State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) have established a network of 1085 Water Quality Monitoring Stations (WQMS) along various river stretches. Water quality data in respect of Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) has exceeded the desired water quality criteria (< 3 mg/per litre) in 150 river stretches covering 36 rivers. The major cause of rising organic pollution particularly BOD in these rivers is due to discharge of untreated and partially treated domestic effluents by various municipalities across the country. Details of number of polluted stretches and rivers statewise are at Annexure. Representations/suggestions received from time to time from members of the public/ organisations pertaining to conservation of rivers are forwarded to States/Implementing Agencies concerned for appropriate action.

(d) & (e) 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), which presently covers 40 rivers in 190 towns spread over 20 states. Pollution abatement schemes implemented under the Plan include interception, diversion and treatment of sewage; low cost sanitation works on river banks; electric/improved wood crematoria etc. Sewage treatment capacity of 4574 million litres per day has been created so far under the Plan.

Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 632 to be answered on 20.03.2012 on ‘Steep rise in river pollution’.

State-wise details of polluted river stretches

Sl. No. Name of State Name of the River No. of polluted stretches 1 Andhra Pradesh Godavari, Krishna, Manjira, Musi, Maner, Nakkavagu, Pennar 9 and Tungabhadra 2 Assam Bharalu, Burhidihing, Deepar bill and Kalong 4 3 Chandigarh Attawa choe, Patiala ki Rao and Sukhna choe 3 4 Delhi Yamuna 1 5 Gujarat Ambika, Anas, Amlakhadi, Bhogavo, Baleshwar Khadi, Dhadar, 19 Daman Ganga, Khari, , Kim, Kolak, Mindhola, Mahi, Panam, Shedi, Sabarmati, and Tapi 6 Haryana Ghaggar, Gurgaon canal, Markanda, Western Yamuna canal, 5 and Yamuna 7 Himachal Beas, Markanda and Sukhna, 3 Pradesh 8 Madhya Betwa, Chambal, Kshipra, Khan, Kalisot, Mandakini, Tons and 9 Pradesh Narmada 9 Maharashtra Bhima, Godavari, Mula & mutha, Pawana, Panchganga, 28

Patalganga, Indrayani, Koyna, Kundalika, Kalu, Kanhan, Kolar, Mithi, Tapi, Girna, Nira, Weinganga, Wardha, Krishna, Purna, Nira, Chandrabhaga, Venna river, Ulhas, Rangavali and Bhatsa 10 Punjab Satluj and Ghaggar 2 11 Tamil Nadu Adyar, Coovum, Cauvery, Noyyal, Vaigai, Tambiraparani, 9 Bhavani and Palar 12 Uttar Yamuna, Hindon, Western kali (Partly Covered), Kali nadi 12 Pradesh eastern, Bagad, Ganga, Gomti, Ramganga, Saryu and Rihand 13 Karnataka Bhadra, Tunga, Tungabhadra, Laxmantirtha, Kali, Krishna, 11 Hundri, Kundu, Arkavati and Malprabha 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 Orissa Kathjodi, Brahmani, Mahanadi and Kuakhai 4 24 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

SAFE DISPOSAL OF TOXIC WASTE IN FTL AND CFL 20th March, 2012

RSQ 633

SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN SHRI R.C. SINGH

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

(a) whether the Task Force appointed by the Ministry on the Environmentally sound Management of Mercury in the Fluorescent Lamp sector has submitted its report; (b) if so, the details of its findings and main recommendations; and (c) the steps taken by Government for the safe disposal of the toxic waste found in the fluorescent tube lights (FTL) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFL)?

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

(a) to (c): Ministry of Environment and Forests had constituted a Task Force to evolve a policy on “Environmentally Sound Management of mercury in Fluorescent Lamps”. A Technical Committee, constituted by this Task Force, had prepared “Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Mercury Management in Fluorescent Lamps Sector”. These guidelines prescribe the best practices at various levels, such as at manufacturer’s level and include aspects relate to mercury consumption, process technology, raw mercury distillation, on-site storage, treatment, recycling and disposal of mercury bearing wastes, mercury spill management. The best practices at consumer’s level include handling of used/broken lamps, consumer awareness pertaining to collection, transport, treatment and disposal of used fluorescent lamps.

Ministry of Environment and Forests and Central Pollution Control Board have written to all the State Governments and Union Territories to encourage establishment of recycling units so that the fused Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) and Fluorescent Tube lights (FTLs) are properly collected and the mercury is recovered and recycled scientifically and safely.

CONSERVATION OF WETLAND IN GREATER NOIDA

20th March, 2012

RSQ 634

SHRI SANJAY RAUT SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that wetland was sold in Greater Noida to a private realty firm; (b) if so, the details thereof ; (c) whether it is also a fact that the wetland was home to about 200 endangered species at Dadri; and (d) the appropriate action the Ministry is taking to conserve the wetland and stop construction activities?

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

(a) & (b). Yes, Sir. A complaint has been received regarding reclamation of wetland habitats in Bil Akbarpur, Greater Noida by Ansal Private Limited. A Central team was sent to verify factual position and as per report, condition no. 22 of Environmental Clearance (EC) by State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority, U.P. which states that no wetland should be infringed during construction and operation phases and any wetland coming in the project area should be suitably rejuvenated and conserved has not been complied.

(c). Though there are no corroborative evidences to show 200 endangered species of birds, however, as per survey conducted by Uttar Pradesh Government in 2009 Bil Akbarpur has been identified as an important wetland covering 4 hectare area. This wetland harbours a good concentration of Avian Fauna in terms of biodiversity and density and is considered to be a viable avian habitat.

(d). On the basis of field inspection, a show cause notice was issued to the builders under Section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to stop any construction/Earth Filling/land reclamation work in the vicinity of wetland and lands having characteristics of wetlands.

COMPENSATION FOR DESTROYED FORESTS TO MP 20th March, 2012

RSQ 635

SHRI PRABHAT JHA SHRIMATI HEMA MALINI

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

(a) whether it is a fact that compensations are given by the Central Government to the States for plantation in new areas in place of the forest land destroyed during the development work in the States; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is a fact that a huge amount of compensation is due upon the Central Government in lieu of the destroyed forest of Madhya Pradesh; and (d) if so, the details thereof, and by when the compensation amount will be released?

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

(a) to (d) The Central Government does not give compensation to the States for plantation in new areas in place of the forest land destroyed during the development work in the States. However, the Central Government while according approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes stipulates conditions that the State Government shall realize funds for creation and maintenance of compensatory afforestation, execution of wildlife conservation plan and catchment area treatment plan and Net Present Value (NPV) of the diverted forest land from the user agency in whose favour forest land is diverted for non-forest purposes.

In compliance of the orders passed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court, funds realized from the user agencies in lieu of the forest land diverted in their favour are required to be transferred to the ad-hoc body of the Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAPMA) constituted by the Hon’ble Supreme Court.

As on 30th June 2011, an amount of Rs. 871.25 crores realized from the concerned user agencies by the State Government of Madhya Pradesh have been transferred to the Ad-hoc CAMPA, out of which an amount of Rs.104.21 crores has been released back to the State Government of Madhya Pradesh.

SIGHTING OF TIGERS OUTSIDE PROTECTED AREA IN UTTARAKHAND 20th March, 2012

RSQ 636

SHRI TARUN VIJAY

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

(a) whether there are increasing instances of tigers being sighted outside the protected areas in Uttarakhand; (b) if so, the steps Government propose to take in this regard; (c) whether the Ministry has received proposal from Uttarakhand Government to declare Nandhor as Wildlife Sanctuary; (d) if so, when was the proposal received; and (e) the time within which a decision can be expected in this matter?

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

(a) & (b) As per the findings of the recent all India tiger estimation (2010), tiger occupancy has mainly been reported in areas outside the Corbett tiger reserve in Uttarakhand. The State has been advised to include areas of Ramnagar, Terai West and Lansdowne Forest Divisions in the buffer / peripheral area of the Corbett Tiger Reserve.

(c) No Sir.

(d) & (e) Question does not arise.

PERFORMANCE OF SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTS IN DIFFERENT CITIES 20th March, 2012

RSQ 637

SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI

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

(a) whether any review has been conducted on the performance of sewage treatment plants, in selected cities; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is a fact that the sewage plants in major cities treated far less than the sewage generated; (d) if so, the reasons therefor; and (e) the action taken to improve the performance of sewage treatment plants in these cities?

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

(a) & (b) As per the performance evaluation of the Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) carried out by CPCB during 2011 in selected cities in the States of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, Bihar and West Bengal, out of 92 STPs, 26 STPs were not found meeting the prescribed standards in respect of Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD). The major reasons for non-compliance include; lack of proper operation & maintenance of plants due to inadequate resource mobilization by the States/ Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), lack of technical manpower and non-availability of regular power supply.

(c) & (d) According to a recent report of the Central Pollution Control Board (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. Creation of sewerage infrastructure for its disposal is the responsibility of the State Governments/ULBs. Their efforts are supplemented through central schemes, such as National River Conservation Plan, National Lake conservation Plan, Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission and Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns.

(e) The State Governments/ULBs and their agencies responsible for operation and maintenance of the sewerage infrastructure including STPs, are requested to ensure proper operation and maintenance of assets and capacity building of staff. State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) are vested with the statutory powers under the Water Act, 1974, to take action against defaulting agencies.

PENDING CASES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FROM GUJARAT 20th March, 2012

RSQ 638

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR:

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

(a) the number of cases which are pending for environment clearance with the Ministry till date; (b) how many of them are from Gujarat; (c) by when these cases are likely to be cleared; and (d) whether Central Government intends to decentralize its power to State Authorities for fast clearance?

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

(a) & (b) A total of 832 proposals received from various States, including 43 proposals received from the State of Gujarat are pending for environmental clearance.

(c) Project proponents are required to furnish complete information in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) prepared for projects and fulfilment of other requirements of the EIA Notification 2006 and Circulars there under, for obtaining early environmental clearance.

(d) The EIA Notification 2006 provides for setting up of State Level Impact Assessment Authorities for environmental clearance of projects falling under Category B listed in Schedule to the EIA Notification 2006.

PROJECTS PENDING FOR ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE FROM STATES 20th March, 2012

RSQ 639

SHRI BALAVANT ALIAS BAL APTE

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

(a) the number of cases submitted by Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Karnataka and Jharkhand that are under consideration with the Ministry for environmental clearance; (b) the number of cases lying pending for the Minister’s approval after completion of all formalities, the details thereof State-wise; and (c) whether there is any action plan to dispose off these cases in time-bound manner and the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) A total of 140 proposals received from the States of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Karnataka and Jharkhand are pending at various stages for environmental clearance.

(c) The steps taken for early environmental clearance include the following:

i. Regular meetings of the Expert Appraisal Committees are held for early consideration of proposals received for environmental clearance. ii. Minutes of meetings of Expert Appraisal Committees (EACs) of various sectors are regularly uploaded on the MOEF website. iii. Sector specific EIA Technical Guidance Manuals have been prepared and uploaded on the Ministry website to facilitate better preparation of EIA-EMP Reports by the project proponents. iv. A number of Circulars on the EIA Notification 2006 on the process for obtaining environmental clearance have also been uploaded on the MOEF website to facilitate the project proponents in preparation of EIA- EMP reports with all relevant information.

WORLD BANK AID FOR TIGER CONSERVATION PROGRAMME 20th March, 2012

RSQ 640

SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI

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

(a) whether Government is accepting the World Bank’s aid for the tiger conservation programme; and (b) if so, the details thereof during the last three years to protect the tigers in our country?

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

(a) No Sir. (b) Question does not arise.

ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT TO INDUSTRIAL UNITS 20th March, 2012

RSQ 641

SHRIMATI KANIMOZHI

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

(a) whether Government’s policy includes ordering Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) to industrial units at the time of closure and the details thereof; (b) if not, the reasons therefor;

(c) whether Government has made it mandatory to organize public meetings/hearings to communicate the findings of EIA and to include them in the process of oversight; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) & (b): Ministry of Environment & Forests appraises projects for grant of environment clearance in terms of the provisions of Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 in respect of the projects / activities listed thereunder, based on the project documents submitted by the project proponent including environment impact assessment report. The generic structure of EIA document inter-alia includes anticipated environment impact and mitigation measures during construction, operation and final de-commissioning or rehabilitation of a completed project. There is no separate provision for Environment Impact Assessment at the stage of closure of industrial units.

(c) & (d) Public consultation is an integral component of the environment clearance process under the EIA Notification, 2006. Public hearing process requires the draft Environment Impact Assessment report to be placed before the public.

FILLING UP OF BACKLOG VACANCIES 20th March, 2012

RSQ 642

SHRI AMBETH RAJAN

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

(a) whether provision inserted vide the 81 Amendment to the Constitution is being followed in the Ministry for all groups i.e., Group A to Group D; (b) whether backlog vacancies are notified and filled up every year; (c) the reasons, if any, for not following the procedure; and (d) the details of backlog vacancies filled during the past three years?

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

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) Backlog of vacancies are notified and filled up as per government instruction issued from time to time.

(c) Does not arise.

(d) Detail of backlog vacancies in the Ministry including attached, subordinate offices and autonomous organisation filled during the past three years (2009-10 to 2011-12) is as under:

DIRECT RECRUITMENT:

Classification of Posts Scheduled Caste Scheduled Tribes Other Backward classes No. of backlog No. of backlog vacancies No. of backlog vacancies filled vacancies filled filled Group ‘A’ 1 1 3 Group ‘B’ - - 1 Group ‘C’ 8 7 4 Group ‘D’ 1 - - Total 10 8 8

FINDINGS OF THE COMMITTEE ON JINDAL ECOPLIS PROJECT 20th March, 2012

RSQ 643

SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN SINGH

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

(a) whether government has set up a special Committee recently on Jindal Ecoplis Project operating from the banks of Yamuna in Okhla, South Delhi; (b) if so, the finding of Committee thereon; (c) whether Government has received several complaints of smoke from Ecoplis Project thus choking several South Delhi Colonies; and (d) if so, the action taken against the management of the project, so far?

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

(a) to (d): Based on the complaints received against the incineration of municipal waste and its likely harmful effects on the air quality and health of people in the Sukhdev Vihar/Okhla area due to the emissions from Waste-to– Energy plant at Okhla, an Expert Committee representing members form IITs, German Technical Consultants (GTZ) Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Department of Environment, Government of NCT of Delhi, NGOs and Public representatives was constituted to look into the technical aspects of the project. The representatives from NDMC, MCD, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India and Delhi Jal Board were also invited during deliberations of the Committee meetings. The committee completed deliberations on various aspects and recommended that in view of the Waste to Energy plant being located in an urban agglomeration adjacent to populated areas, the operation of the plant must ensure compliance to the emission standards prescribed in the MSW Rules, 2000 and as assured by the proponent.

SCHEMES FOR CONTROLLING POLLUTION 20th March, 2012

RSQ 644 SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA

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

(a) the names of schemes being run by Government to stop and control widespread pollution in the States and the details thereof; (b) whether the State Governments have put forward projects under the above mentioned schemes before Government; and (c) if so, the names of schemes under consideration and by when they will be redressed, and the State-wise details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN) (a) The Central Government is implementing the following Centrally Sponsored/Central Sector Schemes to control pollution:

Sl. No Main Scheme Sub Scheme 1. Pollution Abatement (i) Development and Promotion of Clean Technology and waste Minimization Strategies (ii) Assistance for Abatement of Pollution Environment P & L (iii) Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) (iv) Hazardous Substance Management 2. National River Conservation Plan (i) National River Conservation Programme (ii) National Lake Conservation Programme (iii) National Ganga River Basin Authority 3. National Coastal Management Programme -

(b) & (c) Yes Sir. These are ongoing schemes. The proposals seeking assistance under these schemes are received in the Ministry on a regular basis. The proposals so received are considered for sanction subject to their admissibility as per the guidelines, priorities set by Government of India and availability of funds under the Plan.

MEASURES FOR CHECKING DESERTIFICATION IN THE COUNTRY 20th March, 2012

RSQ 645

DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA

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

(a) whether dry land in India is increasing rapidly, and the present scenario thereof; (b) if so, the details thereof over the past three years, State-wise; (c) the steps taken to check desertification, State-wise; (d) the recommendations contained in Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas of India (Space Application Centre, 2007) and Wasteland Atlas of India, 2010 (Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development); and (e) the follow-up action thereof?

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

(a) & (b) The status of land degradation and desertification in the country has been assessed by several organizations, providing varied figures, the systematic spatial inventory has never done before. The Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas (2007) was first ever attempt in the country to systematically carryout Desertification/land degradation Status mapping on 1:50,000 scale in the representation sites pertaining to arid, semi arid and dry sub humid areas, in both hot and cold regions in India.

India has a total geographic area (TGA) of 328 m ha, out of which drylands constitute an area of 228.3 million hectares (about 69.6 %). The drylands comprise of Arid areas covers 50.8 million hectares, Semi-Arid areas covers 123.4 million hectares and Dry sub-humid areas covers 54.1 million hectares. The Department of Land Resources has no information that dry land in India is increasing rapidly. The total area undergoing the process of land degradation in India is estimated at 105.48 million hectares, which constitutes 32.07 percentage of India’s total land area. (source: Desertification Status Map, Space Application Centre, ISRO, Ministry of Space, 2007).

State wise information is placed at Annexure I.

As per the Wastelands Atlas of India 2010 India has about 47.22 million hectares (mha) under wastelands. The estimated area under wasteland, for various years is summarized below :

Year % Extent of wastelands of TGA 2000 20% 2003 17.57 % 2005-06 14.91%

State wise information is placed at Annexure II.

(c) Based on the details in the Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas and Wasteland Atlas of India 2010, the steps taken to check desertification, include, implementation of following programmes in States and UTs; Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP),National Afforestation Programme (NAP),Soil Conservation in the Catchment of River Valley Project and Flood Prone River, National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas (NWDPRA),Sustainable Land and Ecosystem Management (SLEM), Fodder and Feed Development Scheme- component of Grassland Development including Grass Reserves, Command Area Development and Water Management (CADWM) programme, National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP),National Project for Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies, The Mahatma Gandhi

National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM),Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) Programme etc.

(d) & (e) No recom

mendat ions are contained in the Wasteland Atlas of India, 2010 brought out by National Remote Sensing Centre, Hyderabad or in the Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas of India.

DANGER TO WILDLIFE CORRIDOR IN RAJASTHAN 20th March, 2012

RSQ 646

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the canal project to connect Kushalipuranalla to the Mansarovar Dam in the Ranthambhor National Park threatens to destroy the crucial corridor that links the Ranthambhor National Park to the Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary and is in violation of the Wildlife and Forest Act; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; and (c) the details of action Ministry has taken in this regard?

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

(a), (b) and (c) The area of the said canal project falls under the core area of the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, notified under section 38 V of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006. The project was placed for consideration before the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), in its meeting held on

14.10.2011. Although the proposal stands recommended by the State Board for Wildlife, Chief Wildlife Warden of the State and the National Tiger Conservation Authority, no final view on the project was taken by the Standing Committee.

WETLANDS IN THE COUNTRY 20th March, 2012

RSQ 647

DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA

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

(a) the total number of wetlands in the country; (b) the details of prominent wetlands; (c) the importance for fishery, climate, environment and ecology; (d) the commitment of India as a signatory of the Ramsar Convention; (e) the steps taken to conserve wetlands; and (f) the above statistics pertaining to in the country?

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

(a). As reported by Space Application Center (SAC), Ahmedabad in their National Wetland Inventory and Assessment Report published in June, 2011, there are 757060 wetlands occupying an area of 15260572 hectares in the country. This also includes 3806 mangroves with an area of 471407 hectares.

(b).Ministry has identified 115 wetlands and 38 Mangroves in the country for conservation and management. The list of these prominent wetlands is annexed.

(c). Wetlands play a prominent role in acting as nurseries for fisheries, in mitigation of floods, wastewater treatment, recharging of aquifers and acting as filter for nutrients. They also provide niche for aquatic biodiversity and any intervention in their hydrological regimes result in their ecological degradation. Wetlands are also subjected to vagaries of climate change through receding of glaciers effecting ecology and environment of the upstream and downstream areas.

(d) As a signatory to the Ramsar Convention, we are committed for conservation and wise use of wetlands through National and International cooperation for achieving their sustainable development.

(e) Ministry of Environment and Forests has identified 115 Wetlands covering 26 States/UTs and 38 Mangrove forests covering 10 States/UTs for conservation under National Programmes. 100% assistance is provided to the concerned state governments for undertaking various conservation activities like survey & demarcation, afforestation, natural regeneration and restoration catchment area treatment, water management, protection measures, fisheries development, weed control, wildlife conservation, pollution abatement, eco-development and education & awareness activities, etc. This is supplemented by research and developmental activities.

In order not to use wetlands beyond their carrying capacity, the Government has very recently notified Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules 2010. All the state governments have been advised to notify all wetlands so that they are regulated as per these rules. An amount of Rs 102.39 crores has been released during eleventh five years plan for conservation of wetlands.

(f) The statistics pertaining to mangroves is already covered under (a) to (e) above.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF RAJYA SHABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 647 DUE FOR REPLY ON 20.03.2012 REGARDING WETLANDS IN THE COUNTRY BY DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA

List of identified wetlands

Sl. No. States/Union S Name of Wetlands Territories .

N o . 1. Andhra Pradesh 1. Kolleru 2. Assam 2. Deepar Beel 3. Urpad Beel 4. Sone Beel 3. Bihar 5. Kabar 6. Barilla 7. Kusheshwar Asthan 4. Gujarat 8. Nalsarovar 9. Great Rann of Kachh 10. Thol Bird Sanctuary 11. Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary 12. Little Rann of Kachh 13. Pariej 14. Wadhwana 15. Nanikakrad 5. Haryana 16. Sultanpur 17. Bhindawas 6. Himachal Pradesh 18. Renuka 19. Pong Dam 20. Chandratal 21. Rewalsar 22. Khajjiar 7. Jammu & Kashmir 23. Wullar 24. Tso Morari 25. Tisgul Tso & Chisul Marshes 26. Hokersar 27. Mansar-Surinsar 28. Ranjitsagar 29. Pangong Tsar 30. Gharana 31. Hygam, 32. Mirgund 33. Shalbugh 34. Chushul & Hanley 8. Jharkhand 35. Udhwa 36. Tilaiya Dam 9. Karnataka 37. Magadhi 38. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary 39. Bonal 40. Hidkal & Ghataprabha 41. Heggeri 42. Ranganthittu 43. K.G. Koppa wetland 10. Kerala 44. Ashtamudi 45. Sasthamkotta 46. Kottuli

47. Kadulandi 48. Vembnad Kol 11. Madhya Pradesh 49. Barna 50. Yashwant Sagar 51. Wetland of Ken River 52. National Chambal Sanct. 53. Ghatigaon 54. Ratapani 55. Denwa Tawa wetland 56. Kanha Tiger Reserve 57. Pench Tiger Reserve 58. Sakhyasagar 59. Dihaila 60. Govindsagar 61. Sirpur

12. Maharashtra 62. Ujni 63. Jayakawadi 64. Nalganga wetland 13. Manipur 65. Loktak 14 Meghalaya 66. Umiam lake 15. Mizoram 67. Tamdil 68. Palak 16 Orissa 69. Chilka 70. Kuanria wetland 71. Kanjia wetland

72. Daha wetland 73. Anusupa 17. Punjab 74. Harike 75. Ropar 76. Kanjli 77. Nangal 18. Rajasthan 78. Sambhar 19. Sikkim 79. Khechuperi Holy Lake 80. Tamze Wetland 81. Tembao Wetland Complex 82. Phendang Wetland Complex 83. Gurudokmar Wetland 84. Tsomgo wetland 20. Tamil Nadu 85. Point Calimere 86. Kaliveli 87. Pallaikarni 21. Tripura 88. Rudrasagar 89. Gumti reservoir 22. Uttar Prdaesh 90. Nawabganj 91. Sandi 92. Lakh Bahoshi 93. Samaspur 94. Alwara Wetland 95. Semarai Lake 96. Nagaria lake 97. Keetham Lake

98. Shekha wetland 99. Saman Bird Sanctuary 100. Sarsai Nawar 101. Patna Bird Sanctuary 102. Chandotal 103. Tal Bhaghel 104. Taal Ganbhirvan & Taal Salona 105. Aadi jal Jeev Jheel 23. Uttaranchal 106. Ban Ganga Jhilmil Tal 107. Asan 24. West Bengal 108. East Calcutta Wetland 109. Sunder bans 110. Ahiron Beel 111. Rasik Beel 112. Santragachi 113. Patlakhawa- Rasomati 25 Chandigarh (UT) 114. Sukhna 26 Puducherry ( 115. Ousteri lake

UT)

List of identified Mangroves:

SI.No. States/Union Mangroves Territories 1 Andhra Pradesh 1 Coringa 2 East Godavari 3 Krishna 2 Gujarat 4 Gulf of Kutchh 5 Gulf of Khambhat 6 Dumas-Ubhrat 3 Goa 7 Goa 4 Karnataka 8 Coondapur 9 Dakshin /Honnavar 10 Karwar 11 Manglore Forest Division 5 Kerala 12 13 Kannur (Northern Kerala) 6 Maharashtra 14 Achra-Ratnagiri 15 Devgarh-Vijay Durg 16 Veldur 17 Kundalika-Revdanda 18 Mumbra-Diva 19 Vikroli 20 Shreevardhan 21 Vaitarna 22 Vasai-Manori 23 Malvan 7 Orissa 24 Bhaitarkanika 25 Mahanadi 26 Subernarekha 27 Devi-Kauda 28 Dhamra 29 Mangrove Genetic Resources Centre 30 Chilka 8 Tamil Nadu 31 Pichavaram 32 Muthupet 33 Ramnad 34 Pulicat 35 9 West Bengal 36 Sunderbans 10 Andaman & 37 North Andamans Nicobar (UT) 38 Nicobar

CONFERENCE OF BRICS COUNTRIES ON GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE REGIME

20th March, 2012

RSQ 648

SHRI N. K. SINGH

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

(a) Whether India had convened a conference of the BRICS grouping countries to arrive at a common strategy on the proposed new global climate change regime; (b) if so, the details thereof and the outcome of the talks; (c) whether a common strategy has been adopted; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d) India had convened a meeting of BASIC (Brazil, South Africa, India, China) countries on 13-14 February, 2012 in New Delhi to discuss the outcomes of the climate change conference held at Durban in December 2012 and decide a strategy for future actions on Climate Change related issues.

The Ministers from BASIC Countries adopted a Joint Statement covering issues related to second commitment period of Kyoto Protocol, Durban Platform, unresolved issues of equity, trade and technology related intellectual property rights, Review of implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Green Climate Fund and inclusion of international aviation in the European Union’s Emission Trading Scheme.

JOINT STATEMENT ISSUED AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE 10th BASIC MINISTERIAL MEETING ON CLIMATE CHANGE

February 13-14, 2012 New Delhi, India

1. The 10th BASIC Ministerial Meeting on Climate Change was held in New Delhi on February 13-14, 2012. H.E. Ms. Jayanthi Natarajan, Minister of Environment & Forests of India, H.E. Mr. Xie Zhenhua, Vice Chairman, National Development and Reform Commission of China, H.E. Mr.Francisco Gaetani, Deputy Minister of Environment of Brazil, Mr. Alfred James Wills, Chief Climate Change Negotiator of South Africa and Ambassador Mxakato-Diseko as representative of COP-17 President participated in the meeting. In line with ‘BASIC-Plus’ approach, Qatar (as incoming President of COP-18), Swaziland (as Chair of Africa Group of negotiators and as a member of LDCs) and Singapore (as member of AoSIS) were invited and participated in the meeting as observers Algeria (as Chair of G-77 & China) was also invited.

2. BASIC Ministers appreciated the outcome of the Durban Conference and the role played by South Africa as Presidency of COP-17. Ministers recognized that the Durban conference represented a significant step forward and helped operationalize several of the Cancun decisions such as Green Climate Fund (GCF), Adaptation Committee, Technology Executive Committee and the Climate Technology Centre and Networks (CTCN), the Standing Committee on Finance and the arrangements for transparency.

3. Ministers welcomed in particular, the agreement on the 2nd commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol, and stressed that the presentation by May 2012 by Annex-I parties of information on their economy wide quantified emission reduction objectives (QELROs) with a view to adopting an amendment to Annex-B of Kyoto Protocol is an important and necessary first step for the success of the process agreed to at Durban. Ministers reiterated that the flexible mechanisms of the Kyoto Protocol would be available to only those Annex-I parties that have established quantified emissions reduction commitments in the 2nd commitment period. Ministers also emphasized that the non-KP Annex-I parties too must undertake comparable commitments under internationally agreed rules of accounting, measurement, reporting, verification and compliance.

4. Ministers regretted the announcement by Canada, within a few days after the conclusion of the Durban Conference, withdrawing from the Kyoto Protocol. Ministers observed that the Kyoto Protocol is not only a cornerstone of the international climate regime but a legally binding agreement under the UNFCCC and that any attempts by developed countries to casually set aside their existing legal commitments while calling for a new legally binding agreement seriously questions their credibility and sincerity in responding to the climate crisis.

5. Ministers recognized that the Durban Platform offers a clear opportunity for an equitable, inclusive, effective and strengthened climate change regime. Ministers emphasized that the agreement on the Durban Platform was part of a carefully balanced package of ‘mutual reassurances’ between the parties. They reaffirmed that the process launched at Durban is not to renegotiate or rewrite the Convention and that this process and its outcome shall be under the Convention and in full accordance with all its principles and provisions, in particular the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. Ministers welcomed the fact that a compromise was reached at the last minute at Durban to develop a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention. Ministers noted that the scope of work of Durban Platform has to be defined in advance of the conclusion of the work of the two AWGs.

6. Ministers stressed that unresolved issues such as equity, trade and technology-related IPRs etc must not fall-off the table and remain part of the negotiations.

7. Ministers noted that developing countries are fully committed to playing their part in the global fight against climate change and have presented actions which express significant ambition to reduce emissions. Ministers stressed that developed countries must rise up to their historical responsibilities and take the lead in the fight against climate change by undertaking robust and ambitious mitigation commitments consistent with science and in accordance with the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities under the Convention.

8. Ministers stressed that equity is a cornerstone of the international efforts at combating climate change and welcomed the decision at Durban to organize a workshop on ‘Equitable Access to Sustainable Development’. They stressed that equity must remain an essential element of the work moving forward in the UNFCCC process.

9. Ministers reiterated the importance of the Review of the implementation of the Convention, in accordance with its principles and provisions. Ministers stressed that the clear mandate provided by 1/CP.16 in this regard must be respected. Ministers reaffirmed the important role of the findings of the fifth Assessment Report (AR-5) of the Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in informing the process of implementation of the various decisions of COP-17.

10. Ministers welcomed the operationalization of the Green Climate Fund and called for its early capitalization. They urged the developed countries to honor their commitments to provide US$ 30 billion as fast start funding and US$ 100 billion per year by 2020. They also stressed the urgency of securing long-term finance for developing countries including for implementation of Adaptation Framework, national adaptation planning and REDD+. Ministers welcomed the setting up of a platform for discussions of long-term finance under the UNFCCC.

11. Ministers noted with deep concern and reiterated their firm opposition to the inclusion of international aviation in the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU-ETS) which violates international law including the principles and provisions of UNFCCC and runs counter to multilateralism. Ministers noted that the unilateral action by EU in the name of climate change was taken despite strong international opposition and would seriously jeopardize the international efforts to combat climate change. The Ministers recognized the threat of similar unilateral measures being considered by developed countries in the name of climate change in the area of international shipping and expressed their concern.

12. Ministers recalled the first ever statement made by China on behalf of the BASIC countries at Durban and pledged to continue and deepen their cooperation and coordination in the discussions leading up to COP-18 at Doha. In view of the ongoing negotiations for the Rio+20 Conference on sustainable development, Ministers agreed that the BASIC countries should enhance their discussions on Rio+20 issues as well.

13. Ministers emphasized that BASIC countries as part of G-77 & China are extremely vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change and therefore share the deep concern of SIDS, LDCs and Africa. The Ministers reaffirmed the need to maintain and strengthen the unity of G-77 & China as the unified voice of developing countries in the climate change negotiations.

14. Ministers welcomed the offer by South Africa to host the 11th BASIC Ministerial Meeting on climate change in the second quarter of 2012.

MANDATORY EMISSION TRADING SYSTEM FOR AIRLINES

20th March, 2012

RSQ 649

SHRI A. A. JINNAH

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

(a) Whether India opposed the European Union’s proposal to cap planet warming gases under its emission trading system and make it mandatory for airlines to buy carbon credits equipment for the carbon dioxide emitted by aircraft while flying over the region; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether many countries including the US, China and Gulf countries have also opposed this move; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d) India has opposed the step taken by European Union (EU) to include international Civil aviation emissions in their Emission Trading Scheme. India consider the EU action as a unilateral measure and in violation of the Chicago Convention and the provisions of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The Government has conveyed its strong protest to the European Union on this unilateral measure both at multilateral and bilateral level. India is a party to the joint declarations issued in Delhi and Moscow by a group of like-minded member states of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) that are opposed to the EU’s decision.

The joint declaration that was adopted in a meeting of like-minded countries held on Feb 21-22, 2012 in Moscow was supported by 32 countries that includes US, China and Gulf countries. The joint declaration recommends a basket of measures that can be taken in retaliation of EU’s action, and includes invoking dispute resolution mechanism under the Chicago Convention, prohibiting the airlines from participating in the EU’s scheme, and submission of data/flight details, and reviewing the bilateral air services agreements.

MEASURES FOR TACKLING E-WASTE 27th March, 2012

RSQ *188

SHRI TARUN VIJAY

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

(a) the quantum of e-waste generated in the country and the quantum of e-waste imported into the country through legitimate and illegitimate channels; (b) the percentage of e-waste recycled in the formal and the informal sectors, respectively; (c) whether the Ministry proposes to implement 'take back scheme' for consumers for all products generating e-waste; (d) if not, the reasons therefor; and (e) the details of steps contemplated by Government to address the problem of e- waste?

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. 188 for answer on 27th March, 2012 regarding “Measures for tackling e-waste” raised by Shri Tarun Vijay

(a) to (e): Based on a survey carried out by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), it is estimated that 1.47 lakh Metric Tons (MT) of e-waste was generated in the country in the year 2005, which is expected to increase to about 8.00 lakh MT by 2012.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has notified the Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008, for proper management and handling of hazardous wastes including E- waste. Import and export of such wastes are regulated as per these rules.

Under these Rules, import of e-waste for dumping is not permitted. Import is permitted only for reuse or recycling or reprocessing with the permission of the Ministry of Environment and Forests and/or Directorate General of Foreign Trade. Permission for import is granted to units, which have environmentally sound recycling facility. All import consignments are required to be accompanied by a movement document containing information about composition of the waste, disposal site, etc. The Customs authorities are required to draw random samples from consignments of hazardous wastes and issue directions for re-export of the consignment at the cost of importer in case of violation, including import without prior permission of MoEF. During the last two years, no permission for import of e-waste has been given by the Ministry for recycling or re-processing.

The installed capacity for e-waste recycling in the country is 2, 27,236 MT per annum. The Ministry is implementing a Scheme to encourage setting up of integrated recycling facilities for E-waste on Public Private Partnership mode.

As per the rules, E-waste generated is required to be sent to authorized and registered recyclers for environmentally sound disposal. The SPCBs can take action as per the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (29 of 1986) in case of any violation.

For effective implementation of provisions related to import and export, a co-ordination committee has been constituted including representatives from the Ministry of Finance (Department. of Revenue), the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (DGFT), the Ministry of Shipping (Department. of Ports), the Central Pollution Control Board and selects State Pollution Control Boards. This committee has been working to sensitize the Customs authorities regarding enforcement of these Rules in order to check illegal import of hazardous wastes into the country.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests has also notified separate rules titled E-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 on 12th May, 2011. These rules will 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 this the producers will be 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. Collection centers will be required to obtain authorization from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) concerned. Dismantlers and Recyclers will be required to obtain authorization and registration from the SPCB concerned.

Further, Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Management of E-waste brought out by Central Pollution Control Board provide the approach and methodology for environmentally sound management of e-waste.

IMPACT OF MOBILE PHONE TOWER RADIATION ON BIRDS AND INSECTS 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1405

SHRI

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

(a) whether Government has commissioned any study to understand the impact of mobile phone tower radiation on birds and insects; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the reasons that prompted the commissioning of the study?

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

(a) and (b) 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.

(c) On 11th August, 2010, Hon’ble Shri M. Anandan had raised a Starred Question No. 244 regarding ‘Ill effects of Mobile Towers on Birds’ wherein Hon’ble Member wanted to know whether any studies have been conducted on the ill effects of mobile towers on birds and bees and also whether the Government has set up any committee to look into the issue. The Ministry of Environment and Forests had, therefore, constituted the Expert Committee to study the possible impacts of communication towers on wildlife including Birds and Bees.

DELAY IN NOC FOR GM CROPS TRIAL 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1406

SHRI D. RAJA SHRI M.P. ACHUTHAN

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

(a) whether it is a fact that a number of State Governments have refused to issue No Objection Certificate (NOC) for various GM crops trials as per the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC); (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Ministry has been approached by the GEAC for holding meetings between various State Governments and GEAC on the issue of NOC for field trial; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) State Governments of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Uttarakhand and Karnataka have informed that they have taken a decision to prohibit environmental release of all Genetically Modified (GM) seeds. Currently field trials have been allowed only in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan. Recently Government of Rajasthan has conveyed its decision to withdraw the No Objection Certificate (NOC) which was issued to Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants, University of Delhi for conduct of second season Biosafety Research Level (BRL-I) trial with GM Mustard in their state.

(c) & (d) The GEAC has been approached by the Seed Industries, Ministry of Agriculture and Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) to reconsider its decision on the need of NOC from the State Government prior to the conduct of GM crop field trial. The matter was discussed in the GEAC meeting held on 14.12.2011 wherein it was recognized that issue of non-issuance of NOC by the State Govt. is mainly due to lack of clarity on the role State Govt. officials and lack of awareness on highly technical issues associated with biotechnology and biosafety measures. It was also reiterated that the role of the State Government is very critical for compliance monitoring and therefore it is important to have a dialogue with the State Government to provide necessary clarification. Accordingly, it was agreed that the GEAC may give a detailed presentations with a view to address the concerns of the State Government and provide more clarity on the role of the State Government.

PENDING PROJECTS OF GUJARAT STATE FOREST DEVELOPMENT AGENCY 27th March, 2012

RSQ1407

SHRIMATI SMRITI ZUBIN IRANI

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that while sanctioning the project relating to Gujarat State Forest Development Agency (FDA) the Union Government has not sanctioned any funds towards the advance action work for taking up afforestation during the monsoon season in 2010-2011;

(b) the number of proposals related to State Forest Development Agency pending with the Union Government at present and the reasons therefor; and (c) the time by which 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.

FOREST REPORT, 2011 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1408

SHRI SHIVANAND TIWARI SHRI RAM JETHMALANI

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

(a) whether it is a fact that as per the Forest Report, 2011 having registered a 5 per cent increase in the forest cover Country’s 24 per cent land is covered by forests; (b) if so, what is Government’s reaction in this regard; (c) whether it is also a fact that out of this forest cover 28 to 30 per cent forests are degraded forests; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) whether it is a fact that there are different definitions of forests in the country, if so, the definition of each category of forests?

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

(a) & (b) As per the India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2011, the Forest and Tree Cover of the country is 23.81% of the geographical area of the country. The forest cover of the country has registered a marginal decline of 0.05% as compared to the previous assessment published in ISFR 2009.

(c) & (d) In the India State of Forest Report, the forests are classified into three categories such as Very Dense Forest (VDF), Moderately Dense Forest (MDF) & Open Forests not as degraded forests. The area covered by Very Dense Forests (VDF) is 83,471 km2 (2.54%), that with Moderately Dense Forests (MDF) is 320,736 km2 (9.76%) and Open Forests is 287,820 km2 (8.75%). The details of Open Forest Cover State-wise is given in Annexure I.

(e) Forests are defined legally in accordance to the provisions of Indian Forest Act, 1927 such as Reserve Forests, Protected Forests and Village Forests.

However, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India has extended the scope of forest and “forest” must be understood according to its dictionary meaning. This description cover all statutorily recognized forests, whether designated as reserved, protected or otherwise, including any area recorded as forest in the Government records irrespective of the ownership, for the purpose of Section 2 (i) of the Forest Conservation Act.

In India State of Forest Report, the different categories of forests are defined for assessment of forest cover on the basis of tree canopy density which are as follows:-

1. Very Dense Forest All lands with tree canopy density of 70% and above 2. Moderately Dense Forest All lands with tree canopy density between 40% and 70% 3. Open Forest All land with tree canopy density between 10% - 40%

Annexure I referred to in reply to parts ( c) & (d) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1408 due for answer on 27-03-2012 regarding ‘Forest Report, 2011”

Details of Open forest cover in States/UTs in India (area in sq km) State / UT Geographical Area Open Forest Andhra Pradesh 275069 19297 Arunachal Pradesh 83743 15023 Assam 78438 14825 Bihar 94163 3334 Chhattisgarh 135191 16600 Delhi 1483 120 Goa 3702 1091 Gujarat 196022 9012 Haryana 44212 1124 Himachal Pradesh 55673 5074 Jammu & Kashmir 222236 9639 Jharkhand 79714 10470 Karnataka 191791 14238 Kerala 38863 6464 Madhya Pradesh 308245 36074 Maharashtra 307713 21095 Manipur 22327 10209 Meghalaya 22429 7067 Mizoram 21081 12897 Nagaland 16579 7094 Orissa 155707 20477 Punjab 50362 1028 Rajasthan 342239 11567 Sikkim 7096 698 Tamil Nadu 130058 10356 Tripura 10486 3182 Uttar Pradesh 240928 8153 Uttarakhand 53483 5567 West Bengal 88752 5365 A&N Islands 8249 547 Chandigarh 114 6 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 491 97 Daman & Diu 112 5.53 32 9.88 Puducherry 480 14.69 Grand Total 3287263 287820

ECO-DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES IN THE COUNTRY 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1409

SHRI Y.S. CHOWDARY

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

(a) the details of degraded forest areas and lands adjoining the forest areas, National Parks, sanctuaries and other protected areas, across the country; (b) the details of fund earmarked for promoting afforestation, tree planting, ecological restoration and eco- development activities in the country; (c) the details of area/land covered till date under afforestation scheme; and (d) by when the remaining land areas will be covered?

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

(a) to (d) Separate assessment of degraded forest land in the country as a classification has not been undertaken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. However, as per India State of Forest Report, 2011, about 4.22 million ha area is the recorded ‘Scrub Forest’ which is deemed as degraded. The recorded ‘Open Forest’ area of about 28.78 million ha also has the tracts of degraded forest lands.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for afforestation & eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in participatory mode under Joint Forest Management (JFM). Since the inception of NAP during 10th Plan, an area of about 1.8 million ha has been targeted till date by incurring an investment of about Rs.2762 crore.

In order to improve eco-system services and to gear up afforestation & regeneration of degraded forest tracts, an area of about 10 million ha is envisaged to be tackled under Green India Mission (GIM) during 12th and 13th Five Year Plan period. The 12th Plan outlay of NAP has also been proposed as Rs.10,000 crore against the outlay of Rs.2000 crore during 11th Plan. In addition, various State Governments are also implementing schemes for improvement of degraded forest utilizing State funds and externally aided projects.

PROPOSAL FOR NEW HUBLI-ANKOLA RAILWAY LINE 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1410 DR. VIJAY MALLYA

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

(a) whether the Ministry has received a proposal for the new Hubli-Ankola railway line; (b) whether Government has raised any environment related objections; (c) if so, the details thereof; and (d) the present status of the proposal?

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

(a) to (d) The Ministry of Environment and Forests had received a proposal for diversion of forest land under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The Forest Advisory Committee had recommended in its meeting held on 25.10.2004 to critically revise the proposal in consultation with Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (Central), Regional Office, Bangalore, Ministry of Environment and Forests and submit a revised proposal for construction of railway line along with the details of the alternatives explored. The matter is now pending before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India through the Central Empowered Committee.

ROAD-MAP FOR POLLUTION FREE RIVERS 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1411

DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA

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

(a) the status of pollution and water quality in principal rivers of the country; (b) the main sources of pollution; (c) the Road-Map for making rivers pollution free; and (d) the time-frame by when each of these rivers is likely to be pollution free?

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

(a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board in association with State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Committees have established a network of 1085 Water Quality Monitoring Stations along various river stretches. Water quality data in respect of Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) has exceeded the desired water quality criteria (< 3 mg/per litre) in 150 river stretches covering 121 rivers. The major cause of rising organic pollution, particularly BOD, in these rivers is due to discharge of untreated and partially treated domestic effluents by various municipalities across the country. Details of number of polluted stretches and rivers statewise are at Annexure.

(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 pollution abatement in identified river stretches through the centrally sponsored National River Conservation Plan, which presently covers 40 rivers in 190 towns spread over 20 states. Pollution abatement schemes implemented under the Plan include interception, diversion and treatment of sewage; low cost sanitation works on river banks; electric/improved wood crematoria etc.

Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) & (b) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1411 to be answered on 27.03.2012 on ‘Road-Map for Pollution free rivers’.

State-wise details of polluted river stretches

Sl. No. Name of State Name of the River No. of polluted stretches 1 Andhra Pradesh Godavari, Krishna, Manjira, Musi, Maner, Nakkavagu, Pennar and 9 Tungabhadra 2 Assam Bharalu, Burhidihing, Deepar bill and Kalong 4 3 Chandigarh Attawa choe, Patiala ki Rao and Sukhna choe 3 4 Delhi Yamuna 1 5 Gujarat Ambika, Anas, Amlakhadi, Bhogavo, Baleshwar Khadi, Dhadar, Daman 19 Ganga, Khari, Kaveri, Kim, Kolak, Mindhola, Mahi, Panam, Shedi, Sabarmati, and Tapi 6 Haryana Ghaggar, Gurgaon canal, Markanda, Western Yamuna canal, and Yamuna 5 7 Himachal Pradesh Beas, Markanda and Sukhna, 3 8 Madhya Betwa, Chambal, Kshipra, Khan, Kalisot, Mandakini, Tons and Narmada 9 Pradesh 9 Maharashtra Bhima, Godavari, Mula & mutha, Pawana, Panchganga, Patalganga, 28 Indrayani, Koyna, Kundalika, Kalu, Kanhan, Kolar, Mithi, Tapi, Girna, Nira, Weinganga, Wardha, Krishna, Purna, Nira, Chandrabhaga, Venna river, Ulhas, Rangavali and Bhatsa 10 Punjab Satluj and Ghaggar 2 11 Tamil Nadu Adyar, Coovum, Cauvery, Noyyal, Vaigai, Tambiraparani, Bhavani and 9 Palar 12 Uttar Yamuna, Hindon, Western kali (Partly Covered), Kali nadi eastern, Bagad, 12 Pradesh Ganga, Gomti, Ramganga, Saryu and Rihand 13 Karnataka Bhadra, Tunga, Tungabhadra, Laxmantirtha, Kali, Krishna, Hundri, Kundu, 11 Arkavati and Malprabha 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 Orissa Kathjodi, Brahmani, Mahanadi and Kuakhai 4 24 Pondicherry 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 FOREST LAND FOR INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1412

SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL

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

(a) whether Government has sanctioned forest land on lease for mining purpose in Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh; (b) if so, the extent of land presently under lease with private and public sectors; (c) the criteria for allowing forest land for non-forest purpose; (d) whether forest land was given for infrastructure development projects in the last three years; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) The Central Government as on 29.02.2012, accorded 169 approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 12,028.72 hectares of forest land for mining projects in Karnataka. Central Government also accorded 182 approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 16,059 hectares of forest land for mining projects in Madhya Pradesh.

(c) Proposals seeking prior approval of the Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes are processed in accordance with the procedure stipulated under the Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 issued by the Central Government. Keeping in view the quality and legal status of the forest land proposed for diversion and likely impacts of non-forest activity proposed to be undertaken in the forest land on environment in general, and forests, wildlife and local communities in particular, approval for diversion of forest land is accorded after ascertaining, through careful examination of all feasible alternates, that requirement of the forest land is unavoidable and bare minimum.

(d) & (e) The Central Government during the last three year (w.e.f. 21.03.2009 to 22.03.2012) accorded 2,723 approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 46,266.39 hectares of forest land for execution of infrastructure projects. Category-wise details of the same is as below:

Sl. No. Category No. of approvals Area diverted (in hectares) 1. Dispensary/ Hospitals 8 9.94 2. Drinking Water Projects 100 87.01 3. Hydel Projects 104 6,561.12 4. Irrigation Projects 150 13,188.02 5. Railways Projects 52 1,650.77 6. Road Projects 1728 15,179.40 7. Schools 28 42.19 8. Thermal Power Projects 12 1,553.10 9. Transmission Line Projects 512 6,348.68 10. Village Electrification 7 12.80 11. Wind Power Projects 22 1,633.36 Total 2,723 46,266.39

POLLUTION CAUSED BY INDUSTRIES 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1413

SHRI

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

(a) the number of highly polluting industries in the country, State-wise; (b) whether some highly polluting industries are yet to conform to the pollution control standards set by the respective State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs); (c) if so, whether any penalties have been imposed on such industries; (d) whether the pollution caused by such industries is periodically analyzed by the State Pollution Control Boards; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

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 (HPIs) which include thermal power plants, cement plants, distilleries, etc. A total of 2720 industries have been identified as HPIs by CPCB (State-wise list annexed). Out of 2720 HPIs, 2076 units are reportedly complying with the environmental standards whereas, 261 units are closed and 383 units have not provided adequate facilities to comply with the environmental standards.

(c)to(e). The State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) ensure the compliance of environmental standards in an industry under the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. Under Environmental Surveillance Squad (ESS) scheme, CPCB undertakes inspections of 17 categories of HPIs to seek compliance of environmental standards.

In case of non-compliance, directions are issued by CPCB to concerned SPCB under Section 18(1)(b) of the Water Act, 1974 or the Air Act, 1981 to ensure compliance of standards. Actions in the form of show cause notices, closure orders and prosecutions are initiated by the SPCBs against the erring industries. Sometimes, directions are issued directly under section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 by CPCB or by the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1413 DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.3.2012 REGARDING POLLUTION CAUSED BY INDUSTRIES BY SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY:

STATUS OF 17 CATEGORIES OF HIGHLY POLLUTING INDUSTRIES MARCH-2012

S. No. Name of the State/Union Territory Complying Not Complying Closed Total 1 Assam 20 4 0 24 2. Andhra Pradesh 345 77 28 450 3. Bihar 17 0 0 17 4. Chattisgarh 13 3 1 17 5. Goa 17 0 0 17 6. Gujarat 314 4 2 320 7. Haryana 70 10 0 80 8. Himachal Pradesh 16 0 2 18 9. Jammu &Kashmir 7 0 3 10 10. Jharkhand 22 2 4 28 11. Karnataka 126 21 14 161 12. Kerala 25 8 16 49 13. Madhya Pradesh 56 19 3 78 14. Maharashtra 267 4 68 339 15. Meghalaya 2 9 0 11 16. Orissa 41 16 8 65 17. Punjab 56 13 14 83 18. Rajasthan 82 30 25 137 19. Tamil Nadu 209 15 9 233 20. Tripura 13 1 1 15 21. Uttarakhand 24 10 11 45 22. Uttar Pradesh 276 68 40 384 23. West Bengal 46 69 12 127 24. Chandigarh 0 0 0 0 25. Daman 2 0 0 2 26. Delhi 3 0 0 3 27. Pondichery 7 0 0 7 28. Sikkim 0 0 0 0 29. Arunachal Pradesh 0 0 0 0 30. Manipur 0 0 0 0 31. Andaman& Nicobar 0 0 0 0 32. Nagaland 0 0 0 0

33. Lakshadweep 0 0 0 0 Total 2076 383 261 2720

CONSTRUCTION OF TUNNEL IN PIR PANJAL 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1414

SHRI G.N. RATANPURI

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

(a) whether flow of water in a number of springs in the vicinity of the railway tunnel across the Pir Panjal has dwindled or stopped as a consequence of construction of the tunnel; (b) whether this aspect was considered while clearing the construction of the tunnel;

(c) whether any study has been conducted in this regard; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) Construction of Railway tunnels does not come under the purview of Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 and does not, therefore, require prior environment clearance. Further, the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 do not extend to the State of Jammu & Kashmir. Hence, the Ministry has not accorded any clearance for construction of tunnel in Pir Panjal.

(b) to (d) Question does not arise in view of the reply given to part (a) above.

ANIMAL WELFARE FORTNIGHT 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1415

SHRI :

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS be pleased to state;

(a) whether the Animal Welfare Fortnight was celebrated in the recent past; (b) if so, the details of the programme organized during the said period in various parts of the country; (c) the details of aims and objectives thereof; and (d) the extent to which the various programmes organized during this period have obtained their objectives in the country?

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

(a) & (b) Yes, Sir. Animal Welfare Fortnight was celebrated during 14-31st January, 2012 all across the country with the participation of State Governments, State Animal Welfare Boards, Animal Husbandry Departments, Recognized Animal Welfare Organizations.

During Animal Welfare Fortnight, rallies in various states, talks for Residents Welfare Associations and school children, Anti Plastic Campaigning, Awareness Programmes, Veterinary Camps, mass Anti- Rabies Vaccination Camps, Campaign to focus on adoption of dogs, advocacy and humane education for school children, were organized.

(c) Animal Welfare Fortnight was celebrated to generate awareness about humane treatment of animals, sensitize citizens on prevention of cruelty to animals and about the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and the various rules made thereunder.

(d) Animal Welfare Fortnight celebration contribute a lot in spreading the message of respect for life of each living being, as also of human beings’ obligation to co-exist with animals and treat them with kindness and compassion.

CONSERVATION OF FOREST LAND 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1416

SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR

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

(a) the details of percentage of land in the country at present covered by forests; (b) the expanse of land where illegal cutting happened during the last three years; and (c) whether any concrete plan is being implemented for conservation of forest land by Government ? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN):

(a) As per the India State of Forest Report 2011 the Forest and Tree Cover of the country is 23.81% of the geographical area of the country.

(b) The details of illegal cutting of trees in the country during last three years are given in Annexure I.

(c) 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 31-10-2011, 800 FDA projects have been approved in 28 States in the country to treat an area of 18.32 lakh hectares since inception of the Scheme in 2002. Further, the funds released by the Ministry, for strengthening of forest protection, infrastructure, fire protection, demarcation of forest boundaries, construction of facilities for frontline staff and communication under the Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IIFMS), has contributed towards increase in the forest cover.

Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1416 due for answer on 27-03-2012 regarding ‘Conservation of forest land

Number of illegal felling of trees reported for the years 2007-08, 2008-09 and 2009-2010

S. No States 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 1 Andhra Pradesh 24795 38492 28222 2 Goa 155 237 207 3 Gujarat 5825 5482 5585 4 Haryana 4545 6317 - 5 Jharkhand 307 192 114 6 Karnataka 3811 4077 2301 7 Orissa 71922 65221 - 8 Rajasthan 11217 11662 9879 9 West Bengal 1067 1094 581 10 Nagaland Nil Nil Nil 11 A&N Island 3 0 2 12 Chandigarh Nil Nil Nil 13 Lakshdweep Nil Nil Nil 14 Delhi Nil Nil Nil

LEVEL OF AIR POLLUTION IN DELHI 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1417

DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE

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

(a) whether Government has assessed the level of air pollution in Delhi in the aftermath of mass introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) driven public and private transport vehicles; (b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) the steps taken by Government for improving the quality of air in the metropolitan cities?

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

(a) & (b) The ambient air quality is being monitored in 216 cities, towns and industrial areas all over the country including Delhi under the National Ambient Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP). The parameters which are monitored are Sulphur Dioxides (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Particulate Matter (PM10). The details on ambient air quality parameters monitored in Delhi from 2001 to 2010 are annexed. The changes in the air quality of Delhi before and after the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) / Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) indicate decline in Sulphur Dioxides (SO2) levels whereas the levels of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Particulate Matter (PM10) indicate increasing trends. The change in air quality of Delhi, however, is attributable to a number of different factors.

(c) The steps taken by Government for improving the quality of air in the metropolitan cities include:

i. A Source Apportionment Study in six cities including Delhi has been carried out by CPCB in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute etc. which provides contribution of transport sector to ambient Particulate Matter PM10 levels in Bangalore (11-23%), Chennai (35-48%), Delhi (9-21%), Kanpur (15-17%), Mumbai (8- 26%) and Pune (2-10%). ii. Bharat Stage –IV emission norms for 4-wheelers have been implemented in 13 cities of the country from April, 2010, while Bharat Stage -III emission norms for 4-wheelers have been implemented in the rest of the country from April, 2010.

iii. Mass emission standards (Bharat Stage III) have been notified for 2/3- wheelers and diesel driven agriculture tractors from April, 2010 throughout country.

iv. Public transportation systems in several major cities are now running on clean fuels like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

v. Pollution under Control (PUC) norms for diesel vehicles have been revised and made stringent from the year 2010.

vi. Metro and the rapid mass transport systems have been introduced in major cities.

vii. Action plans have been prepared and are being implemented for 16 highly polluting cities apart from Delhi as per the directives of Hon’ble Supreme Court.

ANNEXURE REFERRED IN RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 1417 DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.3.2012 REGARDING LEVEL OF AIR POLLUTION IN DELHI BY DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE: (Annual Average of all nine stations) (concentration in micrograms per cubic meter) Year Parameters

(SO2) (NO2) (PM10) 2001 14 29 120

2002 11 33 143 2003 10 38 127 2004 10 40 135 2005 10 44 115 2006 9 43 136 2007 4 36 159 2008 6 57 214 2009 6 50 252 2010 5 55 261 NB: Standards (annual average): 1. From 2001 – Nov. 2009: SO2 -60µg/m3 (); NOX - 60µg/m3; RSPM/PM10 - 60µg/m3. 2. From Nov. 2009 onwards in residential areas: SO2 -50µg/m3; NOX - 40µg/m3; RSPM/PM10 - 60µg/m3.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE OF CATEGORY B PROJECTS 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1418

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR

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

(a) whether Government intends to return power of environment clearance of category B projects in critically polluted area to the respective State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC)/State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA); (b) if so, the details of time-frame set in this regard; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) to (c) Under the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, Ministry of Environment & Forests, Govt. of India has delegated the powers to the respective State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) for grant of environmental clearance in respect of category B project. However, as per general condition stipulated in the EIA Notification, 2006, any project or activity specified in Category ‘B’ will be treated as Category ‘A’ if located in whole or in part within 10 Km from the boundary of critically polluted areas as notified by the Central Pollution Control Board from time to time.

INSTALLATION OF UNIFORM AIR QUALITY INFORMATION SYSTEM IN DELHI 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1419

SHRI MOHAMMED ADEEB

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

(a) whether there is any proposal to install Uniform Air Quality Information System in Delhi as per the directions of Supreme Court; (b) if so, by when; (c) whether there is any proposal of installing this system in the big cities throughout 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)

(b) to (e). The ambient air quality is being monitored across the country under the National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP) since 1984-85. Three pollutants, namely, Sulphur Dioxide (SO2),

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and PM10 (particulate matter having size less than 10 micron) are monitored at all stations while other nine pollutants (PM2.5, O3, CO, NH3, C6H6, BaP, Pb, Ni and As) at select locations as per revised National Ambient Air Quality Standards (2009). There are 510 operating air quality monitoring stations under NAMP covering 211 cities, towns and industrial areas in 26 States and 5 Union Territories as on 29.02.2012.

The data so collected under NAMP by the State Pollution Control Board/Pollution Control Committee is entered into the Common Data Base of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) known as Environmental Data Bank (EDB). This data is collated, compiled, processed and published annually by CPCB.

As reported by Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Government of NCT of Delhi, there is no direction of Hon’ble Supreme Court to install a uniform air quality information system in Delhi.

INSTALLATION OF FGD IN COAL BASED THERMAL POWER STATIONS 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1420

SHRI MOTILAL VORA

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

(a) whether Government is aware that Angul ( Odisha), Bharuch(Gujarat), Singrauli (Madhya Pradesh), Cuddalore (Tamil Nadu), Jharsuguda (Odisha), Chandrapur (Maharashtra), Korba (Chhattisgarh) and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) are highly polluted areas; (b) whether Government would make compulsory the use of Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) technique to separate sulphur dioxide in coal based thermal power stations to be established in these areas, so that, increase in pollution may be restrained there; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT- Delhi) had carried out survey based on Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) for assessment of pollution load of industrial areas in 88 major industrial clusters in the country. 43 such industrial clusters including Chandrapur, Korba, Angul Talcher, Cuddalore, Jharsuguda, Vishakhapatnam & Singrauli have been declared as critically polluted.

(b) & (c) Installation of Flue Gas Desulphurisation(FGD) plants is stipulated on case to case basis while granting the environmental clearance taking into consideration the Sulphur content in the coal to be used and the status of ambient air quality in the region.

FOREST DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS FROM THE STATES 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1421

SHRI DHIRAJ PRASAD SAHU

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

(a) whether the Union Government has received any proposals from various State Governments for forest development in their States;

(b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the estimated expenditure likely to be incurred for the purpose; and (d) the time by which these proposals are likely to be accorded sanction by the Union Government?

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

(a) to (d) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is implementing two major Centrally Sponsored Schemes for afforestation and development of forests namely National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for eco-restoration of degraded forest and adjoining areas in the country and Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IFMS) for the protection and conservation of forests. The funds under these schemes are released taking into account the proposals submitted by the States, budget availability, guidelines of the scheme, and performance of the States etc. The funds released under these schemes in the current year 2011-12 to various States are given in the Annexure I and II.

Annexure - I

Annexure referred to in reply to part (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1421 by Shri Dhiraj Prasad Sahu regarding Forest Development proposals from the States due for reply on 27/03/2012.

National Afforestation Programme Scheme S. No. State Amount Released 2011-12 (till 29.02.2012) (Rs. in crore) 1 Andhra Pradesh 15.15 2 Bihar 3.31 3 Chhattisgarh 33.46 4 Goa 0.00 5 Gujarat 27.00 6 Haryana 12.28 7 Himachal Pradesh 3.50 8 Jammu & Kashmir 0.00 9 Jharkhand 0.00 10 Karnataka 12.49 11 Kerala 2.04 12 Madhya Pradesh 20.80 13 Maharashtra 28.51 14 Orissa 3.15 15 Punjab 0.46 16 Rajasthan 4.39 17 Tamil Nadu 3.08 18 Uttar Pradesh 26.23 19 Uttarakhand 6.49 20 West Bengal 6.29 Total (Other States) 208.62 21 Arunachal Pradesh 0.00 22 Assam 0.00 23 Manipur 9.84 24 Meghalaya 4.31 25 Mizoram 13.36 26 Nagaland 8.36 27 Sikkim 4.25 28 Tripura 13.61 Total (NE States) 53.73 G. Total 262.35

Annexure-II referred to in reply to part (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1421 by Shri Dhiraj Prasad Sahu regarding Forest Development proposals from the States due for reply on 27/03/2012.

Intensification of Forest Management Scheme

(Rs.in crore) S. No. States Amount released 2011-12 Other States 1 Andhra Pradesh 0.00 2 Bihar 0.82 3 Chhattisgarh 4.30 4 Gujarat 3.48 5 Goa 0.11 6 Haryana 0.76 7 Himachal Pradesh 2.47 8 Jammu & Kashmir 0.00 9 Jharkhand 2.71 10 Karnataka 3.48 11 Kerala 1.36 12 Madhya Pradesh 6.98 13 Maharashtra 3.74 14 Orissa 1.33 15 Punjab 0.00 16 Rajasthan 1.61 17 Tamil Nadu 2.46 18 Uttar Pradesh 1.40 19 Uttarakhand 2.30 20 West Bengal 0.51 Total 39.82 North Eastern States 1 Assam 2.46 2 Arunachal Pradesh 2.61 3 Manipur 3.29 4 Meghalaya 1.61 5 Mizoram 2.53 6 Nagaland 3.47 7 Sikkim 2.89 8 Tripura 0.61 Total 19.47 Union Territories 1 A & N Islands 0.30 2 Chandigarh 0.35 3 D&N Haveli 0.00 4 Daman & Diu 0.00 5 Lakshadweep 0.00 6 Delhi 0.00 7 Pondicherry 0.00 Total 0.65 Grand Total 59.94

GREEN CREDIT SCHEME 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1422

SHRI KANJIBHAI PATEL

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the State Government of Gujarat has submitted “Green Credit” scheme to the Union Government for approval; (b) if so, whether the Union Government has taken any action on this proposal; (c) whether it is a fact that although the Hon’ble Minister and the Secretary of the Department have agreed in principle, yet the scheme is not 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) Yes Sir, the State Government of Gujarat has submitted “Green Credit” Scheme to the Ministry of Environment & Forests for approval.

(b) The proposal has been examined in the Ministry and requires approval of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India

(c) & (d) No, the Secretary and the Hon’ble Minister have not agreed to the proposal.

DECLINE IN FORESTS COVER 27th March, 2012

RSQ 1423

DR.

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

(a) whether Government is aware that India’s forest cover has declined to 23 per cent of its land area according to latest estimates; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; (c) the steps Government proposes to arrest this decline and increase the forest cover; (d) whether the afforestation schemes have been a failure due to lack of monitoring and most of the saplings have died in the recent years; and (e) the remedial steps taken by Government in this regard?

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

(a) As per the India State of Forest Report 2011, the total forest and tree cover is 23.81% of geographical area of the country. The forest cover of the country has decreased marginally by 367 sq. km. as compared to the previous assessment published in India State of Forest Report 2009.

(b) As per India State of Forest Report 2011, 13 States / UTs have shown decrease in forest cover to the extent of 867 square kilometer in the States whose details are given in Annexure I alongwith the reasons. There is also an increase of 500 sq. km of forest cover in the States of Rajasthan, Punjab, Jharkhand, Orissa and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. So, effectively there is net decline of forest cover to the tune of 367 sq. km.

(c) The Government of India has taken various initiatives to expand forest and tree cover in the country. 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. Besides NAP, various steps taken to arrest decline and increase the forest cover in country include:-

 XIIIth has recommended Rs. 5000 crore for five years starting from 2010-11 for conservation and development of forests;  Additional Central assistance of Rs. 81.66 Crores has been released to the States during 2009-10 for Restoration and Regeneration of Forest Cover.  Tree planting is also an approved activity under MGNREGA, and other schemes of Central and State Governments.  The National Mission for a Green India has been launched, as one of the eight Mission under the National Action Plan on Climate Change. The Mission focuses on enhancing ecosystem services and carbon sink through afforestation and eco restoration of 10 million ha. of forest and non forest lands over 12th and 13th Plan period.

(i) Under the National Action Plan on Climate Change announced by the Central Government, a National Mission for a ‘Green India’ has been mooted in which quality to improve the degraded forests along with afforestation are major objectives.

(ii) Under the award of 13th Finance Commission, a grant of Rs.5000 crores has been allocated as “Forest Grants” to the states on the basis of their forest cover in the State in relation to the national average. It has been further weighted by the quality of the forests in each state as measured by density.

(iii) Afforestation activities are undertaken under various External Aided Projects by 12 States.

(d) & (e) No, Sir. Afforestation scheme such as NAP, as indicated in reply to part (c) of the question, has covered an area of 18.32 lakhs hectares under afforestation since inception of the scheme in 2002.

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 & Flood Prone River (RVP&FPR), Reclamation and Development of Alkali & 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.

Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1423 due for answer on 27-03-2012 regarding Decline in forests cover

States / UTs wise decline in forests cover in the country and reasons therefore

S. No States Change from ISFR Major reasons for loss 2009(km2) 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 -74 Change in forest cover in the state is because of shifting Pradesh 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

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO POSCO PROJECT 24th April, 2012

RSQ *265

SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD

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

(a) Whether it is a fact that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has cancelled the environmental clearance earlier accorded to Odisha based POSCO Steel Project; (b) If so, the details thereof, and (c) the reasons advanced for the cancellation of the clearance given earlier?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT & 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), (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 265 REGARDING “ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO POSCO PROJECT” ASKED BY SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD FOR ANSWER ON 24.04.2012.

(a), (b) & (c) Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) had granted environmental clearance on 19.7.2007 to an integrated iron and steel plant by M/s POSCO - India Pvt. Ltd. in Orissa subject to various environmental safeguards. Based on the reports submitted by a four member Committee, additional conditions were stipulated on 31st January, 2011.

In an appeal filed before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) challenging the environmental clearance accorded on 19.7.2007 as well as the order dated 31st January, 2011 imposing additional conditions, the NGT vide its Judgment dated 30th March, 2012 has suspended the order dated 31st January, 2011 of MoEF. NGT has further directed that MoEF shall make a fresh review of the Project with specific reference to the observations/ apprehensions raised by the Review Committee by issuing fresh TORs.

PURIFICATION OF MAJOR RIVERS IN THE COUNTRY 24th April, 2012

RSQ *268

SHRI

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

(a) the details of the action plan for the purification of the major rivers of the country namely, Ganga, Yamuna, Krishna, Kaveri, Narmada, Chambal, Godavari, etc.; (b) the funds sanctioned for implementation of the action plan; and (c) the details of the status of implementation of the action plan, so far?

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. 268 to be answered on Tuesday the 24th April, 2012 on Purification of Major Rivers in the Country raised by Shri Thawar Chand Gehlot

(a) to (c) The river conservation programme started with the launching of the Ganga Action Plan (GAP) Phase-I in the year 1985, and later expanded to include other major rivers under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). NRCP presently covers 40 rivers in 190 towns spread over 20 States. Details of the rivers covered state- wise, sanctioned cost of projects and funds released under the Plan are indicated in the Annexure. Pollution abatement schemes implemented under the Plan include interception, diversion and treatment of sewage; low cost sanitation works on river banks; electric/improved wood crematoria etc. Out of 1152 pollution abatement schemes sanctioned 871 schemes have been completed so far. The sanctioned cost of projects is Rs.7860.83 crore as on 31st March, 2012. Sewage treatment capacity of 4664 million litres per day has been created so far under the Plan.

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. Projects amounting to Rs. 2598 crore have been sanctioned so far under the NGRBA programme. Besides, a project under the NGRBA with World Bank assistance for abatement of pollution of river Ganga at an estimated cost of Rs. 7000 crore has also been approved for implementation by the Central Government.

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 pollution abatement in identified river stretches under NRCP. Creation of infrastructure for sewage management and disposal is also being undertaken through other central schemes, such as Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission and Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns, as well as under state schemes.

Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.268 to be answered on Tuesday, the 24th April, 2012 on ‘Purification of Major Rivers in the Country’

State-wise Sanctioned Cost and funds released by the Central Government for Projects under National River Conservation Plan. (Rs. in crore) S. No. State River Sanctioned Cost Funds Released 1 Andhra Pradesh Godavari & Musi 367.51 259.80 2 Bihar Ganga 445.81 38.52 3 Jharkhand Damodar, Ganga & Subarnarekha 4.88 4.45 4 Gujarat Sabarmati 101.96 90.06 5 Goa Mandovi 14.10 9.26 6 Karnataka Bhadra, Tunga-bhadra, Cauvery, Tunga & Pennar 66.25 47.83 7 Maharastra Krishna, Godavari, Tapi & Panchganga 192.60 123.72 Betwa, Tapti, Wainganga, Khan, Narmada, 8 Madhya Pradesh 115.38 79.00 Kshipra, Beehar, Chambal & Mandakini. 9 Orissa Brahmini & Mahanadi 92.74 61.41 10 Punjab Satluj & Beas 730.83 271.90 11 Rajasthan Chambal 150.95 41.12 Cauvery, Adyar, Cooum, Vennar, Vaigai & 12 Tamilnadu 915.93 623.65 Tambarani 13 Delhi Yamuna 656.69 451.94 14 Haryana Yamuna 305.63 231.61 15 Uttar Pradesh Yamuna, Ganga & Gomti, Ramganga 2268.47 988.01 16 Uttrakhand Ganga 226.26 81.20 17 West Bengal Ganga, Damodar & Mahananda 1040.33 470.62 18 Kerala Pamba 18.45 2.78 19 Sikkim Rani Chu 114.31 68.76 20 Nagaland Diphu & Dhansiri 31.75 4.50 Total 7860.83 3950.14

MULTI-CRORE FORESTRY SCAM IN HARYANA 24th April, 2012

RSQ *276

SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

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

(a) Whether it is a fact that CBI has opined that the multi-crore forestry scam in Haryana exposed by a whistleblower is a fit case for it to investigate independently; (b) Whether it is also a fact that many officials have attempted to scuttle the investigation; and (c) If so, by when both the Union and State Governments would give their nod for independent investigation?

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.276 for answer on 24th April, 2012 regarding “Multi-crore forestry scam in Haryana” raised by Shri Baishnab Parida.

(a) to (c) :Based on a reference made by the Government to Central Vigilance Commission on the modalities for further investigations into certain allegations, made by an IFS Officer of the Government of Haryana, inter alia, relating to financial irregularities in implementation of plantation schemes in Haryana, the CVC consulted the CBI, who opined that the matter is worthy of an independent probe. CVC advised the Government to take up the matter with the Government of Haryana for transfer of the case to CBI.

Government has accordingly advised the State Government of Haryana to register an FIR and issue notification for entrusting the investigation to the CBI.

State Government has informed that they have initiated disciplinary proceedings against the delinquent officers in the case relating to plantations. Status in this regard has also been conveyed to the CVC.

WITHDRAWAL OF POWER FROM STATES FOR CRZ CLEARANCE 24th April, 2012

RSQ *277

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the power has been withdrawn from the State Authorities for granting Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance for those projects which do not require clearance under the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; and (c) whether Government would delegate this power back to the State Governments?

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 Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 277 on “Withdrawal of power from states for CRZ clearance” raised by SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR to be answered on 24th April, 2012.

(a) to (c) : As per the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 1991, the developmental activities based on investment criterion and foreshore facilities required clearance from Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. Other developmental activities required clearance from the State Authorities.

An Expert Committee headed by Prof M.S. Swaminathan was set up by MoEF to review the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991. Extensive consultations with various stakeholders including fishermen communities, local communities, NGOs and State Governments of Coastal States/UT Administrations were held. With a view to improve implementation and taking into account the need for sustainable development of coastal regions and conservation of coastal resources, MoEF notified CRZ Notification, 2011 and the Island Protection Zone Notification, 2011 on 6th January, 2011 in supersession of the CRZ Notification, 1991.

As per the CRZ Notification 2011, only certain categories of projects and projects not listed under Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 require clearance from Government of India. All other development or construction activities in different categories of CRZ are to be regulated by the concerned State Coastal Zone Management Authorities in accordance with the norms prescribed under the notification.

DECREASE IN THE FOREST COVER IN THE COUNTRY 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2026

SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY

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

(a) whether there has been a decrease in the forest cover of the country in the last few years; (b) if so, the reasons therefor and the details of the loss of forest cover, State-wise;

(c) whether there have been any noticeable effects on the environment as a result of such decrease in forest cover; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the steps Government is putting in place to mitigate the loss of forest cover in the country?

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

(a) Yes, Sir. As per the latest ‘India State of Forest Report 2011’ (ISFR 2011), the forest cover of the country has declined by 367 square kilometer with respect to previous assessment as given in India State of Forest Report, 2009.

(e) As per India State of Forest Report 2011, 13 States / UTs have shown decrease in forest cover to the extent of 867 square kilometre in the States such as Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram etc. 15 States have registered aggregate increase of 500 sq. km in their forest cover with Punjab leading with increase of 100 sq. km. The names of States where there is decline in forest cover along with the reasons for decline in forest cover is given in Annexure I.

(c) & (d) The marginal decline of 367 sq.km of forest cover in the country would not have any significant effect in environment as a whole.

(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 release funds under the Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IIFMS), for strengthening of forest protection such as infrastructure, fire protection, demarcation of forest boundaries, construction of facilities for frontline staff and communication which has contributed towards increase in the forest cover.

iii. Under the National Action Plan on Climate Change announced by the Central Government, a National Mission for a ‘Green India’ has been mooted in which quality to improve the degraded forests along with afforestation are major objectives.

iv. Under the award of 13th Finance Commission, a grant of Rs.5000 crores has been allocated as “Forest Grants” to the states on the basis of their forest cover in the State in relation to the national average. It has been further weighted by the quality of the forests in each state as measured by density.

v. Afforestation activities are undertaken under various External Aided Projects by 12 States.

Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 2026 due for answer on 24-04-2012 regarding ‘Decrease in the forest cover in the country’

States / UTs wise decline in forest cover in the country and reasons therefore

S.No States Change from Major reasons for loss ISFR 2009(km2) 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

ESTABLISHMENT OF RECYCLING UNITS FOR MERCURIC TOXIC WASTE 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2027

SHRI AVINASH PANDE

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

(a) whether Government has estimated the details of the amount of toxic mercuric waste generated by the use of mercury lamps including Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) and Fluorescent Tube Light (FTL); (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has issued guidelines to States asking them to encourage establishment of recycling units for mercuric toxic waste; (d) if so, the, names of States issued guidelines in this regard; (e) whether Government has sought any report on the status of the work; (f) whether Government plans to frame new polices by providing incentives for safe disposal to the end consumers; and (g) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (g): MoEF has set up an Inter-Ministerial Group, comprising of representatives from the Ministry of Power, Ministry of Urban Development, Ministry of Environment and Forests, Central Pollution Control Board, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Electric Lamps and Components and Manufacturer’s Association of India (ELCOMA), and NGOs (TERI, Toxics Link) in order to establish a functional framework for management of mercury containing CFLs/ FTLs in the country. MoEF has initiated a “Master Plan Study for collection, recycling and safe disposal of end of life mercury bearing lamps and associated electronics”. This study is a public-private initiative with an objective to inventorise base line status of use, recovery and disposal of fluorescent lamps, international best practices, management options and proposed institutional framework

Ministry of Environment and Forests has constituted a Task Force to evolve a policy on “Environmentally Sound Management of mercury in Fluorescent Lamps”. A Technical Committee, constituted by this Task Force, had prepared “Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Mercury Management in Fluorescent Lamps Sector”. These guidelines propose the best practices at various levels, such as at manufacturer’s level and include aspects relate to mercury consumption, process technology, raw mercury distillation, on-site storage, treatment, recycling and disposal of mercury bearing wastes, mercury spill management. The best practices at consumer’s level include handling of used/broken lamps, consumer awareness pertaining to collection, transport, treatment and disposal of used fluorescent lamps.

Ministry of Environment and Forests and Central Pollution Control Board have written to all the State Governments and Union Territories to encourage establishment of recycling units so that the fused Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) and Fluorescent Tube lights (FTLs) are properly collected and the mercury is recovered and recycled scientifically and safely.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR VERSOVA-BANDRA SEA LINK PROJECT 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2028

SHRI AVINASH PANDE

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

(a) whether Government has received proposal for environmental clearance for Versova-Bandra Sea Link project proposed to be constructed as a faster link between Bandra and Versova suburbs of Mumbai from the State Government of Maharashtra; (b) the current status of the clearance sought; and (c) how much time Government expects to complete the entire procedure?

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

(a) to (c) : The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has submitted a proposal to develop a sea link from Versova to Bandra in the suburbs of Mumbai. for clearance under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2011. The proposal was examined by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) in its meeting held on 9th –10th February, 2012. The Committee sought additional information viz. details of mangrove plantation, details of public consultation, likely impacts on Marine Environment, Fishing activity, traffic at connector points along with mitigation measures. MSRDC is yet to submit this information.

DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR OWK RESERVOIR 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2029

SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH

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

(a) the current status of the proposal of Government of Andhra Pradesh for diversion of 72.54 hectare of forest land in Kurnool division for the foreshore submergible area for Owk reservoir which is very crucial for irrigation and agricultural purposes and will benefit around one lakh people directly; (b) the constraints being felt in according clearance to it; and (c) by when required clearance is likely to be given?

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

(a) to (c) A proposal seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 72.54 hectares of forest land in Kurnool division for the foreshore submergible area for Owk reservoir has been received by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). The MoEF after examination of the proposal observed that it does not contain Survey of India Toposheet(s) (in original) indicating location and boundary of the forest land proposed for diversion and the location and boundary of the protected area(s), if any, located within 10 kilometers from the forest land proposed for diversion. The MoEF therefore, requested the State Government of Andhra Pradesh to submit the afore-mentioned Survey of India Toposheet(s). Receipt of the afore- mentioned Survey of India Toposheets is awaited from the State Government of Andhra Pradesh.

INTENSIFICATION OF FOREST MANAGEMENT & NPV 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2030

SMT. MAYA SINGH

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

(a) whether the Ministry has received a proposal from Government of Madhya Pradesh regarding the utilisation of the amount of Intensification of Forest Management and Net Present Value (NPV); (b) if so, the present status of the proposal and whether any time limit has been fixed for finalising the proposal; (c) whether the possibility of the hike in the expenditure of the work increases due to long time taken in the approval of the proposals; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) Yes Sir.

(b) As against the Proposals submitted by State of Madhya Pradesh in 2011-12, under Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IFMS), Annual Work Plans of Rs. 1174.41 lakhs has been sanctioned out of which Central Share is Rs. 880.81 and State Share is Rs. 293.60 lakhs. Out of Central Share, Rs. 697.65 lakhs has been released to State of Madhya Pradesh after adjusting unspent balance of year 2010-11. As against Annual Plan of Operation received from the Government of Madhya Pradesh for 2011-12 utilisation of CAMPA funds which included components of Compensatory Afforestation and utilisation of Net Present Value, an amount of Rs. 5352.09 lakhs has been sanctioned/released to the State of Madhya Pradesh.

(c) & (d) In view of the above, the question does not arise.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR DIVERTING FOREST LAND IN AP 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2031

SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH

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

(a) the latest status of the proposal of Andhra Pradesh (AP) Government for diversion of 1016 hectares of forest land in Proddutur, Kadapa, Rajampet and Nellore divisions for foreshore submersion and excavation of canals under Somasila project; (b) the reasons for not according environment approval to this forest land diversion proposal for Somasila project which aims to supply water for 27,500 acres of wet ayacut and 1,39,000 acres of ID ayacut in Nellore district; and (c) by when the required approval is likely to be given?

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

(a) to (c) A proposal seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 1016 hectares of forest land in Proddutur, Kadapa, Rajampet and Nellore divisions for foreshore submersion and excavation of canals under Somasila project was received by the Ministry of Environment and Forests in August 2007. A part of the said forest land falls in Lankamalleshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and Penusula Narasimha Swamy Wildlife Sanctuary. The State Government of Andhra Pradesh therefore, needs to obtain prior approval of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) and the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India before grant of approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 by the Central Government for diversion of the said forest land. The Standing Committee of the NBWL has recommended the proposal in its meeting held on 22.12.2009.

The Irrigation Department in the State Government of Andhra Pradesh has filed an I.A. before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India to obtain approval for diversion of the said forest land. Approval of the Hon’ble Supreme Court is awaited.

RELOCATION OF VILLAGES IN RESERVED AREAS IN M.P. 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2032

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) whether the Ministry has received any proposal from the State Government of Madhya Pradesh regarding relocating the villages situated in the reserved/notified areas in outer areas of forests and Village Development Scheme-28 forest village preserved areas; (b) if so, the present status of the proposals and whether any time limit has been fixed for the finalization of the proposal; (c) whether the possibility of the hike in the expenditure of the work increases due to long time taken in the approval of the proposal; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) No such proposal has been received in the Ministry from the State Government of Madhya Pradesh.

(b), (c) and (d) Does not arise.

REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENT POLICY 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2033

DR. E.M. SUDARSANA NATCHIAPPAN

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

(a) whether Government is working on ‘Pro Development Mode’ of environment policy by reviewing the policies and guidelines which resulted in slump in development and reduction in FDI and FII flows; and (b) if so, whether the public sector undertaking, Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL) will get the moratorium/ban imposed on Manali Industrial Cluster, lifted in 2012?

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

(a) The National Environment Policy has been adopted in 2006 with the objective, inter alia, to integrate environmental concerns into policies, plans, programmes and projects for economic and social development.

(b) The Manali Industrial Area, Manali (Tamil Nadu) is identified as one of the critically polluted areas and temporary restrictions on consideration of development projects in such cluster/area have been imposed. So far, this Ministry has not lifted moratorium on consideration of projects located in Manali Industrial Area (Tamil Nadu).

COMMERCIAL RELEASE OF BT BRINJAL 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2034

SHRI SANJAY RAUT

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

(a) whether it is a fact that scientists at the recently held conference on ‘Biotech crops for food security in India’ have appealed to Government to remove all constraints in the research and development work of biotech crops and lift moratorium on commercial release of Bt. Brinjal; (b) if so, the response of Government thereto; and (c) by when the Government will consider their appeal?

