LOK SABHA ___

SYNOPSIS OF DEBATES (Proceedings other than Questions & Answers) ______

Thursday, December 21, 2017 / Agrahayana 30, 1939 (Saka) ______

OBITUARY REFERENCES

HON'BLE SPEAKER: Hon'ble Members, I have to inform the House about the sad demise of three of our former Members, Shri Mahendra Singh, Shri

Purushottam Kaushik and Shri S.S. Kothari.

Shri Mahendra Singh was a member of the 8th Lok Sabha representing the

Guna Parliamentary Constituency of Madhya Pradesh. Shri Singh was a member of the Joint Committee on Office of Profit. Shri Singh was a sitting member of the

Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly and Cabinet Minister in the Government of

Madhya Pradesh. He also served as member of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative

Assembly for five terms.

Shri Mahendra Singh passed away on 11 September, 2017 in Gurugram,

Haryana at the age of 72.

Shri Purushottam Kaushik was a member of the 6th and 9th Lok Sabhas representing the Raipur and Durg Parliamentary Constituencies, respectively of

Madhya Pradesh, now in Chhattisgarh. Shri Kaushik was Union Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation from 1977 to 1979 and Minister for Information and

Broadcasting from 1979 to 1980. Shri Kaushik was also a Chairman, Railway

Convention Committee and a member of the General Purposes Committee.

Earlier, Shri Kaushik was a member of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly from 1972 to 1977.

Shri Purushottam Kaushik passed away on 5 October, 2017 in Mahasamund,

Chhattisgarh at the age of 87.

Shri S.S. Kothari was a member of the 4th Lok Sabha representing the

Mandsaur Parliamentary Constituency of Madhya Pradesh. He was a member of the Committee on Absence of Members from the Sittings of the House. A

Chartered Accountant by profession, Shri Kothari has to his credit a number of articles on taxation, economics and financial subjects.

Shri S.S. Kothari passed away on 7 November, 2017 in Indore, Madhya

Pradesh at the age of 87.

We deeply mourn the loss of our former colleagues and I am sure the House would join me in conveying our condolences to the bereaved families.

The Members then stood in silence for a short while.

______

*MATTERS UNDER RULE 377

(1) DR. KIRIT SOMAIYA laid a statement regarding alleged

irregularities committed by a private company.

(2) SHRI NARANBHAI KACHHADIA laid a statement regarding need

to exempt employees of Gujarat Safai Karamchari Vikas Nigam from

Income Tax Act.

(3) SHRI BIDYUT BARAN MAHATO laid a statement regarding need

to establish Institute of Automotive Research Association of India in

Adityapur in Jamshedpur Parliamentary Constituency, Jharkhand.

(4) SHRI NISHIKANT DUBEY laid a statement regarding need to set

up a Divisional office of Life Insurance Corporation at Deoghar in

Jharkhand.

(5) SHRI BHAIRON PRASAD MISHRA laid a statement regarding

need to provide adequate power supply for irrigation to farmers in

Chitrakoot and Banda districts of Uttar Pradesh.

(6) SHRI RATTAN LAL KATARIA laid a statement regarding need to

include religious places associated with Guru Gobind Singh in

Ambala Parliamentary Constituency, Haryana in Tourism Corridor.

* Laid on the Table as directed by the Chair. (7) SHRI RAMDAS C. TADAS laid a statement regarding need to take

necessary remedial measures to control Cotton Pink Ball Worm

affecting the cotton farm in Vidarbha Parliamentary Constituency,

Maharashtra.

(8) SHRI RAM TAHAL CHAUDHARY laid a statement regarding

need to ensure compliance of orders of Government of India by JSSC

and JPSC regarding requirement of Caste certificate for the purpose of

recruitment in Jharkhand.

(9) SHRI S.P. MUDDAHANUME GOWDA laid a statement regarding

need to implement the recommendations of Kamlesh Chandra

Committee report on rural postal employees.

(10) DR. SHASHI THAROOR laid a statement regarding need to

provide adequate compensation to victims of cyclone 'Ockhi'.

(11) SHRIMATI MAUSAM NOOR laid a statement regarding need for a

CBI inquiry into the death of migrant labourer from West Bengal in

Rajasthan.

(12) SHRI R. P. MARUTHARAJAA laid a statement regarding need to

provide a medical aid coach in every express trains. (13) SHRI NAGENDRA KUMAR PRADHAN laid a statement

regarding need to provide remunerative price of paddy to farmers in

Odisha.

(14) SHRI RAHUL SHEWALE laid a statement regarding need to uproot

Tuberculosis from the country.

(15) SHRI MUTHAMSETTI SRINIVASA RAO (AVANTHI) laid a

statement regarding need to set up a Central University in Rayalseema

region and a Tribal University at Vizianagaram in Andhra Pradesh.

(16) SHRI DHARAM VIRA GANDHI laid a statement regarding need to

probe the issue of grabbing of public and private land by religious

sects in Punjab.

(17) SHRI RAJU SHETTY laid a statement regarding need to take

measures for welfare of farmers in Vidarbha region of Maharashtra.

______

GOVERNMENT RESOLUTION

AND

SUPPLEMENTARY DEMANDS FOR GRANTS -

SECOND BATCH FOR 2017-18

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(SHRI RAJEN GOHAIN) moved the Resolution "that this House approves the recommendations contained in Paras 9, 10 (to the extent that reimbursement of losses on operation of 'strategic lines' is made by General Revenues to Ministry of

Railways), 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 (the rate of interest will be paid on the basis of average cost of borrowing) of the Sixth Report of Railway Convention

Committee (2014) which was presented in Lok Sabha and laid in the Rajya Sabha on 2nd December, 2016."

SHRI M. VEERAPPA MOILY initiating said: Before I get into the core of the subject I would like to make a general observation. When we are reviewing the

DISHA programme we find that the money is not being released by the

Government of India timely. Another point is about the big programme, that is,

Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). In all these three and a half years, there is no money. In Karnataka, it has not come. I do not know whether it has come in rest of the States. As regards the state of our economy as on today, the

Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister has conceded that various reasons have contributed to the slowdown of growth rate to 5.7 per cent GDP growth in the first quarter. Both the decisions happened in quick succession - first demonetization and then the GST. So, I would like to know whether you have made any evaluation of the impact of GST on inflation. What is the impact of impact of demonetization on employment both in the organized sector and in the unorganised sector? I would also like to ask the Government that how can it ensure fiscal regulation? Even the IMF forecast has reduced 2017 growth forecast to 6.7 per cent. The RBI has also reduced the growth forecast by an identical margin. Similarly, when the question of VAT came, there again it was scrutinised.

This Government want everything in a hurry. Everybody suggested not to implement GST from 1st of July. It is alright the Government has done it. But, what is the effect of it? Has any impact study on GST been done? You could have waited for six months more to implement it. Provisions of a Bill is not properly deliberated and discussed on the floor of the House. In the last three and half years this Government has referred only two Bills to the Standing Committee on

Finance. Committee system should not be politicised. The Government should not try to interfere with the Committee system. That is my appeal through this forum. Already our domestic saving rate is coming down very sharply. It was 37 to 38 per cent. Now without this Bill, it has come down to less than 30 per cent.

The soundness of the economy of any country depends upon its domestic savings.

With this Bill, again more panic will be created and as a result depositors may start withdrawing and there may a run on the banks. I am not going to question the methodology as regards GDP because you have chosen to change the methodology after 2015. But that 5.7 per cent according to the methodology adopted after 2015 is equivalent to 3.7 per cent of the earlier methodology as regards GDP. This is what you need to address sometimes. The Government had not implemented the expenditure reforms. None of the three Reports given by Shri Parthasarathy

Shome has seen the light of the day. As far as infrastructural projects are concerned, they remained muted in the first quarter of 2017-18. In fact, if there is no realisation about the deficiencies, then you will never benefit. Ultimately, it would harm the country also. There is a shortage in tax revenue, both direct and indirect. How is the Government going to mobilise additional funds. According to the latest World Inequality Report, India's top one per cent earners received 22 per cent of the national income in 2014. So, the inequality has increased. There is a conflict between the Government and the RBI. Similarly, a handful of people pay the bulk of our tax. The number of crorepatis has grown sharply. That has increased by 22 per cent by 2015-16. This is the inequality status. All States barring Delhi reported revenue losses in October on account of Goods and Services

Tax. The GST Council has slashed rates on 215 items. Then, there is a report saying that there is a low factory growth due to GST. The Government has set a fiscal deficit target of 3.2 per cent of GDP for 2017-18. Mere talking about target is not going to help you? There should be honesty in presenting the facts before this House and I find it lacking here. Then, there is the fear of bank failure.

