REPORT NO. 206
PARLIAMENT OF INDIA RAJYA SABHA
DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON HOME AFFAIRS
TWO HUNDRED SIXTH REPORT
Action Taken by Government on the Recommendations/Observations contained in the Two Hundred First Report on Demands for Grants (2017-18) of the Ministry of Home Affairs
(Presented to the Rajya Sabha on 8th March, 2018) (Laid on the Table of Lok Sabha on 8th March, 2018)
Rajya Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi March, 2018/Phalguna, 1939 (Saka) Website : http://rajyasabha. nic. in E-mail : [email protected]. in Hindi version of this publication is also available
PARLIAMENT OF INDIA RAJYA SABHA
DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON HOME AFFAIRS
TWO HUNDRED SIXTH REPORT
Action Taken by Government on the Recommendations/Observations contained in the Two Hundred First Report on Demands for Grants (2017-18) of the Ministry of Home Affairs
(Presented to the Rajya Sabha on 8th March, 2018) (Laid on the Table of Lok Sabha on 8th March, 2018)
Rajya Sabha Secretariat, New Delhi March, 2018/Phalguna, 1939 (Saka)
CONTENTS
PAGES
1. COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE...... (i)-(ii)
2. INTRODUCTION...... (iii)
3. ACRONYMS...... (iv)
4. REPORT...... 1-58
Chapter- I Recommendations/Observations which have been accepted by the Government...... 2-22
Chapter- II Recommendations/Observations on which the Committee does not desire to pursue the matter in view of the Government's reply...... 23-41
Chapter- III Recommendations/Observations in respect of which replies of the Government have not been accepted by the Committee...... 42-48
Chapter- IV Recommendation/Observation in respect of which final reply of the Government have not been received...... 49-58
5. RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS — AT A GLANCE...... 59-62
6. MINUTES...... 63-67
7. ANNEXURES...... 69-84
COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE (Re-constituted w.e.f. 1st September, 2017)
1. Shri P. Chidambaram — Chairman
RAJYA SABHA
2. Shri Partap Keshari Deb
3. Shri K. Rahman Khan
4. Dr. V. Maitreyan
5. Shri Shamsher Singh Manhas
6. Shri Derek O'Brien
7. Shri Neeraj Shekhar
8. Shri K. Bhabananda Singh
9. Shri Ram Chandra Prasad Singh
10. Shri R.K. Sinha
LOK SABHA
11. Dr. Sanjeev Balyan
12. Shri S. Selvakumarachinnayan
13. Shri Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury
14. Dr. Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar
15. Shri Ramen Deka
16. Shri Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav
17. Shri Mallikarjun Kharge
18. Shrimati Kirron Kher
19. Shri Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu
20. Shri Kaushal Kishore
21. Shri Ashwini Kumar
22. Shri P. Nagarajan
23. Shri Baijayant "Jay" Panda
24. Shri Dilip Patel
(i) 25. Shri Lalubhai Babubhai Patel
26. Shri Natubhai Gomanbhai Patel
27. Shri Bheemrao B. Patil
28. Shri Mohammed Faizal PP
29. Shri Bishnu Pada Ray
30. Shri Prem Singh Chandumajra
31. Shri B. Sriramulu
SECRETARIAT
Shri P.P.K. Ramacharyulu, Additional Secretary
Shri Rohtas, Joint Secretary
Shri Vimal Kumar, Director
Dr. (Smt.) Subhashree Panigrahi, Additional Director
Shri Bhupendra Bhaskar, Additional Director
Shri Pritam Kumar, Under Secretary
(ii) INTRODUCTION
I, the Chairman of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs, having been authorized by the Committee to submit the Report on its behalf, do hereby present this Two Hundred Sixth Report on Action Taken by Government on the Recommendations/Observations Contained in the Two Hundred First Report on Demands for Grants (2017-18) of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
2. The Two Hundred First Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs was presented to the Rajya Sabha and laid on the Table of the Lok Sabha on 15th March, 2017. After presentation of the Report, the copies thereof were sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs requesting them to furnish Action Taken Notes on the recommendations of the Committee contained in the Report. The Ministry of Home Affairs furnished the Action Taken Notes on the 201st Report to the Committee the English Version on 22nd August, 2017 and the Hindi Version on 21st September, 2017.
3. The Committee has noted that the Statement on the status of implementation of the recommendations contained in the said Report of the Committee has been laid on the Table of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha on 5th January, 2018 in pursuant to the direction of Chairman, Rajya Sabha dated 24th September, 2004.
4. The Committee considered the draft Two Hundred Sixth Report and adopted the same at its meeting held on 8th February, 2018.
5. The Recommendations/Observations of the Committee are printed in bold letters.
NEW DELHI; P. CHIDAMBARAM 8th February, 2018 Chairman, Magha 19, 1939 (Saka) Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs, Rajya Sabha.