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

(a) Yes Sir, A Conference on ‘Biotech Crops for food security in India’ was organized by the Foundation for Biotechnology Awareness & Education (FBAE) in collaboration with the Association for Biotechnology Led Enterprise’s Agriculture Group (ABLE AG) on 27th February, 2012 at Bangalore. The outcome of the Conference has been brought out in the form of “The Bangalore Declaration”. The conference has urged government to lift the moratorium on Bt. Brinjal imposed two years ago and to functionalize the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India (BRAI) Bill.

(b) & (c) The matter of imposition of moratorium on Bt Brinjal is now under consideration of Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) of the Ministry, which in consultation with other eminent scientists is reviewing the issue in terms of the need for additional studies to assess the safety of Bt. Brinjal with respect to recent scientific developments and existing international best practices. The issue entails numbers of sensitive apprehensions especially with respect to long term impacts on biodiversity and health on which there is lack of consensus. Therefore, it may not be feasible to expedite the final decision on the matter. As far as BRAI Bill is considered, it is under active consideration of the Government and can be operationalized only after completion of due parliamentary procedures.

LOSS OF FOREST COVER DUE TO GLOBALIZATION AND INDUSTRIALIZATION 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2035

SHRI. RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA

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

(a) the extant to which forest covered areas have disappeared due to increase in globalization, industrialization, discovery of coal mines and urban areas; and (b) the details of the new forest covered areas developed by plantation during the last three years, State-wise? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) and (b) Category-wise details of approvals accorded under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes, from the date the afore-mentioned Act came into force on 25.10.1980, along with the State-wise details of the area of forest and public land covered under afforestation activities during last three years is annexed.

Annexure referred to in answer to parts (a) and (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No.2035 on ‘Loss of forest cover due to globalization and industrialization’ asked by Shri Raghunandan Sharma due for reply on 24.04.2012

A. Category-wise details of the approvals (State-I and Stage-II) accorded under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 from the date it came into force on 25.10.1980

(as on 18th April 2012) Approvals accorded (Stage-I Plus Stage-II) Category of Projects/ Proposals Number of proposals Area of forest land diverted (hectares) Defence Projects 245 46,087.90 Dispensaries/ Hospitals 40 115.16 Drinking water projects 1,524 2,441.32 Regularization of encroachments 64 3,68,432.07 Conversion of Forest villages into Revenue Villages 16 41,170.01 Hydel Projects 487 1,17,385.69 Irrigation Projects 2,086 1,26,902.03 Mining Projects 1,682 1,44,627.79 Railway Projects 272 8,503.20 Rehabiliation Projects 48 18,463.85 Road Projects 6,100 44,681.78 Schools 138 2,708.64 Thermal Power Projects 45 6,207.80 Transmission Line Projects 2,287 34,708.03 Village Electrification Projects 50 178.02 Wind Power Projects 69 3,860.04 Other Projects 7,843 1,74,627.02 TOTAL 22,996 11,41,100.34

B. State/UT-wise details of the area (in hectares) of plantations raised on public and forest land during last three years

Area of forest and public land covered under afforestation activities in (ha.) Sl. State/ UT No. 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12* Total

1 2 3 4 5 6. 1 Andhra Pradesh 2,43,931 3,83,927 3,53,567 9,81,425 2 Arunachal Pradesh 7,115 6,150 10,817 24,082 3 Assam 6,626 3,509 0 10,135 4 Bihar 21,366 15,378 20,360 57,104

Area of forest and public land covered under afforestation activities in (ha.) Sl. State/ UT No. 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12* Total

1 2 3 4 5 6. 5 Chhattisgarh 55,512 58,458 50,412 1,64,382 6 Goa 371 488 465 1,324 7 Gujarat 1,69,353 1,27,149 91,653 3,88,155 8 Haryana 20,770 79,883 57,124 1,57,777 9 Himachal Pradesh 20,165 24,710 26,123 70,998 10 Jammu and Kashmir 25,427 15,453 6,658 47,538 11 Jharkhand 28,950 21,914 31,894 82,758 12 Karnataka 83,641 94,376 65,487 2,43,504 13 Kerala 9,941 8,463 3,796 22,200 14 Madhya Pradesh 1,35,141 1,68,678 1,04,947 4,08,766 15 Maharashtra 2,16,891 1,78,498 1,11,854 5,07,243 16 Manipur 23,673 10,532 17,997 52,202 17 Meghalaya 1,096 654 6,765 8,515 18 Mizoram 2,983 7,197 4,775 14,955 19 Nagaland 0 4,790 1,047 5,837 20 Orissa 1,32,130 2,42,868 1,27,242 5,02,240 21 Punjab 11,548 13,711 6,965 32,224 22 Rajasthan 1,02,207 96,356 69,230 2,67,793 23 Sikkim 8,007 2,734 6,739 17,480 24 Tamil Nadu 66,446 95,499 44,581 2,06,526 25 Tripura 13,228 16,650 22,835 52,713 26 Uttarakhand 27,163 20,044 22,676 69,883 27 Uttar Pradesh 96,070 84,516 81,154 2,61,740 28 West Bengal 15,043 14,286 0 29,329 29 A & N Islands 1,738 1,377 1,237 4,352 30 Chandigarh 180 272 306 758 31 D & N Haveli 205 200 269 674 32 Daman & Diu 20 10 4 34 33 Delhi 123 1,496 1,095 2,714 34 Lakshadweep 20 27 17 64 35 Puducherry 50 33 30 113 Total 15,47,130 18,00,286 13,50,121 46,97,537 *: Till December 2011.

HUMAN ATTACKS ON LEOPARDS IN ASSAM 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2036

SHRIMATI SMRITI ZUBIN IRANI

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

(a) whether there has been a spurt in incidents of man-animal conflicts, particularly human attacks on leopards, over the past few months in Assam; (b) if so, the details thereof and how many cases of such attacks and vice versa were reported in the last three years and the loss of human life and animals; (c) whether reports of sharing of leopard meat which were killed by locals, came into Government’s notice; (d) if so, the details thereof and action taken in this regard; and (e) the steps taken/ propose to take to ensure that leopards are not killed further?

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

(a) & (b) Several incidents of leopards being killed by humans in Assam have been reported in the mass media during recent months. However, the Ministry does not have any reports which indicate any spurt in such incidents.

The issue of man animal conflict is looked after by the concerned State Governments and the details of the incidents of human attack on leopards and vice versa is not compiled in the Ministry.

(c) & (d) No such reports have been received in the Ministry from any State Government.

(e) The Ministry has issued ‘Guidelines for Human-Leopard Conflict Management’ to provide a guidance framework for the benefit of local communities, field forest officers, and revenue and other district administration officials and to be adopted to deal with incidents of loss of life and livestock caused by leopards. The Ministry also provides financial assistance to the State Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ and ‘Project Tiger’ for payment of ex-gratia relief to the victims of wildlife attack and scientific management of the habitats of wild animals including leopards.

INCREASE IN POLLUTION LEVEL IN KONKAN REGION 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2037

SHRI SANJAY RAUT

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

(a) whether it is a fact that due to several power projects coming up in coastal areas (b) of the Konkan Region of Maharashtra, the pollution level has increased considerably affecting the livelihood of fishermen and affecting mango production; (c) whether Government has received any report to this effect; and (d) if not, whether Government has tried to ascertain details and take remedial measures?

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

(a) to (c) As reported by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), it has granted Consent to Establish to several new coal based thermal power plants along the Konkan coast as per the enclosed Annexure-I. Also, there are power generation facilities in the coastal area from the existing power plants as per Annexure-II. The emission and pollution control standards of the new power plants have been made very stringent in comparison to the existing thermal power plants by MPCB. The Ministry has also in its notification dated 16.11.2009 increased the number of parameters for ambient air quality monitoring to twelve and also made them more stringent compared to the previous six parameters.

As reported by the MPCB, no complaint has been received due to increasing pollution level in the Konkan region of Maharashtra.

Annexure-I referred to in reply to parts (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 2037 to be answered on 24.4.2012 on Increase in Pollution Level in Konkan Region raised by Shri Sanjay Raut.

New Coal based Thermal Power Plants proposed along the Konkan Coast

S. Name & address of the unit Fuel used Capacity in MW No. 1 M/s.Tata Power Ltd; Dheran, Dist.Raigad Coal 1600 2 M/s.Maharashtra Energy Generation Ltd; Shahapur, Natural Gas & Coal 4000 Dist.Raigad 3 M/s.Patni Energy Pvt.Ltd; Nagothane, Dist.Raigad Coal 405 4 Maharashtra State Power Generation Company, Dhopawe, Coal 1600 Dist.Ratnagiri 5 M/s.Reliance Industry Ltd; Nagothane Natural Gas 800 6 M/s.GMR Energy Ltd; Ratnagiri Coal 1980 7 Suprime Petrochem Ltd, Amdoshi, Tal Roha ,Raigad Gas 4 8 M/s Welspun Maxsteel Ltd, Vill Salav, Tal Murud, Dist Raigad Coal 330 9 M/s Urban energy generation Pvt Ltd, Vill ,Tal Roha Dist Gas 2100 Raigad 10 M/s urban energy generation Pvt Ltd, Vill Vangani turfe Gas 2100 Taloja, Tal Panvel Dist Raigad 11 M/s Ruchi Soya Indu stries Ltd, Vill Essambe, Tal Khalapur, Coal Based-Captive 4.42 Dist Raigad

Annexure-II referred to in reply to parts (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 2037 to be answered on 24.4.2012 on Increase in Pollution Level in Konkan Region raised by Shri Sanjay Raut.

Existing Power Plants along the Konkan Coast

S.No. Name & address of the unit Fuel used Capacity in MW 1 Maharashtra State Power Generation Company, Uran, Dist.Raigad Gas 612 2 Ratnagiri Power & Gas, Dhabol, Dist.Ratnagiri Naptha, and Natural 2184 Gas 3 M/s. JSW Energy, Jaigad, Dist.Ratnagiri Coal 1200 4 M/s. Finolex Ltd; Ratnagiri Coal 43 5 M/s. Reliance Industry Ltd; Dahanu Coal 500 6 M/s.Tata Power Ltd. Trombay Coal 1630 7 M/s Tata Power at Bhira, Tal Mangaon, Dist Raigad Hydro 300 MW 8 M/s Tata Power at Bhivpuri, Tal Karjat, Dist Raigad Hydro 75 MW 9 M/s Tata Power at Khopoli Tal Khalapur Hydro 72 MW 10 M/s Uttam Galva Steel Ltd, Vill Donvat, Tal Khalapur, Dist Raigad Coal 2x30MW 11 M/s Tata Power Co Ltd at Vill Ris, Tal Khalapur, Dist Raigad ( LSFO 111.36 MW Presently Not in Operation) Captive Power Plant: 1 M/s Welspun Maxsteel Ltd, Vill Salav, Tal Murud, Dist Raigad Flue Gases 8.7 MW 2 M/s Ispat Industries Ltd, Vill Dolvi, Pen Dist Raigad Flue Gases 5.5 MW 3 Reliance Industries Ltd, Nagothane, Tal Roha Dist Raigad Flue Gases 85 MW 4 M/s Reliance Industries Ltd, MIDC Patalganga, Dist Raigad Natural/ Flue Gas 48 MW 5 M/s Hi Tech Carbon,Lohop-Talavali,Tal Khalapur Dist Raigad Waste Heat Recovery 23 MW 6 M/s Bhushan Steel Ltd, Vill Savroli, Tal Khalapur, Dist Raigad. FO 24 MW

AIR POLLUTION IN THE COUNTRY 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2038

SHRIMATI NAZNIN FARUQUE

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

(a) whether the level of the air pollution in the country is increasing day by day; (b) if so, the details thereof as on January 2012; (c) the main reasons behind the increasing pollution level in the country ;and (d) whether Government has any plan to launch least polluting vehicle in the country?

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

(a) & (b). Ambient air quality is being monitored regularly by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in association with concerned State Pollution Control Boards under National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP) in terms of Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and PM10 (particulate matter having size less than 10 micron) across the country.

Collation and processing of ambient air quality data is done in CPCB. Statistically, 104 readings are required for reporting average values for a pollutant, which takes time.

As per available data for the years 2008, 2009 and 2010, PM10 levels are exceeding the norms in 98% monitored metro cities with an increasing trend in 40% cities and decreasing in 20% cities with no trend in remaining cities. NO2 levels are exceeding in six cities (12%) and showing an increasing trend in Delhi and Kolkata. There is a mix trend in other metro cities. SO2 levels are complying with norms in all the metro cities monitored.

(c). Apart from shipping, aviation and natural sources, the main reasons of air pollution in the country are vehicular exhaust emissions, operation of gensets, resuspension of roadside dust, industrial emissions, thermal power plants, construction activities, household activities, agricultural practices, etc.

(d). As per Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises, the Central Government has undertaken the task to develop a ‘National Electric Mobility Mission Plan’ (NEMMP)-2020 to encourage reliable, affordable, electric and hybrid vehicles in the country.

APPROVAL FOR CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY RICH AREAS IN KERALA 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2039

PROF. P.J. KURIEN

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

(a) whether Government has received any project proposal from the State Government of Kerala on conservation of biodiversity rich areas of Udumbanchola Taluk in Idukki District for approval; (b) if so, the details thereof and current status of the same; and (c) the time-frame by when Government proposes to convey its approval to the said project, which has been commented as a ‘Model Conservation Programme’ by Dr. Madhav Gadgil Panel on Western Ghats Ecology?

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

(a),(b) &(c): Information is being collected and will be placed on the Table of the House.

DEVELOPMENT OF CFR ON PRIORITY BASIS 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2040

SHRI DHIRAJ PRASAD SAHU

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

(a) whether the State Forest Departments have been directed by the Union Government to implement the Forest Rights Act in right earnest; (b) whether development of Community Forest Resources (CFRs) is included in such direction; (c) if so, the details of the findings of monitoring reports of the Ministry, so far, in this regard; and (d) the details of concrete steps taken by the Union Government for development of CFR on a priority basis, and their outcomes so far?

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

(a) to (d) Yes, Sir. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, being the Nodal Ministry for implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, also known as Forest Rights Act (FRA),2006 has issued directions to the State Governments from time to time for implementation of the Act. This Act has to be implemented by State Governments in accordance with the provisions of FRA, 2006 which inter alia provides for recognition of individual as well as community forest rights besides laying down procedure for community forest resource.

CONSERVATION OF TIGERS IN SARISKA TIGER RESERVE 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2041

SHRI V.P. SINGH BADNORE

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

(a) the details of tigers relocated to Sariska Tiger Reserve from other reserves; (b) whether it is a fact that tigers and panthers are threatened by poachers and villagers in the core area of the reserve; (c) the number of tigers and panthers killed by poachers and villagers by poisoning in Sariska and Ranthambhore Tiger Reserves; and (d) the details of action taken by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the State Forest Department in this regard?

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

(a) As reported by the State, six tigers have been reintroduced in the Sariska Tiger Reserve. The details are at Annexure-I. (b) Biotic disturbance on account of cattle presence and forest resource dependency of human settlements within the core/critical tiger habitat are inimical factors for wild animals, including tiger and panther. (c) Details of tiger and panther killed by poisoning in Sariska and Ranthambhore Tiger Reserves, as reported by the State, are at Annexure-II. (d) The milestone initiatives taken by the National Tiger Conservation Authority / Government of India for protection of tigers and other wildlife are at Annexure-III.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2041 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS IN SARISKA TIGER RESERVE ON 24.04.2012.

Details of tigers reintroduced in the Sariska Tiger Reserve (as reported by the State)

S. No. Tiger Date 1. Male 28.06.2008 2. Female 04.07.2008 3. Female 25.02.2009 4. Male 20.07.2010 5. Female 28.07.2010 6. Male 23.02.2011

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2041 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS IN SARISKA TIGER RESERVE ON 24.04.2012.

Details of tiger and panther killed by poisoning in Sariska and Ranthambhore Tiger Reserves (as reported by the State)

Year Sariska Ranthambhore Tiger Panther Tiger Panther 2009-10 0 0 2 0 2010-11 1 0 0 0 2011-12 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 1 0 2 0

ANNEXURE-III REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2041 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS IN SARISKA TIGER RESERVE ON 24.04.2012.

Milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection of tigers and other wildlife

Legal steps

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

2. Enhancement of punishment in cases of offence relating to a tiger reserve or its core area.

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 / home guards, apart from workforce comprising of local people, in addition to strengthening of communication / wireless facilities.

4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from 4.09.2006, 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 6.6.2007 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 (Orissa) and Mukundara Hills (including Darrah, Jawahar Sagar and Chambal Wildlife Sanctuaries) (Rajasthan). Final approval has been accorded to Kudremukh (Karnataka) for declaring as Tiger Reserve. Besides, the States 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) Satyamangalam (Tamil Nadu), (v) Guru Ghasidas National Park (Chhattisgarh), (vi) Mhadei Sanctuary (Goa) and (vii) Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel / Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries / Varushanadu Valley (Tamil Nadu).

7. The revised Project Tiger guidelines have been issued to States for strengthening tiger conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, interalia, include funding support to States for enhanced village relocation/rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh/family to Rs. 10 lakhs/family), rehabilitation/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/assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. An area of 33472.01 sq. km. has been notified by 16 Tiger States (out of 17) as core or critical tiger habitat under section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006 (Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal). The State of Bihar has taken a decision for notifying the core or critical tiger habitat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

Financial steps

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

International Cooperation

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

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

13. 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 directions 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.

14. Based on India’s strong intervention during the 58th meeting of the Standing Committee of the CITES at Geneva from 6th to 10th July, 2009, the CITES Secretariat has issued a notification to Parties to submit reports relating to compliance of Decisions 14.69 and 14.65 within 90 days with effect from 20.10.2009 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.).

Reintroduction of Tigers

15. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers / tigresses have been done.

16. 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)

17. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of 29.2.2008, interalia, 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, the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. Rs. 93 lakhs each has been released to Corbett, Ranthambhore & Dudhwa Tiger Reserve for creation of STPF during 2008-09. Since then, the guidelines of the STPF have been revised for deploying forest personnel in place of Police as an option-II, with scope for involving local people like the Van Gujjars. During the year 2011-12, an amount of Rs. 3 crores has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for raising, arming and deploying the STPF.

18. 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

1. Implementing a tripartite MOU with tiger States, linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives.

2. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

4. 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.

5. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching ‘M-STrIPES’ for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

6. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

7. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

8. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves (e-Eye).

9. 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.

10. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

11. The allocation for the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger has been enhanced with additional new components, viz. change in funding pattern in respect of North Eastern States (90:10), raising compensation for man-animal conflict to Rs. 2 lakhs, acquisition of private land for making the core/critical tiger habitat inviolate, establishment of Tiger Safari, interpretation / awareness centres under the existing component of ‘co-existence agenda in buffer / fringe areas’ and management of such centers through the respective Panchayati Raj Institutions, and re-introduction of Cheetah.

12. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and Guwahati.

13. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi, a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity / tiger conservation.

14. Tiger Reserve level monitoring launched (Phase-IV) to keep track of tiger source populations, besides developing a National Repository of Camera Trap Photographs of Tigers (NRCTPT).

DELAY IN DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN MAHARASHTRA 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2042

SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL

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

(a) whether it is a fact that various development projects in Maharashtra have been affected due to delay in transferring forest land for the required project; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has looked into the matter; (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) No, Sir. The proposals seeking prior approval of the Central Government for diversion of forest land for non forest purposes under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and rules made thereunder are generally processed without delays. (b) to (e) Do not arise.

RESEARCH ON WILD LIFE 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2043

PROF. SAIF-UD-DIN SOZ

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

(a) whether it is a fact that research on wild life science needs permission from the Ministry; and (b) if so, whether the Minister would agree that the laws on the subject are ambiguous and needs reform; and (c) if answers to parts (a) and (b) are in the affirmative, whether Government would consider to initiate reform process in this regard?

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

(a) No, Sir. However, prior permission of the Central Government is required in case the scientific research involves hunting of any wild animal specified in Schedule-I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

(b) No such ambiguity has been brought to the notice of the Ministry.

(c)Does not arise in view of (a) and (b) above

NATIONAL RIVER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2044

SHRI PRABHAT JHA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that a National River Conservation Authority is functioning under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that not a single review meeting of National River Conservation Authority has been held for the last eight years; (d) if so, the reasons therefor; (e) if not, the details thereof; (f) whether Comptroller and Auditor General of India has recently made any comment in this regard; and (g) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (g) 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) under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister was held in June, 2003 to oversee the implementation of NRCP. The Steering Committee of the NRCA, chaired by the Secretary, Environment and Forests has been held four times subsequent to the above NRCA meeting 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 the 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.

Performance Audit of (Report 21 of 2011-12) of Comptroller & Auditor General of India, has made recommendations (Chapter 5 of the report) in the context of meetings of NRCA and monitoring of the NRCP, which include strengthening of the Water Quality Assessment Authority at the central level and Water Quality Review Committee at the level of States, involvement of citizens and other stakeholders in monitoring, strengthening of water quality monitoring network by converting monitoring locations into stations and to increase the frequency of inspections carried out by the Ministry and the States to assess the efficiency of the implementation of its programmes.

STAGNATION IN INDIAN FOREST SERVICE 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2045

SHRI DHIRAJ PRASAD SAHU.

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

(a) whether a large number of officers of Indian Forests Service are stagnating for long at lower posts in many States, including Jharkhand, adversely affecting their morale and forest conservation; (b) whether such stagnation is glaring vis-a-vis other All India Service , viz. Indian Administrative Service and Indian Police Service in those states. (c) If so, the details thereof; and (d) the details of concrete steps taken by the Ministry as cadre control authority in this regard?

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

(a) & (b) Yes, Sir.

(c) The details are at Annexure A.

(d) Ministry of Environment & Forests as Cadre Controlling Authority, for Indian Forests Service, reviews the strength and composition of each cadre at the interval of five years in consultation with the State Government in accordance with the Rule 4(2) of the Indian Forest Service (Cadre) Rules, 1966. Such review is undertaken on receipt of proposal from State Government. To address the stagnation, state cadres have been requested to submit proposal for special cadre reviews, even before 5 years.The Cadre Review of Jharkhand State, approved by DoPT in March, 2012, will address the stagnation in IFS in Jharkhand State to some extent.

Annexu re-A referred in reply to part © of Rajya Sabha Unstarr ed Questio n No. 2045 to be answere d on 24.04.20 12

STATU S OF PROM OTION S OF IFS OFFIC ERS OF DIFFERENT GRADES

NAME OF THE STATE Addl. Principal chief Chief conservator of forests Conservator of forests (Grade CADRE conservator of forests (Grade (Grade-37000-67000 Grade 37400-67000, Grade Pay-8900- 67000-79000, HAG+Scale) Pay-10000, PB-4 PB-4 Eligible Batch as per promotion 1987 1994 1998 guidelines as on 1.1.2012

Agmut 1984 1988 1995 Andhra Pradesh 1986 1991 1997 Assam & Meghalaya 1979 1986 1993 Bihar - 1986 1995 Chhattisgarh 1982 1987 1994 Gujarat 1982 1988 1995 Harayana 1983 1984 1992 Himachal Pradesh 1980 1985 1994 Jammu & Kashmir 1985 1986 1996 Jharkhand 1978 1986 1991 Karnataka 1978 1984 1990 Kerala 1981 1988 1992 Madhya Pradesh 1980 1988 1994 Maharashtra 1982 1990 1994 Manipur & Tripura 1985 1992 1996 Nagaland 1983 1989 1994 Orissa 1979 1987 1993 Punjab 1980 1987 1991 Rajasthan 1979 1986 1988 Sikkim 1985 1993 1996 Tamil Nadu 1980 1988 1992 Uttar Pradesh 1981 1989 1990 Uttarakhand 1983 1988 1996 West Bengal 1980 1990 1995

DISAPPEARANCE OF MANGROVE FORESTS IN MUMBAI 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2046

DR. YOGENDRA P. TRIVEDI

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

(a) whether Government is aware of disappearance of mangrove forests from Mumbai; (b) if not, the reasons therefor and whether builders are raising buildings in the wetland areas of coastal Mumbai after levelling the land which is damaging the environment; (c) whether Government proposes to protect the environment by taking stern action against them; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) It is not true. Mangrove forests have not disappeared from in and around Mumbai. (b) Sporadic incidences of dumping waste etc. whenever found are dealt with as per the law. (c) Yes sir. (d) Following the High Court order dt. 06/10/2005, Government of Maharashtra issued a circular dated 21/10/2005 in which destruction and felling of mangrove forest, all type of constructions, use for dumping ground, construction around c50 mtrs of mangroves, permission for development projects are prohibited and any violation shall be dealt with as per law.

STUDY ON CLIMATE CHANGE 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2047

SHRI BHARATSINH PRABHATSINH PARMAR

SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA

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

(a) whether the Ministry has communicated to the State Government of Gujarat for submission of proposals for study on probable impact of un-predictable climatic change: (b) whether any proposal has been received from the State Government of Gujarat in this regard; and (c) if so, the action taken in this regard?

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

(a) to (c) No communication has been sent by the Government of India to State Governments for submission of proposals for study on probable impact of climate change. No proposal has also been received from the Government of Gujarat in this regard. However, the Government of Gujarat has submitted proposals for undertaking research activity relating to climate change in Gujarat. The Government of Gujarat was advised to include these activities suitably in the State Action Plan on Climate Change.

GUIDELINES FOR URBAN WASTE MANAGEMENT 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2048

Dr. T.N. Seema

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

(a) whether Government has issued any guidelines for urban waste management without causing environmental pollution; (b) If so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has noticed the growing number of agitations in many rural parts of the country against providing land for waste disposal from neighbouring urban areas; (d) if so, what technological and financial measures are proposed to be taken by Government in helping the urban local bodies in effective waste management; and (e) whether there is any scheme for providing central assistance for waste management to urban local bodies?

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

(a) to (e): Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified Municipal Solid Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules, 2000 and the Plastic Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 to ensure proper collection, storage, segregation, transportation, processing and disposal of municipal solid waste including plastic waste. These Rules have provisions for plastic waste management, wherein municipal authority are responsible for setting up, operationalisation and coordination of the waste management system and for performing the associated functions such as collection, storage, segregation, transportation, processing and disposal of plastic waste. They are required to set up collection centers for plastic waste involving manufactures in line with the principle of extended producers responsibility and to ensure its channelisation to recyclers, create awareness and to ensure that open burning of plastic waste is not permitted. The landfills for municipal solid waste require environmental clearance under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 from the State Level Environment Expert Appraisal Authority. The notification prescribes undertaking of environmental impact assessment study and conduct of public hearing. Municipal Solid Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules, 2000 have, inter alia, suggested technologies for solid waste management. Ministry of Urban Development is implementing the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and the projects eligible for JNNURM assistance include environmental improvement and solid waste management.

LEVY OF LOCAL CONSERVATION CESS ON TOUR OPERATORS IN WILDLIFE AREAS 24th April, 2012

RSQ 2049

SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

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

(a) whether to address conflicting issues of wildlife versus tourism, Government has issued certain guidelines to develop and monitor the fragile ecosystem and cope with tourist pressure with emphasis on generation of local livelihood; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is proposed to involve locals in eco-tourism strategies while developing such projects; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) whether it is proposed to levy certain local conservation cess on private tour operators in these areas to garner resources?

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

(a), (b), (c), (d) & (e) A Committee has been constituted for finalizing the guidelines relating to eco-tourism in and around Protected Areas, which, interalia includes welfare of local people.

ANTI-DAM PROTESTS IN NORTH EASTERN REGION 8th May, 2012

RSQ *442

SHRI KUMAR DEEPAK DAS

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

(a) the details of power projects cleared by the Ministry during the last three years; (b) whether the Ministry is aware of the anti-dam protests in the North Eastern (NE) region; (c) whether it is a fact that the Brahmaputra region is not suitable for construction of big dams; (d) whether it is also a fact that developing countries are not indulging in construction of big dams for power generation or otherwise; and (e) if so, the details of the steps taken by Government 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. 442 due for Reply on 8.05.2012 regarding Anti-dam protests in North Eastern region

(a) A total of 165 power projects were granted environmental clearance and 143 power projects were granted forest clearance by the Ministry of Environment and Forests during last three years. The details are given at Annexure-1.

(b) Representations against construction of some hydro power projects in North East region have been received by the Government. These relate to safety of dams and downstream impacts.

(c) to (e) No conclusive study on non-suitability of construction of large dams in the Brahamputra Region has come to the notice of this Ministry. However, dams are designed taking into account the geological features and seismicity of the area as per the codal provision of Bureau of Indian Standards. Construction of large dams for production of power or otherwise is permitted after detailed and thorough investigations and review by various organizations like Planning Commission, Central Water Commission, Central Electricity Authority and the Ministry of Environment & Forests. Site-specific seismic parameters to be adopted for design of a dam are approved by the National Committee on Seismic Design Parameters (NCSDP) under the Central Water Commission (CWC). Other dam safety related issues are approved by the Dam Safety Organisation (DSO) of CWC. Technical concurrence of CEA is also required for setting up of large hydro power projects. Environmental and forest clearances are accorded by the Ministry of Environment and Forests after thorough appraisal by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) constituted under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 and Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) under Forest Conservation Act, 1980.

Annexure-1 State -Wise List of Thermal Power Projects issued Environmental Clearance during 2009-2011

S. No Subject Date of issue Andhra Pradesh 1 1980 MW Coal fired TPP of M/s Krishnapatnam energy Ltd in Nellore Distt. in Andhra 17/06/2009 Pradesh 2 Enhancement of Project Capacity from 1050 MW to 2x600 MW TPP of Udupi Power 9/9/2009 Corporation Ltd. at Padubidri near Mangalore, in North Kannada Distt. in Andhra Pradesh 3 2640 MW Bhavanapadu TPP M/s East Coast Energy Pvt. Ltd. near Kakrapalli Village in Sri 9/4/2009 Kakulam Distt. in Andhra Pradesh 4 Kakatiya Thermal Power Plant of M/s Andhra Pradesh Power Generation Corporation Ltd 5/2/2009 in Warangal Distt. in Andhra Pradesh 5 1040 MW (2x520 MW) TPP of Hinduja Power Project of M/s Hinduja National Power 4/3/2009 Corporation Ltd at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 6 2640 MW TPP M/s Nagarjuna Construction Co. Ltd. at Sompeta Srikakulam Distt. in 9/12/2009 Andhra Pradesh 7 1x300 MW coal based power project phase II of M/s Meenakshi Energy Pvt. Ltd at village 19/10/2009 Thammenapatnam Nellore Distt. in A.P. 8 1980 MW Coal based TPP of M/s Thermal Powertech (India) Ltd. at village Puinapuram in 4/11/2009 Nellore Distt. in A.P. 9 2x300 MW Merchant Power Plant of M/s Singareni Collieries Co. Ltd at village Jaipur in 28/10/2009 Adilabad Distt. in A.P. Bihar 10 2x195 mw (Stage-II) Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam 9/11/2009 Ltd. at village kanti in Muzaffarpur in Bihar. Chhattisgarh 11 1x43 MW Coal Based Power Plant (Phase-II) of M/s Arasmeta Captive Power Company 18/02/2009 Private Ltd at Gopalnagar, District Janjgir- Champa in Chhattisgarh 12 2x600 MW Singhitari TPP of M/s Athena Chhattisgarh Power Pvt. Ltd near villages 17/07/2009 Singhitarai in Janjgir-Champa in Chhattisgarh 13 540 MW Coal based TPP of M/s Vandana Vidyut Ltd in Korba Distt. in Chhattisgarh 9/3/2009 Goa 14 Sancole, Zuarinagar of M/s Reliance Infrastructure Limited 8/5/2009 Gujarat 15 7.5 MW co-generation captive power plant with waste heat recovery system of M/s Alok 12/8/2009 Industries Limited, in Valsad in Gujarat 16 1200 MW Coal based Power Project of M/s. Essar Power Gujarat Limited near village Nana 21/07/2009 Mandha in Jamnagar Distt. in Gujarat Jharkhand 17 270 MW TPP of M/s Adhunik Power Resources Ltd. at Vill. Padampur, Saraikela Kharswan 31/08/2009 in Jharkhand 18 2000 MW Coal based STPP of M/s Essar Power Jharkhand Limited near Chandwa, in 8/5/2009 Latehar Distt. in Jharkhand 19 2000 MW Coal based Power Project of M/s Essar Power Jharkhand Ltd at Latehar in 8/5/2009 Jharkhand Karnataka 20 2X800 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Karnataka Power Corporation Ltd. at 17/11/2009 Yermarus near Vadloor Raichur Distt. in Karnataka 21 1x 600 MW TPP at Bellary TPS Unit-3 of M/s KPCL at Bellary 17/11/2009 In Karnataka Madhya Pradesh

22 2x250 MW Extension Units 10-11 of M/s M.P. Power Generation Co. Ltd. at Satpura TPS 27/02/2009 in Betul Distt., in M.P 23 2x500 MW Vindhyachal Super Thermal Power Project, Stage-IV of M/s National Thermal 5/2/2009 Power Corporation Ltd. in Singrauli Distt. in M.P. 24 2x500 MW TPP of M/s Jaiprakash Associates at Nigri in 26/08/2009 Sidhi Distt. in M.P. Maharashtra 25 405 MW (270 MW +135 MW) TPP of M/s Patni Energy Pvt. Ltd phase-II at Alibag in 31/08/2009 Raigad Distt. in Maharashtra 26 2x500 MW Chandrapur STPP of M/s Mahagenco in Chandrapur Disst. in Maharashtra. 30/01/2009 27 1320 MW (2x660 MW) TPP of M/s Sophia Power Ltd. at Additional Amaravati Industrial 27/02/2009 Area Amravati Distt. In Maharashtra 28 1600 MW Coal based power project of M/s Tata Power Co. Ltd. at Dherand/Shahpur in 9/12/2009 Raigad in Maharashtra 29 2x300 MW Coal based Thermal Power Project of M/s Dhariwal Infrastructure (P) Ltd in 4/12/2009 MIDC industrial area at village Tadali in Chandrapur Distt. in Maharashtra Orissa 30 4x350 MW Coal based Power Plant of M/s KVK Nilanchal Power Pvt. Ltd.in Cuttack Distt. 18/02/2009 in Orissa 31 2x350 MW Coal Based Thermal Power plant of M/s Ind-Barath Energy Utkal) Ltd. at 30/11/2009 Shajbahal in Jharsuguda in Orissa 32 2640 MW Coal based PP of M/s Lanco Babandh Power Pvt. Ltd. at Dhenkanal in Orissa 17/02/2009 Rajasthan 33 2x600 MW kalisindh Coal Based TPP of M/s RRVUNL at Kalisindh, in Jhalawar Distt. in 26/02/2009 Rajasthan 34 7.5 MW Biomass based Power Project of M/s Sanjog Sugars & Eco Power Pvt. Ltd. at Vill. 16/07/2009 Sangaria in Hanumangarh Distt. in Rajasthan 35 10 MW Biomass Based Power Plant of M/s Sathyam Power Pvt. Ltd at Vill. Khatoli in Kota 3/11/2009 Distt. in Rajasthan Tamilnadu 36 1200 MW Imported coal based TPP of M/s North Chennai Power Co. Ltd. at Kattupalli & 31/08/2009 kalani Villages in Thiruvallur Distt. in Tamilnadu 37 1x600 MW Ennore TPS of M/s TNEB at vill. Ernavur in Thiruvallur Distt. in Tamilnadu 3/6/2009 38 2140 MW Coal based merchant TPP of M/s Tridem Port and Power Co. Ltd. at village 9/12/2009 Keelapidagai in Distt. in Tamilnadu Uttar Pradesh 39 Rihand Super Thermal Power Project Stage-III (2x500 MW) of M/s NTPC Ltd. in 5/2/2009 Sonebhadra Distt. in Uttar Pradesh 40 3x660 MW TPP of M/s Prayagraj Power Generation Company Ltd. at Bara in Allahabad 8/9/2009 Distt. in Uttar Pradesh. 41 2x660 MW TPP of M/s Sangam Power Gen. Co. Ltd. at Karchhana in Allahabad Distt. in 30/10/2009 Uttar Pradesh 42 2x300 MW Thermal Power Project Stage-II of M/s Reliance Power Ltd.Expansion at village 20/07/2009 Chaudhera, in Shahajahanpur Distt. in Uttar Pradesh.

State wise list of Thermal Power Project issued Environmental clearance in 2010

S. No. Subject Date of issue Andhra Pradesh 1 800 MW gas based Combined Cycle PP of M/s Vemagiri Power Genaration Ltd.in Vemagiri 28/01/2010 in East Godavari Distt. in Andhra Pradesh 2 2X660 MW Super Critical Imported Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Nelcast Energy 30/09/2010 Corporation Ltd. at villages Painampuram & Sivarampuram in Muthukur Mandal in Andhra Pradesh 3 4x660 MW Komarda TPP of M/s Alfa Infraprop Pvt. Ltd. in Vizianagaram Distt. in Andhra 15/03/2010 Pradesh 4 3x350 MW Gas Based CCPP of M/s Gautami Power (Samalkot) Pvt. Ltd. at IDA, Sawalkot 21/04/2010 in Andhra Pradesh 5 400 MW Gas based CCPP, St-II extn project of M/s GVK Power (Jegurupadu) Private Ltd. 20/05/2010 at Jegurupadu in East Godavari Distt. in Andhra Pradesh 6 1200 MW gas based Project expansion of M/s Reliance Infrastructure Ltd at Samalkot Power 28/05/2010 Station (SPS) in IDA Peddappuram Industrial Estate of East Godavari Distt. in Andhra Pradesh 7 1350 MW Natural Gas Based CCPP of M/s Spectrum Power Generation Ltd.at Kakinada in 1/6/2010 Andhra Pradesh 8 Rayalaseema TPP Stage-IV (1 x 600 MW) of M/s Andhra Pradesh Power Generation 21/10/2010 Corporation Ltd. near V. V. Reddy Nagar, Yerraguntla Mandal in Kadapa (A.P.) 9 2 x 660 MW PP in Villages of M/s Singareni Collieries Company Ltd. at Jaipur Mandal in 27/12/2010 Adilabad Distt in Andhra Pradesh Bihar 10 3x660 MW Nabinagar Super TPP of M/s Nabinagar Power Generation Co-Pvt. Ltd. a New 27/12/2010 Nabinagar in District, Aurangabad, Bihar Chhattisgarh 11 2x600 MW Coal Based TPP of M/s Athena Chhattisgarh Power Pvt. Ltd. at villages

Singhitarai, Benipali, Odekera & Nimohi, in Chattisgarh 12 3x350 MW Coal Based TPP of M/s Dheeru Powergen Pvt Ltd. at village Khatgora in Korba 18/01/2010 Distt. in Chattisgarh 13 2x300 MW Coal based TPP of M/s Korba West Power Co. Ltd. in Bade Bhandar in Raigarh 20/05/2010 in Chhattishgarh 14 660 MW Amarkantak TPP Expansion (Unit IV) of M/s Lanco Amarkantak Power Pvt. Ltd. 26/05/2010 near Patadi in Korba Distt. in Chhattisgarh 15 1320 MW Coal based TPP of M/s DB Power Ltd. in Janjgir-Champa in Chhattisgarh 16/09/2010 16 4x300 Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s SKS Power Generation, Chhattisgarh Ltd. at 5/10/2010 Raigarh Distt. in Chhattisgarh 17 2x150 (Phase-II) Captive Power Plant based of M/s Jindal Steel & Power Ltd. at 9/11/2010 Dongamahua, Raigarh Distt in Chhattisgarh Gujarat 18 2x800 MW TPP near Pipavav Port of M/s Videocon Industries Ltd. at Amreli Distt. in 4/2/2010 Gujarat 19 2X250 MW Lignite Based TPP of M/s Bhavnagar Energy Company Ltd. at Padva in 10/2/2010 Bhavnagar in Gujarat. 20 Expansion of 3x660 MW Coal based TPP of M/s Adani Power Ltd. at Tunda, in Kuchchh 20/05/2010 Distt., in Gujarat. 21 Expansion of existing (3x382.5 MW) Gas based TPP of M/s Torrent Power Ltd.by addition 9/9/2010 of 1x382.5 MW Gas based TPP at Vill- Akhakhol, Taluka Kamrej, in Surat, Gujarat 22 Expansion of 1x400 MW Gas Based PP by addition of 1x400 MW Gas Based Unit of M/s 12/10/2010 Torrent Power Ltd. at Dahej SEZ, District: Bharuch, Gujarat 23 1x20 MW PP of M/s Divine Vidyut Ltd. at Vill. Kaushalgarh in Gujarat 18/10/2010 Jharkhand 24 540 MW (2x270 MW) TPP of M/s Corporate Power Ltd. at Village Bana, in Latehar Distt. 11/11/2010 in Jharkhand Karnataka 25 420MW Natural gas based TPP of M/s Surana Power Ltd. at KIADB industrial area in 9/9/2010 Raichur Distt. in Karnataka 26 Co-Gen Power Plant 15 MW to Additional 15 MW of M/s Venkateshwara Power Project 9/9/2010 Ltd. at Sy Nos.84 A/p Bedkihal Chikodi Taluka, in District: Belgaum, Karnataka 27 Expension of present Co-Gen Power Plant of 40 MW to 62 MW Additional 22 MW Co-Gen 27/12/2010 Power Plant Unit of M/s Nirani Sugars Ltd. at Sy Nos 166 , Kulali Cross, Jamakhandi road, Mudhol in District: Bagalkot in Karnataka Madhya Pradesh 28 2x660 MW TPP and Cement Grinding Unit of 2.0 TPA of M/s Jaiprakash Power Ventures 25/02/2010 Ltd. at Nigri in Singrauli in M.P 29 2x300 MW Coal based TPP of M/s Jhabua Power Ltd. at Barela Gorakhpur in Seoi in M.P 17/02/2010 30 3960 MW PP of M/s Chitrangi Power Pv t. Ltd. at Chitrangi Singrauli in M.P 28/05/2010 31 1200 MW TPP of M/s Moserbaer Ltd. at Annupur in M.P 28/05/2010 32 1320 MW (2x660 MW) Coal Based TPP of M/s DB Power, Madhya Pradesh Ltd. at Deosar, 9/9/2010 District: Singrauli in M.P Maharashtra 33 Expansion from 1320 MW to 3300 MW by addition of 3x660 MW Coal Based Thermal 22/04/2010 Power Plant of M/s Adani Power Maharashtra Pvt.Ltd in MIDC Industrial Area at village Tiroda in Gonida in Maharastra 34 1X300 MW Phase-2 TPP of M/s Emco Energy Ltd. in Warora, in Chandrapur in Maharastra 25/05/2010 35 2x800 MW Koradi TPS expansion of M/s MAHAGENCO at Nagpur in Maharashtra 4/1/2010 36 2x660 MW Coal based TPP of M/s India bulls Realtech Ltd. at Sinnar in District: Nasik in 28/07/10 Maharashtra 37 2x660 MW Solapur Super TPP M/s NTPC Limited. at Vill-Hotgi in District- Solapur, 27/12/2010 Maharashtra 38 2 x 660 Stage-II Mouda Super Thermal Power Project of M/s NTPC Ltd. in District : 30/12/2010 Nagpur, Maharashtra Orissa 39 Expansion of existing Coal based Thermal Power Plant by addition of 2x660 MW (Unit 3& 4/2/2010 4) of /s Orissa Power Generation Corporation Ltd.at village Banaharpalli. in Jharsuguda in Orissa 40 2x67.5 MW Coal based Captive Thermal Power Plant of M/s Bhubaneshwar Power Pvt. 14/05/2010 Ltd.at Anantpur in Cuttack Distt. in Orrisa 41 2x660 MW Super Critical Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Lanco Babandh Power 17/02/2010 Private Ltd. near Khurunti in District Dhenkanal in Orissa 42 2x525 MW Coal based Thermal Power Plant of : M/s Monnet Power Company Ltd at 29/06/2010 Village Malibrahmani in Chandipada Block in District Angul in Orrisa 43 20 MW Biomass based power plant of M/s Shalivahana Green Energy Ltd. at Nimidha 21/10/10 Village District Dhenkanal, Orissa Rajasthan 44 2x150 MW TPP of M/s Shree Cement Ltd. near village-Andheri Deori, Tehsil Masuda 30/11/2010 District Ajmer, Rajasthan Tamilnadu 45 2x500 MW TPP of M/s Patel Power Ltd. , in Nagapattianam Distt. in Tamilnadu 26/03/2010 46 4000 MW UMPP Coal based TPP captive Port and Desalination Plant of M/s IL & FS Ltd. 31/05/2010 near Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu 47 1X660 MW Super Critical Coal Thermal Power Plant (TPP) of M/s Ind-Barath Power 12/7/2010

(Madras) Ltd. in District: Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu 48 2x500 MW Thermal Power Station of : M/s Neyveli Lignite Corporation Ltd. at Neyveli in 21/10/10 District: Cuddolore in Tamilnadu 49 2x660 MW TPP of M/s NSL Nagapatnam Power and Infratech Pvt. Ltd. at Talachanakadu 13/10/10 Village, Tarangambaddi Taluk in District: Nagapatnam in Tamilnadu 50 1x525 MW imported coal based TPP Stage-IV of M/s Spic Electric Power Corporation Pvt. 3/11/2010 Ltd. at Tuticorin District: Tuticorin in Tamilnadu

List of River Valley & Hydroelectric Power Projects granted Environmental Clearance during last 3 years (2009- 2011)

Date of EC S.No. Year 2009 issued

Rupsiabagar Khasiabara HEP Project 261 MW ( 3 x 87 MW) in District: Pithorgarh, 1 26/3/2009 Uttarakhand M/s. National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd. Sainj HEP Project (100 MW) in District: Kullu, Himachal Pradesh by M/s. Himachal 2 4/5/2009 Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd. Rangit-II HEP Project (66 MW) in District: West Sikkim by M/s. Sikkim Hydro Power 3 10/6/2009 Ventures Ltd. Krishna Delta Modernization Project in District: Krishna, Andhra Pradesh by M/s.CAD 4 1/7/2009 Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh Dadupur - Nalvi Irrigation Project in District : Ambala, Yamuna Nagar and Kurukshetra, 5 10/7/2009 Haryana by M/s. Haryana Irrigation Department Sri Rameshwara Lift Irrigation Scheme in District : Belgaum, Karnataka by M/s. Karnataka 6 10/7/2009 Neeravari Nigam Ltd. 7 Arjun Sahayak Pariyojna in District : Mahoba, Uttar Pradesh by M/s. Govt. of Uttar Padesh 09/09/2009 8 Name: Upper Narmada Irrigation Project District : Dindari, Madhya Pradesh by M/s. NVDA 10/09/2009 Renuka Dam Project in District : Sirmour 9 23/10/2009 Himachal Pradesh by M/s. Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd. Year 2010 Halon Irrigation Project in District: Mandla & Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh by M/s. Narmada 1 4/01/2010 Valley Development Authority Upper Bhadra Lift Irrigation Project in District: Chikmagalur, Karnataka by M/s. Karnataka 2 5/01/2010 Neeravari Nigam Ltd. Gongri Hydroelectric Project (130 MW) in District: West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh by 3 12.2.2010 M/s. Dirang Energy Private Limited Demwe Lower HEP Project (1750 MW) in District: Lohit, Arunachal Pradesh by M/s. 4 12.2.2010 Athena Energy Ventures Pvt. Ltd. Bodwad Parisar Sinchan Yojna in District: Jalgaon & Buldana by M/s. Tapi Irrigation 5 19/4/2010 Development Corporation Integrated Kashang HEP (243 MW) Project in District: Kinnaur by M/s. Himachal Pradesh 6 16/4/2010 Power Corporation Ltd. Tashiding Hydroelectric Project (97 MW) District:West Sikkim by M/s. Shiga Energy 7 30.7.2010 Private Limited Badaun Major Irrigation Project District: Bareily & Badaun, Uttar Pradesh by M/s. Govt. of 8 30.7.2010 Uttar Pradesh Wakurde Lift Irrigation Scheme in District: Sangli, Maharashtra by M/s. Maharashtra 9 19.8.2010 Krishna Development Corporation Year 2011 Nafra HEP (96 MW) project in District: West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh by M/s. SEW 1 17.1.2011 Nafra Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd. 2 Bajoli Holi HEP(180MW) in District: Chamba, Himachal Pradesh by M/s. GMR Energy Ltd 24.1.2011 Khuitam HEP (66 MW) project in District: West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh by M/s. 3 28.1.2011 Adishankar Power Pvt. Ltd Dhapewada Lift Irrigation Project in District Gondia, Maharashtra by M/s. Vidarbha 4 9.3.2011 Irrigation Development Corporation, Government of Maharashtra Chanju-I HEP Project ( 36 MW) in District: Chamba of Himachal Pradesh by M/s. Bajrang 5 20.4.2011 Hydro Ltd Shongtong-Karcham HEP Project (402 MW) 6 19.5.2011 in District: Kinnaur of Himachal Pradesh by M/s. Hmachal Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd Tawang HEP Project Stage-I(600 MW) in District: Tawang of Arunachal Pradesh by M/s. 7 10.6.2011 NHPC Ltd Tawang HEP Project Stage-II (800 MW) in District: Tawang of Arunachal Pradesh by M/s. 8 10.6.2011 NHPC Ltd Tato-II HEP Project (700 MW) in District: West Siang of Arunachal Pradesh by M/s Tato 9 27.6.2011 Hydro Power Pvt. Ltd. Ting Ting HEP (99 MW) Project in West Sikkim District, Sikkim by M/s TT Energy Pvt. 10 4.7.2011 Ltd Kutehr HEP Project (240 MW) in District Chamba of Himachal Pradesh by M/s. M/s. JSW 11 4.7.2011 Energy Ltd Parwan Major Irrigation-cum-Drinking Water Project in District Jhalawar of Rajasthan by 12 30.9.2011 M/s. Water Resources, Government of Rajasthan

List of Nuclear Power Projects Cleared during 2009 to 2011

S.No. Project Details Date of Clearance Maharashtra 1 Jaitapur Nuclear Power Park (6x1650 MW) at village Madban, Taluka Rajapur, District 26.11.2010 Ratnagiri, Maharashtra Company: M/s Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. Tamilnadu 2 Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project Expansion Units 5 & 6 (2x1000 MW) at Kudankulam, 31.12.2009 Tamilnadu Company: M/s Nuclear Power Corporation Ltd.

State-wise Details of Proposals Seeking Forest Clearance to Thermal Power Projects Cleared During the Last Three Years Sr.No. State and Name of Proposal Remarks Chhattishgarh 1 Diversion Of 114.355 Ha Of Revenue Forest Land For Construction 2x500 Mw Marwa- In-Principle Tendubhatta Thermal Power Project (Mtpp) At Tendubhatta In Favour Of M/S Chhattsgarh Rajya Vidut Mandal. (Crvm) In Janjgir-Champa Forest Division. 2 Diversion Of Additional 0.24 Ha Of Forest Land (Already Diverted 85.514) For In-Principle Construction Of Pump House And Pipeline In Favour Of M/S National Thermal Power Corporation (Ntpc). Gujarat 3 Ash Dyke Pond & Hot Water Channel By Gujarat Electricity Board Approved 4 Diversion Of Forest Land For Section-4 Forest Land For 4000 Mw Mundra Ultra Mega Approved Power Project (Umpp) Jharkhand 5 Diversion Of 494.11 Ha Of Forest Land (Originally Submitted For 622.02 Ha) For Approved Construction Of 4000 Mw Tilaiya Ultra Mega Power Project (Umpp) In Favour Of M/S Jharkhand Integrated Power Limited. 6 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of North Karanpura Super Thermal Power In-Principle Station In Favour Of Ntpc Ltd. Madhya Pradesh 7 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Naveen Ash Band For Satpura Thermal Approved Power Station In Favour Of M/S Madhya Pradesh Power Generating Company Limited 8 Diversion Of 66.294 Ha Of Revenue Forest Land For Construction Of Thermal Power In-Principle Project In Favour Of M/S S.J.K. Powergen Ltd. In District Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh. Maharashtra 9 Diversion Of Forest Land For Establishment Of Adani Thermal Power Project For 1980 In-Principle Mw. Coal Based Thermal Power Plan At Midc Tiroda

Details of Hydel Power Projects For Which Approval Under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 Has Been Accorded During the Last Three Years

S. No. State and Name of Proposal Remarks Andhra Pradesh 1 Diversion Of Forest Land For Indira Sagar (Polavaram Project) Across , In Approved Khammam, Rajahmundry And Visakhapatnam Forest Circles Arunachal Pradesh 2 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Pare Hydro Electric Project (100 Mw Over Approved Dikrang River) By Neepco Ltd 3 Diversion Of 89.5271 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of Nyamjangchhu Hep (780 In-Principle Mw) In Tawang District Of Arunachal Pradesh By M/S Njc Hydropower Limited 4 Diversion Of 78.45 Ha Forest Land For Implementation Of Nafra Hydro Electric Project (96 In-Principle Mw) In West Kameng District Of Arunachal Pradesh By M/S Sew Nafra Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd. 5 Diversion Of 1415.92 Ha (1408.30 Ha Surface Land + 7.62 Ha Underground Land) Of In-Principle Forest Land For Construction Of Demwe Lower Hydro Electric Project (1750 Mw) In Favour Of M/S Athena Demwe Power Private Limited. Chhattishgarh 6 Construction Of Small Hydro Electric In Favour Of M/S. Savri Power Pvt Ltd Approved 7 Establishment Of 24.75 Megawatt Mandar-I Laghu Viduyat (Hydro Electric) Project In Approved Favour Of Managing Director, Chhattisgarh Energy Consortium (India) Pvt. Ltd., Hydrabad 8 Construction Of Small Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of M/S. Venika Hydro Project Pvt Approved Ltd 9 Construction Of Hydro Power Project In Village-Doomatoli Amd Cjatakpur In Favour Of Approved Guloo Hydro Power Project Pvt. Ltd Haryana 10 Const. Of P&R Goripur Hydro Power On Wjc Rd 95-96 R/S At Village Goripur Approved 11 Setting Up Of Mini Hep At Mussapur On Augmentation Canal Allotted To Puri Oil Mill Approved Ltd., At Village Nissing

12 Const. Of Road & Bridge For Public Use And For 6 Mw Small Hep M/S Bhoruka Power Approved Corporation Ltd. At Vilalge Balachaur 13 Setting Up Mini Hydel Plant At Khukhani Near Vilalge Thaska On Augmentation Canal Approved Rd19.916 Km. Allotted To Puri Oil Mill Ltd. Himachal Pradesh 14 Const. Of 2.4 Mw Kartaul Small Hydro Electric Project, In Favour Of M/S Awadh Bihari Approved Giri, Delhi,. 15 Const. Of 3.00 Mw Sal-Ii In Favour Of M/S Himgiri Infrastructure Development (P) At Approved Sahoo Hep 16 Const. Of 3.00 Mw Pangi Hep In F/O M/S Sai Engineering Foundation, New Approved 17 Construction Of 36 Mw Chanju-I He Project In Favour Of M/S Indo Arya Central Transport Approved Ltd., New Shimla 18 Const. Of 5 Mw Mini Hep Within The Jurisdisction Of Ft. Divn. In F/O M/S Sai Approved Engineering Foundation, Sai Bhawan, Sector-4, New Shimla 19 Const. Of 25 Mw Lambadug Hydro Electric Project & 11.3974 Ha Of Forest Land For Approved Construction Of 132 Kv Tr. Line From Lamdug Project To Hpseb Sub Station At Bassi In F/O M/S Ku Hydro Power Pvt. Ltd. Dharamshala Under Hamirpur Wl Divn & Jogindernagar Ft. Divn 20 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Kut-I Small Hydro Electtic Project In Favour Of M/Syadapati Agro Approved Products (P)Ltd. Hyderabad,Forest Division Rampur. 21 Const. Of 4.5 Mw Rajpur Hydro Electric Project On Nogli Khad At Village Rajpur, Ft. Approved Divn. Rampur In F/O M/S Dli Power Pvt. Ltd., House No. 16, Hp Officer Colony (West End), Panthaghati, Shimla-9 22 Const. Of 1.5 Mw Chatarkhand Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Chatarkhand Hydro Imperial Approved Project 23 44.00 Mw Tangnu Romai-I Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of M/S Tangnu Romai Power Approved Generation (P) Ltd. Under Rampur Ft. Divn 24 Construction Of 2.00mw Diklery Small Hep Approved 25 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Gramang Hydro Electric Project Within Kullu Ft. Divn. In F/O M/S Approved Shobla Hydro Power Private Limited, Kullu 26 Const. Of 8.00 Mw Kurmi Hydro Electric Project In F/O M/S Kurmi Energy (P) Ltd. Sco Approved 140-141, Sector 34-A, Chandigarh Under Rampur Forest Divn 27 Permission For 7.00 Mw Holi, Hep In Favour Of Om Energy Generation Pvt. Ltd., At Approved Village Gawala, Po Kuleth, Sub Tehsil Holi 28 Const. Of 2.00 Mw Hamal Small Hydro Electric Project, In Favour Of M/S Hamal Hydel Approved Ltd., Panchkula. 29 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Ani (Behna) Hep In Favour Of M/S Growel Energy Company Ltd. Approved Mumbai 30 Const. Of 3.00 Mw Shaung Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Darjeeling Power Ltd. Approved 31 Const. Of 3.00 Mw Behna-I Hep In Favour Of M/S Himandri Hydro Power Project Pvt,. Approved Ltd., 32 Const. Of 2.4 Mw Ubharah Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Shakti Hep Company (P) Ltd. Approved New Delhi 33 Diversion Of Forest Land For The Construction Of 100 Mw Sainj Hydro Electric Project In Approved Favour Of H.P. Power Corporation Ltd., (Hpseb) 34 Const. Of 24.00 Mw Hep In Favour Of Kut Energy Private Limited Approved 35 Const. Of 2 X 2250 Kw Palor - Ii Small Hydro Power Project Approved 36 Const. Of 6 Mw Tangnu Romai-Ii Hep In Favour Of Tangu Romai Power Generation Ltd. Approved Delhi 37 Const. Of 3.6 Mw Gaj-Garju Stage-I Small Hep M/S Kangra Hydero Electrict Venture Pvt. Approved Ltd., Ranital 38 Const. Of 24.00 Mw Baragaon Hydro Electric Project Within Jursidiction Of Kullu Ft. Divn. Approved In F/O M/S Kanchanjunga Power Co. (Pvt) Ltd., Noida (Up) 39 Const. Of 5 Mw Seehi-Ii Small Hep In F/O M/S Spaceage Switchgears Ltd. Under Rampur Approved Ft. Divn. 40 Const. Of 4 Mw Balh Padhar Small Hep Within Jurisdiction Of Mandi & Jogindernagar Ft. Approved Divn. In F/O M/S Usp Hydro Energy Ltd. 41 Construction Of 8.00 Mw Raura Hep In Favour Of Dli Power (India) Pvt. Ltd., Approved 42 Const. Of 4.8 Mw Mauni-Ii Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Ind-Barath Energies Limited At Approved Village Kharota, 43 Const. Of 9.00 Mw Rala Small Hep In Faovur Of M/S Taranda Hydro Power Pvt. Ltd., Approved 44 Const. Of Lower Uhc Hep In Favour Of M/S Trident Power Systems Ltd., In-Principle 45 Const. Of 24.60 Mw Wanger Homte Hep In Favour Of Panchhor Hydro Power Ltd., In-Principle 46 Diversion Of 0.3472 Ha Of Additional Forest Land In Favour Of Himachal Pradesh Power In-Principle Corporation Limited For The Construction Of Additional Adit-1 And Dit-2 In Respect Of 111 Mw Sawra Kuddu He Project. 47 Diversion Of 63.5015 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 402 Mw Shongtong-Karcham In-Principle Hep With The Jurisdiction Of Kinnaur Forest Division In Favour Of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited. 48 Diversion Of 57.7365 Ha Of Forest Land In Favour Of M/S Sjvn (A Joint Vernture Of In-Principle Government Of India And Govt. Of Hp) For The Construction Of 66.00 Mw Dhaula Sidh Hep, Within The Juridiction Of Palampu, Hamirpur And Dehra Forest Divisions, Distt. Kangra & Hamirpur, Hp. 49 1.20 Mw Salanti Small Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of M/S Sturdy Industries Ltd., In-Principle Parwanoo Under Rohru F.Divn. 50 Const. Of 24.00mw Selti-Masrang Hep In Favour Of Ramesh Hep In-Principle

51 Const. Of 12 Mw Jogani Hep Within Jurisdiction Of Rampur Ft. Divn. In F/O M/S Gangdari In-Principle Hydro Electric Power P. Ltd., Gamba House, South End, Lane Iv, Ph.1, New Shimla 52 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Jari Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Wil Power Proejcts, Near Himurja In-Principle Office, Dhalpur 53 4.5 Mw Siul Baroti Small Hydroelectric Project In F/O M/S Siul Baroti Power Ltd., Churah In-Principle Ft. Divn. 54 Const. Of 4.00 Mw Jirah Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Kapil Mohan Associates In-Principle 55 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Sumez Hep In-Principle 56 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Kuwarsi Hep In Favour Of M/S V.B. Hydro Project Ltd., In-Principle 57 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Luni -Ii Hep In Favour Of M/S Sri Sai Krishna Hydro Energies Pvt. In-Principle 58 Diversion Of 17.6857 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 130 Mw Integrated Kashang - In-Principle Stage Ii & Iii Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of M/S Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited 59 Diversion Of 6.7190 Ha Of Additional Forest Land (3.6502 Ha Surface Rights And 3.0688 In-Principle Ha Underground Area) For Construction Of Road To Surge Shaft, Flushing Tunnel And Underground Access To Baspa Hep Power House From Karcham Bridge In Favour Of M/S. Jaypee Karcham Hydro Corporation Limited. 60 Const. Of 5 Mw Baner Sangam Small Hep Within Jurisdiction Of Dharamshala & Dehra Ft. In-Principle Divns In F/O M/S Yogindera Powers Ltd. 61 Const. Of 2.00 Mw Manihar Small Hep In Faovur Of M/S Bhuvneshwari Enterprises In-Principle Shishamati Road, Dhalpur, 62 Diversion Of 75.304 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction 0f 180 Mw Bajoli - Holi Hydro In-Principle Electric Project In Favour Of Gmr Bajoli Holi Hydor Power Pvt. Ltd. In Bhermour Forest Division In Chamba Distt. Of Himachal Pradesh. 63 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Balargha Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Sandhya Hep Balarha Pvt. Ltd., In-Principle 64 Const. Of 70.00 Mw Dhamwari Sunda Hep In Favour Of M/S Dhamwari Power Company In-Principle Private Ltd., Up 6 Nos. Of Tranmission Poles Beyond Pole No. 25 To Pole No. 31 Upto Hpseb Control Sub Statation At Jhahari, In Favour Of Dli Power (India) Ltd., 65 Const. Of 9 Mw Sarsadi-Ii Small Hep In Favour Of Aroma Colonizers Pvt. Ltd.,Vpo In-Principle Shamshi 66 Diversion Of 61.4083 Ha Of Forest Land Being Diverted/ Transferred In Favour Of M/S In-Principle Jsw Energy Ltd. For The Construction Of 240 Mw Kuther Hydroelectric Project Within The Jurisdiction Of Bharmour Forest Division, Distt. Chamba, H.P. 67 Const. Of Shalvi (4.75 Mw) In Favouar Of Bla Shalvi Hep In Chopal In-Principle 68 Diversion Of 4.7641 Of Forest Land In Favour Of M/S Jawala Hydro Power Pvt. Ltd, For In-Principle The Construction Of 5.00 Mw Malana Top Small Hydro Electric Project Within The Jurisdiction Of Parbati Forest Division And Distt. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. 69 Const. Of 4.8 Mw Aleo -Ii Shep In Favour Of M/S Aleo Manali Hep In-Principle 70 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Suil-Ii Small Hep In Favour Of Kav Hydro Private Ltd., In-Principle 71 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Nanti Small Hydro Electric Project, In Favour Of M/S Suryakantha In-Principle Poltry's Pvt. Ltd., Prathipedu, A.P. 72 Const. Of 9.6 Mw Jeori Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Technology House (India) Pvt. Ltd., In-Principle 73 Const. Of 12 Mw Upper Nanti Hep Within Jurisdiction Of Rampur Ft. Divn. In F/O M/S In-Principle Nanti Hydro Electric Pvt. Ltd., New Shimla 74 Const. Of 20 Mw Roura -Ii Shep In Favour Of M/S Roura Non Conventional Energey Pvt. In-Principle Ltd., Chandigarh 75 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Swad Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Micro Hep New Road Hamirpur In-Principle 76 Const. Of 1.5 Mw Surah Small Hep In Favour Of M/S. Micro Hydro Electric Power In-Principle Generation Ltd., 77 Const.Of 3.5 Mw Chachiot Hep In Favour Of M/S Shakti Hydro Electric Company Pvt. In-Principle Ltd., Jharkhand 78 Diversion Of 4.587 Ha Of Forest Land For Establishment Of Sadaniphal Hydro-Electric In-Principle Project By Bihar State Electricity Board. Karnataka 79 Diversion Of 4.20 Ha. Of Forest Land In Kageneri & Kanchanakumari Rf In Sy.No.1 & 16 Approved Of Yadakumari (V), Sakaleshpura (T) For Establishment Of 19 Mw Yadakumari Mini Hydel Project In Favour Of M/S Maruthi Power-Gen (India) Pvt. Ltd., B’lore. 80 Diversion Of 4.18 Ha. Of Forest Land In Kageneri & Kanchanakumari Rf In Sy.No.1 & 16 Approved Of Yadakumari (V), Sakaleshpura (T) For Establishment Of 18.90 Mw Hongadahalla Mini Hydel Project In Favour Of M/S Maruthi Power-Gen (India) Pvt. Ltd. 81 Diversion Of 2.56 Ha. Of Deemed Forest Land For Development Of 15 Mw Mini Hydel Approved Scheme In Sy.No.66 Of Jarkala Village, Karkala Taluk Across Yennehole Stream In Udupi District In Favour Of M/S Gvp Infra Projects Private Limited, Bangalore. Kerala 82 Diversion Of Fl For Mankulam Hep (40 Mw), Malayattoor Rf, Munnar Forest Division In Approved F/O Kseb. 83 Diversion Of 6.4795 Ha. Of Fl For The Implementation Of Perunthenaruvi Small Hep By Approved Kseb, Pathanamthitta Distt. Manipur 84 Diversion Of 223.50 Ha Of Forest Land For Loktak Downstream Hydro-Electric Project. In-Principle Punjab 85 Setting Up A Mini Hydel Project On Madhopur Beas Link Canal Ubdc System From R.D. Approved 19454 To 20182 L/S Vill. Gandlan Lahrri 86 Setting Up Of Mini Hydel Project On Madhopur Beas Link Canal Ubdc System From R.D. Approved Kanda At 13960 To 14688 L/S, Vill. Kale Chak And Khanpur

87 Micro Project Ralla On Kotla Branch Canal At R.D. 268000-269000 R/S Approved 88 Construction Of Hep Project On Bathinda Branch Canal Rd-389-91, L/S At Village Bibwala In-Principle 89 Bhikha Bhai Sagwada Irrigation Approved Sikkim 90 Proposal For Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Rongni Chhu Hep On River Approved Rongni Chhu 91 Proposal For Diversion Of 5.431 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 66 Mw Rangit-Ii Approved Hydro Electric Project In West District Of Sikkim Hydro Electric Ventures Limited (Revised Proposal). 92 Construction Of 97 Mw Tashiding Hydroelectric Project By M/S Shiga Pvt. Ltd. Approved Uttar Pradesh 93 400 Kv Dc Kanpur-Bullabhgarh Paresun Line & 21 Tree Failing In Etwa Approved Uttarakhand 94 Singoli Bhatwarihydel Project Approved 95 Kolinda Talla Tok Gaunichira Hydel Project In Thalisain Approved 96 Myudar Ganga Mini Hydel Project Approved 97 Sobla -I Mini Hydel Project Approved 98 Kaldigad Mini Hydel Project Approved 99 Lagrasu Mini Hydle Electrical Project 3 Mw (7.0249 Ha.) Approved 100 Asi Ganga Mini Hydel Project(Phase-I) Approved 101 2x2250 Kw Assiganga Mini Hydel Project Approved 102 4mw Khiro Ganga Hydro Electric Project(0.90 Ha.) Approved 103 Karmi Iii Mini Hydel Scheme (0.1596) Approved 104 Tarula Micro Hydel Scheme (0.0483) Approved 105 Hanol Tyuni Micro Hydel Project In-Principle 106 Diversion Of 80.507 Ha. Of Forest Land For Construction Of 444 Mw Vishmugarh- In-Principle Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of Tehri Hydro Development Corp. (Thdc). 107 Construction Of Kotlibhel Stage-I, Hydro Electric Power Project (195mw) In River In-Principle Bhagirathi Favouring Nhpc Ltd 108 Diversion Of 60.513 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of Alaknanda Hydro-Electric In-Principle Project In Favour Of Gmr Energy Ltd.

State-wise Details of Proposals Seeking Forest Clearance to Wind Power Projects Cleared During the Last Three Years

S. State and Name of Proposal Remarks No. Andhra Pradesh 1 Diversion Of 16.84 Ha. Of Forest Land In C.S.No.208, 210 & 211 Of Devagudipadu Rf Of Approved Dhone Range For Establishment Of 33.00 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Sarjan Realities Ltd. 2 Diversion Of Forest Land In Comp. No. 552 To 566 Ellutla Rf Of Anantapur Range Of In-Principle Anantapur Forest Division For Establishing Of 48 Mw Wind Power Project 3 Establishment Of Wind Power Project In Gandikota North, Gandikota South & Yamavaram In-Principle Reserve Forests Of Proddatur Division In Favour Of Suzlon Infrastrucuture Limited Gujarat 4 Diversion Of 68.82 Ha. Of Reserved Forest Land For Construction Of Wind Power Project In Approved Villages 54.40 Mw- Jamvadi, Chattar, Haripar Mevasa, Dhun Dhoraji, Bodi, Moti Vavdi Ta. Narmana, Ta. Jam Jodhpur M/S Vish Wind Infrastructure Limited 5 Diversion Of 120.7496 Ha Reseved Forest Land For Construction Of Wind Power Project In Approved Favour Of Enercon (India) Ltd. In District Jamnagar, Gujarat 6 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Wind Power Project In Favour Of Suzlan Energy In-Principle Limited 7 Construction Of Wind Power Project, Village- Ddaraka In Favour Of Suzlon Gujatat Wind Park In-Principle Ltd Karnataka 8 Diversion Of 72.527 Ha Of Forest Land In Tuppadahalli State Forest Of Bhadrvathi Forest Approved Division For Establishing 57.75 Mw Wind Power Project Of M/S Chitradurga Wind Power Private Limited 9 Diversion Of Forest Land In Hyrada Reserve Forest Of Davangere Forest Division For Approved Establishing 39.60 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Chitradurga Wind Power Private Limited 10 Development Of 27 Mw Wind Power Project In Gangavana Sara State Forest, Shikaripura Taluk, Approved Sagar Division In Favour Of M/S. Sarjan Realities Limited 11 Diversion Of Forest Land For Setting Up Of Wind Power Project In Ramadurga And Soundatti Approved Taluk In Favour Of M/S Enercon (India) Limited 12 Diversion Of Forest Land For Establishment Of 112 Mw Wind Power Project In Belgaum And Approved Bailahongal Taluk In Favour Of M/S Enercon (India) Ltd. 13 Diversion Of 39.70 Ha. Of Forest Land In Doni Village, Mundargi Taluk, Gadag Approved Division/District For Establishment Of Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Bhoruka Power Corporation Limited, Bangalore. 14 26.40 Mw Wind Power Project In Torangallu And Chikkanthapur Reserve Forest In Favour Of In-Principle Suzlon Energy Limited 15 Diversion Of 38.43 Ha. Of Forest Land In Mincheri Rf, Bellary Range Of Bellary Forest In-Principle Division/District For Establishment Of 27 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Suzlon

Infrastructure Limited, Bangalore. 16 Diversion Of 12.641 Ha. Of Forest Land In Herada Rf, Harapanahalli Range Of Davangere In-Principle Forest Divn. For Establishment Of 10.50 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Sarjan Realities Ltd., Bangalore. 17 Diversion Of 24.902 Ha. Of Forest Land For Establishment Of Wind Power Project In Byadagi In-Principle Range Of Haveri Division/District By M/S Sarjan Realities Limited, Bangalore. 18 Diversion Of 24.028 Ha. Of Forest Land In Herada Rf, Hadagali Range Of Bellary Forest Divn. In-Principle For Establishment Of 25.20 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Sarjan Realities Ltd., Bangalore. Madhya Pradesh 19 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Wind Power Project In Shajapur Forest Division Approved (Partial Area Of Compartment No. P14 To P18) And Reserve Forest In Favour Of M/S Enercon India Limited 20 Diversion Of Forest Land For Development Of Eco-Friendly Wind Farm Project In Palsud And In-Principle Pansemal Block Of Sendhwa Division In Favour Of Suzlon Infrastructure Limited Maharashtra 21 Wind Power Project Envisages The Installation Of 56 Wind Turbines Of 1.25 Mw Generating Approved Capacity Each And 50 Wind Turbine Of 0.60 Mw Generating Capacity Each. The Project Is Prodution Of 100 Mw Electricity (Van-Kusawade Windy Site - Application Ii) 22 Diversion Of Forest Land For Installation Of Wind Power Project (Chakla) In Favour Of M/S Approved Suzlon Energy Limited 23 Installation Of Wind Power Project In F/O Suzlon Energy Ltd Approved 24 Diversion Of Forest Land For Development Of Chavaneshwar Wind Power Project Approved 25 Diversion Of Forest Land For Andhra Lake Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Enercon Approved India Ltd. 26 Installation Of Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Suzlon Energy Ltd Approved

DEFORESTATION IN THE COUNTRY 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3420

SHRI DHIRAJ PRASAD SAHU

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

(a) whether the Ministry has taken a decision to place Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) directly under Gram Panchayats (GPs) across the States; (b) whether Government is aware of the fact that lakhs of JFMCs have together successfully halted the degradation and decrease in forest cover of the country without the involvement of GPs; (c) whether the principle of ex-ante responsibility and post-facto benefit sharing is the essence of success of JFMCs so far; and (d) if so, the steps taken by Government to preserve the conjoint principle of responsibility and benefit sharing in future arrangements?

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

(a) No, Sir. However, in the context of decentralized governance, the Government of India has issued an advisory on 29.10.2010 which states that existing JFMCs should function under the overall guidance and supervision of the Gram Sabhas.

(b) Yes, Sir.

(c) Yes, Sir.

(d) The State and UT Governments have issued JFM resolutions for community participation in conservation, management, and protection of forests with benefit sharing mechanism on the principle of care and share.

TOXIC WASTE IN UNION CARBIDE FACTORY AT BHOPAL

8th May, 2012

RSQ 3421

SHRIMATI KUSUM RAI SHRI PRABHAT JHA

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

(a) whether Government has decided to dispose off the toxic waste lying in the closed Union Carbide Factory at Bhopal at a waste disposal unit situated in a town near the city; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Non-Government Organisations have protested against this decision of Government; (d) if so, whether the decision is being reconsidered; (e) whether the Supreme Court has given any order in this regard; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (f) Based on the recommendations of a Group of Ministers (GoM) set up to examine the issues related to Bhopal Gas Leak Disaster, the Government of Madhya Pradesh has been entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring disposal of 350 MT of toxic waste lying in the premises of the erstwhile Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL), Bhopal in the Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facility (TSDF) located at Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh. For this, a trial run is to be carried out at the Pithampur TSDF. In a Special Leave Petition [No. 9874 of 2012] the Hon’ble Supreme Court vide an order dated 4th April, 2012 has directed the authorities to undertake all necessary steps for conducting the trial disposal of 10 metric tonnes of UCIL waste at Pithampur TSDF within a period of three months.

STUDY ON IMPACT OF MOBILE TOWERS ON WILDLIFE 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3422

SHRI BHARATSINH PRABHATSINH PARMAR SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA

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

(a) whether the Ministry has constituted a committee to examine impacts of mobile towers on wildlife; (b) if so, the action taken by Government on recommendations of this committee; (c) whether this committee has conducted or going to conduct a study on Gir forest in this regard; and (d) 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 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 Expert Committee has since submitted its report to the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The report is being examined by the Ministry in consultation with the concerned organizations.

(c) & (d) No such study is conducted or proposed to be conducted by the Committee at present.

COMPLIANCE REPORT ON NIRA DEOGHAR IRRIGATION PROJECT 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3423

SHRI AVINASH PANDE

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

(a) whether Government has received compliance report regarding Nira Deoghar Irrigation Project in Satara district from the State Government; (b) if so, by when Government received the report; (c) the current status of the clearance sought; and (d) the time Government requires to complete the entire procedure?

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

(a) to (d): The Nira Deoghar Irrigation Project in Pune District of Maharashtra has been granted environmental clearance on 14.5.2003.

ASSESSMENT OF NRCP 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3424

DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI

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

(a) the funds allocated to various States under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) for cleaning of river water during the last three years, State-wise and yearwise; (b) whether Government has assessed the improvement in the quality of river water, in the aftermath of NRCP; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether Government proposes to include more rivers under NRCP; and (e) if so, the details thereof, State-wise?

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

(a) The details of funds released to States under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) during the last three years, State-wise and year-wise are at Annexure.

(b) & (c) The major cause of rising organic pollution particularly Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) in the rivers is due to discharge of untreated and partially treated domestic effluents by various municipalities across the country and therefore interception, diversion and treatment of sewage have been among the major works taken up. Sewage treatment capacity of 4664 million litres per day has been created so far under the Plan. Creation of sewerage infrastructure for its disposal is the responsibility of the State Governments/Urban Local Bodies. Assistance is also provided in this regard through other central schemes, such as Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission and Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns.

The water quality, in terms of BOD values for major rivers is reported to have improved as compared to the water quality before taking up pollution abatement works under NRCP. 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 along various rivers.

(d) & (e) 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 pollution abatement in identified river stretches under NRCP. This Plan presently covers 40 rivers in 190 towns spread over 20 States. Inclusion of additional rivers/towns under the Plan is a continuous process based on proposals received from State Governments, the funds available under the Plan, degree of pollution etc.

Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3424 to be answered on 08.05.2012 on ‘Assessment of NRCP’.

Details of funds released to States under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) during 2009-10, 2010-11 & 2011-12 (Rs. in crore) Sl. State 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 1 Andhra Pradesh 36.89 -- -- 2 Bihar 15.37 20.00 -- 3 Jharkhand ------4 Gujarat -- 0.39 -- 5 Goa ------6 Karnataka -- 0.96 -- 7 Maharashtra 7.38 11.82 -- 8 Madhya Pradesh 0.90 -- -- 9 Orissa -- -- 5.00 10 Punjab -- 45.75 47.53 11 Rajasthan 20.00 -- 20.00 12 Tamil nadu 3.10 -- -- 13 Delhi 66.50 83.29 34.88 14 Haryana 14.90 4.10 -- 15 Uttar Pradesh 112.80 238.59 72.75 16 Uttrakhand 17.94 31.88 -- 17 West Bengal 57.08 194.13 -- 18 Kerala ------19 Sikkim 15.00 26.14 9.30 20 Nagaland ------Total 367.86 657.05 189.46

INCREASE IN E-WASTE GENERATION IN THE COUNTRY 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3425

SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY

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

(a) whether there has been a substantial increase in the generation of e-waste in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof, and whether some foreign countries are dumping e-waste into the country; (c) the steps taken by Government to ensure that such e-waste is processed and is not hazardous; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d) Based on a survey carried out by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), it is estimated that 1.47 lakh Metric Tons (MT) of e-waste was generated in the country in the year 2005, which is expected to increase to about 8.00 lakh MT by 2012.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has notified the Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008. Import and export of e-waste are regulated as per these rules. Import of such wastes for disposal is not permitted. Import is permitted only for recycling or recovery or reuse with the permission of the Ministry of Environment and Forests and/or Directorate General of Foreign Trade. Permission for import and export of e-waste can be considered only by those recycling units, which have environmentally sound recycling facilities and are registered with State Pollution Control Board/ Pollution Control Committee concerned.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests has taken a number of steps to ensure environmentally sound management of e-waste in the country. These include:

(i) For effective implementation of provisions related to import and export, a co-ordination committee including representatives from the Ministry of Finance (Department. of Revenue), the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (DGFT), the Ministry of Shipping (Department. of Ports), the Central Pollution Control Board and select State Pollution Control Boards has been constituted. This committee has been working to sensitize the Customs authorities regarding enforcement of these Rules in order to check illegal import of E-waste into the country. (ii) Separate E-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 have been notified on 12th May, 2011. These Rules have come in to effect from 1st May 2012. The concept of Extended Producer Responsibility has been enshrined in these rules to make it a mandatory activity for the manufacturers of electronic and electrical equipments. Under this 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. (iii) As per 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 a registered or authorized recycler or re-processor having environmentally sound facilities. (iv) The Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Management of e-waste, published by Central Pollution Control Board, provide approach and methodology for environmentally sound management of e-waste. (v) The Ministry is implementing a Scheme to provide financial assistance for setting up of treatment, disposal and storage facility for hazardous and integrated recycling facilities for E- waste on public private partnership mode.

SOUND E-WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3426

SHRI K. E. ISMAIL SHRI M. P. ACHUTHAN

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

(a) whether it is a fact that India's output of e-waste has jumped by eight times in the past seven years; (b) if so, the top ten e-waste producing cities and the quantity being produced by each of these cities; (c) whether it is also a fact that Government has evolved a sound e-waste management system; (d) if so, whether it is also a fact that it is not being enforced leading to serious public health hazards; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a)&(b) Based on a survey carried out by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), it is estimated that 1.47 lakh Metric Tons (MT) of e-waste was generated in the country in the year 2005, which is expected to increase to about 8.00 lakh MT by 2012. The ten States generating the maximum quantities of e-waste are as follows:

Sl. No. City E-Waste (MT) (2004-05) 1. Mumbai 11017

2. Delhi 9729 3. Bangalore 4648 4. Chennai 4132 5. Kolkata 4025 6. Ahmedabad 3288 7. Hyderabad 2833 8. Pune 2584 9. Surat 1837 10. Nagpur 1769

(c) 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. The Rules have come in to effect from 1st May 2012. The concept of Extended Producer Responsibility has been enshrined in these rules to make it a mandatory activity for the manufacturers of electronic and electrical equipments. Under this 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.

Collection centres are required to obtain authorization from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) concerned. Dismantlers and Recyclers are required to obtain authorization and registration from the SPCB concerned.

As per 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 a registered or authorized recycler or re-processor having environmentally sound facilities. Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Management of E-waste brought out by Central Pollution Control Board provide the approach and methodology for environmentally sound management of e-waste.

CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF MANGROVE FOREST IN ODISHA COAST 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3427

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) whether Government has received any proposal or financial outlay amounting to `130.73 lakhs for conservation and management of Mangrove forest in Odisha coast; and (b) 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) & (b) Yes, Sir. The Ministry has received proposals from the State Government of Odisha seeking financial assistance of `130.73 lakhs during 2010-11 for conservation and management of mangrove forest under Centrally Sponsored Scheme. During the year, an amount of `30.25 lakhs has been released to the State Government of Odisha for conservation and management of mangroves at Bhitarkanika, Devi-Kadua and Mahanadi mangrove sites as per their eligibility according to the guidelines of the Ministry. Thereafter, an amount of `62.30 lakhs has also been released against the proposed amount of `184.34 lakhs during 2011-12 to the State Government of Odisha for conservation and management of mangrove forest.

UTILIZATION OF FUNDS COLLECTED UNDER SUBSTITUTE FORESTRY SCHEME 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3428

SHRI PRAKASH JAVADEKAR

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

(a) the funds collected, so far under the substitute forestry scheme, deposited by various companies, since the imposition of the scheme; (b) the details of planned utilization of this fund; and (c) the details of the progress of the scheme, so far?

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

(a) , (b) & (c) There is no scheme under the nomenclature of “substitute forestry scheme”. However, whenever forest land is diverted for non forest use under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 the user agencies are required to deposit compensatory levies which are maintained in State-wise accounts by the Ad-hoc Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). After providing for allocations to State CAMPAs and to the National CAMPA Advisory Council in terms of the Order dated 10th July, 2009 of the Supreme Court of India in IA No.2143 in WP(C No.202/1995 : T N Godavarman Thirumalpad Vs Union of India & Ors, an amount of Rs.22,382 crores is held in interest bearing accounts in nationalized Banks as on 31st March, 2012. In terms of the orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, against Annual Plans of Operation submitted by the State CAMPAs for the years 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12, amounts of Rs.983 crores, Rs.1034 crores and Rs.824 crores, respectively have been released.

GREEN INDIA MISSION IN CHHATTISGARH 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3429

SHRI SHIVPRATAP SINGH

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

(a) the progress made under National Green India Mission in Chhattisgarh; and (b) the details of new steps being taken by Government for afforestation of degraded forest areas of the state?