Government has not solved the problem of NPAs. The C&AG Report on Direct

Taxes has raised troubling questions. According to the Report, there have been persistent and pervasive irregularities in respect of corporate tax and income tax assessment cases over the years. Our investment profile projection to the outside world has been severely damaged because of such irresponsible reports given by the then C&AG. As far as direct taxes is concerned, its share in tax revenue has reduced very badly. I want to know how much black money, which was stashed outside, has been brought back? The economy is in a very bad shape. There is no attempt or effort to save it. There is a total scarcity in the management of finance.

DR. RAMESH POKHRIYAL NISHANK: I rise to support the

Supplementary Demands for Grants. Welfare of farmers is the top most priority of the Government. This Government is the Government of the farmers. The farmers will be extended assistance at all levels. Roads are the arteries of any country and they make great contribution in its development and prosperity. A provision of

Rs.15,908 crore for the National Highways has been made in the Supplementary

Demands for Grants. National Highways and railways can be called the spine of the entire nation. Our Government has provided additional budget for both these sectors. Our Government had provided Rs.48,000 crore under MNREGA. Today, this money is being credited directly to the workers' account and they are getting employment. Our Government is working strongly in the direction of providing work to the poor and every hand. Even after 70 years of Independence, 18000 villages were without electricity. Electrification of these 18000 villages was targeted under the Pradhan Mantri Saubhagya Yojana for which an additional amount of Rs.1,033.8 crore has been provided. GST Council has been made very powerful. It is such a revolutionary step which catapults India to the top of financial management in the entire world. Such a significant decision taken by the

Government cannot be implemented suddenly. Patience is needed for this. A provision of Rs.960 crore has been made to remove the obstacles being faced in the implementation of GST and thus ensure a uniform tax system all over the country.

Government employees have also been taken care of and an amount of Rs.5905 crore has been provided for implementing the recommendations of the 7th Pay

Commission. An amount of Rs.5198 crore has been provided under the Pradhan

Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana which will secure the health and future of our children and country. This year is definitely a historic year in terms of financial management. Even amidst global recession and irregular monsoon our growth rate has maintained at 6.3 per cent which is the highest in the world. Foreign exchange reserves of 400 billion dollars is the highest ever in the history. The entire world has lauded demonetization and GST. Inflation is completely under control and fiscal deficit has been reduced. People all over the country have approved this economy. Though, the decision of demonetization was a hard one, still the entire country, despite all the problems, was behind the Government. We have reached number one spot leaving behind even the US in the FDI sector. We have also achieved the first rank globally in the field of credibility. We are also leading the world in terms of growth rate. I believe that these are revolutionary reforms. More than 2 lakh crore rupees have been provided to set the NPA accounts of the PSU banks in order. We are number one in the world in respect of foreign exchange.

Moody's reports and data cannot be ignored. It has not only reduced price rise but has also lead to a sharp decline in the fiscal deficit. India is now ranked 100 from

182 in the World Bank's 'Ease of Doing Business Index'. India is the first country in the world to take such quantum jump in its ranking in such a short time. We have been successful in remaining the best performing economy among the BRICS countries. Like GDP, the actual growth rate of GVA which was 5.6 per cent in the first quarter has increased up to 6.1 per cent in the second quarter. This is historic jump. Our economic policy is robust. Our Government has also taken some revolutionary measures to bring back the black money. The number of tax payers has also registered an increase of 26.6 per cent. Our Government has also taken stringent action against the fake companies and as a result thereof 2.24 lakh fake companies have been shutdown. I come from the Himalayan region. I would surely want that special attention should be paid to our region. A special package should be given for the horticulture, forestry and medicinal herbs found in abundance in this area. *SHRI A. ARUNMOZHITHEVAN: I urge upon the Government to make a special allocation funds as drought relief assistance to the drought-affected farmers of Tamil Nadu. In December 2015, there was devastation in Tamil Nadu due to the unprecedented rains and floods, causing huge loss to lives and property.

Tamil Nadu State Government had sought Rs. 25,912.45 Crore from the Union

Government for carrying out relief and restoration work in the State. Even after a year has passed since then, there was no adequate allocation of funds to the State to address this problem. Moreover in December 2016, Vardah cyclone caused devastation in Tamil Nadu and economic activities in the State came to a standstill causing enormous loss. The State Government sought an amount of Rs.22,573

Crore from the Union Government as relief assistance. But, as regards this demand not even a single rupee has been provided till date.

Therefore, I also urge upon the Union Government to release Rs. 5166 Crore for the Cauvery-Vaigai-Gundar rivers linking scheme; and Rs. 1862 Crore for the

Athikkadaveu-Avinasi flood canal scheme on a priority basis. As a part of solid waste management in the metropolitan and suburban areas of Chennai, an amount of Rs. 25,000 Crore is required by the State. I urge upon the Union Government to accord approval immediately and also ensure adequate fund allocation for the speedy implementation of Chennai Metro Rail Scheme. In order to ensure welfare

* Original in Tamil of farmers deep sea fishing bases should be set up with adequate allocation of funds by the Union Government. I also urge upon the Union Government to provide a special grant of Rs. 200 Crore to Tamil Nadu to celebrate the Birth

Centenary of Bharat Ratna Puratchithalaivar M.G. Ramchandran in a grand manner.

PROF. SAUGATA ROY: I rise to speak on the Supplementary Demands for Grants. It is part of the constitutional duty of the Government to pass any excess expenditure. The actual outgo under this head is Rs.33000 crore which includes expenditure towards roads and highways, urea freight subsidy,

MGNREGA and 7th Pay Commission. There are only two problems about these grants. One is that the Government has fixed the deficit at 3.2 per cent but with this expenditure, 96 per cent of the deficit is already met. So, the Government will not be able to maintain the deficit within 3.2 per cent. The other criticism about this grant is that the revenue expenditure, largely of the routine nature like interest payment, pensions and upkeep of assets, is rising faster as a result of which, the economy is not improving to the extent possible. The crisis in the MSME sector should not be brushed under the carpet. Inflation is also rising again due to the inflationary impact of the GST. This is a Supplementary Grant and the

Government has already cut expenditure drastically under several social sector schemes including ICDA, SSA, MNREGA etc. and this will impact the poor people. IMF also says that the economy needs to be looked into and that is not doing well. There is total crisis in the agrarian field. The Government is enacting one law after another but the NPAs are not coming down. The investment sentiment is also not favourable. The Government must rise and fulfill its responsibility, withdraw the linkage to the Aadhar and the Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill and ask pardon from the people of this country for tremendous suffering caused to them due to demonetization. Demonetization and hurried implementation of GST has also dented the country's economy.

SHRI VINAYAK BHAURAO RAUT: The hon. Prime Minister has expressed his solemn desire to double the income of farmers by the year 2022.

Fortunately, some very good schemes have been announced for the agriculture sector. The production in northen & western Maharashtra and Vidharba region has already doubled and at places it has even tripled owing to good irrigation facilities and cooperation from the Government. But, the farmers are not able to find market facilities and fair price for their bumper production. The farmers should be imparted the necessary training also. The Government should implement some selected recommendations of the Swaminathan Committee Report and ensure that the farmers get remunerative price for their produce.

Anandwadi Fishing Harbour be set up at the Deogarh tehsil of the

Sindhudurg district in Konkan. This demand is being made for the last several years by the fishermen of Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg and Raigarh. Food Processing

Cluster may be started by the government at Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg. It is my request that the Government may, at the earliest, set up skill development centers at Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg to properly implement the skill development education system and to provide better facility to the people to give them relief.

SHRI M. MURLI MOHAN: The Polavaram Project is a multi-purpose irrigation project which has been accorded National Project Status by the Central

Government. The revised estimate of the project is Rs.58,319.06 crore. I urge upon the Union Government to approve the revised estimates and release all pending dues for this project. The estimated cost of building/developing the capital is close to Rs.43,000 crore over the next five years to construct essential infrastructure of the Amaravati City, the new capital city For Andhra Pradesh. A total amount of Rs.2050 crore has been released so for by the Centre. I urge upon the Government to release at least Rs.20,000 crore in this Supplementary Budget.