(iii) ACRONYMS
BE : Budget Estimate
BPR&D : Bureau of Police Research and Development
CAPFIMS : Central Armed Police Forces Institute of Medical Science
CAPFs : Central Armed Police Forces
CCS : Cabinet Committee on Security
CPC : Central Pay Commission
CRPF : Central Reserve Police Force
CTRC : Central Tibetan Relief Committee
DBT : Direct Benefit Transfer
DCPW : Directorate of Coordination Police Wireless
DEA : Department of Economic Affairs
DFSS : Directorate of Forensic Science services
EAP : Externally Aided Programme
EFC : Expenditure Finance Committee
FFR : Freedom Fighters & Rehabilitation
GNCTD : Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi
GOP : Government of Puducherry
IB : Intelligence Bureau
IBB : India Bangladesh Border
IFA : Internal Financial advisor
INB : India-Nepal Border
IPB : India-Pakistan Border
MHA : Ministry of Home Affairs
MoF : Ministry of Finance
MPF : Modernisation of Police Force
NATGRID : National Intelligence Grid
(iv) NBCC : National Buildings Construction Corporation
NCB : Narcotics Control Bureau
NDRF : National Disaster Response Force
NEPA : North Eastern Police Academy
NIA : National Investigation Agency
NISG : National Institute for Smart Government
NOCs : No Objection Certificates
NSG : National Security Guards
OB : Office Building
OB : Outcome Budget
OCR : Office cum residential
PCR : Police Control Van
PFMS : Public Finance Management System
PoJK : Pakistan occupied Jammu & Kashmir
RB : Residential Building
RE : Revised Estimate
RGI : Registrar General of India
SAP : State Action Plan
SRE : Security Related Expenditure
SRE : Security Related Expenditures
SVPNPA : Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy
UCs : Utilisation Certificates
(v) REPORT
The Action Taken Report of the Committee deals with the action taken by the Ministry of Home Affairs on the recommendations contained in the Two Hundred First Report of the Committee on Demands for Grants (2017-18) of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Two Hundred First Report was presented to Rajya Sabha/laid on the Table of Lok Sabha, on 15th March, 2017.
2. Action Taken Notes as received from the Ministry of Home Affairs in respect of the recommendations contained in the Two Hundred First Report have been categorized as follows:
Chapter I: The Recommendations/Observations, which have been accepted by the Government: Para Nos. 2.2.6, 2.3.4, 3.1.5, 3.3.4, 4.6.19, 4.9.4, 4.12.6, 5.1.5, 5.1.7, 5.2.5, 5.5.2, 5.7.3, 5.7.7, 6.2.7, 6.2.9, 6.2.12, 6.3.3, 6.4.3, 6.4.4, 6.6.2, 6.6.3 (of Two Hundred First Report) Total recommendations- 21
The Committee is pleased to note that the Ministry has accepted its recommendations as mentioned in Chapter-I of the Report.
Chapter II: The Recommendations/Observations which the Committee does not desire to pursue in view of the Government's replies: Para Nos. 2.3.3, 3.4.8, 3.5.3, 3.7.2, 3.8.3, 3.10.3, 4.1.6, 4.4.5, 4.5.3, 4.6.4, 4.7.4, 4.8.7, 4.9.8, 4.12.3, 4.12.4, 5.2.9, 5.3.2, 5.3.5, 5.7.2, 5.7.6, 5.7.9, 6.7.4 (ibid) Total recommendations - 22
The Committee is convinced with the explanations furnished by the Ministry and, therefore, does not want to pursue the recommendations further.
Chapter III: The Recommendations/Observations in respect of which the Committee is not satisfied with the replies of the Ministry: Para Nos. 3.4.9, 4.6.20, 4.8.6, 4.9.5, 5.4.2, 5.6.2, 6.5.5 (ibid) Total recommendations - 7
The Committee expresses its concern over the non-implementation of its recommendations contained in Chapter-III and desires that the Ministry should furnish convincing action taken steps in respect of those recommendations.
Chapter IV: The Recommendations/Observations in respect of which final replies of the Government have not been received: Para Nos. 2.2.7, 3.4.7, 3.6.7, 3.6.8, 4.2.4, 4.3.3, 4.3.4, 4.8.5, 4.9.7, 5.2.7, 6.1.2 (ibid) Total Recommendations - 11
In respect of recommendations in Chapter-IV, the Ministry has either furnished interim reply or couched its response in vague terms. Therefore, the Committee desires that the Ministry should furnish pointed and detailed Action Taken Notes in respect of the recommendations categorized in Chapter-IV in keeping with the spirit of the recommendation.