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

(b) The National Mission for Green India is a new initiative by the Ministry of Environment and Forests which focuses the landscape approach and aims to increase forest and tree cover on 5 million ha area and to improve quality of forest cover on another 5 m ha area as well as to improve ecosystem services, forest based livelihood and enhance carbon sequestration in the country. The mission is to be implemented for 10 years from 2012-13. The year 2011-12 was the preparatory year and Rs. 9.72 Crore has been released to Government of Chhattisgarh for carrying out institutional capacity building, micro-planning, entry point activities, nursery preparation etc.

(c) part from Green India Mission, a grant of Rs. 5000 crores under the 13th Finance Commission has been awarded to incentivize the states for preservation and maintenance of their forest cover which also includes the state of Chhatisgarh. The Ministry of Environment and Forests is providing 100% financial assistance under Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for the ecorestoration and regeneration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in the country. The scheme guidelines has been revised to further decentralize the scheme administration to the States, modify the institutional arrangements, streamline the fund flow, and two new components of value addition & marketing and capacity building of village communities are included with a view to enhance the delivery of the programme. Afforestation activities are also being taken up under Externally Aided Projects in 12 States.

PREVENTION OF ILLEGAL MINING IN PROTECTED FOREST AREAS 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3430

SHRI ISHWAR SINGH

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has formed a Forest Advisory Committee to map no-go areas for mining in the country; (b) if so, the details of the representatives in the Committee; (c) the details of the recommendations made by the Committee; and (d) the steps being taken to prevent illegal mining in protected forest areas in the country?

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

(a) to (c) To formulate objective parameters for identification of pristine forest areas where any mining activity would lead to irreversible damage, and such other forest areas which needs to be conserved and protected to meet the larger objective of the long term conservation of forest and wildlife resources in the country, the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) constituted a committee under the Chairmanship of the Secretary, Environment and Forests. The Director General of Forests and Special Secretray to the Government of India; Addl. Director General of Forests (Wildlife), MoEF, Addl. Director General of Forests (Forest Conservation), MoEF; Chairman, National Biodiversity Authority; Director General, Forest Survey of India; Director, Wildlife Institute of India; Member Secretray, National Tiger Conservation Authority; Principal Chief Conservator of Forests of the States of Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Meghalaya and Rajasthan; Joint Secretary, Impact Assessment Division, MoEF; and Inspector General of Forests, Forest Conservation Division, MoEF are members of the said Committee. The Committee is formulating its recommendations.

(d) Protection and management of the forests and protected areas, including prevention of illegal mining therein, is primary responsibility of the concerned State/ UT Governments. The MOEF however, provides financial and technical assistance under various Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes to State/ UT Governments to strengthen and upgrade management and protection of forests and protected areas in the country.

RESPIRATORY DISEASES DUE TO AIR POLLUTION IN NATIONAL CAPITAL 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3431

SHRI MOHAMMED ADEEB

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the number of people dying of respiratory diseases in the national capital is going up; (b) whether it is happening due to rise in air pollution; (c) if so, the reasons for the increase; and (d) the steps being taken in the matter?

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

(a) to (d) According to some epidemiological studies, health effects such as manifestation of respiratory diseases could be associated with air pollution. Steps taken by the Central Government for control of 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 & 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.

GUNJAWANI IRRIGATION PROJECT AT PUNE 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3432

SHRI AVINASH PANDE

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

(a) whether Government has received compliance report regarding Gunjawani Irrigation Project at Pune from the State Government; (b) if so, the current status of the clearance sought; and (c) the time Government requires to complete the entire procedure?

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

(a) to (c): The Gunjawani Irrigation Project in Pune District of Maharashtra has been granted environmental clearance by the Ministry of Environment and Forests on 29.4.2005.

STRENGTHENING OF BAMBOO BOARD 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3433

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) the initiatives which have been taken to strengthen the Bamboo Board after the formation of Bamboo Board in 2003; (b) whether Government is coming out with some policy as far as bamboo is concerned; (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) The National Bamboo Mission (NBM) is being implemented by Horticulture Division under Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture in 27 States in the country with aims: to promote holistic growth of the bamboo sector through area based regionally differentiated strategies; to increase the area under bamboo in potential regions with appropriate species to enhance yield; to establish convergence and synergy among stock-holders for development of bamboo and bamboo based products; to promote, develop and disseminate technologies and to generate employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled persons, especially unemployed youth.

Since inception under the Mission, 1,95,339 ha land has been planted with bamboo. An area of 51,925 ha of existing bamboo plantation has been improved for higher productivity. In addition, 1279 nurseries have been established for supplying quality planting material. In different States, 36,868 farmers and 5711 field functionaries have been trained in the area of nursery management and bamboo plantation. In order to generate awareness among bamboo growers, 47 state-level and 471 district-level workshops / seminars have been conducted.

(b), (c) & (d) The Ministry of Environment & Forests has not formulated any policy on bamboo. However, National Bamboo Mission under the Ministry of Agriculture are preparing various strategies to promote holistic growth of bamboo sector.

FOREST COVER IN TAMIL NADU 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3434

SHRIMATI VASANTHI STANLEY

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

(a) whether it is a fact that forest cover has decreased in the country over the years; (b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise, with special reference to Tamil Nadu; and (c) the reasons for the decrease?

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

(a) The forest cover of the country is assessed by Forest Survey of India, Dehradun since 1987. The same is published in India State of Forest Report which is published biennially by Forest Survey of India. The forest cover assessment of the country over the years is as follows: (Area in km2 ) 1987 1997 2009 2011 6,40,819 6,59,550 6,92,394 6,92,027

As per India State of Forest Report, 2011, there is marginal decline of 367 km2 with respect to previous assessment of India State of Forest Report, 2009. The details of forest cover, State-wise, as per India State of Forest Report is given in Annexure I.

(b) & (c) As per India State of Forest Report 2011, 13 States / UTs have shown decrease in forest cover to the extent of 867 km2 in the States whose details are given in Annexure II alongwith the reasons. There is also an increase of 500 km2 of forest cover in the States of Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Punjab, Jharkhand, Orissa and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. So, effectively there is net decline of forest cover to the tune of 367 km2. Regarding the State of Tamil Nadu as per India State of Forest Report, 2011, the forest cover of the State is 23,625 km2 which is 18.16% of the State geographical area. There is net increase of 74 km2 with respect to previous assessment of 2009. The reason for increase in forest cover in the State of Tamil Nadu is regeneration in forest areas and extensive plantation activities in and outside forests.

Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (a) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3434 due for answer on 08.05.2012 regarding ‘Forest Cover in Tamil Nadu”

Forest cover in States/UTs in India (area in sq km) State/UT Geog. Forest Cover in 2011 Real change* Area Very Dense Mod. Dense Open Total From SFR 09 Forest Forest Forest Andhra Pradesh 275069 850 26242 19297 46389 -281 Arunachal Pradesh 83743 20868 31519 15023 67410 -74 Assam 78438 1444 11404 14825 27673 -19 Bihar 94163 231 3280 3334 6845 41 Chhattisgarh 135191 4163 34911 16600 55674 -4 Delhi 1483 7 49 120 176 0 Goa 3702 543 585 1091 2219 7 Gujarat 196022 376 5231 9012 14619 -1 Haryana 44212 27 457 1124 1608 14 Himachal Pradesh 55673 3224 6381 5074 14679 11 Jammu & Kashmir 222236 4140 8760 9639 22539 2 Jharkhand 79714 2590 9917 10470 22977 83 Karnataka 191791 1777 20179 14238 36194 4 Kerala 38863 1442 9394 6464 17300 -24 Madhya Pradesh 308245 6640 34986 36074 77700 0 Maharashtra 307713 8736 20815 21095 50646 -4

Manipur 22327 730 6151 10209 17090 -190 Meghalaya 22429 433 9775 7067 17275 -46 Mizoram 21081 134 6086 12897 19117 -66 Nagaland 16579 1293 4931 7094 13318 -146 Orissa 155707 7060 21366 20477 48903 48 Punjab 50362 0 736 1028 1764 100 Rajasthan 342239 72 4448 11567 16087 51 Sikkim 7096 500 2161 698 3359 0 Tamil Nadu 130058 2948 10321 10356 23625 74 Tripura 10486 109 4686 3182 7977 -8 Uttar Pradesh 240928 1626 4559 8153 14338 -3 Uttarakhand 53483 4762 14167 5567 24496 1 West Bengal 88752 2984 4646 5365 12995 1 A&N Islands 8249 3761 2416 547 6724 62 Chandigarh 114 1 10 6 17 0 Dadra & Nagar 491 0 114 97 211 0 Haveli Daman & Diu 112 0 0.62 5.53 6 0 Lakshadweep 32 0 17.18 9.88 27 1 Puducherry 480 0 35.37 14.69 50 0 Grand Total 3287263 83471 320736 287820 692027 -367 * The change in the above table refers to change in the area with respect to 2009 assessment after incorporation interpretational changes Annexure-II referred to in reply to part (b) & (c) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3434 due for answer on 08.05.2012 regarding ‘Forest Cover in Tamil Nadu”

States / UTs wise decline in forest cover in the country and reasons therefore

S.No States Change from ISFR Major reasons for loss 2009(km2) 1 Andhra -281 Management interventions like harvesting of short rotation crops followed by Pradesh 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 -74 Change in forest cover in the state is because of shifting cultivation and biotic Pradesh 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 -3 - Pradesh 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

MIGRATION OF SIBERIAN CRANES TO INDIA 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3435

SHRI V.P. SINGH BADNORE

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

(a) the names of lakes or water bodies where Siberian Cranes migrate in the country; (b) when and how many of them were last sighted; and (c) whether Government has any programme to ensure their migration to this country and also their survival?

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

(a) Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur in Rajasthan has been the only known wintering grounds for Siberian Crane in India since 1940s. (b) A pair of Siberian Crane, i.e. two birds, was sighted last in the Keoladeo Ghana National Park during the year 2000-01. (c) The Government has taken following steps to ensure the migration of Siberian Cranes to India:

(i) A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Conservation of Siberian Cranes under the auspices of the Convention on Migratory Species of wild animals (Bonn Convention) has been signed to develop partnership with other countries along the migratory route of the species in Asia to help reduce threats for Siberian Cranes and preserve wetland sites required for their migration to India. (ii) Governments of India and Russia have signed a bilateral treaty to conserve cranes and ensure their safety in the breeding and wintering sites. (iii) The Government is taking necessary measures to restore the wetland character of , which is the major wintering site of Siberian Crane.

RECYCLE OF WASTE PAPERS 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3436

SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that many countries in the world have made it mandatory to recycle waste papers and go green, while India is yet to take this bold step; (b) whether the Union Health Ministry is proposing to go green in various hospitals in the country, including Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Delhi; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (c) Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified the Municipal Solid Wastes (Management & Handling) Rules, 2000 which, inter-alia, stipulate that mixed waste containing recoverable resources shall follow the route of recycling. As per information provided by the Director General of Health Service, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital has initiated action with regard to “go green” concept. This includes installation of rain water harvesting system, solar heating facilities, installation of compact fluorescent lamps, use of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) in incinerator and laundry, and management of biomedical waste etc. The new buildings under construction in Phase-I of comprehensive re-development plan of Lady Hardinge Medical College are proposed to be green.

USE OF FUELWOOD IN THE COUNTRY 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3437

SHRI DHIRAJ PRASAD SAHU

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

(a) whether fuelwood is the single largest use of forests in the country; (b) whether Green India Mission of the Government has integrated this fact as the centrepiece of its strategy; (c) if so, the details thereof, including steps planned for more efficient fuelwood production and use other than by direct burning by households; and (d) the details of trading plan formulated by Government for carbon savings from such indirect fuelwood use?

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

(a) As per India State of Forest Report, 2011, the fuelwood and feed for livestock (fodder collection and grazing) are the main products from forests.

(b) to (d) The National Mission for Green India is a new programme by the Ministry of Environment & 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 area as well as to improve ecosystem services, forest based livelihood and enhance carbon sequestration. The Green India Mission also envisages improving carbon efficiency and promoting alternative energy devices such as biogas, solar devices, biomass based energy and expansion of services for cleaner cooking fuels like LPG in rural areas; improved fuel-efficient stoves etc. would help in reducing pressure on forests, gaining carbon benefits, along with health and other associated benefits. One of the objectives envisaged in the Green India Mission document is to enhance annual CO2 sequestration by 50 to 60 million tonnes in the year 2020.

FOREST COVER IN GOA 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3438

SHRI

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

(a) the present forest cover in Goa; (b) the percentage of forest cover during 1960-70, 1971-80, 1981-90, 1991-2000 and 2001-2010; (c) the steps proposes to be taken by the State Government to increase the forest cover and the target set thereof; and (d) the details thereof?

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 the State of Goa is 2219 Km2 which is 59.94% of the State geographical area.

(b) The Forest cover of the country, State-wise, is assessed by Forest Survey of India since 1987. The details of forest cover of Goa as per India State of Forest Report from 1987 to 2011 is as under:- (Area in sq.km) Year 1987 1989 1991 1993 1995 1997 1999 2001 2003 2005 2009 2011 Area 1240 1255 1255 1250 1250 1252 1251 2095 2156 2164 2151 2219

(c) & (d) 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 release funds under the Intensification of Forest Management Scheme (IIFMS), for strengthening of forest protection such as infrastructure, fire protection, demarcation of forest boundaries, construction of facilities for frontline staff and communication which has contributed towards increase in the forest cover. iii. Under the National Action Plan on Climate Change announced by the Central Government, a National Mission for a ‘Green India’ has been mooted in which quality to improve the degraded forests along with afforestation are major objectives. iv. Under the award of 13th Finance Commission, a grant of Rs.5000 crores has been allocated as “Forest Grants” to the states on the basis of their forest cover in the State in relation to the national average. It has been further weighted by the quality of the forests in each state as measured by density. v. Afforestation activities are undertaken under various External Aided Projects by 12 States.

NOTIFICATION OF CRITICAL WILDLIFE HABITATS IN ODISHA 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3439

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA:

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state whether Government has approved the proposal of the State Government of Odisha to declare 15.33 km. area of Chilkanalaban sanctuary, entire Gahirmath sanctuary and Chandaka sanctuary as critical wildlife habitats?

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

The Government of Odisha had forwarded proposals to the Central Level Committee for notification of Chilka Nalaban Sanctuary, Gahirmatha Sanctuary and Chandaka Sanctuary as Critical Wildlife Habitats under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. These proposals were considered by the Central Level Committee and were found to be incomplete. Therefore, the State Government was requested to submit revised proposal, which has not been received in the Ministry of Environment and Forests so far.

CONSERVATION OF ELEPHANTS AND TIGERS 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3440

SHRI MOHAMMED ADEEB

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

(a) whether Government has any proposal to set up National Elephant Conservation Authority; (b) if so, the time by when; and

(c) the details of measures taken to check the decreasing number of tigers?

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

(a) & (b) The Task Force on Project Elephant constituted by the Ministry during 2010 has recommended in its report that Project Elephant should be converted into a statutory agency on the lines of National Tiger Conservation Authority for a more effective conservation and management regime for the elephant in India. It has suggested relevant amendments in the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 for the purpose. The Government has not taken a final decision in the matter.

(c) The details of important measures taken by the Government for protection of tigers and other wildlife are given in the Annexure.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 3440 REGARDING ‘CONSERVATION OF ELEPHANTS AND TIGERS’ BY SHRI MOHAMMED ADEEB DUE FOR REPLY ON 08.05.2012

Important initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection of tigers and other wildlife

Legal steps

1. Amendment of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 for providing enabling provisions towards constituting the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau. 2. Enhancement of punishment in cases of offence relating to a tiger reserve or its core area.

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 / home guards, apart from workforce comprising of local people, in addition to strengthening of communication / wireless facilities.

4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from 4.09.2006, 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 6.6.2007 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 (Orissa) and Mukundara Hills (including Darrah, Jawahar Sagar and Chambal Wildlife Sanctuaries) (Rajasthan). Final approval has been accorded to Kudremukh (Karnataka) for declaring as Tiger Reserve. Besides, the States 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) Satyamangalam (Tamil Nadu), (v) Guru Ghasidas National Park (Chhattisgarh), (vi) Mhadei Sanctuary (Goa) and (vii) Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel / Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuaries / Varushanadu Valley (Tamil Nadu).

7. The revised Project Tiger guidelines have been issued to States for strengthening tiger conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, interalia, include funding support to States for enhanced village relocation/rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh/family to Rs. 10 lakhs/family), rehabilitation/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/assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. An area of 33472.01 sq. km. has been notified by 16 Tiger States (out of 17) as core or critical tiger habitat under section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006 (Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal). The State of Bihar has taken a decision for notifying the core or critical tiger habitat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

Financial steps

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

International Cooperation

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

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

13. 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 directions 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.

14. Based on India’s strong intervention during the 58th meeting of the Standing Committee of the CITES at Geneva from 6th to 10th July, 2009, the CITES Secretariat has issued a notification to Parties to submit reports relating to compliance of Decisions 14.69 and 14.65 within 90 days with effect from 20.10.2009 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.).

Reintroduction of Tigers

15. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers / tigresses have been done.

16. 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)

17. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of 29.2.2008, interalia, 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, the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. Rs. 93 lakhs each has been released to Corbett, Ranthambhore & Dudhwa Tiger Reserve for creation of STPF during 2008-09. Since then, the guidelines of the STPF have been revised for deploying forest personnel in place of Police as an option-II, with scope for involving local people like the Van Gujjars. During the year 2011-12, an amount of Rs. 3 crores has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for raising, arming and deploying the STPF.

18. 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

1. Implementing a tripartite MOU with tiger States, linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives.

2. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

4. 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.

5. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching ‘M-STrIPES’ for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

6. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

7. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

8. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves (e-Eye).

9. 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.

10. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

11. The allocation for the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger has been enhanced with additional new components, viz. change in funding pattern in respect of North Eastern States (90:10), raising compensation for man-animal conflict to Rs. 2 lakhs, acquisition of private land for making the core/critical tiger habitat inviolate, establishment of Tiger Safari, interpretation / awareness centres under the existing component of ‘co-existence agenda in buffer / fringe areas’ and management of such centers through the respective Panchayati Raj Institutions, and re-introduction of Cheetah.

12. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and Guwahati.

13. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi, a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity / tiger conservation.

14. Tiger Reserve level monitoring launched (Phase-IV) to keep track of tiger source populations, besides developing a National Repository of Camera Trap Photographs of Tigers (NRCTPT).

NIRA DEOGHAR PROJECT IN MAHARASHTRA 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3441

SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL

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

(a) whether Government has not yet given approval for the diversion of land for construction of a canal in Nira Deoghar , Maharashtra; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is a fact that the State Government of Maharashtra has furnished all documents and compliance reports, yet final approval has not been granted; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) by when the final clearance is expected?

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

(a) to (e) In principle approval for the diversion of 1.98 ha of forest land under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for the Nira Deoghar Project in Maharashtra has been accorded by the Ministry. The compliance of some of the conditions stipulated in the in principle approval is awaited from the Government of Maharashtra.

SILTING OF RIVER BEDS 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3442

DR. C.P. THAKUR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that flow of the rivers in the country is decreasing due to pollution, garbage and silting of river bed; (b) whether Government has carried out any scientific study in this regard; (c) the steps taken by Government to check pollution in the Ganga river; (d) the funds spent on these measures during the last seven years, year-wise; (e) whether any assessment has been made regarding benefits achieved through these measures; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) As per Water Quality Division of Ministry of Water Resources, no scientific study has been carried out by them regarding decrease of river flows due to pollution/garbage and silting of river bed.

(c) to (f) A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed by the Government with a consortium of 7 Indian Institute of Technologies for preparation of a comprehensive Ganga River Basin Management Plan to facilitate a roadmap for conservation of the river with a river basin approach. The objectives of the Plan include identification of measures for overall improvement of the ecological health of the river, augmentation of river flow, and control of pollution. 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. An amount of Rs.1441.44 crore has been released towards implementation of various pollution abatement works in towns along the river Ganga and sewage treatment capacity of 1091 million litres per day (mld) has been created. Details of expenditure incurred during the last 7 years, year-wise are given in the Annexure.

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 NGRBA in its first meeting has resolved that under Mission Clean Ganga it will be ensured that by 2020 no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluents flow into Ganga and the investments required to create the necessary treatment and sewage infrastructure will be shared suitably between the Central and the State Governments. Projects amounting to Rs. 2598 crore have been sanctioned so far under the NGRBA programme. Besides, a project with World Bank assistance for abatement of pollution of river Ganga at an estimated cost of Rs. 7000 crore has been approved under the NGRBA for implementation in the States.

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 is 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.

Annexure referred to in reply to parts (c) to (f) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3442 to be answered on 08.05.2012 on ‘Silting of river beds’.

Central funds released to States for pollution abatement works for river Ganga during the last seven years (Rs. in crore) Sl.No Financial Year Funds Released 1 2005-06 49.07 2 2006-07 47.69 3 2007-08 48.00 4 2008-09 54.86 5 2009-10 103.96 6 2010-11 468.50 7 2011-12 53.44

POLLUTING OF THE GANGA BY INDUSTRIES 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3443

SHRIMATI

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

(a) whether the Prime Minister has recently pulled up State Governments for tardy performance on sewage treatment and also directed them to take action against industries polluting the river Ganga; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) 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 (d) if so, the steps 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) & (b) In his address in the third meeting of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) held on the 17th April, 2012, the Prime Minister, while inviting attention of the State Governments on the factors contributing to the pollution of river Ganga, called for optimal utilisation of the existing sewage treatment plants, ensuring proper operation and maintenance, effective monitoring of discharge of effluents by industrial units by the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and to strengthen the enforcement mechanism in this regard.

(c) & (d) In spite of the increasing industrialization leading to increase in wastewater generation over the years, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the SPCBs have taken concrete steps to reduce the pollution in water by critical industries like Pulp and paper, Sugar & Distillery etc. in the cities along the Ganga River. The CPCB and SPCBs monitor compliance of effluent discharge standards by the industries. Measures taken by the Pollution Control Boards for pollution abatement include; i) Implementation of time targeted programme under Corporate Responsibility on Environment Protection, ii) Identification of critically Polluted areas for preparation and implementation of action plan for the towns located on the main stem of Ganga and iii) Installation of Common Effluent Treatment Plants for cluster of Small Scale Industrial units.

So far, 716 grossly polluting industries have been identified by CPCB discharging approximately 488 million litres per day (mld) of wastewater directly or through tributaries of river Ganga. Major industries are Pulp & paper, Sugar, Distillery, Chemical, Textile, Dyeing & Bleach, tannery etc. Various measures for reduction of wastewater from these industries like; compulsory installation and operation of Chemical Recovery Unit (CRU), improved pulp washing system in agro based Pulp & Paper industries, adoption of zero discharge norms through technological intervention of anaerobic treatment followed by Reverse Osmosis (RO) and recovery of water for reuse and recycle in sugar and distillery industries, etc. have been taken.

Ganga Action Plan 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. An expenditure of Rs. 1045 crore has been incurred towards implementation of various pollution abatement works in towns along river Ganga and sewage treatment capacity of 1091 million litres per day (mld) has been created. National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) has been set up in February 2009 to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic river basin approach. The Authority has decided that, under Mission Clean Ganga, it will be ensured that by 2020 no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluents flow into Ganga. Projects amounting to nearly Rs. 2600 crore have been sanctioned so far under the NGRBA for development of sewer networks, sewage treatment plants, electric crematoria, community toilets, development of river fronts, etc in the States of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. Besides, a World Bank assisted project for pollution abatement of Ganga for Rs. 7000 crore has been approved for implementation in the Ganga States.

DISCUSSIONS ON CLIMATE CHANGE 8th May, 2012

RSQ 3444

PROF. SAIF-UD-DIN SOZ

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

(a) whether discussions on climate change globally were not yielding any substantial results; (b) whether it was essential to reach a collaborative agreement on this catastrophe; and (c) if so, what concrete steps the Minister would suggest in future discussions to achieve the goal?

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

(a) Climate Change negotiations are conducted at global level under the auspices of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). At the recent Climate Change Conference held in Durban where Seventeenth Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC (COP17) took place, several decisions were taken to address international actions aimed at addressing climate change. The Conference decided to establish the second commitment period of developed country Parties under the Kyoto Protocol, and also agreed to operationalise the institutions, namely the Green Climate Fund, the Adaptation Committee and the Technology Mechanism.

The Durban Conference also decided to launch a process to develop a protocol, another instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention applicable to all Parties. The process under the Durban Platform will be completed by 2015 with a view to enable the agreed arrangements to be implemented from 2020.

(b) & (c) India is willing to play a constructive role in negotiations and advance international actions on the basis of the principles of equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibility (CBDR) as enshrined in the UNFCCC.

ENVIRONMENTAL OFFENDERS IN THE NORTH EASTERN REGION 15th May, 2012

RSQ *545

SHRI KUMAR DEEPAK DAS

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

(a) the details of environmental offenders in the North Eastern Region for the last three years; (b) the details of the pending cases against environmental offenders in the region and the action taken against them; and (c) the present status of the constitution of National Environment Protection Authority?

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) and (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.545 for reply on 15.5.2012 raised by Shri Kumar Deepak Das regarding Environmental offenders in the North Eastern Region.

(a) As per the information received from the North-Eastern (N-E) Regional Office of the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) of the N-E Region, the details of environmental offenders is as follows:

Year Regional Office, MoEF CPCB/SPCBs of the North-Eastern Region No. of violations Details of environmental offenders Details of environmental offenders in the N-E in the N-E Region Region 2009 13 As per Annexure-I As per Annexure-IV 2010 11 As per Annexure-II 2011 10 As per Annexure-III

(b) As per the information received from Tripura SPCB, 2 cases are pending in the court of law in the State with the details given below:

1. M/s Sah Paint Industry for polluting River Haora by throwing paint materials 2. Case for violation of plastic norms.

Action was taken by MoEF and its Regional Office at Shillong against the offending units based on the observed non-compliance of the Stipulated Environmental Clearance conditions by the respective projects including the issue of show cause notices to the violators and issuance of directions under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

CPCB and the concerned SPCBs of the N-E Region have also taken actions under relevant provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 etc. against the violating industrial units.

(c) The proposal to establish a National Environment Assessment and Monitoring Authority (NEAMA) earlier known as National Environment Protection Authority (NEPA) with domain expertise, technological finesse and field outreach in order to strengthen and professionalize the regimes of environment impact assessment and coastal zone management under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 has not yet been finalised.

Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (a) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.545 for reply on 15.5.2012 raised by Shri Kumar Deepak Das regarding Environmental offenders in the North Eastern Region.

Details of offenders during 2009

Sl. No. Name of the Project State 1 M/s ONGC Ltd: Exploratory drilling for Oil & Gas at North Assam Shelf Block in Satelite Area of Assam Geleki in Sivsagar District in Assam. 2 M/s Assam Roofing Ltd: Asbestos Cement Sheet Unit (58,000TP at Bonda, Panikheti. Assam 3 M/s North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited: Kopili HEP Stage –I Extension. Assam 4 M/s North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited: Kopili HEP Stage –II Extension. Assam 5 M/s ONGC Ltd: Exploratory drilling for Oil & Gas at South Assam Shelf Block in Kalyanpur & Assam Borholla Areas in Jorhat District. 6 M/s ONGC Ltd: Assam Renewal project of Expansion of ONGC Oil Field in Sibsagar and Jorhat Assam Districts, Assam. 7 M/s ONGC Ltd: Exploratory drilling for Oil & Gas at South Assam Shelf Block in Babeja, Assam Hazarigaon & Ganakarai Areas in Golaghat District, Assam. 8 M/s ONGC Ltd: Nazira, OIL Duliajan, ONGC Jorhat. Assam 9 M/s Lafarge Umiam Pvt. Ltd: Opencast Limestone Mining project at Phlangkaruh, Nongtrai. Meghalaya 10 M/s Meghalaya Energy Corporation Ltd: Myntdu-Leshka HEP. Meghalaya

11 M/s Departments of Power and Electricity Govt. of Mizoram: Serlui B-HEP. Mizoram 12 M/s ONGC Ltd: Exploratory Drilling at Assam Arakan Fold Belt Block in Konaban-Manikyanagar Tripura Area. 13 M/s ONGC Ltd: Exploratory Drilling for Oil & Gas at Assam Arakan Fold Belt Block in Kunjabam- Tripura Bamutia Area.

Annexure-II referred to in reply to part (a) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.545 for reply on 15.5.2012 raised by Shri Kumar Deepak Das regarding Environmental offenders in the North Eastern Region.

Details of offenders during 2010

Sl. No. Name of the Project State 1 M/s Hindustan Oil Exploration Company: Oil and gas exploratory drilling at On-Shore block AAP- Assam ON-94/1 in Distt. Tinsukia in Assam. 2 M/s North Eastern Coalfields Ltd: Re-opening of Tikak Opencast Mines (Coal) Assam. Assam 3 M/s Hills Cement Co. Ltd: Cement Plant (200 TPD) at 15th Mile, G.S. Road, NH-40, Village Assam Byrnihat, Taluk Sonapur, District Kamrup, Assam. 4 M/s Hill Cements Company Limited: Integrated Cement Plant (Cement 3,000 TPD, Clinker 2,500 Meghalaya TPD) and Coal Based Captive Thermal Power Plant (10 MW) at Village Mynkre, P.O. Khliehriat, District Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. 5 M/s Meghalaya Cements Ltd: Expansion of Cement Plant (from 900 TPD to 2600 TPD) and Captive Meghalaya Power Plant (18 MW) at Thangskai, District Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. 6 M/s JUD Cement Pvt. Ltd: Integrated 900 TPD Cement Plant along with 10 MW Captive Power Plant Meghalaya at Wahiajer, District Jaintia Hills Meghalaya. 7 M/s Amrit Cement Industries Ltd: Cement Plant (Clinker 1.42 MTPA and Cement 1.5 MTPA) along Meghalaya with Captive Power Plant (25 MW) near Village Umlaper, District Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. 8 M/s Dharampal Premchand Ltd: Steel Plant (Cold rolled Products, 1.5 LTPA, and Galvanized Sheet / Tripura Strips, 0.5 LTPA) along with gas based captive power plant (3.6 MW) at Bodhjunganagar Industrial Growth Centre, Bodhjunganagar, R.K. Nagar, Agartala, Tripura West. 9 M/s ONGC Ltd: Onshore Exploratory drilling for 67 wells for Oil and Gas in Agartala Dome– Tripura Baramura-Khowai-Kalyanpur-Kunjaban-Gojolia-Teliamura-Sundalbari-Sonamura-Konaban- Manikyanagar-Tichna Areas District West & South. 10 M/s Air Port Authority of India: Airport Project at Pakyong, Sikkim. Sikkim 11 M/s SNEHA Kinetic Power projects Ltd: Dikchu Hydro-electric Project (96 MW). Sikkim

Annexure-III referred to in reply to part (a) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.545 for reply on 15.5.2012 raised by Shri Kumar Deepak Das regarding Environmental offenders in the North Eastern Region.

Details of offenders during 2011

Sl. No. Name of the Project State 1 M/s NHAI Ltd: NHDP project for 4/6 laning from km 163.895 to km 231.00 of Khanapara, Guwahati Assam Road Junction to Dharamtul of NH-37 and km 5.000 to 38.000 of Nagaon Doboka Section of NH-36 in Assam. 2 M/s Radiant Manufacturers Pvt. Ltd: Distillery Unit (Grain Based; 45 KLPD) at Khatkhati, Block Assam Bokajan, District Karbi Anglong, Assam.

3 M/s Guwahati Waste Management Company Pvt. Limited: Development of Integrated Municipal Solid Assam Waste Management Site at Boragaon, Guwahati, Assam. 4 M/s NaftoGaz India Pvt. Ltd: Exploratory drilling in block AA-ONN-2004/4 in Assam. Assam 5 M/s Oil India Ltd: Exploratory drilling (4 no. of wells) in Amguri Block AA-ONN-2004/1 in Sivasagar Assam and Jorhat District, Assam. 6 M/s Oil India Limited (OIL): Setting up of two Development Projects viz. Oil Collecting Station (OCS) Assam a Barekuri, Assam. 7 M/s Yaswi Commercial: Cement Grinding Unit (500 TPD) along with Captive Power Plant (4 MW) at Assam Dag No. 34 & 44, Village Koraibari, Changsari, District Kamrup, Assam. 8 M/s Guwahati Metropolitan Developmet Authority: Passenger Ropeway between South Bank and North Assam Bank of via Umananda Island at Guwahati, Assam. 9 M/S RDB Industries: Construction of Residential Complex Regent Paradise at Bishnuravapath, Assam Ghoramara, Bhetapara, Barsojai, Guwahati, Assam. 10 National Highway Authority of India: Four lane divided carriageway configuration from Jorabad – Meghalaya Shillong Section (from km 0.000 to 61.8000 km) in Meghalaya State.

Annexure-IV referred to in reply to part (a) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.545 for reply on 15.5.2012 raised by Shri Kumar Deepak Das regarding Environmental offenders in the North Eastern Region.

Details of Environmental Offenders in the North-Eastern Region for the last 3 years as per the information received from CPCB/SPCBs

2009: S.No. Name of the Unit Type of Industry State

1. Geo Enpro Petroleum Limited, Kharsang Oil Field Oil and Gas Exploration and Arunachal Pradesh Drilling 2. Cipla Limited, Village Kumrek, Ranghpoh, East Sikkim- Pharmaceutical formulation Sikkim 737136 3. Oil India Limited, Duliajan, Assam Oil and Gas Exploration and Assam Drilling 4. Rice Mill of Sri Phanindra Das, S/o LateJogendra Das, Rice Mill Tripura Village Ratiabari, P.O. Pabiacherra, Kumarghat 5. Poultry Farm of Sri Prabir Modak, S/o Sri Kumud Modak, Poultry Farm Tripura South Indranagar, Agartala 6. M/s Mahalaxmi Alluminium Industries, Prop; Sri Gopal Aluminium utensils Tripura Debnath, College Road, Shibnagar, Agartala 7. M/s Biswakarma Steel Factory, Prop: Sri Amar Ch. Saha, Steel Manufacturing Unit Tripura Khayerpur, Trinath, West Tripura

2010: S.No. Name of the Unit Type of Industry State

1. Virgo Cement Limited, Damas, Meghalaya Cement Meghalaya 2. Yuksom Breweries Limited, Malli Bazar, South Sikkim Brewery Sikkim 737128 3. Sheela Foam Pvt. Limited, Ranghpoh, East Sikkim Industrial Foam Manufacturing Sikkim 737136 4. Cachar Paper Mill, Panchgram, Assam Pulp and Paper Unit Assam 5. Cement Corporation of India Limited, Bokajan, Assam Cement Assam 6. Tirupati Plywood Industries, Makum Pathar, Margarita, Plywood Assam Assam 7. Gattani Industries, Chinamara, Jorhat, Assam Plywood Assam 8. DG Set of Sri Biswajit Banik, Ramnagar Road No.4, DG Set Tripura Agartala, West Tripura

2011: S.No. Name of the Unit Type of Industry State

1. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, Nazira, Assam 785685 Oil and Gas Exploration and Drilling Assam 2. Guwahati Refinery, Noonmati, Guwahati, Assam Petroleum Refinery Assam 3. J. K. Avtar Pvt. Ltd., 15 Mile, G. S. Road, Byrnihat, Cement Manufacturing Unit Assam Assam 4. Cashew Processing Unit of NERAMAC Ltd., A.D. Nagar Cashew Processing Tripura Industrial Growth Centre, West Tripura 5. M/s Debnath Welding House, Prop: Sri Sumil Debnath, Steel Factory Tripura Baldakhal, P.O. West Champamura, Agartala, West Tripura 6. ONGC Oil and Gas Exploration and Drilling Mizorum

IMPACT OF INCREASED LEVEL OF AIR POLLUTION ON HUMAN HEALTH IN DELHI 15th May, 2012

RSQ *553

SHRI MOTILAL VORA

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

(a) whether Government has taken note of the Centre for Science and Environment’s report, according to which the increasing level of air pollution in Delhi is causing several health problems, including cancer, heart attack and respiratory diseases; (b) whether according to the report, every year 3,000 deaths are caused in Delhi due to air pollution; (c) whether one of the main reasons of high level of pollution in Delhi is the ever rising number of vehicles; (d) if so, the reaction of Government thereto; and (e) the steps being taken by Government to check pollution in Delhi?

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. 553 FOR 15.05.2012 REGARDING IMPACT OF INCREASED LEVEL OF AIR POLLUTION ON HUMAN HEALTH IN DELHI RAISED BY SHRI MOTILAL VORA.

(a) & (b) Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), a non-governmental organization,has compiled observations of various institutions with regard to health impacts studies in India and published a report titled ‘Mobility Crisis Agenda for action 2010’. According 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 confirm these figures.

(c) to (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 of 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 & 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.

POLLUTION OF YAMUNA RIVER 15th May, 2012

RSQ *555

SHRI PANKAJ BORA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that as per the latest report of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Yamuna water is full of excreta and resembles drain water; (b) if so, the effective measures taken to save water of Yamuna from stinking in due course; (c) whether the Central Government, in collaboration with the concerned State Governments, has been able to detect the sources making Yamuna water filthy; (d) whether Government has taken action against those who are allowing to flow untreated sewage and effluents in Yamuna; 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 parts (a) to (e) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 555 on “Pollution of Yamuna River” raised by Shri Pankaj Bora, to be answered on 15.05.2012.

(a) As per the analysis of the regular monitoring undertaken by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), river water quality of Yamuna River deteriorates especially in its stretch between Wazirabad barrage at Delhi till its confluence with Chambal River in Uttar Pradesh (U.P.). High values of Biochemical Oxygen Demand, high count of Total and Faecal Coliform along with no or very low Dissolved Oxygen level in the river water, indicate the wastewater discharges in the river Yamuna, predominantly from domestic sources. The water quality of the river shows improvement only during monsoon period.

(b) To supplement the efforts of State Governments 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 (JICA) in a phased manner. YAP-I, which commenced in April, 1993 , was completed in Feb, 2003 at a total cost of Rs. 682 crore covering various pollution abatement works, including creation of Sewage

Treatment capacity of 753.25 million litres per day (mld). YAP-II was approved in 2003 at an estimated cost of Rs. 624 crores with major items of work such as rehabilitation of sewerage network and Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and construction of new STPs. Further, under YAP-III project for Delhi with an estimated cost of Rs. 1656 crores has been approved.

(c) Central Pollution Control Board has carried out survey of river Yamuna and identified the major point sources which deteriorate the water quality of river. These sources are located in various urban centers which include Yamuna Nagar, Karnal, Panipat, Sonepat, NCT of Delhi, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Ghaziabad, Palwal, Vrindavan, Mathura and Agra. In addition, there is contribution to pollution also from the non-point sources such as from bathing ghats, open defecation and runoff from catchment areas.

(d) & (e) The Central Pollution Control Board and the concerned State Pollution Control Boards initiate action against the non-complying units under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR ROAD CONSTRUCTION 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4196

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA

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

(a) whether the Union Government has received a proposal for diversion of land in Kutch Desert Sanctuary and Wild Ass Sanctuary, Gujarat for construction of a road from Gadhuli Santalpur; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether this road is important from view point of national strategy and security; and (d) if so, by when it will obtain permission of National Board of Wild Life?

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

(a), (b), (c) and (d) 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 border roads to meet security 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 wherein it was decided to carry out a site inspection before taking a view in the matter. The site inspection report has since been received in the Ministry and would be placed before the Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife for its consideration. However, no specific time can be attributed for this.

RECLAMATION OF LAND FROM SEA FOR MUMBAI CITY 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4197

SHRI SANJAY RAUT SHRI ANIL DESAI

Will the Minister of Environment and Forests be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that in South Mumbai, a part of the Arabian Sea is being reclaimed for providing civic amenities to the public;

(b) if so, whether the Ministry has given its approval to such a project; and (c) 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 received the proposal for reclamation of Arabian Sea, in South Mumbai, for providing civic amenities to the public.

FALLING POPULATION OF TIGERS AND PEACOCKS IN THE COUNTRY 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4198

SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI:

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

(a) the rates at which population of our national animal, tiger, and the national bird peacock are falling in the country; (b) the number of tigers and peacocks, died/killed during 2011; (c) the pockets in the Indian States where they are found and well-preserved; and (d) the steps taken by Government to conserve, preserve and nurture these species?

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

(a) The country level tiger population, estimated 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 all India estimation (2010), as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. There are no specific data to indicate that population of peacock is decreasing.

(b) The number of tiger deaths during 2011, as reported by States, are at Annexure-I. The information relating to peacock mortality is not compiled at country level by the Ministry.

(c) The tiger population, by and large, in tiger reserves and protected areas of tiger States are viable, while requiring ongoing conservation efforts, as revealed in the recent (2010) All India Tiger Estimation using the refined methodology. The list of Tiger Reserves / project tiger areas are at Annexure-II. The peacock has a wide distribution in our country.

(d) The milestone initiatives taken by the Government to protect and foster tiger conservation, interalia, including other wild animals are at Annexure-III.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4198 ON FALLING POPULATION OF TIGERS AND PEACOCKS IN THE COUNTRY ON 15.05.2012.

Number of tiger death during 2011 (as reported by States)

Year Tiger 2011 56*

* Excludes seizure of one old trophy during the year

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4198 ON FALLING POPULATION OF TIGERS AND PEACOCKS IN THE COUNTRY ON 15.05.2012.

List of Tiger Reserves in India

Sl. No. Year of creation Name of Tiger Reserve State 1 1973-74 Bandipur Karnataka 2 1973-74 Corbett Uttarakhand 3 1973-74 Kanha Madhya Pradesh 4 1973-74 Manas Assam 5 1973-74 Melghat Maharashtra 6 1973-74 Palamau Jharkhand 7 1973-74 Ranthambore Rajasthan 8 1973-74 Similipal Orissa 9 1973-74 Sunderbans West Bengal 10 1978-79 Kerala 11 1978-79 Sariska Rajasthan 12 1982-83 Buxa West Bengal 13 1982-83 Indravati Chhattisgarh 14 1982-83 Nagarjunsagar Andhra Pradesh 15 1982-83 Namdapha Arunachal Pradesh 16 1987-88 Dudhwa Uttar Pradesh 17 1988-89 Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tamil Nadu 18 1989-90 Valmiki Bihar 19 1992-93 Pench Madhya Pradesh 20 1993-94 Tadoba-Andhari Maharashtra 21 1993-94 Bandhavgarh Madhya Pradesh 22 1994-95 Panna Madhya Pradesh 23 1994-95 Dampa Mizoram 24 1998-99 Bhadra Karnataka 25 1998-99 Pench Maharashtra 26 1999-2000 Pakke Arunachal Pradesh 27 1999-2000 Nameri Assam 28 1999-2000 Satpura Madhya Pradesh 29 2008-2009 Anamalai Tamil Nadu 30 2008-2009 Udanti-Sitanadi Chattisgarh 31 2008-2009 Satkosia Orissa 32 2008-2009 Kaziranga Assam 33 2008-2009 Achanakmar Chattisgarh 34 2008-2009 Dandeli-Anshi Karnataka 35 2008-2009 Sanjay-Dubri Madhya Pradesh 36 2008-2009 Mudumalai Tamil Nadu 37 2008-2009 Nagarahole Karnataka 38 2008-2009 Parambikulam Kerala 39 2009-2010 Sahyadri Maharashtra 40 2011-2012 Biligiri Ranganatha Temple Karnataka 41. 2012-2013 Kawal Andhra Pradesh

ANNEXURE-III REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4198 ON FALLING POPULATION OF TIGERS AND PEACOCKS IN THE COUNTRY ON 15.05.2012.

Milestone initiatives taken by the Government to protect and foster tiger conservation, interalia, including other wild animals

Legal steps

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

2. Enhancement of punishment in cases of offence relating to a tiger reserve or its core area.

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 / home guards, apart from workforce comprising of local people, in addition to strengthening of communication / wireless facilities.

4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from 4.09.2006, 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 6.6.2007 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 (Orissa) and 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. Besides, the States 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 States for strengthening tiger conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, interalia, include funding support to States for enhanced village relocation/rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh/family to Rs. 10 lakhs/family), rehabilitation/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/assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. An area of 33472.01 sq. km. has been notified by 16 Tiger States (out of 17) as core or critical tiger habitat under section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006 (Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal). The State of Bihar has taken a decision for notifying the core or critical tiger habitat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

Financial steps

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

International Cooperation

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

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

13. 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 directions 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.

14. Based on India’s strong intervention during the 58th meeting of the Standing Committee of the CITES at Geneva from 6th to 10th July, 2009, the CITES Secretariat has issued a notification to Parties to submit reports relating to compliance of Decisions 14.69 and 14.65 within 90 days with effect from 20.10.2009 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.). Reintroduction of Tigers

15. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers / tigresses have been done.

16. 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)

17. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of 29.2.2008, interalia, 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, the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. Rs. 93 lakhs each has been released to Corbett, Ranthambhore & Dudhwa Tiger Reserve for creation of STPF during 2008-09. Since then, the guidelines of the STPF have been revised for deploying forest personnel in place of Police as an option-II, with scope for involving local people like the Van Gujjars. During the year 2011-12, an amount of Rs. 3 crores has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for raising, arming and deploying the STPF.

18. 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

1. Implementing a tripartite MOU with tiger States, linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives.

2. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

4. 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.

5. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching ‘M-STrIPES’ for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

6. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

7. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

8. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves.

9. 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.

10. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

11. Increase in the allocation for Project Tiger with additional components.

12. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas.

13. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi, a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity / tiger conservation.

14. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and Guwahati.

15. Launching of Phase-IV tiger reserve level monitoring.

16. A protocol on conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sundarban signed between India and Bangladesh in September, 2011.

PROTECTION OF WILD ANIMALS IN THE COUNTRY 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4199

SHRI FAGGAN SINGH KULASTE

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

(a) whether Government has formulated/proposes to formulate any new action plan for development of National Parks for protection of wild animals in the country; (b) whether it is also a fact that there is a scheme to relocate the villages around these parks by declaring them as buffer zones; and (c) if so, the number of such National Parks in the country for which Government has formulated such scheme?

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

(a) The Central Government is already implementing Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz., ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’, ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ wherein technical and financial assistance is provided to the State/Union Territory Governments for management of Protected Areas including National Parks. Presently, there is no proposal to formulate any new scheme for development of National Parks for protection of wild animals in the country. (b) There is no such scheme for relocation of villages around parks by declaring them as buffer zones.

(c) Does not arise.

NEGOTIATIONS ON CLIMATE CHANGE 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4200

SHRI

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

(a) how far the developing countries of Asia and Africa have been benefited by the current ongoing negotiations on climate change; (b) whether the Prime Minister has urged the Asian and African nations to get the best out of these negotiations; and (c) if so, the strategy proposed to be adopted for Rio+20 Conference?

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

(a) International negotiations on Climate Change under the aegis of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) are aimed at advancing global actions to stabilise climate and address the urgent mitigation and adaptation needs of developing countries including those from Asia and Africa. Parties to the UNFCCC are obliged to take adaptation and mitigation of climate change on the basis of the principles of equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibility (CBDR). In furtherance of this principle, the recently held Climate Change Talks in Durban in December 2011 have helped operationalise the Green Climate Fund, the Adaptation

Committee and the Technology Mechanism which would facilitate support to developing countries in terms of finance and technology for effective mitigation and adaptation actions.

(b) During his inaugural address at the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Afro-Asian Rural Development Programme held in Delhi on March 5, 2012, the Prime Minister urged Asian and African countries to work jointly to build a favorable international regime that enables access to funds and green technologies for rural growth. He stressed on the need to enhance international cooperation with a view to secure best outcomes at the climate change negotiations and the forthcoming Rio+20 Conference.

(c) India’s approach to Rio+20 Conference is guided by the Rio Principles, in particular the principles of equity and CBDR. India also coordinates its approach on the relevant issues with the like minded developing country members from Group of 77 and China including those from Asia and Africa.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR SAPALI DAM IN MAHARASHTRA 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4201

SHRI AVINASH PANDE

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

(a) the status of the environmental clearance for Sapali Dam project proposal submitted by the State Government of Maharashtra; and (b) how much time is expected by Government to complete the entire procedure?

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

(a) & (b) The environmental clearance for the Upper Penganga Irrigation Project Stage-II (Sapli Dam) of Government of Maharashtra has been recommended by the Expert Appraisal Committee for River Valley and Hydro Power Projects. A representation against the Project has been received in the Ministry, clarification pertaining to which have been received recently from the Government of Maharashtra.

CONNECTING ALL THE WILD LIFE SANCTUARIES IN THE COUNTRY 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4202

SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR

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

(a) whether Government proposes to connect all the Wild Life Sanctuaries in the country through some modern techniques based on technology; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether Government is contemplating to use any new technique to determine the exact number of animals in these Sanctuaries?

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

(a) Presently, there is no proposal with the Ministry of Environment and Forests to connect all the Wildlife Sanctuaries in the country through modern technology based techniques.

(b) Does not arise.

(c) Census of major wild animals is carried out by the respective State/Union Territory Governments periodically using the available methodology. However, there is no specific proposal to use new technology to determine the exact number of animals in the Wildlife Sanctuaries.

PROPOSALS UNDER NATIONAL LAKE CONSERVATION PLAN 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4203

SHRI

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

(a) the number of proposals submitted by Odisha under the National Lake Conservation Plan; (b) the status of consideration of each of the proposals; and (c) the time by when the final decision is expected to be taken on such plans?

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

(a) to (c) The Ministry is implementing the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) for conservation and management of polluted and degraded lakes in urban and semi-urban areas of the country, on 70:30 funding pattern through an integrated ecosystem approach.

For Odisha, the Ministry has sanctioned a project on ‘Conservation and Management of Bindusagar lake’ in Bhubaneshwar under NLCP at a cost of Rs.3.36 crore. Bhubaneshwar Municipal Corporation is implementing agency for the project. No other Detailed Project Report is received by this Ministry from the State Government.

LEASING OF FOREST LAND FOR MINING ACTIVITIES 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4204.

DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY

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

(a) whether Government has leased the forest land for mining activities in the country; (b) if so, the details of the areas of forest land so leased out for mining along with the terms and conditions, State-wise; (c) whether mining agencies are following the terms and conditions satisfactorily; (d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor; and (e) the steps taken by Government in this regard?

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

(a) & (b) Use of forest land for non-forest purpose including mining requires prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. State/ UT-wise details of the approvals accorded for diversion of forest land for mining projects along with General conditions and standards conditions applicable to mining projects stipulated in the approvals accorded under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for mining projects is annexed. Apart from the general conditions and standard conditions applicable to mining projects, Central Government after examination of the proposals seeking its prior approval under the afore-mentioned Act for mining projects also stipulates project specific conditions to mitigate certain project specific impact(s) of such mining projects.

(c) to (e) The Regional Offices of the Ministry of Environment and Forests located at Chandigarh, Lucknow, Bhubaneswar, Shillong, Bhopal and Bangalore monitor compliance to conditions stipulated in the approvals accorded under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose, including mining projects. The Ministry of Environment and Forests takes appropriate action, in accordance with law, as and when non-compliance to conditions stipulated in the approvals accorded under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose including mining projects are brought to its notice by its Regional Offices or any other persons/ organizations.

Annexure referred to in answer to parts (a) and (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 4204 on ‘Leasing of forest land for mining activities’ asked by Dr. T. Subbarami Reddy due for reply on 15.05.2012

C. State/ UT-wise details of the approvals (in-principle and final) accorded under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for mining projects from the date it came into force on 25.10.1980 till 09.05.2012

Total Final Approval In-principle approval (In-principle + final) S. No. States No. of Area No. of Area No. of Area Diverted proposals Diverted proposal Diverted proposals (in ha) (in ha) s (in ha) 1 Andaman & Nicobar 8 19.59 0 0 8 19.59 Islands 2 Andhra Pradesh 177 17,021.36 37 4,341.34 214 21,362.70 3 Arunachal Pradesh 13 99.275 3 4.196 16 103.471 4 Assam 78 155.781 6 13.095 84 168.876 5 Bihar 9 417.567 1 0.607 10 418.174 6 Chandigarh 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 Chhattishgarh 102 18,777.07 31 11,157.69 133 29,934.76 8 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 Daman & Diu 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 Delhi 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 Goa 48 1,797.65 5 147.007 53 1,944.65 12 Gujarat 53 9,792.28 2 134.83 55 9,927.11 13 Haryana 1 0.145 0 0 1 0.145 14 Himachal Pradesh 55 959.831 8 701.147 63 1,660.98 15 Jharkhand 104 11,240.53 31 4,349.13 135 15,589.66 16 Karnataka 141 11,225.21 28 834.506 169 12,059.72 17 Kerala 1 29.196 0 0 1 29.196 18 Lakshadweep 0 0 0 0 0 0 19 Madhya Pradesh 158 12,188.39 27 3,908.56 185 16,096.95 20 Maharashtra 105 3,319.59 15 495.479 120 3,815.07 21 Manipur 0 0 0 0 0 0 22 Meghalaya 1 116.589 0 0 1 116.589 23 Mizoram 0 0 0 0 0 0 24 Nagaland 0 0 0 0 0 0 25 Odisha 154 16,759.88 33 5,069.30 187 21,829.18 26 Puducherry 0 0 0 0 0 0 27 Punjab 1 0.002 0 0 1 0.002 28 Rajasthan 144 5,507.95 21 1,130.91 165 6,638.86 29 Sikkim 1 0.046 0 0 1 0.046 30 Tamil Nadu 29 375.654 2 4.683 31 380.336 31 Tripura 12 19.018 6 12.86 18 31.878 32 Uttar Pradesh 5 2,006.44 0 0 5 2,006.44 33 Uttarakhand 16 249.654 4 24.52 20 274.174 34 West Bengal 5 276.91 1 4.89 6 281.8 Total 1,421 112,355.59 261 32,334.76 1,682 1,44,690.35

Note: The statement does not include information for Jammu & Kashmir as the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 do not extend to Jammu & Kashmir.

D. General Conditions and Standard Conditions Applicable to Mining Projects Stipulated in the Approvals Accorded by the Central Government Under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for Diversion of Forest Land for Mining Projects 1. Legal status of forest land to remain unchanged. 2. Compensatory afforestation as per guidelines. 3. Transfer and mutation of non-forest land identified to raise compensatory afforestation in favour of Forest Department, if applicable.

4. Notification of non-forest land identified to raise compensatory afforestation as Reserved Forests/Protected Forest under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 or local forest Act. 5. Payment of Net Present Value (NPV) at the applicable rates. 6. Undertaking to pay additional amount of NPV, if so determined by the Hon’ble Supreme Court. 7. Transfer of funds realized from the user agency to ad-hoc Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA). 8. User Agency to provide alternate fuel to the labourers and the staff working at the site so as to avoid any damage & pressure on adjacent forest areas. 9. The forest land shall not be used for any purpose other than that specified in the proposal. 10. Demarcation of lease area to be done on the ground at project cost using four feet high reinforced cement concrete pillars with serial numbers, forward & back bearings, distance from pillar to pillar and DGPS coordinates. 11. Settlement of Rights, if any, in accordance with the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. 12. Rehabilitation of Project affected families, if any. 13. Environmental clearance, if required. 14. Submission of annual self-monitoring report on compliance to conditions stipulated in the approval. 15. The User Agency and the State Government to ensure compliance to provisions of the all Acts, Rules, Regulations and Guidelines, for the time being in force, as applicable to the project. 16. Phased reclamation of mined area. 17. Safety zone area, its afforestation and fencing. 18. Afforestation on one and half times degraded forest land in lieu of the area used for safety zone. 19. In case of underground mines, areas on surface to be fencing and afforested. 20. Gap planting and soil & moisture conservation activities to restock and rejuvenate the degraded open forests (having crown density less than 0.40), if any, located in the area within 100 m. from outer perimeter of the mining lease; 21. De-silting of the village tanks and other water bodies located within five kilometers from the mine lease boundary so as to mitigate the impact of siltation of such tanks/water bodies, whenever required;

22. Period of approval to be co-terminus with period of mining lease to be sanctioned in accordance with the provisions of the Mines and Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

23. Following activities to be undertaken by the User Agency at the project cost:

(a) A plan containing appropriate mitigative measures to minimize soil erosion and choking of streams shall be prepared and implemented; (b) Planting of adequate drought hardy plant species and sowing of seeds in the appropriate area within the mining lease to arrest soil erosion; (c) Construction of check dams, retention /toe walls to arrest sliding down of the excavated material along the contour; (d) Stabilize the overburden dumps by appropriate grading/benching so as to ensure that that angles of repose at any given place is less than 28o; and (e) Strict adherence to the prescribed top soil management.

LEVY OF CESS FOR NATIONAL CLEAN ENERGY FUND 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4205

SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government is considering a proposal to levy a cess on coal to generate resources for the National Clean Energy Fund; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has conducted any study to assess the impact of such a cess; (d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) & (b) The Government has considered a proposal of a clean energy cess of Rs. 50 per tonne is applicable on coal produced in India and imported coal with effect from 1st July 2010. Government has announced that the proceeds of the cess will build the corpus of National Clean Energy Fund (NCEF). The National Clean Energy Fund will be used for funding research and innovative projects in clean energy technologies. An Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG) has been constituted by the Ministry of Finance to draw guidelines for the use of the Fund.

(c) to (e) No study has been conducted to assess the impact of such a cess.

DRINKING WATER SUPPLY FROM WATER BODIES HAVING HOTELS IN RAJASTHAN 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4206

DR. PRABHA THAKUR

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

(a) the number of hotels situated in reservoirs or lakes in Rajasthan; (b) the number of such reservoirs or lakes where hotels are situated and from where water is distributed for drinking purposes to the population of that area; (c) whether there is any appropriate drainage arrangement for sewage of dirty and polluted water of toilets etc. of these hotels out of these water bodies; (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) As per information available, Hotel Lake Palace and Jagmandir Restaurant are situated in Pichola lake and Silver Shadow Export Pvt. Ltd. in Jaisamand Lake in Udaipur. Nahargarh Palace is situated in Lake Nahargarh in Chittorgarh. The water from Pichola and Jaisamand lakes is supplied to public for drinking purpose.

(c) to (e) It is reported that all these hotels have drainage arrangement for the toilets. Hotel Lake Palace, Jagmandir Restaurant and Silver Shadow Export Pvt. Ltd have provided sewage treatment plants. After treatment, treated waste water is used for plantation and excess if any, is discharged into the municipal sewers. For Nahargarh, septic tank and up-flow filter have been provided for treatment of waste water, which is pumped to the shore and used for plantation on its own land, and no waste water is discharged into the lake.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO POWER PLANTS 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4207

SHRI MOTILAL VORA

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

(a) the number of power plants accorded environmental clearance by the end of 31 December, 2011 and the quantum of installed capacity of these plants; (b) the details thereof, State-wise; (c) the number of coal-based and gas-based plants out of total power plants cleared separately; and

(d) the number of proposals regarding setting up of power plants pending before the Ministry and their total power generation capacity in megawatts?

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

(a) & (b) A total of 127 coal and gas based thermal power plants were accorded environmental clearances during the last three years. The total capacity of these 127 power plants is 1,30,623.20 MW. The state-wise details are given at Annexure-I and Annexure-II.

(c) Out of the 127 power plants accorded environmental clearances in the last three years, 105 are coal based and 22 are gas based power plants.

(d) A total of 31 coal and gas thermal power plants with a total generation capacity of 38,997 MW are pending with the Ministry for environmental clearance as on 30.04.2012.

Annexure-I

NUMBERS OF COAL BASED THERMAL POWER PROJECTS GRANTED ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE DURING 2009 TO 2011, YEAR-WISE, AND STATE-WISE.

S. N State Name 2009 2010 2011 Total 1 Arunachal Pradesh 0 2 Assam 0 3 Andhra Pradesh 8 4 0 12 4 Bihar 1 1 1 3 5 Chhattisgarh 3 7 4 14 6 Delhi 0 0 7 Goa 1 1 8 Gujarat 1 4 3 8 9 Haryana 0 10 Himachal Pradesh 0 11 Jammu & Kashmir 0 12 Jharkhand 2 1 3 6 13 Karnataka 3 0 3 14 Kerala 0 15 Madhya Pradesh 3 5 0 8 16 Maharashtra 5 6 3 14 17 Manipur 0 18 Meghalaya 1 1 19 Mizoram 0 20 Orissa 2 4 2 8 21 Punjab 0 22 Rajasthan 3 1 1 5 23 Sikkim 24 Tamil-Nadu 3 6 6 15 25 Tripura 0 26 Uttarakhand 0 0 0 27 Uttar Pradesh 4 2 6 28 West Bengal 1 1 Total 39 39 27 105

Annexure-II

NUMBER OF GAS BASED POWER PROJECTS GRANTED ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE DURING 2009 TO 2011, YEAR-WISE, CAPACITY-WISE AND STATE-WISE.

S.N State Name 2009 2010 2011 Total 1 Arunachal Pradesh 2 Assam 3 Andhra Pradesh 5 1 6 4 Bihar 5 Chhattisgarh 6 Delhi 1 1 7 Goa 8 Gujarat 2 3 5 9 Haryana 10 Himachal Pradesh 11 Jammu & Kashmir

12 Jharkhand 13 Karnataka 1 1 14 Kerala 15 Madhya Pradesh 1 1 16 Maharashtra 3 3 17 Manipur 18 Meghalaya 19 Mizoram 20 Orissa 21 Punjab 22 Rajasthan 23 Sikkim 24 Tamil-Nadu 1 1 25 Tripura 26 Uttarakhand 1 3 4

27 Uttar Pradesh 28 West Bengal Total - 9 13 22

HARMFUL EFFECTS OF MERCURY EMISSION 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4208

PROF. SAIF-UD-DIN SOZ

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

(a) whether emissions of mercury is harmful to human life; (b) the level of mercury emissions in the country; (c) whether any reports of harmful effects of mercury are available with the Ministry; and (d) the steps taken by the Ministry by way of remedial action?

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

(a) to (d) Mercury could be harmful to human health depending on its chemical form, dose, duration and route of exposure. Mercury is not included in the notified ambient air quality standards which are monitored. Caustic soda manufacturing industries had been directed to switch over from mercury cell to membrane cell technology. Ministry of Environment and Forests had constituted a Task Force to evolve a policy on “Environmentally Sound Management of mercury in Fluorescent Lamps”. A Technical Committee, constituted by this Task Force, had prepared “Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Mercury Management in Fluorescent Lamps Sector”. These guidelines prescribe the best practices at various levels, such as at manufacturer’s level and include aspects relate to mercury consumption, process technology, raw mercury distillation, on-site storage, treatment, recycling and disposal of mercury bearing wastes, mercury spill management. The best practices at consumer’s level include handling of used/broken lamps, consumer awareness pertaining to collection, transport, treatment and disposal of used fluorescent lamps. Ministry of Environment and Forests and Central Pollution Control Board have written to all the State Governments and Union Territories to encourage establishment of recycling units so that the fused Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) and Fluorescent Tube lights (FTLs) are properly collected and the mercury is recovered and recycled scientifically and safely.

DEATHS OF TIGERS IN DIFFERENT SANCTUARIES 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4209

SHRI THAAWAR CHAND GEHLOT:

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

(a) the number of tigers killed in different sanctuaries of the country, during the last three years along with reasons therefor and the details thereof, sanctuary-wise; (b) the number of tigers died outside the sanctuaries during said period along with reasons thereof, State-wise, year-wise; and (c) the steps taken so far, by Government to prevent the deaths of tigers?

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

(a) & (b) Details of tiger mortality (due to natural and other causes / poaching) inside and outside Tiger Reserves during the last three years, as reported by States are at Annexures-I & II respectively.

(c) The milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection and conservation of tigers are at Annexure-III.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4209 ON DEATHS OF TIGERS IN DIFFERENT SANCTUARIES ON 15.05.2012.

Details of tiger mortality inside tiger reserves during the last three years and the current year (as reported by the States)

2009 2010 2011 2012 Natural Natural Natural Natural Name of & & & & Tiger Other Other Other Other S.No. Reserve State Causes Poaching Causes Poaching Causes Poaching Causes Poaching 1 Kaziranga Assam 9 0 6 0 3 1 2 0 2 Valmiki Bihar 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 Nagarhole Karnataka 4 2 0 0 1 2 2 0 4 Bandipur Karnataka 4 0 2 2 1 0 1 0 5 Bhadra Karnataka 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 BRT Karnataka 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 7 Periyar Kerala 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 Kanha Madhya 8 Pradesh 7 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 Pench Madhya 9 Pradesh 3 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 Bandhavgarh Madhya 10 Pradesh 1 3 1 1 3 0 1 0 Satpuda Madhya 11 Pradesh 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 12 Melghat Maharashtra 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Tadoba- Maharashtra 13 Andhari 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 14 Similipal Odisha 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 15 Sariska Rajasthan 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 16 Ranthambhore Rajasthan 3 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 17 Anamalai Tamil Nadu 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 18 Mudumalai Tamil Nadu 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 19 Corbett Uttarakhand 6 0 2 0 7 1 3 0 Dudhwa Uttar 20 Pradesh 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 West 21 Bengal 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 Total 40 6 18 11 25 6 12 2

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4209 ON DEATHS OF TIGERS IN DIFFERENT SANCTUARIES ON 15.05.2012.

Details of tiger mortality outside tiger reserves during the last three years and the current year (as reported by the States)

2009 2010 2011 2012 Natural & Natural & Natural & Natural & Other Other Other Other S.No. State Causes Poaching Causes Poaching Causes Poaching Causes Poaching Andhra 1 Pradesh 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 Assam 0 1 0 2 0 2 1 1 3 Bihar 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 Chattisgarh 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 1

5 Delhi 0 2 0 0 0 0# 0 0 6 Goa 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 Karnataka 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 3 8 Kerala 1 0 1 2 1 1 0 0 Madhya 9 Pradesh 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 10 Maharashtra 0 3 2 4 1 4 2 2 11 Odisha 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 Rajasthan 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 Tamil Nadu 0 1 1 2 2 0 1 1 14 Uttarakhand 2 1 2 1 8 1 1 1 Uttar 15 Pradesh 2 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 West 16 Bengal 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 5 15 7 17 15 10 6 12 # Excludes 1 old tiger trophy seized

ANNEXURE-III REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4209 ON DEATHS OF TIGERS IN DIFFERENT SANCTUARIES ON 15.05.2012.

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 for providing enabling provisions towards constituting the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau.

2. Enhancement of punishment in cases of offence relating to a tiger reserve or its core area.

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 / home guards, apart from workforce comprising of local people, in addition to strengthening of communication / wireless facilities.

4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from 4.09.2006, 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 6.6.2007 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 (Orissa) and 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. Besides, the States 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 States for strengthening tiger conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, interalia, include funding support to States for enhanced village relocation/rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh/family to Rs. 10 lakhs/family), rehabilitation/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/assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. An area of 33472.01 sq. km. has been notified by 16 Tiger States (out of 17) as core or critical tiger habitat under section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006 (Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal). The State of Bihar has taken a decision for notifying the core or critical tiger habitat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

Financial steps

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

International Cooperation

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

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

13. 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 directions 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.

14. Based on India’s strong intervention during the 58th meeting of the Standing Committee of the CITES at Geneva from 6th to 10th July, 2009, the CITES Secretariat has issued a notification to Parties to submit reports relating to compliance of Decisions 14.69 and 14.65 within 90 days with effect from 20.10.2009 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.).

Reintroduction of Tigers

15. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers / tigresses have been done.

16. 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)

17. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of 29.2.2008, interalia, 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, the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. Rs. 93 lakhs each has been released to Corbett, Ranthambhore & Dudhwa Tiger Reserve for creation of STPF during 2008-09. Since then, the guidelines of the STPF have been revised for deploying forest personnel in place of Police as an option-II, with scope for involving local people like the Van Gujjars. During the year 2011-12, an amount of Rs. 3 crores has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for raising, arming and deploying the STPF.

18. 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

1. Implementing a tripartite MOU with tiger States, linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives.

2. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

4. 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.

5. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching ‘M-STrIPES’ for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

6. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

7. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

8. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves.

9. 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.

10. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

11. Increase in the allocation for Project Tiger with additional components.

12. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas.

13. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi, a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity / tiger conservation.

14. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and Guwahati.

15. Launching of Phase-IV tiger reserve level monitoring.

16. A protocol on conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sundarban signed between India and Bangladesh in September, 2011.

STRENGTHENING OF RESEARCH CAPACITY FOR CLIMATE CHANGE OBSERVATION AND ASSESSMENT 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4210

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) whether the Ministry have any policy to strengthen scientific research capacity and strategic knowledge for climate change observation and assessment during the Twelfth Five Year Plan period; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the budget estimate for that; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) & (b) Planning Commission has approved ‘Climate Change Action Programme’ to be implemented by the Ministry of Environment & Forests during the 12th Five Year Plan. The programme aims inter alia at advancing scientific research into and assessment of the phenomenon of climate change, building an institutional and analytical capacity for research and studies in the area of climate change, and supporting domestic actions to address climate change through specific programmes and actions at the national and state level. The scientific schemes under the programme include National Carbonaceous Aerosols Programme; setting up of Long Term Ecological Observatories for Climate Change Studies; Coordinated Studies on Climate Change for North Eastern Region; and setting up of Centre for Climate Change Studies.

India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) includes National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change which has the objective of strengthening and building research capacity and generating strategic knowledge for climate change. Besides, each of the other 7 (seven) Missions made the NAPCC also have research components.

(c) & (d) The budget for scientific programmes and building institutional capacity for research in the area of Climate Change is provided by the respective Ministries under their respective plans.

The proposed budget allocation for the 12th Five Year Plan period for the National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change is Rs. 1050 Crore.

NATIONAL GANGA RIVER BASIN AUTHORITY 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4211

SHRI M.

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) is not able to hold its regular meetings; (b) whether it is also a fact that in the last three years, the Authority held only two meetings and , if so, the reasons therefor; (c) whether it is also a fact that Magsaysay Award winner, Shri Rajendra Singh, has quit the authority in disgust; and (d) if so, the response of Government thereto?

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

(a) No, Sir.

(b) So far three meetings of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) have been convened under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister on 5th October 2009, 1st November 2010 and 17th April 2012 respectively. Meetings are convened as per the need for taking decision on policy issues.

(c) & (d) Shri Rajendra Singh, non-official expert member of the Authority, had conveyed his resignation vide e- mail dated 10.03.2012 in support of the demands of Prof. G.D Agarwal (now Swami Gyan Swarup Sanand) on issues concerning conservation of river Ganga. It was mentioned in the communication that no action has been taken inspite of request for immediate intervention by the Government in the matter. However, his resignation was not accepted by the Chairman and he attended the 3rd meeting of NGRBA held on 17.04.2012.

CONTAMINATIONS FROM FIELD TRAILS OF GM CROPS 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4212

SHRI D. RAJA

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

(a) whether there is a mechanism in place to regularly and systematically monitor contaminations from field trails of GM crops; and (b) if so, the details thereof, including who does it, when such trialls were conducted, the locations and results thereof?

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

(a) & (b) Yes Sir, The activities involving the GM crops including their monitoring during the confined field trials are regulated under the “Rules for the manufacture, use/import/export and storage of hazardous microorganisms/genetically engineered organisms or cells, 1989” (Rule, 1989) notified under the ‘Environment (Protection) Act, 1986’. These rules and regulations are implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and State Governments. Six competent authorities and their composition have been provided for in the Rules, 1989 to handle various aspects. While the Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RDAC) is advisory in function, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM), Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBSC) are of regulatory function. The State Government through the State Biotechnology Coordination Committee (SBCC) and District Level Committees (DLCs) have a major role in monitoring the safety regulations during both pre and post release stage. RCGM/GEAC has also issued “Guidelines and SOPs for the conduct of Confined Field Trials of Transgenic Plant”, 2008’ which prescribes procedure and Proforma for conduct of GM crop field trials including those for monitoring.

Presently, the monitoring of multi-location confined field trials including Biosafety Research Level- I (BRL-I) and Biosafety Research level –II (BRL-II) trials is done by Central Compliance Committees (CCC) deputed by DBT and MoEF, which are specific for each of the events under BRL-I and BRL-II trials, respectively. CCCs have been given the responsibility of determining whether the conduct of a trial is in compliance with the term and conditions stipulated in the permit.

BRL-1 trials are conducted to generate data on efficacy, stability and environment safety in two-three locations not exceeding 1 acre per location. BRL-II trials are conducted to reconfirm the replicability of the data generated on efficacy, stability and environment safety over a larger area. The size and number of locations varies from crop to crop. Data generated during these trials are a pre-requisite for biosafety assessment. Accordingly, these trials are conducted with respect to all GM crops which are under various stages of regulatory process in institutions/universities, companies own field or farmer’s field leased out by the companies in various states subject to ‘No Objection Certificate’ from the respective states. The results of the CCCs which have undertaken monitoring till date showed the compliance to be satisfactory with respect to stipulated conditions.

TIGERS’ DEATHS IN THE COUNTRY 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4213

SHRI S. THANGAVELU

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

(a) whether it is the fact that over 300 tigers lost their lives in and outside various reserves in the country during the last decade; (b) if so, the details thereof and whether Government has taken any action to analyse the reason for the grim situation of tiger population in the country; and (c) if so, the details thereof and actions taken by Government to save the national animal?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) & (b)Details of tiger mortality, as reported by States are at Annexure-I. The tiger population has shown an increasing trend with a population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively in the recent all India estimation (2010), as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. (c) The milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection and conservation of tigers are at Annexure-II.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4213 ON TIGERS’ DEATHS IN THE COUNTRY ON 15.05.2012.

Details of year-wise tiger mortality (as reported by States)

Year Natural (Animals) Poaching (Animals) Total (Animals) 2001 8 36 44 2002 23 36 59 2003 24 20 44 2004 17 5 22 2005 17 - 17 2006 17 5 22 2007 20 10 30 2008 22 9 31 2009 49 17 66 2010 29 24 53 2011 47 9 56* 2012 18 14 32 (as on 07.05.2012) TOTAL 291 185 476

* Excludes seizure of one old trophy during the year

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4213 ON TIGERS’ DEATHS IN THE COUNTRY ON 15.05.2012.

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 for providing enabling provisions towards constituting the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Tiger and Other Endangered Species Crime Control Bureau.

2. Enhancement of punishment in cases of offence relating to a tiger reserve or its core area.

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 / home guards, apart from workforce comprising of local people, in addition to strengthening of communication / wireless facilities.

4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from 4.09.2006, 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 6.6.2007 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 (Orissa) and 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. Besides, the States 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 States for strengthening tiger conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, interalia, include funding support to States for enhanced village relocation/rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh/family to Rs. 10 lakhs/family), rehabilitation/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/assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. An area of 33472.01 sq. km. has been notified by 16 Tiger States (out of 17) as core or critical tiger habitat under section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006 (Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal). The State of Bihar has taken a decision for notifying the core or critical tiger habitat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

Financial steps

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

International Cooperation

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

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

13. 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 directions 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.

14. Based on India’s strong intervention during the 58th meeting of the Standing Committee of the CITES at Geneva from 6th to 10th July, 2009, the CITES Secretariat has issued a notification to Parties to submit reports relating to compliance of Decisions 14.69 and 14.65 within 90 days with effect from 20.10.2009 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.).

Reintroduction of Tigers

15. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers / tigresses have been done.

16. 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)

17. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of 29.2.2008, interalia, 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, the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. Rs. 93 lakhs each has been released to Corbett, Ranthambhore & Dudhwa Tiger Reserve for creation of STPF during 2008-09. Since then, the guidelines of the STPF have been revised for deploying forest personnel in place of Police as an option-II, with scope for involving local people like the Van Gujjars. During the year 2011-12, an amount of Rs. 3 crores has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for raising, arming and deploying the STPF.

18. 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

1. Implementing a tripartite MOU with tiger States, linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives.

2. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

4. 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.

5. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching ‘M-STrIPES’ for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

6. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

7. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

8. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves.

9. 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.

10. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

11. Increase in the allocation for Project Tiger with additional components.

12. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas.

13. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi, a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity / tiger conservation.

14. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and Guwahati.

15. Launching of Phase-IV tiger reserve level monitoring.

16. A protocol on conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sundarban signed between India and Bangladesh in September, 2011.

LOSS OF FORESTS DUE TO WILD FIRE 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4214

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) the number of cases of loss of forests because of wild fire in forests; (b) whether Government has any information of loss of the forest area per year in the country during last three years, State-wise, including Odisha; and (c) the strategy and preventive measures being taken by Government to prevent wild fire in forests?

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

(a) There are no cases of loss of forests because of wild fire in forests in India. Forest Fires in the country including Odisha are generally ground fire in which dried fallen material on the forest floor is burnt and there is no loss in tree cover. The forest regenerates after rainfall subsequently.

(b) In view of the above, question does not arise.

(c) For prevention of forest fires, State Forest Departments regularly create and maintain fire lines in forest areas. They also engage fire watchers and establish forest camps for prevention and control of forest fire. Regular patrolling by forest personnel is also done to prevent forest fires. Support of Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) is also taken in this regard. In some States like Odisha, cash incentives are also provided to these committees for preventing fire. Government of India implements a scheme “Intensification of Forest Management Scheme” (IFMS) which supplements the efforts of State Governments in protection from forest fires. In addition the Forest Survey of India (FSI) monitors forest fires on a daily basis during hot summer months using satellite data and information is sent to State to take immediate action for controlling these fires.

CONSERVATION OF RIVERS AND LAKES IN THE COUNTRY 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4215

SHRI N. BALAGANGA

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

(a) whether large cities and towns cause major pollution to rivers and lakes; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has prepared any conservation plans to protect such rivers and lakes in the country; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) The discharge of partially treated and untreated wastewater from towns along the rivers and lakes constitutes the major source of pollution load in these water bodies. According to a recent report of the Central Pollution Control Board (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, treatment capacity for 11787 mld is only available.

(c) & (d) Conservation of rivers and lakes is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in pollution abatement in identified river stretches under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) which presently covers 40 rivers in 190 towns spread over 20 States. Interception, diversion and treatment of sewage have been among the major pollution abatement works taken up. Sewage treatment capacity of 4664 million litres per day has been created so far under the Plan.

This Ministry is also implementing the scheme of National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) for conservation and management of polluted and degraded lakes in urban and semi-urban areas of the country, which presently covers 61 lakes in 14 States.

CAG OBSERVATION ON CONSERVATION OF RIVERS AND LAKES 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4216

SHRI A. ELAVARASAN

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

(a) whether the CAG has slammed the Ministry for its failure to deliver with more than 80 per cent of its ambitious projects to conserve lakes and rivers which could not be completed on time and some are not being utilised despite being constructed; (b) If so, the details thereof ; (c) whether it is a fact that National Lake Conservation Plan have been ineffective in achieving the objectives as these programmes were not based on comprehensive survey to assess pollution levels across the country ; and (d) If so, the details thereof ?

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

(a) & (b) The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has conducted performance audit of water pollution in India during the period from July 2010 to February 2011. The CAG has observed that the Ministry focused only on the sewage as the source of pollution of river and not industrial pollution as also that majority of the projects were completed after scheduled date due to variety of reasons such as delay in land acquisition, legal problems and disputes, delay in matching funds release by the State Government. Even after completion of the projects, O & M cost is not made available by local bodies resulting in to improper functioning of assets created.

(c) & (d) The National Lake Conservation Plan was started in June 2001 for conservation and management of polluted and degraded lakes in urban and semi urban areas of the country on a 70: 30 cost sharing basis between the Central Government and the respective State Governments (90:10 for North-Eastern States). The Ministry has sanctioned 61 projects at a sanctioned cost of Rs 1031.18 cr for rejuvenation of lakes in 14 States under the Lake Conservation Programme. Out of 61 projects, 23 projects have been completed resulting in improved lake water quality and enhanced lake aesthetics.

CLEARANCE ISSUANCE MECHANISM UNDER NEW CRZ NOTIFICATION 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4217

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 the new Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification is based on the pollution potential of the projects within the CRZ areas; (b) if so, the mechanism for the projects which have low pollution potential and does not attract provisions of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification; (c) whether it is a fact that some State Government have taken up the issue of revising issuance process for the projects, which only attract provisions of CRZ Notification 2011: and (d) 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) to (b) : No Sir. The Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2011 prohibits setting up of new Industries and expansion of existing industrial units in CRZ areas. Only activities which require foreshore facilities viz Ports, fishing harbour and pipeline for sea water intake / outfall, transmission lines etc. are permissible within CRZ. (c) : No sir. (d) Does not arise in view of the reply to part (c) above.

POLLUTION DUE TO INCINERATORS IN THE COUNTRY 15th May, 2012

RSQ 4218

SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY

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

(a) whether there exists any pollution control measures for incinerators operating in the country; (b) the details of the types and numbers of incinerators working in the country, State-wise; (c) whether there have been cases of hazardous pollution due to these incinerators during the last three years; (d) the details of the action taken by the Ministry to ensure that such incinerators do not pose a threat to adjoining residential areas; and (e) the details of the number of incinerators that will be set up?

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

(a) & (b) A number of incinerators are installed at common facilities for disposal of hazardous waste, bio-medical waste and municipal solid waste. Besides, such incinerators are also installed in health care facilities and at individual industries. Air pollution control device (APCD) is required to be provided with the individual incinerator.

There exist 177 incinerators for common bio-medical waste treatment facilities (CBMWTF), 692 incinerators at health care facilities (IHCF), 22 common hazardous waste incinerators and 127 captive hazardous waste incinerators. Out of these 1018 incinerators, 273 incinerators are operating without APCDs, as reported by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

(c) & (d) Environmental standards have been notified for various categories of incinerators. Concerned State Pollution Control Board and CPCB seek compliance of the notified norms, as applicable. 29 non-compliant CBMWTF, five non-compliant IHCF and two industry specific captive incinerators have been directed under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 by the CPCB. In case of one captive incinerator in Gujarat, Gujarat State Pollution Control Board has been directed under the Air Act, 1981 by CPCB for ensuring compliance of environmental norms.

(e) Data on the number of incinerators likely to be set up is not available in the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

ALLOCATION OF FUNDS TO BIHAR 22nd May, 2012

RSQ *642

SHRI SABIR ALI

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

(a) the details of funds allocated and spent in Bihar 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 ?

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), (b), AND (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 642 REGARDING “ALLOCATION OF FUNDS TO BIHAR” ASKED BY SHRI SABIR ALI FOR ANSWER ON 22.05.2012.

(a) : The Ministry of Environment and Forests releases funds to the states /UTs under its various Centrally Sponsored Schemes. The total amount so released during the last three years (2009-10, 2010-11, and 2011-12) and the current financial year 2012-13 so far, for the state of Bihar, amounted to Rs 63.81 crore, against which the state has reported a utilization of Rs 38.12 crore. In addition, an amount of Rs 3.70 crore was released to the Bihar State Pollution Control Board under various programmes of the Ministry, and the Regional Office of the Zoological Survey of India, Patna during this period.

(b) : The details of purposes for which these funds were given and spent are given in Table below:

Sl.No Name of the scheme/Programme Releases Utilization (Rs (Rs crore) crore) 1 National Ganga River Basin Authority NGRBA 35.97 17.60 2 National Afforestation Programme NAP 20.14 13.16 3 Intensification of Forest Management IFMS 3.69 3.15 4 Project Tiger PT 3.39 3.80 5 Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats IDWLH 0.62 0.41 Total (1-5) 63.81 38.12 6. Bihar State Pollution Board i. Assistance for abatement of Pollution 0.50 - ii. National Air Quality Monitoring Programme 0.74 0.74 iii. National Water Quality Monitoring Programme 0.16 0.16 iv. Hazardous Substances Management – Awareness workshops on Bio-medical 0.46 0.46 waste & Municipal solid waste Management 7. Zoological Survey of India Regional Office at Patna - Exploration, survey, 1.84 1.84 Identification, inventorization, & monitoring of faunal diversity of Bihar. Total (6-7) 3.70 3.20

(c) Allocation of funds under these schemes/programmes of the Ministry is based on timely submission of project proposals by the states/UTs, as per their prescribed guidelines, and submission of progress reports and Utilization Certificates towards utilization of funds released in the past, given the overall allocation provided to the Ministry. The Ministry has also sought higher allocations for these schemes/programmes under its 12th Five Year Plan.

IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF DEMWE LOWER HE PROJECT IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH 22nd May, 2012

RSQ * 653

SHRI BIRENDRA PRASAD BAISHYA

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

(a) the details of criterion followed by Government to issue environmental clearance to the Demwe Lower Hydro Electric (HE) Project on Lohit river in Arunachal Pradesh; (b) whether any assessment is being made of adverse impact on environment, ecology, wildlife as well as serious impact on the livelihood of people living upstream and downstream of Demwe Lower HE Project; (c) if so, the details thereof along with the steps taken in this regard;

(d) whether the impact assessment on Demwe Lower HE Project is null and void, which acquired environmental clearance recently; 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 the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 653 due for Reply on 22.05.2012 regarding Impact Assessment of Demwe Lower HE Project in Arunachal Pradesh by Shri Birendra Prasad Baishya

(d) The environmental clearance to Demwe Lower Hydro Power Project on Lohit River in Arunachal Pradesh has been accorded as per the provisions & procedures laid down under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006.