I urge upon the Government to release funds to the tune of Rs.200 crores to each of the seven districts of Rayalasema and north coastal region for annual development of Andhra Pradesh. I would request the Central Government to fulfill all the promises contained in the APR Act. It is high time to establish a new Railway

Zone at Visakhapatnam. Railway Wagon Workshop at Visakhapatnam, Railway

University, Coach Refurbishment Unit at Kurnool should also be set up. There is a need to allocate adequate funds and expedite the process for the Pithapuram-

Kakinada railway Line, Srikalahasthi-Nadikudi railway line, Kotipalli-Narsapuram railway line, Kovvuru-Badrachalam railway line. I would request the Government kindly to sanction one more AIIMS like institute along with National Cancer

Research Institute at Rajahmundry. I support the second Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2017-18.

SHRI A.P. JITHENDER REDDY: There are no specific provisions in the

Supplementary Demands for Grants towards assistance for the State of Telengana.

Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project be allocated funds under the Accelerated

Irrigation Benefit Programme Scheme and it should be given the national project status. GST rates for the textile sector should be slashed. We request the Centre to release funds under NREGA at the earliest possible. Central allocation may be increased to set up a Tribal University. At least Rs.1,000 crore should be given for the establishment of AIIMS in Telangana. We request that additional funds be given to the State of Telangana so that further projects can be taken up.

SHRI MOHAMMAD SALIM: The Supplementary Demand for Grants raises a question mark on the budgeting process of the Government. Out of

Rs.33000 crore, Rs.32000 crore are internal savings or meant to be transferred from one account to another. Funds have been allocated for high level research in the field of agriculture. The farmers committing suicide today will not get any benefit from it. Maximum corruption has occurred in the name of demonetization.

The Government should inform as to which shell companies are being inquired into. When the economy is growing, everything is all right, why the revenue receipt is declining forcing the Government to reduce the expenditure. Whatever the Government may think, the people of the country are in difficulty.

SHRI BHARTRUHARI MAHTAB: I stand here to deliberate on the

Second Supplementary Demands for Grants. The Government has sought nod of the House for gross additional spending of Rs. 66,113 crore in 2017-18. The question is whether this additional spending would put pressure on Government finances. The Government has budgeted a fiscal deficit of 3.2 per cent of GDP for

Financial Year 18. My second question is whether fiscal consolidation will continue? When there is uncertainty regarding revenue collections after GST being implemented from 1st July, is the Government going to revisit the FRBM

Act? We have been told that fiscal deficit at the end of October hit 96.1 per cent of the Budget Estimate for 2017-18 mainly due to lower realisation and rise in expenditure. Growth in the country slowed to a three year low of 5.7 per cent in the quarter that ended in June. The revenue deficit is 124.7 per cent of the budgeted amount. The Government must either curb its expenditure or miss its fiscal deficit target. We are in the third quarter of our financial year but we are only discussing about the past two quarters and the bulk of the money that will be coming to the exchequer will be in the last quarter of the financial year. Is the

Government going to adopt a new Debt and Fiscal Responsibility Act for a new roadmap for fiscal indicators? It is essential that the Government needs to put in place an appropriate mechanism to avoid instances of inconsistencies in estimation and correct reporting of component of expenditure having a bearing on deficit indicators. When global trade is recovering, it is worrying that the growth is slower and exports are weak. Job creation is still to pick up, the latest inflation data is a cause of concern. The Government has difficult choices to make like slashing fuel taxes and lowering the interest rates by the RBI. Very recently, a letter from the Ministry of Finance has been sent to respective State Governments that monthly release of tax devolution to States will be made on 15th of every month from September, 2017 onwards, instead of the first working day of every month. This decision is actually adversely affecting the finance of the States.

Bunching of release will create serious liquidity constraints in all the States.

Therefore, my request to the hon. Finance Minister is that he should review this decision for better fiscal management of the State. My second point is relating to the coal royalty. Royalty of coal was due for revision in April 2015. Instead of revising royalty, the Union Government has raised the Clean Environment Cess on coal from Rs. 200 to Rs. 400 per ton and nothing is passed on to the States to that effect. Thirdly, in order to help the farming community suffering from the crop loss, the Government of Odisha has already initiated pro-active measures to provide relief to the affected farmers. So the Government should give benefit of reduced interest rate to the farmers in case of conversion of crop loan into medium term loan. There is another issue. A decision has been taken by the Ministry of

Rural Development and a letter has been sent to respective States that all disbursement relating to National Social Assessment Programme (NSAP) will be disbursed through bank accounts. As there are many States where the Gram

Panchayats do not have bank institutions. So, I request the hon. Finance Minister to look into this. In a recent C & AG report, it is stated that the Income Tax

Department had raised exaggerated demands of certain corporate assessees to achieve its revenue collection target by resorting to methods that were irregular and unwarranted. In February, 2004, the then Government had announced a new liberalized remittances scheme for Indian residents in the direction of full rupee convertibility. Under this scheme, the outward remittances by resident Indians by

RBI totalled to USD 11.02 billion in 2016-17. It is a figure that is rising. In 2004-

05, it was only USD 9.6 million. This could prove to be a problem.

SHRI VARAPRASAD RAO VELAGAPALLI: We appreciate these additional Demands for Grants. I have to mention a small issue with regard to the implementation of the NREGA. Firstly, the funds are not released on time and secondly, we wage component principle is not being followed. So, we request the Government of India to insist for it. I would suggest here that perhaps take it out of the purview of the State Government and implement it through the District

Administration. The Government has promised as much as 3.5 crore houses but there is not reasonable development of construction of houses in my Constituency in the last three and half years. Local MPs should be involved in sanctioning the houses by the Government of India. The recent survey says that there is a boost in the GDP from 7.2 per cent of 7.7 per cent, but that is not because of any private investment. It is mostly because of the investment by the Government. The funds may be increased for MGNREGA and effective implementation is also very much required. We are yet to see a tangible improvement as far as the doubling of farm income is concerned. We also request the Government to withdraw the Financial

Regulation and Deposit Insurance Bill. It is going to affect the small savers. The most important thing is the NPA. It is reaching an alarming figure of Rs. 16 lakh crore whereas the total credit of the farming sector is only Rs. 4 lakh to Rs. 5 lakh crore. The Central Government may impress upon the State Government of

Andhra Pradesh to give its consent to Dugarajapatnam Port which was promised to complete by 2018. There is a need to accord Special Status to Andhra Pradesh.

The Polavaram Project should also be completed soon. A Steel Plant is supposed to come up at Kadapa. Similar is the case with the Railway Zone and

Petrochemical Complex at Vizag. Dredging Corporation of India in Vizag is likely to be privatised. The Government should consider cancelling the idea of privatization of the Dredging Corporation of India, Vizag.

SHRI P. KARUNAKARAN: Although BJP has announced in their election manifesto 150 percent of incentive to the farmers nothing has been given.

Government has not made any initiative to give better Minimum Support Price

(MSP) to the farmers. Though Government promised to give 2 crore jobs in every year only 2 lakh jobs have been created. Government have failed to control the price rise. The prices of almost all essential commodities had gone up. Government has changed the funding pattern of Centrally-sponsored schemes. This has made much hardship to the States since States have to take the financial burden. Kerala has faced very serious adverse effects due to cyclone Ockhi. About 30,000 houses were partially damaged and 4000 houses were fully damaged. Four thousand boats and 150 nets have been lost. Till now 75 persons lost their lives. Government of

Kerala has demanded 7,240 crore of rupees as a comprehensive package. We requested for an urgent financial assistance to the State. The foodgrains allotted to the State of Kerala has reduced to 2.50 lakh metric tons. I request to retain the earlier food allocation without further delay.

SHRI JOSE K. MANI: During GST implementation, Government clearly underestimated the task at hand and haughtily ignored the stakeholders who had warned that more time was needed for smooth roll-out of the new tax regime. Post implementation, many MSMEs have shut down, industrial production and private investment have collapsed, the exports have came down and the exporters are facing working capital constraints. The economy's downward spiral has left a trail of job losses across all the sectors and the rising inflation has compounded the issues for common man. Even under the Government's flagship skilling scheme, the Pradhan Manti Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) less than a tenth of the trained candidates have received placement offers. These numbers represent that the

Government has failed to create sufficient jobs for the country's growing workforce. To cash in the increased demand, airlines, including Air India, incessantly hike their prices during the festivals. The Government should put a check on such price hike and ensure that the interests of travellers are protected.