3. The details of the ATNs have been analyzed in the succeeding chapters. 2
CHAPTER - I
RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS WHICH HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED BY THE GOVERNMENT
1.1 OVERALL ASSESSMENT OF DEMANDS FOR GRANTS
Recommendation
1.1.1 The Committee has noted a nominal increase of 5.24% in allocation under the Demand No. 46 (MHA) and 6.43% in allocation under Demand No. 48 (Police) as compared to the allocation made in RE 2016-17. The Committee feels that this nominal increase may not be even sufficient to offset the impact of higher wages due to the 7th Central Pay Commission’s recommendations and higher costs due to normal inflationary pressures. Moreover, the allocation under Demand No. 48 (Police) is 23% lower than the amount projected by the Ministry. The Committee feels that this shortfall of nearly ` 23,526 crore may severely hamper the operations of the security forces and impede the operations of police and border infrastructure in the country. The Committee recommends that the Ministry of Home Affairs, in view of the imminent necessity of strengthening the border and internal security of the country, should pursue the Ministry of Finance for higher allocations at RE stage. (Para 2.2.6 of 201st Report)
Action Taken
1.1.2 Ministry of Home Affairs is directly responsible for budgetary allocations provided under two major Grants viz. Grant No. 46-Ministry of Home Affairs and Grant No. 48-Police. Allocations under these two Grants are made for the following purposes:
1.1.3 Grant No. 46-MHA contains provisions mainly for MHA Secretariat, Registrar General of India (RGI), Department of Official Language, schemes related to Disaster Management, Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme, Relief and Rehabilitation and Grants-in-aid to State Governments for various other schemes.
1.1.4 Grant No. 48-Police contains provisions mainly for Central Armed Police Forces and a number of investigative and intelligence gathering organizations which play a major role in meeting the internal security concerns. It also has provisions for various construction activities of Central Para Military Forces and other Central Police Organizations and also for strengthening India's Borders with its neighboring countries.
1.1.5 Division-wise Action Taken Replies on the recommendation of the Standing Committee are as under:
Union Territory Division-
1.1.6 The allocation has been made keeping in view of the requirement of funds during the year. However, keeping in view the progress of expenditure and additional requirement, the additional allocation will be considered at RE Stage.
2 3
Internal Security-I Division-
1.1.7 Overall projections were made in BE 2017-18 including the excess provisions towards committed liabilities against final outcome of 7th CPC recommendations and constructions of various projects under Capital Head i.e. major works of IB, NIA and NATGRID.
1.1.8 In respect to NATGRID, the deployment of a secure IT solution can only commence after the construction of NATGRID's own infrastructure at New Delhi and Bengaluru. NIA also projected increase in the major works. But, current allocation does not seem to affect the operation and infrastructure of the NIA. However, additional funds will be sought at the RE stage to meet the requirements including the contractual obligations.
Police-I Division-
1.1.9 In respect of Demand No. 46, in RE 2016-17, ` 4.00 Cr. was provided. Now, in BE 2017-18 ` 3.5 Cr. has been provided under Demand No. 46, which is a decrease of 12.5% in comparison to RE 2016-17. However, it is submitted that the allocation under this head is meant for police medals being fabricated through Govt. Mints and is considered sufficient. In case additional funds are required then a demand will be placed at RE Stage.
1.1.10 In respect of Demand No. 48, ` 324 Cr. was provided in RE 2016-17. Now in BE 2017-18, ` 417.01 Cr. has been provided which is an increase of 28.70% in comparison to RE 2016-17. The funds are provisioned for meeting Revenue and Capital expenditure for Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA), North Eastern Police Academy (NEPA), Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
1.1.11 All possible efforts will be made to fully utilize the allocated funds through periodic monitoring of expenditure and ongoing projects.
Police-II Division-
1.1.12 The allocation under the head Salaries, Office Building (OB), Residential Building (RB) and CAPFIMS for BE & RE 2016-17 and BE 2017-18 is given below:
(` in crore)
Head BE 2016-17 RE 2016-17 BE 2017-18
Salaries 41407.47 44030.78 44986.97
Infrastructure:
Office Building 1657.29 1536.39 1769.03
Residential Building 901.54 794.82 1591.10
CAPFIMS 34.99 6.00 150.00
Sub Total Infrastructure 2593.82 2337.21 3510.13 4
1.1.13The BE 2017-18 allocation under the heads Salaries and Infrastructure, viz. Office Building and Residential Building are 2.17% and 51.81%, respectively higher than the BE 2016-17 allocation. The projection by MHA under these heads were `47,722.10 crore and `6001.76 crore against which `44,986.97 crore and `3,510.13 crore have been allocated in BE 2017-18.
1.1.14The recommendation of the Committee has been noted and the matter of providing additional funds, if required by CAPFs, including under head salary to offset impact of higher wages due to 7th CPC's recommendations, will be taken up with Ministry of Finance at the time of Supplementary Demands for Grants and Revised Estimates stages.
Border Management Division-
1.1.15The allocation of funds for strengthening of Indo-Bangladesh Border has been enhanced from ` 550 Crore (2016-17) to ` 900 Crore (2017-18). During 2017-18 for Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) fund allocation has been enhanced from ` 310 Crore (2016-17) to ` 400 Crore (2017-18). Thus it may be seen that there is increase in allocation of funds from 2016-17 to 2017-18. In case additional funds are required at RE stage, the same will be demanded based on the progress of work on the ground.