(e) & (c) The impacts on environment, ecology, wildlife as well as social impact due to the Project have been assessed in the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report and the mitigation measures for these impacts have been provided in the Environment Management Plan (EMP) prepared for the project. Further, as per the stipulation in Environmental Clearance, a Downstream Impact Assessment Study up to Dibrugarh Town which is more than 100 km downstream of the project has been awarded. A Cumulative Impact Assessment of Hydro Power Projects proposed in Lohit Basin has also been conducted.

(d) & (e) No such order has been issued by the Ministry for Impact Assessment Study for Lower Demwe HEP.

COAST LINE MAPPING IN GUJARAT 22nd May, 2012

RSQ *655

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR

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

(a) whether the coast line mapping done by Government is restricted to the Port Development process in Gujarat as per its Draft Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) Notification 2010; (b) the status of the same under CRZ Notification 2011; and (c) whether Government is looking into it for any deviation?

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

(a), (b) and (c): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFFERED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b) AND (c) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.*655 FOR ANSWER ON 22/05/2012 REGARDING COAST LINE MAPPING IN GUJARAT

(a) : The coast line mapping done by Government is not restricted to the Port Development process in Gujarat alone but is applicable to all coastal States and Union Territories of mainland coast of India. As per draft Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2010 the coastal stretches shall be classified as ‘high eroding sites’, ‘medium eroding sites’ and ‘low or stable sites’. Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) with State Authorities or Government Departments and scientific institutions shall identify the causes of such shoreline changes to take necessary measures to minimise such erosion. Till such time no port projects shall be permitted in the high eroding sites.

(b): Under CRZ Notification, 2011, the port and harbour projects in high eroding stretches are prohibited.

(c): No, Sir.

SAFE DISPOSAL OF CFL BULBS 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4968

SHRI

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

(a) whether Government is promoting the use of Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs with a view to save the consumption of power; (b) whether it is a fact that CFL bulbs contain mercury which is a hazardous element if disposed off carelessly; (c) whether efforts are being made by Government to educate public about the appropriate disposal of CFL bulbs with a view to avoid the adverse impact of mercury in the environment; and (d) if so, what steps have been taken in this regard and the results of these efforts?

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

(b) to (d): As per the information provided by the Ministry of Power, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency is promoting the energy efficient lighting in household/domestic sector through “Bachat Lamp Yojana”. Under this scheme, the Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) are provided to the residential consumers in exchange of an Incandescent Lamp and the CFL supplier is required to make arrangements for collection of fused CFLs through appropriate schemes and ensure their safe storage, transportation and disposal. The concentration of mercury in Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) may vary depending on the type of technology used in dosing of mercury. The Ministry of Environment and Forests had constituted a Task Force to evolve a policy on “Environmentally Sound Management of mercury in Fluorescent Lamps”. A Technical Committee, constituted by this Task Force, had prepared “Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Mercury Management in Fluorescent Lamps Sector”. These guidelines prescribe the best practices at various levels, such as at manufacturer’s level and include aspects relate to mercury consumption, process technology, raw mercury distillation, on-site storage, treatment, recycling and disposal of mercury bearing wastes, mercury spill management. The best practices at consumer’s level include handling of used/broken lamps, consumer awareness pertaining to collection, transport, treatment and disposal of used fluorescent lamps. Ministry of Environment and Forests and Central Pollution Control Board have written to all the State Governments and Union Territories to encourage establishment of recycling units so that the fused Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) and Fluorescent Tube lights (FTLs) are properly collected and the mercury is recovered and recycled scientifically and safely.

DISPLAY OF ENVIRONMENTAL RELATED INFORMATION BY PETROLEUM COMPANIES 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4969

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) whether petroleum companies operating in the country are not displaying the environmental clearance related information on their websites which is creating doubts in accessing this information; (b) whether any action has been taken against any petroleum company regarding violation of conditions/rules of displaying of environmental clearance information on the website; (c) whether conditions/rules also require that if companies do not display the information of environmental clearance on their websites, it gets cancelled automatically; and (d) the details thereof?

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

(a) The Regional Offices of the Ministry of Environment & Forests have informed that some of the petroleum units operating in the country have not been displaying the environmental clearance related information on their respective websites.

(b) to (d) Ministry of Environment & Forests had taken a decision vide circular dated 24th March, 2009 to stipulate transparency conditions in the environment clearance, which required the project proponent to upload the status of compliance of the stipulated environment clearance conditions including results of monitored data on their website and to update the same periodically.

Non compliance of the stipulated environment clearance conditions amounts to violation of the provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 attracting action under the provisions thereof. The six Regional Offices of Ministry of Environment & Forests located at Bangalore, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Lucknow and Shillong have been entrusted with the responsibility to monitor compliance of the stipulated environment clearance conditions. Based on the reported non compliances by the Regional Offices, action is initiated against the defaulting units. During the last three years showcause notices have been issued to two petroleum units for non compliance of the stipulated environment clearance conditions.

REDUCTION IN PREY BASE OF TIGERS AT SIMLIPAL FOREST IN ODISHA 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4970

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) whether tribal ritual of mass hunting and presence of human habitats is resulting in an alarming reduction in the prey base for the tigers in Simlipal forest in Odisha; and (b) whether there is tiger protection force in Simlipal for the protection of tigers?

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

(a) As reported, the ritual of mass hunting and biotic pressure are, interalia, deleterious causative factors for low prey base in the Similipal Tiger Reserve.

(b) Funding assistance has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for deploying tiger protection force involving ex-army personnel and local people for protection of the said reserve. Besides, central assistance amounting Rs. 30 lakhs and Rs. 240 lakhs have been provided during the years 2010-11 and 2011-12 to the State for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force in the Similipal Tiger Reserve.

ILLEGAL PLANTING OF GMO BY MONSANTO 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4971

SHRI D. RAJA

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

(a) whether Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) had evidence of illegal planting of an unapproved Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) by Monsanto in University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Dharwad and did not act on fixing liability; and (b) if so, the reasons for the regulators not fixing liability?

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

(a) & (b) No Sir; The Ministry had received a representation from M/s Coalition for GM Free India informing that M/s Monsanto India Limited has violated the biosafety norms by planting herbicide tolerant maize (NK603) as a comparator without the approval of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) during field trials with transgenic maize expressing stacked events, namely, MON89034 and NK603 at University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad in Karnataka. The matter was considered by the GEAC in the meeting held on 8.2.2012. On reviewing the facts of the case, the Committee noted that the field trials with transgenic maize was conducted as per the experimental field design and protocol approved by the GEAC and Director, Directorate of Maize Research. Accordingly the Committee concluded that there has been no violation in the instant case.

DEATH DURING RECRUITMENT OF FOREST GUARDS 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4972

SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the physical criteria for recruitment for forest guard jobs resulted in the death of one person in Maharashtra; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether this physical criteria is as per Government guidelines for forest guard recruitment; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) If not, reasons therefor; and (f) the details of the relief measures extended to those who suffered due to the long distance run?

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

(a) No, Sir.

(b) oes not arise.

(c) & (d) A physical Endurance test for the post of Forest Guard is prescribed comprising of walking test over 25 km distance for males and 16 km distance for females to be completed within 4 hours. The physical endurance test is competitive and eliminative type wherein the candidates who have covered the prescribed distance in minimum time shall be called for next round of recruitment process.

(e) Does not arise.

(f) For the candidates who suffered minor health problems due to exhaustion during physical endurance test timely medical aid was provided to them. During the course of the said test facilities of drinking water, electoral powder, glucose, ambulance etc, were made available to them. The ambulance and doctors stood on duty at the site of the test to attend the candidate undergoing the said test.

PERMITS TO WILDLIFE RESEARCHERS 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4973

PROF. SAIF-UD-DIN SOZ

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

(a) the number of permits issued in Goa to wildlife researchers during the last three years ending February 29, 2012; (b) the procedure for issuing such permits; and (c) the circumstances under which the permits are refused?

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

(a) 19 permissions have been issued to Wildlife Researchers in Goa during three years ending February 29, 2012.

(b) Section 12 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 authorizes the Chief Wild Life Wardens, with the previous permission of the State Government, and in case of animals listed in Schedule I of the Act, with the previous permission of the Central Government, to grant permit to any person, by an order in writing stating the reasons therefor, on payment of such fee as may be prescribed by the Rules framed under the Act, which shall entitle the holder of such permit to hunt, subject to such conditions as may be specified in such permit, any wild animal specified in such permit, inter alia for the purpose of scientific research.

Section 28 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 authorizes the Chief Wild Life Warden to grant to any person a permit to enter or reside in a Sanctuary or a National Park inter alia for the purpose of scientific research. Such a permit is issued on application, and subject to such conditions and on payment of such fee as may be prescribed by the Rules framed under the Act.

The permits for scientific research are, accordingly, granted in accordance with the provisions contained in the Rules framed under Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 for Goa, viz., the applicants need to apply in Form No. XII as prescribed under Goa, Daman and Diu Wild Life (Protection) Rules, 1977. The permit is issued by the competent authority after getting the proposal thoroughly examined and verifying the purpose from the field officers.

(c)The Chief Wild Life Warden, or the State or Central Government as the case may be, may refuse to issue a permit if such proposal does not meet the requirements prescribed under the Rules, or at their discretion, if they are not satisfied with the research proposal.

UN REPORT ON GLOBAL WARMING 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4974

SHRI N. BALAGANGA

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

(a) whether Government is aware of the United Nations (UN) report on global warming wherein India is ranked amongst the top countries responsible for global warming; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of Government thereto; and (c) the steps taken by Government to remedy the situation?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) & (b) As per the information available with the Statistical Division of United Nations and the list of countries by Carbon dioxide emissions prepared by the Centre for Carbon Dioxide Information Analysis (CDIAC), United States of America (USA), which provides information to United Nations, India’s total carbon dioxide emission is 1742698.0 thousand Metric tonnes in 2008 and India is ranked third at global level. India does not have legally binding reduction commitments under Kyoto Protocol. However, Government of India is taking steps voluntarily to reduce Green House Gas emissions.

(c) A National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) was released on June 30, 2008 to outline India’s strategy to meet the challenge of Climate Change. The NAPCC includes eight Missions in specific area of Solar Energy, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Eco-system, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate Change. The objectives of these Missions are to support India’s policies for sustainable development, by way of promotion of energy efficiency, appropriate mix of fuels and primary energy sources including nuclear, hydro and renewable sources, energy pricing, pollution abatement, afforestation, mass transport, besides differentially higher growth rates of less energy intensive services sectors as compared to manufacturing, results in a relatively Greenhouse Gas benign growth path.

CONSERVATION OF LAKES IN THE COUNTRY 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4975

DR. T. SUBBARAMI REDDY

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

(a) the steps being taken by Government at present for conservation of lakes in the country; (b) whether there is a separate criteria for conservation and renovation of lakes at tourist places; (c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) if not, the reasons therefor; and (e) the steps taken by Government in this regard?

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

(a) The Ministry is implementing the scheme of National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) since June 2001, for conservation and management of polluted and degraded lakes in urban and semi-urban areas of the country, through an integrated ecosystem approach. The mandate of the NLCP Scheme is pollution prevention and conservation of perennial lakes.

(b) to (e) The criteria for consideration of lakes under the scheme including those at tourist places, cover hydrological and scientific aspects, prioritization of lakes by the States, conformity to NLCP guidelines, pollution status and availability of funds under the Plan.

TIGER PROTECTION FORCES IN PROJECT TIGER 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4976

SHRI V.P. SINGH BADNORE

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

(a) the number of ‘Project Tiger’ under the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) along with the details thereof; and (b) the number of these projects which have Tiger Protection Forces and the details of assistance given by NTCA to set them up?

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

(a) The details of tiger reserves as notified by States and supported under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger are at Annexure-I. The National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body under the Ministry of Environment and Forests, constituted under enabling provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006, for strengthening tiger conservation, as per powers and functions assigned to it under the said Act by retaining an oversight.

(b) Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, funding assistance is provided to tiger reserves for management and protection, which, interalia, includes assistance for deployment of tiger protection force involving ex-army personnel and local people. Further, under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, 100% central assistance is also provided to tiger States for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) in sensitive tiger reserves. The details of central assistance provided to States in this regard are at Annexure-II. The overall funding support provided to tiger reserves during the XI Plan period are at Annexure-III.

ANNEXURE-I RFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4976 ON TIGER PROTECTION FORCES IN PROJECT TIGER DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.05.2012.

List of tiger reserves in India

Sl. No. Name of Tiger Reserve State 1 Bandipur Karnataka 2 Corbett Uttarakhand 3 Kanha Madhya Pradesh 4 Manas Assam 5 Melghat Maharashtra 6 Palamau Jharkhand 7 Ranthambore Rajasthan 8 Similipal Orissa 9 Sunderbans West Bengal 10 Periyar Kerala 11 Sariska Rajasthan 12 Buxa West Bengal 13 Indravati Chhattisgarh 14 Nagarjunsagar Andhra Pradesh 15 Namdapha Arunachal Pradesh 16 Dudhwa Uttar Pradesh 17 Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tamil Nadu 18 Valmiki Bihar 19 Pench Madhya Pradesh 20 Tadoba-Andhari Maharashtra 21 Bandhavgarh Madhya Pradesh 22 Panna Madhya Pradesh 23 Dampa Mizoram 24 Bhadra Karnataka 25 Pench Maharashtra 26 Pakke Arunachal Pradesh 27 Nameri Assam 28 Satpura Madhya Pradesh 29 Anamalai Tamil Nadu 30 Udanti-Sitanadi Chattisgarh 31 Satkosia Orissa 32 Kaziranga Assam 33 Achanakmar Chattisgarh 34 Dandeli-Anshi Karnataka 35 Sanjay-Dubri Madhya Pradesh 36 Mudumalai Tamil Nadu 37 Nagarahole Karnataka 38 Parambikulam Kerala 39 Sahyadri Maharashtra 40 Biligiri Ranganatha Temple Karnataka

41 Kawal Andhra Pradesh

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4976 ON TIGER PROTECTION FORCES IN PROJECT TIGER DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.05.2012.

Details of central assistance provided to States under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)

S.No. Name of the Tiger State Year Amount of central assistance Reserve provided (Rs. in lakhs) 1 Corbett Uttarakhand 2008-09 93.00 2 Dudhwa Uttar Pradesh 2008-09 93.00 3 Ranthambhore Rajasthan 2008-09 93.00 4 Similipal Orissa 2010-11 30.00 2011-12 240.00

ANNEXURE-III REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4976 ON TIGER PROTECTION FORCES IN PROJECT TIGER DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.05.2012.

DETAILS OF FUNDS RELEASED TO STATES UNDER THE CENTRALLY SPONSORED SCHEME “PROJECT TIGER” DURING XI PLAN PERIOD (2007-08 to 2011-12)

(Rs. in lakhs) Sl. No. States Release Release Release Release Release 2007-08 2008-09 2009 -10 2010-11 2011-12 1 Andhra Pradesh 73.9175 56.9830 138.2540 155.6450 154.4060 2 Arunachal Pradesh 110.2542 246.1710 64.7100 226.7020 236.7857 3 Assam 95.6140 1092.3790 194.2900 1509.4720 947.5088 4 Bihar 98.3205 49.6730 8.8560 158.3550 172.1930 5 Chhattisgarh 35.2250 169.8700 1383.5020 1813.7250 702.7260 6 Jharkhand 45.1600 115.3770 117.1386 130.6160 156.3465 7 Karnataka 1159.7149 689.8390 657.0620 1660.0500 1830.6500 8 Kerala 153.2449 267.0900 311.4200 323.4600 429.7700 9 Madhya Pradesh 2975.9411 6998.5420 2582.4762 3962.730 5352.710 10 Maharashtra 295.7191 411.1250 373.5170 2789.0600 3622.3420 11 Mizoram 82.9000 241.4500 2171.000 187.6900 225.2880 12 Orissa 43.2800 625.9900 221.7400 815.2900 555.0761 13 Rajasthan 410.6800 2708.9500 10694.1700 2368.925 67.210 14 Tamil Nadu 45.0000 690.8060 258.3540 520.9450 605.9640 15 Uttaranchal 202.0050 462.8500 246.2050 339.9450 399.7600 16 Uttar Pradesh 134.8900 417.5130 431.5170 407.4600 446.1258 17 West Bengal 308.6741 228.3940 298.7850 502.4800 157.6600 Total 6,270.5403 15,473.002 20,152.997 17,872.391 16,062.522

FOREST CARBON PARTNERSHIP FACILITY 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4977

SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE

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

(a) whether Government plans to sign an agreement with World Bank's Forest Carbon Partnership Facility; (b) whether there has been any talk to participate in the United Nations Collaborative Initiative on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (UN-REDD) Programme; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) , (b) and (c) There is no proposal under consideration to sign any agreement with World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility or to participate in the United Nations Collaborative initiative on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (UN-REDD) Programme.

COMPENSATION FOR ACQUISITION OF FOREST LAND 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4978

SHRI

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

(a) whether Government has acquired forest land from the States/Union-Territories (UTs) for building dam, mining and other non-forest activities; (b) if so, the details of the forest land acquired during the last three years, State/UT-wise; (c) the compensation worked out and provided by Government to State Governments in lieu of the acquired forest land, State/ UT-wise; (d) the amount deposited in the ad-hoc Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), till date; (e) whether State Governments have urged the Central Government to grant funds from CAMPA fund; and (f) if so, the reaction Government thereto?

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

(a) and (b) Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) did not acquire forest land from the States/Union- Territories (UTs) for building dam, mining and other non-forest activities. However, as per the provision of the Section-2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, use of forest land for non-forest purpose require prior approval of Central Government. State/UT-wise details of approvals accorded under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes during the last three years (i.e. with effect from 01.01.2009 to 31.12.2011) is annexed.

(c) and (d) As the MoEF did not acquire forest land from the States/Union-Territories (UTs) for building dam, mining and other non-forest activities no compensation in this regard has been provided by the MoEF to State/ Union Territories. However, approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 accorded by the MoEF for use of forest land for non-forest purposes are subject to fulfillment of inter-alia the conditions that the concerned State/UT Government shall realize the Net Present Value (NPV) of the diverted forest land and the amount required for creation and maintenance of compensatory afforestation, afforestation and fencing of safety zone (for mining projects), implementation of Catchment Area Treatment Plan (for irrigation and dam projects), implementation of Regional and/or site specific Wildlife Conservation Plan etc. from the concerned user agencies and transfer the same to the Ad-hoc CAMPA. As on 31.03.2012 an amount of Rs.22,382 crores is available with the ad-hoc CAMPA.

(e) and (f) Funds are released to the State CAMPAs on the basis of the Annual Plans of Operation, and in terms of the Order dated 10th July 2009 of the Supreme Court of India in IA No.2143 in Writ Petition (Civil) No.202/1995 in the matter of T. N. Godavarman Thirumulpad versus Union of India and others. During the years 2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 amounts of Rs. 983 crores, Rs.1,034 crores and Rs. 823 crores, respectively have been released to State CAMPAs.

Annexure referred to in answer to parts (a) & (b) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 4978 on ‘Compensation for acquisition of forest land’ asked by Shri Bhupender Yadav for reply on 22.05.2012

State-wise details of the approvals (Stage-I and Stage-II) accorded under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 during the period of last three years (i.e. with effect from 01.01.2009 to 31.12.2011)

Sl. No. State/ UT No. of Proposals Area of forest land diverted (in hectares) 1 2 3 4 1 Andhra Pradesh 112 12,346.71 2 Arunachal Pradesh 82 3,623.66 3 Assam 31 800.93 4 Bihar 79 4,033.46 5 Chhattisgarh 81 9,939.85 6 Goa 23 973.24 7 Gujarat 346 6,567.97 8 Haryana 794 1,318.32 9 Himachal Pradesh 403 3,132.24 10 Jharkhand 128 9,819.44 11 Karnataka 89 2,667.38 12 Kerala 20 30.64 13 Madhya Pradesh 173 7,922.65 14 Maharashtra 197 6,494.18 15 Manipur 5 915.29 16 Meghalaya 7 126.33 17 Mizoram 2 253.38 18 Nagaland 0 0 19 Orissa 75 10,304.6 20 Punjab* 736 1,639.22 21 Rajasthan 121 4,558.71 22 Sikkim 60 1,262.09 23 Tamil Nadu 54 505.92 24 Tripura 48 81 25 Uttarakhand 1,026 6,614.04 26 Uttar Pradesh 365 1,064.95 27 West Bengal 28 279.63 28 A & N Islands 4 0.42 29 Chandigarh 5 0.31 30 D & N Haveli 16 4.89 31 Daman & Diu 1 3.95 32 Delhi 3 16.74 33 Lakshadweep 0 0 34 Puducherry 0 0 Total 5,114 97,302.15 *: Excluding 55,339.95 ha. area covered under cultivation and habitation which was closed under the Punjab Land Preservation Act, 1900. Stage-II approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980 for its delisting from the list of forest areas was accorded during 2009.

Note: The statement does not include information for Jammu & Kashmir as the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 do not extend to Jammu & Kashmir.

PROVISIONING OF FIRE-WORKS TO FOREST GUARDS 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4979

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) the number of poachers and smugglers arrested and punished as per the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 as amended in 2006, State-wise; (b) whether it is a fact that the forest guards are not provided with any fire arms and they are not daring enough to arrest the poachers who operates in big groups and carry the most sophisticated fire arms with them; and (c) whether Government will consider to engage armed forces or to supply fire arms to forest guards?

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

(a) The enforcement of the provisions of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 including detection of wildlife offences, and arrest and prosecution of wildlife offenders is primarily the responsibility of the concerned State/Union

Territory Government. The details of poachers and smugglers arrested, prosecuted, and punished by the State Governments are not collated in the Ministry.

(b) No, Sir.

(c) The enforcement of law, including forest and wild life laws, is the responsibility of the concerned State/Union Territory Governments. The Ministry provides financial assistance to the State Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’, ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ to undertake works as per the Annual Plans of Operation submitted by them. Purchase of arms and ammunition for the field staff, in addition to other items, is supported under the abovementioned schemes, as and when such demands are received from the State/Union Territory Governments. At present, there is no proposal with the Ministry to engage armed forces for this purpose.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR EXCAVATION OF MINES IN ANDHRA PRADESH 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4980

SHRI NANDI YELLAIAH

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

(a) the details and current status of the request of Andhra Pradesh Government for diversion of 16.00 hectares of forest land at Gopavaram reserve forest in Kadapa Division for excavation of Pedda Polu Palli mines; (b) the main hurdles in according forest related clearance; and (c) by when the clearance shall be accorded?

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

(a) to (c) In consideration of a proposal received from the State Government of Andhra Pradesh, Ministry of Environment and Forests vide its letter dated 07.12.2010 has already accorded in-principle approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 16.00 hectares of forest land in Gopavaram Reserve Forest of Kadapa Division for excavation of Pedda Polu Palli distributory and minors.

BIO-SAFETY VIOLATIONS BY MONSANTO 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4981

SHRI D. RAJA

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

(a) whether the State Government of Karnataka and the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) have investigated reports of bio-safety violations by Monsanto in its GM corn cultivation plots in Bijapur , as reported by a Kannada TV channel and an environment organisation; (b) if so, the details of the investigation report and the action taken by the regulators; and (c) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) to (c) Yes Sir; The Ministry had received a representation from M/s Greenpeace informing that M/s Monsanto India has violated the biosafety norms during GM corn experimental seed production in Bijapur District, Karnataka. To examine the above allegation, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) had constituted a three-member Inspection Committee. The Inspection Committee jointly with the State Government has completed the inspection on 9th /10th March 2012. The Committee on the basis of material evidence collected through direct interaction with farmers and the State Government officials; and examination of experimental seed production sites and other relevant documents has concluded that it was difficult to ascertain that any violation has taken place.

TIGER ZONE IN ADILABAD DISTRICT OF ANDHRA PRADESH 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4982

SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY SHRIMATI GUNDU SUDHARANI

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has recently notified the Forty-first Tiger Zone of the country in Adilabad district of Andhra Pradesh; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Ministry is aware that nearly 60,000 Adivasis are going to be displaced due to the above notification; and (d) if so, how the Ministry is going to help them?

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

(a) & (b) The State Government of Andhra Pradesh has notified the Kawal Tiger Reserve in April, 2012, which is the 41st Tiger Reserve in the country.

(c) & (d) Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, enabling provisions exist for making the core/critical tiger habitat inviolate only through voluntary relocation of people residing therein. The Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger has a provision for providing 100% central assistance to States in this regard with an enhanced package of Rs. 10 lakhs per family.

DECREASE IN POPULATION OF TIGERS IN THE COUNTRY 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4983

DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE SHRI N.K. SINGH

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

(a) whether the population of tigers have registered a drastic fall in the last few years; (b) if so, the reasons therefor and the population of tigers during each of the last three Census, State-wise; (c) the details of schemes launched for the protection of these animals; (d) whether these schemes have achieved their desired goals; and (e) 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) No Sir. The country level tiger population, estimated 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 all India estimation (2010), as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. The landscape-wise details of tiger estimation in the country for the year 2006 and 2010 are at Annexure-I.

(c) ‘Project Tiger’ was launched in 1973 to conserve tigers in our country. This is ongoing as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for providing funding support and technical guidance to 17 tiger States for tiger conservation in notified tiger reserves.

(d) & (e) Project Tiger has put the endangered tiger on an assured path of recovery, as revealed in the country level assessment of tiger, co-predators, prey and habitat. The recent (2010) findings in this context indicate a poor status of tiger population in areas outside tiger reserves and protected areas. The tiger population, by and large, in tiger reserves and protected areas of such States are viable, while requiring ongoing conservation efforts. The milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India to protect and foster tiger conservation are at Annexure-II.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4983 ON DECREASE IN POPULATION OF TIGERS IN THE COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.05.2012.

Details of tiger estimation for the years 2006 and 2010

State Tiger Population 2006 2010 Increase/ Decrease / Stable Estimate Statistical Statistical Estimate Statistical Statistical (Number) Lower Upper Limit (Number) Lower Upper Limit Limit Limit 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- 297 259 335 353 320 388 Stable Gangetic landscape 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 10 6 14 Could assessed not be compare d since it was not assessed in 2006. Central Indian 601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable landscape 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 402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase landscape North Eastern Hills and Brahmaputra Flood Plains Assam 70 60 80 143 113 173 Increase Arunachal 14 12 18 Not Not assessed Not Could Pradesh assessed assessed not be compare d since it was not assessed in 2010. Mizoram 6 4 8 5 (-)*** (-)*** (-)*** Stable

Northern West 10 8 12 Not Not assessed Not Could Bengal assessed assessed not be compare d since it was not assessed in 2010. North East Hills, 100 84 118 148 118 178 Increase and Brahmaputra landscape Sundarbans Not Not Not assessed 70 64 90 Could assessed assessed not be compare d 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 REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (d) & (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4983 ON DECREASE IN POPULATION OF TIGERS IN THE COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 22.05.2012.

Milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India to protect and foster tiger conservation

Legal steps

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

2. Enhancement of punishment in cases of offence relating to a tiger reserve or its core area.

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 / home guards, apart from workforce comprising of local people, in addition to strengthening of communication / wireless facilities.

4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from 4.09.2006, 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 6.6.2007 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 (Orissa) and 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. Besides, the States 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 States for strengthening tiger conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, interalia, include funding support to States for enhanced village relocation/rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh/family to Rs. 10 lakhs/family), rehabilitation/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/assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. An area of 33472.01 sq. km. has been notified by 16 Tiger States (out of 17) as core or critical tiger habitat under section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006 (Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Orissa, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal). The State of Bihar has taken a decision for notifying the core or critical tiger habitat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve.

Financial steps

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

International Cooperation

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

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

13. 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 directions 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.

14. Based on India’s strong intervention during the 58th meeting of the Standing Committee of the CITES at Geneva from 6th to 10th July, 2009, the CITES Secretariat has issued a notification to Parties to submit reports relating to compliance of Decisions 14.69 and 14.65 within 90 days with effect from 20.10.2009 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.).

Reintroduction of Tigers

15. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers / tigresses have been done.

16. 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)

17. The policy initiatives announced by the Finance Minister in his Budget Speech of 29.2.2008, interalia, 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, the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. Rs. 93 lakhs each has been released to Corbett, Ranthambhore & Dudhwa Tiger Reserve for creation of STPF during 2008-09. Since then, the guidelines of the STPF have been revised for deploying forest personnel in place of Police as an option-II, with scope for involving local people like the Van Gujjars. During the year 2011-12, an amount of Rs. 3 crores has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for raising, arming and deploying the STPF.

18. 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

1. Implementing a tripartite MOU with tiger States, linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives.

2. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

4. 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.

5. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching ‘M-STrIPES’ for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

6. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

7. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

8. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves.

9. 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.

10. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

11. Increase in the allocation for Project Tiger with additional components.

12. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas.

13. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi, a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity / tiger conservation.

14. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and Guwahati.

15. Launching of Phase-IV tiger reserve level monitoring.

16. A protocol on conservation of the Royal Bengal Tiger of the Sundarban signed between India and Bangladesh in September, 2011.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO HYDRO-POWER PROJECTS IN THE COUNTRY 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4984

SHRI BIRENDRA PRASAD BAISHYA

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

(a) the details of environmental clearance given to various projects particularly hydro-power projects including projects pending for clearance and already rejected in the country during the last three years, State-wise; (b) the details of criterion fixed and practices being adopted by Government towards issuing environmental clearance particularly to a project, wherein impact assessment are made; and

(c) the details of policies being adopted by Government and criterion fixed for issuing the environmental clearance inspite of their impact on environment and resulting in Global Warming and Climate Change?

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

(a) A total of 1878 projects from various sectors including 18 projects from hydropower sector have been given environmental clearance by the Ministry of Environment and Forests during last three years from January, 2009 to December, 2011. A total of 417 projects are pending for environmental clearance and 20 projects have been rejected during the last 3 years. A State-wise statement is given in Annexure-I.

(b) & (c) The environmental clearance to projects is issued under the provisions of the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 and its amendment of 2009. Based on the spatial extent of potential impacts and potential impacts on human health and natural and manmade resources, the projects and activities requiring environmental clearance are listed in Schedule of the Notification and are broadly categorized in to two categories - Category A and Category B. The Category ‘A’ projects require prior environmental clearance from Central Government in the Ministry of Environment and Forests and matters falling under Category ‘B’ require at State or Union Territory level from the State or Union Territory level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). After carrying out an Environmental Impact Assessment study and preparation of Environment Management Plan for suggesting the measures for mitigating the adverse impacts due to the project and carrying out a public consultation, the project is environmentally appraised by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) at the Central Level and by the State level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) constituted under the Notification. After a through scrutiny and examination of the impacts of the projects, strict conditions are stipulated while granting the environmental clearance. Annexure-I Environmental Clearance given to various projects during the last 3 years (2009-2011)

S. 2009 2010 2011 Total Name of the State No 1 A & N Islands - 3 1 4 2 Andhra Pradesh 92 70 44 206 3 Arunachal Pradesh - 3 7 10 4 Assam 16 9 18 43 5 Bihar 7 8 18 33 6 Chandigarh - 1 - 1 7 Chhattishgarh 59 33 34 126 8 Dadar & Nagar Haveli - 1 6 7 9 Daman & Diu 5 2 1 8 10 Delhi - 1 2 3 11 Goa 30 7 - 37 12 Gujarat 164 1 60 225 13 Haryana 3 3 18 24 14 Himachal Pradesh 9 6 6 21 15 Jammu & Kashmir 5 3 3 11 16 Jharkhand 40 40 31 111 17 Karnataka 49 22 24 95 18 Kerala 6 29 18 53 19 Lakshdeep - - - - 20 Madhya Pradesh 45 19 25 89 21 Maharashtra 119 44 46 209 22 Manipur - - - - 23 Meghalaya 4 4 3 11 24 Mizoram 1 - - 1 25 Nagaland - - - - 26 Orissa 68 36 35 139 27 Pondicherry 1 1 2 4 28 Punjab 7 18 27 52 29 Rajasthan 48 37 19 104 30 Sikkim 1 1 1 3 31 Tamil Nadu 29 30 36 95 32 Tripura 1 - - 1 33 Uttar Pradesh 11 2 10 23 34 Uttrakhand 13 4 16 33 35 West Bengal 40 25 19 84 36 Others 8 2 2 12 Total 881 465 532 1878

Projects pending for environmental clearance

Name of the River Valley Infra-structure Thermal Industry Mining Total S. No State 1 A & N Islands - 1 - - - 1 Andhra -- 5 1 23 7 36 2 Pradesh Arunachal 1 - - - - 1 3 Pradesh 4 Assam - 14 - 11 - 25 5 Bihar ------6 Chandigarh ------7 Chhattishgarh - - 4 5 14 23 Dadar & - - - 2 - 2 8 Nagar Haveli 9 Daman & Diu - - - 1 - 1 10 Delhi ------11 Goa - - - - 1 1 12 Gujarat - 13 5 27 5 50 13 Haryana - 1 - 5 1 7 Himachal 5 1 - - 1 7 14 Pradesh Jammu & - - - 1 2 3 15 Kashmir 16 Jharkhand - 2 1 2 32 37 17 Karnataka 2 1 - 6 8 17 18 Kerala - 2 - 1 - 3 19 Lakshdeep ------Madhya 1 - 4 8 8 21 20 Pradesh 21 Maharashtra 2 1 4 12 15 34 22 Manipur 1 - - 1 - 2 23 Meghalaya - - - 1 - 1 24 Mizoram - - - 1 - 1 25 Nagaland - - - 1 - 1 26 Orissa - 1 1 10 29 41 27 Pondicherry - 1 - - - 1 28 Punjab - 3 - 8 - 11 29 Rajasthan - 2 3 8 40 53 30 Sikkim - 1 - - - 1 31 Tamil Nadu - 3 1 12 2 18 32 Tripura - - - 2 - 2 33 Uttar Pradesh - 6 5 5 2 18 34 Uttrakhand 2 14 1 2 7 26 35 West Bengal - - 2 12 - 14 36 Others - - - 1 - 1 Total 14 72 32 168 131 417

Projects Rejected during the last 3 years (2009-2011)

S.No Name of the State River Valley Infra-structure Thermal Industry Mining Total 1 A & N Islands ------2 Andhra Pradesh ------3 Arunachal Pradesh ------4 Assam ------5 Bihar 1 1 - - - 2 6 Chandigarh ------7 Chhattishgarh ------8 Dadar & Nagar Haveli ------9 Daman & Diu ------10 Delhi - 1 - - - 1 11 Goa ------12 Gujarat - - - - 3 3 13 Haryana ------14 Himachal Pradesh ------15 Jammu & Kashmir ------16 Jharkhand - - - - 1 1 17 Karnataka - - 1 - 2 3 18 Kerala - 1 - - - 1 19 Lakshdeep ------20 Madhya Pradesh ------21 Maharashtra - 1 - - 2 3

22 Manipur ------23 Meghalaya ------24 Mizoram ------25 Nagaland ------26 Orissa ------27 Pondicherry ------28 Punjab ------29 Rajasthan - - - - 6 6 30 Sikkim ------31 Tamil Nadu ------32 Tripura ------33 Uttar Pradesh ------34 Uttrakhand ------35 West Bengal ------36 Others ------Total 1 4 1 - 14 20

CONSERVATION OF DAL-NIGEEN LAKE IN SRINAGAR 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4985

SHRI NAND KUMAR SAI

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

(a) whether Government proposes a project for conservation and management of Dal-Nigeen Lake at Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the salient features of the said proposal; (d) the details of expenditure likely to be incurred on the said project; (e) the time by when the project will be completed; and (f) the extent to which tourism and families living in adjoining areas will be benefited from the said project?

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

(a) to (c) The Ministry is implementing the scheme of National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) for conservation and management of polluted and degraded lakes in urban and semi-urban areas of the country, through an integrated ecosystem approach.

The project on ‘Conservation and Management Plan for Dal-Nigeen Lake’ in Srinagar (J&K) was sanctioned by this Ministry in September, 2005 under NLCP, at a cost of Rs.298.76 crore on 100% central funding. J&K Lakes & Waterways Development Authority, Government of J&K, is the implementing agency for the project.

Different components approved under the project include sewerage & sewage treatment works, solid waste management, hydraulic works, restoration and development works, catchment area management, infrastructure facilities, public awareness etc.

(d) to (f) An expenditure of Rs.205.87 crore has been incurred till March, 2012 on implementation of the project. The project on completion in September, 2013, is envisaged to result in improved water quality and lake aesthetics, thereby benefitting tourism and other stakeholders including those in the lake catchment.

ILLEGAL PLANTING OF GM CORN BY MONSANTO 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4986

SHRI D. RAJA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Monsanto has taken up illegal planting of its HT GM corn (NK 603) inside University of Agriculture Sciences – Dharwad, as per Genetic Engineering Approval Committee’s (GEAC’s) monitoring team report; and (b) if so, the reasons for Government not blacklisting the company for violating the norms?

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

(a)& (b) No Sir; The Ministry had received a representation from M/s Coalition for GM Free India informing that M/s Monsanto India Limited has violated the biosafety norms by planting herbicide tolerant maize (NK603) as a comparator without the approval of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) during field trials with transgenic maize expressing stacked events, namely, MON89034 and NK603 at University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad in Karnataka. It was informed that the representation is based on the Report of the Compliance Committee which advised the applicant “Before planting NK 603 event treatment in future, the permission from competent authority may be obtained”. The matter was considered by the GEAC in the meeting held on 8.2.2012. On reviewing the facts of the case, the Committee noted that (i) the field trials with transgenic maize was conducted as per the experimental field design and protocol approved by the GEAC and Director, Directorate of Maize Research; and (ii) the recommendations of the Compliance Committee is on the basis of the recent policy decision taken by the GEAC not to allow unapproved events during field trials. Accordingly the Committee concluded that there has been no violation in the instant case.

MEASURES FOR CHECKING EXTINCTION OF WILDLIFE 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4987

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) the details of steps taken by Government to check the extinction of wildlife in the country; and (b) whether it is a fact that the provisions of the Wildlife Act, 1972 have no teeth to check the poachers and wildlife parts smugglers?

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

(a) The Government has taken the following steps to check the extinction of wild life in the country:

(i) A network of 668 Protected Areas, viz., National Parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves has been created in the country under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 to provide for in situ conservation of wildlife and its habitats.

(ii) A network of Zoos has been created in the country, which are financially supported and statutorily regulated by the Central Zoo Authority, to ensure ex situ conservation of important species of wild animals, including undertaking conservation breeding programmes for such species.

(iii) The Centrally Sponsored Scheme of 'Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats' includes the component 'Recovery Programmes for Saving Critically Endangered Species and Habitats' to provide for special measures to support such species. Presently, 16 species have been identified for support under this component which include Snow Leopard, Bustards (including Floricans), Dolphin, Hangul, Nilgiri Tahr, Marine Turtles, Dugongs and coral reefs, Edible Nest Swiftlet, Asian Wild Buffalo, Nicobar Megapode, Manipur Brow-antlered Deer, Vultures, Malabar Civet, Indian Rhinoceros, Asiatic Lion, Swamp Deer and Jerdon’s Courser.

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

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

(vi) Financial and technical assistance is extended to the State Governments under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz., ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats', ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ for providing better protection and conservation to wildlife.

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

(viii) The State Governments have been requested to strengthen the field formations and intensify patrolling in and around the Protected Areas.

(ix) The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has been set up for control of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife and its products.

(b) No, Sir.

CONDITIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO NAVI MUMBAI AIRPORT 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 4996

SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL

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

(a) whether Government had given environmental clearance for the proposed Navi Mumbai airport, under some specified conditions; (b) the conditions under which the NOC has been given; (c) whether these conditions have been complied with by the relevant authorities; (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) The proposal of Navi Mumbai International Airport at Maharashtra was accorded Environmental and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance on 22nd November 2010 after following due procedure under the Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 and CRZ Notification, 1991. Necessary conditions related to environmental safeguards were stipulated in the clearance letter. The major conditions include, mangrove plantation in an area of 615 ha and its protection, re-coursing of tidally influenced water body outlets from Ulwe river, traffic management, runoff management, regular monitoring of environmental parameters etc. As per information provided by the City and Industrial Development Corporation, Maharashtra, construction of the Airport is yet to start.

NATIONAL GANGA RIVER BASIN AUTHORITY 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 5087

SHRI SHIVANAND TIWARI SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD

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

(a) whether it is a fact that water requirements of nearly 40 per cent population of the country is fulfilled from the Ganga river basin; (b) if so, whether it is also a fact that for the proper development and expansion of this river basin, the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) was set up in the year 2009; (c) if so, whether it is also a fact that till April, 2012 only three meetings of the Authority have been held; and (d) if so, the facts in this regard and the details of decisions taken in each meeting and the current status of implementation of each decision?

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

(a) Ganga Basin is the largest river basin of the country with catchment lying in 11 States covering about 26% of the Indian landmass and 43% of the irrigable area with a population of nearly 500 million.

(b) & (c) The Central Government has constituted the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) in February 2009 as an empowered body to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a holistic river basin approach. So far three meetings of Authority have been convened on 9th October 2009, 1st November 2010 and 17th April, 2012 respectively.

(d) The Authority in its first meeting decided that under Mission Clean Ganga it will be ensured that by 2020 no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluents flow into Ganga. Projects amounting to nearly Rs. 2600 crore have been sanctioned so far under the NGRBA for development of sewer networks, sewage treatment plants, electric crematoria, community toilets, development of river fronts, etc in the States of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. Out of 55 sanctioned projects, 7 projects have been completed and remaining projects are in various stages of implementation. Further, based on the decisions of NGRBA in the first meeting, the Central Government has set up a Standing Committee under NGRBA to monitor implementation and an Empowered Steering Committee to approve pollution abatement projects on fast track basis; declared Gangetic Dolphin as the national aquatic animal.

Based on the decision in the second meeting, it has been decided to share costs towards operation and maintenance of the assets created under NGRBA between Centre and the States in the ratio of 70:30 and discontinued three hydro-electric power projects of Lohari Nagpala, Bhaironghati and Pala Maneri on Bhagirathi River.

In the third meeting it was decided that with respect to the proposed hydro-electric projects in the upper reaches of river Ganga, a multi-disciplinary group including the concerned State Governments would examine the reports prepared by the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee and Wild Life Institute of India for drawing up a roadmap for further action.

SCHEME FOR DEVELOPMENT OF DESERT AREAS 22nd May, 2012

RSQ 5093

SHRI ASHK ALI TAK

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

(a) the total area under deserts along with the percentage of population density therein in the country, state-wise; (b) whether any special scheme has been included/proposed in the coming Five Year Plan for development of desert land;

(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) A High level Technical Committee set up in 1994 under the Chairmanship of Prof. Hanumantha Rao identified 45.7949 m. ha desert areas in 235 blocks of 40 districts in 7 States, namely Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka and Rajasthan. No information is available about the percentage of population density in such area.

(b), (c) & (d) No, Sir. However, the Department of Land Resources has been implementing an area development programme viz. Desert Development Programme on a project mode on watershed approach with effect from 1.04.1995. The basic objective of the programme is to mitigate the adverse effects of desertification and adverse climatic conditions through rejuvenation of the natural resource base of identified desert areas. Since 1995-96 to 2006-07, 15746 projects covering an area of 78.73 lakh hectare have been sanctioned and Rs. 3127.67 crore has been released upto 2011-12 to implement these projects.

The Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development’s Desert Development Programme has since been consolidated along with other area development programmes namely, Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP) and Integrated Wastelands Development Programme (IWDP) into a single modified programme called ‘Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) with effect from 26.02.2009. Due priority to desert areas is being given while selecting the projects under IWMP. The IWMP is being implemented under Common Guidelines for Watershed Development Projects, 2008.

HIGHER ALLOCATION FOR FIGHTING ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS 14th August, 2012

RSQ *63

SHRI RAMCHANDRA PRASAD SINGH

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has taken a decision to spend 2.6 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to deal with the environmental crisis in the country; (b) if so, the time by which implementation of this decision will commence; (c) the quantum of annual expenditure in case this decision is already in force since its inception; and (d) the names of the schemes on which this amount is being spent and the average annual expenditure?

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

(a) to (d) The Twelfth Five Year Plan, including its sectoral allocations, is yet to be finalized by the Government. However, Annual Plan allocation of the Ministry of Environment and Forests for 2011-12, last year of the 11th Five Year Plan, stood at Rs. 2300.00 crore, which is 0.03% of the GDP. A statement giving scheme-wise details of the allocation is laid on the table of the House.

STATEMENT REFFERED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) to (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 63 REGARDING "HIGHER ALLOCATION FOR FIGHTING ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS" BY SHRI RAMCHANDRA PRASAD SINGH FOR ANSWER ON 14.8.2012.

(Rs. Crore) Sl.No Name of the Scheme Nature of the Scheme Outlay Environment 1 Environmental monitoring and Governance CS 53.50 2 Pollution Abatement CS 49.76 3 Research & Development for Conservation & Development CS 68.94 4 Conservation of Natural Resources and Ecosystems CSS 80.00 5 Environment Information, Education & Awareness CS 79.58 6 Environmental Management in Heritage, Piligrimage and Tourist Centres CSS 0.01

IncludingTaj Protection 7 International Co-operation Activities CS 71.82 8 National Coastal Management Programme CS 267.60 9 National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) CSS 701.71 Total Environment & Ecology 1372.92 Forestry and Wildlife 10 Grants in aid to Forests & Wildlife institutions CS 122.50 11 Capacity building in forestry sector CS 84.10 12 Gregarious Flowering of Muli (Melacannabaccifera) Bamboos) CSS 0.00 13 Intensification of Forest Management (former IFPS) Scheme CSS 65.00 14 Strengthening Forestry Divisions CS 18.27 15 Strengthening of Wildlife Division CS 29.00 16 Integrated Development of Wild Life Habitats CSS 70.00 17 Project Tiger CSS 162.71 18 Project Elephant CSS 21.50 19 National Afforestation & Eco-Development Board (NAEB) CS 27.00 20 National Afforestation Programme CSS 303.00 21 Afforestation through PRIs (Panchyat Van Yojna) CSS 0.00 22 Animal Welfare CS 24.00 Total Forestry & Wildlife 927.08 Grand Total Environment, Forests & Wildlife 2300.00 CS: Central Sector CSS: Centrally Sponsored Schemes

BAN ON USE OF LIVE ANIMALS FOR DISSECTION 14th August, 2012

RSQ *68

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) Whether it is a fact that the Ministry has banned the use of live animals in dissection and other experiments, in hospitals and educational and research institutes to stop the unwanted cruelty to them; and (b) If so, whether it will affect research and experiments which are required for the welfare of human beings?

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

(a) No, Sir. (b) Question does not arise.

MEASURES FOR SAVING TIGERS 14th August, 2012

RSQ *71

SHRIMATI

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

(a) the current tiger population in the country, sanctuary-wise/forest-wise; (b) whether it is a fact that tiger poaching incidents have increased in the past 18 months; (c) whether it is also a fact that in the absence of a stringent law, arrested poachers have managed to secure bail from the court and are back in business; and (d) the steps Government has taken to arrest the decline in tiger population and curb their poaching?

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. *71 ON MEASURES FOR SAVING TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 14.08.2012.

(a) The country level tiger population, estimated 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 all India estimation (2010), as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. The landscape-wise details of tiger estimation in the country for the years 2006 and 2010 are at Annexure-I.

(b) The details of tiger mortality, as reported by States, during the last one year, including the current year are at Annexure-II.

(c) No such reports have been received from States. (d) The milestone initiatives taken by the Government to protect and foster tiger conservation are at Annexure-III.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *71 ON MEASURES FOR SAVING TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 14.08.2012.

Details of tiger population for the years 2006 and 2010

State Tiger Population

2006 2010 Increase/ Decrease/ Stable Estimate Statistical Statistical Estimate Statistical Statistical (Number) Lower Upper Limit (Number) Lower Upper Limit Limit Limit 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 297 259 335 353 320 388 Stable landscape 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 10 6 14 Could not be assessed compared since it was not assessed in 2006. Central Indian 601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable landscape 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 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 Not assessed Not assessed Could not be assessed compared since it was not assessed in 2010.

Mizoram 6 4 8 5 (-)*** (-)*** (-)*** Stable Northern West 10 8 12 Not Not assessed Not assessed Could not be Bengal assessed compared since it was not assessed in 2010. North East Hills, 100 84 118 148 118 178 Increase and Brahmaputra landscape Sundarbans Not Not Not assessed 70 64 90 Could not be assessed assessed 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 REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *71 ON MEASURES FOR SAVING TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 14.08.2012.

Details of tiger mortality including poaching, seizure, natural and other causes, as reported by States, during the last one year, including the current year

Sl. No. State 2011 2012 (as on 9.8.2012) Poaching Natural & Poaching Natural & other causes including seizure other causes including seizure 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 0 5 Chhattisgarh 2 0 1 0 6 Jharkhand 0 0 0 0 7 Karnataka 3 3 5 4 8 Kerala 1 3 2 0 9 Madhya Pradesh 0 5 4 5 10 Maharashtra 4 2 7 4 11 Mizoram 0 0 0 0 12 Orissa 0 1 0 0 13 Rajasthan 0 1 0 0 14 Tamil Nadu 0 3 2 2 15 Uttarakhand 2 15 6 6 16 Uttar Pradesh 1 0 4 1 17 West Bengal 0 3 1 2 18 Haryana 0 0 1 0 TOTAL 16 40 34 27 Note:- Excludes seizure of one old trophy during the year (2011) in New Delhi.

ANNEXURE-III REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *71 ON MEASURES FOR SAVING TIGERS DUE FOR REPLY ON 14.08.2012.

Milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for fostering tiger conservation

Legal steps

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

2. Enhancement of punishment in cases of offence relating to a tiger reserve or its core area.

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 / home guards, apart from workforce comprising of local people, in addition to strengthening of communication / wireless facilities.

4. Constitution of the National Tiger Conservation Authority with effect from 4.09.2006, 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 6.6.2007 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 (Orissa) and 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. Besides, the States 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 States for strengthening tiger conservation, which apart from ongoing activities, interalia, include funding support to States for enhanced village relocation/rehabilitation package for people living in core or critical tiger habitats (from Rs. 1 lakh/family to Rs. 10 lakhs/family), rehabilitation/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/assessment are bench marks for future tiger conservation strategy.

9. An area of 34070.46 sq. km. has been notified by 17 Tiger States as core or critical tiger habitat under section 38V of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, as amended in 2006.

Financial steps

10. Financial and technical help is provided to the States under various Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz. Project Tiger and Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats for enhancing the capacity and infrastructure of the States 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/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 directions 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 58th meeting of the Standing Committee of the CITES at Geneva from 6th to 10th July, 2009, the CITES Secretariat has issued a notification to Parties to submit reports relating to compliance of Decisions 14.69 and 14.65 within 90 days with effect from 20.10.2009 (Progress made on restricting captive breeding operations of tigers etc.). Reintroduction of Tigers

17. As a part of active management to rebuild Sariska and Panna Tiger Reserves where tigers have become locally extinct, reintroduction of tigers / tigresses have been done.

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 29.2.2008, interalia, 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, the proposal for the said force has been approved by the competent authority for 13 tiger reserves. Rs. 93 lakhs each has been released to Corbett, Ranthambhore & Dudhwa Tiger Reserve for creation of STPF during 2008-09. Since then, the guidelines of the STPF have been revised for deploying forest personnel in place of Police as an option-II, with scope for involving local people like the Van Gujjars. During the year 2010-11 and 2011-12, an amount of Rs. 270 lakhs has been provided to the Similipal Tiger Reserve for raising, arming and deploying the STPF. The States of Karnataka and Maharashtra have already 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

1. Implementing a tripartite MOU with tiger States, linked to fund flows for effective implementation of tiger conservation initiatives.

2. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

4. 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.

5. Steps taken for modernizing the infrastructure and field protection, besides launching ‘M-STrIPES’ for effective field patrolling and monitoring.

6. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

7. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

8. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves.

9. 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.

10. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-11 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

11. Increase in the allocation for Project Tiger with additional components.

12. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas.

13. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi, a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity / tiger conservation.

14. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and Guwahati.

15. Launching of Phase-IV tiger reserve level monitoring.

VIOLATIONS TO RULES MADE UNDER FOREST (CONSERVATION) ACT, 1980 14th August, 2012

RSQ 503

SHRI BHAGAT SINGH KOSHIYARI

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

(a) whether various rules made under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 being violated due to promotion to environment tourism policy along with non-forest activities; (b) if so, the reaction of Government thereto; (c) whether Government has taken any step to check arbitrary deforestation in hilly States like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh in the name of promoting tourism; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the steps being taken by Government to maintain co-ordination between various rules of the Act and environment tourism and non-forest activities?

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

(a) & (b) Use of forest land for execution of non-forest activities as a part of promotion of environment tourism (eco-tourism) requires prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. Wherever, use of forest land for execution of non-forest activities in forest land for promotion of eco-tourism is required, the concerned State/ Union Territory Governments have to seek prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.

(c) &(d) As per the information received from the State Governments of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, arbitrary deforestation in the name of promotion of tourism has not been observed in these States.

(e) To promote ecologically compatible tourism, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has finalised guidelines on eco-tourism in and around protected areas. The same have been filed before the Hon'ble Supreme Court in the Special Leave Appeal (Civil) No. 21339 of 2011 in the matter of Ajay Dubey versus National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and Others.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF NATIONAL GANGA RIVER BASIN AUTHORITY 14th August, 2012

RSQ 504

SHRI PRABHAT JHA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the 'Ganga Action Plan' being run by Government to check pollution in Ganga river has proved to be an utter failure; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; (c) if not, the details thereof; (d) whether it is a fact that Government has constituted the National Ganga River Basin Authority; and (e) if so, the details of the expenditure incurred by the authority and its achievements till date?

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

(a) to (c) 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. An amount of Rs.1441.44 crore has been released towards implementation of various pollution abatement works in towns along the river Ganga and sewage treatment capacity of 1091 million litres per day (mld) has been created.

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 is 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.

(d) & (e) 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 NGRBA in its first meeting has resolved that under Mission Clean Ganga it will be ensured that by 2020 no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluents flow into Ganga and the investments required to create the necessary treatment and sewage infrastructure will be shared suitably between the Central and the State Governments. Projects amounting to Rs. 2598 crore have been sanctioned so far under the NGRBA programme. An expenditure of Rs. 391.37 crore has been made so far towards sanctioned projects in the States under the Authority. Besides, a project with World Bank assistance for abatement of pollution of river Ganga at an estimated cost of Rs. 7000 crore has been approved under the NGRBA for implementation in the States.

FOREST AREA IN RAJASTHAN 14th August, 2012

RSQ 505

SHRI ASHK ALI TAK

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

(a) the details of the amount allocated to Rajasthan by the Central Government for development of forests in the last three years; (b) the total forest area in Rajasthan in square kilometres; and (c) the increase in forest area in square kilometre in the last three years?

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

(a) The details of amount allocated to Rajasthan by the Central Government for development of forests in the last three years is annexed.

(b)The total forest area of Rajasthan is 32712.90 square kilometers.

(c)The increase in forest area in Rajasthan in last three year is 11.55 square kilometers

ANNEXURE

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 505 BY SHRI ASHK ALI TAK REGARDING “FOREST AREA IN RAJASTHAN” DUE FOR REPLY ON 14.08.2012. (Rs. In Lakhs) S. No. Name of the Scheme Funds Released by Government of India 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Forestry Sector 1. Sambhar wetland Project 91.87 120.57 74.35 2. Intensification of Forest Management Scheme 149.98 103.76 161.15 3. Tiger Project Ranthambore 10560.00 250.33 0.60 4. Tiger Project, Sariska 134.17 2118.60 - 5. Development of Ghana Bird Sanctuary 69.04 61.24 14.10 6. Maintenance of other Sanctuaries 393.58 258.77 257.31 7. Development of DNP 34.13 28.05 20.13 Grand total 11432.77 2941.32 527.64

COAL MINING IN FOREST AREAS IN MADHYA PRADESH 14th August, 2012

RSQ 506

DR. T.N. SEEMA

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

(a) whether Government has given permission to any company to start coal mining operations in the forests of Madhya Pradesh; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether the coal mining will affect the environment and wildlife in the forest area?

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

(a) & (b) Use of forest land for non-forest purpose, including coal mining, requires prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. Central Government so far accorded 59 final approvals involving diversion of 10,416.57 hectares of forest land and 15 in-principle approvals involving diversion of 3,360.164 hectares of forest land in Madhya Pradesh for coal mining.

(c) Coal mining does affect the environment, forests and wildlife in and around the coal mines. Central Government therefore, while according approvals under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for mining projects stipulates appropriate measures to mitigate impacts of mining on forests, wildlife and environment. Important among them are transfer and mutation of equivalent non-forest land in favour of State Forest Department (SFD) for creation of compensatory afforestation from the funds to be provided by the user agency; notification of such non-forest land transferred in favour of the SFD as Reserved Forest/ Protected Forest; realization of Net Present Value (NPV) of the diverted forest land from the concerned user agency for execution of appropriate activities for conservation, protection and management of forests and wildlife, 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.

LOSS OF FOREST COVER 14th August, 2012

RSQ 507

SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that there has been a loss of 367 sq. km. of forest cover between 2007 and 2009; (b) if so, whether implementation of our afforestation and conservation Programmes is not yielding the envisaged results of expanding green cover; and (c) whether the loss of 367 km happened in a few States or the alarming situation is equal percentage-wise divided amongst traditionally forest cover States?

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

(a) As per the India State of Forest Report 2011 there is a net loss of 367 Km2 of forest cover between the 2011 assessment (data period pertaining to 2008-2009) and 2009 assessment (data period pertaining to 2006-2007).

(b) & (c)The implementation of afforestation and conservation programmes for expanding green cover has in fact contributed towards increase in the forest cover. Hence, 15 States have registered aggregate increase of 500 Km2 in their forest cover with Punjab leading with increase of 100 Km2. However, the decline of forest cover to the extent of 867 Km2 in States such as Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram etc. is due to various reasons like shifting cultivation, rotational harvesting, biotic pressures etc. The name of States where there is decline in forest cover along with the reasons for decline in forest cover is given in Annexure I.

Annexure - I referred to in reply to part (c) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 507 due for answer on 14-08-2012 regarding ‘Loss of forest cover’

States/UTs wise decline in forest cover in the country and reasons therefor

S.No States Change from Major reasons for loss ISFR 2009 (km2) 1 Andhra Pradesh -281 Management interventions like harvesting of short rotation crops followed by new regeneration/plantations, forest clearances in some encroached areas. 2 Manipur -190 Shortening of Shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure. 3 Nagaland -146 Shortening of Shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure. 4 Arunachal Pradesh -74 Shortening of Shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure. 5 Mizoram -66 Shortening of Shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure. 6 Meghalaya -46 Shortening of Shifting cultivation cycle and biotic pressure. 7 Kerala -24 Rotational harvesting of Eucalyptus, Teak, Rubber, Acacia mangium etc. 8 Assam -19 Decrease in forest cover is mainly attributed to illicit felling, encroachment in insurgency affected areas and shifting cultivation practices 9 Tripura -8 Clearing of rubber plantation and shifting cultivation 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 forest areas. 14 Chandigarh -0.22 - Total -866.22

UNO MILLENNIUM PROGRAMME FOR CLIMATE CHANGE 14th August, 2012

RSQ 508

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that India is not able to achieve the target of UNO millennium programme; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; and (c) the strategy to fulfil the UNO millennium programme for climate change?

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

(a), (b) & (c) The United Nations Millennium Development Goal relating to ensuring environmental sustainability targets to integrate the principles of sustainable development into country policies and programmes and reverse the loss of environmental resources. The sustainable development principles are inbuilt in the National Environmental Policy, 2006. The various environmental regulations of our country take into consideration the issues of sustainable development, which are implemented through a rigorous process of impact assessment of developmental projects, while granting environmental and forestry clearances. Government is prepared to implement its international obligations in respect of climate change in accordance with the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibility.

NOISE POLLUTION LEVEL IN NAGPUR 14th August, 2012

RSQ 509

SHRI SANJAY RAUT

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENTAND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that in a survey conducted by Maharashtra Pollution Control Board noise pollution level in Nagpur city is gorwing at an alarming pace; (b) whether it is also a fact that this increased level of noise pollution can have behavioral implications on people and can also prove to be health hazard; and (c) if so, the appropriate action the Ministry is taking to control noise pollution in Nagpur in particular and across the country in general?

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

(a) to (c) Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) had monitored noise levels at 25 locations including 3 locations in Nagpur city from 14th December to 16th December, 2008. The noise levels were reported to range from 63.9 dB to 65.2 dB at Silence Zone, 73.9 dB to 74.5 dB at Commercial Zone and 67.1 dB to 68.7 dB at Residential Zone during the day time. The noise levels during the night time at Silence Zone ranged from 63.3 dB to 65.7 dB, at Commercial Zone at 67.3 dB and at Residential Zone ranging from 61.0 dB to 62.5 dB. The noise levels were found to be exceeding the prescribed standards. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has not carried out any epidemiological study of impact of noise pollution on human health. However, CPCB has prepared a road map for establishing 160 National Ambient Noise Monitoring Network (NANMN) in 25 metro-cities including Nagpur to monitor sound levels in specified urban areas.

CONSERVATION AND GROWTH OF FORESTS IN THE COUNTRY 14th August, 2012

RSQ 510

SHRI RAMCHANDRA PRASAD SINGH

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

(a) whether Government contemplates to obtain the active cooperation of tribals for the conservation and growth of forests in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government proposes to make any scheme for the conservation and growth of forests in the country with the cooperation of tribals; 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. The Ministry of Environment and forests seeks the full support, involvement and active cooperation of tribals for the conservation and growth of forest in the country.

(b), (c) and (d) 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 to be implemented through Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) involving the local people & tribal community. Besides, the Ministry has initiated the National Mission for a Green India (GIM), envisaged as one of the eight Missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). The implementation of GIM also involves active participation of people including tribal local communities in planning, implementation and monitoring.

BIO-DIVERSITY OF WESTERN GHATS 14th August, 2012

RSQ 511

SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI

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

(a) the details of bio-diversity of the Western Ghats; (b) whether Government has drawn any action plan for conservation and protection of the Western Ghats; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) the details of industies being allowed to be set up in and around Western Ghats; and (e) whether Government has ensured that there is no adverse impact of these industries on the bio-diversity of Western Ghats?

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

(a) The Western Ghats are internationally recognized as a region of immense global importance for the conservation of biological diversity, besides having areas of high geological, cultural and aesthetic values. The ecosystems of the Western Ghats include the tropical wet evergreen forests, the montane evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, etc. There are over 4,000 species of angiosperms (1500 endemic), 332 species of butterflies (37 endemic), 288 species of fishes (116 endemic), 156 species of amphibians (94 endemic), 225 species of Reptiles (97 endemic), 508 species of birds (19 endemic) and 137 species of mammals (14 endemic) reported from Western Ghats.

(b) and (c) The Government of India has taken several steps to conserve the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats. A large number of protected areas comprising national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, tiger reserves and elephant reserves have been established to provide stringent protection to both flora and fauna. Nearly 10% of the total area of Western Ghats is currently covered under the Protected Area category. The largest Protected Area in Western Ghats is the in Karnataka. The Silent Valley National Park in Kerala and the Kudremukh National Park in Karnataka are among the important tracts of virgin tropical evergreen forests in India, serving as the home to a healthy population of the globally threatened fauna.

(d) and (e) The Western Ghats are important from the standpoint of biodiversity conservation. For the purpose of ensuring protection of biodiversity of Western Ghats, there are some restrictions for setting up of industries in certain ecologically significant areas of Western Ghats, for example, there is a moratorium upto 31st December 2012 for consideration of projects from Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri areas of Maharashtra, and for consideration of mining projects in Goa. There is also a ban on consideration of mining projects in some districts of Karnataka in compliance of Hon’ble Supreme Court Orders dated 29.07.2011 and 26.08.2011.

MEASURES TAKEN FOR COMBATING LIGHT POLLUTION 14th August, 2012

RSQ 512

SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE:

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

(a) the measures undertaken by Government to combat light pollution; and (b) the details of steps that have been taken, so far?

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

(a) & (b): The Ministry of Environment and Forests/Central Pollution Control Board has not conducted any study to assess and combat the light pollution.

VACANT POST OF MEMBERS IN NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL 14th August, 2012

RSQ 513

DR. CHANDAN MITRA

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

(a) whether a few members of National Green Tribunal (NGT) have quit the Tribunal; (b) if so, the reasons therefor along with the number of vacant posts of members of NGT at present; and (c) the immediate steps taken by Government to fill the vacant posts of NGT and also to expedite the process of providing adequate amenities and conducive work environment for members of NGT?

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

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) So far, three Members have tendered their resignations in the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The reasons assigned by the three are: (i) for taking up new assignment (ii) no reason given (iii) personal inconvenience respectively. Resignation of the third Member has been kept in abeyance on his request. At present, 7 posts of Expert Member and 6 posts of Judicial Member are vacant in the NGT.

(c) A proposal for appointment of 6 Expert Members in the NGT has been sent to Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) for approval. The process for filling up of remaining vacancies of Members has already been initiated. The service conditions of the Members, NGT are governed by the National Green Tribunal (Manner of Appointment of Judicial and Expert Members, Salaries, Allowances and other Terms and Conditions of Service of Chairperson and other Members and Procedure for Inquiry) Rules, 2010 as amended from time to time.

PERMISSION FOR MINING IN FOREST LANDS 14th August, 2012

RSQ 514

SHRI K.N. BALAGOPAL

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

(a) whether Government allows mining in forest lands; and (b) if so, on what conditions?

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

(a) & (b) Use of forest land for mining requires prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. To mitigate impacts of mining on flora and fauna, approvals accorded under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for mining projects are subject to fulfilment of the following conditions:

(i) Legal status of forest land to remain unchanged. (ii) Creation and maintenance of compensatory afforestation as per guidelines from funds realised from the user agency. (iii) Transfer and mutation of non-forest land identified to raise compensatory afforestation in favour of Forest Department, if applicable. (iv) Notification of non-forest land identified to raise compensatory afforestation as Reserved Forest/Protected Forest under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 or local Forest Act. (v) Payment of Net Present Value (NPV) at the applicable rates. (vi) Undertaking to pay additional amount of NPV, if so determined.

(vii) Transfer of funds realized from user agency to ad-hoc CAMPA. (viii) User Agency to provide alternate fuel to the labourers and the staff working at the project site so as to avoid any damage & pressure on adjacent forest areas. (ix) The forest land shall not be used for any purpose other than that specified in the proposals. (x) Phased reclamation of mined area. (xi) Afforestation and fencing of safety zone area. (xii) Afforestation on one and half times degraded forest land in lieu of the area used for safety zone. (xiii) In case of underground mines, areas on surface to be fenced and afforested. (xiv) Gap planting and soil & moisture conservation activities to restock and rejuvenate the degraded open forests (having crown density less than 0.40), if any, located in the area within 100 m. from outer perimeter of the mining lease; (xv) De-silting of the village tanks and other water bodies located within five km from the mine lease boundary so as to mitigate the impact of siltation of such tanks/water bodies, whenever required; (xvi) Execution of following activities by the user agency at the project cost: (a) A plan containing appropriate mitigative measures to minimize soil erosion and choking of streams shall be prepared and implemented; (b) Planting of adequate drought hardy plant species and sowing of seeds in the appropriate area within the mining lease to arrest soil erosion; (c) Construction of check dams, retention /toe walls to arrest sliding down of the excavated material along the contour; (d) Stabilize the overburden dumps by appropriate grading/benching so as to ensure that angles of repose at any given place is less than 28o; and (xvii) Strict adherence to the prescribed top soil management. (xviii) Demarcation of lease area to be done on the ground at project cost using four feet high reinforced cement concrete pillars with serial numbers, forward & back bearings, distance from pillar to pillar and DGPS coordinates. (xix) Settlement of Rights, if any, in accordance with the provisions of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006. (xx) Rehabilitation of project affected families, if any. (xxi) Environmental clearance, if required. (xxii) Submission of annual self-monitoring report on compliance conditions to comply with the conditions stipulated in approval. (xxiii) The User Agency and the State Government to ensure compliance to provisions of the all Acts, Rules, Regulations and Guidelines, for the time being in force, as applicable to the project. Apart from the above–indicated standard conditions applicable to mining projects, Central Government also stipulate project specific conditions, to mitigate specific impact(s), if any, of mining projects.

CLEANING OF RIVER GANGA 14th August, 2012

RSQ 515

SHRI VIVEK GUPTA

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

(a) the details of the schemes to control the environmental pollution which is affecting agriculture production along with the break out of diseases because the and its subsidiary rivers which cross Bengal on their way into the sea pollutes the land of Bengal due to which ground water is being polluted continuously; (b) the details of the annual expenditure on the cleaning of the Ganges; (c) the details of the amount being spent in Bengal out of the total expenditure; and (d) the details of the expenditure spent under this head during the last three years?

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

(a) The need for revamping the river conservation program was widely recognized and it was felt necessary that a holistic approach based on river basin as the unit of planning may be adopted. Accordingly, the Government of

India has given Ganga the status of a National River and has constituted the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) in February 2009 under Section 3(3) of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

The NGRBA is a planning, financing, monitoring and coordinating body of the centre and the states. The objective of the NGRBA is to ensure effective abatement of pollution and conservation of the river Ganga by adopting a river basin approach for comprehensive planning and management.

The NGRBA program will be a multi-disciplinary initiative involving multiple dimensions of Ganga clean-up and conservation, and therefore will span across many sectors, including but not limited to social, environment, urban development, water resources, agriculture, industries, and energy. Program planning and implementation would therefore require working across ministerial/state/departmental boundaries and also across levels of government: central, state and local. The program activities would include both broad-based as well as locally targeted communications and community participation campaigns, and research to address the critical knowledge gaps. Keeping this in mind, the NGRBA operational institutions at central and state levels are envisaged to have the requisite operational flexibility and multi-sectoral skills. Depending upon degree of pollution etc., tributaries of Ganga will also be considered.

(b) to (d) Expenditure incurred during 2009-2010, 2010-2011 & 2011-2012 under the NGRBA Programme are Rs. 99.74 crores, Rs. 466.43 crores and Rs. 53.44 crores respectively. Of these, expenditure incurred in respect of West Bengal is Rs. 57.08 crores, Rs. 192.36 crores and Nil respectively.

It has been decided that from current financial year, year-wise allocation of fund would be made based on the Annual Action plan finalized in consultations with the 5 (five) basin states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhnad and West Bengal. For the financial year 2012-13, the annual allocation has been made for Rs. 512.50 crores under the NGRBA Programme.

RECOMMENDATIONS BY MADHAV GADGIL PANEL FOR WESTERN GHAT 14th August, 2012

RSQ 516

SHRI RAJEEV CHANDRASEKHAR

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

(a) whether the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel, headed by Ecologist Madhav Gadgil, has submitted its recommendations/report; (b) if so, by when Government will implement the recommendations of the Panel; (c) whether massive construction activity has been carried out over the Ghats zone, resulting in large-scale vegetation cutting etc; and (d) if so, the steps being taken by Government to preserve and protect the Western Ghats, which is about to be upgraded to the status of World Heritage sites?

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

(a) & (b) The Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel constituted by the Ministry of Environment and Forests has submitted its report to the Ministry. The Ministry is consulting the concerned State Governments, Central Ministries and has sought stakeholder comments and has not yet taken any view on the recommendations contained in the report. The Ministry is considering to constitute a High Level Committee to further examine the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel report.

(c) & (d) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has not received any complaints/representations in regard to massive construction activity resulting in large-scale vegetation cutting. However, all the developmental activities including construction activity as listed in the schedule of Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 under the Environment (Protection) Act 1986 require prior environmental clearance from the Central Government in respect of category A projects and from the State Level Environmental Impact Assessment Authority in respect of category B projects. The developmental activities requiring diversion of forest land and located near Protected Areas require relevant clearances under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 and Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The same regulations apply on the developmental activities including construction activity in the Ghats zones. The

Ministry has also imposed moratorium for consideration of projects from Ratanagiri and Sindhudurg districts of Maharashtra up to 31st December 2012. Further, some parts of the Western Ghats zone have now been listed in the UNESCO Natural World Heritage List.

POLICY FOR DISPOSAL OF E-WASTE 14th August, 2012

RSQ 517

SHRI

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

(a) whether Government has formulated any policy for the disposal of electronic wastes; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; and (d) the measures taken to check the increasing damage to the environment due (e) to electronic wastes?

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

(a) to (d) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified the E-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 for proper management and handling of e- waste. The concept of Extended Producer 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 collection 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 Committees. Waste generated is required to be sent or sold to a registered or authorized recycler or re-processor having environmentally sound facilities. The guidelines for Environmentally Sound Management of e-waste, published by CPCB, provide approach and methodology for environmentally sound management of e-waste. MoEF is implementing a Scheme to provide financial assistance for setting up of treatment, disposal and storage facility for hazardous and integrated recycling facilities for E-waste on public private partnership mode.

FOREST- VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT SCHEME 21st August, 2012

RSQ *122

SHRI FAGGAN SINGH KULASTE

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

(a) whether any forest- village development scheme has been prepared in the country; (b) if so, the total number of forest-villages for which the development scheme has been prepared; and (c) the details of implementation of the scheme during the last three years, State-wise?

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. 122 BY SHRI FAGGAN SINGH KULASTE REGARDING FOREST VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT SCHEME DUE FOR R EPLY ON 21.08.2012.

(a) Yes Sir, As per information provided by Ministry of Tribal Affairs which is the agency for development of Forest Villages in the country, the programme for development of Forest villages was launched during 2005-06 as a one time measure for integrated development of forest villages with a view to raise the Human Development index (HDI) of the inhabitants of the Forest Villages and to provide basic facilities and services. Under the programme, infrastructure work relating to basic services and facilities viz. approach roads, healthcare, primary education, minor irrigation, rain water harvesting, drinking water, sanitation , community halls, etc. are taken up for implementation.

(b) The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has approved proposals covering 2, 423 forest villages in 12 States.

(c) Under this programme, funds are released from the head of account of the special area programme “ Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub Plan (SCA to TSP)”. State-wise fund released during the last three years is annexed.

ANNEXURE AS REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 122 BY SHRI FAGGAN SINGH KULASTE REGARDING FOREST VILLAGE DEVELOPMENT SCHEME DUE FOR REPLY ON 21.08.2012.

Details of fund released during the last three years (2009-10 to 2011-12) (Rs. In Lakhs) S. No. State Funds Released 1. Chhattisgarh 2797.18 2. Gujarat 1351.96 3. Mizoram 202.50 WATER 4. Uttar Pradesh 151.14 POLLU Total 4502.78 TION 21st August, 2012

RSQ *134

SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE

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

The details of steps taken by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and its branch offices across the country against persons/organisations responsible for water pollution beyond permissible limits during last three years, State-wise?

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

A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 134 DUE FOR REPLY ON 21.08.2012 REGARDING WATER POLLUTION RAISED BY SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE.

During the last three years, i.e. from 2009-10 to 2011-12, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued 195 directions under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to the violating industries. CPCB has also issued 97 directions to State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)/Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) under section 18(1) (b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 for directing the non-compliant units for taking corrective action.

The State-wise details of directions issued are at Annexure.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 134 DUE FOR REPLY ON 21.08.2012 REGARDING WATER POLLUTION RAISED BY SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE.

STATE-WISE SUMMARY OF DIRECTIONS ISSUED

State Years 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Wat Wat Wat E(P)A er E(P)A er E(P)A er ct* Act ct* Act ct* Act ** ** ** Andhra 1 2 3 2 3 2 Pradesh Arunacha 1 - - - - - l Pradesh Assam - 1 4 1 5 Bihar - - - - 2 - Chhattisg 3 2 12 - 4 - arh Daman - - - - 1 - Diu & DNH Gujarat - 1 3 1 3 3 Haryana 2 1 - 1 1 1 Himachal 1 - - - 2 - Pradesh Jharkhan - 1 - - 3 2 d Karnatak - - 1 1 1 2 a Kerala 1 1 - 1 1 1 Madhya - - 4 - 4 4 Pradesh Maharash 1 2 10 8 9 7 tra Meghala ------ya Orissa - 1 - 1 3 1 Punjab 2 3 2 1 3 1 Rajasthan - - 2 2 3 3 Sikkim 2 1 - - - - Tamil - 1 2 4 12 8 Nadu Uttar 3 3 27 2 30 7 Pradesh Uttarakha 1 - 4 4 3 1 nd West 1 1 5 1 4 3 Bengal TOTAL 19 21 79 30 97 46 * - Directions issued under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. ** - Directions issued under Section 18 (1) (b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

SECTOR-WISE FOREST ADVISORY COMMITTEES 21st August, 2012

RSQ *135

SHRI KANWAR DEEP SINGH:

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

(a) whether Government has recently rejected the suggestions of the Group of Ministers (GoM) to form sector- wise forest Advisory Committees to speed up the pace of the project approval process; (b) if so, the grounds on which such a proposal of GoM has been rejected; (c) whether Government has since evolved any new mechanism to give clearance to coal, mining and power sector related projects; 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 THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 135 BY SHRI KANWAR DEEP SINGH REGARDING ‘SECTOR-WISE FOREST ADVISORY COMMITTEE’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 21.08.2012

(a) and (b) The Group of Ministers (GoM) constituted to consider the environmental and developmental issues relating to coal mining and other development projects in its sixth meeting held on 1st March 2012 inter-alia recommended that the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) will examine whether they can constitute more than one Advisory Committee for faster forest clearances.

In the seventh meeting held on 30th May 2012, the GoM was informed that their suggestion for constitution of more than one Advisory Committees has been carefully considered by the MoEF. Since there are not many pending cases with Forest Advisory Committee, MoEF did not find any need to constitute additional committee at this stage. The GoM therefore, recommended that MoEF should constitute additional committees, as and when required.

(c) and (d) Proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose, including for coal, mining and power sector related projects are examined in accordance with the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, the Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 and the guidelines issued under the afore-mentioned Act. No separate mechanism to process the proposals seeking approval under the afore-mentioned Act for diversion of forest land for coal, mining and power sector related projects has been evolved by the MoEF.

AMENDMENT IN WILDLIFE PROTECTION ACT 21st August, 2012

RSQ 965

SHRI ISHWAR SINGH

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

(a) whether in order to check poaching of wild animals, Government proposes to amend the Wildlife Protection Act; (b) if so, the details of wild animals killed or found dead in the past three years, year-wise; (c) whether the existing Wildlife Protection Act has completely failed to put a check on such killings: and (d) if so, the immediate steps that would be taken to check killings of wild animals across the country?

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

(a) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has proposed amendments in the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, inter alia, for incorporation of the provisions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of wild fauna and flora (CITES) in the Act, and for enhancing the penalties for violation of any provisions of the Act

(b) The responsibility of management and protection of forests and wildlife is vested with the State/Union Territory Governments. The State Forest Departments deal with the forest and wildlife offences and related issues. The details of wild animals killed or found dead are not compiled at the level of the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

(c) No Sir.

(e) Does not arise in view of (c) above

SAFE DISPOSAL OF E-WASTE 21st August, 2012

RSQ 966

SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

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

(a) what constitutes e-waste and what are the new rules for safe disposal of e-waste; (b) the system and rules that govern recycling of such e-waste to control any kind of harmful effects on the people in general, and children and women, in particular; and (c) whether certain guidelines have been framed and circulated to ensure that all such rules are followed in letter and spirit to control any of its harmful effects on the public in general?

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

(a) to (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified the E-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 for proper management and handling of e- waste. These Rules have come in to force from 1st May 2012. As per these Rules, 'e-waste' means waste electrical and electronic equipment, whole or in part or rejects from their manufacturing and repair process, which are intended to be discarded.

The concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) has been enshrined in 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 Committees. Waste generated is required to be sent or sold to a registered or authorized recycler or re-processor having environmentally sound facilities.

The guidelines on implementation of E-Waste Rules, 2011 have been prepared by the Central Pollution Control Board and uploaded on the website. The guidelines provide approach for setting up collection mechanism, dismantling and recycling operations.

WET AND MARSHY LAND IN MAHARASHTRA 21st August, 2012

RSQ 967

SHRI ISHWARLAL SHANKARLAL JAIN:

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

(a) whether Government has identified wet and marshy land in Maharashtra; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether marshy lands exists in several such forests, which are always water logged or have rivers around?

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

(a) & (b). Yes Sir, Considering the importance of wetlands, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has identified three wetlands viz Ujni, Nalganga and Jayakawadi from the state of Maharashtra for conservation and management under the National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP).

(c) Marshy lands do exist in such forests as abundance of water at least for a part of year is a single dominant factor. They need not be water logged or have rivers around but need to support hydrophytes and have their substrate predominantly of undrained hydric soils.

FORMATION OF EPA 21st August, 2012

RSQ 968

SHRIMATI VASANTHI STANLEY

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

(a) what is India’s future plan for solid waste management; (b) whether India is taking effective steps in reduction of green house gas emission; and (c) whether India would come forward to form Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)?

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

(a) : Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000 and the Plastic Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 to ensure proper collection, storage, segregation, transportation, processing and disposal of municipal solid waste including plastic waste. Under these Rules, the municipal authorities are responsible for setting up, operationalisation and coordination of waste management system. Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000 have, inter-alia, suggested technologies for solid waste management. Ministry of Urban Development is implementing the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and the projects eligible for JNNURM assistance include environmental improvement and solid waste management.

(b) : Government of India has launched the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) in 2008 to achieve sustainable development with co-benefits in terms of climate change. Government follows the policy of sustainable development which inter-alia include promotion of energy efficiency, appropriate mix of fuels and primary energy sources including renewable sources, efficient transport etc. Further, States are encouraged to prepare State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCC) in order to address the adverse effects of climate change at the State level.

(c) : There is no such proposal for setting up of Environment Protection Agency.

POLLUTION OF YAMUNA RIVER 21st August, 2012

RSQ 969

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the Coliform Index of the water of Yamuna in Delhi and surroundings is around 1 crore and the permissible limit for potable water is 50 and for bathing purpose in 500; (b) whether the Ministry has any immediate plan of action to minimise the pollution level of Yamuna in this context; and (c) if so, the details thereof, if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) As per the analysis of the regular monitoring undertaken by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), river water quality of Yamuna River deteriorates especially in its stretch between Wazirabad barrage at Delhi till its confluence with Chambal River in Uttar Pradesh (U.P.). High count of Total and Faecal Coliform, which are above the permissible levels, along with no or very low Dissolved Oxygen level in the river water is due to wastewater discharges in the river Yamuna, predominantly from domestic sources. The water quality of the river shows improvement only during monsoon period.

(b) & (c) To supplement the efforts of State Governments 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 (JICA) in a phased manner. YAP-I, which commenced in April, 1993 , was completed in Feb, 2003 at a total cost of Rs. 682 crore covering various pollution abatement works, including creation of Sewage Treatment capacity of 753.25 million litres per day (mld). YAP-II was approved in 2003 at an estimated cost of Rs. 624 crores with major items of work such as rehabilitation of sewerage network and Sewage Treatment Plants

(STPs) and construction of new STPs. Further, under YAP-III project for Delhi with an estimated cost of Rs. 1656 crores has been approved. CONSERVATION OF RIVERS 21st August, 2012

RSQ 970

SHRI THAAWAR CHAND GEHLOT

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

(a) the names of the big rivers of the country which are highly polluted by industrial pollution, State-wise; (b) what are the Government schemes which are under implementation for purification and conservation of water of these rivers and number and names of the schemes which are under consideration, State-wise ; (c) whether Government has implemented schemes with foreign assistance to save the rivers from industrial pollution; and (d) if so, the details thereof ?

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

(a) On the basis of criteria evolved by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and monitoring undertaken by CPCB, polluted stretches of rivers have been identified, a table showing the State-wise list of such polluted rivers is given as Annexure-I.

(b) The schemes sanctioned for conservation of rivers includes construction of Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), laying of sewer lines, Low Cost Sanitation (LCS) etc. 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 pollution abatement in identified river stretches under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). Inclusion of additional rivers/towns under the Plan is a continuous process based on proposals received from State Governments, the funds available under the Plan, degree of pollution, etc. Details of projects received and sanctioned during the last three years are given as Annexure-II.

(c) and (d) External assistance from bilateral/ multilateral agencies has been availed of from time to time by the Government for conservation of rivers. For Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase-I, loan assistance of Yen 17.77 billion and for YAP Phase-II, loan assistance of Yen 13.33 billion has been provided by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). For pollution abatement of River Ganga at Varanasi, loan assistance of Yen 11.184 billion has been availed from JICA. A project with World Bank assistance for abatement of pollution of river Ganga at an estimated cost of Rs. 7000 crore has been approved in April 2011 with the World Bank contribution of US $ 1 billion for the project.