Indian fisheries is an important sector of the economy, contributing to the agricultural exports and engaging about fourteen million people in different activities. Considering the immense importance of the sector and the large scale of employment that it generates for the coastal areas, there is a need for a separate

Ministry of Fisheries. The cyclone Ockhi has wrought extensive devastation and damage to the fishing hamlets of the Southern Kerala coast resulting in the loss of lives of many fishermen who had drifted into deep sees in the process of earning their livelihood. The Centre should declare Ockhi a national calamity on the same scale as was the still-haunting Tsunami decades ago and extend compensation to the victims.

SHRI G. HARI: The extremely heavy rains in Tamil Nadu during

December 2015, Cyclone Vardah in December 2016 and the recent Ockhi Cyclone had caused devastation in the State. Therefore, I urge the Union Government to immediately release an adequate relief grant to Tamil Nadu. The scheme for modernization of the canal system in the Cauvery Basin at a cost of Rs. 11,421 crore may be accorded approval. I urge the Government to consider Grand Anaicut project proposal and allocate the requested funds for its implementation. The

Athikadavu-Avinashi Flood Canal Scheme at an estimated cost of Rs. 1862 crores may also be sanctioned on a priority basis. Apart from the Adyar River Eco-

Restoration Project, the Coovum River Restoration Project to be implemented in 5 years. I would like the Government will create a separate Ministry for Fisheries and Development of Fishermen Community in the country and focus exclusively on the subject to provide a permanent and everlasting solution for the serious life challenging problems faced by Indian Fishermen Community. I request the

Government to allocate Rs. 200 crores for Tamil Nadu State for celebrating the

Birth Centenary of Dr. M.G. Ramachandran founder of AIADMK and the Chief

Minister of Tamil Nadu. SHRI K. ASHOK KUMAR: The extremely heavy rains during the North

East Monsoon in December 2015 have caused enormous devastation to standing crops, property and public infrastructure in Tamil Nadu. In December 2016,

Cyclone Vardah caused severe damages to the coastal regions of Northern Tamil

Nadu. Recently Ockhi Cyclone has devastated the Southern parts of Tamil Nadu

Kanyakumari and Tiruneveli. I request the Government to release sufficient funds for providing relief to the affected people. Tamil Nadu Government had declared

32 districts as drought affected. I urge upon the Union Government to release a special package to address the plight of farmers in Tamil Nadu.

The Union Government has promised to form a separate Ministry to enhance the socio economic status of the fishermen community and to provide protection and ensure safety for them. I request the Government to release Rs.

3000 crores for the development of fisheries in Tamil Nadu through Blue

Revolution which is underway. The Government of Tamil Nadu has urged the

Union Government to release 17,000 crores to enhance power infrastructure in the state as grant or as soft loan for conversion of 230 KV transmission overhead lines into underground cables to facilitate urban growth. There is need to speed up the process of establishing the inter-state green energy corridor.

SHRIMATI V. SATHYABAMA: I request the Hon'ble Finance Minister to allocate sufficient funds for construction of an integrated building for the purposes of Department of Posts and Passport Kendra at Kallampalayam Road,

Tirupur. The Government of Tamil Nadu had sought an assistance of Rs.22,573 crores from the Central to undertake reconstruction works in areas affected by cyclone Vardah. The recent Ockhi cyclone had devastated the Southern Districts

Kanyakumari and Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu. I urge the Union Government to immediately release an adequate relief grants to Tamil Nadu. The Union

Government has yet to release an amount of Rs. 17,000 crore to Tamil Nadu as part of its share for centrally sponsored schemes. Any delay in the release of funds sanctioned for the projects will adversely affect the success of centrally sponsored schemes. I urge upon the Union Government to expedite the release of Rs. 17000 crores dues to Tamil Nadu. Athikadavu-Avinashi Flood Canal Scheme at an estimated cost of Rs. 1862 Crores may be sanctioned on a priority basis. I request the Hon'ble Finance Minister to release Rs. 20.00 crores for Gunderipallam

Reservoir so that it could become a significant tourist center of Tamil Nadu.

SHRI MEKAPATI RAJA MOHAN REDDY: I would like to reiterate our Party's demands and the promises made in the Parliament at the time of passaging of the AP Reorganisation Bill should be implemented forthwith. They include:

Grant of Special Category Status to the State; Polavaram project implementation by Union Government completely at their cost as provided in the Act; Duggirajapatnam port project; Kadapa steel plant; Visakhapatnam petrochemical complex, Visakhapatnam Railway Zone etc;

I request the Government to kindly withdraw its proposal to privatize the

Dredging Corporation of India.

DR. K. GOPAL: The Tamil Nadu Government has declared all 32 districts as drought-affected and has urged the Centre to sanction Rs. 39,565 crore to provide relief to the farmers for the damage caused due to the drought situation. I would urge the Union Government to release the special package of funds to address the plight of farmers in Tamil Nadu at the earliest. River Cauvery is the lifeline of Tamil Nadu. With the notification of the final order of the Cauvery

Water Disputes Tribunal, the scheme of modernization of the canal system in the

Cauvery Basin at a cost of Rs. 11,421 crore may be accorded approval. I urge upon the Government to consider the proposal for the extension, renovation and modernization of the Grand Anicut Canal in Thanjavur and Pudukkotai districts and allocate the requested funds. The proposal to divert the flood waters of

Cauvery to drought-prone areas by linking the Rivers Cauvery-Vaigai-Gundar at a cost of Rs. 5,166 crore may be sanctioned. Likewise, the Athikadavu-Avinashi

Flood Canal Scheme at an estimated cost of Rs. 1,862 crore may also be sanctioned on a priority basis. In my constituency, some of the projects are going on very slowly due to lack of funds. Please sanction the funds for the following projects - Karaikudi broad gauge line diversion and Thiruthuraipoondi, Agasthiyan

Palli, Nagapattinam, Peralam and Karaikal Project. The Union Government is yet to release Rs.17,000 crore to Tamil Nadu as part of its share for centrally sponsored schemes towards reimbursing the money spent by the Government of

Tamil Nadu. These schemes include post/pre-matric scholarship funds for SC/ST students, funds for school education department, building the infrastructure for judiciary, under the Swatchh Bharat Mission (Gramin) and the Revised

Technology Upgradation Funds Scheme. A special package should be given to drought-affected farmers and cyclone-ravaged fishermen in Tamil Nadu. I also urge upon the Government to support the proposed Phase-II of the Metro Rail

Project of Chennai.

DR. KIRIT SOMAIYA: The Members of the Opposition have been painting a grim picture of the economy but the common people of the country do not share their pessimism. Recently, a major newspaper conducted an opinion poll in the country. As per the newspaper, 79 per cent of people said that they will vote for Modi in 2019. The global CEO of General Electric as well as the columnist of

'The Economist' agree on the point that India's economy is doing pretty well. The

US has admitted that India is a leading global power. The World Bank has released the Ease of Doing Business Report - 2018 and India is ranked 100 among

190 countries. Moody's has improved India's credit ratings. I, therefore, feel proud of my Prime Minister. I will give you the growth figures. India received

$ 366 billion as FDI in 2017 as compared to $36 billion in 2013-2014. The market capitalization of Mumbai Stock Exchange has doubled in the last three years. This

Government signed an agreement with Saudi Arabia due to which the extra premium was waived off. We also signed an agreement with Bhutan and set up four major hydraulic power stations there. The Government of India got a contract to build a hydropower dam in Nepal. In the same way, the construction of rural roads and the national highways has received a major fillip. During UPA regime the growth rate was 4.5 per cent and are going to achieve 8 per cent in 2018. Our

Government had contained the fiscal deficit and the foreign exchange reserve has touched $402 billion. We have decided to provide free power to every household by 2019. When our Government came to power there were around 16.5 crore LPG connections in the country but when the Modi Government linked these connections with the Aadhaar, around 3.5 crore gas connections turned out to be bogus. In the same way, when we came to the power there were around 11.5 crore ration card holders but when these ration cards were linked with Aadhaar 1.6 crore ration cards were turned out to be bogus. During UPA regime, an LED bulb cost around 400-500 rupees. Today, it is available in the retail market for Rs.50. By the year 2019, we will made available 19 crore more LED bulbs. It will save Rs.