1.1.15The status of BE & RE of the last two years are as under:
(` in crore)
Border 2015-16 2016-17
BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals
IBB 550 550 527.34 550 550 546.44
IPB 280 280 270.15 310 108.20 110
1.1.17 During 2016-17 for Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB), fund requirement has been reduced at RE stage as in the light of Recommendations of Madhukar Gupta Committee Report on IPB, some projects are being reviewed and being re-prioritized. There was also cross border firing in Jammu due to which some works have been affected.
BUDGET DIVISION
1.1.18The recommendations of the Committee for taking up the matter of higher allocation of funds with Ministry of Finance in view of imminent necessity of strengthening the border and internal security of the country have been noted. The matter of allocation of more funds, as recommended, will be taken up with the Ministry of Finance at appropriate level during Revised Estimations Stage for the Financial Year 2017-18.
Recommendation
1.2.1 The Committee also notes that some Divisions were unable to completely utilise the funds even after the substantial cuts at RE stages imposed by the Ministry of Finance. The Committee feels that this is quite inexcusable as failure to absorb the funds even after surrendering nearly 40-60% of the budgetary allocations at RE stage is an indicator of underperformance. The Committee, therefore, 5 recommends that the Ministry of Home Affairs must explore innovative solutions, prepare flexible and workable action plans, consistently meet all deadlines, and develop strategic alternatives wherever the current strategy may not yield the intended results so as to achieve the desired physical and financial targets. (Para 2.3.4 ibid)
Action Taken
1.2.2 Division-wise Action Taken Replies on the recommendation of the Standing Committee are as under:
North-East Division-
12.3 Funds allocated to NE Division under different schemes in 2016-17 have been fully utilized except for two schemes, namely, the scheme for repatriation and rehabilitation of Bru Migrants in Tripura and Civic Action Programme for North East Region in which amount of ` 24 lakh and ` 20 lakh respectively remained unspent due to non-receipt of UCs from Tripura for 2014-15 and non utilization of fund by security forces.
Freedom Fighter Division-
1.2.4 The funds allotted at RE stage in respect of the schemes under rehabilitation of FFR Division have been fully utilized. The schemes and the allocation and utilization of funds therefore are given below:
(` in crores)
Sl. No. Name of the Scheme Fund allotted in Funds RE 2016-17 utilized
1. Rehabilitation Package for the returnees from Indian 140 140 enclaves in Bangladesh and infrastructure development in former Bangladeshi enclaves in India and Cooch Behar District in West Bengal
2. Relief assistance to SriLankan refugees staying in camps 45 45 in Tamil Nadu & Odisha
3. Grant-in-Aid to Central Tibetan Relief Committee (CTRC) 8 8
Jammu and Kashmir Division-
1.2.5 Under the Grant No. 46, an amount of ` 300 Crore was allocated to the FFR Division in BE 2016-17.
1.2.6 The Scheme for providing financial assistance of ` 5.5 lakh per family to 36,384 displaced families of PoJK (1947) and Chhamb (1967 & 1971) was sanctioned by the Govt. of India vide MHA letter dated 22-12-2016. The said financial assistance is to be released to the eligible beneficiaries directly into their Aadhar linked bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode using Public Finance Management System (PFMS). The State Government of J&K was requested to provide requisite details such as the name and Aadhar linked bank account number of the beneficiaries to enable this Ministry to start 6 disbursing the amount. The State Government of J&K was requested to send details of at least 9000 beneficiaries by 29th March 2017 so that the amount earmarked for the scheme in the RE/BE 2016-17 could be utilized. However, the State Government of J&K could provide details of only 481 beneficiaries till 29th March 2017 after verification of their records. The list of these beneficiaries was uploaded on the PFMS on 29-03-2017. During automatic verifications by banks through PFMS, given bank accounts of only 175 beneficiaries were found to be linked with their given Aadhar numbers. Therefore, a total amount of ` 9,33,56,025 [Rupees Nine Crore Thirty Three Lakh Fifty Six Thousand and Twenty Five Only] could be utilized for disbursing the Central Assistance to these 175 beneficiaries during the financial year (2016-17) and remaining amount was surrendered.
1.2.7 To streamline and expedite the process, it has been decided that w.e.f. April, 2017 onwards, a Nodal Officer nominated by the State Govt. of J&K would upload the details of beneficiaries on the PFMS. Based on the authenticated details uploaded on the PFMS, MHA will transfer the amount of assistance through DBT. A meeting has been taken by the Joint Secretary (J&K) on 16-05-2017 to review the progress of implementation of the package wherein the Divisional Commissioner-Jammu, Deputy Commissioner-Jammu and the Nodal Officer of the State Govt. were present. The State Govt. has informed that till 20th May 2017:
- Total 29,068 forms have been distributed to the beneficiaries.