Annexure-I referred to in reply to part (a) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 970 to be answered on Tuesday, the 21st August, 2012 on ‘Conservation of rivers’

State-wise details of polluted river stretches

Sl. No. Name of State Name of the River No. of polluted stretches 1 Andhra Pradesh Godavari, Krishna, Manjira, Musi, Maner, Nakkavagu, Pennar and 9 Tungabhadra 2 Assam Bharalu, Burhidihing, Deepar bill and Kalong 4 3 Chandigarh Attawa choe, Patiala ki Rao and Sukhna choe 3 4 Delhi Yamuna 1 5 Gujarat Ambika, Anas, Amlakhadi, Bhogavo, Baleshwar Khadi, Dhadar, Daman 19 Ganga, Khari, Kaveri, Kim, Kolak, Mindhola, Mahi, Panam, Shedi, Sabarmati, and Tapi 6 Haryana Ghaggar, Gurgaon canal, Markanda, Western Yamuna canal, and 5 Yamuna 7 Himachal Beas, Markanda and Sukhna, 3 Pradesh 8 Madhya Betwa, Chambal, Kshipra, Khan, Kalisot, Mandakini, Tons and Narmada 9 Pradesh 9 Maharashtra Bhima, Godavari, Mula & mutha, Pawana, Panchganga, Patalganga, 28 Indrayani, Koyna, Kundalika, Kalu, Kanhan, Kolar, Mithi, Tapi, Girna, Nira, Weinganga, Wardha, Krishna, Purna, Nira, Chandrabhaga, Venna

river, Ulhas, Rangavali and Bhatsa 10 Punjab Satluj and Ghaggar 2 11 Tamil Nadu Adyar, Coovum, Cauvery, Noyyal, Vaigai, Tambiraparani, Bhavani and 9 Palar 12 Uttar Yamuna, Hindon, Western kali (Partly Covered), Kali nadi eastern, 12 Pradesh Bagad, Ganga, Gomti, Ramganga, Saryu and Rihand 13 Karnataka Bhadra, Tunga, Tungabhadra, Laxmantirtha, Kali, Krishna, Hundri, 11 Kundu, Arkavati and Malprabha 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 Orissa Kathjodi, Brahmani, Mahanadi and Kuakhai 4 24 Pondicherry 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 in reply to part (b) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 970 to be answered on Tuesday, the 21st August, 2012 on ‘Conservation of rivers’.

Status of projects proposals received and sanctioned in the last 3 years and current financial year for pollution abatement of rivers under National River Conservation Plan and National Ganga River Basin Authority

S.No. State No. of projects received No. of projects Sanctioned project cost sanctioned (Rs. in crore) 1. Andhra Pradesh 1 - - 2. Bihar 5 4 441.86 3. Delhi 3 3 1662.69 3. Gujarat 2 - - 4. Haryana 3 3 221.97 5. Maharashtra 7 1 74.29 6. Madhya Pradesh 1 1 6.20 7. Punjab 17 12 501.64 8. Rajasthan 1 1 149.59 9. Sikkim 3 2 84.91 10. Uttar Pradesh 9 8 1353.81 11. Uttarakhand 13 13 143.73 12. West Bengal 29 28 673.90

RESTORATION OF LAKES IN KARNATAKA 21st August, 2012

RSQ 971

SHRI RAJEEV CHANDRASEKHAR

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

(a) whether Government has identified any lake in Karnataka, especially in Bengaluru, for restoration under the National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP); (b) if so, the details of the scheme and the lakes marked for restoration; and (c) the timelines for completion of the restoration projects in Bengaluru?

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

(a) & (b) This Ministry is implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) for conservation and management of polluted and degraded lakes in urban and semi-urban areas of the country on 70:30 funding pattern.

Out of the proposals received from the State of Karnataka, projects for conservation of 16 lakes have been approved at a total cost of Rs.69.18 crore, which includes lakes of Bengaluru, namely Vengaiahkere, Nagavara, Jarganahalli, Lalbagh, Bellandur, Gowramma and Hombalamma. An amount of Rs.39.16 crore has been released till March, 2012 on implementation of lake projects in Karnataka.

(c) The projects for conservation of four lakes in Bengaluru have since been completed.

CARRYING CAPACITY OF COUNTRY’S COASTLINE 21st August, 2012

RSQ 972

SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI

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

(a) whether the Ministry has decided to assess the carrying capacity of India’s coastline before allowing multi- sector industries to come up along the coast in the designated areas; and (b) If so, the details thereof, State-wise, especially in coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh including Visakhapatnam?

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

(a) & (b) No carrying capacity study of India’s coastline is proposed. However, while considering the grant of environmental clearance to projects requiring foreshore facilities, the cumulative Impact of the existing activities in the vicinity and of the proposed activity are taken into account. Based on this, suitable mitigation measures are stipulated. Further, MoEF has issued CRZ Notification, 2011 on 6th January, 2011 which prohibits even the foreshore facilities in high eroding coastal stretches.

PROTECTION OF ANIMALS AT KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK 21st August, 2012

RSQ 973

SHRI KUMAR DEEPAK DAS

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

(a) the number of animals killed in various national sanctuaries including the Kaziranga National Park (KNP) during the last flood; (b) whether the authority has failed to make advance arrangements to protect the animals in Kaziranga National Park (KNP) in spite of the experience of the devastating flood of 1988; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) the details of action taken to free the illegal encroachment of land, checking pollution and putting a stop on killing of animals including rhinos poaching, in KNP; and (e) whether Government has any proposal for inclusion of the foot-hills of Karbi Anglong under KNP?

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

(a) Mortality of wild animals due to flood has been reported during the year only in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (Assam), which includes the Kaziranga National Park. As reported by the State, a total of 631 animal deaths have occurred in Kaziranga due to high floods during June-July, 2012, and the details are at Annexure-I.

(b) & (c) Flood is a recurring natural phenomenon in Kaziranga which creates a variety of habitats suitable for different species. Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, funding support is provided to the reserve, which, interalia, includes flood mitigation measures. The current floods brought in much more water than the ecological requirement of the floodplain habitat, resulting in mortality of wild animals as well as damage to physical infrastructure like roads, anti-poaching camps, artificial high grounds etc. During similar high floods of 1988 and 1998 in the said area, mortality of 1203 and 652 wild animals respectively, was recorded by the State.

(d) & (e) Advisories/guidelines have been issued to States, including Assam, under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, vis-à-vis the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to protect/conserve the habitat from various decimating factors, like encroachment, ecologically unsustainable land use and poaching. Further, the State of Assam has also been advised to propose the Karbi-Anglong Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve with a view to improve its conservation status.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 973 ON PROTECTION OF ANIMALS AT KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK DUE FOR REPLY ON 21.08.2012.

Details of animal death recorded during high flood in Kaziranga National Park during June-July, 2012 (as reported by State)

Sl. No. Species Total 1. Rhino 19 2. Elephant 1 3. Swamp deer 11 4. Buffallo 4 5. Hog deer 529 6. Sambar 22 7. Wild boar 34 8. Porcupine 5 9. Hog badger 3 10. Python 2 11. Fox 1 TOTAL 631

ENCROACHMENT OF FOREST LAND IN HIMACHAL PRADESH 21st August, 2012

RSQ 974

SHRI P. BHATTACHARYA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that there are 12701 cases of encroachment involving 4107.73 hectares of forest land in various districts of Himachal Pradesh due to negligence of concerned officials of the forest department; (b) the names of the persons who are involved in encroachment of forest land by less than 10 bighas and by more than 10 bighas with their respective districts/ tehsils/villages, (c) whether it is a fact that Hon’ble High Court of Himachal Pradesh in its judgement has taken serious note of the menace of encroachment of forests land; and (d) if so, the details of action Government is taking in this regard?

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

(a) There are about 14100 cases of encroachment involving approximately 4600 hectares of forest land in various districts of Himachal Pradesh.

(b) Information regarding name of persons involved in encroachment of forest land is not collated at the level of the Ministry.

(c) The Hon’ble High Court of Himachal Pradesh has taken note of menace of encroachment involving forest areas more than 10 bighas.

(d) Himachal Forest Department takes action as per law to vacate the encroachment on forest land. The status of encroachments involving more than 10 bighas is enclosed as Annexure-A and details of other cases is enclosed as Annexure-B.

Annexure-A reffered to part (d) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 974 asked by Shri P. Bhattacharya regarding Encroachment of forest land in Himachal Pradesh

District-wise position of FIRs registered as per Hon'ble High Court order on 30.06.2012 for encroachment cases of more than 10 bighas

S D C D FIR lodged Demarcation Cases filed in r is i i / Court . t r v investigation N ri c i done o c l s P T P T P T . t e i r o r o r o o e t e t e t n v a v a v a i l i l i l o o o u u u s s s 1 B B B 8 8 8 8 4 4 il i i a l l s a a p s s u p p r u u r r W 5 5 5 5 4 4 L

H . p u r T 1 1 1 1 8 8 o 3 3 3 3 t a l 2 C C C 2 2 2 2 2 2 h h h 6 6 5 6 5 5 a a a m m m b b b a a a D 1 1 1 1 8 8 a 1 1 1 1 l h o u s i e B 3 3 3 3 3 3 h a r m o u r C 3 3 1 1 6 6 h 4 4 5 5 u r

a h T 7 7 5 5 4 4 o 4 4 4 5 2 2 t a l 3 H H H 0 0 0 0 0 0 a a a m m m ir i i p r r u p p r u u r r T 0 0 0 0 0 0 o t a l 4 K D N 8 8 8 8 8 8 a / u n s r g h p r a u a l r a P 1 1 1 1 1 1 a l a m p u r H D 1 1 1 1 1 1 a e 7 7 7 7 6 6 m h i r r a p u r T 2 2 2 2 2 2 o 6 6 6 6 5 5 t a l 5 L K L 5 5 5 5 1 1 a u a h l h a l o u u u l l T 5 5 5 5 1 1 o t a l 6 K K K 3 3 1 3 3 3 u u u 5 5 1 5 5 5 ll l l 3 3 9 3 3 3 u l l u u S 1 1 2 2 1 1 e 5 5 9 9 5 5 r 9 9 9 9 a j P 3 3 1 3 1 1 a 2 2 4 2 1 1 r v a t i * R A 4 4 4 4 4 4 a n 5 5 5 5 5 5

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n u k a j i R 5 5 5 5 5 5 a 7 7 7 7 7 7 j g a r h T 6 6 7 7 7 7 o 6 5 1 1 1 1 t a l 1 S R K 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 h a o 9 9 9 9 i m t m p g l u a a r r h R 1 1 1 1 0 0 a 7 7 7 7 m 9 9 9 9 p u r S S h h i i m m l l 2 2 1 1 1 1 a a 4 4 4 4 4 4 T h e 1 1 o 3 3 6 6 g 1 1 5 5 2 2 R o h 3 3 1 2 r 9 9 8 1 u 4 4 5 0 0 0 C h o p 3 3 1 1 a 2 2 5 8 l 4 4 5 6 0 0 T o 1 1 t 0 0 6 6 a 7 7 1 7 1 1 l 1 1 7 3 6 6 G . T o t 2 2 1 1 1 1 a 5 4 6 9 2 3 l 0 9 1 4 9 3 : 0 9 8 7 0 6 * 4 cases in Rampur dropped due to death of 4 occupants. Fresh FIRs are being lodged against the LRs.

(*)1 FIR in Paonta Divn has been deleted as the area is below 10 bighas.

Annexure - B reffered to part (d) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 974 asked by Shri P. Bhattacharya regarding Encroachment of Forest land in Himachal Pradesh

Position of encraochment cases of less than 10 bighas

DFO-cum-Collector Revenue Court Total

No Area No Area No. Area . (in . (in (in ha.) ha.) ha.) a) CasesChalla 97 1886.8 57 1058. 155 2944.87 ned 51 2 86 06 37 82 b)Cases decided/ Order 60 1181.8 18 374.7 787 1556.63 passed 21 57 52 83 3 91 c)Cases in 30 621.35 89 132.9 391 7543.31 which 21 53 4 59 5 42 eviction obtained

CONSERVATION OF NARCONDUM HORNBILLS 21st August, 2012

RSQ 975

SHRIMATI JAYA BACHCHAN

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

(a) whether environmentalists have launched a campaign to protect about 300 Narcondum Hornbills, a bird found in small area in the Andamans only; (b) whether National Board for Wildlife has recently been requested to reconsider a proposal for laying of a road through the virgin forest for installation of a Coastal Surveillance Radar where these birds have been living for centuries; and (c) whether any alternative would be found out to save these birds from extinction?

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

(a) The Ministry of Environment and Forests has received representations from environmentalists urging the need for conservation of the Narcondam Hornbills in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

(b) &(c) The Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife in its 25th Meeting held on 13th June 2012 had considered the proposal regarding construction of a RADAR in the Narcondam Islands. However, no final decision on the matter has been taken.

SPECIAL TIGER PROTECTION FORCE IN KARNATAKA 21st August, 2012

RSQ 976

SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Karnataka has acquired the distinction of being the first State in India to deploy a commando unit–Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)–to protect its big cat population from poachers; (b) if so, the details thereof and the funds allocated and spent so far; and (c) the steps being taken to adopt such measures in other States also to protect the tigers including in Andhra Pradesh?

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

(a) & (b) Karnataka is the first State to create the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) in the Bandipur Tiger Reserve. Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, 100% central assistance is provided to tiger States for raising, arming and deploying the STPF in sensitive tiger reserves. The details of central assistance provided to States and spent in this regard are at Annexure-I.

(c) Based on tiger abundance and vulnerability, 13 Tiger Reserves in the country have been identified for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF). The details are at Annexure-II. However, under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored scheme of Project Tiger, central assistance is provided to all the tiger reserves, including those in Andhra Pradesh, for antipoaching measures. This, interalia, includes deployment of local people as well in protection to complement the field staff.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 976 ON SPECIAL TIGER PROTECTION FORCE IN KARNATAKA DUE FOR REPLY ON 21.8.2012.

Details of central assistance provided to States under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF)

S. No. Name of the Tiger State Year Central assistance provided Amount spent by Reserve (Rs. in lakhs) States (Rs. in lakhs) 1 Corbett Uttarakhand 2008-09 93.00 -- 2 Dudhwa Uttar Pradesh 2008-09 93.00 -- 3 Ranthambhore Rajasthan 2008-09 93.00 -- 4 Similipal Odisha 2010-11 30.00 30.00 2011-12 240.00 --

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 976 ON SPECIAL TIGER PROTECTION FORCE IN KARNATAKA DUE FOR REPLY ON 21.8.2012.

List of Tiger Reserves identified for raising, arming and deploying the Special Tiger Protection Force

S. No. Name of Tiger Reserve State 1. Dudhwa Uttar Pradesh 2. Corbett Uttarakhand 3. Ranthambhore Rajasthan 4. Pench Madhya Pradesh 5. Kanha Madhya Pradesh 6. Bandhavgarh Madhya Pradesh 7. Pakke Arunachal Pradesh 8. Bandipur Karnataka 9. Pench Maharashtra 10. Tadoba-Andhari Maharashtra 11. Mudumalai Tamil Nadu 12. Kaziranga Assam 13. Similipal Odisha

INTERNATIONAL ASSISTANCE FOR DISPOSAL OF E-WASTE 21st August, 2012

RSQ 977

SHRI AAYANUR MANJUNATHA

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

(a) the quantum of e-waste generated annually in each State and Union Territory; (b) the quantum of such waste recycled in the country, annually; (c) whether any study was conducted in the context of generation and recycling of e-waste within the country and also in some Western and Asian countries; (d) if so, the details thereof including Government's reaction thereto; (e) whether Government proposes to seek international assistance for disposal of e-waste; and

(f) if so, the details thereof and other measures taken by Government for disposal of e-waste?

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

(a) to (f) Based on a survey carried out by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), it is estimated that 1.47 lakh MT of e-waste was generated in the country in the year 2005. This is expected to increase to about 8.0 lakh MT by 2012. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi, Karnataka, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab are among top ten states generating about 70% of total e-waste. There are about 75 authorized and registered e-waste recyclers with recycling capacity of about 2.46 lakh MTA of e-waste.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests has notified the E-Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011, for proper management and handling of e-waste. The concept of Extended Producer 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 Committees. Waste generated is required to be sent or sold to a registered or authorized recycler or re-processor having environmentally sound facilities.

The Guidelines for Environmentally Sound Management of e-waste published by CPCB provide the approach and methodology for environmentally sound management of e-waste.

The Ministry is implementing a Scheme to provide financial assistance for setting up of treatment, disposal and storage facility for hazardous and integrated recycling facilities for E-waste on public private partnership mode.

There is no proposal to seek international assistance for disposal of e-waste.

DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR DEVELOPMENTAL ACTIVITIES 21st August, 2012

RSQ 978

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 require 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; (c) the number of proposals approved, rejected or kept pending along with the reasons for the same; and (d) 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) The diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes including developmental activities require 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 and 2012 along with details of projects approved/ rejected by and under consideration of the Central Government is given in Annexure. 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 respect 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.

(d) 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. Proposals involving 100 ha or more forest land are also inspected in detail by the officers of the concerned Regional Office of the

Ministry. The Ministry takes prompt action to consider the projects for forest clearance when projects complete in all respect are received.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 978 BY SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR REGARDING ‘DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR DEVELOPMENTAL ACTIVITIES’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 21.08.2012.

Sl. States/Union No. of Under Pending due to Closed/ Total No. Territories proposals consideration of non-receipt of Rejected/ Number of approved Government of information sought Returned/ Proposals India from the State/ UT Withdrawn Govt. Year 2010 Andaman & Nicobar 1 Island 1 2 1 4 2 Andhra Pradesh 25 2 6 1 34 3 Arunachal Pradesh 14 2 3 19 4 Bihar 12 1 1 14 5 Chandigarh 1 2 3 6 Chhattisgarh 17 2 1 20 7 Dadar & Nagar Haveli 1 2 3 8 Delhi 2 1 3 9 Goa 3 2 5 10 Gujarat 75 1 12 88 11 Haryana 236 10 45 291 12 Himachal Pradesh 144 4 44 4 196 13 Jharkhand 38 3 15 56 14 Karnataka 22 2 4 9 37 15 Kerala 2 1 1 4 16 Madhya Pradesh 28 1 14 3 46 17 Maharashtra 37 2 9 2 50 18 Manipur 4 4 8 19 Meghalaya 2 2 20 Mizoram 1 1 2 21 Orissa 19 1 2 2 24 22 Punjab 254 9 67 5 335 23 Rajasthan 22 5 4 31 24 Sikkim 21 21 25 Tamil Nadu 10 1 2 13 26 Tripura 6 5 11 27 Uttar Pradesh 143 5 6 7 161 28 Uttarakhand 242 3 4 84 333 29 West Bengal 9 2 11 Total 1390 48 258 129 1825

Sl. No. States/Union No. of Under Pending due to Closed/ Total Territories proposals consideration of non-receipt of Rejected/ Number of approved Government of information sought Returned/ Proposals India from the State/ UT Withdrawn Govt. Year 2011 Andaman & Nicobar 1 Island 3 3 2 Andhra Pradesh 24 6 10 5 45 3 Arunachal Pradesh 13 2 5 20 4 Assam 2 2 4 5 Bihar 26 7 8 1 42 6 Chandigarh 4 1 5 7 Chhattisgarh 7 7 9 2 25 8 Dadar & Nagar Haveli 7 3 1 11 9 Delhi 1 1 10 Goa 1 1 11 Gujarat 83 20 31 134 12 Haryana 295 17 97 1 410 13 Himachal Pradesh 84 7 64 3 158 14 Jharkhand 8 3 4 2 17 15 Karnataka 14 11 4 6 35 16 Kerala 4 1 3 8 17 Madhya Pradesh 32 9 26 3 70 18 Maharashtra 57 4 14 2 77 19 Manipur 2 2 20 Mizoram 1 1 2 21 Orissa 16 4 3 23

22 Punjab 253 10 119 382 23 Rajasthan 14 2 5 3 24 24 Sikkim 9 1 10 25 Tamil Nadu 7 1 1 9 26 Tripura 1 1 27 Uttar Pradesh 114 6 11 6 137 28 Uttarakhand 94 5 8 101 208 29 West Bengal 4 4 Total 1177 129 426 136 1868

Sl. States/Union No. of Under Pending due to Closed/ Total Number No. Territories proposals consideration of non-receipt of Rejected/ of Proposals approved Government of information sought Returned/ India from the State/ UT Withdrawn Govt. Year 2012 Andaman & Nicobar 1 Island 1 2 3 2 Andhra Pradesh 5 9 2 1 17 3 Arunachal Pradesh 5 2 7 4 Assam 1 1 5 Bihar 6 4 6 16 6 Chhattisgarh 1 9 3 13 7 Dadar & Nagar Haveli 2 2 8 Gujarat 13 12 4 29 9 Haryana 64 21 15 100 10 Himachal Pradesh 19 25 30 74 11 Jharkhand 3 12 7 22 12 Karnataka 5 13 1 19 13 Kerala 1 1 14 Madhya Pradesh 2 21 4 27 15 Maharashtra 10 10 2 22 16 Manipur 1 1 17 Meghalaya 1 1 18 Mizoram 3 3 19 Orissa 3 4 1 8 20 Punjab 15 23 13 51 21 Rajasthan 3 3 6 22 Tamil Nadu 1 5 6 23 Uttar Pradesh 7 13 8 28 24 Uttarakhand 2 3 6 6 17 25 West Bengal 1 1 Total 161 197 110 7 475

APPROVAL OF SCHEMES UNDER FOREST ACT, 1980 FOR UTTARAKHAND 21st August, 2012

RSQ 979

SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA

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

(a) the details of various proposals received by the Ministry for approval under Forest Act, 1980 from Uttarakhand during 2011 and 2012; and (b) the names of the various schemes approved under the Forest Act, 1980; and (c) the details of the schemes not being approved along with this reasons therefor?

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

(a) to (c) During the year 2011 and 2012, Ministry of Environment and Forests received 302 proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes in Uttarakhand. Current status of grant of approval to these proposals is annexed.

Annexure referred to in answer to parts (a) to (c) of the Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 979 on ‘Approval of schemes under Forest Act, 1980 for Uttarakhand’ asked by Shri Mahendra Singh Mahra due for reply on 21.08.2012

Current status of the proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes in Uttarakhand received by the Ministry of Environment and Forests during the year 2011 and 2012 (No. of proposals) Category of projects S D H D I R S Tr O t r y e r o c an t a i d f r a h s h t n e e i d o mi e u k n g o ssi r s i P c a P l on s o n r e t r s lin f g o i o e P j o j pr r w e n e oj o a c c ec p t t P t ts o e s r s s r o a j l S e s u c p t p s l y

S c h e m e Final - 1 - - 1 2 2 1 approval 8 3 accorded In principle 5 2 1 - 6 5 3 2 approval 5 2 accorded Presently - 1 - - 9 - 1 3 under examinatio n for grant of in- principle approval Pending - - - - 2 -- 7 with the 7 Governmen t of India due to non- receipt of requisite information /document from the State Governmen t of Uttarakhan d Closed due - 1 - 1 7 1- 6 to non- 4 receipt of requisite information / documents from the State Governmen t R - - - - 2 - - 4

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POLICY FOR CONSERVATION OF FORESTS 21st August, 2012

RSQ 1033

SHRI RAM JETHMALANI

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government is giving more priority to construction projects related to development rather than conservation of forests in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether any clear-cut policy has been framed by Government to accord priority for conservation of forests or for construction of modern development projects?

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

(a) No, sir.

(b) Does not arise.

(c) Use of forest land for non-forest purpose, including for execution of development projects, require prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. Proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 are examined in accordance with the provisions of this Act and the Rules and Guidelines framed there-under. Approval under this Act for diversion of forest land is accorded only after ascertaining that the requirement of forest land for non-forest purposes is bare minimum and unavoidable.

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 conditions are transfer and mutation of equivalent non-forest land in favour of State Forest Department (SFD) for creation of compensatory afforestation from the funds to be provided by the user agency; notification of such non-forest land transferred in favour of the SFD as Reserved Forest/ Protected Forest; realization of Net Present Value (NPV) of the diverted forest land 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 diverted for non-forest purposes. Apart from the above, Ministry of Environment and Forests also provides financial assistance to State/ Union Territory Governments for conservation and development of forests.

WILDLIFE RESERVES AFFECTED BY FLOODS 28th August, 2012

RSQ *222

SHRIMATI KANIMOZHI

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

(a) the damage caused to animals, especially rhinos, due to the flooding of river Brahmaputra in July, 2012; (b) whether Government has been able to provide adequate relief measures to the surviving animals and, if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether Government would provide additional funds to wildlife reserves which are affected by natural disasters in the coming years?

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. *222 ON WILDLIFE RESERVES AFFECTED BY FLOODS DUE FOR REPLY ON 28.08.2012.

(a) Mortality of wild animals due to flood has been reported during the year only in the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (Assam). As reported by the State, a total of 631 animal deaths including 19 rhinos have occurred in Kaziranga due to the excess water brought by the flood during June-July, 2012, which was more than the ecological requirement of the flood plains of the Kaziranga. The details of mortality are at Annexure-I.

(b) Flood is a recurring natural phenomenon in Kaziranga which creates a variety of habitats suitable for different species. However, the current flood brought excess water than the ecological requirement of the floodplains of Kaziranga National Park, resulting into mortality of wild animals as well as damage to infrastructure like, roads, anti-poaching camps, artificial high ground etc. Similar high floods of 1988 and 1998 recorded animal mortality of

1203 and 652 respectively. Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, funding support is provided to the reserve, which, interalia, includes flood mitigation measures.

(c) Funding assistance is provided to States under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of “Project Tiger”, “Project Elephant” and “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats” to protect and foster wildlife conservation.

Annexure-I

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *222 ON WILDLIFE RESERVES AFFECTED BY FLOODS DUE FOR REPLY ON 28.08.2012.

Details of animal death recorded during high flood in Kaziranga Tiger Reserve during June-July, 2012 (as reported by State)

Sl. No. Species Total 1. Rhino 19 2. Elephant 1 3. Swamp deer 11 4. Buffallo 4 5. Hog deer 529 6. Sambar 22 7. Wild boar 34 8. Porcupine 5 9. Hog badger 3 10. Python 2 11. Fox 1 TOTAL 631

RELEASE OF FUNDS TO STATE CAMPAS 28th August, 2012

RSQ *223

SHRI NAND KUMAR SAI

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

(a) whether Government has established the National Green Tribunal in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the objectives of setting up of said Tribunal; (d) whether Government has released funds to State-level Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authorities (CAMPA) to carry out protection, conservation and regeneration of natural forests; (e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) the extent to which the objectives of such funds have been achieved so far in various States?

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), (b), (c), (d), (e) and (f) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.223 for reply on 28.8.2012 raised by Shri Nand Kumar Sai regarding Release of funds of State CAMPAs.

(a) to (c) The National Green Tribunal has been established under National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 on 18.10.2010 for effective and expeditious disposal of 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.

(d) No, Sir.

(e) to (f) Does not arise.

UTILIZATION OF FUNDS ALLOCATED TO MIZORAM 28th August, 2012

RSQ *227

SHRI LALHMING LIANA:

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

(a) the details of funds allocated and spent in the State of Mizoram by the Ministry and its various organizations since 2008-09 till date; and (b) the details of reasons for which these funds were allocated and the status of utilization along with the achievements of physical and financial targets?

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

(a) & (b): A Statement giving scheme-wise details of funds allocated and utilized, along with reasons for which these funds were allocated, in the State of Mizoram by the Ministry of Environment and Forests and its organizations since 2008-09 to till date, is laid on the Table of the House

STATEMENT REFFERED TO IN THE REPLY TO PARTS (a) and (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 227 REGARDING “UTILIZATION OF FUNDS ALLOCATED TO MIZORAM” BY SHRI LALHMING LIANA FOR ANSWER ON 28.8.2012 (Rs. crore) S. Name of 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 Tota Total Reasons/Targets No. Scheme/Proje Allocation Utilisation Allocati Utilis Alloc Utilisa Allo Utili Allo Utili l Utilisa ct on ation ation tion cati sati cati sati Allo tion on on on on cati on 1 Assistance for 0.16 0.16 0.15 0.15 0.22 0.22 0.99 0.24 0.06 0.06 1.58 0.83  Supporting State Abatement of * Pollution Control Pollution Board and State Environmental. Department for infrastructure development and salary support for technical staff. 2 Conservation 0.72 0.72 0.95 0.95 0.78 0.78 0.68 0.68 0.77 0.77 3.90 3.90  Sanctioning and * Management Management Action Plans of of Wetland wetlands identified in the State - Palak and Tamdil  Undertaking various conservation activities like catchment area treatment, weed removal, education awareness etc 3 Climate 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.03 0.06 0.06 0.00 0.00 0.09 0.09  Undertaking Change * climate change Action Plan capacity building in the State.  Preparation of State Action Plan on Climate Change

4 Environment 0.08 0.08 0.74 0.74 0.56 0.56 0.58 0.58 0.00 0.00 1.96 1.96  Provide funding Education and * to Mizoram Awareness SPCB under NGC for creation of environmental awareness among children  To assist Centre for Environment Protection, Aizwal for

awareness generation 5 Assistance for 0.12 0.12 0.11 0.05 0.00 0.05 0.00 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.23 0.37 Assistance Botanical provided to Garden Mizoram University for strengthening Botanical Garden 6 Environment 0.07 0.07 0.07 0.07 0.07 0.07 0.08 0.08 0.00 0.00 0.29 0.29 Assistance Information * provided to State System ENVIS Centre for (ENVIS) collection, compilation, storage, dissemination of information to various stakeholders. 7 Project Tiger 2.41 2.41 21.71 22.68 1.88 1.50 2.25 2.04 0.00 0.00 28.2 28.63  Ensuring 5 maintenance of a viable population of tigers in the state for scientific, economic, aesthetic, cultural and ecological values and to preserve for all times, areas of biological importance as a national heritage.  Assisting Dampa Tiger Reserves 8 Integrated 2.89 2.31 2.45 2.45 7.07 7.06 1.53 1.53 0.00 0.00 13.9 13.35  Assisting State in Development 4 development of of Wildlife national parks & Habitats sanctuaries;  Facilitating and encouraging expansion of Protected Areas (PAs) network;  Creating infrastructural protection and management of PAs;  Settlement of rights for better enforcement of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.  In Mizoram financial assistance is provided to two national parks and seven notified WL sanctuaries 9 Intensification 4.10 4.10 3.01 2.40 3.50 2.98 2.53 2.03 0.00 0.00 13.1 11.51 1. Forest Fire of Forest 4 Control Management Management Scheme 2. Strengthening (IFMS) forest infrastructure: (a) Survey & Demarcatio n (b) Preparation of working Plans (c) Protection and conservatio n of sacred Groves (d) Conservation and Restoration of Unique Vegetation &Ecosyste ms (e) Control and Eradication of Forest

Invasive Species 10 Gregarious 5.00 5.00 Scheme successfully completed in year 2008-09 5.00 5.00 Tackling problems Flowering of gregarious Muli flowering of Muli Bamboos in Bamboo. Scheme North Eastern completed in 2008- Region States 09. From 2009-10, component on flowering of Bamboo incorporated in IFMS. 11 National 13.61 14.20 17.27 17.11 12.21 12.14 13.4 0.00 3.22 0.00 59.7 43.45  Assisting State Afforestation 4 5 Forest Programme Development Agency, Mizoram  12170 Ha. approved for treatment 12 Central Zoo 0.10 0.10 1.59 1.59 0.23 0.23 0.81 0.81 0.00 0.00 2.73 2.73  Improving Authority * quality of zoo (CZA) animals;  Assisting development of Aizwal zoological park and Thenzwal Deer Park. 13 Capacity 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 3.99 3.99 4.99 4.99 8.98 8.98  Assisting Building for * * rehabilitation of Forest State Forests Management Training & Training of Institute, Aizwal Personnel  Capacity building capabilities. 14 Indian 1.91 1.91 3.60 3.60 3.98 3.98 3.38 3.38 0.61 0.61 13.4 13.48  Assistance to Council of * 8 Advanced Forestry Research Research Centre for Education Bamboos & Rattans (ARCBR), Aizwal  Establishment of Geenpool, Genebank appraising tree crops association under shifting cultivation 15 Research and 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.09 0.09 0.06 0.06 0.04 0.04 0.29 0.29  To fund and Development support University of Mizoram for undertaking research studies on ecosystem, various aspects of NTFP and effect of stone mining on river Tlawng 16 Biodiversity 0.05 0.05 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 4.20 4.20 0.01 0.01 4.26 4.26  Assistance to Conservation * Mizoram Biodiversity Board  Formulating and operationalizing Biodiversity Management Committees Total (1 to 31.27 31.28 51.70 51.84 30.62 29.69 34.5 19.8 9.70 6.48 157. 139.1 16) 8 3 87 2 *Likely expenditure, since utilization from the State government is still awaited. @ As on 30.06.2012.

REHABILITATION OF VILLAGES FROM BUFFER AREA OF FORESTS 28th August, 2012

RSQ *231

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) whether Government is seriously considering declaring all areas of Project Tiger as Buffer Forest Zone and removal of all habitat villages from these areas after providing them adequate rehabilitation package; (b) whether the Hon’ble Supreme Court has given any direction in this regard; and (c) 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), (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. *231 ON REHABILITATION OF VILLAGES FROM BUFFER AREA OF FORESTS DUE FOR REPLY ON 28.08.2012.

(a) No, Sir. The buffer area consisting of the area peripheral to critical tiger habitat or core area aim at promoting co-existence between wildlife and human activity with due recognition of the livelihood, developmental, social and cultural rights of the local people.

(b) No, Sir.

(c) Question does not arise.

DEPLETION OF NATURAL RESOURCES IN WESTERN GHATS 28th August, 2012

RSQ *232

SHRI RAMCHANDRA PRASAD SINGH

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has received any information regarding depletion of natural resources of forests of western Ghats region; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has taken any action to obtain factual information in this regard;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. 232 by Shri Ramchandra Prasad Singh due for reply on 28.08.2012

(a) & (b) The Ministry of Environment & Forests has not received any information regarding depletion of natural resources of forests of Western Ghats region. As per India State of Forest Report, 2011 published by Forest Survey of India, Dehradun, the forest cover of states lying in the Western Ghats region has increasedby 56km2as compared to India State of Forest Report, 2009. The details of the status of forest cover in States constituting Western Ghats as per India State of Forest Report 2009 and 2011 are given in Annexure-1.

(c) & (d) The Forest Survey of India has been mapping and assessing the country’s forest cover biennially which includes the Western Ghats region also.

Annexure - I referred to in reply to part(a) & (b) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 232 due for answer on 28-08-2012 regarding ‘Depletion of Natural Resources in Western Ghats’

Status of Forest Cover in States constituting Western Ghats as per India State of Forest Report 2009 &2011.

State Forest Cover Reasons for Change (in sq. km) 2009 Assessment 2011 Assessment Change Maharashtra 50650 50646 -4 There is a decrease of 3 sq. km in very dense forest, 19 sq.km in moderately dense forest and an increase of 18 sq.km in open forest. Goa 2212 2219 7 Increase in forest cover in the state is due to increase of mangrove forest and TOF. Karnataka 36190 36194 4 There has been an increase of six sq. km in open forest and a decrease of 2 sq.km in moderately dense forest Tamil Nadu 23551 23625 74 Regeneration in forest areas and extensive plantation activities in and outside forests. Kerala 17324 17300 -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. Gujarat 14620 14619 -1 Decrease is due to private felling in the TOF areas. Dadra & 211 211 0 There is zero change. Nagar Haveli

REPORT OF FOREST SURVEY OF INDIA IN FOREST COVER 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1739

DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA

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

(a) the details of the 2011 Report of the Dehradun-based Forest Survey of India; (b) whether India’s forest cover has declined by 367 sq km between 2007 and 2009 and the largest dip in forest cover was in the northeast which lost 550 sq.km; (c) whether with insurgency-hit Manipur, totaling 190 sq km at top, Nagaland comes next with at least 146 sq km forest being lost between 2006 and 2008, the trend is equally worrying in Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya; and (d) whether above scenario runs counter to the impression that afforestation and conservation programmes are yielding results?

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

(a) The details of the India State of Forest Report, 2011 (ISFR) published by Dehradun –based Forest Survey of India is as follows:-  India State of Forest Report 2011 is the twelfth such report. The first report was published in 1987.  Forest and tree cover of the country is 78.29 million hectare, which is 23.81% of the geographical area. This includes 2.76% of tree cover.  The forest and tree cover would work out to 25.22% after exclusion of 183135 square kilometre above the altitude 4000 m from the total geographical area of the country as these areas do not support tree growth.  In the hill and tribal districts of the country, a decrease in forest cover of 548 square kilometre and 679 square kilometre respectively has been reported as compared to the previous assessment.  The north eastern States of the India account for one-forth of the country’s forest cover. There is a net decline of 549 square kilometre in forest cover as compared to the previous assessment.  Mangrove cover has increased by 23.34 square kilometre during the same period.

 The total growing stock of India’s forest and tree outside forests is estimated as 6047.15 million cum which comprises 4498.73 million cum inside the forests and 1548.42 million cum outside the forests.  The total bamboo bearing area in the country is estimated to be 13.96 million hectare.  The total carbon stock in the country’s forests is estimated to the 6663 million tones.

(b) Yes, Sir. As per the assessments of 2011 (data period 2008-09) as published in ISFR-2011and the assessment of ISFR-2009 (data period 2006-07) there has been a marginal decrease of 367 sq. km in the forest cover of the country. The forest cover in the northeast between these two assessments has declined by 549 sq. km.

(c) The details of the forest cover change with regard to the states of Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya as per these two assessments is as follows:

States/UTs Forest Cover as per ISFR-2009 Forest Cover as per ISFR-2011 Forest Cover Change Manipur 17280 17090 -190 Nagaland 13464 13318 -146 Mizoram 19183 19117 -66 Arunachal Pradesh 67484 67410 -74 Meghalaya 17321 17275 -46 Figures in sq. km

(d) No, Sir. The loss of forest cover to the extent of 549 sq km in the seven northeastern States has been primarily due to prevailing socio-cultural practice of shifting cultivation in these states. Loss in other states like Andhra Pradesh (281 sq. km) and Kerala (24 sq. km) is reported due to harvesting of short rotation plantations like Eucalyptus, Acacia mangium, rubber etc. 15 States have reported cumulative gain of 500 sq. km which is mainly due to afforestation and conservation activities undertaken in these States.

TIGER PROJECT 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1740

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that in spite of crores of rupees spent in Tiger Project, many reserve forests like Sundarbans, Simlipal Odisha, Dudhua Project, Uttar Pradesh Sariska, Rajasthan has no tiger at all; and (b) what are the systems for counting the tiger population?

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

(a) No Sir. The country level tiger population, estimated once in every four years using the refined methodology is 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively in the recent all India estimation (2010). The landscape-wise details of tiger estimation (2010) in the country are at Annexure-I.

(b) The tiger population is estimated with a refined methodology of double sampling using camera traps in mark- recapture statistical framework at landscape level. In low tiger density reserves the minimum number of tigers is obtained through DNA analysis of scats

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1740 ON TIGER PROJECT DUE FOR REPLY ON 28.08.2012.

Details of tiger population (2010)

State Tiger Population 2010 Estimate Statistical Lower Limit Statistical Upper Limit (Number)

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.

CONTAMINATION OF GROUND WATER BY INDUSTRIAL POLLUTANTS 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1742

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) (a) the details of the ill effects on people because of groundwater pollution by various industrial units in the country, State-wise; (b) the details of the penal actions taken against the industrial units polluting the ground water in the last three years; and (c) the details of arrangements the Ministry ensures to counter the impact of polluted water on local people?

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

(a) As reported by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), it has not carried out any epidemiological study due to contamination of ground water caused by various industrial units.

(b) During the last three years i.e. from 2009-10 to 2011-12, CPCB inspected 771 units under its Environment Surveillance Squad (ESS) programme. Directions under Section 5 of Environment (Protection), 1986 were issued to 195 defaulting industries for non-compliance. Also, directions were issued to the concerned State Pollution Control Boards / Pollution Control Committees under Section 18 (1) (b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution), Act, 1974 for directing 118 defaulting industries to take corrective action to comply with the stipulated standards. However, CPCB has not located any industry directly contaminating the ground water under the ESS programme.

(c) The steps taken to check water pollution include the following:

 State Boards are granting consent to various industrial units under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution), Act, 1974 to comply with the stipulated effluent standards;

 Random inspections are carried in 17 categories of highly polluted industries to verify the status of compliance of prescribed standards;  Action plans as per Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) are being implemented in 39 critically polluted areas;  Setting-up of common effluent treatment plants for cluster of Small Scale Industrial units;  Urban centres discharging sewage in aquatic resources have been identified and recommended for appropriate action by the concerned authorities;  Storage of treated/untreated effluent is not permitted in unlined lagoons to prevent ground water contamination.

SACRIFICE OF ANIMALS 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1743

SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT & FORESTS be pleased to state;

(a) the names of the States in the country which have not yet enacted the laws regarding sacrifice of animals so far; (b) the details of advisory sent to the respective States by Government; and (c) the details of actions taken by Government under the provision of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960?

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

(a) States other than Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry, Karnataka, Kerala, Rajasthan and Gujarat have not enacted the laws regarding sacrifice of animals so far.

(b) & (c) The mandate of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 administered by Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) is to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals and for that purpose to amend the law relating to the prevention of cruelty to animals. Section 28 of the Act provides as following:

“Nothing contained in this Act shall render it an offence to kill any animal in a manner required by the religion of any community”.

UTILIZATION OF FUNDS ALLOCATED FOR AFFORESTATION 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1744

SHRIMATI KANIMOZHI

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

(a) the quantum of funds allocated for afforestation and the interest accrued on it; (b) whether this amount has been used for any other purposes; and (c) if so, the amount utilized so far, along with details of regular monitoring of the scheme, State-wise?

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

(a) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is providing funds to the States under Centrally Sponsored scheme of National Afforestation Programme (NAP) for regeneration of degraded forest and adjoining areas through people 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. As on 31.03.2012, an amount of Rs.2850.36 crore have been released to the States under NAP Scheme since inception of the scheme in 2002. The interest accrued on the amount released, if any, is taken into consideration and adjusted, at the time of subsequent releases.

(b) & (c) No, Sir. The operational guidelines of NAP provides for a multi-level monitoring and evaluation mechanism through State Forest Development Agency (SFDA) & Forest Development Agency (FDA) at state & district level respectively. Apart from the monitoring and evaluation by the States, the Ministry commissions independent evaluation of the projects through reputed experts and organizations. Monitoring of project sites by Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System is also provided. The State wise details of funds released under NAP Scheme are given in the Annexure.

Annexure referred to in reply to part (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No.1744 by Shrimati Kanimozhi regarding Utilization of funds allocated for Afforestation due for reply on 28/08/2012

State-wise details of funds released under NAP scheme since inception of the scheme in 2002

S.No. State Amount Released (Rs. in Crore) 1 Andhra Pradesh 110.30 2 Bihar 46.53 3 Chhattisgarh 216.52 4 Goa 0.64 5 Gujarat 183.82 6 Haryana 138.70 7 Himachal Pradesh 65.68 8 Jammu & Kashmir 66.16 9 Jharkhand 137.25 10 Karnataka 178.88 11 Kerala 55.15 12 Madhya Pradesh 194.80 13 Maharashtra 179.37 14 Orissa 124.48 15 Punjab 22.37 16 Rajasthan 60.63 17 Tamil Nadu 112.02 18 Uttar Pradesh 240.79 19 Uttarakhand 83.43 20 West Bengal 56.57 Total (Other States) 2274.08 21 Arunachal Pradesh 31.21 22 Assam 79.53 23 Manipur 77.91 24 Meghalaya 39.01 25 Mizoram 132.35 26 Nagaland 84.58 27 Sikkim 77.77 28 Tripura 53.91 Total (NE States) 576.28 G. Total 2850.36

REVIEW OF AFFORESTATION SCHEME 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1745

SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI

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

(a) whether Government has reviewed its afforestation scheme recently; (b) if so, the details thereof during the last three years, State-wise including Andhra Pradesh; and (c) how it would be beneficial to be tribals?

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

(a) & (b) Yes, Sir. The Ministry of Environment and Forests undertook a performance evaluation of the National Afforestation Programme (NAP) Scheme in the year 2009 and also a comprehensive review of NAP guidelines based on the feedback from the implementing States/ stakeholders. Accordingly, the guidelines were revised and operationalised from the year 2010-11 in the States including Andhra Pradesh. The revised guidelines have revamped the decentralized institutional structure and streamlined the fund flow mechanism. In addition, new components namely training, capacity building, value addition and marketing of forest produce have also been focused under NAP to provide the livelihood opportunity to the local community.

(c) The National Afforestation Programme (NAP) Scheme is implemented through the Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) with the active participation of local people including the tribal community in planning, decision making, monitoring etc. The village communities including tribals draw benefits in terms of forest produce, employment and sharing of income accrued out of the joint forest management activities.

INCINERATION OF TOXIC WASTE 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1746

Shri D.Raja

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has planned to transport around 350 tonnes of toxic waste from Bhopal to Germany for incineration; (b) if so, the details thereof and total expense expected to be incurred for this; (c) whether this plan has been delayed due to resistance from activists in Germany; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b): The Government of Madhya Pradesh have recommended a proposal received from German Agency GIZ IS for the disposal of 350 MT of toxic waste lying at erstwhile Union Carbide (India) Limited (UCIL), Bhopal by transporting it to Germany for incineration. The Union Cabinet has accorded approval to the proposal. The Cabinet has also approved the cost estimate of about Rs.24.56 crore plus taxes subject to minor variations depending on result of the chemical analysis of the waste, its exact final weight and other relevant factors.

(c) & (d): No, Sir.

STATE FOREST DEVELOPMENT AGENCY 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1747

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR

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

(a) whether it is a fact while sanctioning the project relating to State Forest Development Agency from Gujarat Government has not sanctioned any amount towards the advance action work for taking up afforestation during 2010-2011, monsoon; (b) the number of proposals related to State Forest Development Agency pending with the Central Government and the reasons therefor; and (c) by when the proposals are likely to be sanctioned?

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

(d) A consolidated proposal under the National Afforestation Programme Scheme was submitted by the State Forest Development Agency (SFDA), Gujarat to the Central 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.

(e) No proposal related to Gujarat State Forest Development Agency is pending with the Central Government at present.

(f) Does not arise.

STATUS REPORT ON POLLUTION OF RIVERS 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1748

DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA

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

(a) the status report on pollution in various rivers; and (b) the details of action taken by the Ministry to protect the rivers from pollution, river-wise?

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

(a) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is monitoring water quality at various locations along river stretches in the country. Based on the water quality data, CPCB has identified 150 polluted river stretches in 121 rivers, details of which are at Annexure-I.

(b) This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in pollution abatement in identified river stretches under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) which presently covers 40 rivers in 190 towns spread over 20 States. Pollution abatement activities taken up under the Plan include interception and diversion of sewage, setting up of sewage treatment plants, low cost sanitation works, crematoria works, etc. So far, pollution abatement schemes amounting to Rs. 8291.04 crore have been sanctioned under NRCP including schemes under National Ganga River Basin Authority, details of which are at Annexure-II. CPCB and the State Pollution Control Boards monitor industries for compliance with respect to effluents discharge standards and take action for non compliance under the Environment (Protection) Act 1986 and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.

Annexure-I referred in reply to part (a) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1748 to be answered on Tuesday, the 28th August, 2012 on ‘Status report on pollution of rivers’ State-wise details of polluted river stretches

Sl. No. Name of State Name of the River No. of polluted stretches 1 Andhra Pradesh Godavari, Krishna, Manjira, Musi, Maner, Nakkavagu, 9 Pennar and Tungabhadra 2 Assam Bharalu, Burhidihing, Deepar bill and Kalong 4 3 Chandigarh Attawa choe, Patiala ki Rao and Sukhna choe 3 4 Delhi Yamuna 1 5 Gujarat Ambika, Anas, Amlakhadi, Bhogavo, Baleshwar Khadi, 19 Dhadar, Daman Ganga, Khari, Kaveri, Kim, Kolak, Mindhola, Mahi, Panam, Shedi, Sabarmati, and Tapi 6 Haryana Ghaggar, Gurgaon canal, Markanda, Western Yamuna 5 canal, and Yamuna 7 Himachal Beas, Markanda and Sukhna, 3 Pradesh 8 Madhya Betwa, Chambal, Kshipra, Khan, Kalisot, Mandakini, 9 Pradesh Tons and Narmada 9 Maharashtra Bhima, Godavari, Mula & mutha, Pawana, Panchganga, 28 Patalganga, Indrayani, Koyna, Kundalika, Kalu, Kanhan, Kolar, Mithi, Tapi, Girna, Nira, Weinganga, Wardha, Krishna, Purna, Nira, Chandrabhaga, Venna river, Ulhas, Rangavali and Bhatsa 10 Punjab Satluj and Ghaggar 2

11 Tamil Nadu Adyar, Coovum, Cauvery, Noyyal, Vaigai, Tambiraparani, 9 Bhavani and Palar 12 Uttar Yamuna, Hindon, Western kali (Partly Covered), Kali nadi 12 Pradesh eastern, Bagad, Ganga, Gomti, Ramganga, Saryu and Rihand 13 Karnataka Bhadra, Tunga, Tungabhadra, Laxmantirtha, Kali, 11 Krishna, Hundri, Kundu, Arkavati and Malprabha 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 Orissa Kathjodi, Brahmani, Mahanadi and Kuakhai 4 24 Pondicherry 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 in reply to part (b) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 1748 to be answered on Tuesday, the 28th August, 2012 on ‘Status report on pollution of rivers’

Statewise and riverwise cost of schemes sanctioned under National River Conservation Plan including schemes under National Ganga River Basin Authority

(Rs. In crore) S. No. State River Sanctioned Cost 1 Andhra Pradesh Godavari 31.85 Musi 335.66 Sub Total 367.51 2 Bihar Ganga 499.82 Sub Total 499.82 3 Jharkhand Damodar 0.41 Ganga 0.21 Subarnarekha 3.76 Sub Total 4.38 4 Gujarat Sabarmati 101.96 Sub Total 101.96 5 Goa Mandovi 14.10 Sub Total 14.10 6 Karnataka Bhadra 3.77 Tunga-bhadra, 7.16 Cauvery 5.34 Tunga 3.70 Pennar 46.27 Sub Total 66.25 7 Maharastra Krishna, 28.74 Godavari, 87.13 Tapi 2.44 Panchganga 74.29 Sub Total 192.60 8 Madhya Pradesh Betwa 8.23 Tapti, 4.81 Wainganga, 1.01 Khan 40.19 Narmada 14.33 Kshipra 18.05 Beehar 19.44 Chambal 3.11 Mandakini. 6.20 Sub Total 115.38 9 Orissa Brahmini 4.25 Mahanadi 8.04 Coastal Area (Puri) 80.45 Sub Total 92.74 10 Punjab Satluj & Beas 730.90 Sub Total 730.90 11 Rajasthan Chambal 150.96 Sub Total 150.95 12 Tamilnadu Adyar, Cooum, 404.25 Cauvery, 263.76 Vennar, 62.75

Vaigai 130.24 Tambarani 54.93 Sub Total 915.93 13 Delhi Yamuna 656.69 Sub Total 656.69 14 Haryana Yamuna 305.63 Sub Total 305.63 15 Uttar Pradesh Ganga 1451.08 Yamuna, 409.95 Gomti, 318.79 Ramganga 279.91 Sub Total 2459.73 16 Uttrakhand Ganga 226.22 Sub Total 226.22 17 West Bengal Ganga, 1166.89 Damodar 3.98 Mahananda 54.88 Sub Total 1225.75 18 Kerala Pamba 18.45 Sub Total 18.45 19 Sikkim Rani Chu 114.31 Sub Total 114.31 20 Nagaland Diphu & Dhansiri 31.75 Sub Total 31.75 Grand Total 8291.04

KUDREMUKH NATIONAL PARK 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1749

SHRI RAJEEV CHANDRASEKHAR

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

(a) whether Government has received any proposal to announce Kudremukh National Park as tiger project; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has any rehabilitation plan for the tribals living in the area who will be forced to vacate their homes; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) Based on the proposal received from the State Government of Karnataka, ‘in-principle’ approval has been accorded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority for declaring the Kudremukh Tiger Reserve, under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

(c) & (d) Village relocation is done on voluntary basis and on mutually agreed terms and conditions under provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and the Scheduled Tribes and Other Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, with an enhanced package of Rs. 10 lakhs per family.

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF FORESTRY RESEARCH AND EDUCATION 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1750

DR. CHANDAN MITRA

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

(a) whether rules and regulations governing Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Dehradun have not been framed even after completion of 22 years of its existence; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; (c) the steps taken by the Government in this regard; and (d) the further steps taken by Government for bringing the scientific, technical and administrative services of ICFRE at par with the CSIR and ICAR?

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

(a), (b) & (c) The Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE), Dehradun is an autonomous body of Ministry of Environment & Forests registered under the societies registration act, 1860. The rule and regulation governing Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE), Dehradun are in existence since 1991.

(d) No decision has been taken by the Government so far.

AFFORESTATION PROJECTS IN THE COUNTRY 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1751

SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

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

(a) the status of afforestation in the country; (b) whether Government proposes to provide monetary incentives to certain agencies that take interest in such projects; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether some of such agencies that had been provided monetary incentives had disappeared without doing any work; (e) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken to penalize such agencies so as to serve as a deterrent for others; and (f) the action plan to control indiscriminate exploitation of natural resources in the country? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) 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 in the country through people’s participation. As on 31.03.2012, an amount of Rs.2850.36 crore has been released to the States for the treatment of 18.86 lakhs hectare of degraded forest land under NAP Scheme since its inception in 2002. Apart from NAP, afforestation work is also been carried out by other Ministries under schemes like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), National Bamboo Mission, 13th Finance Commission etc.

(b) No proposal to provide monetary incentives to any agency is under consideration of the Ministry.

(c) ,(d) & (e) Questions do not arise.

(d) To control in indiscriminate exploitation of forest resources in the country, 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 and ammunition to the frontline forestry force. The grant under the 13th Finance Commission does also have the component for forest protection.

TIGER DEATHS IN CORBETT NATIONAL PARK 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1752

SHRI V.P. SINGH BADNORE:

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

(a) the number of tigers have been reported dead in Corbett National Park in last one year and three years; (b) the details of causes of their deaths natural or any other; and (c) whether any action has been taken by Government to punish the culprits, if any, involved in any wrong doing including poaching or poisoning of the Big cats?

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

(a) & (b) As reported by State, details of tiger mortality in the Corbett Tiger Reserve during last one year and three years are at Annexure-I.

(c) Action against such offenders is taken within the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and other laws by the State authorities who are vested with the responsibility of day-to-day management of protected areas. Funding assistance is provided to tiger reserves under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, which, interalia, includes support for protection of tigers by deploying local people, as Tiger Protection Force, patrolling through antipoaching squads, electronic surveillance and creation of Special Tiger Protection Force to complement the efforts of field staff.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1752 ON TIGER DEATHS IN CORBETT NATIONAL PARK DUE FOR REPLY ON 28.08.2012.

Details of mortality of tigers in the Corbett Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand (as reported by State) Sl. No. Year No. of tiger deaths Poaching Including seizures Natural & Other Causes 1. 2008 1 1 2. 2009 0 6 3. 2010 0 2 4. 2011 1 7 5. 2012 0 3 TOTAL 2 19

COMPLAINT AGAINST POLLUTING INDUSTRIES 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1753

SHRI RASHEED MASOOD

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

(a) the details of complaints received in Saharanpur District against various industrial establishments during the last three years for polluting the Yamuna and Hindon rivers and the ground water along with the names of those industrial establishments; (b) the details of action taken on those complaints; (c) whether any action has been taken against those industrial establishments; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) As reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the details of complaints received during last three years regarding pollution caused by various industrial units in Sarahanpur district are given at Annexure-I. (b) to (d) The details of action taken against the polluting industries are given at Annexure- II.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 1753 DUE FOR REPLY ON 28.08.2012 REGARDING COMPLAINT AGAINST POLLUTING INDUSTRIES BY SHRI RASHEED MASOOD.

Public complaints received against various industrial establishments in Saharanpur District during last three years.

Received from Received Through Dated Subject

Sh. Yogesh Kumar & Others, Vill. Ministry of Environment and 03.06.2010 General complaint on water and air pollution. Balvantpur, Ambala Road, Sarsava, Forests Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh Sh. Ishwar Goyal, President, Samaj Yashvir Singh, MP, 20.04.2011 Complaint against M/s. Shakumbhari Sugar Kalyan Samiti, Saharanpur through his letter dated 12.05.2011 Mills, Saharanpur regarding Yamuna river pollution Sh. Ishwar Goyal, President, Samaj Sh. Ashok Argal, MP, Lok Sabha 20.04.2011 Complaint against M/s. Shakumbhari Sugar Kalyan Samiti, Saharanpur through his letter dated 20.05.2011 Mills, Saharanpur regarding Yamuna river pollution Sh. Ishwar Goyal, President, Samaj Yashvir Singh, MP, Lok Sabha 20.04.2011 Complaint against M/s. Star Paper Mills, Kalyan Samiti, Saharanpur through his letter dated 11.05.2011 Saharanpur regarding Hindon river pollution

Sh. Mithilesh Kumar, Member of Ministry of Environment and 09.09.2011 Representation regarding pollution of Hindon Parliament (Lok Sabha) Forests river by throwing of polluted water and waste by the management of M/s Star Paper Mills, Saharanpur, U.P. Sh. J.K. Sharma, A-42, & 43, Gali Ministry of Environment and 11.10.2011 Complaint forwarded by Sh. Ashok Argal, No. 4, Pandav Nagar Complex, Forests M.P. and Sh. Yashveer Singh, M.P. regarding Ganesh Nagar, New Delhi – 92 pollution by Saharanpur Dist. U.P. due to five . factories.

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (b) TO (d) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1753 TO BE ANSWERED ON 28-8-2012 ON COMPLAINT AGAINST POLLUTING INDUSTRIES BY SHRI RASHEED MASOOD.

Action Taken Report on the polluting industries of Saharanpur District

S. No Name of Industry Action Taken

1. M/s Star Paper Mills Ltd., (i) The unit was inspected by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in July, 2008 Paper Mill Road, Himmat and on the basis of inspection report, CPCB has issued direction under section (18) Nagar, Saharanpur (1) (b) of Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 to Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to direct the unit to take necessary pollution control measures in a time bound manner.

(ii) The unit was again inspected jointly by the officials of CPCB and UPPCB on July, 2011 and it was observed that the unit is not complying with the prescribed norms. Subsequently, CPCB issued direction on 07.09.2011 under section (18) (1) (b) of Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 to UPPCB to direct the Unit to stabilise Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) and maintain proper Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS) in aeration tank to treat the entire effluent to meet the prescribed effluent standards.

Accordingly, UPPCB issued direction to the above said unit under section 33 A of Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 to submit time bound action plan for recycling of treated effluent.

The unit has submitted action plan regarding recycling of treated effluent. The unit was again inspected by the officials of CPCB and was found not in operation. Accordingly, the unit was asked to take necessary pollution control measures for compliance.

(iii) The unit was also inspected by the officials of UPPCB in November, 2011 and it was found complying. However, UPPCB issued direction to the unit to submit Bank Guarantee for an amount of Rs. 2.00 lakhs for time bound compliance of directions regarding recycling of treated effluent. 2. M/s Shakumbhari Sugar and The unit was inspected by CPCB in July, 2011 and November, 2011. On the basis Allied industries Ltd (Sugar of inspection report, CPCB issued directions under section 5 of Environment and distillery), Todapur, (Protection) Act, 1986 to submit action plan for upgradation of ETP to comply with Saharanpur composting protocol and to stabilize the ETP of the Sugar unit at least one month before starting of cane crushing season.

3. M/s Uttam Sugar Mills Ltd, (i) The unit was inspected in July 2008 and issued direction under section 18 (1) (b) Shermau, Saharanpur of Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 to UPPCB to direct the unit to take necessary pollution control measures in a time bound manner.

(ii) The unit was again inspected in November, 2011 and the unit was found not in operation due to completion of crushing season. The unit was asked to take necessary pollution control measures for compliance of prescribed effluent standards.

4. M/s Wave Industries Pvt The unit was inspected in November, 2011 and the unit was found not in operation Ltd. Bandukedi, Saharanpur due to completion of crushing season. The unit was asked to take necessary pollution control measures for compliance of prescribed effluent standards. 5 M/s Sainov Spirits Private The unit was inspected in November, 2011 and the unit was found not in operation. Ltd., Pilkhani, Saharanpur Accordingly, Direction under section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 was issued to the unit in November, 2011 to submit action plan to achieve Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) and to comply with composting protocol, not to resume operation and to monitor ground water quality along with Bank Guarantee. The unit was asked to submit road map for installation of concentration-cum-incineration system to achieve ZLD.

POWER PROJECTS FOR ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1754

DR. T.N. SEEMA

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

(a) whether a large number of power projects are awaiting environment and forest clearances; (b) If so, the details thereof along with the details of the power projects cleared and those rejected during the last three years, State-wise and project-wise; (c) the reasons for the pendency along with the period since when they are pending, project-wise; and (d) the time by when the pending projects are likely to be cleared?

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

(a) & (b) There are 20 power projects awaiting environmental clearance and 28 power projects awaiting clearance for diversion of forest land. The details are given in Annexure-I. 166 power projects were granted environmental clearance and 143 power projects were granted forest clearance during the last three years. The details are given at Annexure-II. Two power projects for environmental clearances and three power projects for forest clearance were rejected during the last three years. The status is given at Annexure-III.

(c) & (d) The Ministry has taken a number of steps to ensure timely decisions on the applications for environmental clearances by: (i) constituting sector specific Expert Appraisal Committees (EACs) for appraisal of thermal, hydro and nuclear power projects, regular meeting of the EACs; (ii) preparation of sector specific technical guidance manuals which are posted on the Ministry’s website to prepare EIA reports addressing all the related issues. The EIA Notification, 2006 prescribes a time limit of 105 days from the day of receipt of complete information for according environmental clearance.

As and when complete information is submitted by the project proponent, the proposals are considered expeditiously for environmental clearance. The main reasons for pendency are delay in submission of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report and Environment Management Plan (EMP) including public hearing report, deficiency in the EIA/EMP reports inadequate data, non-submission of complete information by the project proponents.

ANNEXURE -I

PENDING THERMAL POWER PROJECTS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE AS ON DATE i.e 23.08.2012

S. No. Project Details Gujarat

1 No: J-13012/100/09-IA II (T) Name: 2X660 MW Coal based Thermal Power Plant at village kaj / Nanavada in KodinarTaluka District: Junagadh , Gujarat Company: M/s ShapoorjiPallonji Energy (Gujarat) Pvt. Ltd. 2 No: J-13012/28/10-IA II (T) Name: 6x660 MW (3960 MW) Super-Critical Technology Imported Coal Based TPP of at village Bhatvadia, in Kalyanpur Taluk, District: Jamnagar, Gujarat Company: M/s Universal Crescent Power Pvt. Ltd. 3 No: J-13012/45/11-IA II (T) Name: Proposed 15MW Coal based Co-generation Captive Power Plant at villages Sarigam&Angam, TalukaUmbergam District: Valsad, Gujarat Company: M/s NR Agarwal Industries Ltd. 4 No. J-13012/37/2011-IA.II(T) Name: Expansion by addition of 1.5 MW Captive Power Plant at Village: Morai District: Valsat, Gujarat Company: M/s Ruby Macons Limited. Madhya Pradesh 5 No. J-13012/30/10-IA II(T) Name: 2x660 MW Coal based Pench TPP at Village Dhanora, District Chhindwara (M.P.) Company: M/s Adani Pench Power Ltd. Maharashtra 6 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 Company: M/s Urban Energy Generation Pvt. Ltd. 7 No. J-13012/75/2010-IA.II(T) Name: Expansion by addition of 1x660mw Bhusawal Thermal Power Station expansion project of MAHAGENGO at Village: Pimpri-Sekam Taluk: Bhusawal Distt- Jalgaon Company: M/s Maharashtra State power Generation Co. Ltd. (MAHAGENCO) 8 No. J13012/80/2011-IA.II(T) Name: 21 MW Bagasse Based Co-Generation Project at village Pangari District- Beed State: Maharashtra Company: M/s Vaidyanath Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana Ltd. Orissa 9 No. J-13012/25/2007-IA.II(T) Name: 2X660MW/2X700MW Tentuli Thermal Power Plant in District Angul, State: Orissa Company: M/s Mahanadi Aban Power Ltd.(M/s NSL Nagapattinum Power & Infratech Pvt. Ltd.) Tamil Nadu 10 No: J-13012/107/11-IA II (T) Name: 150 MW Thermal Power Plant at village KilvelurTaluk District: Nagapattinam, Tamilnadu Company: M/s Nagapattinam Energy Pvt. Ltd. 11 No. J-13012/36/2010-IA.II(T) Name: 2x800 MW Ennore SEZ Supercritical Thermal Power Plant at Village Vayalur District: Thiruvallur State: Tamilnadu Company: M/s TANGEDCO Uttar Pradesh 12 No: J-13012/155/10-IA-II (T) Name: 2 x 660 MW Coal Based TPP Phase-II at Villages Bhartauli, Chaperghata, Rasulpur Bhuranda & Kripalpur, Tehsil Bhognipur, District: Ramabai Nagar, Uttar Pradesh Company: M/s Lanco Anpara Power Pvt. Ltd. 13 No: J-13012/148/08-IA-II (T) Name: Expansion of existing power plant from 741.7 MW to 999.7 MW at Renusagar, District: Sonebhadra, Uttar Pradesh Company: M/s Hindalco Industries Ltd. 14 No. J-13012/121/2009-IA.II(T) Name: 2x660 MW Jawaharpur Thermal Power Project at village Malawan District : Etah State: Uttar Pradesh Company: M/s Jawaharpur Vidyut Utpadam Nigam Ltd.

River Valley & Hydroelectric Projects Pending for EC clearance

S.No State Project Details 1 Uttarakhand J-12011/92/2007-IA.I Project Name: Devsari HEP (252 MW) District: Chamoli Company: M/s Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd. 2 Uttarakhand J-12011/16/2010-IA.I Project Name: Naitwari Mori HEP (60 MW) Project

District: Uttarkashi Company: M/s Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd. 3 Himachal Pradesh J-12011/6/2010-IA.I Project Name: Selii HEP Project (4000 MW) District: Kinnaur Company: M/s Moser Baer Projects Pvt. Ltd.

To be considered by the EAC

S.No State Project Details 4 Sikkim J-12011/67/2008-IA.I Project Name: Teesta-IV HEP Project (520 MW) District: North Sikkim Company: M/s NHPCLtd. 5 Arunachal Pradesh J-12011/71/2007-IA.I Project Name: Hirong HEP (500 MW) Project District: West Siang Company: M/s Jaiprakash Associates Ltd. 6 Jammu & Kashmir J-12011/39/2009-IA.I Project Name: Baglihar Stage-II HEP (450 MW) Projects District: Ramban Company: M/s J&K Power Development Corporation Ltd.

Details of Proposals seeking Prior Approval of Central Government Under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for Diversion of Forest Land For Hydel Projects Pending Before the Government of India.

S.No. Name of Proposal State 1 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Gramongh Hepin Favour Of M/S Shobla Hydro Power Pvt. Ltd., Kullu Himachal Pradesh Diversion Of 5056.50 Ha Of Forest Land In Favour Of M/S Nhpc For Construction Of Dibang 2 Multipurpose Project (3000 Mw) On Dibang River In Lower Dibang Valley Of Lower Dibang Arunachal Pradesh District Of Arunachal Pradesh. 3 Tipaimukh Hydro Electric (M) Project Manipur Diversion Of 313.88 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of Tato-Ii Hydro Electric Project (700 4 Arunachal Pradesh Mw) On Siyom River In West Siang District In F/O M/S Tato Hydro Power (P) Ltd. Diversion Of 217.522 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 261 Mw Rupsiabagar- 5 Uttaranchal Khasiyabara Hydro-Electric Project In Favour Of Ntpc Ltd. Diversion Of 20.3619 Ha Of Forest Land For Establishment Of An Hydro Power Project On 6 Orissa River Baitarani By M/S Baitarani Power Project Ltd. Diversion Of 0.1970 Ha Of Additional Forest Land In Favour Of M/S Shree Vekteswara Enterprises, 4-3-128/10, 1st Floor, Hill Street Securderabad For The Construction Of 2.00 Mw 7 Himachal Pradesh Khanyara Hep Within The Jurisdiction Of Rohroo Forest Division Distt. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Diversion Of 143.4928 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 520 Mw Hep Teesta Stege-Iv 8 Sikkim Under Mangan And Dzongu Range In North Distict Of Sikkim By Nhpc Limited, Sikkim. 9 Dhakwa Hydel Project By T.H.D.C. India Ltd. Uttar Pradesh Const. Of 24.00 Mw Paudital _Lassa Hep In Favour Of M/S Greenko Hatkoti Energy Private 10 Himachal Pradesh Ltd. Plot No. 1071, Road No 44 Jublee Hills Hyderabad Diversion Of 197.173 Ha. Of Forest Land For 252 Mw Devsari Hydro Electric Project On River 11 Uttaranchal Pinder In Tehsil Tharali, Distt. Chamoli In Favour Of M/S Sjvn Diversion Of 276.1875 Ha Forest Land In Favour Of M/S Seli Hydro Electric Power Company 12 Ltd. For The Construction Of 400 Mw Seli Hydro Electric Project With In The Jurisdiction Of Himachal Pradesh Lahaul Forest Division, District Lahaul And Spiti. Himachal Pradesh Diversion Of Forest Land For 1551.60 Ha Of Forest Land Und Er The Forest (Conservation), 13 Mizoram Act, 1980 Got Construction Of Tipaimukh Hydro Elctrict Project In Mizoram

Details of Proposals seeking Prior Approval of Central Government Under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for Diversion of Forest Land For Wind Projects Pending Before the Government of India.

S.No. Name of Proposal State Diversion Of 123.09 Ha Of Reserved Forest Land For Construction Of Wind Power Project At 1 Village Lifri, Lakshimpur (Netra),Ugedi & Nagvir, Ta Nakhatrana, District Kuchchh In Favour Gujarat Of Enercon (India) Limited, Vadodara, District Of Gujarat. Diversion Of 27.832 Ha. Of Forest Land For Setting Up Of 10.40 Mw Wpp Situated In Barren 2 Hill Ranges Of Saundatti & Ramadurg Taluks, Belgaum Dist. In Favour Of M/S. Enercon (India) Karnataka Ltd. Diversion Of 224 Ha Of Forest Land In Jattinakatta Reserved Forest (North East And South 3 East) Uchchangidurga Rf And Other Forest Areas In Harapanahalli Range Of Davanagere Forest Karnataka Division For The Establishment Of 159.60 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour O Diversion Of 224 Ha Of Forest Land In Jathinakatt North East And South East Reserved Forest 4 Uchchangidurga Rf And Other Forest Areas In Harapanahalli Range Of Davanagere Forest Karnataka Division For The Establishment Of 159.60 Mw Windpower Project In Favour Of M/ 5 For Construction 49.5 Mw Wind Form Project In F/O M/S Ansolidetad Enegry Consultent Ltd Madhya Pradesh 6 For Construction Wind Form Project In F/O Suzlon Energy Ltd. Indore Madhya Pradesh 7 For Construction 18 Mw Wind Power Project In F/O Marut Shakti Energy India Ltd Madhya Pradesh

Diverison Of 0.1832 Ha. Forest Land For Laying 33 Kv Transmission Line In F/O Win Vind 8 Maharashtra Energy Power Ltd.

Details of Proposals seeking Prior Approval of Central Government Under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for Diversion of Forest Land For Thermal Projects Pending Before the Government of India.

S.No. Name of Proposal State Diversion Of 150.380 Ha Of Forest Land For Establishment Of Thermal Power Plant And 1 Relevant Works In Favour Of M/S Dheeru Powergen Pvt. Ltd. In Katghora Forest Division, Chhattishgarh District Korba, Chhattisgarh. Diversion Of 151.762 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of Super Thermal Power Plant, Lara 2 (5x800 Mw Capicity (4000mw) In Favour Of Ntpc Raigarh Forest Division, Raigarh, Chhattishgarh Chhattisgarh. Diversion Of 279.421 Ha Of Forest Land For The Establishment Of 1320 Mw Super Thermal 3 Power Plant In South Sarguja Forest Division, Sarguja District In Favour Of Iffco Chhattisgarh Chhattishgarh Power Ltd. For Construction Electro Thermal Project 1980 Mw In F/O M/S Welspan Energey Ltd. Katni 4 Madhya Pradesh Distt. Of Madhya Pradesh Diversion Of 7.438 Ha Of Forest Land For Establishment Of Proposed 1320 Mw (2x 660 Mw) 5 Lanco Babandh Power Plant By M/S Lanco Babandh Power Pvt. Ltd. In Kurunti And Orissa Kharagparasad Village Of Dhenkanal 6 Kalisindh Dam To Thermal Power Plant Water Pipe And Railway Line In Favour Of Rvun Rajasthan Diversion Of 9.83 Ha. Of Forest Land In Palaiyur Rf Of Maduranthagam Range In 7 Kancheepuram District For Cheyyur Mega Power Project In Favour Of The Director, Coastal Tamil Nadu Tamil Nadu Power Limited, New Delhi.

ANNEXURE -II LIST OF THERMAL POWER PROJECTS GRANTED ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCEDURING 2009, 2010 AND 2011 STATE- WISE.

S.No Name of the State Year 2009 2010 2011 Total 1 Arunachal Pradesh - - - - 2 Assam - - - - 3 Andhra Pradesh 9 9 1 19 4 Bihar 1 1 1 3 5 Chhattisgarh 3 7 5 15 6 Delhi - - 1 1 7 Goa 1 - - 1 8 Gujarat 2 6 5 13 9 Haryana - - 1 1 10 Himachal Pradesh - - - - 11 Jammu & Kashmir - - - - 12 Jharkhand 3 1 3 7 13 Karnataka 2 3 5 14 Kerala - - - - 15 Madhya Pradesh 3 5 1 9 16 Maharashtra 5 6 6 17 17 Manipur - - - - 18 Meghalaya - - 1 1 19 Mizoram - - - - 20 Orissa 3 5 2 10 21 Punjab - - - 22 Rajasthan 3 1 1 5 23 Sikkim - - - - 24 Tamil-Nadu 3 6 7 16 25 Tripura - - - - 26 Uttarakhand - - 3 3 27 Uttar Pradesh 4 - 2 6 28 West Bengal - - 1 1 Total 42 50 41 133

State wise list of EC issued for thermal power projects during 2009

SL. No. Subject Date of issue Andhra Pradesh

1 1980 MW Coal fired TPP of M/s Krishnapatnam energy Ltd in Nellore Distt., in Andhra 17/06/2009 Pradesh 2 Enhancement of Project Capacity from 1050 MW to 2x600 MW TPP of Udupi Power 09/09/2009 Corporation Ltd. at Padubidri near Mangalore, in North Kannada Distt., in Andhra Pradesh

3 2640 MW Bhavanapadu TPP M/s East Coast Energy Pvt. Ltd. near Kakrapalli Village, inSri 09/04/2009 KakulamDistt., in Andhra Pradesh 4 Kakatiya Thermal Power Plant of M/s Andhra Pradesh Power Generation Corporation Ltd 05/02/2009 in Warangal Distt., in Andhra Pradesh 5 1040 MW (2x520 MW) TPP of Hinduja Power Project of M/s Hinduja National Power 04/03/2009 Corporation Ltd at Visakhapatnam Andhra Pradesh 6 2640 MW TPP M/s Nagarjuna Construction Co. Ltd. at Sompeta 09/12/2009 SrikakulamDistt., in Andhra Pradesh 7 1x300 MW coal based power project phase II of M/s Meenakshi Energy Pvt. Ltd at 19/10/2009 village Thammenapatnam Nellore Distt., in A.P 8 1980 MW Coal based TPP of M/s Thermal Powertech (India) Ltd. at village 04/11/2009 Puinapuram in Nellore Distt., in A.P 9 2x300 MW Merchant Power Plant of M/s Singareni Collieries Co. Ltd at village Jaipur, in 28/10/2009 AdilabadDistt., in A.P Bihar 10 2x195 mw (Stage-II) Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s KantiBijleeUtpadan Nigam 09/11/2009 Ltd. at village kanti, in Muzaffarpur In Bihar.

Chhattisgarh 11 1x43 MW Coal Based Power Plant (Phase-II) of M/s Arasmeta Captive Power Company 18/02/2009 Private Ltd at Gopalnagar, District Janjgir- Champa ,in Chhattisgarh 12 2x600 MW Singhitari TPP of M/s Athena Chhattisgarh Power Pvt. Ltd near villages 17/07/2009 Singhitarai, in Janjgir-Champa in Chhattisgarh 13 540 MW Coal based TPP of M/s VandanaVidyut Ltd in KorbaDistt., in Chhattisgarh 09/03/2009 Goa 14 Sancole, Zuarinagar of M/s Reliance Infrastructure Limited 08/05/2009 Gujarat 15 7.5 MW co-generation captive power plant with waste heat recovery system of M/s Alok 12/08/2009 Industries Limited, in Valsad, in Gujarat 16 1200 MW Coal based Power Project of M/s. Essar Power Gujarat Limited near village 21/07/2009 Nana Mandha, in Jamnagar Distt., in Gujarat Jharkhand 17 270 MW TPP of M/s Adhunik Power Resources Ltd. at Vill. Padampur 31/08/2009 SaraikelaKharswan , in Jharkhand 18 2000 MW Coal based STPP of M/s Essar Power Jharkhand Limited near Chandwa, in 08/05/2009 Latehar Distt., in Jharkhand 19 2000 MW Coal based Power Project of M/s Essar Power Jharkhand Ltd at Latehar , in 08/05/2009 Jharkhand Karnataka 20 2X800 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Karnataka Power Corporation Ltd. 17/11/2009 at Yermarus near Vadloor RaichurDistt., in Karnataka 21 1x 600 MW TPPat Bellary TPS Unit-3 of M/s KPCL at Bellary In Karnataka 17/11/2009 Madhya Pradesh 22 2x250 MW Extension Units 10-11 of M/s M.P. Power Generation Co. Ltd. at Satpura TPS, 27/02/2009 in Betul Distt., in M.P 23 2x500 MW Vindhyachal Super Thermal Power Project, Stage-IV of M/s National Thermal 05/02/2009 Power Corporation Ltd., in Singrauli Distt., in M.P 24 2x500 MW TPP of M/s Jaiprakash Associates at Nigri, in 26/08/2009 SidhiDistt., in M.P Maharashtra 25 405 MW (270 MW +135 MW) TPP of M/s Patni Energy Pvt. Ltd phase-II at Alibag, in 31/08/2009 RaigadDistt., in Maharashtra 26 2x500 MW Chandrapur STPP of M/s Mahagenco,inChandrapurDisst., 30/01/2009 , in Maharashtra. 27 1320 MW (2x660 MW) TPP of M/s Sophia Power Ltd. at Additional Amaravati Industrial 27/02/2009 Area Amravati Distt., in Maharashtra 28 1600 MW Coal based power project of M/s Tata Power Co. Ltd. at Dherand/Shahpur, in 09/12/2009 Raigad, in Maharashtra 29 2x300 MW Coal based Thermal Power Project of M/s Dhariwal Infrastructure(P) Ltd in 04/12/2009 MIDC industrial area at village Tadali , in Chandrapur Distt., in Maharashtra Orissa 30 4x350 MW Coal based Power Plant of M/s KVK Nilanchal Power Pvt. Ltd.in Cuttack 18/02/2009 Distt., in Orissa 31 2x350 MW Coal Based Thermal Power plant of M/s Ind-Barath Energy (Utkal) Ltd. at 30/11/2009 Shajbahal In Jharsuguda, in Orissa 32 2640 MW Coal based PP of M/s LancoBabandh Power Pvt. Ltd. at Dhenkanal ,in Orissa 17/02/2009 Rajasthan 33 2x600 MW kalisindh Coal Based TPP of M/s RRVUNL at Kalisindh, in 26/02/2009 JhalawarDistt., in Rajasthan 34 7.5 MW Biomass based Power Project of M/s Sanjog Sugars & Eco Power Pvt. Ltd. atVill. 16/07/2009 Sangaria in HanumangarhDistt., in Rajasthan 35 10 MW Biomass Based Power Plant of M/s Sathyam Power Pvt. Ltd at Vill. Khatoli,in Kota 03/11/2009 Distt., in Rajasthan Tamilnadu

36 1200 MW Imported coal based TPP of M/s North Chennai Power Co. Ltd. at 31/08/2009 Kattupalli&kalani Villages in ThiruvallurDistt., in Tamilnadu 37 1x600 MW Ennore TPS of M/s TNEB at vill. Ernavur, in Thiruvallur Distt., in Tamilnadu 03/06/2009 38 2140 MW Coal based merchant TPP of M/s Tridem Port and Power Co. Ltd. 09/12/2009 at village Keelapidagai ,in NagapattinamDistt., in Tamilnadu Uttar Pradesh 39 Rihand Super Thermal Power Project Stage-III (2x500 MW) of M/s NTPC Ltd. in 05/02/2009 SonebhadraDistt., in Uttar Pradesh 40 3x660 MW TPP of M/s Prayagraj Power Generation Company Ltd. at Bara 08/09/2009 In Allahabad Distt., in Uttar Pradesh. 41 2x660 MW TPP of M/s Sangam Power Gen. Co. Ltd. at Karchhana, in Allahabad Distt., in 30/10/2009 Uttar Pradesh 42 2x300 MW Thermal Power Project Stage-II of M/s Reliance Power Ltd.Expansion at village 20/07/2009 Chaudhera, in ShahajahanpurDistt., in Uttar Pradesh.