40 thousand crore in the power bill. Our Prime Minister is concerned about the poor and these Supplementary Demands for Grants have been brought in keeping the interest of the poor in mind. You are requested to cooperate with the

Government in this nobel endeavour.

SHRI P. R. SUNDARAM: I urge upon the Union Government to expedite the release of Rs. 17000 crores dues to Tamil Nadu, the approved central share and to release a special package and funds to address the plight of farmers and cyclone ravaged fishermen in Tamil Nadu at the earliest. River Cauvery is the lifeline of

Tamil Nadu. With the notification of the Final order of the Cauvery Water

Disputes Tribunal, the scheme for Modernization of the canal System in the

Cauvery Basin at a cost of Rs. 11,421 crore may be accorded approval. I urge the

Government to consider and allocate the requested funds for the implementation of

Grand Anaicut project. The Athikadavu-Avinashi Flood Canal Scheme at an estimated cost of Rs. 1862 Crores may also be sanctioned on a priority basis. I also urge upon the Government to support the proposed Phase II of the Metro Rail

Project of Chennai and to ensure that all necessary clearances are provided expeditiously.

SHRIMATI SANTOSH AHLAWAT: I support the Supplementary

Demands for Grants presented by the Government. The Government aims to promote 'Sab Ka Sath, Sab Ka Vikas' especially for the upliftment of backward and poor people of the country. The Minister of Finance has spent more than the allocated funds for development of people. These supplementary Demands for

Grants will play a significant role in doubling the income of farmers by 2020.

Efforts are being made to enhance income of farmers and improve their standard of living through various new schemes. Implementation of GST and demonetisation will enhance tax collection and strengthen the economy.

SHRI SHARAD TRIPATHI: I support the supplementary budget . In a research done by UNESCO in Washington, it is observed that India will emerge as economic superpower of the world in ensuing years. It is stated therein that

G.D.P. of India will remain 8 percent for approximately 20 years. I request the

Government to provide financial assistance for development of Balrampur,

Shravasti, Khalilabad and Vansi, in my Parliamentary Constituency, Sant Kabir

Nagar, which is the 'Karmabhoomi' of Atalji.

SHRI MUTHAMSETTI SRINIVASA RAO (AVANTHI): I support the

Supplementary Demands for Grants 2017-18 (The Appropriation (No.5) Bill,

2017. I want to mention some important issues regarding my Andhra Pradesh

State; for construction of A.P. capital city, Amaravati, the State Government is spending a lot of money, hence the Union Government should fulfill its obligations for early completion of the project; creation of a separate Railway zone for A.P. State should be expedited. The Government should allot adequate funds to complete Polavaram project in time I request the Government to sanction and release the funds for setting up of Central educational institutions in the State so that these institutions could become functional at the earliest. The Government of

Andhra Pradesh is having deficit budget after bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, I request the Central Government to come to the rescue of the State as early as possible . The special package in lieu of the special status to the new State of

Andhra Pradesh should be released without any delay. Finally, Backward

Development Fund of Rs. 2000 crores for seven districts has been announced but till now only Rs. 1000 crores has been released. I request the Government to release the balance amount immediately.

SHRI RAMEN DEKA: I support the Demands for Grants as it is necessary to keep the pace of development in the country. Since Darrang District on the north bank of Brahmaputra in Assam is not connected with rail network.

Therefore I urge upon the Government to provide an additional grant for laying a new rail line from Rangia to Dekargaon which will cater the people of North bank of Brahmaputra as well as army personnel transportation upto Indo-China border as an alternative route.

SHRI NALIN KUMAR KATEEL: The Government today sought

Parliament approval for additional expenditure of Rs. 66,113 crore. I would like to say that a lot of initiatives have been taken by successive Governments with regard to healthcare, but not a single Government hospital in India is having sufficient number of beds, doctors, trained nurses, accommodation and other paramedics. I would like draw the attention of the Hon'ble Minister towards setting up of AIIMS like institutions in the state of Karnataka. My next point is about inclusion of my

TULU language, into 8th schedule of the constitution. I urge upon the Union

Government to take immediate step to include the language into 8th schedule without further delay. There is a growing concern among Government employees that the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority had written to the

Centre to invest half of the NPS fund in the stock market and it could put the hard earned money of the employees in jeopardy. Hence, I urge the Union Government to look into this issue without any delay.

SHRI B.N. CHANDRAPPA: The Government has sought parliament approval for additional expenditure of Rs.66,113 crore to provide electricity connections to poor, payment of urea subsidies, payment under the Mahatma

Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme and for national highways.

I would like to draw the attention of the Hon'ble Minister of Health towards setting up of an AIIMS like institution in the state of Karnataka. My next point is about introduction of special schemes for development of backward regions such as

Chitradurga district as it is lagging behind in terms of economic development. I urge the union Government to look into the issue regarding employees' opposition to investment of NPS funds in the stock market. PROF. RICHARD HAY: Indian economy has risen from doldrums to acquire the tag of being the fastest growing economy in the world. India is also emerging as the fastest growing knowledge economy. Demonetization was a revolutionary step taken to cleanse the economy from the curse of black money, fake notes and corrupt practices. GST is a big mantra to ensure co-operation federalism, indirect tax reform and ease of doing business. Inflation is in control, health care, transport, power are all given top priority.

DR. SHASHI THAROOR: We are concerned about the fiscal deficit. The

Government has said that they would hold it to 3.2 per cent of GDP but we know, by October already they have spent 96.1 per cent of the full year target. I think the

Finance Minister would like to honestly come level with us as to what exactly our new revised fiscal deficit target ought to be. The Comptroller and Auditor General has highlighted several flaws in the Union Government's accounting procedures.

In the financial year 2015-16, they have talked about an understatement of both the fiscal deficit and the revenue deficit in that year. It would be enlightening if the hon. Finance Minister would clarify the exact position on that. In my own

Constituency, we have seen the horrors of cyclone Ockhi. So far the Kerala

Government has made a request for Rs.7340 crore. Tamil Nadu Government has also submitted a request for Rs.9000 crore. I would request the hon. Finance

Minister to move an amendment to his Supplementary Demands for Grants granting an additional financial package for the victims of cyclone Ockhi. We are still unable to prevent our people from losing their lives by going to sea on the eve of a cyclone. Hence, the Government should participate in international system known as the Joint Typhoon Warning System. Moreover, people from the fishing community should be imparted training so that they may be available to go out at a moment's notice when their fellow fishermen are lost at sea. The funds earmarked for MNREGA in the Supplementary Demands for Grants need to be increased substantially so that pending wages may be paid to MNREGA workers. Besides, the funds required for improving the air quality of Delhi have been completely neglected in the Supplementary Demands for Grants. The Ministry of Women and

Child Development and the Ministry of External Affairs have also been allocated meagre funds. The case of the Reserve Bank of India pensioners need to be addressed properly. I would also like to request the hon. Finance Minister to put a

Supplementary Demands for Grants for the Pradhan Mantri's Adarsh Gram Yojna.

Thus his Government and its Budget are really name changing and they are not game changing. They are not changing the game for our people at all.

SHRI SHRIRANG APPA BARNE: I support the Supplementary Demands for Grants. Hon. Minister of Finance should make announcement about sanctioning of amount for cleaning and maintenance of Pavna River in

Supplementary Demands. The Government is required to complete unfinished work after conducting investigation in Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna.

Madam, various tourist places fall under my constituency-Maval, but proper maintenance cannot be done due to the shortage of funds in the Budget. The

Government should make provision for funds in Supplementary Demands for

Grants for the maintenance of my constituency Maval. The necessary funds should be provided for conducting survey for construction of a tunnel in Lonavala-

Khandala-Khopoli Ghat area under the Supplementary Demands for Grants. Funds should be provided for escalators at Lonavala, Panvel and Khargar stations for the convenience of passengers in Supplementary Demands. Necessary funds should be provided for third and fourth track between Pune and Lonavala. I demand the

Government to increase the MPLADS funds upto Rs 20 Crores. Arrangements should be made for free education to the children of farmers. The Government should set up fund for farmers.