- 10,723 filled up forms have been received by the concerned authorities in the State Govt.
- Details of 3500 beneficiaries have been sent to the Nodal Officer after verification, for uploading on the PFMS. Process for verification of remaining forms is in-progress.
1.2.8 The Nodal Officer has informed that he has uploaded a new list consisting of details of 605 beneficiaries on PFMS on 22-05-2017. The list is under verification by the banking system online through PFMS. This year (2017-18), an amount of ` 300 crore has been allocated under Grant No. 46 w.r.t. above scheme and the J&K Division would strive to utilize the full amount. Demand for additional funds would be raised in First Supplementary, if need arises.
1.2.9 As regards the funds exclusively allocated to J&K Division, there was no cut at the RE stage in the amount allocated to the J&K Division under BE 2016-17.
1.2.10Under Grant No. 46-MHA, ` 536.30 crore was allocated to the J&K Division in BE 2016-17, which was raised to `546.30 Cr at RE stage which is 1.8% higher than the BE. The entire amount has been utilized by the J&K Division.
1.2.11 Similarly, under Grant No. 48-Police, ` 330 crore was allocated to the J&K Division in BE 2016-17, which was raised to ` 1185 Crore at RE stage which is 259% higher than the BE. The entire amount has been utilized by the J&K Division.
Left Wing Extremism Division-
1.2.12LWE Division is handling the following schemes: 7
(` in crore)
Scheme BE 2016-17 RE 2016-17 Actual expenditure
Security Related Expenditure (SRE) scheme for 210.00 210.00 210.00 Fully utilized Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected states
Assistance for Naxal Management 40.00 40.00 40.00 Fully utilized
Civic Action Program 19.00 19.00 19.00 Fully utilized
Media Plan 5.00 5.00 4.98Majority of funds utilized
1.2.13From the above table, it may be seen that the division was able to utilize funds allocated under its various schemes.
Internal Security-I Division -
1.2.14NATGRID- After getting additional funds through re-appropriation, NATGRID has utilized ` 82.84 crore (approx.) against funds of ` 79.00 crore allocated under RE 2016-17. Further, necessary steps are being taken to ensure optimum utilization of funds allocated for the FY 2017-18.
1.2.15IB- IB has incurred expenditure over 94% in FY 2016-17. Further, workable and more effective action plans including periodic field visits are being pursued to ensure to achieve physical and financial targets.
1.2.16NIA - During the financial year 2016-17, the funds were surrendered due to non-allotment of land at Kolkata by the State Government and non-commencement of the construction work in Delhi Residential project due to pending litigation. However, NIA has prepared the workable action plan to ensure full utilization of the funds during the current financial year 2017-18.
Internal Security-II Division-
1.2.17The figures of BE, RE and Actual expenditure incurred during the financial year 2016-17 and the figures of BE 2017-18 pertains to Narcotics Control Bureau under the administrative control of IS-II Division, MHA are as under:
(` in crore)
B E RE Actuals B E
2016-17 2016-17 2016-17 2017-18
105.61 73.40 71.62 123.84
1.2.18The Bureau has utilized the funds up to 98% (approx) against the RE 2016-17. No major savings have been incurred. The funds allotted in BE 2017-18 is as per the requirements of the Bureau to achieve the desired physical and financial targets. 8
1.2.19However, due care is being taken by the Bureau for utilizing the whole allotted funds in the next fiscal year.
Police-I Division-
1.2.20P-I Division utilized 90.12% of funds allocated at RE Stage (against 324 Cr). Further, to achieve the physical and financial targets during 2017-18, this Division has formulated Annual Action Plan and regular meetings are being taken with subordinate organization which will also hold meeting with the executing agencies to achieve the desired targets.
Police-II Division -
1.2.21The allocation and utilization of funds under Office Building, Residential Building Schemes and Central Armed Police Forces Institute of Medical Science (CAPFIMS) with reference to RE 2016-17 are as under:
(` in crore)
Head RE Expdr. wrt RE %age 2016-17 Up to 31.3.17
OB 1536.39 1470.71 95.73
RB 794.82 854.59 100.00
CAPFIMS 6.00 5.28 88.00
TOTAL 2337.21 2330.58 99.72
1.2.22As may seen from the table above, there was no significant under utilisation of funds with reference to RE 2016-17
Department of Official Language-
1.2.23The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs has expressed its concern over less expenditure by many departments even after a cut made in the budget at RE Stage by the Ministry of Finance in the Budget 2016-17.
1.2.24As far as, the department of official language is concerned, the department has fully utilized the budget allocated at RE Stage. It comes to 95% and 98.8% of the plan/non plan budget respectively. The remaining 2% and 5% deficiency is due to the non expenditure by the Cash-I Section because use of budget under certain heads is done by Cash-I Section.