State wise list of issued for thermal power project during 2010

SL. No. Subject Date of issue Andhra Pradesh 1 800 MW gas based Combined Cycle PP of M/s Vemagiri Power Genaration Ltd.in 28/01/2010 Vemagiri, in East Godavari Distt., in Andhra Pradesh 2. 2X660 MW Super Critical Imported Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Nelcast 30/09/2010 Energy Corporation Ltd. at villages Painampuram&Sivarampuram, in MuthukurMandal, in Andhra Pradesh 3. 4x660 MW KomardaTPP of M/s Alfa Infraprop Pvt. Ltd, in Vizianagaram 15/03/2010 Distt., in Andhra Pradesh. 4. 3x350 MW Gas Based CCPP of M/s Gautami Power (Samalkot) Pvt. Ltd. at IDA, Sawalkot, 21/04/2010 in Andhra Pradesh 5. 400 MW Gas based CCPP, St-II extn project of M/s GVK Power (Jegurupadu) Private Ltd. 20/05/2010 at Jegurupadu, in East Godavari Distt., in Andhra Pradesh 6. 1200 MW gas based Project expansion of M/s Reliance Infrastructure Ltd at Samalkot 28/05/2010 Power Station (SPS) in IDA Peddappuram Industrial Estate of East Godavari Distt., in Andhra Pradesh 7. 1350 MW Natural Gas Based CCPP of M/s Spectrum Power Generation Ltd at Kakinada , 01/06/2010 in Andhra Pradesh 8. Rayalaseema TPP Stage-IV (1 x 600 MW) of M/s Andhra Pradesh Power Generation 21/10/2010 Corporation Ltd. near V. V. Reddy Nagar, YerraguntlaMandal, in Kadapa (A.P.) 9. 2 x 660 MW PP in Villages of M/s Singareni Collieries Company Ltd. at Jaipur Mandal, In 27/12/2010 AdilabadDistt., in Andhra Pradesh Bihar

10 3x660 MW Nabinagar Super TPP of M/s Nabinagar Power Generation Co-Pvt. Ltd. a New 27/12/2010 Nabinagar, in District, Aurangabad (Bihar) Chhattisgarh 11. 2x600 MW Coal Based TPP of M/s Athena Chhattisgarh Power Pvt. Ltd. at villages 04/06/2010 Singhitarai, Benipali, Odekera&Nimohi,, in Chattisgarh 12. 3x350 MW Coal Based TPP of M/s DheeruPowergen Pvt Ltd. 18/01/2010 At village Khatgora, in KorbaDistt., in Chattisgarh 13. 2x300 MW Coal based TPP of 20/05/2010 M/s Korba West Power Co.Ltd., in Bade Bhandar, in Raigarh, in Chhattishgarh 14. 660 MW Amarkantak TPP Expansion (Unit IV) of M/s LancoAmarkantak Power Pvt. Ltd. 26/05/2010 near Patadi in KorbaDistt., in Chhattisgarh 15. 1320 MW Coal based TPP of M/s DB Power Ltd. in Janjgir-Champa 16/09/2010 ,in Chhattisgarh . 16. 4x300 Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s SKS Power Generation (Chhattisgarh) Ltd. 05/10/2010 at RaigarhDistt., in Chhattisgarh 17. 2x150 (Phase-II) Captive Power Plant based of M/s Jindal Steel & Power Ltd. at 09/11/2010 Dongamahua, RaigarhDistt, in Chhattisgarh Gujarat 18. 2x800 MW TPP near Pipavav Port of M/s Videocon Industries Ltd at Amreli Distt., in Gujarat. 04/02/2010

19. 2X250 MW Lignite Based TPP of M/s Bhavnagar Energy Company Ltd. at Padva, in 10/02/2010 Bhavnagar, in Gujarat. 20. Expansion of 3x660 MW Coal based TPP of M/s Adani Power Ltd. at Tunda, in 20/05/2010 KuchchhDistt., in Gujarat. 21. Expansion of existing (3x382.5 MW) Gas based TPP of M/s Torrent Power Ltd.by addition 09/09/2010 of 1x382.5 MW Gas based TPP at Vill- Akhakhol, TalukaKamrej, in Surat (Gujarat) 22. Expansion of 1x400 MW Gas Based PP by addition of 1x400 MW Gas Based Unit of M/s 12/10/10 Torrent Power Ltd. at Dahej SEZ, District: Bharuch (Gujarat) 23. 1x20 MW PP of M/s Divine Vidyut Ltd. at Vill. Kaushalgarh, in Gujarat. 18/10/2010 Jharkhand 24. 540 MW (2x270 MW) TPP of M/s Corporate Power Ltd. at Village Bana, in LateharDistt., 11/11/2010

i Jharkhand

Karnataka 25. 420MW Natural gas based TPP of M/s Surana Power Ltd. at KIADB industrial area in 09/09/2010 Raichur Distt., in Karnataka 26. Co-Gen Power Plant 15 MW to Additional 15 MW of M/s Venkateshwara Power Project 09/09/2010 Ltd. at Sy Nos.84 A/p BedkihalChikodiTaluka, in District: Belgaum (Karnataka) 27. Expension of present Co-Gen Power Plant of 40 MW to 62 MW Additional 22 MW Co-Gen 27/12/2010 Power Plant Unit of M/s Nirani Sugars Ltd. at SyNos 166 , Kulali Cross, Jamakhandi road, Mudhol, in District: Bagalkot , in Karnataka Madhya Pradesh 28. 2x660 MW TPP and Cement Grinding Unit of 2.0 TPA of M/s Jaiprakash Power Ventures 25/02/2010 Ltd. at Nigri, in Singrauli, in M.P 29. 2x300 MW Coal based TPP of M/s Jhabua Power Ltd. at Barela Gorakhpur, in Seoi, in M.P 17/02/2010 30. 3960 MW PP of M/s Chitrangi Power Pv t. Ltd. at ChitrangiSingrauli, in M.P 28/05/2010 31 1200 MW TPP of M/s Moserbaer Ltd. at Annupur, in M.P 28/05/2010 32. 1320 MW (2x660 MW) Coal Based TPP of M/s DB Power (Madhya Pradesh) Ltd. at 09/09/2010 Deosar, District: Singrauli , in M.P Maharashtra 33. Expansion from 1320 MW to 3300 MW by addition of 3x660 MW Coal Based Thermal 22/04/2010 Power Plant of M/s Adani Power Maharashtra Pvt.Ltd in MIDC Industrial Area at village Tiroda, in Gonida, in Maharastra 34. 1X300 MW Phase-2 TPP of M/s Emco Energy Ltd. in Warora, in Chandrapur,inMaharastra 25/05/2010 35. 2x800 MW Koradi TPS expansion of M/s MAHAGENCO at Nagpur ,in Maharashtra 04/01/2010 36. 2x660 MW Coal based TPP of M/s India bulls Realtech Ltd. at Sinnar, in District: Nasik in 28/07/10 Maharashtra 37. 2x660 MW Solapur Super TPP M/s NTPC Limited. at Vill-Hotgi, in District- Solapur 27/12/2010 (Maharashtra) 38. 2 x 660 Stage-II Mouda Super Thermal Power Project of M/s NTPC Ltd. 30/12/2010 In District : Nagpur - Maharashtra Orissa 39. Expansion of existing Coal based Thermal Power Plant by addition of 2x660 MW (Unit 3& 04/02/2010 4) of /s Orissa Power Generation Corporation Ltd.at village Banaharpalli., in Jharsuguda, in Orissa 40. 2x67.5 MW Coal based Captive Thermal Power Plant of M/s Bhubaneshwar Power Pvt. 14/05/2010 Ltd.at Anantpur, in Cuttack Distt., in Orrisa 41. 2x660 MW Super Critical Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s LancoBabandh Power 17/02/2010 Private Ltd. near Khurunti, in DistrictDhenkanal , in Orissa 42. 2x525 MW Coal based Thermal Power Plant of : M/s Monnet Power Company Ltd at 29/06/2010 Village Malibrahmani in Chandipada Block District: Angul , in Orrisa 43. 20 MW Biomass based power plant of M/s Shalivahana Green Energy Ltd. at Nimidha 21/10/10 Village, District-Dhenkanal, Orissa Rajasthan 44. 2x150 MW TPP of M/s Shree Cement Ltd. near village-AndheriDeori, Tehsil Masuda 30/11/2010 District: Ajmer, Rajasthan Tamilnadu 45 2x500 MW TPP of M/s Patel Power Ltd. , in NagapattianamDistt., 26/03/2010 , in Tamil nadu 46. 4000 MW UMPP Coal based TPP captive Port and Desalination Plant of M/s IL&FS Ltd. 31/05/2010 near Cuddalore , in Tamil Nadu. 47. 1X660 MW Super Critical Coal Thermal Power Plant (TPP) of M/s Ind-Barath Power 12/07/10 (Madras) Ltd In District: Tuticorin , in Tamil Nadu 48. 2x500 MW Thermal Power Station of : M/s Neyveli Lignite Corporation Ltd. at Neyveli, in 21/10/10 District: Cuddolore, in Tamilnadu 49. 2x660 MW TPP of M/s NSL Nagapatnam Power and Infratech Pvt. Ltd. 13/10/10 at Talachanakadu Village, TarangambaddiTaluk, in District: Nagapatnam , in Tamilnadu 50. 1x525 MW imported coal based TPP Stage-IV of M/s Spic Electric Power Corporation Pvt. 03/11/2010 Ltd. at Tuticorin District: Tuticorin, in Tamilnadu

State wise list of issued for thermal power project during 2011

SL. No. Subject Date of issue Andhra Pradesh 1 1200 MW (Phase-II) Gas Based Expansion of M/s Reliance Infrastructure Ltd at Samalkot 26/04/2011 Power Station(SPS), IDA PeddapuramSamalkotMandal, in District: East Godavari, in Andhra Pradesh Bihar 2 2640 MW (4x660 MW) Coal based TPP of M/s Jas Infrastructure Capital Pvt. Limited 29/06/2011 at Village Siriya, in District Banka (Bihar) Chhattisgarh

3 2 x 300 MW TPP of M/s TRN Energy Pvt. Ltd. in 18/03/2011 District- Raigarh (Chhattisgarh)

4 Expansion of 1000 MW (4x250 MW) by addition of 4x600 MW (2400 MW) Coal Based 18/03/2011 Thermal Power Plant of M/s Jindal Power Ltd. at Village:Tamnar,inDistrict:Raigarh Chhattisgarh 5 2 x 660 MW to 2 x 685 Coal Based Super Critical of M/s GMR Energy Ltd. 09/05/2011 at Village-Raikheda, in Tilda Block, in District: Raipur (Chhattisgarh)

6 Expansion of existing 12MW Biomass based PP of M/s Mahavir Energy & Coal 05/05/2011 Beneficiation Ltd. to 24MW by addition of 12MW at VikllageBhengari, Tehsil- Gharghoda, in District: Raigarh, Chhattisgarh 7 2x660 MW Super Thermal Power project of M/s Visa Power Ltd. 11/07/2011 at Raigarh , in Raigarh, Chhattisgarh

Delhi 8 800 MW Pragati –II Gas Based CCPP of M/s Pragati Power Corporation Ltd. at Banmauli 09/02/2011 , in District: South West Delhi

Gujarat 9 395 MW Gas Based CCPP-III Unit of M/s Gujarat State Electricity Cor. Ltd. 13/01/2011 at Dhuvaran TPS, in District- Anand (Gujarat)

10 1x 7.2 MW Gas Based Captive TPP M/s Raymond Ltd. at Village-Khadki-Udwada, 29/04/2011 TaluksPardi, in District: Valsad, Gujarat

11 2 x 660 Coal Based super TPP of M/s Sanghi Energy Ltd. 07/06/2011 at Sanghipuram, in District: Kutch, Gujarat

12 2640MW(4x660 MW ) Dahej Thermal Power station of M/s Adani Power Dahej Ltd. in 25/10/2011 District: Dahej, Gujarat

13 2X400 MW Gas based Combined Cycle Power Project of M/s Torrent Power Ltd. 21/10/2011 at Dahej SEZ , in District: Bharuch, Gujarat

Haryana

14 83 MW Captive Thermal Power Plant at Gurgaon of M/s Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. 03/06/2011 In District: Gurgaon (Haryana) Jharkhand 15 2x10 MW Captive Power Project of M/s Usha Martin Ltd. 18/03/2011 at Village-Tatisilwai, District: Ranchi,

16 Expansion of existing 1 x 270 MW by addition of 3 x 270 MW coal based TPP of M/s 09/05/2011 Adhunik Power Natural Resources Ltd. at Village –Padampur, in District: Saraikela-Kharsawan, Jharkhand

17 2x63 MW Power plant of M/s Inland Power Ltd at Tonagatu, Gola, in 20/12/2011 District: Ramgarh, Jharkhand

Madhya Pradesh 18 1300 MW gas based Power Plant of M/s DMICDC Guna Power Company Limited at 05/05/2011 Chainpura Industrial Area in Raghogarh Tehsil, in District: Guna, Madhya Pradesh

Maharashtra 19 2 x 660 LancoVidarbha TPP of M/s LancoVidarbha Thermal Power Ltd. 24/02/2011 at Mandva Village, in District:Wardha , in Maharashtra

20 1300 MW Gas Based PP of M/s DMICDC Bhagad Power Co. Ltd. at MIDC Vill-Bhagad 26/04/2011 Industrial Estate in District-Raigarh, Maharashtra

21 1350 MW Stage II Amravati TPP of M/s Indiabulls Power Ltd at Nandgaompeth, in 27/05/2011 District: Amravati, Maharashtra

22 1300 MW gas based power project of M/s DMICDC Indapur Power Company Ltd.at 03/06/2011 MIDC Indapur Industrial Estate in Indapur,, in District: Pune, Maharashtra

23 1000 MW Gas based CCPP of M/s Hecate Power Systems Ltd. 03/06/2011

at Additional Latur Industrial area,in District: Latur,(Maharashtra)

24 1350 MW Stage II Nasik TPP of : M/s IndiabullsRealtech Ltd at Sinnar SEZ, 05/08/2011 Nasik, Maharashtra

Meghalaya 25 No. J-13012/33/11-IA II (T) 03/06/2011 Name: 43 MW TPP at Lumshnong, Jaintia Hills, District: Lumshnong ,Meghalaya Company: M/s Meghalaya Power Ltd.

Orissa 26 1X660 MW TPP of M/s Tata Power Company Ltd. 15/02/2011 at Narajmarthapur, in District:- Cuttack (Orissa)

27 1x350 MW Coal based Thermal Power Plant (Phase –II) of M/s GMR Kamalanga Energy 05/12/2011 Ltd. at village Kamalanga, Tehsil Odapada , in District: Dhenkanal, Orissa

Rajasthan 28 1320 MW (2 x 660 MW) TPP at Kawai Thermal Power Station of M/s Adani Power 04/05/2011 Rajasthan Ltd. District: Baran (Rajasthan)

Tamil-Nadu 29 1200 MW TPP with Captive Jetty in Tarangambadi Taluk M/s Chetinad Power Corporation 20/01/2011 Pvt. Ltd. , in District: Nagapattinam (TN)

30 2 x35 MW Captive Power Plant of M/s Tulsyan NEC Ltd. at Sithoornattam Village 22/02/2011 GummidipoondiTaluk, in District: Thirovallur Tamil Nadu

31 2x150 MW 100% Imported based TPP of M/s Accord Energy Corporation Pvt. Ltd. at 18/05/2011 Sirupulalpettai Village, GummidipoondiTaluk, in District : Thiruvallur, in Tamilnadu

32 2 x 80 MW Coal Based TPP within the existing 2 x 270 MW PP of M/s OPG Power 18/05/2011 Generation Pvt. Ltd. at Gummidipoondi, in District: Thiruvallur Tamil Nadu

33 Expansion of Combined Cycle PP 20/05/2011 from 330 MW to 1410 MW by installing 3 x 360 MW units dual fuel fired (Natural Gas and Naphtha of of M/s PPN Power Generating company Pvt. Ltd. at Village- Pillaiperumalinallur&Manickapangu, Tarangambadi Taluk, in District: Nagapatinam Tamil Nadu

34 3 x 600 MW TPP of M/s SRM Energy Ltd. at Taluk, in 18/05/2011 District:Cuddalore

35 2 x 60 MW 100% Imported based captive PP of M/s ARS Metals Ltd. at Sithurnatham, 20/05/2011 Sirupulalpettai&Eguvarpalayam Village-GummidipoondiTaluk, in District: Thiruvallur, (T.N.)

Uttar Pradesh 36 3 x 660 MW Coal Based TPP of M/s Lalitpur Power Generation Company Ltd. in 31/03/2011 Mirchwara and Burogaon , Vill- Mahroni, in District- Lalitpur (U.P.)

37 Tanda Thermal Power Project , Stage-II (2X660 MW) of M/s NTPC Ltd at village 13/04/2011 Bahadurpur , in District: Ambedkar Nagar :

Uttarakhand 38 Expansion of 1x225 gas based Combined Cycle power Project by adition of 225 MW to 31/01/2011 450MW CCPP of M/s Sravanthi Energy Pvt. Ltd. at Khaikhera, in Kashipur Tehsil, in District- Udhamsinghnagar

39 Proposed 358 MW Gas based Power Project of M/s Beta Infratech Pvt. Ltd 31/01/2011 at Kashipur , in District: Udhamsingh Nagar( Uttrakhand)

40 225 MW Gas based Combined Cycle Power Plant of : M/s Gama Inferaprop Pvt. Ltd., in 21/03/2011 District: Udham Singh Nagar

West Bengal

41 Sagardighi Thermal Power Projects( 2x500MW +20%) ,Ph-II Extension of M/s West 18/05/2011 Bengal Power Development Corporation Ltd at Sagardighi, in District: Murshidabad, in W.B

Number of projects granted Environmental Clearance under River Valley & Hydropower Scheme for the last 3 years ( 2009-2011)

S.No State 2009 2010 2011 Total

1 Andhra Pradesh 1 - - 1 2 Arunachal Pradesh - 2 5 7 3 Chattisgarh - - - - 4 Haryana 1 - - 1 5 Himachal Pradesh 2 1 4 7 6 Karnataka 1 1 - 2 7 Kerala - - - - 8 Madhya Pradesh 1 1 - 2 9 Maharashtra 1 2 1 4 10 Manipur - - - - 11 Meghalaya - - - - 12 Orissa - - - - 13 Jammu & Kashmir - - - - 14 Sikkim 1 1 1 3 15 Rajasthan - - 1 1 16 Uttarakhand 1 - - 1 17 Uttar Pradesh 1 1 - 2 18 West Bengal - - - - Total 10 9 12 31

List of River valley & Hydroelectric Projects granted Environmental Clearance in the last 3 years (2009- 2011) and current year -2011

S. No. Year 2009 Date of EC issued Rupsiabagar Khasiabara HEP Project 261 MW ( 3 x 87 MW) in District: Pithorgarh, 1 26/3/2009 Uttarakhand M/s. National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd Sainj HEP Project (100 MW) in District: Kullu, Himachal Pradesh by M/s. Himachal 2 4/5/2009 Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd. Rangit-II HEP Project (66 MW) in District: West Sikkim by M/s. Sikkim Hydro Power 3 10/6/2009 Ventures Ltd. Krishna Delta Modernization Project in District: Krishna, Andhra Pradesh by M/s.CAD 4 1/7/2009 Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh Expansion of Krishna -Koyna Lift Irrigation Project in District : Sangli & Solapur, 5 1/7/2009 Maharashtra by M/s. Maharashtra Krishna Valley Development Corporation Dadupur - Nalvi Irrigation Project in District : Ambala, Yamuna Nagar and Kurukshetra, 6 10/7/2009 Haryana by M/s. Haryana Irrigation Department Sri Rameshwara Lift Irrigation Scheme in District : Belgaum, Karnataka by M/s. 7 10/7/2009 Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Ltd Arjun Sahayak Pariyojna in District : Mahoba, Uttar Pradesh by M/s. Govt. of Uttar 8 09/09/2009 Padesh Name: Upper Narmada Irrigation Project District : Dindari, Madhya Pradesh by M/s. 9 10/09/2009 NVDA Renuka Dam Project in District : Sirmour 10 23/10/2009 Himachal Pradesh by M/s. Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd Year 2010 Halon Irrigation Project in District: Mandla & Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh by M/s. 1 4/01/2010 Narmada Valley Development Authority Upper Bhadra Lift Irrigation Project in District: Chikmagalur, Karnataka by M/s. 2 5/01/2010 Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Ltd Gongri Hydroelectric Project (130 MW) in District: West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh by 3 12.2.2010 M/s. Dirang Energy Private Limited Demwe Lower HEP Project (1750 MW) in District: Lohit, Arunachal Pradesh by M/s. 4 12.2.2010 Athena Energy Ventures Pvt. Ltd Bodwad Parisar Sinchan Yojna in District: Jalgaon & Buldana by M/s. Tapi Irrigation 5 19/4/2010 Development Corporation Integrated Kashang HEP (243 MW) Project in District: Kinnaur by M/s. Himachal 6 16/4/2010 Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd Tashiding Hydroelectric Project (97 MW) District:West Sikkim by M/s. Shiga Energy 7 30.7.2010 Private Limited. 8 Badaun Major Irrigation Project District: Bareily & Badaun, Uttar Pradesh by M/s. Govt. 30.7.2010

of Uttar Pradesh Wakurde Lift Irrigation Scheme in District: Sangli, Maharashtra by M/s. Maharashtra 9 19.8.2010 Krishna Development Corporation Year 2011 Nafra HEP (96 MW) project in District: West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh by M/s. SEW 1 17.1.2011 Nafra Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd Bajoli Holi HEP(180MW) in District: Chamba, Himachal Pradesh by M/s. GMR Energy 2 24.1.2011 Ltd Khuitam HEP (66 MW) project in District: West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh by M/s. 3 28.1.2011 Adishankar Power Pvt. Ltd Dhapewada Lift Irrigation Project in District Gondia, Maharashtra by M/s. Vidarbha 4 9.3.2011 Irrigation Development Corporation, Government of Maharashtra Chanju-I HEP Project ( 36 MW) in District: Chamba of Himachal Pradesh by M/s. 5 20.4.2011 Bajrang Hydro Ltd Shongtong-Karcham HEP Project (402 MW) 6 in District: Kinnaur of Himachal Pradesh by M/s. Hmachal Pradesh Power Corporation 19.5.2011 Ltd Tawang HEP Project Stage-I(600 MW) in District: Tawang of Arunachal Pradesh by 7 10.6.2011 M/s. NHPC Ltd Tawang HEP Project Stage-II (800 MW) in District: Tawang of Arunachal Pradesh by 8 10.6.2011 M/s. NHPC Ltd Tato-II HEP Project (700 MW) in District: West Siang of Arunachal Pradesh by M/s 9 27.6.2011 Tato Hydro Power Pvt. Ltd. Ting Ting HEP (99 MW) Project in West Sikkim District, Sikkim by M/s TT Energy Pvt. 10 4.7.2011 Ltd Kutehr HEP Project (240 MW) in District Chamba of Himachal Pradesh by M/s. M/s. 11 4.7.2011 JSW Energy Ltd Parwan Major Irrigation-cum-Drinking Water Project in District Jhalawar of Rajasthan by 12 30.9.2011 M/s. Water Resources, Government of Rajasthan

List of Nuclear Power Projects Cleared during 2009 to 2011

S.No. Project Details Date of Clearance Maharashtra 1 Jaitapur Nuclear Power Park (6x1650 MW) at village Madban, Taluka Rajapur, District 26.11.2010 Ratnagiri, Maharashtra Company: M/s Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. Tamilnadu 2 Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project Expansion Units 5 & 6 (2x1000 MW) at Kudankulam, 31.12.2009 Tamilnadu Company: M/s Nuclear Power Corporation Ltd.

State-wise Details of Proposals Seeking Forest Clearance to Thermal Power Projects Cleared During the Last Three Years

Sr.No. State and Name of Proposal Remarks Chhattishgarh 1 Diversion Of 114.355 Ha Of Revenue Forest Land For Construction 2x500 Mw In-Principle Marwa-Tendubhatta Thermal Power Project (Mtpp) At Tendubhatta In Favour Of M/S Chhattsgarh Rajya Vidut Mandal. (Crvm) In Janjgir-Champa Forest Division. 2 Diversion Of Additional 0.24 Ha Of Forest Land (Already Diverted 85.514) For In-Principle Construction Of Pump House And Pipeline In Favour Of M/S National Thermal Power Corporation (Ntpc). Gujarat 3 Ash Dyke Pond & Hot Water Channel By Gujarat Electricity Board Approved 4 Diversion Of Forest Land For Section-4 Forest Land For 4000 Mw Mundra Ultra Approved Mega Power Project (Umpp) Jharkhand 5 Diversion Of 494.11 Ha Of Forest Land (Originally Submitted For 622.02 Ha) For Approved Construction Of 4000 Mw Tilaiya Ultra Mega Power Project (Umpp) In Favour Of M/S Jharkhand Integrated Power Limited. 6 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of North Karanpura Super Thermal In-Principle Power Station In Favour Of Ntpc Ltd. Madhya Pradesh 7 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Naveen Ash Band For Satpura Approved Thermal Power Station In Favour Of M/S Madhya Pradesh Power Generating Company Limited 8 Diversion Of 66.294 Ha Of Revenue Forest Land For Construction Of Thermal In-Principle Power Project In Favour Of M/S S.J.K. Powergen Ltd. In District Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh. Maharashtra 9 Diversion Of Forest Land For Establishment Of Adani Thermal Power Project For In-Principle 1980 Mw. Coal Based Thermal Power Plan At Midc Tiroda

Details of Hydel Power Projects For Which Approval Under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 Has Been Accorded During the Last Three Years

Sr.No. State and Name of Proposal Remarks Andhra Pradesh 1 Diversion Of Forest Land For Indira Sagar (Polavaram Project) Across Godavari Approved River, In Khammam, Rajahmundry And Visakhapatnam Forest Circles Arunachal Pradesh 2 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Pare Hydro Electric Project (100 Approved Mw Over Dikrang River) By Neepco Ltd 3 Diversion Of 89.5271 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of Nyamjangchhu Hep In-Principle (780 Mw) In Tawang District Of Arunachal Pradesh By M/S Njc Hydropower Limited 4 Diversion Of 78.45 Ha Forest Land For Implementation Of Nafra Hydro Electric In-Principle Project (96 Mw) In West Kameng District Of Arunachal Pradesh By M/S Sew Nafra Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd. 5 Diversion Of 1415.92 Ha (1408.30 Ha Surface Land + 7.62 Ha Underground In-Principle Land) Of Forest Land For Construction Of Demwe Lower Hydro Electric Project (1750 Mw) In Favour Of M/S Athena Demwe Power Private Limited. Chhattishgarh 6 Construction Of Small Hydro Electric In Favour Of M/S. Savri Power Pvt Ltd Approved 7 Establishment Of 24.75 Megawatt Mandar-I Laghu Viduyat (Hydro Electric) Approved Project In Favour Of Managing Director, Chhattisgarh Energy Consortium (India) Pvt. Ltd., Hydrabad 8 Construction Of Small Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of M/S. Venika Hydro Approved Project Pvt Ltd 9 Construction Of Hydro Power Project In Village-Doomatoli Amd Cjatakpur In Approved Favour Of Guloo Hydro Power Project Pvt. Ltd Haryana 10 Const. Of P&R Goripur Hydro Power On Wjc Rd 95-96 R/S At Village Goripur Approved 11 Setting Up Of Mini Hep At Mussapur On Augmentation Canal Allotted To Puri Approved Oil Mill Ltd., At Village Nissing 12 Const. Of Road & Bridge For Public Use And For 6 Mw Small Hep M/S Bhoruka Approved Power Corporation Ltd. At Vilalge Balachaur 13 Setting Up Mini Hydel Plant At Khukhani Near Vilalge Thaska On Augmentation Approved Canal Rd19.916 Km. Allotted To Puri Oil Mill Ltd. Himachal Pradesh 14 Const. Of 2.4 Mw Kartaul Small Hydro Electric Project, In Favour Of M/S Awadh Approved Bihari Giri, Delhi,. 15 Const. Of 3.00 Mw Sal-Ii In Favour Of M/S Himgiri Infrastructure Development Approved (P) At Sahoo Hep 16 Const. Of 3.00 Mw Pangi Hep In F/O M/S Sai Engineering Foundation, New Approved Shimla 17 Construction Of 36 Mw Chanju-I He Project In Favour Of M/S Indo Arya Central Approved Transport Ltd., New Shimla 18 Const. Of 5 Mw Mini Hep Within The Jurisdisction Of Rohru Ft. Divn. In F/O Approved M/S Sai Engineering Foundation, Sai Bhawan, Sector-4, New Shimla 19 Const. Of 25 Mw Lambadug Hydro Electric Project & 11.3974 Ha Of Forest Land Approved For Construction Of 132 Kv Tr. Line From Lamdug Project To Hpseb Sub Station At Bassi In F/O M/S Ku Hydro Power Pvt. Ltd. Dharamshala Under Hamirpur Wl Divn & Jogindernagar Ft. Divn 20 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Kut-I Small Hydro Electtic Project In Favour Of M/Syadapati Approved Agro Products (P)Ltd. Hyderabad,Forest Division Rampur. 21 Const. Of 4.5 Mw Rajpur Hydro Electric Project On Nogli Khad At Village Approved Rajpur, Ft. Divn. Rampur In F/O M/S Dli Power Pvt. Ltd., House No. 16, Hp Officer Colony (West End), Panthaghati, Shimla-9 22 Const. Of 1.5 Mw Chatarkhand Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Chatarkhand Hydro Approved Imperial Project 23 44.00 Mw Tangnu Romai-I Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of M/S Tangnu Approved Romai Power Generation (P) Ltd. Under Rampur Ft. Divn 24 Construction Of 2.00mw Diklery Small Hep Approved 25 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Gramang Hydro Electric Project Within Kullu Ft. Divn. In F/O Approved M/S Shobla Hydro Power Private Limited, Kullu 26 Const. Of 8.00 Mw Kurmi Hydro Electric Project In F/O M/S Kurmi Energy (P) Approved Ltd. Sco 140-141, Sector 34-A, Chandigarh Under Rampur Forest Divn 27 Permission For 7.00 Mw Holi, Hep In Favour Of Om Energy Generation Pvt. Ltd., Approved At Village Gawala, Po Kuleth, Sub Tehsil Holi 28 Const. Of 2.00 Mw Hamal Small Hydro Electric Project, In Favour Of M/S Hamal Approved Hydel Ltd., Panchkula. 29 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Ani (Behna) Hep In Favour Of M/S Growel Energy Company Approved Ltd. Mumbai 30 Const. Of 3.00 Mw Shaung Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Darjeeling Power Ltd. Approved 31 Const. Of 3.00 Mw Behna-I Hep In Favour Of M/S Himandri Hydro Power Project Approved Pvt,. Ltd., 32 Const. Of 2.4 Mw Ubharah Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Shakti Hep Company (P) Approved Ltd. New Delhi 33 Diversion Of Forest Land For The Construction Of 100 Mw Sainj Hydro Electric Approved Project In Favour Of H.P. Power Corporation Ltd., (Hpseb) 34 Const. Of 24.00 Mw Hep In Favour Of Kut Energy Private Limited Approved

35 Const. Of 2 X 2250 Kw Palor - Ii Small Hydro Power Project Approved 36 Const. Of 6 Mw Tangnu Romai-Ii Hep In Favour Of Tangu Romai Power Approved Generation Ltd. Delhi 37 Const. Of 3.6 Mw Gaj-Garju Stage-I Small Hep M/S Kangra Hydero Electrict Approved Venture Pvt. Ltd., Ranital 38 Const. Of 24.00 Mw Baragaon Hydro Electric Project Within Jursidiction Of Kullu Approved Ft. Divn. In F/O M/S Kanchanjunga Power Co. (Pvt) Ltd., Noida (Up) 39 Const. Of 5 Mw Seehi-Ii Small Hep In F/O M/S Spaceage Switchgears Ltd. Under Approved Rampur Ft. Divn. 40 Const. Of 4 Mw Balh Padhar Small Hep Within Jurisdiction Of Mandi & Approved Jogindernagar Ft. Divn. In F/O M/S Usp Hydro Energy Ltd. 41 Construction Of 8.00 Mw Raura Hep In Favour Of Dli Power (India) Pvt. Ltd., Approved 42 Const. Of 4.8 Mw Mauni-Ii Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Ind-Barath Energies Approved Limited At Village Kharota, 43 Const. Of 9.00 Mw Rala Small Hep In Faovur Of M/S Taranda Hydro Power Pvt. Approved Ltd., 44 Const. Of Lower Uhc Hep In Favour Of M/S Trident Power Systems Ltd., In-Principle 45 Const. Of 24.60 Mw Wanger Homte Hep In Favour Of Panchhor Hydro Power In-Principle Ltd., 46 Diversion Of 0.3472 Ha Of Additional Forest Land In Favour Of Himachal In-Principle Pradesh Power Corporation Limited For The Construction Of Additional Adit-1 And Dit-2 In Respect Of 111 Mw Sawra Kuddu He Project. 47 Diversion Of 63.5015 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 402 Mw In-Principle Shongtong-Karcham Hep With The Jurisdiction Of Kinnaur Forest Division In Favour Of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited. 48 Diversion Of 57.7365 Ha Of Forest Land In Favour Of M/S Sjvn (A Joint Vernture In-Principle Of Government Of India And Govt. Of Hp) For The Construction Of 66.00 Mw Dhaula Sidh Hep, Within The Juridiction Of Palampu, Hamirpur And Dehra Forest Divisions, Distt. Kangra & Hamirpur, Hp. 49 1.20 Mw Salanti Small Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of M/S Sturdy Industries In-Principle Ltd., Parwanoo Under Rohru F.Divn. 50 Const. Of 24.00mw Selti-Masrang Hep In Favour Of Ramesh Hep In-Principle 51 Const. Of 12 Mw Jogani Hep Within Jurisdiction Of Rampur Ft. Divn. In F/O M/S In-Principle Gangdari Hydro Electric Power P. Ltd., Gamba House, South End, Lane Iv, Ph.1, New Shimla 52 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Jari Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Wil Power Proejcts, Near In-Principle Himurja Office, Dhalpur 53 4.5 Mw Siul Baroti Small Hydroelectric Project In F/O M/S Siul Baroti Power In-Principle Ltd., Churah Ft. Divn. 54 Const. Of 4.00 Mw Jirah Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Kapil Mohan Associates In-Principle 55 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Sumez Hep In-Principle 56 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Kuwarsi Hep In Favour Of M/S V.B. Hydro Project Ltd., In-Principle 57 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Luni -Ii Hep In Favour Of M/S Sri Sai Krishna Hydro Energies In-Principle Pvt. 58 Diversion Of 17.6857 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 130 Mw Integrated In-Principle Kashang -Stage Ii & Iii Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of M/S Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited 59 Diversion Of 6.7190 Ha Of Additional Forest Land (3.6502 Ha Surface Rights In-Principle And 3.0688 Ha Underground Area) For Construction Of Road To Surge Shaft, Flushing Tunnel And Underground Access To Baspa Hep Power House From Karcham Bridge In Favour Of M/S. Jaypee Karcham Hydro Corporation Limited. 60 Const. Of 5 Mw Baner Sangam Small Hep Within Jurisdiction Of Dharamshala & In-Principle Dehra Ft. Divns In F/O M/S Yogindera Powers Ltd. 61 Const. Of 2.00 Mw Manihar Small Hep In Faovur Of M/S Bhuvneshwari In-Principle Enterprises Shishamati Road, Dhalpur, 62 Diversion Of 75.304 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction 0f 180 Mw Bajoli - Holi In-Principle Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of Gmr Bajoli Holi Hydor Power Pvt. Ltd. In Bhermour Forest Division In Chamba Distt. Of Himachal Pradesh. 63 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Balargha Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Sandhya Hep Balarha In-Principle Pvt. Ltd., 64 Const. Of 70.00 Mw Dhamwari Sunda Hep In Favour Of M/S Dhamwari Power In-Principle Company Private Ltd., Up 6 Nos. Of Tranmission Poles Beyond Pole No. 25 To Pole No. 31 Upto Hpseb Control Sub Statation At Jhahari, In Favour Of Dli Power (India) Ltd., 65 Const. Of 9 Mw Sarsadi-Ii Small Hep In Favour Of Aroma Colonizers Pvt. In-Principle Ltd.,Vpo Shamshi 66 Diversion Of 61.4083 Ha Of Forest Land Being Diverted/ Transferred In Favour In-Principle Of M/S Jsw Energy Ltd. For The Construction Of 240 Mw Kuther Hydroelectric Project Within The Jurisdiction Of Bharmour Forest Division, Distt. Chamba, H.P. 67 Const. Of Shalvi (4.75 Mw) In Favouar Of Bla Shalvi Hep In Chopal In-Principle 68 Diversion Of 4.7641 Of Forest Land In Favour Of M/S Jawala Hydro Power Pvt. In-Principle Ltd, For The Construction Of 5.00 Mw Malana Top Small Hydro Electric Project Within The Jurisdiction Of Parbati Forest Division And Distt. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. 69 Const. Of 4.8 Mw Aleo -Ii Shep In Favour Of M/S Aleo Manali Hep In-Principle 70 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Suil-Ii Small Hep In Favour Of Kav Hydro Private Ltd., In-Principle

71 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Nanti Small Hydro Electric Project, In Favour Of M/S In-Principle Suryakantha Poltry's Pvt. Ltd., Prathipedu, A.P. 72 Const. Of 9.6 Mw Jeori Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Technology House (India) In-Principle Pvt. Ltd., 73 Const. Of 12 Mw Upper Nanti Hep Within Jurisdiction Of Rampur Ft. Divn. In In-Principle F/O M/S Nanti Hydro Electric Pvt. Ltd., New Shimla 74 Const. Of 20 Mw Roura -Ii Shep In Favour Of M/S Roura Non Conventional In-Principle Energey Pvt. Ltd., Chandigarh 75 Const. Of 5.00 Mw Swad Small Hep In Favour Of M/S Micro Hep New Road In-Principle Hamirpur 76 Const. Of 1.5 Mw Surah Small Hep In Favour Of M/S. Micro Hydro Electric In-Principle Power Generation Ltd., 77 Const.Of 3.5 Mw Chachiot Hep In Favour Of M/S Shakti Hydro Electric Company In-Principle Pvt. Ltd., Jharkhand 78 Diversion Of 4.587 Ha Of Forest Land For Establishment Of Sadaniphal Hydro- In-Principle Electric Project By Bihar State Electricity Board. Karnataka 79 Diversion Of 4.20 Ha. Of Forest Land In Kageneri & Kanchanakumari Rf In Approved Sy.No.1 & 16 Of Yadakumari (V), Sakaleshpura (T) For Establishment Of 19 Mw Yadakumari Mini Hydel Project In Favour Of M/S Maruthi Power-Gen (India) Pvt. Ltd., B’lore. 80 Diversion Of 4.18 Ha. Of Forest Land In Kageneri & Kanchanakumari Rf In Approved Sy.No.1 & 16 Of Yadakumari (V), Sakaleshpura (T) For Establishment Of 18.90 Mw Hongadahalla Mini Hydel Project In Favour Of M/S Maruthi Power-Gen (India) Pvt. Ltd. 81 Diversion Of 2.56 Ha. Of Deemed Forest Land For Development Of 15 Mw Mini Approved Hydel Scheme In Sy.No.66 Of Jarkala Village, Karkala Taluk Across Yennehole Stream In Udupi District In Favour Of M/S Gvp Infra Projects Private Limited, Bangalore. Kerala 82 Diversion Of Fl For Mankulam Hep (40 Mw), Malayattoor Rf, Munnar Forest Approved Division In F/O Kseb. 83 Diversion Of 6.4795 Ha. Of Fl For The Implementation Of Perunthenaruvi Small Approved Hep By Kseb, Pathanamthitta Distt.

Manipur 84 Diversion Of 223.50 Ha Of Forest Land For Loktak Downstream Hydro-Electric In-Principle Project. Punjab 85 Setting Up A Mini Hydel Project On Madhopur Beas Link Canal Ubdc System Approved From R.D. 19454 To 20182 L/S Vill. Gandlan Lahrri 86 Setting Up Of Mini Hydel Project On Madhopur Beas Link Canal Ubdc System Approved From R.D. Kanda At 13960 To 14688 L/S, Vill. Kale Chak And Khanpur 87 Micro Project Ralla On Kotla Branch Canal At R.D. 268000-269000 R/S Approved 88 Construction Of Hep Project On Bathinda Branch Canal Rd-389-91, L/S At In-Principle Village Bibwala

89 Bhikha Bhai Sagwada Irrigation Approved Sikkim 90 Proposal For Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Rongni Chhu Hep On Approved River Rongni Chhu 91 Proposal For Diversion Of 5.431 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 66 Mw Approved Rangit-Ii Hydro Electric Project In West District Of Sikkim Hydro Electric Ventures Limited (Revised Proposal). 92 Construction Of 97 Mw Tashiding Hydroelectric Project By M/S Shiga Pvt. Ltd. Approved Uttar Pradesh 93 400 Kv Dc Kanpur-Bullabhgarh Paresun Line & 21 Tree Failing In Etwa Approved Uttarakhand 94 Singoli Bhatwarihydel Project Approved 95 Kolinda Talla Tok Gaunichira Hydel Project In Thalisain Approved 96 Myudar Ganga Mini Hydel Project Approved 97 Sobla -I Mini Hydel Project Approved 98 Kaldigad Mini Hydel Project Approved 99 Lagrasu Mini Hydle Electrical Project 3 Mw (7.0249 Ha.) Approved 100 Asi Ganga Mini Hydel Project(Phase-I) Approved 101 2x2250 Kw Assiganga Mini Hydel Project Approved 102 4mw Khiro Ganga Hydro Electric Project(0.90 Ha.) Approved 103 Karmi Iii Mini Hydel Scheme (0.1596) Approved 104 Tarula Micro Hydel Scheme (0.0483) Approved 105 Hanol Tyuni Micro Hydel Project In-Principle 106 Diversion Of 80.507 Ha. Of Forest Land For Construction Of 444 Mw In-Principle Vishmugarh-Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project In Favour Of Tehri Hydro Development Corp. (Thdc). 107 Construction Of Kotlibhel Stage-I, Hydro Electric Power Project (195mw) In In-Principle

River Bhagirathi Favouring Nhpc Ltd 108 Diversion Of 60.513 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of Alaknanda Hydro- In-Principle Electric Project In Favour Of Gmr Energy Ltd.

State-Wise Details Of Proposals Seeking Forest Clearance To Wind Power Projects Cleared During The Last Three Years

Sr.No. State and Name of Proposal Remarks Andhra Pradesh 1 Diversion Of 16.84 Ha. Of Forest Land In C.S.No.208, 210 & 211 Of Approved Devagudipadu Rf Of Dhone Range For Establishment Of 33.00 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Sarjan Realities Ltd. 2 Diversion Of Forest Land In Comp. No. 552 To 566 Ellutla Rf Of Anantapur In-Principle Range Of Anantapur Forest Division For Establishing Of 48 Mw Wind Power Project 3 Establishment Of Wind Power Project In Gandikota North, Gandikota South & In-Principle Yamavaram Reserve Forests Of Proddatur Division In Favour Of Suzlon Infrastrucuture Limited Gujarat 4 Diversion Of 68.82 Ha. Of Reserved Forest Land For Construction Of Wind Power Approved Project In Villages 54.40 Mw- Jamvadi, Chattar, Haripar Mevasa, Dhun Dhoraji, Bodi, Moti Vavdi Ta. Narmana, Ta. Jam Jodhpur M/S Vish Wind Infrastructure Limited 5 Diversion Of 120.7496 Ha Reseved Forest Land For Construction Of Wind Power Approved Project In Favour Of Enercon (India) Ltd. In District Jamnagar, Gujarat 6 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Wind Power Project In Favour Of In-Principle Suzlan Energy Limited 7 Construction Of Wind Power Project, Village- Ddaraka In Favour Of Suzlon In-Principle Gujatat Wind Park Ltd Karnataka 8 Diversion Of 72.527 Ha Of Forest Land In Tuppadahalli State Forest Of Approved Bhadrvathi Forest Division For Establishing 57.75 Mw Wind Power Project Of M/S Chitradurga Wind Power Private Limited 9 Diversion Of Forest Land In Hyrada Reserve Forest Of Davangere Forest Division Approved For Establishing 39.60 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Chitradurga Wind Power Private Limited 10 Development Of 27 Mw Wind Power Project In Gangavana Sara State Forest, Approved Shikaripura Taluk, Sagar Division In Favour Of M/S. Sarjan Realities Limited 11 Diversion Of Forest Land For Setting Up Of Wind Power Project In Ramadurga Approved And Soundatti Taluk In Favour Of M/S Enercon (India) Limited 12 Diversion Of Forest Land For Establishment Of 112 Mw Wind Power Project In Approved Belgaum And Bailahongal Taluk In Favour Of M/S Enercon (India) Ltd. 13 Diversion Of 39.70 Ha. Of Forest Land In Doni Village, Mundargi Taluk, Gadag Approved Division/District For Establishment Of Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Bhoruka Power Corporation Limited, Bangalore. 14 26.40 Mw Wind Power Project In Torangallu And Chikkanthapur Reserve Forest In-Principle In Favour Of Suzlon Energy Limited 15 Diversion Of 38.43 Ha. Of Forest Land In Mincheri Rf, Bellary Range Of Bellary In-Principle Forest Division/District For Establishment Of 27 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Suzlon Infrastructure Limited, Bangalore. 16 Diversion Of 12.641 Ha. Of Forest Land In Herada Rf, Harapanahalli Range Of In-Principle Davangere Forest Divn. For Establishment Of 10.50 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Sarjan Realities Ltd., Bangalore. 17 Diversion Of 24.902 Ha. Of Forest Land For Establishment Of Wind Power In-Principle Project In Byadagi Range Of Haveri Division/District By M/S Sarjan Realities Limited, Bangalore. 18 Diversion Of 24.028 Ha. Of Forest Land In Herada Rf, Hadagali Range Of Bellary In-Principle Forest Divn. For Establishment Of 25.20 Mw Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Sarjan Realities Ltd., Bangalore. Madhya Pradesh 19 Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of Wind Power Project In Shajapur Approved Forest Division (Partial Area Of Compartment No. P14 To P18) And Reserve Forest In Favour Of M/S Enercon India Limited 20 Diversion Of Forest Land For Development Of Eco-Friendly Wind Farm Project In-Principle In Palsud And Pansemal Block Of Sendhwa Division In Favour Of Suzlon Infrastructure Limited Maharashtra 21 Wind Power Project Envisages The Installation Of 56 Wind Turbines Of 1.25 Mw Approved Generating Capacity Each And 50 Wind Turbine Of 0.60 Mw Generating Capacity Each. The Project Is Prodution Of 100 Mw Electricity (Van-Kusawade Windy Site - Application Ii) 22 Diversion Of Forest Land For Installation Of Wind Power Project (Chakla) In Approved Favour Of M/S Suzlon Energy Limited 23 Installation Of Wind Power Project In F/O Suzlon Energy Ltd Approved 24 Diversion Of Forest Land For Development Of Chavaneshwar Wind Power Project Approved 25 Diversion Of Forest Land For Andhra Lake Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Approved Enercon India Ltd.

26 Installation Of Wind Power Project In Favour Of M/S Suzlon Energy Ltd Approved

ANNEXURE -III Thermal Power Projects Rejected in Last Three Years

S.No. Project Details Date of EC Issued Date of Cancellation 1 3x150 MW Coal based Thermal Power Plant at village 03/06/2009 16/04/2010 Hanhon, in Kanwar Taluk District: Uttara Kannada, Karnataka Company: M/s Ind-Bharat Power (Karwar)Ltd.

Hydro-power project Rejected/withdrawn during the last 3 years

Project Details Reasons S.No State Rejected on Rejected Project Name: Kotlibhel Stage 1B (320 NEAA has quashed the MW) environmental clearance dated District: Pauri & Tehri Garhwal 14.8.2007, vide their order 1 Uttarakhand Company: M/s NHPC Ltd. 22.11.2010 dated 15.9.2010. therefore, Ministry withdraws the EC issued to Kotlibhel HEP Stage - 1B

Details of Hydel Power Projects Rejected last three years

Sr.No. State and Name of Proposal Remarks Uttrakhand Diversion Of 217.522 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 261 Mw Rupsiabagar- 1 Khasiyabara Hydro-Electric Project In Favour Of Ntpc Ltd. Rejected on 07/12/2011

Kothli Bhel Hydro Electric Power Project (Stage Ii, 530 Mw) In Favour Of Nhpc 2 Rejected on 5.07.2011

Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of 320 Mw Kotlibhel Hydro Electric 3 Project Stage-Ib Devprayag In Favour Of National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Rejected on 07.07.2011 Limited (Nhpc)

PROJECT CONSTRUCTION OF RING ROAD AROUND GIR FORESTS 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1755

SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA

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

(a) whether the Central Government has received any proposal for construction of ring road around Gir forests in Gujarat; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) 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)& (c) 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 has 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. Accordingly the Ministry has not released any grant to the Government of Gujarat for construction of Ring Road and no further action is pending with the Ministry of Environment and Forests in this regard.

IMPACT OF YAMUNA RIVER'S TOXINS 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1756

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) Whether it is a fact that the Yamuna river’s poison leave metro hot and gasping and the river’s toxins are damaging cooling system of Delhi Metro Railway; and (b) If so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) No reference has been received from the M/s Delhi Metro Rail Corporation regarding damage to cooling systems of the Delhi Metro due to toxins emanating from the river Yamuna.

INDIAN WILDLIFE BUSINESS COUNCIL 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1757

SHRI A. ELAVARASAN

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

(a) whether the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) and the World Bank have signed an MoU to establish the Indian Wildlife Business Council to promote tiger and biodiversity conservation for sustainable development; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the initiative comes against the backdrop of dwindling tiger population as there are just about 3000 tigers in the wild now; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) whether bringing private sector into this effort will infuse new ideas and new resources will serve as a powerful instrument of change?

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

(a) to (e) It is learnt that the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) and the Global Tiger Initiative have signed a MOU to establish the Indian Wildlife Business Council to promote tiger and biodiversity conservation for sustainable development. Details are not available as the Government of India is not a signatory of the said MOU.

CONSERVATION OF HOUSE SPARROWS 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1758

SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA

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

(d) whether Government is aware of the fact that population of House Sparrows (passer domesticus) is fast dwindling, disappearing and facing extinction globally including India since last few years; (e) whether any effort have been made to list this bird in the schedule of the Wildlife Protection Act,1972; and (f) the details of the action taken by Government to protect House Sparrow and to increase its population?

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

(a) Studies carried out by Research Organizations and NGO's including Centre for Ornithology, and Bombay Natural History Society, indicate a decline in population of house sparrows in India.

(b) No, Sir.

(c)The Ministry of Environment and Forests provides financial assistance for conservation of wildlife including house sparrows, both within as well as outside Protected Areas, under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats'.

A research project has also been assigned to Bombay Natural History Society during 2009 for 'Investigation of causes of house sparrow population decline in urban and sub-urban habitats of India' with a financial grant of Rs. 4.3 lakhs.

CATEGORIZATION OF COALFIELDS AS INVIOLATE AREAS 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1759

SHRI T.

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

(a) whether it is a fact that her Ministry has categorized some of the coalfields as inviolate areas; (b) if so, the details of coalfields categorized as inviolate areas; (c) what exactly the meaning of ‘inviolate areas’; (d) whether any recommendations to this effect have been made by B.K. Chaturvedi Committee; (e) if so, the details thereof; (f) whether any consultations have been held with Coal Ministry before categorization; (g) if so, the details thereof; and (h) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) No, sir.

(b)In view of reply to part (a) above, reply to part (b) does not arise.

(c) to (e) The B.K. Chaturvedi Committee recommended that coal bearing blocks should normally be taken for mining and clearances given for it except where there is a strong case for rejection due to extremely dense forests and other ecological and environment consideration of serious nature.

The Group of Ministers (GoM) constituted to consider the environmental and developmental issues relating to coal mining and other development projects in its fifth meeting held on 20th September, 2011 after examination of the said recommendation, recognized the importance of dense forests and suggested that identified pristine forest areas where any mining activity would lead to irreversible damage to the forests should be barred from any kind of non- forest activity. The GoM further recommended that all such forests which can never be regenerated to the desired quality should be protected and suggested that a committee comprising of experts in the field can be constituted to identify such forests.

A committee constituted under Chairmanship of the Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forests has formulated parameters for identification of such areas.

(f) to (h) In view of reply to part (a) above, reply to parts (f) to (h) does not arise.

POLLUTION OF RIVER BHARALU IN ASSAM 28th August, 2012

RSQ 1760

SHRI KUMAR DEEPK DAS

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state

(a) the details of steps taken to prevent pollution of the river Bharalu in the Guwahati city; (b) whether Government is aware of the fact that solid waste and sewage that is being dumped into river Bharalu have created intoxious pollution which is one of the reasons for flooding in the low lying areas of Guwahati; (c) if so, whether the steps have been taken by the State Pollution Control Board in Assam in this regard; and (d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reason therefor?

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

(a) & (b) 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 downstream of Guwahati. The Pollution Control Board of Assam has studied the pollution aspects of river Bharalu and prepared an Action Plan to combat pollution in this river, including solid waste management.

(c) & (d) The State Government of Assam had submitted project proposal for pollution abatement works for Bharalu River at an estimated cost of Rs. 223.00 crore to the National River Conservation Directorate. The proposal was examined and returned to the Government of Assam as the proposal did not conform to the Guidelines.

MINERAL ORE DUMPS IN GOA 4th September, 2012

RSQ *321

SHRI SHANTARAM NAIK

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

(a) whether the Ministry has issued any orders/instructions as regards mineral ore dumps stacked near mines in Goa; (b) the brief contents of the order/instructions; (c) whether it is a fact that the State Government of Goa has taken a stand that the Ministry has no powers to issue such orders/instructions; and ; (d) if so, the reaction of the Ministry to the State Government’s stand which is amply evident from the reports in the local dailies?

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.321 REGARDING MINERAL ORE DUMPS IN GOA ASKED BY SHRI SHANTARAM NAIK DUE FOR ANSWER ON 04.09.2012

(a) & (b): It came to the notice of the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) that mining from low grade ore / rejects dumps is being carried out in the State of Goa without obtaining requisite prior environment clearance. The environment clearance granted by MoEF, under the provisions of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 is based on the scope of work as envisaged at the time of obtaining environment clearance. The environment clearance granted by MoEF to the mining projects in the State of Goa did not include dump mining within their scope. As such, any change in scope of project with respect to the scope for which environment clearance was obtained amounts to the violation of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. MoEF has asked the State Government to take necessary action to stop forthwith all such mining activities and initiate action under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Rules framed thereunder against all those projects involved in dump mining without requisite prior environment clearance.

(c) & (d) The State Government has responded stating inter alia that since 9.3.2012 till date, no dump mining or illegal mining has been allowed in the State. The State Government has also stated that, though they are yet to form their opinion, as per the legal opinions available with them quantity of ore sold, proposed to be sold, from the existing dumps / rejection stacks / overburden does not require fresh permission / clearance from MoEF and that no environment clearance is required while removing the mineral ore dumps, whether by the State Government or by the mining lessee. The full details of these legal opinions, including the context in which they were sought, have not been shared by the State Government with MoEF.

MoEF has issued orders to undertake detail inspection by the officials of Regional Office of the Ministry at Bangalore and Zonal Office of the Central Pollution Control Board at Bangalore to ascertain whether dump mining activity is taking place in the State of Goa.

MAPPING AND ASSESSMENT OF THE FOREST COVER 4th September, 2012

RSQ *329

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 Forest Survey of India, does the mapping and assessment of the country’s forest cover biennially; (b) (b) if so, the details of the mapping and assessment done during the last three assessment years; and (c) to what extent the forest cover in the country has increased over a period of ten years?

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 part (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 329 by Dr. K.V.P. Ramachandra Rao due for reply on 04.09.2012

(a) Yes, Sir. The Forest Survey of India has been regularly assessing the forest cover of the country biennially since 1987.

(b) The details of forest cover mapping of the last three cycles carried out by Forest Survey of India and published in India State of Forest Reports (ISFR) are as follows:

Year of Report Data period Forest Cover (sq. km) Change in forest Very Dense Moderately Open Forest Total Forest cover(sq. km) Forest Dense Forest ISFR-2011 2008-09 83,471 3,20,736 2,87,820 6,92,027 -367 ISFR-2009 2006-07 83,428 3,20,238 2,88,728 6,92,394

Revised ISFR-2009 2006-07 83,510 3,19,012 2,88,377 6,90,899 +728 ISFR-2005 2004-05 83,472 3,19,948 2,86,751 6,90,171 Revised

As per the 2011 assessment, the net loss of forest cover is 367 sq. km as compared to 2009 assessment (revised after incorporating the interpretational changes). Similarly, as per the 2009 assessment there was a net gain of 728 sq. km in forest cover as compared to 2005 assessment (revised after adjusting for the interpretational changes).

(c) As per India State of Forest Reports (ISFR), the forest cover of the country over a period of ten years (i.e. from 2001 to 2011) has increased by 16,489 sq. km.

HIGH LEVEL OF AIR QUALITY INDEX 4th September, 2012

RSQ *333

SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE

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

(a) the number and the names of the cities in the country where Air Quality Index levels over 201 and 301 have been reported; (b) the reasons for such high levels of Air Quality Index; and (c) the preventive measures being taken by Government to reduce the level of air pollution?

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

(c) 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. 333 FOR ANSWER ON TUESDAY, THE 4TH SEPTEMBER, 2012 REGARDING HIGH LEVEL OF AIR QUALITY INDEX RAISED BY SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE

(a) to (c) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) had sponsored a project on Air Quality Index (AQI) to the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur. The Institute had completed the project. However, CPCB has not accepted the Air Quality Index in view of validation of data and parameters to be covered for developing the index. The steps taken by the Government to improve the ambient air quality inter alia, includes:

i. A comprehensive Policy for Abatement of Pollution that lays stress on both the control and preventive aspects of pollution has been formulated; ii. City specific action plans have also been prepared and are at various stages of implementation; iii. Emission standards for on-road vehicles and mass emission standards for new vehicles have been notified under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and are enforced by Transport Departments of the State Governments. iv. Unleaded petrol is supplied in the entire country from 1.2.2000. Bharat stage-IV emission norms have been introduced in 13 mega cities for new 4-wheelers in 2010. Bharat stage III norms have been introduced for two, three wheelers and diesel driven agricultural tractors from April 1, 2010 throughout the country. v. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is supplied for automobiles through a number of retail outlets in Delhi and Mumbai to cater to the CNG vehicles. vi. Emission standards for industries have been notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to check pollution.

REVIVAL OF PLANET PROTECTION FUND 4th September, 2012

RSQ *340

SHRI

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

(a) whether Government is aware of the proposal for a Planet Protection Fund put forward by the former , Shri at the 10th Non- Aligned Summit in Belgrade in September,1989; (b) if so, the details of the proposal; and (c) whether the revival of that proposal might not break the deadlock in the international climate change negotiations?

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 Part (a) to (c) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 340 by Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar regarding “Revival of Planet Protection Fund”

(a) to (c): In his speech delivered at the 10th Summit of the Non Aligned countries held in Belgrade on September 5, 1989, the former Prime Minister, Shri Rajiv Gandhi, had proposed the establishment of a Planet Protection Fund (PPF) under the aegis of the UN to be used to protect environment through the use of conservation-compatible technologies in critical areas. This Fund was proposed to be set up through global efforts to ensure the development of and access to environment friendly technologies by the international community. It was proposed that all constituent members of the Fund contribute a fixed percentage of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the annual contribution to the corpus of the Fund would be around $18 million.

Following the decision taken by the Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Cancun 2010, Green Climate Fund (GCF) has been set up to provide and mobilize funds from various public and private sources. The Fund will raise resources and make them available to developing countries for adaptation and mitigation actions in accordance with the provisions of the UNFCCC.

BURDEN ON AIRLINES DUE TO EU ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2503

SHRI VIJAY JAWAHARLAL DARDA

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

(a) whether submission of Carbon emission data, under the Emission Trading Scheme, with the European Union (EU) cost the country's domestic airlines billions of dollars as European Union (EU) airspace emission fee since January, 2012; (b) if so, the steps Government has initiated to save our airlines from this avoidable huge burden of levy on account of EU environmental constraints; (c) whether there are any international protocols on this subject; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) Following inclusion by European Union (EU) of emissions from international civil aviations in their Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) with effect from 1.1.2012, India’s airlines flying into Europe will need to buy emissions allowance from the EU authorities. The EU measure may result in additional cost to the domestic airlines in India if the airlines are made to comply with the emission standards prescribed by EU authorities for their airlines.

(b) India has categorically opposed the EU measure as the same is unilateral and violates the principles of Common But Differentiated Responsibility (CBDR) of countries under the principles of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) for protecting the climate. India has conveyed its opposition to the EU through appropriate channels and emphasised that EU proposal to go ahead with the levy will affect the delicate balance in international negotiations on climate change achieved in Durban. India is also a party to the joint declaration issued by a group of countries that have expressed their opposition to the EU measure.

(c) & (d) There are no such international protocols on this subject.

SULPHUR CONTENT IN EMISSION DUE TO DIESEL 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2504

SHRI PRAKASH JAVADEKAR

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

(a) the average sulphur content in emissions due to diesel in India; (b) whether it is a fact that it is exceedingly high in India as compared to global parameters; (c) if so, the reasons therefor; and (d) the steps Government has taken or intends to take to bring it down to global (e) norms?

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

(a) to (d) At present, the sulphur content in BS-IV diesel is 50ppm, while the content of sulphur in BS-III diesel is 350 ppm. The BS-IV emission norms for new four- wheelers along with the commensurate fuel quality have been implemented in 13 mega cities viz. Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Surat, Pune, Bangalore, Kanpur, Agra, Sholapur and Lucknow from 2010. The B.S-III emission norms along with its commensurate fuel quality have been implemented all over the country since 2010. India has been more or less following European Union in terms of vehicular emission norms and the commensurate fuel quality, though with a time gap. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has formulated an ‘Expert Committee’ to review the Auto Fuel Policy beyond 2010.

REPORT ON DEMARCATION OF FOREST 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2505

SHRI D. RAJA

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

(a) whether the seven-member panel set up by the Ministry to suggest demarcation of forest to classify them as inviolate patches based on a set of norms has submitted its report; and (b) if so, the details of the recommendations made and further action being taken thereon?

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

(a) & (b) To formulate objective parameters for identification of pristine forest areas where any mining activity would lead to irreversible damage, and such other forest areas which needs to be conserved and protected to meet the larger objective of the long term conservation of forest and wildlife resources in the country, the Ministry of Environment and Forests constituted a committee under the Chairmanship of the Secretary, Environment and Forests.

The committee in its report recommended that classification of a patch of forest as inviolate may be based on six parameters namely; the forest cover, forest type, biological richness, wildlife value, landscape integrity and hydrological value.

ASSESSMENT OF NAPCC 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2506

SHRI RAJIV PRATAP RUDY

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

(a) whether Government has done any comprehensive assessment of the achievements made under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC); (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, whether Government has any plan to do an assessment of NAPCC; (d) whether the NAPCC proposal for a nationwide 5 per cent Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS), starting from FY 2009-10, is being achieved; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) to (c): Prime Minister’s Office regularly reviews the progress under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), based on the information provided by each concerned nodal Ministry.

(d) & (e): As per Central Electricity Authority’s All India Electricity Statistics, General Review 2011, the share of electricity from renewable energy sources (including small hydropower upto 25 MW capacity) in 2009-10 was 4.6% of the total electricity generation.

TRAINED STAFF FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2507

SHRIMATI KANIMOZHI

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

(a) the number of trained staff those have been employed to maintain parks, sanctuaries and forests which falls under the control of the Ministry, State-wise; (b) the number of posts of trained staff lying vacant and the reasons therefor; (c) whether sufficient facilities such as clothing, equipment are being provided to these staff; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a)to (d) All the national parks, sanctuaries, reserved forests, protected forests, village forests, and notified forests of any other description in the country have been notified by the Government of concerned State/Union Territory. The management and control of these areas is with the concerned State/Union Territory Government. There is no such area which falls under the control of the Ministry.

The management of such forest areas, including the filling up of vacant posts and issues relating to welfare of the staff working in these forest areas, is looked after by the concerned State/Union Territory Government, the details of which are not collated in the Ministry.

INSTALLATION OF MOBILE TOWERS IN FOREST AREA 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2508

SHRIMATI KANIMOZHI

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

(a) whether Government has taken any steps to put a check on the installation of mobile phone towers in forests and ecologically sensitive areas; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether any such guidelines have aslo been introduced to check installation of towers in populous urban areas; and (d) 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 had constituted an ‘Expert (c) &(d) 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 has been submitted to the Ministry of environment and Forests. The committee reviewed the available scientific information and accordingly in the report indicates that the Electro-Magnetic Radiations (EMR) interfere with the biological systems.

The Ministry of Environment and Forests has issued an advisory containing the actions to be undertaken by various agencies involved in providing, regulating and dealing in any other manner with the EMR based services. The Advisory has been prepared by the Ministry with the objective to avoid and mitigate the impacts of EMR on the life forms and has been communicated to all the State/Union Territories Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Planning Commission and Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

COMPLIANCE OF EMISSION NORMS BY CEMENT FACTORIES 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2509

DR. V. MAITREYAN

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has reported that out of the 196 large cement plants and 365 mini cement plants in the country, 17 large plants and 7 mini plants are not complying with the emission standards in respect of particulate matter; (b) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by Government to check the said pollution and ensure that these factories comply with the emission standards; and (c) the remedial steps taken by Government to control spreading pollution by emitting calcium and other particles, State/Union Territory-wise?

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

(a) to (c) According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), there are 181 large cement plants and 365 mini-cement plants in the country. Out of 181 large cement plants, 19 large cement plants are not complying with the prescribed emission standards and out of 365 mini-cement plants, 9 mini-cement plants are also not complying with the prescribed emission standards. The State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) are enforcing the compliance of emission standards in respect of particulate matter in the cement industry under the provisions of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. CPCB conducts random inspections of 17 highly polluting industries including cement plants to verify the compliance of emission standards under the Environmental Surveillance Squad (ESS) Programme.

The steps taken by Government to control pollution from the cement plants include the following:

(i) CPCB had issued directions under Section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to 6 large non- complying cement plants and under Section 18 (1) (b) of Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 to concerned SPCBs for directing the 7 large non complying cement plants to upgrade the pollution control measures to meet the stipulated standards in a time bound manner. (ii) SPCBs had issued directions under Section 31 (A) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 to 6 non-complying large cement plants to upgrade the pollution control system. (iii) CPCB had asked SPCBs to direct 3 non-complying large cement plants to upgrade the pollution control measures.

The State-wise compliance status of large and mini cement plants is given in the annexure. Annexure Compliance Status in respect of Large Cement Plants

S. State No. of Plants Complying No. of Plants not Total No. with the emission Complying with the no. of standards emission standards Cem Govt. P Govt. P ent Undertak vt Undertak vt Plant ing . ing . s 1. Andhra 1 2 -- 2 29 Pradesh 6 2. Assam -- 1 1 -- 2 3. Bihar -- 1 -- -- 1 4. Chhattisg -- 6 -- 2 8 arh 5. Gujarat -- 1 -- 2 14 2 6. Haryana -- 3 -- -- 3 7. H.P. 1 6 -- -- 7 8. J&K 1 1 -- -- 2 9. Jharkhan -- 4 -- -- 4 d 10. Karnatak -- 1 -- -- 12 a 2 11. Kerala 1 -- 1 -- 2 12. Maharash -- 9 -- 1 10 tra 13. M.P -- 5 -- 7 12 14. Meghalay 1 3 -- -- 4 a 15. Orissa -- 4 -- -- 4 16. Punjab -- 3 -- -- 3 17. Rajasthan -- 2 -- 2 22 0 18. Tamilnad 2 1 -- 1 20 u 7 19. Uttarakha -- 3 -- -- 3 nd 20. Uttar -- 1 -- -- 11 Pradesh 1 21. West -- 8 -- -- 8 Bengal Tot 7 155 2 17 1 al 8 1

Compliance Status in respect of Mini Cement Plants

S. No. State No. of non-complying mini cement plants 1. Kerala 1 2. M.P. 2 3. West Bengal 1 4. Orissa 1 5. Assam 1 6. Meghalaya 1 7. Rajasthan 2 Total 9

CHECKING OF VEHICULAR POLLUTION 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2510

DR. V. MAITREYAN

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

(a) whether Government has any pollution monitoring system to curb vehicular pollution in the major Metro cities of various States of the country including Chennai; (b) if so, the details thereof, Metro city-wise; (c) whether different standards/yardsticks are being used for major Metro cities; (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) The Government has notified emission standards for on-road vehicles and mass emission standards for new vehicles under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The same are enforced by Transport Departments of the State Governments. Unleaded petrol is supplied in the entire country from 1.2.2000. Bharat stage-IV emission norms have been introduced in 13 mega cities, including Chennai, for new 4-wheelers from October, 2010. Bharat stage III norms have been introduced for two, three wheelers and diesel driven agricultural tractors from April 1, 2010 throughout the country. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is supplied for automobiles through a number of retail outlets in Delhi and Mumbai to cater to the CNG vehicles.

The State Governments have put in place the pollution monitoring systems to check vehicular pollution.The pollution under control (PUC) norm is applicable throughout the country including Chennai.

ENCROACHMENT OF FORESTS LAND FOR ILLEGAL GRAZING 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2511

SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA

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

(a) the area of land in the National Parks situated in Gujarat and Maharashtra which has been encroached for illegal grazing as on November, 2011; (b) for how long, the illegal encroachment of forest land is taking place for illegal grazing; (c) the details of action Government has taken against the offenders/ parties; and (d) when the land encroached for illegal grazing will be freed?

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

(a) to (d) The protection and management of national parks and sanctuaries in the states, including Gujarat and Maharashtra, is looked after by the concerned State Governments. The details of encroachments existing or occurring in such areas, as well as action taken or proposed to be taken, including eviction thereof from the forest land, against the offenders in such cases are not collated in the Ministry.

EXPORT OF EXOTIC BIRDS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2512

SHRI MANSUKH L. MANDAVIYA:

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

(a) whether export of exotic birds are permitted from India; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; (c) the number of parties issued license so far in this regard; and (d) the number of exotic birds exported during the last three years ending November, 2011?

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

(a) to (d) Several species of exotic birds are bred in captivity in India for commercial trade. As per the EXIM policy of India, the export of live exotic birds is prohibited except for Albino budgerigars, Budgerigars, Bengali finches, White finches, Zebra finches and Jawa sparrow. The Albino budgerigars, Budgerigars, Bengali finches, White finches and Zebra finches are free to export as per the provisions of EXIM policy subject only to pre-shipment inspection. The export of Jawa sparrow is restricted and it is permitted under license, which is issued after certification from the Chief Wildlife Warden of the concerned State/Union Territory where the exotic birds have been procured to the effect that the birds to be exported are from Captive Bred Stock. Exports, if allowed, are subject to pre-shipment inspection and provisions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

As per the information available with the Ministry, the details of export of exotic birds during the last three years, and during the current year are as follows:

S. No. Species Birds exported during the year (Number) No export of 2009 2010 2011 2012 1. Budgerigar 0 18865 124210 39160 exotic birds 2. Zebra finch 0 3700 4190 4125 has been reported during the month of December 2011. License for export of exotic birds has not been issued to any party during last three years since no Jawa sparrow have been exported, and license is not required for export of other species.

CORE AREAS IN TIGER RESERVES 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2513

DR. CHANDAN MITRA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that core area has not been notified so far in the 10 tiger reserves across the country; (b) if so, the reasons for the delay; and (c) the steps taken by Government to ban all tourism activities in the core areas of tiger reserves, parks and sanctuaries across the country in order to save tigers from extinction?

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

(a) No Sir.

(b) Question does not arise.

(c)The Hon’ble Supreme Court, in the Special Leave to Appeal (Civil) No. 21339/2011 - Ajay Dubey versus National Tiger Conservation Authority & others, vide its interim order dated 29th July, 2012, has directed to formulate a comprehensive set of guidelines while inviting inputs from stakeholders and experts.

LOSS OF ANIMAL LIVES DUE TO FLOODS IN ASSAM 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2514

SHRIMATI JAYA BACHCHAN:

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

(a) whether it is a fact that due to heavy flood in Assam a number of wild animals entered the cities and villages to save their lives but were killed by vehicles and the people there; and (b) the steps being taken by Government to save the wildlife in the State?

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

(a) As per the information received from the Government of Assam, there are no reports of wild animals entering into cities and villages during the floods and being killed by the people in Assam. Few animals straying in the nearby villages were driven back to the wild by the forest staff with the help of villagers. However, 36 number of wild animals (hog deer-24, swamp deer-2, sambar-1, wild boar-6, python-2 and fox-1) unfortunately died in road accidents during the recent flood in Assam.

(b) The protection and management of wildlife in the Assam is looked after by the State Government. Following steps have been taken by the Government of Assam to save wildlife in the state

(1) Local youths, communities and Non-Governmental Organizations have been involved in saving wildlife.

(2) Strength of field staff has been augmented by engaging Assam Forest Protection Force and armed home guards in the protected areas.

(3) Infrastructure has been strengthened by constructing large number of anti-poaching camps and patrolling paths in the protected areas.

(4) Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 has been amended in Assam enhancing the punishment to the poachers up to a maximum of life imprisonment. The wildlife offences have been made cognizable and non-bailable.

(5) Forest officers at all levels have been granted power to use fire arms for protection of forest and wildlife under the provisions of . They have also been granted immunity from prosecution without prior sanction of the Government.

(6) Education and awareness programmes have been undertaken for protection of wild animals.

(7) Round the clock patrolling and close monitoring has been ensured in the protected areas.

(8) Sufficient number of wireless sets, arms and ammunition, GPS sets and vehicles have been made available to the staff engaged in wildlife protection.

Central Government provides financial assistance to State Governments including the Government of Assam under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats”, “Project Elephant” and “Project Tiger” for protection and management of wildlife and its habitats in the states.

USE OF FUEL WOOD 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2515

SHRI PANKAJ BORA:

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

(a) the total forest areas in the country, State-wise; (b) whether it is a fact that forests in the country are one of the biggest source of energy markets; (c) whether Government is aware that every year the country uses between 100 to 300 million tons of fuel wood and the turnover in this sector is around $ 16.54 billion; (d) whether it is a fact that around 11million head-loaders are involved in carrying chopped wood to villages and towns; and (e) if so, whether Government is prepared to recognise this sector as legal trade to provide some amenities to them?

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

(a) The State wise forest cover of the country as per India State of Forest Report -2011 is given in the Annexure I.

(b) Yes, Sir. It is a fact that forests in the country are one of the biggest source of energy, particularly in the rural areas.

(c) As per India State of Forest Report – 2011, the estimated annual fuel wood consumption in the country is 216.421million tons. As per the National Account Statistics, 2012 published by the Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation, Government of India the country’s production of fuel wood at current prices for the year 2010-11 is Rs. 56,452 crores.

(d) & (e) It is a fact that villagers collect fallen fuel wood from nearby forest which is primarily for their bonafide use and not for legal trade. However, information with regard to such persons is not maintained in the Ministry.

Annexure- 1 referred to in reply to part (a) of the RajyaSabhaUnstarred Question No. 2515 due for answer on 04-09-2012 regarding ‘Use of fuel wood’

Forest cover in States/UTs in India as per India State of Forest Report, 2011 (area in sq km) State/UT Geog. Forest Cover in 2011 Area Very Dense Mod. Dense Open Total Forest Forest Forest Andhra Pradesh 275069 850 26242 19297 46389 Arunachal Pradesh 83743 20868 31519 15023 67410 Assam 78438 1444 11404 14825 27673 Bihar 94163 231 3280 3334 6845 Chhattisgarh 135191 4163 34911 16600 55674 Delhi 1483 7 49 120 176 Goa 3702 543 585 1091 2219 Gujarat 196022 376 5231 9012 14619 Haryana 44212 27 457 1124 1608 Himachal Pradesh 55673 3224 6381 5074 14679 Jammu & Kashmir 222236 4140 8760 9639 22539 Jharkhand 79714 2590 9917 10470 22977 Karnataka 191791 1777 20179 14238 36194 Kerala 38863 1442 9394 6464 17300 Madhya Pradesh 308245 6640 34986 36074 77700 Maharashtra 307713 8736 20815 21095 50646 Manipur 22327 730 6151 10209 17090 Meghalaya 22429 433 9775 7067 17275 Mizoram 21081 134 6086 12897 19117 Nagaland 16579 1293 4931 7094 13318 Orissa 155707 7060 21366 20477 48903 Punjab 50362 0 736 1028 1764 Rajasthan 342239 72 4448 11567 16087 Sikkim 7096 500 2161 698 3359 Tamil Nadu 130058 2948 10321 10356 23625 Tripura 10486 109 4686 3182 7977 Uttar Pradesh 240928 1626 4559 8153 14338 Uttarakhand 53483 4762 14167 5567 24496

West Bengal 88752 2984 4646 5365 12995 A&N Islands 8249 3761 2416 547 6724 Chandigarh 114 1 10 6 17 Dadra & Nagar Haveli 491 0 114 97 211 Daman & Diu 112 0 0.62 5.53 6 Lakshadweep 32 0 17.18 9.88 27 Puducherry 480 0 35.37 14.69 50 Grand Total 3287263 83471 320736 287820 692027

IMPACT OF NOISE POLLUTION ON HEALTH 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2516

DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE

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

(a) whether Government is aware that due to increase in noise pollution in cities, (b) the risk of heart attack amongst citizens have increased manifold; (c) (b) if so, whether any study has been conducted by Government or any private body on impact of noise pollution on the health of citizens; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) whether the Central Government or the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in consultation with the State Governments proposes to take any effective steps to control noise pollution in cities; and (f) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (e) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has not carried out any study on impact of noise pollution on the human health. However, CPCB has established a National Ambient Noise Monitoring Network (NANMN) to monitor sound level in specified urban areas and has installed 35 stations in seven cities viz. Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore and Lucknow. The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, have mandated the responsibilities with the State Governments, District Magistrates, Police Commissioners, etc., which include the following:

i. Enforcement of Noise Pollution control measures and the due compliance of ambient air quality standards in respect of noise. ii. Restriction on the use of Loud Speakers/Public Address system. iii. Restriction on the use of Horns, Sound emitting construction equipment and bursting of Fire crackers. iv. Prohibition of continuance Music Sound or Noise.

DISAPPEARANCE OF VOLUNTARY AGENCIES WITH AFFORESTATION FUNDS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2517

DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE

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

(g) whether a large number of voluntary agencies have disappeared after receiving payments for afforestation projects funded by the National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board during the last three years; (h) if so, the details of such voluntary agencies vanishing after receiving funds and the amount involved therein; (i) whether Government has since taken any steps to locate the voluntary agencies which have vanished; (j) if so, whether any responsibility has been fixed on such lapses; and (k) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) The financial assistance to the Voluntary Organisations (VOs) were provided under the Grants-in-Aid for Greening India scheme on the basis of recommendation of the State Governments which inter-alia envisaged the tree planting by people’s participation. The funds were released in three instalments. A total of 564 projects were sanctioned to equal number of VOs during 2003-08. While 57 organisations availed all the three instalments, 245 availed two instalments and remaining 262 VOs came only for first instalment. Due to non performance of the VOs, this scheme has been discontinued since 2008-09 and no new projects have been sanctioned to NGOs during the last three years.

(c) to (e) At the instance of the Ministry, high level committees have been constituted in the states to effect investigation, recovery of funds and legal action against defaulting agencies. The essential details of the defaulting organisations have been compiled by the Ministry in specially designed templates which have been provided to the concerned states.

FASTER CLEARANCE FOR LESS-POLLUTING POWER PLANTS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2518

SHRI A. ELAVARASAN

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

(a) whether power plants using less-polluting washed coal with ash content not exceeding 34 per cent and gross calorific value not less than 4000 kcal/kg are getting faster environmental clearance; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether this move which benefits power plants of more than 100 mw comes in the wake of recent nationwide power outages for which the Ministry is keen to speed up the clearance process; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d): The use of beneficiated coal (not containing ash more than 34%) has been made mandatory w.e.f. 1st June 2002 by the power plants located beyond 1000 kms from pit head or any thermal power plants located in urban areas or sensitive areas or any critically polluted areas notified by the Central Government or critically industrial polluted cluster or area irrespective of its distance from pit head except any pit-head power plant. However, the issue of faster environmental clearance is not related with the use of beneficiated coal in power plants.

CONSERVATION OF SACRED GROVES 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2519

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH:

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

(a) whether Government has any records of the sacred groves situated in and around metropolitan cities in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) whether it is a fact that Government has no clear cut policy to declare the surrounding areas around sacred groves as conservation zone and put restriction on the usage of land surrounding the sacred groves for commercial purposes as this may disturb the ecological balance of the sacred groves?

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

(a) & (b) Records of sacred groves situated in and around metropolitan cites are not maintained at the level of the Ministry.

(c) Sacred groves are community conserved land parcels, which usually have a significant religious connotation for protecting the community, and can be notified as Community Conserved Areas under Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, and Biodiversity Heritage Sites under the Biodiversity Act, 2002. The Ministry supports protection and conservation of sacred groves with a strong emphasis on community involvement and eco-development activities, for which funds are provided to the State/Union Territory Governments under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes- Intensification of Forest Management, and Integrated Development for Wildlife Habitats.

DELAY IN FOREST CLEARANCE 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2520

SHRI Y.S. CHOWDARY

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

(a) the details of companies awaiting forest clearance from the Ministry during the last three years, State- wise; (b) the details of cases of forest clearance pending or cleared during the last three years, State-wise; (c) whether there has been inordinate delay in clearing the forest clearances cases; and (d) the steps/measures being taken by the Government in this regard?

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

(a) & (b) The details of proposals for diversion of forest land for non forestry purposes under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 received, disposed of and presently under consideration of the Central Government is given in Annexure.

(c) & (d) The proposals seeking prior approval of the Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land are examined in accordance with the provisions of the above Act and the Rules and Guidelines framed thereunder. Delay in taking decision on the proposals seeking approval under the Act is mainly due to receipt of incomplete proposals from the State/UT Governments and time taken in mandatory inspection of forest land proposed for diversion in case of proposals involving diversion of more than 100 ha of forest land in each case.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) AND (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2520 BY SHRI Y.S. CHOWDHARY REGARDING ‘DELAY IN FOREST CLEARANCES DUE FOR REPLY ON 04.09.2012

S States/ No. Under Pendin Closed Total l Union of consider g due / Num . Territo prop ation of to non- Reject ber N ries osals Govern receipt ed/ of o appr ment of of Return Prop . oved India inform ed/ osals ation Withd sought rawn from the State/ UT Govt. Year 2010 Andama 1 n & 1 2 1 4

Nicobar Island Andhra 2 Pradesh 25 2 6 1 34 Arunach al 3 Pradesh 14 2 3 19 4 Bihar 12 1 1 14 Chandig 5 arh 1 2 3 Chhattis 6 garh 17 2 1 20 Dadar & Nagar 7 Haveli 1 2 3 8 Delhi 2 1 3 9 Goa 3 2 5 1 0 Gujarat 75 1 12 88 1 1 Haryana 236 10 45 291 Himach 1 al 2 Pradesh 144 4 44 4 196 1 Jharkha 3 nd 38 3 15 56 1 Karnata 4 ka 22 2 4 9 37 1 5 Kerala 2 1 1 4 1 Madhya 6 Pradesh 28 1 14 3 46 1 Maharas 7 htra 37 2 9 2 50 1 8 Manipur 4 4 8 1 Meghal 9 aya 2 2 2 Mizora 0 m 1 1 2 2 1 Orissa 19 1 2 2 24 2 2 Punjab 254 9 67 5 335 2 Rajastha 3 n 22 5 4 31 2 4 Sikkim 21 21 2 Tamil 5 Nadu 10 1 2 13 2 6 Tripura 6 5 11 2 Uttar 7 Pradesh 143 5 6 7 161 2 Uttarak 8 hand 242 3 4 84 333 2 West 9 Bengal 9 2 11 Total 1390 48 258 129 1825 Year 2011 Andama n & Nicobar 1 Island 3 3 Andhra 2 Pradesh 24 6 10 5 45 Arunach al 3 Pradesh 13 2 5 20 4 Assam 2 2 4 5 Bihar 26 7 8 1 42 Chandig 6 arh 4 1 5 Chhattis 7 garh 7 7 9 2 25 Dadar 8 & 7 3 1 11

Nagar Haveli 9 Delhi 1 1 1 0 Goa 1 1 1 1 Gujarat 83 20 31 134 1 2 Haryana 295 17 97 1 410 Himach 1 al 3 Pradesh 84 7 64 3 158 1 Jharkha 4 nd 8 3 4 2 17 1 Karnata 5 ka 14 11 4 6 35 1 6 Kerala 4 1 3 8 1 Madhya 7 Pradesh 32 9 26 3 70 1 Maharas 8 htra 57 4 14 2 77 1 9 Manipur 2 2 2 Mizora 0 m 1 1 2 2 1 Orissa 16 4 3 23 2 2 Punjab 253 10 119 382 2 Rajastha 3 n 14 2 5 3 24 2 4 Sikkim 9 1 10 2 Tamil 5 Nadu 7 1 1 9 2 6 Tripura 1 1 2 Uttar 7 Pradesh 114 6 11 6 137 2 Uttarak 8 hand 94 5 8 101 208 2 West 9 Bengal 4 4 Total 1177 129 426 136 1868 Year 2012 Andama n & Nicobar 1 Island 1 2 3 Andhra 2 Pradesh 5 9 2 1 17 Arunach al 3 Pradesh 5 2 7 4 Assam 1 1 5 Bihar 6 4 6 16 Chhattis 6 garh 1 9 3 13 Dadar & Nagar 7 Haveli 2 2 8 Gujarat 13 12 4 29 9 Haryana 64 21 15 100 Himach 1 al 0 Pradesh 19 25 30 74 1 Jharkha 1 nd 3 12 7 22 1 Karnata 2 ka 5 13 1 19 1 3 Kerala 1 1 1 Madhya 4 Pradesh 2 21 4 27 1 Maharas 5 htra 10 10 2 22

1 6 Manipur 1 1 1 Meghal 7 aya 1 1 1 Mizora 8 m 3 3 1 9 Orissa 3 4 1 8 2 0 Punjab 15 23 13 51 2 Rajastha 1 n 3 3 6 2 Tamil 2 Nadu 1 5 6 2 Uttar 3 Pradesh 7 13 8 28 2 Uttarak 4 hand 2 3 6 6 17 2 West 5 Bengal 1 1 Total 161 197 110 7 475

NATIONAL AFFORESTATION PROGRAMME 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2521

SHRI C. M. RAMESH

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

(a) whether the National Afforestation Programme (NAP) has been functioning satisfactorily in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether there has been substantial increase in the extent of land, public and forest, in which tree plantation has been undertaken since the inception of this programme; (d) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and (e) 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 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. As on 31.03.2012, an area of 18.86 lakh hectare has been sanctioned for treatment through 42535 JFMCs since inception of the scheme. The State-wise details of funds released and approved area under NAP are given in the Annexure.

The midterm evaluation of the National Afforestation Programme was carried out by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Extension (ICFRE) during 2008. The report has brought out satisfactory performance of the scheme in afforestation and allied activities like soil and moisture conservation, entry point activities, etc., The programme has also been successful in mobilizing people in forest protection and development activities.