SHRI NITYANAND RAI: Today, the people of this country have got such a Prime Minister who has emerged as angel and massiha for them. The data quoted by the Opposition is four years old. But the way the people has given mandate to this Government shows that this country is on the growth trajectory. The welfare schemes of the country are evident that the country is marching towards development. But these people who had given the slogan for the poverty alleviation have meted out ill-treatment to the poor. The leaders from Congress have made the condition of this country pitiable. This Supplementary Demands for

Grants intends to provide funds for irrigation, for providing electricity to each and every household and to supplement the Ujjwala scheme and MUDRA bank.

SHRI BHAGWANT MANN: The farming sector of Punjab has been reeling under crises for several years. Hence, a bailout package should be provided to Punjab to come out the crises. A national level policy should also be framed to handle the issue of stubble burning. At the same time, the funds meant for pre- matric scholarship and post-matric scholarship should be released. A factory of diesel engine is being closed down in Patiala and from today thermal power plant situated at Bhantinda will be closed. Moreover, two units of Ropar Thermal Power

Plant will also be closed. Hence keeping the industrial crisis of Punjab in view, such steps should not be taken. The funds being given under Pradhan Mantri Awas

Yojana should reach the needy person. I would like to say that if food processing industry is set up in Punjab, it is bound to succeed in a big way as we have very fertile land in Punjab which will produce hugely whatever seeds are sowed. Two international airports at Amritsar and Chandigarh are required to be developed as international airports in true sense.

SHRI A.T. NANA PATIL: The Government is trying to reduce the fiscal deficit through economy measures in all the fields. "Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli

Har Ghar Yojana" is certainly a appreciable scheme. The development work of Highways cannot be stalled in the country. The Government had to make budgetary provision for the development of Highways through Supplementary

Demands for Grants. The Government has to undertake certain measures in large interest of the society. The recommendations made by the Seventh Pay

Commission were implemented this year. I support all the measures taken and

Supplementary demand introduced by the Government.

SHRI SURESH C. ANGADI: The whole world is focusing on the Indian economy. Under the Ease of Doing Business, the regulatory environment has an important impact on the business development. Low regulatory burden means, the entrepreneurs can devote their time and produce more. The World Bank has released 'Ease of Doing Business' ranking list in 2018, where India has been ranked at 100th position among 190 economies. I would like to congratulate our hon.

Prime Minister and our hon. Finance Minister for achieving the goal of providing better economy to the country. I would like to request hon. Finance Minister and hon. Prime Minister to give special grants for all the irrigation projects of

Karnataka.

SHRIMATI APARUPA PODDAR: It is Second Batch of the

Supplementary Demand for Grants for 2017-2018. The Government expects a total of Rs. 66.113.44 crore. These also include funds to provide electricity connections to poor and payment of urea subsidies. The Government should bring in some transparency in the devolution of funds under MNREGA. Financial support from the Centre through the devolution of funds is an important aspect of federalism.

West Bengal is ahead of target in achieving household electrification. The

Government launched the Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yonja (Saubhagya)

Scheme to ensure last mile connectivity and electricity to all un-electrified household. Whether the Discoms can function effectively under the Scheme need to be assessed by the government. The Saubhagya scheme's budget at its launched was 16.320 crore. The economy of the country has recently undergone drastic changes. From demonetization of GST, the ramification of these economic decisions can still be felt. I request the Government to assess in detail the effects of these decisions on each sector so that solutions specific to each sector can be provided.

SHRI SIRAJUDDIN AJMAL: Our first demand is funds for rehabilitation of flood and erosion victims of Assam. We demand at least Rs.1000 crore for this purpose. Another demand is funds for mitigation of flood and protection to river bank erosion of Brahmaputra and its tributaries. At least Rs.20,000 crore should be given for this purpose. Another demand is funds for road and railway connectivity in Barpeta, Bongaigaon, Dhubri and Goalpara. Another demand is opening of Ashok Paper Mills at Jogighopa in Assam. Another demand is funds for revival of all sick industrial units of Assam, and funds for providing clean drinking water to the people of arsenic and fluoride affected areas of Assam.

Another demand is fund for establishment of medical colleges, engineering college, agriculture college and fishery college in the districts of Dhubri, Barpeta,

Bongaigaon, Goalpara and Karimganj. Another demand is funds for construction of Dhubri-Phulbari bridge over river Brahmaputra. Another demand is reopening of Rupshi Airport. Besides, I demand for reopening of International River Port of

Dhburi.

SHRIMATI JAYSHREEBEN PATEL: I would like to express my views regarding Supplementary Grants for Grants of 100 ministries for the year 2017-18 presented by Hon'ble Minister Shri Jaitley NDA Government in the leadership of

Shri Modi has made new efforts for Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas. Benami Property Bill has been presented. GST Bill have set up a new place for New India. Modi

Government has made new history with these steps. Target oriented foreign policy has earned good respect in new international arena. 64 to 65 crore Rs. have been distribution to Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for Senior Citizens.

This is good step. A new Vayoshri National Scheme has been started for senior citizens in the year 2017. It is a welcome step. For health sector Government has started a New Health Policy. 150 crore Rs. has been provided for AIIMS like

Institutions. 93 projects have been identified under Pradhan Mantri Sinchai

Yojana. For cross entry pipelines there has been requested for funding capital grants feasibility difference since it is develop with GSPL. Doubling of Railways lines should be done. New trains should be started and new train routes should be expanded. 400 railway stations should be developed on PPP basis and Sabarmati

Railway Station should be developed. In Dbolera Aerospace and defence maning parks should be started. In Gujarat State Meditet Barks should be established.

SHRIMATI ANJU BALA: The year 2017 as a significant year for the

Ministry of Finance. The Moody's Investors Service has raised the local and foreign currency rating of India after 13 years. Consequently, India's rank in World

Bank's Ease of Doing Business' Index rose upto 30 position and Demonetisation brought about clear-cut transparency in the financial system. The country managed to improve her slow growth rate. At the second quarter of financial year 2017-18, the GDP was 6.3% against its 5.7% of the first quarter. GST ensures transparency and accountability. It has also streamlined tax rates. The obstacles in the inter-state transactions have been removed. It has paved the path of setting up common market. In order to strengthen the Banks, the bedrock of our economy, the

Government took the decision for recapitalization of Public Sector Banks (PSB) to enable raising recovery of debts and generate employment. The Government made some legal amendment for recovery of bad debts and settle disputes related therewith. In order to sort out cases of insolvency and bankruptcy, Insolvency and

Bankruptcy Code, 2016 was made. The government has constantly raised public expenditure on infrastructure to promote employment and give the growth of economy a new direction. I demand the Government to construct an overbridge at

Sandila and Balamau so that people passing through these areas may be saved from avoid accidents. I also request the government to provide stoppage of Jaipur-

Lucknow Express train at Bilhour. It will create there opportunity of employment also.

SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN YADAV: The Government of Bhartiya

Janta Party is about to complete its 4th year in governance. Hence, the House and the country want to know the extent to which the country has scaled the height of development. The economy of the country is in shambles and there are atmosphere of disappointment and despair everywhere. The price rise continues to grow up and the farmers are still committing suicide.

SHRI RAVINDRA KUMAR RAY: I would like to submit that there is progress in Economy Sector. For this Supplementary Demands for Grants is a very important step. When I started allotting gas connections to my sisters/mothers living in forest area, I asked a single question, how the gas connection is beneficial when other sources like wood etc. is available. They replied we would not like to destroy forests. Fertilizers, Irrigation, Agriculture and animals if all sectors are seen in full 25,000 crores have been allocated directly or indirectly to schemes connected with farmers. Almost 40% amount is given for Agriculture sector. We would like to develop Agriculture sector. I would like to request that like Pradhan

Mantri Sadak Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Sinchai Yojana should also reach directly to farmers. Ponds and canals should be developed. For this M.Ps should help in planning of such schemes. I would like to request that we should raise same cells to monitor Pradhan Mantri Sinchai Yojana during in every panchayat in the coming one year.

SHRI GANESH SINGH: India has an important place among the countries with sound economy. Demonetization and GST are among pre poll reforms made to reform economy. The capital investment rating in India from the world has gained pace for last three years. The measures taken by the Prime Minister to enhance basic facilities have enabled the nation of progress expeditiously. Now every day 18 km of road in constructed here. Rail Network has expanded. Various indigenous air services have been introduced. Water routes are being set up. Crores of youth have got jobs and created self employment through Pradhan Mantri

Kaushal Vikas Yojana. Corruption has been checked. Here I would like to suggest to include some of the beneficiaries who have still been left. The population of other backward classes should be included in the social economic survey conducted in the year 2011.The population of OBC should be published at the earliest. In Madhya Pradesh 18 districts are severely hit by drought. The central

Study Group recommended an amount of around Rs. four thousand crore. This should be given to the state immediately. Additional fund should be allocated for

Lalitpur - Singrauli Rail line. Satna airport is one of the indigenous airports. An amount of Rs. 100 crore should be instantly provided for beautification of its runway and the airport. Fund should be given to construct Dayi Tal Canal of Vargi

Dam. Roads should be constructed under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, on the basis of population of 2011. Satna has been included in the list of smart cities.