Border Management-II Division-
1.2.25The allocation of funds for Indo-Bangladesh Border has been enhanced from ` 550 Crore (2016-17) to ` 900 Crore (2017-18). During 2017-18 along Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) fund allocation has been enhanced from ` 310 Crore (2016-17) to ` 400 Crore (2017-18). Thus it may be seen that there is increase in allocation of funds from 2016-17 to 2017-18. However, in case additional funds are required at RE stage the same will be demanded analyzing the progress of work on the ground. 9
1.2.26In Financial Year 2015-16 funds allocated on IPB & IBB were almost fully utilized by Border Management Division. However, the status of BE & RE of the last two years are as under:
(` in crore)
Border 2015-16 2016-17
BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals
IBB 550 550 527.34 550 550 546.44
IPB 280 280 270.15 310 108.20 110
1.2.27During 2016-17 for Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) fund requirement has been reduced at RE stage as in the light of Recommendations of Madhukar Gupta Committee Report on IPB, some projects are being reviewed and being re-prioritized. There was also cross border firing in Jammu due to which some works have been affected.
Police Modernization Division-
1.2.28So far as PM Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs is concerned, the allocation and release during 2016-17 under budget head 3601.01.116.01- Strengthening of State Police Organization in respect of Modernization of Police Force Scheme are as under:
(` in crores)
3601.01.01.116.01- Strengthening BE RE Release Saving of State Police Organization
Plan 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Non Plan 595 595 594 1.00
TOTAL 595 595 594 1.00
1.2.29Thus it is concluded that there were no significant savings and reduction of budgetary allocation at RE stage.
1.2.30So far as, Directorate of Coordination Police Wireless (DCPW) is concerned, flexible and workable action plans to achieve planned physical and financial targets, will be prepared.
1.2.31 Provisioning Wing deals with following Five Budget Heads i.e. Arms & Ammunitions, Clothing & Tentage, Motor Vehicle, Information Technology and Machinery & Equipment. Funds allotted under these heads have been utilized fully by the CAPFs.
Registrar General of India-
1.2.32As far as the O/o Registrar General of India (RGI) is concerned, total budgetary allocation in BE 2016-17 was ` 556.21 Crore. Subsequently, at RE Stage and after re-appropriation including supplementary grants was ` 912.26 Crore in Financial Year 2016-17. Whereas, total expenditure including Plan & Non Plan incurred during financial year 2016-17 was ` 901.65 Crore. Thus, total expenditure is 99% of the total allocation and infinitesimal amount has only lapsed. 10
Budget Division-
1.2.33In order to fully utilize the funds made available in BE/ RE, the Ministry is conducting expenditure review meetings with its Budget Controlling Authorities at high level. During the meetings, the underperforming Division is handed out with the time bound tasks. Further, it also enables the Ministry to appropriate the fund from the underutilized head to the needy quarters.
1.2.34However, the recommendation of the committee has been noted down for compliance.
1.3 DEMAND NO. 46
Recommendation
1.3.1 The Committee notes that the cut effected at RE stage in 2016-17 under capital head was due to delays in start of projects, purchase of land and procurement of equipments, and feels that procedural delays and inefficient functioning are the fundamental reasons due to which project implementation suffers and capital funds remain unutilized. The Committee recommends that the Ministry should make sincere efforts to remove all the bottlenecks and procedural delays that have led to surrendering of substantial funds in 2016-17 and ensure that capital funds are fully utilized in the next fiscal. (Para 3.1.5 ibid)
Action Taken
1.3.2 Division-wise Action Taken Replies on the recommendation of the Standing Committee are as under:
Internal Security-I Division-
1.3.3 IB- It is submitted that no cut was made in Plan Expenditure i.e. Capital Head at BE 2016-17 and RE 2016-17 and IB had spent 94% of Plan allocation. However, workable and more effective action plans including periodic field visits are being pursued to ensure it under Plan allocation to achieve physical and financial targets.
1.3.4 NIA- It is submitted that during the financial year 2016-17, the funds were surrendered due to non-allotment of land at Kolkata by the State Government and non-commencement of the construction work in Delhi Residential project due to pending litigation. However, NIA has prepared the workable action plan to ensure full utilization of the funds during the current financial year 2017-18.
Internal Security-II Division-
1.3.5 The Break-up of the funds allotted in Capital head under BE, RE and expenditure incurred during the financial year 2016-17 are as under:
(` in crore)
B E RE Actuals B E 2016-17 2016-17 2016-17 2017-18
33.90 7.00 6.33 45.00
1.3.6 Due to non-approval of OCR (Office cum residential) construction projects at Ahmadabad, Chandigarh and Lucknow by the State Authorities the fund could not be utilized fully. The construction projects of 11
OCRs at all the above places have already been approved by the Competent Authority and accordingly the funds were demanded in BE stage (2017-18).
1.3.7 Presently, the State Authorities have issued NOCs for the construction work of OCRs at all these places and the construction work is in progress. Hence, the full funds are likely to be utilized during the financial year 2017-18.