Annexure referred to in reply to part (c) and (d) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No.2521 by Shri C. M. Ramesh regarding National Afforestation Programme due for reply on 04/09/2012

State-wise details of funds released and approved area under National Afforestation Programme (NAP) scheme since inception of the scheme in 2000 till 31.03.2012

S.No. State Amount Released (Rs. in Approved Area (in Crore) ha.) 1 Andhra 110.30 80617

Pradesh 2 Bihar 46.53 34128 3 Chhattisgarh 216.52 116207 4 Goa 0.64 1250 5 Gujarat 183.82 95440 6 Haryana 138.70 48434 7 Himachal 49095 Pradesh 65.68 8 Jammu & 70351 Kashmir 66.16 9 Jharkhand 137.25 101315 10 Karnataka 178.88 105678 11 Kerala 55.15 35594 12 Madhya 148001 Pradesh 194.80 13 Maharashtra 179.37 127161 14 Orissa 124.48 130717 15 Punjab 22.37 18734 16 Rajasthan 60.63 49190 17 Tamil Nadu 112.02 71176 18 Uttar 145902 Pradesh 240.79 19 Uttarakhand 83.43 75801 20 West Bengal 56.57 43423 Total 2274.08 1548214 (Other States) 21 Arunachal 33446 Pradesh 31.21 22 Assam 79.53 52605 23 Manipur 77.91 42993 24 Meghalaya 39.01 26975 25 Mizoram 132.35 55090 26 Nagaland 84.58 53718 27 Sikkim 77.77 31282 28 Tripura 53.91 41961 Total (NE 576.28 338070 States) G. Total 2850.36 1886284

DISPOSAL OF CASES UNDER NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2522

SHRI VIVEK GUPTA

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

(a) whether the National Green Tribunal is disposing off the cases pending before it, within a time limit of 6 months as mandated by the relevant act; (b) the number of cases filed and the number of cases the Tribunal has disposed off so far, State-wise ; and (c) the number of cases in which compensation to be paid was ordered by the Tribunal and the number of cases in which such compensation was paid to all concerned, State-wise? MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) As per the information received from National Green Tribunal (NGT), all endeavours have been made for disposal of the cases by the Tribunal within the time limit of 6 months and most of the cases have been disposed off within that time.

(b) The total number of cases including transferred cases, appeals and application and the disposal of the cases by the NGT is as under: Total filing - 367 Total disposal - 171 Pendency - 196

(c) One (l)* *No information regarding execution of order.

COMPLIANCE OF POLLUTION CONTROL NORMS BY DISTILLERIES 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2523

DR. T.N. SEEMA:

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

(a) whether the distilleries are one of the major source of pollution in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof and its impact on human beings; (c) the steps taken by Government to address the problem; (d) the details of distilleries in operation without zero discharge, State-wise; (e) the details of steps taken by Government to ensure the distilleries achieve zero discharge of effluents; and (f) the details of surprise inspections of industries carried out by the Central and the State Pollution Control Boards for verification of compliance by distilleries to the prescribed pollution control norms during 2010 and 2011?

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

(a) The distillery sector has been identified as one of the seventeen categories of highly polluting industries and grouped under the “Red” category.

(b) The distilleries generate large volume of highly polluting effluent called “spent wash”, which is one of the recalcitrant effluent having extremely high Chemical Oxygen Demand ranging from 80,000-1,20,000 mg/l, Biochemical Oxygen Demand ranging from 40,000-60,000 mg/l, Suspended Solids, inorganic solids, low pH, strong odour and dark brown colour. Distillery effluents when disposed in fresh water bodies result in depletion of oxygen thereby endangering aquatic flora and fauna. The spent wash is non-toxic but is high in organic content and has offensive colour. Thus, any direct or indirect percolation of spent wash through land causes soil and ground water contamination resulting in soil sickness and imparting colour to ground water thereby making it unfit for human consumption.

(c) to (e) As per information available with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), a total of 404 number of distilleries are in operation in the country, of which 21 distilleries have installed dryers and 16 distilleries have installed slop fired boilers for achieving Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD). The Statewise list of 404 distilleries and the distilleries which have set up facilities to achieve ZLD are given at Annexure-I and II respectively. The steps taken by the Government to address the pollution problem include the following:

(i) The standards to be complied by distilleries for disposal of treated effluents have been notified. (ii) Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Boards have directed industries to establish waste concentration, evaporation and incineration facilities to achieve ZLD. (iii) Industries have been directed not to store spent wash for more than 30 days and stop manufacturing process during rainy season.

(f) During 2010-11, CPCB carried out surprise inspections of 27 distilleries and issued 21 directions under Section 5 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and one direction under Section 18 (1) (b) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 against non-complaint distilleries.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) to (e) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2523 DUE FOR REPLY ON 04.9.2012 REGARDING COMPLIANCE OF POLLUTION CONTROL NORMS BY DISTILLERIES RAISED BY DR. T.N.SEEMA.

S. States No. of No. Distilleries 1 Andhra 34

Pradesh 2 Assam 01 3 Bihar 13 4 Chhattisgarh 03 5 Daman & Diu 04 6 Goa 04 7 Gujarat 18 8 Haryana 12 9 Himanchal 04 Pradesh 10 Jammu & 06 Kashmir 11 Karnataka 43 12 Kerala 09 13 Maharashtra 91 14 Madhya 20 Pradesh 15 Nagaland 01 16 Orissa 08 17 Pondicherry 03 18 Punjab 11 19 Rajasthan 16 20 Sikkim 01 21 Tamil Nadu 26 22 Tripura 01 23 Uttar Pradesh 61 24 Uttaranchal 03 25 West Bengal 11 Total 404

State-wise distribution of Distilleries

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) to (e) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 2523 DUE FOR REPLY ON 04.9.2012 REGARDING COMPLIANCE OF POLLUTION CONTROL NORMS BY DISTILLERIES RAISED BY DR. T.N.SEEMA.

Distilleries which have setup facilities to achieve ZLD

S. States No. of No. Distilleries A Distilleries which have set up dryers. 1 Karnataka 4 2 Haryana 2 3 Gujarat 1 4 Tamil nadu 5 5 West Bengal 2 6 Andhra Pradesh 2 7 Maharashtra 4 8 Punjab 1 21 Total B Distilleries which have set up slop fire boilers. 1 Uttar Pradesh 5 2 Punjab 2 3 Uttarakhand 1 4 Bihar 1 5 Karnataka 3 6 Tamil nadu 2 7 Andhra Pradesh 2 16 Total

DISPLACEMENT OF VILLAGES NEAR NATIONAL PARKS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2524

SHRI FAGGAN SINGH KULASTE

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

(a) whether it is proposed to re-locate people from villages adjacent to National Parks in the country by declaring these areas as ‘Buffer Zone’ for preservation of parks specially wildlife sanctuaries; (b) if so, the number of villages proposed to be displaced under this scheme in the country; (c) whether it is also a fact that at the time of formulation of this scheme Government had already decided the number of families which will be displaced along with the amount of compensation to be provided to each family; and (d) the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d) There is no provision for declaring areas as buffer zones in respect of National Parks and Sanctuaries, which do not form part of Tiger Reserves. In respect of Tiger Reserves, the buffer area consisting of the area peripheral to critical tiger habitat or core area aim at promoting co-existence between wildlife and human activity with due recognition of the livelihood, developmental, social and cultural rights of the local people. The village relocation is not envisaged from the buffer area of tiger reserves.

UTILIZATION OF CAPMA FUNDS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2525

SHRI SANJIV KUMAR

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) has over Rs.20,000 crore deposited with it, outside Government accounts; (b) the details of the exact amount deposited with it as on 31 March, 2012; (c) whether reports on accounts of CAMPA are submitted to Parliament, annually; (d) the system in place by which Parliament keeps abreast of accountability of such large funds; (e) the annual allocation during the last three years and whether the Parliament is kept informed about these allocations; and (f) the accomplishments/activities done in the country, especially in Jharkhand till 2012?

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

(a) to (e) as the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) which was notified on 23rd April 2004 had not become operational, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, vide their Order dated 5th May 2006 in Writ Petition (Civil) No.202 of 1995 directed constitution of the Ad-hoc body, viz., the Ad-hoc CAMPA till CAMPA became operational and directed that all the monies recovered on behalf of the ‘CAMPA’ be transferred to the bank account(s) to be operated by this body. The bulk of the funds thus transferred to the bank account(s) operated by the Ad-hoc CAMPA are held in fixed deposits in nationalised banks and were of the order of Rs.23,000 crores as on 31st March 2012. As per the orders of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in the above Writ Petition, the funds held by the Ad-hoc CAMPA are kept outside the Consolidated Fund of India, and the Public Account of India. In their judgment dated 26th September 2005 in the said Writ Petition, the Hon’ble Supreme Court has also observed that the provisions of articles 110, 195, 199, 266, 283, 284 and/ or 294 would not have any application to the fund. A statement showing the funds released to the State CAMPAs in the years 2009- 10, 2010-11 and 2011-12 is at Annexure;

(f) expenditure on the basis of the allocations made to the State CAMPAs is undertaken in terms of the Guidelines for State CAMPAs which have been approved by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, in their order dated 10th July 2009 in the above Writ Petition.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN THE REPLY TO PARTS (a) to (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION No.2525 BY SHRI RAJIV KUMAR ANSWERED ON 4th SEPTEMBER, 2012.

Release of funds (State CAMPA)

2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 l Stat Amou Amou e/U Da Da Amount Da nt (in nt (in N T te te (in Rs.) te Rs.) Rs.) o

And ama 01. 18. n & 28. 10,990 10. 06. Nico 08. 7,869,0 5,779, ,000.0 20 20 bar 20 00.00 000.00 0 10 12 Islan 09 ds

And 01. 23. 28. hra 897,83 10. 1,207,4 08. 1,185, 2 08. Prad 2,000. 20 44,000. 20 700,00 20 esh 00 10 00 11 0.00 09 08. 09. 20 11 25. 10. Aru 22. 20 nach 03. 163,67 11. 11 411,90 3 al 04. 177,882 6,000. 20 09. 0,000. Prad 20 ,000.00 00 10 11. 00 esh 10 20 11 29. 11. 20 11

01. 17. Assa 67,174 10. 4 08. 104,487 m ,000.0 20 20 ,000.00 0 10 09

18. 25. 20. Biha 77,300 01. 11. 80,400 5 11. 86,674, r ,000.0 20 20 ,000.0 20 000.00 0 11 11 0 09

01. Cha 17. 10. 6 ndig 08. 1,765, 1,296,0 20 arh 20 000.00 00.00 10 09

01. 08. Chh 17. 1,232, 10. 1,341,0 09. 995,43 7 attis 08. 135,00 20 66,000. 20 9,000. garh 20 0.00 10 00 11 00 09 Dad

ra & 28. 04. Nag 10. 09. 1,682, 1,536, ar 20 20 000.00 000.00 Hav 11 09 eli Dam 9 an & Diu

18. 21. Delh 18,471 01. 01. 13,991, 0 i ,000.0 20 20 000.00 0 11 10

01. 17. 121,19 10. Goa 08. 102,468 7,000. 20 20 ,000.00 00 10 09

01. 08. 19. Guja 249,64 10. 09. 263,00 08. 291,568 2 rat 7,000. 20 20 0,000. 20 ,000.00 00 10 11 00 09 01. 11. Har 17. 191,14 10. 188,909 06. 164,50 3 yana 08. 1,000. 20 ,000.00 20 0,000.

20 00 10 12 00 09 23. 08. Him 01. 20 acha 21. 366,77 10. 11 571,26 l 08. 421,656 4 1,000. 20 09. 2,400. Prad 20 ,000.00 00 10 12. 00 esh 09 20 11 Jam mu & 5 Kas hmir

01. 24. Jhar 12. 950,02 10. 1,031,6 11. 624,98 khan 03. 6 8,000. 20 22,000. 20 9,300. d 20 00 10 00 11 00 10 30. 08.

01. 20 Kar 19. 585,57 10. 11 415,70 nata 08. 509,160 7 3,000. 20 09. 0,000. ka 20 ,000.00 00 10 09. 00 09 20 11

12. Kera 17,509 03. la ,000.0 20 0 10 Laks had

9 wee p

Mad 01. 09. 17. 2 hya 530,48 10. 01. 535,20 08. 509,656 0 Prad 2,000. 20 20 9,000. 20 ,000.00 esh 00 10 12 00 09

18. 16. Mah 22. 2 893,54 01. 11. 826,30 aras 02. 854,893 9,000. 20 20 0,000. htra 20 ,000.00 00 11 11 00 10

01. 11. 08. 2 Man 10. 06. 19,134 12. 7,456, 13,350, 2 ipur 20 20 ,000.0 20 000.00 000.00 10 12 0 09

Meg 20. 2 hala 04. 967,00 3 ya 20 0.00 10 Miz 2 ora 4 m Nag 2 alan 5 d 23. 08.

18. 20 21. 2 Oris 1,310, 01. 1,401,7 11 1,668, 08. 6 sa 618,00 20 53,000. 04. 510,05 20 0.00 11 00 06. 0.00 09 20 12 Pon 2 dich 7 erry

15. 09. 01. 08. 20 2 Punj 330,54 10. 200,20 12. 265,215 11 ab 7,000. 20 0,000. 20 ,000.00 21. 00 10 00 09 09. 20 11

18. 11. Raja 07. 2 325,90 01. 11. 318,91 stha 01. 420,698 9 8,000. 20 20 3,000. n 20 ,000.00 00 11 11 00 10 3 Sikk 01. 02.

0 im 17. 80,092 10. 102,334 09. 90,400 08. ,000.0 20 ,000.00 20 ,000.0 20 0 10 11 0 09 22. 12. 11. 10. 20 20 10 11

Tam 01. 12. 08. 3 il 19,713 10. 06. 13,830 12. 17,032, Nad ,000.0 20 20 ,000.0 20 000.00 u 0 10 12 0 09

18. 12. 3 Trip 35,418 01. 03. 25,848, 2 ura ,000.0 20 20 000.00 0 11 10

Utta 16. 10. 3 r 470,96 03. 05. 353,505 3 Prad 2,000. 20 20 ,000.00 esh 00 12 10

01. 25. Utta 17. 3 816,53 10. 06. 653,16 rakh 08. 827,488 4 2,000. 20 20 0,000. and 20 ,000.00 00 10 12 00 09 01. 10.

Wes 20 09. 08. 3 t 52,957 10 03. 48,436 12. 62,760, 5 Ben ,000.0 22. 20 ,000.0 20 000.00 gal 0 11. 12 0 09 20 10

10,340, 9,094, 9,828, Total 624,000 297,75 092,00 .00 0.00 0.00

ECO-CITY SCHEME 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2526

DR.K.V.P.RAMACHANDRA RAO

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Eco-City Scheme was initiated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in 2002-03 in selected towns/cities, including Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh; (b) if so, the success achieved so far in implementation of the scheme; and (c) the details of further action taken in the scheme?

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

(a) to (c) The Eco-City Scheme was initiated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in 2002-03 in selected towns/cities, including, Tirupati ,Andhra Pradesh with a view to improving the environment through implementation of identified environmental improvement projects.

Limited success was observed at Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, under the scheme. In view of the limited capacities of the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs), issues of coordination between CPCB, SPCBs & Municipalities, and availability of other schemes for Urban development like Jawahar Lal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), it was decided in October 2011 to close the Eco-city scheme of CPCB in public interest.

REPORT OF DR. MADHAV GADGIL COMMITTEE ON WESTERN GHATS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2527

SHRI C.P. NARAYANAN

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

(a) whether Government is informed that some State Governments have turned down the conclusion of Dr. Madhav Gadgil Committee’s report on Western Ghats; (b) whether the Central Government intends to concede their demands or uphold the Committee Report or appoint another committee to give recommendations regarding the same; and (c) whether the Central Government is creating precedence on exploitation of natural resources in the region at the expense of the preservation of flora and fauna existing in the region and protection of water flowing from the Western Ghats?

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

(a) (b) & (c). The Ministry of Environment and Forests initiated a formal consultative process with the concerned State Governments and Central Ministries by seeking their comments/views on the Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP) report. The Ministry has also uploaded the WGEEP report on its website for eliciting comments/views of stakeholders on 23rd May 2012 within a period of 45 days. The Ministry has since received comments from some of the concerned State Governments and Central Ministries and large number of stakeholders. The Ministry has not taken any view on the same.

The Ministry has constituted a High Level Working Group under the Chairmanship of Dr. K Kasturirangan, Member, Planning Commission vide office order dated 17.8.2012 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 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 been asked to submit its report in two months.

STATUS OF PROPOSAL FROM COAST GUARDS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2528

SHRI PALVAI GOVARDHAN REDDY

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

(a) whether any proposal from the Coast Guards was placed for approval before the meeting of Standing Committee on National Board for Wildlife (SCNBW) in its meeting held on June, 2012; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the SCNBW has taken any decision on this; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d) Yes Sir. The Standing Committee of National Board for Wildlife in its 25th Meeting held on 13th June 2012 considered the proposal regarding construction of a RADAR on the Narcondam Island. Based on the deliberations of the Committee, it has been decided not to recommend the proposal and instead advise the proponents to work on different surveillance options like aerial, satellite, off-shore, ship based or other island located systems, other than land based RADAR on Narcondam island.

RESEARCH ON QUALITY OF RIVER WATERS 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2529

SHRI THAAWAR CHAND GEHLOT

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

(a) whether Government has conducted any research to know about the qualities of rivers’ water; (b) If so, the details of research reports; and (c) whether Government has formulated any action plan for the use of water as per qualities according to the research reports; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has been carrying out research and field-based investigations to assess the water quality and related issues of the rivers. The studies undertaken by CPCB include physico-chemical and biological/ microbiological investigations, Inventorisation of polluting sources for estimating pollution load.

(c) & (d) Based on the studies indicated in part (a) and (b) above, CPCB has evolved criteria for designated best-use of river water quality in the stretches and has identified 150 polluted river stretches in 121 rivers. River action plans and programs for restoration of water quality of polluted river stretches are based on these studies.

APPOINTMENT OF CHAIRMAN IN NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2530

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the post of the Chairman, National Green Tribunal is lying vacant since January, 2012; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; (c) the details of eligibility criteria and other terms and conditions for appointment of its Chairman; and (d) by when the vacant post is likely to be filled up?

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

(a ) & (b): Yes, Sir. Consequent to resignation of Shri Justice L.S. Panta, the post of Chairperson, National Green Tribunal (NGT) has fallen vacant since January 1, 2012. Subsequently, Shri Justice R.V. Raveendran who was recommended by Hon’ble for the post of Chairperson, NGT intimated his unwillingness for the post due to personal reasons. However, Shri Justice A.S. Naidu, Judicial Member is functioning as the acting Chairperson, NGT.

(c ) The terms and conditions for appointment of Chairperson, NGT have been provided in Sections 5, 6 and 7 of the NGT Act, 2010. Section 5 (1) of the Act provides, inter alia, that a person who is or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court of India or Chief Justice of a High Court is qualified to be appointed as the Chairperson of the NGT. Further, Section 6(2) of the Act provides that subject to the qualifications as provided in Section 5, the Chairperson shall be appointed by the Central Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of India. Section 7 of the Act provides, inter alia, for a term of five years for Chairperson from the date he enters upon office provided that in case a person who is or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court shall not hold office after he has attained the age of seventy years, provided further that in case a person who is or has been the Chief Justice of a High Court is appointed as Chairperson, he shall not hold office after he has attained the age of sixty-seven years.

(d) The recommendation of the Chief Justice of India for the post of Chairperson, NGT has been received and is being processed.

COMPLAINTS FOR SCRAPING OF GANGA RIVER BASIN AUTHORITY 4th September, 2012

RSQ 2531

SHRI Y. S. CHOWDARY

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

(a) whether Government has received complaints for scraping of the Ganga River Basin Authority; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the actions taken by the Government till date?

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

(a), (b) & (c) The Ministry of environment & Forests has not received any complaints for scraping of the Ganga River Basin Authority and hence no action has been taken in this regard.

STEPS TAKEN FOR MAKING THE YAMUNA RIVER POLLUTION FREE 27th November, 2012

RSQ *62

SHRI DARSHAN SINGH YADAV

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

(a) the allocation of funds made during the last three years till date to make the Yamuna river pollution free, year- wise; (b) whether it is a fact that the Supreme Court has issued instructions to Government expressing concern over pollution in the Yamuna river; (c) if so, the details thereof; (d) whether the Central Government has taken any steps to clean the Yamuna river as per the orders of the Supreme Court; and (e) if so, the details thereof along with the achievements made 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 Lok Sabha Starred Question No.62 to be answered on Tuesday, the 27th November, 2012 on “Steps taken for making the Yamuna river pollution free” by Shri Darshan Singh Yadav

(a) The details of funds released by this Ministry during the last three years as well as the current financial year for conservation of river Yamuna under Yamuna Action Plan are as under:

Year Funds Released (Rs. crore) 2009-2010 105.00 2010-2011 111.49 2011-2012 47.06 2012-2013 ( till date) 40.42

(b) & (c) The Hon’ble Supreme Court in the matter of ‘And Quiet Flows the Maily Yamuna’ WP(C) 725/1994 in its proceedings dated 09.11.2012 expressed concern over the pollution in river Yamuna and called for cogent and

collective efforts of all the authorities concerned to make the river pollution free. The Hon’ble Court further granted three weeks’ time to the Committee comprising of Member Secretary of Central Pollution Control Board and Chief Engineer of Delhi Jal Board accompanied by the Amicus Curies to complete joint inspection of sites and submit their final report.

(d) & (e) 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 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, a total of 296 schemes, including 40 sewage treatment plants, have been completed in 21 towns of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi and expenditure of Rs. 1438.34 crore (including State share) has been incurred till end of June, 2012. 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 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.

Safety of tigers in the country 27th November, 2012

RSQ *63

SHRI D.P. TRIPATHI

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the National Tiger Conservative Authority (NTCA) has failed in its mission; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; and (c) the details of action Government is taking for the safety of tigers in the country?

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. *63 ON SAFETY OF TIGERS IN THE COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

(a) No Sir. Due to concerted efforts, monitoring and milestone initiatives of the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the country level tiger population, estimated 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 all India estimation (2010), as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively.

(b) Question does not arise.

(c) The milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection and conservation of tigers are at Annexure-I. Annexure-I

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *63 ON SAFETY OF TIGERS IN THE COUNTRY DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

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 making 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.

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. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

24. 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.

25. 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.

26. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

27. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

28. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves.

29. 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.

30. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-2011 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

31. Increase in the allocation for Project Tiger with additional components.

32. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas.

33. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi, a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity and tiger conservation.

34. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and Guwahati.

35. Launching of Phase-IV tiger reserve level monitoring.

Bio-diversity awareness 27th November, 2012

RSQ *74

SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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 Rs. 1000 crore every year on bio-diversity-related activities; and (b) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken in this direction in the Twelfth Five Year Plan period, State- wise, including Andhra-Pradesh, particularly in the agency areas of Araku?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIORNMENT & FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

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

Encroachment of forest areas 27th November, 2012

RSQ 488

SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government is aware of the encroachments of forest areas in some States; and (b) if so, the details thereof during the last four years and the action taken against the violators, so far, State- wise?

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

(a) The Central Government is aware of the encroachments of forest areas in some states.

(b) Details of encroachments available with the Ministry is at Annexure. However, details of action taken against individual violators is not maintained in the Ministry. The Central Government has issued instructions to all State Governments vide letter No.7-16/2002-FC dated 3-5-02 to take time bound action for the eviction of illegal encroachment of forest lands.

ANNEXURE STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 488 BY SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI AND SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN REGARDING ‘ENCROACHMENT OF FOREST AREAS’DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

S. No. Name of States Area Under Encroachment (in As on (Date) ha.) 1 Andhra Pradesh 2,56,000.00 11.03.2011 2 Bihar Nil 01.12.2010 3 Chhattisgarh 1,18,494.60 07.03.2011 4 Gujarat 34,791.00 31.03.2010 5 Goa NIL 24.11.2011 6 Haryana 184.63 24.11.2011 7 H.P 1,832.1403 21.03.2011 8 J & K 13360.0945 17.10.2012 9 Jharkhand 27117.89 16.01.2012 10 Karnataka 96,014.349 14.03.2011 11 Kerala 42,420.5085 16.05.2011 12 M.P 8,077.72 27.08.2011 13 Maharashtra 85,388 31.12.2010

14 Orissa 78,505.077 01.01.2004 15 Punjab 7404 23.11.2011 16 Rajasthan 16465.31 09.12.2011 17 Tamil Nadu 14,352.16 07.03.2011 18 U.P 26,795.53 14.02.2011 19 Uttaranchal 9,676 31.03.2010 20 West Bengal 12,660.972 31.03.2010 21 Arunachal Pradesh 58,553.07 04.03.2011 22 Assam 2,59,700.00 18.03.2011 23 Manipur 1,918.37 02.08.2011 24 Meghalaya 9,378.00 21.03.2011 25 Mizoram 12,057.90 01.10.2010 26 Nagaland 2,671.86 22.11.2010 27 Sikkim 3,300.96 27.05.2011 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 22.12.2010 32 Daman & Diu 87.83 28.09.2010 33 Lakshadweep Nil 16.03.2011 34 New Delhi 629.51 03.04.2012 35 Puducherry Nil

Evaluation of cleaning of rivers 27th November, 2012

RSQ 489

SHRI DARSHAN SINGH YADAV

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

(a) the quantum of funds spent on the cleaning of Yamuna, Ganga and other rivers as on date;

(b) the achievements made thereof; (c) whether Government has carried out or proposes to carry out any evaluation of the rivers particularly of river Yamuna; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) if not, the reasons therefor; and (f) the effective steps being taken or proposed to be taken by Government to make the sacred rivers pollution free?

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

(a) & (b) An amount of Rs.8847.22 crore have been sanctioned under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) since 1985, out of which Rs.5542.42 crore have been utilised. Both the amounts include share of State Governments also. NRCP presently covers 41 rivers, including river Ganga and Yamuna, in 191 towns spread over 20 States. Pollution abatement schemes implemented under the plan include interception, diversion and treatment of sewage; low cost sanitation works on river banks; electric/ improved wood based crematoria, etc. Sewage treatment capacity of 4704 mld (million litres per day) has been created under the Plan so far.

(c) to (e) As per the river water quality monitoring carried out by Central Pollution Control Board from time to time, the water quality in the stretch of the river Yamuna from Hathnikund to Palla is found to be within the prescribed limits in terms of Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD). However, the stretch of the river in the vicinity of Delhi (downstream of Wazirabad barrage to upstream of Okhla barrage) and in parts of Uttar Pradesh does not meet the standards in terms of BOD. The water quality of 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.

(f) 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 NGRBA in its first meeting has resolved that under Mission Clean Ganga it will be ensured that by 2020 no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluents flow into Ganga.

For abatement of pollution of river Yamuna, financial assistance of an amount of Rs.595.86. crore & Rs.426.32 crore have been released in Phase-I & Phase-II to U.P., Delhi & Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP). Further, for the Phase - III of YAP for Delhi has been approved by the Ministry in December, 2011 at an estimated cost of Rs 1656 crore.

Ban on plastic bags in Delhi Rajasthan 27th November, 2012

RSQ 490

SHRI AVINASH PANDE:

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

(a) whether Government is aware of the ban on plastic bags in Delhi and Rajasthan; (b) the manner in which the ban has been implemented; (c) whether Government has undertaken any follow-ups with regard to the ban; (d) the details of the regulation mechanism, if any; and (e) if not, reasons therefor?

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

(b) to (e): As per the notification dated October 23, 2012 of Govt. of Delhi, no person shall manufacture, import, store, sell or transport any kinds of plastic carry bags (including that of polypropylene non-woven fabric type carry bags) in the whole of National Capital Territory of Delhi. The notification will come into force with effect from 23.11.2012. The notification, inter-alia, has provided the list of authorized officers for implementation and monitoring the ban on plastic carry bags in National Capital Territory of Delhi.

The Govt. of Rajasthan vide notification dated July 21, 2010 has banned use of plastic carry bags in Rajasthan. The notification, inter-alia, has provided the list of officers for enforcing the ban on plastic carry bags. The officers who are authorised to implement the provisions of the said Notification are empowered to file complaints under section 19 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has notified the Plastic Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011. Under these Rules, municipal authorities are responsible for setting up, operationalisation and coordination of the waste management system including collection, storage, segregation, transportation, processing and disposal of plastic waste. They are required to set up collection centers for plastic waste and to ensure its channelisation to recyclers, create awareness, engage agencies or groups working in waste management including waste pickers and to ensure that open burning of plastic waste is not permitted. State Pollution Control Boards/Pollution Control Committees are responsible for enforcement of provisions related to registration, manufacture and recycling. MoEF has written to the State Governments/Union Territories, Ministry of Urban Development, Central Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Boards/ Pollution Control Committees to ensure implementation of the Rules. MoEF is also providing financial assistance for conducting training and awareness programs for various stakeholders pertaining to municipal solid waste including plastic waste management.

Man-animal conflict 27th November, 2012

RSQ 491

SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government is finding a solution to man-animal conflict; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) if not, by when the steps will be taken in this direction in consultation with State Government and other NGOs?

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

(a),(b) & (c) Increase in human population coupled with shrinkage in wildlife habitats has led to a conflict situation. Forests and wildlife management strategy inter alia includes taking up of long term as well as short term measures through the State Governments in consultation with NGOs for mitigation of man-animal conflict. The Central Government has taken following steps to mitigate the man-animal conflict:

1.In the Centrally Sponsored Schemes, viz., ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’, ‘Project Tiger’ and ‘Project Elephant’ financial assistance is provided to the State Governments 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.

3.Payment of ex-gratia relief to the victims of wild animal attacks and depredation.

4.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.

5.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.

6.Programmes are launched to sensitize people and create awareness about the Do's and Don’ts in case of wild animals scare and attacks.

7. 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. 8.Training programmes are conducted for forest and police staff to address the problems of human-wildlife conflict.

9. Involvement of the research and academic institutions and leading voluntary organizations having expertise in managing human-wildlife conflict situations.

Pollution free Delhi 27th November, 2012

RSQ 492

SHRI MOHAN SINGH:

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

(a) whether Government is aware that environment in Delhi has become completely polluted due to which infectious diseases among people have increased manifold; (b) whether Government is contemplating upon any ambitious scheme to make the National Capital Region pollution free; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (c) The Central Pollution Control Board is monitoring ambient air quality in Delhi. Thedata from 2001 to 2011 indicate that the SO2 levels were within the prescribed National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).However, the levels of NO2and PM10exceeded the prescribedstandards.The health effects, such as manifestation of respiratory aliments etc., could be associated with pollution. However, due to various confounding factors, no conclusive data is established indicating correlationship between pollution and consequential health impacts. 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 quality monitoring stations, preparation and implementation of action plans for major cities & critically polluted areas, public awareness etc.

Proposal for development works related projects 27th November, 2012

RSQ 493

SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA:

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

(a) the number of proposals regarding development works related projects, under Forest Act, 1980, received by the Ministry for approval from Uttarakhand during the last three months; and (b) the details of proposals approved and the proposals returned on account of shortcomings therein?

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

(a) & (b) During the period of last three and half months from 01.08.2012 to 15.11.2012, Central Government received 35 proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose from the State Government of Uttarakhand. Out of these proposals, final approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 has already been accorded to two proposals. In-principle

approval has been accorded to seven proposals. Three proposals have been rejected on merit. Certain essential information/documents have been sought from the State Government of Uttarakhand in respect of sixteen proposals.

PARTICIPATION OF STATES IN CONSERVATION OF RIVERS 27th November, 2012

RSQ 494

SHRI DARSHAN SINGH YADAV

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

(a) whether Government has formulated any project to make major rivers of the country pollution-free; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the amount allocated for implementation of this project by Government; (d) whether State Governments also spend money in this project; and (e) if so, the details of expenditure on this project by State Governments?

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

(a) & (b) Conservation of rivers and lakes 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 identified stretches of various rivers under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP). NRCP presently covers 41 rivers in 191 towns spread over 20 States. Pollution abatement schemes implemented under the plan include interception, diversion and treatment of sewage; low cost sanitation works on river banks; electric/ improved wood based crematoria, etc.

(c), (d) & (e) Under the Plan, funds are provided to States for implementing pollution abatement works of various rivers in the cost sharing ratio of 70:30 between the Centre and the States. For the North-East States the cost sharing ratio is 90:10. An amount of Rs.8847.22 crore have been sanctioned under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) since 1985, out of which Rs.5542.42 crore have been utilised. Both the amounts include share of State Governments also.

ENVIRONMENT-RELATED SECURITY IN CONSTRUCTION WORKS 27th November, 2012

RSQ 495

DR. PRABHA THAKUR

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

(a) whether Government is conscious of environment related security in the cities of the country; (b) whether environment-related rules are being followed in the multi-storied buildings and those under- construction in Lokhandwala region of Andheri West in Mumbai; and (c) the details of environment-related rules in building and construction works?

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

(a) to (c) Environment Clearance for Building and Construction & Township and Area Development Projects is dealt under items 8 (a) & (b) of the schedule to the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006. These are category ‘B’ projects which are appraised by the State level expert appraisal committee (SEAC). Building and Construction projects having built-up area greater than or equal to 20,000 square meters (sq. mts) and less than 1,50,000 sq. mts are covered under item 8(a) of the schedule and Township and Area Development projects having area greater than or equal to 50 hectares and or built-up area greater than or equal to 1,50,000 sq. mts are covered under item 8 (b) of the schedule.

As per information provided by Government of Maharashtra, Building and Construction projects which attract EIA Notification, 2006 are being undertaken as per the provisions of the Notification.

Funding for different projects in Madhya Pradesh 27th November, 2012

RSQ 496

SHRI RAGHUNANDAN SHARMA:

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

(a) whether the Union Government has received a number of proposals from the State Government of Madhya Pradesh for allocation of funds for various projects during the last three years and the current year; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the details of funds released so far; (d) the number of proposals pending for allocation of funds and the reasons for the pendency of these proposals so far; and (e) by when these proposals are likely to be approved?

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

(a), (b) & (c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests provides funding to various States, including Madhya Pradesh, under various Plan schemes. Based on proposals received from the State Government of Madhya Pradesh for allocation of funds under various Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes administered by this Ministry, the details of the funds released during the last three years and the current year, are furnished in Annex.

(d) & (e) Two proposals for JICA-ODA loan related to conservation and management for 10 lakes in Bhopal and on Non-Timber Forest Product have been taken up for inter-Departmental consultation. Under the National Lake Conservation Programme, proposals from the State Government for conservation of Munj and DeviSagar Lake in Dhar, and Sindhsagar lake in Ashok Nagar, have been taken up as per guidelines, prioritization and availability of funds. Allocations to the Madhya Pradesh State CAMPA were Rs. 530,482,000/- in 2009-10, Rs. 509,656,000/- in 2010-11 and Rs. 535,209,000/- for 2011-12, and their Annual Plan of Operation for 2012-13 has so far not been received by this Ministry.

Annex referred to in the reply to parts (a), (b) & (c) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 496 regarding “Funding for Different Projects in Madhya Pradesh” by Shri Raghunandan Sharma, Member of Parliament, due for answer on 27.11.2012 (Rs. lakh) Sl. Scheme 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 No. National Tiger Conservation Authority 1. Bandhavgarh 159.96 2292.12 2313.23 275.70 2. Kanha 280.18 575.96 1969.67 4267.54 3. Panna 175.89 390.69 284.79 237.07 4. Pench 158.32 236.43 191.53 64.75 5. Sanjay Dubri 145.84 203.45 92.67 176.10 6. Satpura 1502.37 264.16 310.80 333.07 7. Kuno Palpur(Cheela Project) 0.00 0.00 190.00 0.00 Total 2422.57 3962.82 5352.71 5357.24 Biosphere Reserve 8. Pachmarhi 94.20 25.29 47.98 Nil 9. Achanakmar-Amarkantak 25.03 24.23 70.00 Nil National Wetland Programme 10. Skhyasagar 10.97 0.00 0.00 10.97 11. Sirpur 0.00 0.00 1.00 60.00 ENVIS Scheme

12 Disaster Management Institute, Bhopal 5.62 5.73 6.67 Nil State Forest Development Agency 13 Forest Training School, Amarkantak - - - 599.96 14 Forest Training Scholl, Betul - 540.10 - 26.60 15 Forest Training School, Shivpuri - - - 399.38 16 Forest Training School, Lakhnadon - - - 599.73 Total - 540.10 - 1625.69 National Afforestation and Eco-development Board 17 National Afforestation Programme 2253.00 3039.00 2143.00 622.00 18 Green India Mission 0.00 0.00 824.00 0.00 Assistance for Abatement of Pollution 19 State Pollution Control Board 63.08 0.00 0.00 0.00 Intensification of Forest Management (IFM) 20 IFM 0.00 379.69 697.65 709.21 Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats 21 Annual Plan of Operations 541.98 635.36 506.16 467.70 Waste Management 22 Treatment, Storage and Disposal Facility for 0.00 80.00 0.00 0.00 hazardous waste at Pitampur 23 Training/awareness Programme on municipal solid 0.00 0.00 0.00 10.50 waste management Biodiversity Conservation 24 Implementation of Provisions of Biodiversity Act 7.00 7.00 22.00 8.00 Environmental Education 25 National Green Corps 340.60 341.25 341.25 341.25 26 National Environmental Awareness Campaign 86.09 63.13 65.51 69.53

CLEANING OF YAMUNA RIVER 27th November, 2012

RSQ 497

SHRIMATI JAYA BACHCHAN

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

(a) whether the Supreme Court had asked the Central Government and the States Governments of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi to produce information on the expenditure incurred by them to make the Yamuna river clean; (b) whether it is a fact that the Court has asked the Central Water Pollution Control Board to collect samples of Yamuna water till Agra and submit a report on its cleanliness; (c) whether the States and the Centre have since submitted their reports to the Court; (d) the result of the samples taken; and (e) the details thereof ?

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

(a) The Hon’ble Supreme Court in the matter of ‘And Quiet Flows the Maily Yamuna’ WP(C) 725/1994 in its order dated 10.10.2012 directed Secretaries of Ministry of Urban Development and Ministry of Irrigation and Power, Chief Secretaries of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, Vice-Chairman of Delhi Development Authority, Commissioners of the respective Corporations and the Chief Executive Officer of Delhi Jal Board to file affidavits indicating details of the amount spent project wise on preventing and controlling pollution in river Yamuna under various programmes. In compliance, the concerned authorities have filed their Affidavits in the Court.

(b) & (c) In compliance to directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has submitted on 12.09.2012 their water quality monitoring report on river Yamuna based on water samples of the river collected during August, 2012 from 14 locations in the stretch from Hathnikund to Agra in the states of Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.

(d) & (e) As per the report of CPCB, the cumulative assessment of the key parameters of water quality viz. pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Ammonia and Total Coliforms indicates that river Yamuna is not conforming to the desired levels from Hathnikund to Agra due to higher concentration of one or the other criteria pollutants despite excessive monsoon flow in the river. However, in terms of BOD, an important water quality parameter, the water quality in the stretch of river Yamuna from Hathnikund to Palla meets the prescribed standards, while it does not meet the desired standards in the river stretch from Nizamuddin Bridge in Delhi to Agra.

Lifting of ban on tourism in tiger reserves 27th November, 2012

RSQ 498

DR. PRADEEP KUMAR BALMUCHU

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

(a) whether Government has received any representation for lifting the ban on carrying out tourism activities in tiger reserves; (b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and (c) whether any decision has been taken by Government in this regard?

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

(a), (b) & (c) Pursuant to the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the Special Leave to Appeal (Civil) No. 21339/2011 – Ajay Dubey Vs National Tiger Conservation Authority and Others, a set of comprehensive guidelines under section 38-O (1)(c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for Project Tiger and Tourism in Tiger Reserves, has been notified by the National Tiger Conservation Authority on 15th October, 2012, considering the views of stakeholders. The said guidelines allow regulated tourism in tiger reserves.

MONITORING OF POLLUTION BY CPCB IN TAMIL NADU 27th November, 2012

RSQ 500

SHRIMATI KANIMOZHI

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

(a) the details of steps taken by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to combat pollution caused by industries at State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) industrial estate at Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu; (b) whether the CPCB is monitoring emissions from the industrial units and 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 Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has developed a Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) criteria and has assigned scores to 88 prominent industrial clusters in the country. A score of any cluster exceeding 70 has been considered as critically polluted. An industrial cluster at Cuddalore of State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) has been identified as one of the critically polluted cluster having a CEPI score of 77.45. A field survey was carried out and based on the different components of environment, including emissions, the assessment of pollution was made. A remedial action plan has been prepared and is under implementation through the concerned agencies in Tamil Nadu. After the implementation of the action plan, a reassessment of the situation would be carried out by CPCB to see the success achieved in bringing down the CEPI score.

CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS 27th November, 2012

RSQ 501

SHRI :

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

(a) the number of tiger reserves in the country including the present tiger population in these reserves; (b) the number of cases of killing/hunting of tigers and other animals in the forest areas of the country which came to light during the last three years, State-wise; (c) whether Government has provided funds for the protection of tigers and other wild animals during the said period; and (d) if so, the details thereof along with the strategy adopted by Government to protect tigers and other animals in forest areas of the country, State-wise?

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

(a) A list of tiger reserves in the country is at Annexure-I. The details of recent (2010) country level estimation of tiger population, done once in four years, using the refined methodology, are at Annexure-II. (b) As reported by States, details of mortality of some major wild animals (tiger, elephant, lion and rhino) during the last three years and the current year, are at Annexures-III(a), III(b), III(c) & III(d) respectively. (c) & (d) Funding support is provided to States under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, Project Elephant and Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats, and the details of central assistance provided to States during the last three years and the current year are at Annexure-IV, V and VI respectively. The milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection of tigers and other wild animals are at Annexure-VII.

Annexure-I

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

List of Tiger Reserves in India

Sl. No. Name of Tiger Reserve State 1 Bandipur Karnataka 2 Corbett Uttarakhand 3 Kanha Madhya Pradesh 4 Manas Assam 5 Melghat Maharashtra 6 Palamau Jharkhand 7 Ranthambore Rajasthan 8 Similipal Orissa 9 Sunderbans West Bengal 10 Periyar Kerala 11 Sariska Rajasthan

12 Buxa West Bengal 13 Indravati Chhattisgarh 14 Nagarjunsagar Andhra Pradesh 15 Namdapha Arunachal Pradesh 16 Dudhwa Uttar Pradesh 17 Kalakad-Mundanthurai Tamil Nadu 18 Valmiki Bihar 19 Pench Madhya Pradesh 20 Tadoba-Andhari Maharashtra 21 Bandhavgarh Madhya Pradesh 22 Panna Madhya Pradesh 23 Dampa Mizoram 24 Bhadra Karnataka 25 Pench Maharashtra 26 Pakke Arunachal Pradesh 27 Nameri Assam 28 Satpura Madhya Pradesh 29 Anamalai Tamil Nadu 30 Udanti-Sitanadi Chattisgarh 31 Satkosia Orissa 32 Kaziranga Assam 33 Achanakmar Chattisgarh 34 Dandeli-Anshi Karnataka 35 Sanjay-Dubri Madhya Pradesh 36 Mudumalai Tamil Nadu 37 Nagarahole Karnataka 38 Parambikulam Kerala 39 Sahyadri Maharashtra 40 Biligiri Ranganatha Temple Karnataka 41. Kawal Andhra Pradesh

Annexure-II

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

Details of tiger estimation for the year 2006 and 2010

State Tiger Population

2006 2010 Increase/ Decrease/ Stable Estimate Statistical Statistical Estimate Statistical Statistical (Number) Lower Upper (Number Lower Upper Limit Limit ) Limit Limit 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- 297 259 335 353 320 388 Stable Gangetic landscape 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 300 236 364 257 213 301 Stable Pradesh 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 10 6 14 Could not be assessed compared since it was not assessed in 2006. Central Indian 601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable landscape 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 402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase landscape North Eastern Hills and Brahmaputra Flood Plains Assam 70 60 80 143 113 173 Increase Arunachal 14 12 18 Not Not Not Could not be Pradesh assessed assessed assessed compared since it was not assessed in 2010. Mizoram 6 4 8 5 (-)*** (-)*** (-)*** Stable Northern West 10 8 12 Not Not Not Could not be Bengal assessed assessed assessed compared since it was not assessed in 2010. North East 100 84 118 148 118 178 Increase Hills, and Brahmaputra landscape Sundarbans Not Not Not 70 64 90 Could not be assessed assessed assessed 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-III(a)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

Details of tiger mortality, as reported by States, during the last three years and current year

Sl. State 2009 2010 2011 2012 No. (as on 22.11.2012) Poachi Natural Poachi Natural Poachi Natural Poachi Natural & ng & other ng & other ng & other ng other includi causes includi causes includi causes includi causes ng ng ng ng seizure seizure seizure seizure 1 Andhra 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pradesh 2 Arunachal 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pradesh 3 Assam 1 9 2 6 3 3 1 3 4 Bihar 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 5 Chhattisgarh 0 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 6 Jharkhand 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 Karnataka 2 9 5 2 3 3 9 4 8 Kerala 0 1 2 1 1 3 3 0 9 Madhya 4 11 3 5 0 5 8 5 Pradesh 10 Maharashtra 4 1 5 3 4 2 10 4 11 Mizoram 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 Orissa 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 13 Rajasthan 0 3 3 1 0 1 0 0 14 Tamil Nadu 1 0 2 2 0 3 4 2 15 Uttarakhand 1 8 1 4 2 0 6 6 16 Uttar Pradesh 1 2 1 1 1 15 5 1 17 West Bengal 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 2 18 Haryana 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 19 Delhi 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 20 Goa 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 21 45 28 25 16 40 50 28

Annexure-III(b)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

Details of elephant mortality for the last three years and current year, as reported by States

Elephant casualties in train accidents

S. No. State 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

1. Assam 8 2 0 2. West Bengal 1 13 2 3. Tamil Nadu 1 0 0 4. Jharkhand 0 1 1 5. Kerala 3 0 0 6. Odisha 0 0 1

7. Tripura 0 1 0 TOTAL 13 17 4

Elephant death due to poaching

S. No. State 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 1. Andhra Pradesh 0 0 0 2. Arunachal Pradesh 0 0 0 3. Assam 4 2 0 4. West Bengal 1 0 0 5. Uttarakhand 0 0 0 6. Uttar Pradesh 0 0 0 7. Tamil Nadu 3 0 1 8. Jharkhand 0 0 1 9. Kerala 4 0 0 10. Odisha 3 17 8 11. Karnataka 3 7 3 12. Nagaland 0 0 0 13. Meghalaya - 0 0 TOTAL 18 26 13

Note: Details of elephant casualties in train accident and poaching deaths have not been collated for 2012-13.

Annexure-III(c)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

Details of lion mortality for the last three years and current year, as reported by the State (Gujarat)

Year Natural Accidental Electrocution Poaching Falling in Self Total death well defence 2009-10 42 2 1 0 1 2 48 2010-11 37 0 1 0 4 0 42 2011-12 41 0 2 0 3 0 46 2012-13 34 1 1 1 1 0 38 (up to October)

Annexure-III(d)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

Details of rhino mortality for the last three years and current year, as reported by States

Sl. State 2009 2010 2011 2012 No. (as on 22.11.2012) Natural Poaching Natural Poaching Natural Poaching Natural Poaching & other & other & other & other causes causes causes causes 1. Assam 64 14 75 8 69 7 96 13 2. West 3 1 2 0 7 0 1 0 Bengal 3. Uttar Nil Nil Nil Nil 3 0 Nil Nil

Pradesh

Annexure-IV

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (c) & (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

Details of funds released to States under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Project Tiger” for the last three years (2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12) and current year (2012-13)

(Rs. in lakhs)

Sl. No. States Release Release Release Release 2009 -10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 (as on 22.11.2012)

1 Andhra Pradesh 138.2540 155.6450 154.4060 404.8904

2 Arunachal Pradesh 64.7100 226.7020 236.7857 420.0872

3 Assam 194.2900 1509.4720 947.5088 123.608

4 Bihar 8.8560 158.3550 172.1930 247.792

5 Chhattisgarh 1383.5020 1813.7250 702.7260 425.5284

6 Jharkhand 117.1386 130.6160 156.3465 82.6878

7 Karnataka 657.0620 1660.0500 1830.6500 708.4337

8 Kerala 311.4200 323.4600 429.7700 411.868

9 Madhya Pradesh 2582.4762 3962.730 5352.710 5357.2446

10 Maharashtra 373.5170 2789.0600 3622.3420 513.941

11 Mizoram 2171.000 187.6900 225.2880 192.9848

12 Orissa 221.7400 815.2900 555.0761 142.956

13 Rajasthan 10694.1700 2368.925 67.210 2943.543

14 Tamil Nadu 258.3540 520.9450 605.9640 323.4878

15 Uttaranchal 246.2050 339.9450 399.7600 89.435

16 Uttar Pradesh 431.5170 407.4600 446.1258 234.508

17 West Bengal 298.7850 502.4800 157.6600 404.916

Total 20,152.997 17,872.391 16,062.522 13,027.9117

Annexure-V

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (c) & (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

Details of funds released under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Development National Parks and Sanctuaries (Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats)” for the last three years (2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12) and current year (2012-13)

(Rs. in lakhs))

Sl. Name of the State/UTs 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 No. (upto 20.11.2012) 1. A& N Islands 85.91 87.872 127.06 109.50 2. Andhra Pradesh 102.02 64.341 71.50 00 3. Arunachal Pradesh 193.14 213.197 168.11 00 4. Assam 114.79 186.63 234.17 146.00 5. Bihar 42.29 19.889 00 64.685 6. Chhattisgarh 851.15 281.966 241.783 348.63 7. Chandigarh 00 12.29 19.98 00 8. Dadra & Nagar Haveli 14.88 00 00 00

9. Goa 71.03 32.879 21.458 148.12 10. Gujarat 426.10 1106.749 1126.589 517.926 11. Haryana 17.22 15.114 28.70 37.60 12. Himachal Pradesh 265.92 253.80 242.1104 318.9688 13. Jammu & Kashmir 375.397 537.336 445.085 426.077 14. Jharkhand 80.267 63.64 64.2615 81.6195 15. Karnataka 566.71 412.252 335.851 309.5835 16. Kerala 432.48 366.786 941.79 330.36 17. Madhya Pradesh 541.98 635.366 506.164 467.707 18. Maharashtra 273.679 343.32 322.391 353.601 19. Manipur 118.31 88.316 86.65 22.41 20. Meghalaya 59.75 58.03 43.80 00 21. Mizoram 186.85 707.763 153.445 00 22. Nagaland 34.115 33.595 30.333 25.855 23. Odisha 390.95 315.331 331.2651 368.2084 24. Punjab 36.26 25.12 00 00 25. Rajasthan 496.746 348.068 291.387 413.00 26. Sikkim 240.93 183.78 131.793 177.579 27. Tamil Nadu 518.67 334.449 256.027 237.66 28. Tripura 13.00 2.84 00 00 29. Uttar Pradesh 274.45 296.179 204.371 263.78 30. Uttarakhand 145.08 134.90 201.144 00 31. West Bengal 381.318 276.385 246.425 164.135 32. Daman & Diu 6.05 00 00 00 TOTAL 7357.442 7438.183 6873.643 5333.005

Annexure-VI

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (c) & (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

Details of funds released under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Elephant for the last three years (2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12) and current year (2012-13)

Sl. Name of the State/UTs 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 No. (as on 20.11.2012) 1. Andhra Pradesh 17.85 15.00 - 11.28 2. Arunachal Pradesh 60.00 10.00 55.00 - 3. Assam 160.26 139.55 200.00 250.00 4. Chhattisgarh 111.22 75.00 150.00 48.00 5. Jharkhand 80.00 80.00 105.87 59.512 6. Karnataka 247.16 300.76 261.83 192.00 7. Kerala 286.70 265.39 282.55 236.00 8. Maharashtra 49.18 29.00 20.29 16.00 9. Meghlaya 80.483 103.838 128.52 - 10. Nagaland 50.00 41.30 25.00 15.00 11. Odisha 100.00 113.50 214.60 168.00 12. Tamil Nadu 358.582 226.879 228.49 200.00 13. Tripura 14.80 - 6.00 5.77 14. Uttar Pradesh 38.45 80.15 49.30 7.27 15. Uttarakhand 221.55 206.82 141.99 125.98 16. West Bengal 207.064 410.206 224.50 66.455 17. Haryana - 100.00 - - TOTAL 2083.299 2197.393 2093.94 1401.267

Annexure-VII

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (c) & (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 501 ON CONSERVATION OF TIGERS AND OTHER WILD ANIMALS DUE FOR REPLY ON 27.11.2012.

Milestone initiatives taken by the Government of India for protection of tigers and other wild animals

Legal steps

1. Amendment of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 making 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.

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. Rapid assessment of tiger reserves done.

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

24. 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.

25. 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.

26. Steps taken for involvement of Non-Governmental Experts in the ongoing all India tiger estimation.

27. Initiatives taken for improving the field delivery through capacity building of field officials, apart from providing incentives.

28. Action initiated for using Information Technology to strengthen surveillance in tiger reserves.

29. 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.

30. The second round of independent assessment of Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves done in 2010-2011 for 39 tiger reserves based on globally used framework.

31. Increase in the allocation for Project Tiger with additional components.

32. Providing special assistance for mitigation of human-tiger conflicts in problematic areas.

33. As an outcome of the fourth Trans-border Consultative Group Meeting held in New Delhi, a joint resolution has been signed with Nepal for biodiversity and tiger conservation.

34. Regional Offices of the National Tiger Conservation Authority sanctioned at Nagpur, Bengaluru and Guwahati.

35. Launching of Phase-IV tiger reserve level monitoring.

*****

Pending of projects for environmental clearance 27th November, 2012

RSQ 502

SHRI RAMA CHANDRA KHUNTIA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that many irrigation projects and mining areas are being kept pending for more than three years in Odisha for want of forest and environment clearance: (b) whether it is a fact that the Bolani Mines in Odisha of SAIL OMDC Mines in Thakhurani area in Kendhujhar District and Bishra Lime Stone and Dolamite Quarry in Sundargarh District have stopped operation for the last six months for mining clearance and thousands of tribal workers have lost their jobs; and; (c) if so, the reasons therefor and the action taken in this regard?

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

(a) to ( c) In Odisha State, 83 irrigation projects have been accorded final forest clearance by the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) from 1980 onwards till date. 26 irrigation project for forest clearance are, at present, under examination with the State Government. There is no project proposal pertaining to irrigation sector pending with MoEF for environment clearance.

As regards Bolani Mines of SAIL, the case for giving environment clearance and proposal for grant of Stage-II approval for diversion of forest land is under examination in MoEF. The proposal for diversion of forest land in respect of OMDC Mines in Thakurani area is pending with the State Government for want of digital global positioning system map of the mining lease. As regards Bishra Lime Stone and Dolamite Quarry in Sundargarh District is concerned, Environmental Clearance has been granted by MoEF and there is no forest land involved in the mining lease.

Protection of leopards 27th November, 2012

RSQ 503

SHRI C. P. NARAYANAN

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

(d) whether it is a fact that inspite of leopards being protected under Wild Life Protection Act, their killing continues unabated and 256 leopards got killed during first nine months of 2012 which means one per day; (e) if so, the reasons therefor; (f) whether it is also a fact that more than half the deaths were due to poaching; (g) whether Government is aware that without a strategy to tackle illegal trade, number of leopard may decline as rapidly as tigers; and (h) if so, the action taken by Government in this regard?

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

(a), (b) & (c) It is a fact that inspite of being protected under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 incidents of death of leopards do come to the notice of this Ministry. However, this Ministry does not have any report of death of 256 leopards during first nine months of 2012.

The cause of death in reported cases include poaching, retaliatory killing by local people, killing by other predators, accidents, electrocution, natural deaths, poisoning, etc. However, this Ministry does not have any report which indicates that more than half the leopard deaths are due to poaching.

(d) & (e) There is no report with the Government indicating a decline in the population of leopards during recent times. However, the 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, other than in accordance with sections 11 and 12, of all the animals listed in Schedules I, II, III and IV of the Act has been prohibited.

ii) Leopard has been included in Schedule I, which affords 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 by the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

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.

FUNDS EARMARKED FOR SCHEDULED CASTE AND TRIBAL SUB PLANS 27th November, 2012

RSQ 504

SHRI AMBETH RAJAN

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

(a) the details of the funds earmarked for Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) and Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) during the last three financial years as per the guidelines issued by Planning Commission vide its letter dated 26December, 2006; (b) if no, such funds were earmarked during the last three years the reasons therefore; (c) whether separate Budget Head has been opened for SCSP and TSP for financial year 2011-12 as mandated by the Department of Expenditure; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) No separate outlays under Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) and Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) were earmarked for Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) till 2010-11. However, the details of Budget Estimates and Expenditure for 2011-12 and Budget Estimates for 2012-13under SCSP and TSPofthe schemes of the Ministry of Environment & Forests are given below: ( crore) S.No. Year Budget Estimates SCSP TSP 1. 2011-12 51.00 15.00 2. 2012-13 53.46 16.00

Schemes / projects of this Ministry are aimed at improving the environment and ecology of the country. Benefits arising out of such improvement / conservation of environment are applicable uniformly to the entire population in a region. It is, therefore, not possible to identify / quantify these benefits into ScheduledCastes / Scheduled Tribes

and the rest. It is also not possible to quantify or earmark these funds exclusively for various sections of the population, given the “public good” nature of environment. Furthermore,the schemes of this Ministry are generally not individual beneficiary oriented in nature, unlike those for poverty alleviation, wage employment, food-for-work, etc. Nevertheless, efforts have been made since 2011-12 to earmark separate outlays under SCSP and TSP.

(c) & (d) Yes Sir, separate Budget Heads have been opened for SCSP and TSP for the financial year 2011-12. Scheme-wise details are furnished below:

Sl. No. Name of Scheme 2011-12 SCSP TSP 1 EnvironmentEducation and Awareness 3435.03.789 --- 2 National Afforestation Programme 2406.04.789 2406.04.796 3 National River Conservation Programme and National 3435.04.789 --- Ganga River Basin Authority 4 Intensification of Forest Management Scheme 3601.03.789 --- 5 Integrated Development of Wild Life Habitats 3601.04.789 3601.04.796 6 Project Tiger 3601.04.789 3601.04.796 7 Project Elephant 3601.04.789 3601.04.796

Cleaning of rivers 4th December, 2012

RSQ *143

SHRI THAAWAR CHAND GEHLOT

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

(a) the details of action plans being implemented by Government for cleaning of Ganga and Yamuna rivers; (b) the details of funds spent, so far, on the cleaning of both these rivers, year-wise till date; and (c) by when the Ganga and Yamuna rivers would be made pollution free?

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. 143 to be answered on Tuesday, the 4th December, 2012 on “Cleaning of rivers” by Shri Thaawar Chand Gahlot.

(a) 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 undertaking pollution abatement activities in the identified polluted stretches of the river Ganga. Of which 69 sewage treatment plants with a capacity to treat 1091 million litres per day (mld) have been created.

In light of experience gained in implementation of the river action plans, 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. Projects amounting to nearly Rs. 2600 crore have been sanctioned so far under the NGRBA for development of sewer networks, sewage treatment plants, electric crematoria, community toilets, development of river fronts, etc in the States of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. Of these, 7 out of 49 sanctioned projects have been completed and remaining projects are in various stages of implementation.

To supplement the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna, the Govt. is providing financial assistance to UP, Delhi and Haryana under 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, at a total of 296 schemes, including 40 sewage treatment plants, have been competed in 21 towns of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi. Sewage treatment capacity of 902.25 mld has been created under these two phases of YAP, of which 415.25 is in U.P., 322 mld is in Haryana and 165 mld is in Delhi.

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. Under the plan, a treatment capacity of 136 mld will be created and existing STPs having treatment capacity of 814 mld will be rehabilitated. 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, under which new treatment capacity of 70 mld will be treated and existing STPs having treatment capacity of 75 mld will be rehabilitated in these two towns.

(b) So far a total expenditure of Rs. 1400 crore (including State share) has been incurred on river Ganga and Rs. 1438.34 crore (including State share) on river Yamuna. A statement giving expenditure incurred in the last three years and current financial years is as follow; Amount in crores Year Expenditure on river Ganga Expenditure on river Yamuna Total 2009-10 50.30 170.91 221.21 2010-11 113.64 198.64 312.28 2011-12 263.36 125.18 388.54 2012-13 153.89 23.38 177.27 Total 581.19 518.11 1099.30

(c) Implementation of river pollution abatement works is ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments under which various schemes of pollution abatement are implemented by the Government. The National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) has decided under Mission Clean Ganga that that no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluents should flow into Ganga by 2020.

Cleaning of Gujarat Coast 4th December, 2012

RSQ *147

SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA

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

(a) whether Government has reimbursed the expenditure incurred on cleaning of the Gujarat coast; (b) if not, the reasons for delay; and (c) the details of action taken against oil companies operating their facilities at Mukta-Panna basin and responsible for the oil spillage?

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. 147 DUE FOR REPLY ON 4.12.2012 RAISED BY SHRI DILIPBHAI PANDYA REGARDING ‘CLEANING OF GUJARAT COAST’.

(a) to (c) As per Government of Gujarat, tar balls were seen on the South Gujarat coast line during July - August, 2009 and an investigation was undertaken. An oil spill had reportedly occurred from the pipeline carrying crude oil at Mutka-Panna field resulting in formation of tar balls.

The Gujarat Pollution Control Board and Gujarat Maritime Board have reportedly spent Rs. 38,11,968/- during 2009 towards cleaning up of the oil spill at Coast. The Government of Gujarat has requested the Ministry of Environment and Forests for reimbursement of the amount spent for clean-up operations.

The details of oil leakages from Mukta-Panna basin during 2009 and 2010, as per the Director General of Hydrocarbons, are as follows:

Incidents of Oil Leakages Year Number Types of Incident Location Quantity Environmental issues/Impact on of of oil Community Incidents leaked (barrels) 2009 1 Oil Leakage Mumbai 3.8 Dispersed due to natural weathering observed from Offshore process during Monsoon swell subsea hose conditions. No impact on environment/ community 2010 1 Leakage in Mukta- Mumbai 6.29 Dispersed due to natural weathering Panna line close to Offshore process. No impact on Panna Platform environment/community 2010 1 Leakage caused due Mumbai 579 Dispersed due to natural weathering to failure of subsea Offshore process. No impact on hose due to failure environment/community of anchor chain of Single Point Mooring

As per the Director General of Hydrocarbons, the only oil leakage reported in 2009 from Mukta-Panna basin was for 3.8 barrels. This was dispersed due to natural weathering process during Monsoon and there was no impact on environment/community. The amount of oil spilled was minimal and did not require any compensation.

Polluted Industrial Clusters 4th December, 2012

RSQ * 150

DR. PRABHAKAR KORE

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

(a) the number of polluted industrial clusters identified by Government in the country during the last three years along with district-wise and State-wise details thereof; (b) whether Government has issued directions for restoration of environmental quality in these areas; and (c) if so, the details thereof?

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 150 DUE FOR REPLY ON 4.12.2012 RAISED BY DR. PRABHAKAR KORE REGARDING POLLUTED INDUSTRIAL CLUSTERS

(a) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in collaboration with Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi had conducted a survey based on Comprehensive Environmental Pollution Index (CEPI) for assessment of pollution load of industrial areas in 88 major industrial clusters in the country. Out of these, 43 industrial clusters have been identified as critically polluted. The list of identified critically polluted industrial clusters with CEPI score is provided at Annexure-I.

(b) & (c) The Ministry of Environment & Forests has imposed a moratorium on 13.1.2010 on grant of environmental clearances for developmental projects in these 43 critically polluted industrial clusters. For restoration of environmental quality in these polluted clusters, State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) were asked

to prepare Action Plans. The Action Plans prepared by SPCBs have been reviewed by CPCB. Based on Action Plans and the initiation of implementation measures the moratorium has been lifted by the Ministry in 26 industrial clusters/areas. ANNEXURE-I

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO 150 DUE FOR REPLY ON 4.12.2012 RAISED BY DR. PRABHAKAR KORE REGARDING POLLUTED INDUSTRIAL CLUSTERS

Critically Polluted Industrial clusters / areas (CEPI Scores >70)

State No. of clusters Industrial clusters / areas CEPI

Andhra Pradesh 2 Vishakha patnam 70.82 Patancheru-Bollaram 70.07 Chhatisgarh 1 Korba 83.00 Delhi 1 Nazafgarh drain basin 79.54 Gujarat 6 Ankaleshwar 88.50 Vapi 88.09 Ahmedabad 75.28 Vatva 74.77 Bhavnagar 70.99 Junagarh 70.82 Haryana 2 Faridabad 77.07 Panipat 71.91 Jharkhand 1 Dhanbad 78.63 Karnataka 2 Mangalore 73.68 Bhadravati 72.33 Kerala 1 Cochin 75.08 Madhya Pradesh 1 Indore 71.26 Maharashtra 5 Chandrapur 83.88 Dombivalli 78.41 Aurangabad 77.44 Navi Mumbai 73.77 Tarapur 72.01 Orissa 3 Angul Talchar 82.09 Ib valley 74.00 Jharsuguda 73.34 Punjab 2 Ludhiana 81.66 Mandi Gobind Garh 75.08 Rajasthan 3 Bhiwadi 82.91 Jodhpur 75.19 Pali 73.73 Tamil Nadu 4 Vellore 81.79 Cuddalore 77.45 Manali 76.32 Coimbatore 72.38 Uttar Pradesh 6 Ghaziabad 87.37 Singrauli 81.73 Noida 78.90 Kanpur 78.09 Agra 76.48 Varanasi-Mirzapur 73.79 West Bengal 3 Haldia 75.43 Howrah 74.84 Asansole 70.20 ***

Protection of ancient herbal plants and birds in forest areas 4th December, 2012

RSQ *157

SHRI PARSHOTTAM KHODABHAI RUPALA

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

(a) the details of action taken by the Central Government in consultation with State Governments to protect ancient and traditional medicinal plants and birds in forest areas, State-wise; (b) the quantum of funds allocated in this regard during the last three years; and (c) whether any programme or scheme has been implemented in Gujarat in this regard?

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 Q. No. 157 scheduled for answer on 04.12.2012 regarding ‘Protection of Ancient Herbal Plants and Birds in Forest Areas’

(a) and (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 (UT) 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 at the State level.

As per the information furnished by the National Medicinal Plants Board, the following schemes have been implemented by it:-

 Central Sector Scheme “Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants”:

The Central Sector Scheme “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 during the last three years is provided in Annexure-I.

 Centrally Sponsored Scheme “National Mission on Medicinal Plants”: Centrally Sponsored Scheme “National Mission on Medicinal Plants” was approved in the year 2008-09. The scheme is primarily aimed at supporting market driven cultivation of medicinal plants on private land with backwards linkages for establishment of nurseries, 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 Rs.8.0 crore to this 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 Gujarat, 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 Gujarat: Funds amounting to total Rs. 492.64 lakhs, Rs. 886.89 lakhs and Rs. 188.55 lakhs during the years 2009- 10, 2010-11, 2011-12 respectively have so far been released for implementation of Central Sector Scheme for "Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants". This also includes grant of Rs. 119.00 lakhs released during 2009-10 for implementation of the programme of “Amla Campaign” in the State of Gujarat. In addition, funds amounting to total Rs. 161.35 lakhs during the year 2009-10 and Rs. 47.35 lakhs during the year 2011-12, respectively have so far been released in favour of Mission Director, Gujarat 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 Gujarat.

ANNEXURE-I REFERRED TO IN ANSWER TO PARTS (A AND B) OF THE STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF RAYJA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *157 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 04.12.2012 REGARDING ‘PROTECTION OF ANCIENT HERBAL PLANTS AND BIRDS IN FOREST AREAS’.

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 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 1. Andhra Pradesh 164.79 84.92 233.11 2. Arunachal Pradesh 95.14 68.19 48.33 3. Assam 334.73 56.65 7.44 4. Bihar 2.00 0 0 5. Chhattisgarh 182.00 2.00 124.98 6. Delhi 26.07 182.55 111.97 7. Goa 0 5.00 4.78 8. Gujarat 492.64 886.89 188.55 9. Haryana 63.03 223.12 47.25 10. Himachal Pradesh 46.50 550.75 326.98 11. Jammu & Kashmir 474.82 59.90 15.75 12. Jharkhand 31.52 36.77 99.67 13. Karnataka 222.67 136.38 116.33 14. Kerala 130.09 372.86 507.49 15. Madhya Pradesh 207.20 323.34 899.37 16. Maharashtra 216.27 93.16 519.39 17. Manipur 22.93 17.63 20.65 18. Meghalaya 12.00 55.00 5.00 19. Mizoram 132.50 25.00 4.99 20. Nagaland 248.00 251.68 139.92 21. Orissa 63.72 37.50 179.62 22. Punjab 0 13.50 0 23. Rajasthan 25.00 577.64 454.65 24. Sikkim 9.50 87.19 322.17 25. Tamil Nadu 48.09 167.02 25.35 26. Tripura 4.50 121.00 51.50 27. Uttar Pradesh 187.46 425.30 200.31 28. Uttarakhand 116.59 88.23 179.03 29. West Bengal 96.30 30.00 3.00 30. Andaman & Nicobar 0 52.71 0 31. Chandigarh 0 5.00 0 32. Pudduchery 0 6.42 0 TOTAL 3656.06 5043.3 4837.58

ANNEXURE-II REFERRED TO IN ANSWER TO PARTS (A AND B) OF THE STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF RAYJA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *157 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 04.12.2012 REGARDING ‘PROTECTION OF ANCIENT HERBAL PLANTS AND BIRDS IN FOREST AREAS’.

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 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 1 Andhra Pradesh 900.00 700.00 512.52 2 Arunachal Pradesh 281.56 58.85 285.14 3 Assam 0 332.80 114.52 4 Bihar 150.00 0 0 5 Chhattisgarh 350.00 0 186.96 6 Gujarat 161.35 0 47.35 7 Haryana 175.70 0 85.46 8 Himachal Pradesh 0.00 106.11 84.30 9 Jammu & Kashmir 294.40 0 0

10 Jharkhand 563.33 165.18 257.61 11 Karnataka 100.00 372.22 0 12 Kerala 131.25 96.14 223.17 13 Madhya Pradesh 0.00 737.58 302.93 14 Maharashtra 0 243.49 327.08 15 Manipur 126.24 0 138.54 16 Meghalaya 306.60 68.50 91.62 17 Mizoram 188.16 124.05 160.12 18 Nagaland 265.70 181.63 181.12 19 Orissa 236.10 166.69 475.58 20 Punjab 0 96.00 0 21 Rajasthan 169.80 100.00 0 22 Sikkim 366.10 4.17 91.10 23 Tamil Nadu 300.00 834.70 961.39 24 Tripura 0.00 0.00 84.00 25 Uttar Pradesh 760.00 0.00 0 26 Uttarakhand 414.11 280.98 262.73 27 West Bengal 684.60 107.54 0.00 TOTAL 6925.00 4776.63 4873.24

ANNEXURE-III REFERRED TO IN ANSWER TO PARTS (C) OF THE STATEMENT IN RESPECT OF RAYJA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *157 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 04.12.2012 REGARDING ‘PROTECTION OF ANCIENT HERBAL PLANTS AND BIRDS IN FOREST AREAS’.

Details of release of funds under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats” during last three years (Rs. In lakhs) Sl. Name of the State/UTs 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 No.

1. A& N Islands 85.91 87.872 127.06 2. Andhra Pradesh 102.02 64.341 71.50 3. Arunachal Pradesh 193.14 213.197 168.11 4. Assam 114.79 186.63 234.17 5. Bihar 42.29 19.889 00 7. Chhattisgarh 851.15 281.966 241.783 8. Chandigarh 00 12.29 19.98 9. Dadra & Nagar Haveli 14.88 00 00 10. Goa 71.03 32.879 21.458 11. Gujarat 426.10 1106.749 1126.589 12. Haryana 17.22 15.114 28.70 13. Himachal Pradesh 265.92 253.80 242.1104 14. Jammu & Kashmir 375.397 537.336 445.085 15. Jharkhand 80.267 63.64 64.2615 16. Karnataka 566.71 412.252 335.851 17. Kerala 432.48 366.786 941.79 18. Madhya Pradesh 541.98 635.366 506.164 19. Maharashtra 273.679 343.32 322.391 20. Manipur 118.31 88.316 86.65 21. Meghalaya 59.75 58.03 43.80 22. Mizoram 186.85 707.763 153.445 23. Nagaland 34.115 33.595 30.333 24. Odisha 390.95 315.331 331.2651 25. Punjab 36.26 25.12 00 26. Rajasthan 496.746 348.068 291.387 27. Sikkim 240.93 183.78 131.793 28. Tamil Nadu 518.67 334.449 256.027 29. Tripura 13.00 2.84 00 30. Uttar Pradesh 274.45 296.179 204.371

31. Uttarakhand 145.08 134.90 201.144 32. West Bengal 381.318 276.385 246.425 33 Daman & Diu 6.05 00 00 TOTAL 7357.442 7438.183 6873.643

Expenditure on environmental protection and afforestation 4th December, 2012

RSQ *159

SHRIMATI SMRITI ZUBIN IRANI:

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

(a) whether it is a fact that in Gujarat 9.18 lakh hectares of land has beencovered under environmental protection and afforestation; (b) the quantum of funds spent on the same by the State Government of Gujarat; (c) whether the Central Government intends to meet at least 50 per cent of the expenditure incurred by Gujarat and other States; and (d) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) to (d) A statement has been laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred to in reply to parts (a), (b), (c) and (d) of Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. *159 by Shrimati Smriti Zubin Irani due for reply on 4.12.2012

(a) and (b) As per the information provided by the State Government of Gujarat, about 8.23 lakh ha area has been covered under afforestation in the State during the last ten years, incurring an investment of Rs. 2510.65 crores.

(c) and (d) The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) provides funds to the States/Union Territories under various afforestation schemes/ programmes as per the availability of budget and requirements of the States/ Union Territories. MoEF is implementing National Afforestation Programme (NAP) since 2000-02 as a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme for tree plantation and eco-restoration of degraded forests and adjoining areas of the country through people’s participation. Since inception of NAP, Rs 2933.50 crores has been released to the Programme States for afforestation works over 18.86 lakh hacters, of which, an amount of Rs. 194.33 crores has been released to Gujarat for afforestation works over 95440 ha. Besides NAP, MoEF also is 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 taking up activities in two identified landscapes.

From the Ministry of Finance, for conservation and development of forests Rs. 5000 crores was recommended under 13th finance commission for five years from the year 2010-11. An amount of Rs. 20.48 crores has been released to Gujarat during 2010-11 and 2011-12. Besides, during 2009-10 under Additional Central Assistancefor Restoration and Regeneration of Forest Cover, an amount of Rs 81.66 crores was released to States of which an amount of Rs 4.3 crores has been released to Gujarat State.

Funds for afforestation are also provided from the Union Government to the Statesincluding Gujarat, under other Centrally Sponsored Schemes like Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), National Bamboo Mission etc. which are implemented by the other Ministries.

Discharge of poisonous water by chemical factories in Haryana 4th December, 2012

RSQ *160

SHRI DARSHAN SINGH YADAV

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the effluent emanating from various types of chemical factories situated at Sonepat and Panipat in Haryana is being discharged directly in the Yamuna river; (b) whether it is also a fact that due to discharge of poisonous water by these chemical factories, the quantity of ammonia in Yamuna water at Delhi has increased as on 1 November, 2012; and (c) whether the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has taken any cognizance of this matter so far?

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) Rajya Sabha Starred Question No. 160 to be answered on Tuesday, the 4th December, 2012 on ‘Discharge of poisonous water by chemical factories in Haryana’ raised by Shri Darshan Singh Yadav.

(a) to (b) The Ministry of Environment & Forests has notified industry specific effluent discharge standards before discharge into ambient water bodies under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 provides for the State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to enforce these standards and to issue necessary directions in case of non-compliance under the Act.

The Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) has reported that all the chemical industries situated in Sonepat 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 CPCB, no chemical industry is discharging waste water directly into river Yamuna.

(c) The CPCB and HPSCB are regularly monitoring jointly the river Yamuna at Sonepat and Panipat. As per the analysis of Yamuna river samples taken in the months of October & November, 2012, there are no reports of increase in ammonia in the river water.

CPCB has not received any complaint on increased level of ammonia in the river water at Delhi on 1st November, 2012. However, CPCB had earlier received the complaints in this regard, and after review, HSPCB were directed to take corrective measures.

Pollution controlling system in factories 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1103

SHRI DARSHAN SINGH YADAV:

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

(a) whether the public and private sector factories are polluting the environment; (b) if so, the names of the plants where pollution controlling systems have been installed and the amount spent thereon; (c) the names of the factories where the pollution controlling systems are yet to be installed; and (d) by when the work for installing it in the remaining factories is likely to be completed?

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

(a)to(d) As per the provisions under the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, pollution control systems are to be installed by the industries. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has identified 3172 number of highly polluting 17 categories of industries in various States/Union Territories. Out of these, 2249 industries are having pollution control devices and complying with the prescribed standards, 596 industries though having pollution control devices are not complying and 327 industries are closed. In case of non-complying industries, appropriate actions are taken by respective State

Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) / Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) either by issuing show-cause notices or by issuing closure directions under the provisions of above said acts.

Poaching of leopards in Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1104

SHRI RAJEEV CHANDRASEKHAR:

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

(i) whether it is a fact that poaching of leopards at Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka was detected recently; (j) if so, the details thereof; and (k) the details of preventive action Government has taken or proposes to take against poaching of leopards and tigers in the reserve?

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

(a)& (b) As per the information received from the State Government of Karnataka, except for one incident on 14.9.2012 in which one leopard was killed outside the forests in snare laid by villagers for controlling wild pig menace, no poaching of leopards has been reported in Bandipur Tiger Reserve.

(c) The Government of Karnataka has taken following measures to prevent poaching of leopards and tigers in Bandipur Tiger Reserve:

1. Establishment of Anti-poaching camps at sensitive places of Bandipur Tiger Reserve. 2. Establishment of Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) to ensure strict protection of tigers and other species. 3. Combing in the fringe areas to detect and remove the snares. 4. Foot patrolling of field staff in the sensitive places. 5. Monsoon patrolling by departmental elephants in sensitive places. 6. Development of intelligence network around the Park to prevent any poaching. 7. Arms and ammunition have been provided to Anti-poaching camp staff and other field staff to prevent and/or control poaching of wildlife. 8. Field staffs are engaged in night patrolling and highway patrolling. 9. Day to day monitoring of the patrolling of field staff by Conservator of Forests at Division level. 10. Establishment of effective communication system by providing wireless walkie- talkies to all the field staff.

Development of portals on green projects 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1105

SHRIMATI T. RATNA BAI SHRI MOHD. ALI KHAN

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

(a) whether Government is developing portals to provide information on green projects; (b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) if not, by when such portals will be developed?

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

(a) to (c) Government has started a portal in 2010 for managing the approval process of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects in the country. The website http://www.cdmindia.gov.in provides, inter alia, information on various aspects of CDM projects including the templates for development of CDM projects, process and stages of approval of projects, details of approved projects and link to other relevant websites. The portal also includes a section on Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) on CDM.

Fresh guidelines on tiger conservation 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1106

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 fresh guidelines on tiger conservation have been notified by Government in view of the directives of the Supreme Court; and (b) if so, the details thereof and its impact on the tourist activities in such areas?

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

(a) & (b) Pursuant to the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the Special Leave to Appeal (Civil) No. 21339/2011 – Ajay Dubey Vs National Tiger Conservation Authority and Others, a set of comprehensive guidelines under section 38-O (1)(c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 for Project Tiger and Tourism in Tiger Reserves, has been notified by the National Tiger Conservation Authority on 15th October, 2012, considering the views of stakeholders. The said guidelines allow regulated tourism in tiger reserves.

International treaty obligations on dismantling of toxic ships 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1107

SHRI N. K. SINGH DR. JANARDHAN WAGHMARE

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

(a) whether Government has taken any steps to ensure environmental protection due to any damage caused by toxic ship-breaking in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) if not, the reasons therefor; (d) whether Government has taken any step for complying with international treaty obligations on dismantling toxic ships; (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) to (c): The Government has taken a number of steps to ensure environmental protection due to any damage caused by ship breaking in the country, which include:

(i) Ship recycling activity in India is regulated as per the directions of Hon’ble Supreme Court given in Writ Petition (Civil) No.657 of 1995. Verification of hazardous materials/wastes on board the ship, by way of inspection of ship, is done at anchoring stage by State Maritime Board, State Pollution Control Board and the Customs Department. Petroleum and Explosive Safety Organisation (PESO) for petroleum tankers/chemicals tankers and Atomic Energy Regulatory Board for war ships, atomic nuclear powered vessels, naval vessels, etc., grant necessary permissions after inspection at anchorage.

(ii) The State Maritime Boards issue beaching permission as per the laid down procedure. The following certification/clearances are required prior to issue of breaking permissions for any ship by the State Maritime Board:

(a) Gas free certificate being issued by the Inspector of Explosives. (b) Decontamination Certificate from State Pollution Control Board. (c) License issued by Directorate of Industrial Safety and Health, State Government.

(d) to (f): In May, 2009, IMO has adopted the Hong Kong International Convention on Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships. The Government of India has not yet ratified the Convention.

DATA ON BLACK CARBON EMISSION 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1108

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENTAND FORESTS be pleased to state:

(a) whether there exists any data base showing the emission of black carbon by different developing nations; (b) the percentage of black carbon emission India contributes to the total emission globally; and (c) the names of other developing nations which have brought black carbon emission under the ambit of UN framework conventions?

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

(a) and (b) Scientific studies conducted in India measured the ambient concentration of black carbon. However, no specific studies have been conducted showing the contribution of black carbon by India to the total emission globally.

(c) Black carbon is not included in the basket of Green House Gases of Kyoto Protocol under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Accordingly, black carbon is not required to be brought under the UNFCCC by any country including developing nations.

DIVERSION OF CONSERVATION FUNDS IN JHARKHAND 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1109

SHRI PARIMAL NATHWANI

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

(a) the details of funds sanctioned to Jharkhand to carry out protection, conservation and regeneration of natural resources during the last three years; (b) whether these funds have been utilised by the State Government; (c) whether instances of diversion of funds by the State Government have come to the notice of the Central Government; and (d) 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 provides funding to the States, including Jharkhand, under various Plan schemes. The details with regard to funds sanctioned by the Ministry, and their utilization bythe State Government of Jharkhand to carry out protection, conservation and regeneration of natural resources during the last three years is given inAnnex.

(c) No, Sir. (d) Does not arise.

Annex referred to in Parts (a) and (b) of the reply to RajyasabhaUnstarredQuestion No. 1109 regarding “Diversion of Conservation Funds in Jharkhand” asked by ShriParimalNathwani, Member of Parliament, for answer on 4.12. 2012: (Rs. Lakh) Sl Name of 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 . Scheme/ Diver Diver Diver Fund Fun Detail Fund Fun Detail Fund Fun Detail N Progra sion sion sion s ds s of s ds s of s ds s of o. mme of of of Rele Utili Diver Rele Utili Diver Rele Utili Diver Fund Fund Fund ased sed sion ased sed sion ased sed sion s s s Integrate d Develop 96.2 58.8 57.8 1. 80.27 Nil N.A. 63.64 Nil N.A. 64.26 Nil N.A. ment of 4 5 4 Wildlife Habitats Intensifi cation of 260.1 104. 150.9 173. 400.0 298. 2. Forest Nil N.A. Nil N.A. Nil N.A. 4 00 5 14 8 99 Manage ment Project 117.1 141. 130.6 130. 156.3 141. 3. Nil N.A. Nil N.A. Nil N.A. Tiger 4 38 2 46 5 56 Project 80.0 80.0 105.8 105. 4. 80.00 Nil N.A. 80.00 Nil N.A. Nil N.A. Elephant 0 0 7 87 National Afforest 2106. 1870 873.0 618. 1042. 649. 5. ation Nil N.A. Nil N.A. Nil N.A. 00 .00 0 00 00 00 Program me N.A. Not Applicable.

HIGH LEVEL OF POLLUTION AT GANGA RIVER 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1110

DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA:

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

(a) whether level of fecal Coliforms is found to be exceeding the maximum permissible limits of 2500 MPN per 100 million litres at many of the monitoring stations along Ganga river, except upstream of Haridwar; (b) whether against total wastewater generation of around 3000 million litres per day by the towns along river Ganga, the sewage treatment capacity of 1055 mld only has been created so far under Ganga Action Plan; (c) if so, whether Ganga water at Haridwar, Garhmukteshwar, Prayag and Varanasi is even unfit for taking bath; and (d) by when the Ganga river could be made pollution free which is at present going at a slow pace?

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

(a) The water quality of river Ganga is monitored by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) from Gangotri (Uttarakhand) to Diamond Harbour (West Bengal) at 57 locations. Based on the assessment of water quality data provided by CPCB, it is observed that Faecal Coliform is not meeting the criteria at Garhmukteshwar and most of the monitoring locations from Kanpur Downstream onwards upto Diamond Harbour in West Bengal.