The amount to be given for this is very meagre. It should be raised.

SHRI BHAIRON PRASAD MISHRA: I support the Supplementary

Demands for Grants for the year 2016-17 presented in the House. I would request the Government to ensure the transmission of benefit accrued due to slashing of taxes under GST to customer. The petroleum products should also be covered under the GST regime. The budget for Jhansi-Mirzapur and Kherad-Kanpur rail lines in my constituency should be approved in the current year's budget. There is a need for construction of shelter for animals and special grazing lands at every

Nyay Panchayat.

SHRI RAM KUMAR SHARMA: I am feeling very happy that an amount of 35000 crore rupees have been allocated in the Budget for the farmers, labourers and villagers. I would like to express my gratitude towards the Hon'ble Minister of

Finance that he had allocated 20532 crore rupees under the urea subsidy Head.

However, I would like to give a suggestion that the Government should give its benefit directly to the farmers. I hail from Sitamarhi. There roads have been constructed under Padhan Mantri Yojana but bridges could not be constructed due to which people are facing a lot of difficulties. Through you, I demand that certainly a provision should be made in this budget and bridges should be constructed on the roads which are constructed under Pradhan Mantri Yojana.

DR. BHAGIRATH PRASAD: The Supplementary budget for 2017-2018 presented by Finance Minister is a historic budget serving to all sections of our society. An unprecedented move to support farmers is made through Pradhan

Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. The Government of India has activated Krishi Vigyan

Kendras to support and guide the farmers. The budget has focused on the mission of Antyodaya to bring one crore households out of poverty. The budget has appropriately addressed to the quality education and skill development of the younger population of the India. The policy of the Modi Government is reflected in the budget. Sab Ka Saath Sabka Vikas includes proper attention to the poor and the underprivileged. With these words, I support the budget demands as presented by our Finance Minister.

SHRIMATI RITI PATHAK: I convey my thanks for giving me an opportunity to speak on the Supplementary Demands for Grants. I would like to draw the attention towards certain issues connecting to my constituency. I demand that adequate funds should be released to expedite the work on the Lalitpur- Singrauli rail line. Stoppages of the weekly train commencing from Singrauli,

Singrauli-Bhopal Express and Hazrat Nizzamuddin Express should be provided at

Bhadwas, Sadai and Gajrabara and the stoppage of Shantipunj train should be provided at Thavhari (Shahdol). An over-bridge should be constructed at

Bargawan and a waiting lodge should be constructed at Badwas Railway Station.

SHRI DUSHYANT CHAUTALA: I thank you for giving me an opportunity to speak on Supplementary Demands for Grants. Today, our

Government is constructing 28 kms of roads each day. If I talk about Haryana, whenever someone plies his vehicle on that road he has to pay 10% as road tax and

6 rupees per litre as cess and after that 1.25 rupees as toll tax. My demand is that when we are doing so much for the country, the Government should certainly take steps to provide relief to the people from toll tax. Today, in Haryana there are four such districts which are facing shortage of urea. I hope that in the next few days, the Government would take steps to solve this problem. As far as crop insurance is concerned, it has been found that there are several farmers who have applied for compensation, however, most of the applications have been rejected and the farmers whose compensation amount has been received 6 months ago, the banks failed to provide compensation to them also. Through you, I would request that the Government should take action against such banks also which are delaying in giving compensation to the farmers. In this Budget, the Government is providing 1033 crore rupees under Saubhagya Scheme to provide electricity to each household. If the Government is allocating so much of funds then it should work towards providing electricity to every hamlet. The economic condition of workers will improve only when the Government will provide electricity to their fields.

Today the schemes like Make in India, Skill India, Uday, Ujala, Mudra have been launched. Their names sound very good but these are not performing well. The

Government should include the officers and Members of Parliament in these schemes so that these schemes could be effectively implemented and its benefit reach the people. Cases have been registered against 55 thousand farmers in

Haryana and Punjab for stubble burning. If the cases are being registered against the farmers for stubble burning then the first case should be registered against the person who has brought the policy of stubble burning.

SHRI BISHNU PADA RAY: The work which has not been done in the last 50 years, has now commenced in Andaman and Nicobar. Now, the people whose annual income is below 3 lakh rupees can get free treatment of upto 5 lakh rupees and for the retired Government Servants also, this treatment is free upto 5 lakhs rupees. We have enacted the Minimum Wages Act, today the minimum wages is Rs 297/- which will increase to Rs 437/- from 1st of January. For the first time funds have been allotted for Andaman for Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak

Yojana and repairing of Kachcha roads. Two airports have been constructed in Andaman. As we have Panchayati Raj System, my last demand is that an amount of 50 lakh rupees each should be allocated to Pradhan, Samiti and Zila Parishads for development works . Electricity should be provided to around 4311 labourers who are deprived of this facility.

SHRI N.K. PREMACHANDRAN: I oppose the second batch of

Supplementary Demands for Grants. In order to eliminate the possibility of excess expenditure, under-spending, wrong appropriation of money and to have a disciplined Budget system, I feel that proper planning and effective monitoring mechanism are highly essential. Even after the completion of the second quarter are not even able to see an iota of the 'Golden Days of Growth' of the Indian economy. Inflation is rocketing like anything. The joblessness and the non- participation of the labour is also increasing. The Indian economy is in a very bad shape because of the demonetization policy, unscientific implementation of the

GST and uncontrolled hike in the petrol, diesel and the LNG price. Both the NDA

Government and the UPA Government had assured that a revival package would be announced for the F.A.C.T. Unfortunately, this has not come within the purview of this Demand. Regarding Civil Aviation, kindly do not kill Air India by privatization and by way of disinvestment. The Government should give Ockhi rehabilitation package just on the lines of Tsunami rehabilitation package ADV. JOICE GEORGE: I would confine myself to Demand no. 11.

There is a demand for Rs. 7.1 crore for giving subsidies on spices, i.e. for cardamom. But, the unfortunate thing is that during 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2017-

18, the subsidies are pending and they are yet to be paid to the farmers. Regarding

MNREGA, in Kerala, we are not in a position to undertake any material work and asset creation work due to paucity of raw materials arising out of various issues. I urge upon the Government to look into that issue. There is a proposal to have a railway line from Angamaly to Sabarimala. That railway project has been pending since 1996. I urge upon the Railway Minister to expedite the finalisation of the revised estimates for the Sabarimala Railway.

SHRI KAUSHALENDRA KUMAR: Funds allocated under MNREGA for my State are still outstanding. This amount should definitely be released to Bihar.

Even today there is shortage of power in Bihar. Cooperation from the Union

Government is required in this regard. There is need to increase Bihar's quota in urea subsidy. We should make farmers free from burden of loans. They should compulsorily get benefit of minimum support price. There is need to abolish charges like RTGS charges, SMS charges, minimum balance charges etc. which will provide relief to common people. There is need to formulate special industrial policy for backward states like Bihar so that people willing to set industries may get encouraged. Bihar is continuously hit by floods and crores of people get affected due to it. The State Government has presented the demand of Rs. 7636 crore in this regard. I would like to request the Hon'ble Minister of Finance to provide compensation in this regard.

SHRI RAJESH RANJAN: What is the budgetary provision of the

Government for controlling pollution and ensuring availability of pure water?

When will Farakka and Bhimnagar barrage be re-constructed? Unless we de-silt the rivers we cannot protect Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and the country. There is no clear position regarding regularising the staff working on contract basis and Mid-

Day Meal. The Government has forgotten to give special package to Bihar. I request the Government to develop dairy and fishery in Bihar. Tourism should also be developed in Bihar.