1.3.8 Sincere efforts are being taken by NCB for utilizing the whole allotted funds under the capital head in the next fiscal year.
Police-II Division-
1.3.9 The allocation and utilization of funds under Office Building, Residential Building Schemes and Central Armed Police Forces Institute of Medical Science (CAPFIMS) during 2016-17 are as under:
(` in crore)
Head BE 2016-17 RE 2016-17 Expenditure as % of expdr. on 31.03.17 wrt. RE
OB 1654.84 1536.39 1470.71 95.73
RB 901.54 794.82 854.59 100.00
CAPFIMS 34.99 6.00 5.28 88.00
TOTAL 2591.37 2337.21 2330.58 99.72
1.3.10There was a cut of 9.80% in RE 2016-17 vis-a-vis BE 2016-17. However, 100% of funds allocated for infrastructure of CAPFs in RE 2016-17 have been utilised. Committee's observation has been noted and due care is taken to optimally utilize budgetary allocation through various mechanisms developed for the purpose.
Border Management-II Division-
1.3.11 The allocation of funds along Indo-Bangladesh Border has been enhanced from ` 550 Crore (2016-17) to ` 900 Crore (2017-18). During 2017-18 along Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) fund allocation has been enhanced from ` 310 Crore (2016-17) to ` 400 Crore (2017-18). Thus it may be seen that there is increase in allocation of funds from 2016-17 to 2017-18. However, in case additional funds are required at RE stage the same will be demanded analyzing the progress of work on the ground.
1.3.12In Financial Year 2015-16 funds allocated on IPB & IBB were almost fully utilized by Border Management Division. However, the status of BE & RE of the last two years are as under:
(` in crore)
Border 2015-16 2016-17
B E RE Actuals B E RE Actuals
IBB 550 550 527.34 550 550 546.44
IPB 280 280 270.15 310 108.20 110 12
1.3.13During 2016-17 along Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) fund requirement has been reduced at RE stage as in the light of Recommendations of Madhukar Gupta Committee Report on IPB, some projects are being reviewed and being re-prioritized. There was also cross border firing in Jammu due to which some works have been affected.
Police Modernization Division-
1.3.14In the FY 2017-18 more effective efforts will be made to remove the bottlenecks of delegation of financial powers to Director of coordination police wireless and appointment of Internal Financial Advisor (IFA) of Directorate of Coordination Police Wireless (DCPW) and procedural delays to ensure utilization of the capital funds.
1.3.15The expenditure under capital head (dealt by Provisioning Wing) was approximately 100% in most of the cases. However, this is noted and instructions will be given to CAPFs, Directorate of Forensic Science Services (DFSS) & DCPW accordingly.
Disaster Management Division-
1.3.16It may be noted that Procurement and Land many a times depend on external factors which are beyond the control of the Ministry. However, the recommendations of the Committee have been noted for future compliance.
Budget Division-
1.3.17Recommendation of the Committee has been noted for compliance. Sincere efforts will be made to remove the bottlenecks and procedural delays that have led to surrendering of funds.
1.3.18However, it is submitted that in order to expedite the expenditure, the Ministry regularly conducts expenditure review meetings at the highest level (viz. Home Minister/ Home Secretary/ Financial Advisor). All the Budget Controlling Authorities of organizations / Divisions are given opportunity to come up with any issues, relating to the expenditure that they may be facing, and then efforts are made to sort out the issues and remove bottlenecks.
1.4 NATIONAL DISASTER RESPONSE FORCE (NDRF)
Recommendation
1.4.1 While examining the projections made under this Demand, the Committee notes that there is a shortfall of ` 231.76 crore in the allocation made to NDRF Head in BE 2017-18 as compared to the demand projected by MHA. The Committee is concerned to find reduced allocation despite very good fund utilization by NDRF during 2016-17. The Committee, in view of proposed expansion plans of NDRF, recommends that MHA must pursue the Ministry of Finance for higher allocation to NDRF at RE stage so as to overcome any financial bottlenecks. (Para 3.3.4)
Action Taken
1.4.2 The projections of NDRF for General Administration and Information Technology was ` 808.02 crore against which the Budget allocation for the year 2017-18 has been ` 598.34 crores. The demands 13 of various Ministries/Departments and organizations for General Administration are considered by Ministry of Finance on the basis of uniform policy and economy instructions etc.
1.4.3 The recommendations of the Committee have been noted and the demand of the NDRF will be brought to the notice of Ministry of Finance (MoF) at RE stage to overcome any financial bottlenecks faced by NDRF.