(b) As per present estimates, nearly 2723 million litres of sewage is generated everyday along Ganga River. So far, a capacity to treat 1091 million litres per day (mld) has been created in these towns under Ganga Action Plan.

(c) The water quality of river Ganga at Haridwar, Garhmukteshwar, Prayag and Varanasi meets the criteria with respect to Dissolved Oxygen (DO) as prescribed for bathing. However the river water does not meet the bathing criteria with respect to Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) during certain parts of the year.

(d) 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. The NGRBA resolved that under Mission Clean Ganga, no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluents shall flow into Ganga by 2020.

BAN ON FIELD TRIALS OF GM CROPS 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1111

SHRI D.RAJA SHRI M.P.ACHUTHAN

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

(a) whether it is a fact that a Technical Experts Committee (TEC) appointed by the Supreme Court has recommended for a ban on all field trials of genetically modified (GM) crops in the country; and (b) if so, the details thereof and Government’s reaction thereto?

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

(a) & (b)A Technical Expert Committee (TEC) was constituted vide Hon’ble Supreme Court Order dated 10.5.2012 in Writ Petition (Civil) No. 260/2005 in the matter of Aruna Rodrigues & Others vs Union of India & Others to address issues related to genetically modified (GM) crop field trials. The TEC has submitted its interim report on 9.10.2012. TEC 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 is of the view that the interim report is scientifically flawed; 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 and therefore cannot be accepted. A Joint Affidavit in this regard has been filed by the Agriculture Ministry 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 matter is subjudice.

Further steps will be taken after the final decision of the Hon’ble Supreme Court.

NAGOYA PROTOCOL ON ACCESS AND BENEFIT SHARING 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1112

SHRI NAND KUMAR SAI

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

(a) whether Government has finalized the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing by India in the recent past; (b) if so, the details thereof and salient features thereof; (c) the names of the countries which have so far ratified the said protocol; (d) whether India has been a victim of misappropriation or biopiracy of our genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge; and (e) if so, the extent to which such victimization will be checked after ratification of Nagoya Protocol by India?

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

(a) to (c) Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) is a new international treaty adopted under the auspices of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Nagoya, Japan in October, 2010, after six years of intense negotiations. As a megadiverse country rich in biodiversity and associated traditional knowledge, and with a rapidly advancing biotechnology industry, India has contributed effectively in ABS negotiations. The objective of the Nagoya Protocol is the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources, including by appropriate access to genetic resources and by appropriate transfer of relevant technologies. The Nagoya Protocol provides a transparent legal framework on how researchers and companies can obtain access to genetic resources, and how benefits arising from the use of such material or knowledge will be shared. India has signed the Nagoya Protocol on 11.5.2011 and ratified it on 09.10.2012. The number of signatories to the Protocol is 92, and so far nine countries have ratified the Protocol. These are Seychelles, Rwanda, Gabon, Jordan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Mexico, India, Fiji and Ethiopia.

(d) & (e) There have been several instances of misappropriation of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge from the country, despite having taken necessary action at the national level. Once the Nagoya Protocol enters into force, the user country measures enshrined in it would oblige all Parties to provide that users of genetic resources within their jurisdiction respect the domestic regulatory framework of Parties from where genetic resources have been accessed, thereby addressing the concerns of misappropriation.

ASSISTANCE FOR EXTINGUISHING FIRE DURING SUMMER IN UTTARAKHAND 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1113

SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA

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

(a) the financial assistance extended by the Ministry during the financial year 2009 to 2012 to the State Government of Uttarakhand and non-Governmental Organisations for their efforts for extinguishing fire which breaks out during the summer season in the State; (b) whether results were positive; and (c) if not, the steps likely to be taken by the Ministry?

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

(a) Financial Assistance to Government of Uttarakhand during financial year 2009-12 for forest fire control and management is annexed. No funds have been given to any Non-Governmental Organisations for this activity.

(b) & (c) The financial assistance provided by the Ministry for fire protection in the state of Uttarakhand is used for financing fire management and control activities like creation and maintenance of fire line, control burning, setting up fire crew station, purchase and hiring of vehicle for transportation of fire fighting team, engaging fire watchers, strengthening Master Control Room and purchase and maintenance of wireless equipments for establishing and strengthening communication network. The financial assistance provided by the Ministry is of great help for controlling and managing forest fire in the state, however, the amount made available falls short of the actual requirement, to effectively manage and combat forest fire.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1113 DUE FOR REPLY ON 04.12.2012 REGARDING ASSISTANCE FOR EXTINGUISHING FIRE DURING SUMMER IN UTTARAKHAND

Details of financial assistance to Government of Uttarakhand during the FY 2009-12

(Rs. in lakhs) Year Released 2009-10 317.20 2010-11 134.57 2011-12 245.38

SPEEDY ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE OF PROJECTS 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1114

SHRI BAISHNAB PARIDA

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 in Odisha that are awaiting approval for environment clearance; and (f) the time-frame within which these projects would be cleared and approvals will be conveyed to the Odisha Government?

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

(a) to (d): The Ministry of Environment & Forests has no proposal to constitute a board to speed up environmental clearance of various projects in the country.

(e) & (f) 58 Projects relating to the State of Odisha are pending for environment clearance in the Ministry of Environment & Forests. These projects are at various stages of processing as per the provisions under the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, as amended from time to time.

INTER-MINISTERIAL GROUP ON GANGA RIVER MANAGEMENT 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1115

DR. K.P. RAMALINGAM

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government has constituted an inter-Ministerial group to decide issues relating to the Ganga river; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that the said inter-Ministerial group in its meeting held in July, 2012 discussed the reports and presentations made by various agencies; (d) whether it is also a fact that Government is considering to make a plan for the management of Ganga river; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) Yes, Sir. The Government has constituted an Inter-Ministerial Group vide Office Memorandum dated 15th June, 2012 of Ministry of Environment & Forests. The terms of reference of the Inter-Ministerial Group are as follows:-

i. To facilitate cooperation with government agencies for early completion of the study being conducted by the consortium of IITs for preparing a Ganga River Basin Management Plan. ii. Pending finalization of the Ganga River Basin Management Plan, to consider and make recommendations on the following short-term measures in the upper reaches of the river Ganga on the basis of available reports, within three months.

 To suggest environmental flow requirement that could be prescribed for various stretches of Bhagirathi, Alaknanda and other tributaries of river Ganga, taking into account suggestions in the reports prepared by the IIT Roorkee, Wild Life Institute of India and any other available report on the subject that the group wishes to consider.  To examine how best to make the suggested flows applicable to projects currently in operation, taking into account, inter alia, its impact on tariff.  To make a review of the environmental impacts of projects that are proposed on Bhagirathi, Alaknanda and other tributaries of river Ganga and recommend necessary remedial action.

The Inter-Ministerial group has been constituted under the Chairmanship of Shri B. K. Chaturvedi, Member, Planning Commission, with the following members:-

i. Shri J. M. Mauskar, former Special Secretary, MoEF and nominee representative of the Ministry of Environment & Forests. ii. Representative of the Ministry of Power iii. Representative of Ministry of Water Resources iv. Representative of Central Electricity Authority v. Representative of Central Water Commission vi. Representative of Wild Life Institute of India vii. Representative of IIT Roorkee viii. Representative of Government of Uttarakhand ix. Chairperson/Member Secretary, Central Pollution Control Board x. Dr. Veer Bhadra Mishra, Expert Member, NGRBA xi. Shri Rajendra Singh, Expert Member, NGRBA xii. Ms. Sunita Narain, Expert Member, NGRBA xiii. Mission Director, National Mission Clean Ganga, Ministry of Environment & Forests – Member Convener.

(c) In the first meeting held on 26th July, 2012, the reports of AHEC, IIT Roorkee on ‘Assessment of Cumulative Impact of Hydropower Projects in Alaknanda and Bhagirathi Basins’ were discussed. The IMG also considered a presentation made by coordinator, IIT consortium which is preparing Ganga Basin Management Plan.The Committee has so far met 4 times and its term has been extended till 31st January, 2013 with enlarged terms of reference for taking into account the representations made by various people and to suggest innovative technologies for pollution control.

(d) & (e) Government has commissioned a consortium of seven IITs for preparation of the Ganga River Basin Management Plan (GRBMP) through signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the Ministry and the

IITs consortium on 06.07.2010. The plan would take into consideration the requirements of water and energy in the Ganga Basin, to accommodate increase population, urbanization, industrialization and agriculture while ensuring the fundamental aspects of conservation of river system. The IITs consortium has so far submitted 23 reports under the GRBMP.

ENCROACHMENT OF FOREST LAND IN ASSAM 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1116

SHRI BIRENDRA PRASAD BAISHYA

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

(a) whether Government has taken into account the sustainability of wild life sanctuaries and National Parks in Assam particularly the Kaziranga National Park (KNP), a World Heritage Site, threatened due to the occurrence of large encroachments for years; (b) if so, the details thereof and the year-wise details of the land area encroached during last three years till date, National Park-wise and wildlife sanctuary-wise; and (c) the details of measures taken by Government for protection of the land area of KNP from encroachment and other natural land degradation process?

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

(a) & (b) As informed by the State, there is no encroachment within the Kaziranga National Park (429.93 sq.km.), which is also the World Heritage Site. However, subsequent additions to the said National Park area do have encroachments, apart from several National Parks/Wildlife Sanctuaries in the State. The details are at Annexure-I.

(c) Under the ongoing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger, funding assistance is provided to the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, which, interalia, includes protection and conservation of wildlife and its habitat.

Annexure-I

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) & (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1116 ON ENCROACHMENT OF FOREST LAND IN ASSAM DUE FOR REPLY ON 04.12.2012.

Status of encroachment in areas subsequently added to the Kaziranga National Park (429.93 sq.km.), as reported by the State/Regional Office of National Tiger Conservation Authority, Guwahati

Sl. Subsequent area additions to the Area under encroachment No. National Park (Approx.) in ha.

1. First area addition -Nil- 2. Second area addition 202.16 3. Third area addition 69.76 4. Fourth area addition -Nil- 5. Fifth area addition 79.61 6. Sixth area addition Assessment of encroachment has not been reported by the State. Number of cattle sheds exist.

Details of encroachment in the National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Assam (as reported by the State)

Sl. No. Name of National Parks and Wildlife Area of encroachment Sanctuaries (Approx.) in sq.km.

1. Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary 28.5

2. 21.00 3. Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary 4.00 4. Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary 85.00 5. Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary 6.00 6. Dibru Saikhowa National Park 3.00 7. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary 2.00 8. 17.00 9. 2.50 10. Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary 7.00

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO MAHAN COAL BLOCK IN MADHYA PRADESH 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1117

SHRI KANWAR DEEP SINGH

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

(a) whether Government recently cleared the Mahan Coal Block in Madhya Pradesh for captive use; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether all environmental concerns, that existed, have been addressed; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d) Ministry of Environment and Forests has accorded environmental clearance to Mahan Open Cast Coal Mining Project of M/s Mahan Open Cast Coal Company Ltd. in Madhya Pradesh. Environmental concerns were discussed in the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) meeting and the environmental clearance was granted with general & specific conditions.

Ministry of Environment and Forests has also accorded Stage –I approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of 967.65 hectares of forest land in favour of M/s. Mahan Coal Limited for mining of coal in Mahan Coal block located in Singrauli Coalfield in Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh subject to fulfillment of conditions.

STUDY ON RISING POLLUTION LEVEL IN THE RIVERS 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1118

SHRI DARSHAN SINGH YADAV

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

(a) whether the Pollution Control Research Institute has carried out or proposes to carry out a comprehensive study on the rising pollution levels in the rivers Yamuna, Ganga, Saraswati and others respectively; (b) if so, the outcome thereof particularly in relation to the Yamuna river and the recommendation made in the said study report; (c) the reaction of Government thereto; and (d) the effective steps being taken by Government to check rising pollution in rivers particularly in relation to the Yamuna river?

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

(a) As per information received from the Pollution Control Research Institute, Haridwar, they have not carried out any comprehensive study on the rising pollution levels in Yamuna, Ganga, Saraswati and other rivers.

(b) & (c) Question does not arise.

(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 in various rivers under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) by providing financial assistance to the concerned State Governments. The NRCP presently covers polluted stretches of 41 major rivers, including Yamuna and Ganga, in 191 towns spread over 20 States. Pollution abatement schemes implemented under the Plan include interception, diversion and treatment of sewage; low cost sanitation works; crematoria; river front development, etc. An expenditure of Rs. 5442.42 crore (including State share) has been incurred till end of June, 2012 and sewage treatment capacity of 4704 mld (million litres per day) has been created under the Plan so far.

This Ministry is supporting the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna by providing financial assistance to UP, Delhi and Haryana under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP), which is a part of NRCP, in a phased manner since 1993. 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 and expenditure of Rs. 1438.34 crore (including State share) has been incurred till end of June, 2012. 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 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.

Forest cover in India 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1119

DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA

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

(a) the details of the forest cover of India in 1947 and at present, in hectares and in percentage, State-wise; (b) the status of decrease or increase in forest cover, during the past two forest census, State-wise; (c) the details of work done for afforestation during the last three years State-wise; (d) the number of trees uprooted for expansion of National Highways and number of new trees planted to compensate, so far; and (e) the steps being taken by Government to get them implanted?

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

(a) The forest cover mapping in the country has been carried out by Forest Survey of India, Dehradun and the first report of which was published in 1987. Hence, the details of forest cover of India in 1947 are not available. The details of total area of forest cover in hectare as well as percentage of forest cover in the country, State- wise as per India State of Forest Report-2011 is given in Annexure-I.

(b) The status of decrease or increase in forest cover, during the past two forest census, state-wise is given in Annexure-II.

(c) The Ministry of Environment and Forests is providing funds to the States under Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Afforestation Programme (NAP) Scheme for regeneration of degraded forests and adjoining areas in the country through people’s participation. 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 level.The details of State-wise area approved under NAP Scheme during last three years (2009-10 to 2011- 12) are given in Annexure-III.

(d)& (e) The Central Government grant permission for diversion of Forest Land under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for various non-forestry purposes including expansion of National Highways. The permission granted includes permission to fell trees standing on the forest land with a condition that the tree felling, shall be limited to bare minimum and also prescribes compensatory afforestation at the cost of User Agencies. The State/Union Territory Governments permit the felling of only those trees which are absolutely necessary. The details of trees felled and the number of new trees planted in lieu of that is not maintained in the Ministry. The State Governments undertake compensatory afforestation in lieu of the diverted forest land’.

Annexure I

Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) of the RajyaSabhaUnstarred Question No. 1119 due for answer on 04-12-2012 regarding ‘Forest Cover in India’

Forest cover in States/UTs in India as per India State of Forest Report, 2011

(area in hectare) State/UT Geog. Forest Cover in 2011 Area Very Moderately Open Total % of GA Dense Dense Forest Forest Forest Andhra Pradesh 27506900 85000 2624200 1929700 4638900 16.86 Arunachal Pradesh 8374300 2086800 3151900 1502300 6741000 80.50 Assam 7843800 144400 1140400 1482500 2767300 35.28 Bihar 9416300 23100 328000 333400 684500 7.27 Chhattisgarh 13519100 416300 3491100 1660000 5567400 41.18 Delhi 148300 700 4900 12000 17600 11.87 Goa 370200 54300 58500 109100 221900 59.94 Gujarat 19602200 37600 523100 901200 1461900 7.46 Haryana 4421200 2700 45700 112400 160800 3.64 Himachal Pradesh 5567300 322400 638100 507400 1467900 26.37 Jammu & Kashmir 22223600 414000 876000 963900 2253900 10.14 Jharkhand 7971400 259000 991700 1047000 2297700 28.82 Karnataka 19179100 177700 2017900 1423800 3619400 18.87 Kerala 3886300 144200 939400 646400 1730000 44.52 Madhya Pradesh 30824500 664000 3498600 3607400 7770000 25.21 Maharashtra 30771300 873600 2081500 2109500 5064600 16.46 Manipur 2232700 73000 615100 1020900 1709000 76.54 Meghalaya 2242900 43300 977500 706700 1727500 77.02 Mizoram 2108100 13400 608600 1289700 1911700 90.68 Nagaland 1657900 129300 493100 709400 1331800 80.33 Orissa 15570700 706000 2136600 2047700 4890300 31.41 Punjab 5036200 0 73600 102800 176400 3.50 Rajasthan 34223900 7200 444800 1156700 1608700 4.70 Sikkim 709600 50000 216100 69800 335900 47.34 Tamil Nadu 13005800 294800 1032100 1035600 2362500 18.16 Tripura 1048600 10900 468600 318200 797700 76.07 Uttar Pradesh 24092800 162600 455900 815300 1433800 5.95 Uttarakhand 5348300 476200 1416700 556700 2449600 45.80 West Bengal 8875200 298400 464600 536500 1299500 14.64 A&N Islands 824900 376100 241600 54700 672400 81.51 Chandigarh 11400 100 1000 600 1700 14.91 Dadra & Nagar 49100 0 11400 9700 21100 42.97 Haveli Daman & Diu 11200 0 62 553 600 5.36 Lakshadweep 3200 0 1718 988 2700 84.37 Puducherry 48000 0 3537 1469 5000 10.42 Grand Total 328726300 8347100 32073600 28782000 69202700 21.05

Annexure II Annexure referred to in reply to part (b) of the RajyaSabhaUnstarred Question No. 1119 due for answer on 04-12-2012 regarding ‘Forest Cover in India’

Comparison of Forest cover in States/UTs in India between 2009 and 2011 assessments

(Area in sq Km) Assessment 2011

State/UT Geog. Very Mod. Open Total Forest cover Forest cover Area Dense Dense Forest Forest 2009 as change Forest Forest Cover Revised between 2009 and 2011 Assessment Andhra Pradesh 27506 850 26242 19297 46389 46670 -281 9 Arunachal Pradesh 83743 20868 31519 15023 67410 67484 -74 Assam 78438 1444 11404 14825 27673 27692 -19 Bihar 94163 231 3280 3334 6845 6804 41 Chhattisgarh 13519 4163 34911 16600 55674 55678 -4 1 Delhi 1483 7 49 120 176 177 0 Goa 3702 543 585 1091 2219 2212 7 Gujarat 19602 376 5231 9012 14619 14620 -1 2 Haryana 44212 27 457 1124 1608 1594 14 Himachal Pradesh 55673 3224 6381 5074 14679 14668 11 Jammu & Kashmir 22223 4140 8760 9639 22539 22537 2 6 Jharkhand 79714 2590 9917 10470 22977 22894 83 Karnataka 19179 1777 20179 14238 36194 36190 4 1 Kerala 38863 1442 9394 6464 17300 17324 -24 Madhya Pradesh 30824 6640 34986 36074 77700 77700 0 5 Maharashtra 30771 8736 20815 21095 50646 50650 -4 3 Manipur 22327 730 6151 10209 17090 17280 -190 Meghalaya 22429 433 9775 7067 17275 17321 -46 Mizoram 21081 134 6086 12897 19117 19183 -66 Nagaland 16579 1293 4931 7094 13318 13464 -146 Orissa 15570 7060 21366 20477 48903 48855 48 7 Punjab 50362 0 736 1028 1764 1664 100 Rajasthan 34223 72 4448 11567 16087 16036 51 9 Sikkim 7096 500 2161 698 3359 3359 0 Tamil Nadu 13005 2948 10321 10356 23625 23551 74 8 Tripura 10486 109 4686 3182 7977 7985 -8 Uttar Pradesh 24092 1626 4559 8153 14338 14341 -3 8 Uttarakhand 53483 4762 14167 5567 24496 24495 1 West Bengal 88752 2984 4646 5365 12995 12994 1 A&N Islands 8249 3761 2416 547 6724 6662 62 Chandigarh 114 1 10 6 17 17 0 Dadra & Nagar 491 0 114 97 211 211 0

Haveli Daman & Diu 112 0 0.62 5.53 6 6 0 Lakshadweep 32 0 17.18 9.88 27 26 1 Puducherry 480 0 35.37 14.69 50 50 0 Grand Total 32872 83471 320736 28782 692027 692,394 -367 63 0

Annexure III Annexure referred to in reply to part (c) of the RajyaSabhaUnstarred Question No. 1119 due for answer on 04-12-2012 regarding ‘Forest Cover in India’

State-wise approved area under National Afforestation Programme during last three years S.No. State Area in hactares 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 1 Andhra Pradesh 4182 2341 5453 2 Bihar 3475 0 5647 3 Chattisgarh 8450 1177 8370 4 Goa 0 0 0 5 Gujarat 4920 1760 11150 6 Haryana 5526 1100 3145 7 Himachal Pradesh 1255 1646 2566 8 Jammu & Kashmir 3550 0 4857 9 Jharkhand 9980 0 4815 10 Karnataka 2200 0 9523 11 Kerala 1095 666 2947 12 Madhya Pradesh 6188 13000 10219 13 Maharashtra 7219 0 7934 14 Orissa 1745 0 7410 15 Punjab 547 0 625 16 Rajasthan 6800 400 3300 17 Tamil Nadu 4025 0 2984 18 Uttar Pradesh 9664 3340 12435 19 Uttarakhand 4065 5167 5058 20 West Bengal 615 2815 2360 Total (Other States) 85501 33412 110798 21 Arunachal Pradesh 1750 3125 0 22 Assam 3625 0 0 23 Manipur 1525 3599 4250 24 Meghalaya 800 4800 3930 25 Mizoram 2700 2370 2600 26 Nagaland 4050 2000 8000 27 Sikkim 2225 1549 3730 28 Tripura 1380 6271 6220 Total (NE States) 18055 23714 28730 TOTAL 103556 57126 139528

SOLAR SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1120

SHRIMATI JAYA BACHCHAN

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

(a) whether it is a fact that a solar surveillance system has been installed at the Corbett National park to detect sand and stone miners as well as the poachers; (b) whether it is also a fact that such a system is being planned to be installed at other such vulnerable places, bird sanctuaries/national parks etc; and (c) the details of response of the State Governments in this regard and the likely expenditure to be involved?

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.

PROJECTS PENDING FOR ENVIRONMENT CLEARANCE 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1121

DR. T.N. SEEMA

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

(a) the details of the major developmental projects viz: irrigation, power, housing, mining, etc. pending with the Ministry for clearance. State and Union Territory-wise at present; (b) the reasons for the pendency along with the period since when these are pending, project-wise; (c) the number of projects cleared during each of the last three years and the current year, State-wise and Union Territory-wise; (d) the number of projects rejected during the above period, State and Union Territory-wise along with the reasons therefor; and (e) the steps taken by Government for early clearance of pending projects in the country?

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

(a) and (b): The State-wise details of project proposals pending for environment clearance in the Ministry are at Annexure-1. The reasons for pendency of environment clearances include non-submission of requisite information by the project proponents, forestry and wildlife issues, etc.

(c) and (d) : The State-wise details of project proposals for which environment clearances were issued and number of cases rejected during the last three years and the current year are at Annexure-2. The reasons for rejection of environment clearance cases include non-suitable sites, non-submission of requisite information etc.

(e): In order to facilitate an early decision on proposal for environmental clearance, various steps have been initiated by the Ministry which include (i) continuous monitoring of the status of pending projects, (ii) regular and longer duration meeting of Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) meeting 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. Annexure- 1 State-wise details of project proposals pending for Environmental Clearance

S.N Name of the Industr Therma River valley/ Infrastructur Coal Non- Nuclea Total . State/UT y l Hydroelectri e/ Min coal r Number c Construction/ e Min of CRZ e proposal s pending for ECs 1 Andhra 25 1 - 3 - 8 - 37 Pradesh 2 A & N - - - 1 - - - 1 3 Arunachal - - 1 - - - - 1 Pradesh 4 Assam 4 - - 14 - - - 18 5 Bihar 1 ------6 Chandigarh 1 ------1 7 Chhattisgar 1 4 - - 13 5 - 23 h 8 Dadar 2 - - 1 - - - 3 Nagar Haveli 9 Daman & ------Diu 10 Delhi ------11 Goa - - - - - 1 - 1 12 Gujarat 36 3 - 12 - 4 - 49 13 Haryana 1 - - 2 - 1 1 5 14 Himachal - - 4 2 - 6 - 12 Pradesh 15 Jammu & - - 2 1 - - - 3 Kashmir 16 Jharkhand 5 - 6 20 17 - 48 17 Karnataka 6 1 2 2 - 4 - 15 18 Kerala 1 - - 4 - - - 5 19 Madhya 2 3 1 5 4 10 - 25 Pradesh 20 Maharashtr 10 3 2 21 5 9 - 50 a 21 Manipur - - 1 - - - - 2 22 Meghalaya 1 - - - - 1 - 2 23 Mizoram - - - 1 - - - 1 24 Nagaland ------25 Lakshdweep - - - 1 - - - 1 26 Pondicherry - - - 1 - - - 1 27 Orissa 10 2 - 15 11 27 - 64 28 Punjab 6 - - 5 - - - 11 29 Rajasthan 4 - - 5 3 35 1 48 30 Sikkim - - 1 - - - - 1 31 Tamil Nadu 7 3 - 5 - 2 - 17 32 Tripura ------33 Uttarakhan 3 - 2 16 - 7 - 28 d 34 Uttar 3 4 - 8 - - - 15 Pradesh 35 West Bengal 6 ------6 Total 134 24 16 130 56 137 2 499

Annexure 2 State-wise details of project proposals cleared/rejected during the last three years and the current year

2012 -13 (upto Name of 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Sl.No. October 2012) State/UT Cleared Rejected Cleared Rejected Cleared Rejected Cleared Rejected 1 Andhra 91 62 44 38 Pradesh 2 A & N 3 1 2 3 Arunachal 2 3 5 3 Pradesh 4 Assam 16 9 18 21 5 Bihar 7 8 18 1 4 6 Chandigarh 25 1 1 7 Chhattisgarh 20 29 23 10 8 Dadar 1 6 1 Nagar Haveli 9 Daman & 5 2 1 1 Diu 10 Delhi 1 2 1 11 Goa 30 8 12 Gujarat 163 57 38 28 13 Haryana 3 3 18 7 14 Himachal 9 7 6 2 Pradesh 15 Jammu & 4 3 3 2 Kashmir 16 Jharkhand 29 28 32 13 17 Karnataka 50 24 1 24 17 18 Kerala 6 29 18 12 19 Madhya 34 16 21 19 Pradesh 20 Maharashtra 103 46 34 1 13 2 21 Manipur 1 22 Meghalaya 4 4 3 1 23 Mizoram 1 24 Nagaland 25 Lakshdweep - - - - 26 Pondicherry 1 1 2 27 Orissa 55 36 30 33 28 Punjab 7 18 17 13 29 Rajasthan 48 36 18 18 30 Sikkim 1 1 1 31 Tamil Nadu 28 30 36 25 32 Tripura 1 1 33 Uttarakhand 12 5 1 16 4 34 Uttar 12 2 10 27 Pradesh 35 West 37 21 19 16 Bengal Others 8 2 2 4 Total 812 - 496 2 466 2 338 2

POLLUTION BY INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENTS IN MADHYA PRADESH 4th December, 2012

RSQ 1122

CHAUDHARY MUNABBAR SALEEM

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

(a) the details of the complaints received during the last ten years against different industrial establishments for polluting the Betwa river and ground water of Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh along with their names; (b) the action taken on those complaints; (c) whether any action has been taken against the polluting industrial establishments; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d) As reported by the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board (MPPCB), the details of the complaints received during the last ten years and the action taken by the Board are given at Annexure. The water quality of river Betwa is being regularly monitored by the MPPCB at various locations including at intake well Raisen.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (A) TO (D) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARED QUESTION NO. 1122 DUE FOR REPLY ON 4.12.2012 REGARDING POLLUTION BY INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENTS IN MADHYA PRADESH RAISED BY SHRI CHAUDHARY MUNABBAR SALEEM

S.No. Name of Complaint Main subject of Action taken against complaint & Complainant received from complaint Inference and Date 1 Dr. Yash Hon’ble Regarding With reference to complaint, an R.Sampat Minister, Deptt. pollution in Betwa inspection was carried out by the of Housing & River by M/s Som Board Officers and it was observed 19.02.2003 Environment Distilleries Limited that the treated wastewater was being stored in the lagoons during the rainy season and used for land application and other purposes during winter and summer. No discharge of wastewater outside the factory premised was observed. 2 News published Complaint Regarding With reference to the pollution news in Hindustan received in pollution in Betwa flash in the news papers, the Board Times News MPPCB Head River by various took cognizance of the same and Paper on office industries of after due inspection, notices and 07.01.2003 Mandideep directions were issued to defaulting industries for corrective measures. 3 News published Head office Regarding damage in Nav Bharat of crops of Village News Paper on Sirkia Tehsil- 23.12.2002 Goharganj by various industries of Mandideep 4 News published Head office Regarding damage in Dainik Jagran of crops near News Paper on Bhojpur & 16.12.2007 Mandideep by various industries of Mandideep

TIGER AND ELEPHANT PROJECTS IN ODISHA 11th December, 2012

RSQ *244

SHRIMATI RENUBALA PRADHAN

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

(a) the number of elephants and tigers in the country as per the latest census, State-wise; (b) the years in which the latest census and the previous census was conducted; (c) whether population of tigers and elephants has increased; (d) the number of elephants and tigers killed during the last three years and reasons therefor; (e) whether Government has any proposal to declare more number of tiger and elephant projects in Odisha; and (f) the number of tiger and elephant projects functioning in Odisha at present?

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

(a) to (f) statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b), (c), (d), (e) & (f) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *244 ON TIGER AND ELEPHANT PROJECTS IN ODISHA DUE FOR REPLY ON 11.12.2012.

(a), (b) & (c) The country level tiger population has shown an increasing trend with a population estimate of 1706, lower and upper limits being 1520 and 1909 respectively in the recent all India tiger estimation (2010), as compared to the last country level estimation of 2006, with an estimate of 1411, lower and upper limits being 1165 and 1657 respectively. The details of tiger estimation for the year 2006 and 2010 are at Annexure-I(a). The details of elephant population in the country as per the last estimation conducted in 2007, State-wise, are at Annexure-I(b). The elephant estimation is conducted at an interval of 5 years and action has been initiated for the next round of such country level assessment (2012).

(d) As reported by States, details of tiger mortality during the last three years and current year, along with reasons, are at Annexure-II(a). Details of elephant mortality for the last three years, as reported by States, along with reasons are at II(b).

(e) & (f) There are only two tiger reserves in Odisha, namely, Similipal and Satkosia. ‘In-principle’ approval has been accorded by the National Tiger Conservation Authority for declaring the Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve. There are three Elephant Reserves in the State, viz. Mayurbhanj, Mahanadi, and Sambalpur, and no new proposal in this regard is under consideration at the level of Government of India. Annexure-I(a)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *244 ON TIGER AND ELEPHANT PROJECTS IN ODISHA DUE FOR REPLY ON 11.12.2012.

Details of tiger estimation for the year 2006 and 2010

State Tiger Population

2006 2010 Increase/ Decrease/ Stable Estimate Statistical Statistical Estimate Statistical Statistical (Number) Lower Upper (Number Lower Upper Limit Limit ) Limit Limit 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- 297 259 335 353 320 388 Stable Gangetic landscape 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 300 236 364 257 213 301 Stable Pradesh 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 10 6 14 Could not be assessed compared since it was not assessed in 2006. Central Indian 601 486 718 601 518 685 Stable landscape 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 402 336 487 534 500 568 Increase landscape North Eastern Hills and Brahmaputra Flood Plains Assam 70 60 80 143 113 173 Increase Arunachal 14 12 18 Not Not Not Could not be Pradesh assessed assessed assessed compared since it was not assessed in 2010. Mizoram 6 4 8 5 (-)*** (-)*** (-)*** Stable Northern West 10 8 12 Not Not Not Could not be Bengal assessed assessed assessed compared since it was not assessed in 2010. North East 100 84 118 148 118 178 Increase Hills, and Brahmaputra landscape Sundarbans Not Not Not 70 64 90 Could not be assessed assessed assessed 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-I(b)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a), (b) & (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *244 ON TIGER AND ELEPHANT PROJECTS IN ODISHA DUE FOR REPLY ON 11.12.2012.

Population of wild elephants as reported by States

REGION STATE ELEPHANT POPULATION 1993 1997 2002 2007 North-East Arunachal 2102 1800 1607 1690 Pradesh Assam 5524 5312 5246 5281 Meghalaya 2872 1840 1868 1811 Nagaland 178 158 145 152 Mizoram 15 22 33 12 Manipur 50 30 12 - Tripura 100 70 40 59 West Bengal 186 250 292 300-350

(North) Total for 11027 9482 9243 9305-9355 North-East East West Bengal 14 26 36 25 (South) Jharkhand 550 618 772 624 Orissa 1750 1800 1841 1862 Chhattisgarh - - - 122 Total for East 2314 2444 2649 2633 North Uttarakhand 828 1130 1582 1346 Uttar Pradesh 47 70 85 380 Total for North 875 1200 1667 1726 South Tamil Nadu 2307 2971 3052 3867 Karnataka 5500 6088 5838 4035 Kerala 3500 3600 3850 6068 Andhra Pradesh 46 57 74 28 Maharashtra - - - 7 Total for South 11353 12716 12814 14005 Islands Andaman & 35 35 40 - Nicobar GRAND 25604 25877 26413 27669-27719 TOTAL

Annexure-II(a)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *244 ON TIGER AND ELEPHANT PROJECTS IN ODISHA DUE FOR REPLY ON 11.12.2012.

Details of tiger mortality, as reported by States, during last three years and current year

Sl. State 2009 2010 2011 2012 No. (as on 03.12.2012) Poachi Natural Poachi Natural Poachi Natural Poachi Natural & ng & other ng & other ng & other ng other includi causes includi causes includi causes includi causes ng ng ng ng seizure seizure seizure seizure 1 Andhra 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pradesh 2 Arunachal 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pradesh 3 Assam 1 9 2 6 3 3 1 3 4 Bihar 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 5 Chhattisgarh 0 0 2 0 2 0 1 0 6 Jharkhand 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 Karnataka 2 9 5 2 3 3 10 4 8 Kerala 0 1 2 1 1 3 4 1* 9 Madhya 4 11 3 5 0 5 8 5 Pradesh 10 Maharashtra 4 1 5 3 4 2 10 4 11 Mizoram 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 Orissa 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 13 Rajasthan 0 3 3 1 0 1 0 0 14 Tamil Nadu 1 0 22035 2 15 Uttarakhand 1 8 1 4 2 0 6 6 16 Uttar Pradesh 1 2 1 1 1 15 5 1 17 West Bengal 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 2 18 Haryana 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 19 Delhi 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

20 Goa 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 21 45 28 25 16 40 53 29

* Includes one tiger eliminated by the Forest Department, Kerala

Annexure-II(b)

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (d) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *244 ON TIGER AND ELEPHANT PROJECTS IN ODISHA DUE FOR REPLY ON 11.12.2012. Details of elephant mortality during last three years, as reported by States Year Train Accident Poisoning Electrocution Poaching 2009-10 13 05 47 18 2010-11 17 00 38 26 2011-12 04 01 30 13

Elephant casualties in train accidents State 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Assam 8 2 0 West Bengal 1 13 2 Tamil Nadu 1 0 0 Jharkhand 0 1 1 Kerala 3 0 0 Orissa 0 0 1 Tripura 0 1 0 Total 13 17 04

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 Orissa 3 17 8 Karnataka 3 7 3 Nagaland 0 0 0 Meghalaya 0 0 0 TOTAL 18 26 13 Elephant death due to poisoning State 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 Andhra 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 1 0 1 * Information on elephant mortality during 2012-13 has not been collated.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE FOR NAVI MUMBAI AIRPORT

11th December, 2012

RSQ *250

DR. BHARATKUMAR RAUT:

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the development project of Navi Mumbai International Airport, a green field project is pending as required scientific study has not been conducted by the Ministry; (b) if so, the reasons therefor and the current status of the project; (c) if not, the concrete steps Ministry has proposed to complete the required scientific study at the earliest; and (d) by when, the approval will be accorded for the Navi Mumbai International Airport?

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. 250 on “Environmental clearance for Navi Mumbai Airport” raised by Dr. Bharatkumar Raut to be answered on 11.12.2012

(a) & (b) The proposal of Navi Mumbai International Airport at Maharashtra has been accorded Environment and Coastal Regulation Zone clearance on 22nd November, 2010 with necessary conditions on environmental safeguards, after following due procedure of Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 and Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991.

(c) & (d): Does not arise in view of the reply given to parts (a) and (b) above.

STUDY ON IMPACT OF SAND MINING ON ECOLOGY 11th December, 2012

RSQ *251

DR. PRABHAKAR KORE

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

(a) whether Government is aware that sand mining is rampant in the country; (b) if so, whether it is also a fact that over-extraction of sand would badly impact on ecology; (c) if so, whether Government is taking any measures to study the impact of sand mining on the ecology; (d) whether Government has received any suggestion to conduct such a study / research; 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 PARAS (a) TO (e) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 251 FOR ANSWER ON TUESDAY, THE 11TH DECEMBER, 2012 REGARDING ‘STUDY ON IMPACT OF SAND MINING ON ECOLOGY’ RAISED BY DR. PRABHAKAR KORE.

(a) & (b) Sand mining is regulated in terms of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the rules framed therein. All mining activities of minor minerals, including sand, require prior environment clearance. This is with a view to ensuring that the mining is done in a scientific and sustainable manner.

(c) to (e) The Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF) had constituted on 24.03.2009 a group under the Chairmanship of the Secretary (Environment & Forests) to look into the environmental aspects associated with mining of minor minerals. The group submitted its report in March 2010 and made several recommendations relating to definition of minor mineral, size of mine lease, period of mine lease, cluster of mine approach for small sized mines, requirement of mine plan for minor minerals, river bed mining etc. MoEF have asked the States to examine the report and to issue necessary instructions for incorporating the recommendations made in the report in the Mineral Concession Rules for mining of minor minerals under Section 15 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. The Hon’ble Supreme Court vide its order dated 27.02.2012 in IA No.12-13 of 2011 in SLP(C) No.19628-19629 of 2009 in the matter of “Deepak Kumar etc. vs. State of Haryana and Ors.” has ordered that the State Governments and UTs should take immediate steps to frame necessary rules under Section 15 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 taking, inter-alia, into consideration the recommendations of MoEF in its report of March, 2010.

ABUSE OF GROUND WATER FOR INDUSTRIAL USE 11th December, 2012

RSQ *254

SHRI D. RAJA

Will the Minister of ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS be pleased to state

(a) whether it is a fact that the Wildlife Society of Odisha (WSO) has sent a complaint to the Ministry asking for an enquiry into the alleged abuse of ground water for industrial use by Jindal Steel and Power Ltd. in Odisha for its projects in Angul and Berbil; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) the details of Government’s action in this regard?

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. 254 REGARDING “ABUSE OF GROUND WATER FOR INDUSTRIAL USE” ASKED BY SHRI D. RAJA DUE FOR ANSWER ON 11.12.2012.

(a) & (b) The Ministry of Environment and Forests received a complaint from the Wildlife Society of Odisha (WSO) in November 2010 regarding violation by M/s Jindal Steel and Power Ltd. (JSPL) for drawl of huge quantity of ground water by digging bore wells for construction of 6 Million Tonnes per Annum of Integrated Steel Plant and 1000 MW Captive Power Plant at Kerjang in District Angul in Orissa. The complainant had also alleged that the environmental clearance granted to M/s JSPL on 22.2.2007 stipulates that the water would be obtained from the Brahmani River/ Samal Barrage.

(c) The matter was investigated by the Ministry of Environment and Forests and it was found that M/s JSPL has obtained permission on 5th October, 2007 from the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), Ministry of Water Resources, Government of India for withdrawal of 5,000 m3/day of ground water besides obtaining permission for drawl of 95.16 cusecs (9,700 m3/hr) of water from River Brahmani on 26th August, 2008 from Department of Water Resources, Government of Odisha.

CONSERVATION OF ONE HORNED RHINOES IN ASSAM 18th December, 2012

RSQ *341

SHRI KUMAR DEEPAK DAS

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

(l) the number of one horned rhinoes died in Assam during the last ten years; (m) the details of steps taken to protect and preserve one horned rhinoes and funds released, so far for the purpose; (n) whether Government is satisfied with the present steps taken by the local authority to protect the life of the one horned rhinoes; and (o) if so, whether the remaining one horned rhinoes are totally protected in Assam?

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. *341 REGARDING “CONSERVATION OF ONE HORNED RHINOES IN ASSAM” BY SHRI KUMAR DEEPAK DAS DUE FOR REPLY ON 18.12.2012.

(a) As per the information received from the State Government of Assam, the number of one horned rhinoceros died in Assam due to poaching and natural causes during the period from 2002 to 14.12.2012 is 1008.

(b) The following steps have been taken by the State Government to protect and preserve one horned rhinos in Assam:

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 14.7.2010.

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 anti-poaching camps have been constructed in all rhino bearing areas of the state.

5. Infrastructure viz. road network, patrolling path, anti-poaching camps, vehicles, boats, departmental elephants etc. have been improved/enhanced over the years.

6. Armed Home guards and local youth 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 organised in the field involving local people and civil society.

11. In order to ensure the long term survival of the rhinos in the state, the translocation of rhinos from Kaziranga National Park (NP) and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) to the Manas NP has been taken up.

Central Government has provided financial assistance to the State Government of Assam under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of ‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ (CSS-IDWH) and ‘Project Tiger’ (CSS-PT) for better management of its protected areas (PAs). The funds released during the last three years for the four PAs of Assam (namely Kaziranga NP, Manas NP, Pobitora WLS and Rajiv Gandhi Orang NP) where the rhino bearing areas exist, under the CSS-PT, CSS-IDWH and State Plan are given below:

Year CSS-PT CSS-IDWH State Plan Total (Rupees in lakhs) Kaziranga National Park: 2009-10 321.79 0 - 321.79 2010-11 1164.652 0 28.25 1192.902 2011-12 468.884 0 33.11 501.994 2012-13 ( as on 30.11.2012) - - - - Rajiv Gandhi Orang National Park: 2009-10 0 3.40 - 3.4 2010-11 0 0 17.00 17.00 2011-12 0 46.72 17.40 64.12 2012-13 ( as on 30.11.2012) 0 14.44 - 14.44 Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: 2009-10 0 15.025 0 15.025 2010-11 0 0 6.70 6.70 2011-12 0 41.55 14.55 56.10 2012-13 ( as on 30.11.2012) 0 18.355 - 18.355 Manas National Park: 2009-10 697.09 0 0 697.09 2010-11 454.704 0 0 454.704 2011-12 552.68 0 0 552.68 2012-13 ( as on 30.11.2012) -* - - - * During the current financial year, an amount of Rs.333.82 lakhs has been sanctioned for Manas National Park, which has been adjusted against the unspent balance of the previous year.

In addition to the above funds, a sum of Rs. 40.00 lakhs was also released to Manas National Park under ‘Management Action Plan for Biosphere Reserve’ programme during financial year 2009-10. A sum of Rs.80.00 lakhs has also been released during the current financial year to Kaziranga National Park for flood relief under the scheme ‘Grants-in-aid to National Tiger Conservation Authority’.

(c) & (d) 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:

Estimated population of rhinos in Assam Year Estimated population (Nos.) 2006 2006 2009 2201 2012 2505

DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES 18th December, 2012

RSQ *349

SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR

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

(a) whether the diversion of forest land for development activities requires prior approval of the Central Government; (b) if so, the details thereof along with the number of such proposals received by the Government during the last three years and the current year, State-wise;

(c) the number of proposals approved, rejected or pending along with the reasons for the same; and (d) the time by when all the proposals are likely to be cleared?

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 LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 349 ON “DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES” ASKED BY SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR DUE FOR REPLY ON 18.12.2012

(b) 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 and 2012 along with details of projects approved/ rejected as well as those under consideration of the Central Government are given in Annexure.

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 for pendency of the proposals.

(d) 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. Proposals involving 100 ha or more of forest land are also inspected in detail by the officers of the concerned Regional Office of the Ministry. The Ministry takes prompt action to consider the projects for forest clearance when proposals complete in all respects are received.

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (b) AND (c) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. XXXX BY SHRI NATUJI HALAJI THAKOR REGARDING ‘DIVERSION OF FOREST LAND FOR DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES’ DUE FOR REPLY ON 18.12.2012.

Sl. States/Union Territories No. of Under Pending due to Closed/ Total Number No. proposals consideration of non-receipt of Rejected/ of Proposals approved Government of information Returned/ India sought from the Withdrawn State/ UT Govt. Year 2010 1 Andaman & Nicobar Island 1 2 1 4 2 Andhra Pradesh 25 2 6 1 34 3 Arunachal Pradesh 14 2 3 19 4 Bihar 12 1 1 14 5 Chandigarh 1 2 3 6 Chhattisgarh 17 2 1 20 7 Dadar & Nagar Haveli 1 2 3 8 Delhi 2 1 3 9 Goa 3 2 5 10 Gujarat 75 1 12 88 11 Haryana 236 10 45 291 12 Himachal Pradesh 144 4 44 4 196 13 Jharkhand 38 3 15 56 14 Karnataka 22 2 4 9 37 15 Kerala 2 1 1 4 16 Madhya Pradesh 28 1 14 3 46 17 Maharashtra 37 2 9 2 50 18 Manipur 4 4 8 19 Meghalaya 2 2 20 Mizoram 1 1 2 21 Orissa 19 1 2 2 24 22 Punjab 254 9 67 5 335 23 Rajasthan 22 5 4 31 24 Sikkim 21 21 25 Tamil Nadu 10 1 2 13 26 Tripura 6 5 11

27 Uttar Pradesh 143 5 6 7 161 28 Uttarakhand 242 3 4 84 333 29 West Bengal 9 2 11 Total 1390 48 258 129 1825 Year 2011 1 Andaman & Nicobar Island 3 3 2 Andhra Pradesh 24 6 10 5 45 3 Arunachal Pradesh 13 2 5 20 4 Assam 2 2 4 5 Bihar 26 7 8 1 42 6 Chandigarh 4 1 5 7 Chhattisgarh 7 7 9 2 25 8 Dadar & Nagar Haveli 7 3 1 11 9 Delhi 1 1 10 Goa 1 1 11 Gujarat 83 20 31 134 12 Haryana 295 17 97 1 410 13 Himachal Pradesh 84 7 64 3 158 14 Jharkhand 8 3 4 2 17 15 Karnataka 14 11 4 6 35 16 Kerala 4 1 3 8 17 Madhya Pradesh 32 9 26 3 70 18 Maharashtra 57 4 14 2 77 19 Manipur 2 2 20 Mizoram 1 1 2 21 Orissa 16 4 3 23 22 Punjab 253 10 119 382 23 Rajasthan 14 2 5 3 24 24 Sikkim 9 1 10 25 Tamil Nadu 7 1 1 9 26 Tripura 1 1 27 Uttar Pradesh 114 6 11 6 137 28 Uttarakhand 94 5 8 101 208 29 West Bengal 4 4 Total 1177 129 426 136 1868 Year 2012 1 Andaman & Nicobar Island 2 1 1 4 2 Andhra Pradesh 7 8 10 1 25 3 Arunachal Pradesh 4 5 9 4 Assam 1 1 5 Bihar 7 3 9 19 6 Chhattisgarh 3 14 1 18 7 Dadar & Nagar Haveli 1 2 3 8 Gujarat 17 42 5 64 9 Haryana 46 21 15 102 10 Himachal Pradesh 20 24 30 74 11 Jharkhand 14 5 7 26 12 Karnataka 7 4 9 20 13 Kerala 2 2 14 Madhya Pradesh 2 18 10 30 15 Maharashtra 13 22 3 38 16 Manipur 1 1 17 Meghalaya 1 1 18 Mizoram 2 1 3 19 Orissa 2 7 9 20 Punjab 16 23 14 53 21 Rajasthan 3 4 2 9 22 Tamil Nadu 3 4 7 23 Uttar Pradesh 8 15 9 32 24 Uttarakhand 2 3 7 6 18 25 West Bengal 1 1 2 Total 193 227 144 6 570

AIR QUALITY IN METROPOLITAN CITIES 18th December, 2012

RSQ *355

SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR

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

(a) whether Government has conducted any study to assess the impact of growing (b) air pollution in the Metropolitan and urban areas including Delhi, so far; (c) if so, the reasons for the persistent smog/pollution in these areas; (d) the number of persons suffering from respiratory disorders recently reported in Delhi due to air pollution and smog; and (e) whether Government has formulated any scheme to check and improve the air quality of the country's Metropolitan cities particularly the National Capital?

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 IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (d) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 355 FOR ANSWER ON 18.12.2012 REGARDING AIR QUALITY IN METROPOLITAN CITIES RAISED BY SHRI OM PRAKASH MATHUR.

(a) to (d) The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) had sponsored a epidemiological study entitled “Effect of Air Pollution on Human Health (adults) in Delhi” which was carried out during 2002-2005 and another study was carried out on “Ambient Air Quality, respiratory Symptoms and Lung Function of Children in Delhi” during 2003 - 2005. Both studies were carried out by the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI), Kolkata. The findings of both studies have been peer reviewed by AIIMS and ICMR and no definite conclusions could be drawn from these studies.

The CPCB in collaboration with the State Pollution Control Boards, is monitoring ambient air quality at 537 locations covering 222 cities/ towns including 53 metropolitan cities in the country. The persistence of smoggy conditions in certain areas could be attributed to meteorological factors. CPCB has not carried out any assessment of the impact of smog in metropolitan and urban areas including Delhi. Health effects such as manifestation of respiratory ailments could be associated with air pollution. No statistical data is available regarding the number of persons suffering from respiratory disorders caused due to pollution. The 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 quality monitoring stations, preparation and implementation of action plans for major cities & critically polluted areas, increasing public awareness etc.

VIOLATION OF FRA BY THE FOREST ADVISORY COMMITTEE 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2653

SMT. KUSUM RAI SHRI ARVIND KUMAR SINGH

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

(a) whether Forest Advisory Committee is diverting forests to industries in blatant violation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA); (b) if so, the reasons therefor; (c) whether Government has received representation against the violation of FRA from Ministry of Tribal Affairs recently; (d) if so, the details thereof and the action taken on the representations from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs; (e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) if not, the reasons for giving preferences to industrialists in lieu of forest dwellers?

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

(a) No, Sir.

(b)In view of reply to part (a) above, reply to part (b) does not arise.

(c)to (e)The Minister for Tribal Affairs made certain suggestions regarding compliance to provisions of the Forest Rights Act, 2006 while processing and according approval to the proposals seeking prior approval of Central Government under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose. After examination of the matter in the MoEF, it has been observed that the Forest Advisory Committee while recommending grant of stage-I approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose stipulates a condition that such approval shall be subject to fulfillment inter alia of a condition that the State Government shall complete settlement of rights, in accordance with the provisions of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 on the forest land to be diverted and submit the documentary evidence stipulated by the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) in their letter No. 11-9/1998-FC (pt.) dated 03.08.2009, in support thereof to the MoEF.

The stage-II/final approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 is accorded by the MoEF only after the documentary evidences stipulated in the said letter dated 03.08.2009 are received by the MoEF.

(g) In view of reply to parts © to (e) above, reply to part (f) does not arise.

UTILISATION OF FUNDS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF PROGRAMMES RELATING TO PREVENTION OF POLLUTION 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2654

SHRI JAGAT PRAKASH NADDA

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

(a) whether it is a fact that there were instances of poor financial management in the implementation of projects related to control and prevention of water pollution in the country; (b) if so, the reasons therefor; (c) the details of the funds sanctioned for these projects and amount spent by the Government originally for the last three years; (d) whether there is a gap between the sanctioned amount and originally spent amount; and (e) if so, what measures Government has taken to ensure that funds are spent timely and for the purpose it was sanctioned?

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

(a) to (e) The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has been implementing a number of schemes for prevention and control of water pollution in the country under which financial assistance is provided to the State implementing agencies. These schemes are ongoing in nature. Details of State-wise and scheme-wise releases made during the last three years are given at Annexure. The funds under different schemes are released to various State Governments or State Pollution Control Boards / Pollution Control Committees or other agencies as the case may be, only after receipt of utilization certificates and satisfactory progress reports for previous releases. The funds released, if not utilized during the financial year for which the funds were released are carried forward to the next financial year. The Central Pollution Control Board and MoEF conducts inspections of various projects and timely corrective action are taken whenever necessary.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO ENNORE THERMAL POWER PLANT 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2655

SHRI N. BALAGANGA

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

(a) whether a number of power projects are pending with the Central Government for want of various clearances: (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is a fact that a fresh 800 MW Ennore Thermal Power Project is pending with the Government for environmental clearance for the last several years; (d) if so, the details thereof; and (e) the action taken by the Government to accord early clearance for this project?

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

(a) & (b) A total of 14 thermal power and 12 hydro power projects for environmental clearance and 13 power projects requiring diversion of forest land are pending in the Ministry. The details are given in Annexure-I, II and III.

(c), (d) & (e) Application for consideration for environmental clearance for 2x800 MW Ennore Imported Coal Based Thermal Power Project of M/s TANGEDCO (TNEB) was received in the Ministry in April, 2012. The proposal was examined in the Ministry and was placed before the Expert Appraisal Committee (Thermal Power) for appraisal in its 50th Meeting held during June 25-26, 2012. The Expert Appraisal Committee (Thermal Power) noted few discrepancies in the Environment Impact Assessment Report and has sought additional information to be submitted to the Ministry for taking its decision, which is awaited. The EIA Notification, 2006 prescribes a time limit of 105 days from the day of receipt of complete information for according environmental clearance. ANNEXURE-I

PENDING THERMAL POWER PROJECTS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE AS ON 30.11.2012

S.No. Project Details Chhattisgarh

1 No: J-13012/69/2010-IA II (T) Name: Proposed 2x660 MW Imported Coal based TPP in Korba Tehsil & Distt., in Chhattisgarh. Company: M/s Lanco Amarkantak Power Ltd.

2 No: J-13012/97/2007-IA II (T) Name: 2x800 MW Coal based Lara Sugar Thermal Power Plant in Raigarh Distt., in Chhattisgarh Company: M/s NTPC Ltd.

Karnataka

3 No. J-13012/92/2011-IA.II(T) Name: Expansion by addition of 30 MW of Co-generation Power Plant at District Belgaum State: Karnataka Company: M/s Shree Renuka Sugars Ltd.

Madhya Pradesh

4 No. J-13012/212/2010-IA.II(T) Name: Expansion by addition of 3x660 MW Sasan Ultra Mega Power Project at District Singrauli State: Madhya Pradesh Company: M/s Sasan Power Ltd.

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.

Maharashtra

6 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 Company: M/s Urban Energy Generation Pvt. Ltd.

7 No. J13012/80/2011-IA.II(T) Name: 21 MW Bagasse Based Co-Generation Project at village Pangari District- Beed State: Maharashtra Company: M/s Vaidyanath Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana Ltd.

Orissa

8 No. J-13012/25/2007-IA.II(T) Name: 2X660MW/2X700MW Tentuli Thermal Power Plant in District Angul, State: Orissa Company: M/s Mahanadi Aban Power Ltd.(M/s NSL Nagapattinum Power & Infratech Pvt. Ltd.)

9 No. J-13012/04/2009-IA.II(T) Name: 4000 MW Coal based Ultra Mega Power Project of near Bhedabahal village in Sundergarh Tehsil District: Sundergarh State: Orrisa Company: M/s Orissa Integerated Power Ltd. Tamil Nadu

10 No. J-13012/87/2009-IA.II(T) Name: 1320 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Project at Village: Perunthottam & Agaraperunthottam Taluk: District: Nagapattinam Tamil Nadu Company: M/s Sindya Power Generating Company Pvt Ltd.

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.

Uttar Pradesh

12 No: J-13012/148/08-IA-II (T) Name: Expansion of existing power plant from 741.7 MW to 999.7 MW at Renusagar, District: Sonebhadra, Uttar Pradesh Company: M/s Hindalco Industries Ltd.

13 No. J-13012/06/2009-IA.II(T) Name: 4x60 MW Captive Coal Based Thermal Power Plant and 1.0 MTPA Cement Grinding Unit and 1.0 MTPA Coal Washery at village Churk Taluk: Robertganj District: Sonebhadra State: Uttar Pradesh Company: M/s Jaiprakash Associates Ltd.

14 No. J-13012/92/2011-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.

ANNEXURE-II

Pending Hydroelectric Power Projects for Environmental Clearance as on 30.11.2012.

S.No State Hydroelectric Project Details

1 Karnataka Gundia Hydroelectric Project (200 MW) in District: Hassan & Dakshin Kannada, Karnataka by M/s.

Karnataka Power Corporation Ltd. 2 Uttarakhand Naitwari Mori HEP ( 60 MW) Project in District: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand by M/s Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd 3 Uttarakhand Devsari HEP ( 252 MW) in District: Chamoli, Uttarakhand by M/s Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd 4 Manipur Loktak Downstream HEP ( 66 MW) in District: Tamenglong, Manipur by M/s NHPC Ltd 5 Arunachal Pradesh Hirong HEP (500 MW) Project in District: West Siang Arunachal Pradesh by M/s Jaypee Arunachal Power Ltd 6 Himachal Pradesh Dhaula-Sidh HEP Project (66 MW)District: Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh by M/s SJVN Ltd 7 Madhya Pradesh Bina Complex Irrigation & Multipurpose Project (24 MW + 10 MW) District: Sagar in Madhya Pradesh M/s Water Resources Department, Govt. of M.P. 8 Himachal Pradesh Lurhi HEP Stage-I Project (775 MW) District: Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh by M/s SJVN Ltd 9 Himachal Pradesh Seli HEP Project (400 MW)District: Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh by M/s Moser Baer Projects Ltd 10 Sikkim Teesta-IV HEP Project (520 MW) in North Sikkim District, Sikkim by M/s. NHPC Ltd 11 Himachal Pradesh Chhatru HEP Project (120 MW) District: Lahul & Spiti in Himachal Pradesh by M/s DCM Shriram Infrastructure Ltd 12 Jammu & Kashmir Baglihar Stage-II HEP Project (450 MW) in Ramban District, Jammu and Kashmir by M/s J&K Development Power Corporation

ANNEXURE-III

Details of Proposals Seeking Prior Approval of Central Government Under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for Diversion of Forest Land For Power Projects (Hydel, Thermal and Wind Power) Pending Before the Government of India

As on: 04.12.2012 Category S.No. Name of Proposal State Remarks Of Project Diversion Of 5056.50 Ha Of Forest Land In Favour Of M/S SIR awaited since 14.09.2011. Nhpc For Construction Of Dibang Multipurpose Project Arunachal 1 HYDEL Again requested on 12.11.2012 to (3000 Mw) On Dibang River In Lower Dibang Valley Of Pradesh RO to carry out site inspection Lower Dibang District Of Arunachal Pradesh. Diversion Of 313.88 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction placed before FAC on 17-18 Of Tato-Ii Hydro Electric Project (700 Mw) On Siyom River Arunachal 2 HYDEL September, EDS (cumulitive In West Siang District In F/O M/S Tato Hydro Power (P) Pradesh study) Ltd. Diversion Of 276.1875 Ha Forest Land In Favour Of M/S Seli Hydro Electric Power Company Ltd. For The Himachal 3 Construction Of 400 Mw Seli Hydro Electric Project With In HYDEL SIR received and under process. Pradesh The Jurisdiction Of Lahaul Forest Division, District Lahaul And Spiti. Himachal Pradesh Proposal for reconstitute of Sub- 4 Tipaimukh Hydro Electric (M) Project Manipur HYDEL committee of FAC has been submitted Diversion Of Forest Land For 1551.60 Ha Of Forest Land Und Er The Forest (Conservation), Act, 1980 Got Placed before FAC. Sub- 5 Mizoram HYDEL Construction Of Tipaimukh Hydro Elctrict Project In committee of FAC to visit the site Mizoram Diversion Of 40.47ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of Placed before FAC on 26&27 6 Nara Dam And Allied Works In Village Nara Tehsil And Punjab HYDEL November. Distt. Hoshiarpur Under Forest Division Hoshiarpur. Diversion Of 143.4928 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Of 520 Mw Hep Teesta Stege-Iv Under Mangan And Placed before FAC on 26&27 7 Sikkim HYDEL Dzongu Range In North Distict Of Sikkim By Nhpc Limited, November. Sikkim. Kothli Bhel Hydro Electric Power Project (Stage Ii, 530 Placed before FAC on 26&27 8 Uttaranchal HYDEL Mw) In Favour Of Nhpc November. Diversion Of Forest Land For Construction Of 320 Mw Kotlibhel Hydro Electric Project Stage-Ib Devprayag In Placed before FAC on 26&27 9 Uttaranchal HYDEL Favour Of National Hydroelectric Power Corporation November. Limited (Nhpc) Diversion Of 217.522 Ha Of Forest Land For Construction Placed before FAC on 26&27 10 Of 261 Mw Rupsiabagar-Khasiyabara Hydro-Electric Uttaranchal HYDEL November. Project In Favour Of Ntpc Ltd. Diversion Of 197.173 Ha. Of Forest Land For 252 Mw Placed before FAC on 26&27 11 Devsari Hydro Electric Project On River Pinder In Tehsil Uttaranchal HYDEL November. Tharali, Distt. Chamoli In Favour Of M/S Sjvn Diversion Of 49.06 Ha. Of Forest Land In Kunukuntla Rf Placed before FAC on 17&18 Of Ananthapur Division, For Setting Up 29.06 Mw Wind Andhra WIND 12 Sep. and FAC recommendations Power Project, In Favour Of M/S Enercon Wind Farms Pradesh POWER are under Consideration. (Andhra Pradesh) Pvt. Ltd. Diversion Of 224 Ha Of Forest Land In Jathinakatt North East And South East Reserved Forest Uchchangidurga Rf WIND 13 And Other Forest Areas In Harapanahalli Range Of Karnataka SIR awaited since 30.4.2012 POWER Davanagere Forest Division For The Establishment Of 159.60 Mw Windpower Project In Favour Of M/S Sarjan

Realities Limited, Bangalore

MEASURES TO IMPROVE THE ENVIRONMENTAL SITUATION 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2656

DR.

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

(a) the details of steps Government has taken to improve the environment situation in the country; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government issued any circular in this regard to the companies; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d) The Government is committed to protect, conserve and improve the environment situation in the country. These objectives are well supported by a set of legislative and regulatory measures such as the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Besides legislative measures, a National Conservation Strategy and Policy Statement on Environment and Development, 1992, a Policy Statement on Abatement of Pollution, 1992 and the National Environment Policy, 2006 also guide the Ministry’s work.

The Government has taken up several steps to improve the performance of industries/companies to meet the prescribed/stipulated pollution control norms. These steps include:

(i) Regular vigilance by the Central and State Pollution Control Boards for verifying the compliance by the industries and taking actions against the erring industries. (ii) Implementation of charter worked out with the industrial sectors under the corporate responsibility for environmental protection. (iii) Implementation of action plans for restoration of environmental quality in critically polluted industrial clusters. (iv) Establishing and promoting concept of common effluent treatment plants to treat the waste water generated by the medium and small scale industries. (v) Development of standards with respect to polluting categories of industries and enforcing them through State Pollution Control Boards.

STUDY ON ASIATIC LIONS 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2657

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 the Ministry in consultation with State Government of Gujarat for conducting detailed study on probable impact of unprecedented climatic conditions on the Asiatic Lions; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the quantum of funds will be allocated in this regard and the criteria of this detailed study; (d) whether any study has already been conducted in this regard; and (e) if so, the output of the study and the details of action has been taken, so far?

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

(a), (b) & (c) Presently there is no such proposal with this Ministry.

(d) & (e) No such study has been conducted by this Ministry in consultation with the State Government of Gujarat.

COLLABORATION WITH ICMR ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2658

SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the Ministry had been collaborating with the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) to tackle the public health issues arising out from environmental problems; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that any suggestions has been received from ICMR to control the menace of environmental pollution; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (d) Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) and Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) are jointly addressing the issues related to environmental health. MoEF has constituted an Apex Committee and a Working Group to address the environmental health issues which include developing/ formulating strategies, identifying thrust areas, review activities on environmental health, etc. This Apex Committee and Working Group also have representation from ICMR.

FOREST CLEARANCE TO RENGALI CANAL PROJECT IN ODISHA 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2659

SHRI A.V. SWAMY

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

(a) the number of proposals of the State Government of Odisha relating to environment and forest pending clearance and the details of their present status; (b) whether forest clearance of Rengali Canal (left bank canal phase-II and right bank canal) is receiving priority attention for clearance; and (c) if so, the probable time for clearance of the project?

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

(a) There are 65 projects in pending for environmental clearance (Industry, 10; Thermal, 2; Infrastructure, 15; Coal Mine, 11; Non-Coal Mine, 27) due to non-submission of information by the project proponent / State Government. Seventeen projects for the grant of Stage–I approval under Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 are under various stages of examination.

(b) & (c) Stage-I approval for 2107.0 ha of forest land involved in Rengali Irrigation Project was granted by the Ministry on 21.11.1996. Stage-II clearance was granted for 812.0 ha. of forest land by the Ministry on 14.05.2003 in the first Phase involving entire reservoir and portions of Left Bank Canal (LBC) and Right Bank Canal (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 1295.0 ha. of forest land. For this purpose complete compliance reports on the stipulations imposed by the Ministry in their Stage-I and Stage-II (part) approvals are yet be submitted by the User Agency.

MEASURES FOR MAKING YAMUNA RIVER WATER POTABLE 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2660

SHRI PRASANTA CHATTERJEE

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

(a) how much money has so far been spent by the State Governments of Delhi and U.P. to make the Yamuna river water potable; (b) whether it is a fact that latest report of the Central Pollution Control Board shows that Yamuna water still resembles that of a drain; and (c) if so, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) No scheme was sanctioned for making Yamuna river water potable. This Ministry is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution in various rivers under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) by providing financial assistance to the concerned State Governments. To supplement the efforts of the State Governments in addressing the problem of pollution of river Yamuna, the Ministry has been providing financial assistance in a phased manner to Delhi, Haryana and U.P under the Yamuna Action Plan (YAP).The expenditure incurred under Yamuna Action Plan Phase –I and II in the state of U.P. and Delhi is as under:

Expenditure in YAP Phase- I (including Expenditure in YAP Phase-II Total Expenditure (including State state share) (as on June, 2012) (including state share) state share) (as on June, 2012) (Rs. In Lakh) (as on June, 2012) (Rs. In Lakh) (Rs. In Lakh) Delhi 16069.53 49882.90 65952.43 U.P. 27552.47 13596.68 41149.15

(b) to (c) In compliance to directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has submitted on 12.09.2012 their water quality monitoring report on river Yamuna based on water samples of the river collected during August, 2012 from 14 locations in the stretch from Hathnikund to Agra in the states of Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. As per the report of CPCB, the cumulative assessment of the key parameters of water quality viz. pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Ammonia and Total Coliforms indicates that river Yamuna is not conforming to the desired levels from Hathnikund to Agra due to higher concentration of one or the other criteria pollutants. However, in terms of BOD, an important water quality parameter, the water quality in the stretch of river Yamuna from Hathnikund to Palla meets the prescribed standards, while it does not meet the desired standards in the river stretch from Nizamuddin Bridge in Delhi to Agra.

The water quality of 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.

PROTECTION OF MIGRATORY BIRDS AT CHILKA LAKE IN ODISHA 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2661

SHRIMATI VASANTHI STANLEY

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

(a) whether the sojourn of migratory birds in the Chilka lake is not safe; (b) whether the poachers are unabatedly killing the winged guests; and

(c) if so, the details of steps the Ministry is taking to ensure that poaching activity is totally checked?

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

(a), (b) & (c) The management and protection of Chilka lake is looked after by the State Government of Odisha. As per information received from the State Government, the Chilka lake is quite safe and it is not felt that poachers are continuously killing the winged guests. The State Government has further informed that 19 numbers of patrolling squads, 69 numbers of staff, and 13 numbers of boats are continuously placed into service for the safety of birds in Chilka lake.

SURVEY ON DEATHS DUE TO POLLUTION 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2662

SHRI DARSHAN SINGH YADAV

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

(a) whether it is a fact that thousands of people die every year due to pollution; (b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; (c) whether Government has conducted any survey in this regard; and (d) if so, the details of the report of the said survey?

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

(a) to (d) According to some epidemiological studies, health effects such as manifestation of respiratory and cardiovascular aliments etc. could be associated with air pollution. However, due to various confounding factors, no conclusive data is established indicating correlationship between pollution and consequential health impacts. No statistical data is available regarding the number of deaths caused due to pollution.

ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE TO IRRIGATION PROJECTS OF RAJASTHAN 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2663

DR. GYAN PRAKASH PILANIA

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

(a) the details of the irrigation projects submitted by the State Government of Rajasthan for environmental clearance; (b) the present status of these projects; and (c) the reasons for delay in providing environmental clearance to these projects ?

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

(a) to (c) A proposal for irrigation project namely Parwan Major Irrigation-cum-Drinking Water Project in Jhalawar District of Rajasthan has been received and the Environmental Clearance (EC) was granted 30.09.2011. No other irrigation project has been received from Government of Rajasthan for Environmental Clearance.

POLLUTION LEVEL IN GANGA RIVER 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2664

DR. BHARATKUMAR RAUT

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

(a) whether it is reportedly found that water of the river Ganga fails to meet the drinking and bathing standards beyond hilly regions, i.e. Rishikesh; (b) whether the report also revealed that the river Ganga is most polluted in Kanpur and resembles that of a drain as lots of dangerous chemical waste of the factories are discharged directly in the river; (c) whether it is also found that the Ganga water has now become dangerous and causing fatal diseases like cancer; and (d) if so, the details of remedial steps Government propose to take to clean Ganga in near future so that its water effectively may be used for irrigation and drinking purpose?

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

(a) Based on the assessment of water quality reported by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on the basis of data collected at the monitoring stations, the river water does not meet the criteria prescribed for drinking purpose without treatment. The water quality does not meet the bathing criteria with respect to Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) during certain parts of the year at certain locations.

(b) The stretch of river from Kanpur to Kannauj is critical in terms of pollution, mainly due to discharge of domestic sewage and industrial effluents.

(c) There are no reports with this Ministry to suggest that Ganga water is causing fatal diseases. As per the information received from National Centre for Disease Information and Research (ICMR), the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), Bangaluru does not have any Population Based Cancer Registries along the course of the Ganga. The NCRP has also informed that it is not possible for them to say whether incidence of cancer is high along the course of Ganga.

(d) 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. The NGRBA resolved that under Mission Clean Ganga, no untreated municipal sewage and industrial effluents shall flow into Ganga by 2020. Projects with an outlay of Rs.2600 crore have already been sanctioned under NGRBA framework for implementation by the State Governments for pollution abatement and conservation of river Ganga.

UN REPORT ON CLIMATE CHANGE 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2665

SHRI RAM JETHMALANI

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

(a) whether Government's attention has been drawn towards a report recently released by United Nation's (UN) Environment Programme regarding climate change; (b) if so, whether this report expresses concern regarding environment getting toxic throughout the world; (c) if so, the reaction of Government thereto; (d) whether this report also outlines the reasons responsible for such a scenario; (e) if so, the details thereof; and (f) Whether Government has any plans to resolve this problem in India?

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

(a) to (e) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has released a report in 2012 on Emissions Gap. As per the report, the global emissions in 2020 are likely to be 58Gt (gigatonnes) of carbon-dioxide equivalent if action is not taken by nations to reduce emissions to keep the global temperature rise below 2 degrees Celsius. The report points out that even if the most ambitious level of pledges and commitments were implemented by all countries under the strictest set of rules, there will be a gap in the desired emissions level and efforts of countries to the extent of 8 Gt of carbon-dioxide equivalent by 2020. The report also points out that it is technically and economically feasible to bridge the gap through accelerated uptake of renewable energy, fuel switching and energy efficiency improvements.

(f) Government of India is committed to the global goal of limiting the temperature rise below 2 degrees Celsius through enhanced actions under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change on the basis of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. Government is implementing the National Action Plan on Climate Change to support domestic actions for adaptation and mitigation. Government has also announced a domestic mitigation goal of reducing emissions intensity of GDP by 20-25% by 2020 in comparison with 2005 level. This is in line with the projections of the energy intensity of India’s output that has shown a declining trend owing to improvements in energy efficiency, autonomous technological changes and economical use of energy. This domestic mitigation goal and the objectives of the National Action Plan on Climate Change are part of the sustainable development strategy outlined in the twelfth five year plan (12th FYP).

MEETING WITH ASEAN COUNTRIES 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2666

SHRI NAND KUMAR SAI

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

(a) whether a meeting between Indian and Association of South East Asian Nations’ (ASEAN) Environment Ministers was held in the recent past; (b) if so, the details of the issues raised and discussed by the various participant countries during the said meeting; and (c) the details of the issues on which leaders have consensus for cooperation ?

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

(a)Yes, Sir.

(b) & (c) The Government of India hosted the ASEAN-India Environment Ministers’ Meeting on September 7, 2012 at New Delhi, which was co-chaired by Mrs.JayanthiNatarajan, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment and Forests, Government of India and Mr.Pehin Orang Kaya InderaPahlawanDato Seri SetiaAwang Haji Suyoi Bin Haji Osman, Minister of Development, Brunei Darussalam and Chair of the ASEAN Ministers of Environment, and was attended by senior delegates from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and the ASEAN Secretariat. This meeting was preceded by the Senior Officers’ Meeting of ASEAN and India on September 6, 2012.

Both sides discussed various aspects of biodiversity governance in the context of the Eleventh Conference of Parties (CoP-11) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) which was subsequently hosted by India in Hyderabad from October 8 to October 19, 2012.

The Meeting unanimously adopted the ‘New Delhi ASEAN-India Ministerial Statement on Biodiversity’ whereby both sides agreed to enhance awareness among all stakeholders, strive towards mainstreaming biodiversity concerns into development processes, enhancing priority in terms of resource allocation and mobilization for biodiversity conservation, and to create networks for sharing best practices in conservation and resource enhancement in marine and its related ecosystems.

Both sides also agreed to work together for conservation and management of flagship species and enhancing conservation management and sustainable utilization of Coastal and Marine Biodiversity. Both sides also agreed to meet and exchange views on issues of common interest at appropriate ASEAN Environment Ministers’ Meetings.

The Meeting also enabled confirmation of support of ASEAN Member States to India in ensuring a successful set of negotiations which was achieved during the CoP-11 Meeting.

SMOG BUILD-UP IN DELHI 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2667

DR. KANWAR DEEP SINGH

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

(a) whether it is a fact that New Delhi recently witnessed a smog build-up caused by paddy stubble burning by farmers in the paddy fields of the neighbouring States; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether Government has taken any steps to mitigate the same; (d) if so, the details thereof; (e) if not, the reasons therefor; (f) whether Government is taking any steps to prevent such a situation in future; (g) if so, the details thereof; and (h) if not, the reasons therefor?

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

(a) to (h) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in collaboration with the State Pollution Control Boards, is monitoring ambient air quality at 537 locations covering 222 cities/ towns including 53 metropolitan cities in the country. The persistence of smoggy conditions in certain areas could be attributed to meteorological factors. CPCB has not carried out any assessment of the impact of smog in metropolitan and urban areas including Delhi. The 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 quality monitoring stations, preparation and implementation of action plans for major cities & critically polluted areas, increasing public awareness etc.

EXEMPTION FROM MANDATORY CLEARANCES UNDER FOREST RIGHTS ACT 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2668

SHRI HUSAIN DALWAI

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

(a) whether the Prime Minister’s Office has asked the Ministry to consider exemption from mandatory clearances under Forest Rights Act for construction of railway tracks, roads and power transmission lines; (b) if so, the details thereof; and (c) how these measures would ensure speedy environmental clearance for these projects?

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

(a) & (b) The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has requested the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) to examine the suggestions received by PMO regarding re-examination of the guidelines issued by the MoEF vide letter No. 11-9/98-FC (pt.) dated 03.08.2009 to exempt linear projects such as railway tracks, roads and power transmission lines etc. from application of a part of the said guidelines. The said part of the guidelines stipulates submission of a resolution passed by each of the concerned gram sabhas in a meeting where at least 50 % members of the gram sabha are present, that all formalities/processes under the Forest Rights Act, 2006 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 purpose and details of proposed diversion.

(c) The PMO has informed that in case of linear projects requiring diversion of forest land in several villages, the conditions of passing resolution by at least 50 % members is difficult to fulfill, as inspite of best efforts of the User Agencies, some of the villages do not come forward and this condition of 50% quorum is not complied with. Exemption of the linear projects from the above requirement may expedite approval under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for diversion of forest land required.

CONSERVATION OF RIVERS IN KARNATAKA 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2669

Dr. VIJAY MALLYA

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

(a) the number of water quality monitoring points identified under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) in Karnataka since 2002 along with details thereof; (b) the number of monitoring stations which have been working successfully in the State; and (c) the details of preventive steps taken for controlling the quality of the river water?

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

(a) & (b) Under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP), Water Quality Monitoring is carried out at 33 stations along rivers Cauvery, Kabini, Tunga, Bhadra and Tungabhadra in the State of Karnataka.

(c) Conservation of rivers is an ongoing and collective effort of the Central and State Governments. Under NRCP, projects for pollution abatement are sanctioned by this Ministry on a cost sharing basis between the Central and the respective State Governments. The projects include Interception & Diversion of Sewage, construction of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), Low Cost Sanitation/community Toilet complexes etc..

STRINGENT LAWS FOR VIOLATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2670

SHRI T.M. SELVAGANAPATHI

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

(a) whether it is a fact that Government is considering to bring in stringent laws to punish those who violate environmental laws; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) whether it is also a fact that no serious punishment is currently imposed on violators of environmental laws; and (d) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) & (b) Environmental laws are revisited from time to time with a view to award stringent punishment to violators.

(c) & (d) Adequate provisions have already been provided in the environmental laws for punishment of violators

GUIDELINES FOR CLEARANCE TO LAYING OF OIL PIPELINES 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2671

SHRI BALWINDER SINGH BHUNDER:

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

(a) whether the Ministry intends to review the guidelines for granting clearance for laying of oil pipelines; (b) if so, the details in this regard. (c) whether views of major stakeholders has been taken prior to revising the guidelines; and (d) if so, the details of their views and stands of Government on these views?

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

(a) & (b) No Sir. As per the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, prior environmental clearance is mandatory for oil and gas transportation pipeline (crude and refinery / petrochemical products), passing through national parks/sanctuaries/coral reefs / ecologically sensitive areas including LNG Terminal.

(c) & (d) Does not arise in view of the reply given above to parts (a) & (b).

CONSERVATION OF MUSK DEER 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2672

SHRI MAHENDRA SINGH MAHRA

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

(a) the names of places where musk deer are found at present; (b) whether Government has reserved forest areas, populated areas and civil forests to conserve musk deer; (c) the altitude at which musk deers are found; (d) whether any boundary has been fixed in the areas reserved for conservation of musk deers; and (e) if not, the reasons therefor and whether it is not creating problems for people living in the reserved areas?

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

(a)to(c) The musk deer was once continuously distributed all along the southern side of the Greater Himalayas, between 2500 m and the tree line; but as a result of human habitations, habitat alterations and poaching, it is now restricted to a few isolated pockets throughout its former range. It inhabits the forested areas between 2,500 m and the tree line. The average elevation of the tree line varies in different parts of the Himalayas, ranging from around 3,200 m in the western Himalayas to around 4,300 m in the eastern Himalayas. Unlike other ungulates of the Himalayas, which need to migrate to lower elevations in winter, the musk deer is well adapted for living in alpine, sub-alpine and upper temperate habitats (>2,500 m) even during winter.

In India, musk deer is reported to occur in and around 37 high altitude (> 2,500 m) Protected Areas, notified by the concerned State Governments inter alia to conserve musk deer populations, located in the States of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Some of the important Protected Areas where musk deer are present are as follows:

State Protected Areas where musk deer are found

Jammu and Kashmir (NP), Kishtwar NP, Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS), Limber-Lachipora WLS, Thajwas WLS, WLS Himachal Pradesh Great Himalayan NP, Kugti WLS, Tundah WLS, Gamgul WLS, Kalatop WLS, Kanawar WLS, Manali WLS, Rupi Bhaba WLS, Talra WLS, Tirthan WLS, Sainj WLS., Shikari Devi WLS, Dhauladhar WLS Uttarakhand Nanda Devi NP, Valley of Flowers NP, Gangtori NP, Govind NP, Kedarnath

WLS, Ascot WLS, Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (BR) Sikkim Khangchendzonga NP & BR, Singba WLS, Kyongnosla WLS, Pangolakha WLS, Maenam WLS Arunachal Pradesh Namdhapha NP, Mouling NP, Mehao WLS, and Dihang- Dibang BR

(d) & (e) The Protected Areas (national parks and sanctuaries), including those where musk deer are present, are notified by the concerned State Government under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. The limits of the area which are comprised within the protected areas are specified in the notifications issued under section 26A/35, as applicable, of the aforesaid Act by such Governments. This Ministry has not received any report about non-fixing of the boundary in the areas reserved for conservation of musk deer creating problems for people living in such areas.

IMPACT OF CLIMATIC CHANGE 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2673

SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD

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

(a) whether it is a fact that nature including human life is getting affected due to very sharp climatic changes taking place in the world; (b) if so, what is Government's reaction thereto; (c) whether it is also a fact that even India is not immune to this adverse change in the environment; and (d) if so, the details thereof and the additional steps taken by Government to protect the country from this crisis during the Twelfth Five Year Plan?

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

(a) & (b) The Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) published in the year 2007 projects increased risk of extreme weather events including heat waves, summer dryness, heavy and/or irregular rainfall, drought and floods. Further, the report has projected likely adverse impacts of climate change on agriculture, food production and human health caused by increased incidence of vector borne diseases.

It is the endeavour of the government to support adaptation and mitigation actions based on scientific assessment of the phenomenon. An Expert Committee set up in 2007 has given its findings on impacts of climate change on various sectors. Further, a scientific study was undertaken in 2010 whose findings are published in a report titled “Climate Change and India: A 4X4 Assessment - A Sectoral and Regional Analysis for 2030s”. The report assesses impacts 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. The study has projected a mixed picture of implications for climate parameters and related impacts on the relevant sectors in all four regions.

(c) & (d) The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) has been implemented by the Government during the 11th and the 12th Five Year Plan to address Climate Change. The NAPCC includes eight National Missions and other initiatives 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 to support India’s policies for sustainable development. A thematic scheme on ‘Climate Change Action Programme’ has been approved for implementation during the 12th Five Year Plan.

MORATORIUM ON FIELD TRIALS OF GM CROPS 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2674

SHRI

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

(a) whether an Expert Committee has recommended to put a 10 years moratorium on field trials of Genetically Modified (GM) crops ; (b) if so, the details thereof; (c) the details of other recommendations of the Expert Committee; (d) whether Government has taken any decision in this regard; and (e) if so, the details thereof?

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

(a) to (c) A Technical Expert Committee (TEC) was constituted vide Hon’ble Supreme Court Order dated 10.5.2012 in Writ Petition (Civil) No. 260/2005 in the matter of Aruna Rodrigues & Others vs Union of India & Others to address issues related to genetically modified (GM) crop field trials. The TEC has submitted its interim report on 9.10.2012. TEC 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.

(d) & (e) The Union of India is of the view that the interim report does not address the terms of reference (TOR) and has not only exceeded the mandate assigned to TEC and is also outside the scope of the Writ Petition itself. A Joint Affidavit in this regard has been filed by the Agriculture Ministry 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 matter is subjudice. Further steps will be taken after the final decision of the Hon’ble Supreme Court.

CLEANING OF RIVER YAMUNA 18th December, 2012

RSQ 2711

SHRIMATI MAYA SINGH

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

(a) whether it is a fact that the success rate in restoration and preservation work of river Yamuna is not as per expectation; (b) the quantum of amount spent on cleaning of the river during the last one decade and the results thereof; (c) whether it is a fact that floods caused due to rain clean the river better than the Government agencies in a year and various agencies engaged in cleaning mission of the river take the credit themselves; (d) the reasons behind failure in not achieving the target of cleanliness/ restoration; and (e) the details of tasks performed under Yamuna Action Plan?

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

(a) 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) An expenditure of Rs. 686.01 crore, including the State share has been incurred in last one decade on execution of schemes under Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase I and II.

(c) As per the report of the Central Pollution control board (CPCB) of September, 2012 submitted to the Hon’ble Supreme Court, the cumulative assessment of the key parameters of water quality of river Yamuna viz. pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Ammonia and Total Coliforms indicates that water quality is not conforming to the desired levels in the vicinity of Delhi (downstream of Wazirabad barrage to upstream of Okhla barrage) due to higher concentration of one or the other criteria pollutants. However, in terms of BOD, an important water quality parameter, the water quality in the stretch of river Yamuna from Hathnikund to Palla meets the prescribed standards, while it does not meet the desired standards in the river stretch from Nizamuddin Bridge in Delhi to Agra.

(d) As detailed in reply to part (a) above

(e) 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, 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.