DR. SHRIKANT EKNATH SHINDE: The Government has sought the approval of this august house for additional expenditure to the tune of 66,113 crore rupees. Power connectivity is a very important factor to fuel the growth of any country. This is why hon. Prime Minister launched Saubhagya Scheme on 25th

September this year, to ensure electrification of all households in rural and urban areas by December 2018. Another area of concern is our health sector. Cost of treatment is increasing day by day and millions of people are pushed below poverty line due to out of pocket health expenses. Hence, Government needs to heavily invest in the health sector. We must also focus on medical research. But in the Supplementary demands, funding for actual research programs undertaken by ICMR is very meager. Besides, it is very important to bring down the cost of medicines in order to bring down the cost of treatment.

SHRI NARANBHAI KACHHADIA: I would like to state that the farmers are not getting the Minimum Support Price of their produce. The Government will have to implement its policies for the benefit of villages, the poor and the farmers.

It will also have to raise the MPLADS. The Government should ensure that the

Ujjwala Scheme is completed to the best of its ability and the District Collector should provide information in this regard. This Scheme must be completed by the year 2018. The Government should implement the scheme of doubling the railway lines and construction of National Highways in my Parliamentary Constituency

Amreli.

SHRIMATI JYOTI DHURVE: Through this Supplementary Budget, the

Government has enhanced the allocation for Pradhan Mantri Krishi Yojana, Health and Fasal Bima Yojana. The Government has put India on to the path of development by the construction of waterways and implementation of schemes like

Saubhagya Yojana, MUDRA, UDAN, Digital India etc. The Government has also enhanced the allocation of funds for the defence sector and thus strengthened the national security. The Schemes like Ujjwala Yojana, Jan Dhan Yojana and

Namami Gange Project are also commendable. SHRI AJAY MISRA TENI: The NDA Government has taken big economic decision like demonetization, GST etc. and, thus, has earned the confidence of global financial institutions. Because of these policy decisions, the

NDA Government, under the leadership of hon. Prime Minister, has set up infrastructure to make available basic facilities like food, clothing, housing, education, health care, roads, power, potable water to all the citizens in just three years of its functioning.

DR. KIRIT P. SOLANKI: Now-a-days, the Indian economy is attracting appreciation from the entire world including the World Bank, Moody's etc. More than 40 million households will have access to electricity by 31st December, 2018 under Saubhagya Scheme. More focus will be given on the North-Eastern states like Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Moreover, allocation for the healthcare sector will be increased to 2.5 per cent of GDP. A substantial amount was allocated by the Government for SCs/STs in the last budget. But according to the recommendations made by the Rattan Lal Committee a corpus of 34,000 crore should be allocated for them on the basis of households.

KUNWAR PUSHPENDRA SINGH CHANDEL: Adequate budgetary allocation should be made to ensure 100 per cent irrigation facilities at the earliest for the most backward and deprived region Bundelkhand. Moreover, funds should be provided for irrigation facilities in Hamirpur, Mahoba, Banda, Chitrakoot, Jhansi, Jaluan, Lalitpur districts of Bundelkhand region and Chhatarpur,

Tikamgarh, Datia, Sagar, Damoh districts of Madhya Pradesh. 90 per cent subsidy should be provided for sprinkler and drip-irrigation so that maximum area can be irrigated at an affordable cost by consuming less water.

SHRIMATI POONAMBEN MAADAM: This year has been spectacular in terms of some major economic and political events. GST has united the country as a single market. We are moving towards a clean and less cash economy post demonetization. I would request the Government to release all the outstanding and necessary funds for MNREGA to the States. The Government is committed to build one crore houses by 2019. Also, 100% electrification of villages is targeted to be completed by May 1, 2018. It would be good if electrification and doubling of tracks is prioritized for all the existing routes of my constituency. Alongside, I request to augment construction of new lines and the work of gauge conversion not only in Jamnagar but also in the entire state of Gujarat. There is a need to facilitate stringent safety mechanism for women passengers. I would request higher allocation and speeding up of pending infrastructure projects pertaining to my constituency. The Government will connect all villages by roads under Pradhan

Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana by 2019. I request the Government to step up investment for the agricultural sector. I am thankful that the present Government has declared Dwarka, as a heritage city under the HRIDAY Yojana. I request both Civil Aviation Ministry and Tourism Ministry to promote religious tourism and enhance business opportunities through air connectivity of my constituency,

Jamnagar.

SHRI RAKESH SINGH: I would like to start my speech with the sentiments of the common people of the world. India will be the fastest growing economy of the world and China will lag far behind it. The growth rate of Indian economy is likely to remain 8 per cent which will be the highest one as compared to the economies of all the countries of the world. Foreign Exchange Reserve is at an all time high. Besides, all the indicators of stock markets have reached at their peak. At the same time, this Government has taken the comprehensive initiatives to eradicate corruption from India. Policy changes are also being made in order to discourage red-tapism so that the common poor of India may get relief. The report of IMF says that the growth rate of India is likely to remain at 6.7 per cent and the same is likely to be increased to 7.4 per cent in 2018. With these words, I support the Supplementary Demands for Grants.

SHRI ARUN JAITLEY replying said: I am thankful to the hon. Members for taking part in the detailed discussion on the supplementary Demands for

Grants. This Government has set the examples of fiscal prudence and fiscal discipline. When we took over the fiscal deficit was 4.6 per cent and we are committed to bring it down to 3.2 per cent this year. From 2003 to 2008, it was globally a boom period for the world economy. But, then the real challenge comes when there is a slow down. Now, fortunately, in the last few months, there is a visible reversal of that trend. This upward movement is going to help several economies and India is certainly one of the economies which is going to be helped.

At present, the foreign exchange reserve is at a record level of more than 400 billion dollars. The entire last year, the inflation was 2-2.5 per cent. It was mentioned that the export is declining. When there is slow-down in worldwide economy, the purchasing power of the countries come down, thereby, the export of the country also comes down but this trend is also reversing this year. India remains by far the fastest growing amongst the major economies in the world.

Economic reforms started in the year 1991, and its outcome was that the GDP of the country declined in the year 1992. There has been a mention of 5.7 per cent growth rate. When the GST was implemented from 1st July, the manufacturing industries start cutting short the manufacturing in the months prior to July and start selling their old stock which is called de-stocking. All structural reforms have a transient impact. Under rationalisation of subsidy, the subsidy reached the poor people and the affluent have been kept out of it. NPAs increased because of two reasons. The first reason is that because these were defaulters, interest kept building up; and the second reason is that the banks were concealing these amounts. Today the Government is issuing share capital issues of banks of Rs. 2 lakh 12 thousand crore and we are putting this amount in banks through recapitalisation. The Central Statistical Organisations, from time to time, revises the criteria for GDP calculations. They amended the GDP figures in 2014 but with effect from 2011-12. Under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna, 9500 crore rupees were spent during the tenure of the UPA. This year the Government is spending

19000 crore rupees on it. It was criticised as to why petroleum was not brought under GST. There are 5 States in which the Opposition parties are in power, let even a single State Government out of these give the statement that they are ready to bring petroleum under GST. Today the situation is that petroleum is a part of

GST. It will get taxed as GST once the GST Council decides about the hike in petroleum prices, we asked all the State Governments to reduce duty and uniformly the States ruled by the UPA have said that they are not reducing it. This year, the

Central budget has been enhanced to Rs. 64,000 crore for the roads and highways including rural roads. The Railways will get Rs. 55,000 crore boost and then they use other instruments to collect further funds. There were three main aims of demonetization. The flow of currency in the country should come down, we are heading in this direction, taxation base and digitisation should increase and all these three aims are being achieved very well. As regards Air India, you want

Indian tax- payers to continue to foot this Rs. 55,000 crore loss bill. In all such organisations, there is always right time in history to privatise. We have got reasonable amount of money in the State Disaster Relief Fund and the National

Disaster Relief Fund. In the Budget, the SDRF and NDRF fund is approved. The

Government is committed to protecting every depositor in public sector banks. As far as the Bihar and West Bengal case is concerned, the Committees have gone there, their reports will come.

The Resolution was adopted

and

All the Supplementary Demands for Grants - Second Batch, 2017-18 were voted in

full.

THE APPROPRIATION (NO. 5) BILL, 2017

The Bill was passed.

SNEHLATA SHRIVASTAVA Secretary General

© 2017 BY LOK SABHA SECRETARIAT NOTE: It is the verbatim Debates of the Lok Sabha and not the Synopsis that should be considered authoritative.

English and Hindi versions of Synopsis of Debates are also available at http://loksabha.nic.in.