1.5 BORDER INFRASTRUCTURE AND MANAGEMENT
Recommendation
1.5.1 The Committee is concerned at the state of affairs of construction/upgradation of infrastructure along India-Nepal Border (INB). In Bihar part of INB, only 19.1 km. of roads were constructed throughout the year, while only 21.3 km. of roads were completed in Uttar Pradesh. The Ministry took the plea of pending land acquisition as the reason for this extremely slow pace of construction. The Committee feels that if pace of road construction does not improve then it would take a decade more to complete the construction of roads along INB. The proposal was approved long back in 2010. The Committee is surprised to note that even such important border infrastructure projects are delayed due to the problem of land acquisition and yet the Ministry failed to find a solution to this persistent problem that plagues almost all the border infrastructure projects throughout the country. The Committee feels that the Ministry needs to find a permanent solution to the problem of land acquisition in border areas in the national interest. The Ministry may hold meetings with all the Governments of Border States where land acquisition has delayed implementation of projects and make all out efforts to find a permanent solution to this problem. (Para 4.6.19 ibid)
Action Taken
1.5.2 Steering Committee and Working Group have been formed in the Ministry to regularly monitor the progress and actively pursue the matter with concerned authorities for speeding up the construction works.
1.5.3 The progress of the project is being monitored regularly at highest levels. Regular meetings are held with the concerned State Governments to find a solution to the problems of land acquisition and statutory clearances being faced by them.
1.5.4 Department of Border Management is also exploring all alternatives to expedite execution of work including vacation of stay of Tribunal on work being taken up in Bihar.
1.6 DELHI POLICE
Recommendation
1.6.1 The Committee is worried as to how Delhi Police will be able to manage its operations efficiently with such a huge shortfall of ` 4743.93 crore in allocation in BE 2017-18 as compared to the projected demand to the tune of ` 11093.21 crore. The Committee recommends that the Ministry should direct Delhi Police to utilize the allocated amount judiciously and subsequently pursue the Ministry of Finance for additional allocation at RE stage to offset this huge shortfall. (Para 4.9.4 ibid) 14
Action Taken
1.6.2 Delhi Police has informed that the allocated funds in B.E. 2017-18 will be spent judiciously. Based on the trend of expenditure in the first half of 2017-18, additional funds, wherever required, will be projected in R.E. 2017-18.
1.7 MODERNISATION OF POLICE FORCES (MoPF)
Recommendation
1.7.1 The Committee hopes that the Cabinet Committee on Security will take a broad view of necessity of Modernisation of Police Forces and approve the Umbrella Scheme on Modernization of Police Forces of States and UTs and Security Related Expenditure (SRE) for J&K, North-East and Left Wing Extremism (LWE) Areas. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry should continue pursuing this matter and seek an early approval of CCS so that implementation of Scheme can be started from the forthcoming fiscal itself. (Para 4.12.6ibid)
Action Taken
1.7.2 The present scheme of Modernization of Police Forces (MPF) Scheme has been approved upto 31.03.2017. This scheme has been proposed for continuation by the name "Assistance to States for Modernization of Police" along with other scheme of MHA under the Umbrella Scheme of MPF. These proposals are under consideration of the Government for early approval of CCS.
1.7.3 The MPF Umbrella Scheme has already been appraised by EFC and considered by CoS. As advised by CoS an amended CCS note has been circulated to all stakeholders.
Union Territories
1.8 Overall Assessment
Recommendation
1.8.1 The Committee also notes that some UTs like Daman & Diu and Lakshadweep Islands had to surrender certain amount of funds at RE stage in 2016-17. This not only points towards poor fund absorption capacity and underperformance but also led to grant of lower allocation in BE 2017-18 as compared to BE 2016-17. The Committee recommends that the Ministry must meticulously monitor the fund utilization status of these UTs on a quarterly basis and exhort them to diligently work towards faster execution of projects, whenever they lag behind, so as to achieve better utilization of funds in the first half of FY 2017-18. (Para 5.1.5 ibid)
Action Taken
1.8.2 Recommendation of the Committee has been noted for compliance.
1.9 UNION TERRITORY OF CHANDIGARH
Recommendation
1.9.1 The Committee recommends that in view of the previous track record the demand of the UT of 15
Chandigarh for additional 1298.00 crore must be considered positively at RE Stage and the amount of ` 4312.40 crore, which has been already allocated, may be utilized fully. (Para 5.1.7 ibid)
Action Taken
1.9.2 Recommendation of the Committee has been noted and additional requirement will be reviewed at RE stage keeping in view of requirement of funds and expenditure status.
1.10 UNION TERRITORYS WITH LEGISLATURES
Recommendation
1.10.1The Committee also feels that in comparison to the demand projected by the NCT of Delhi and Puducherry, the BE allocation is meager and recommends that this needs to be substantially enhanced at RE stage as their utilization percentage (above 90%) is also highly satisfactory. (Para 5.2.5 ibid)
Action Taken
1.10.2The fund allocated under the Grant have been pooled into their account by GNCTD and GOP. These funds are released to these UTs on quarterly basis. Both the UTs are UT with legislature and they have separate Public account. Govt. of India is providing only grant to meet the overall gap in resources, grant in-aid in lieu of share in Central Taxes and duties and funding of UT's projects/schemes.
1.10.3However, matter for additional allocation at RE stage will be taken up with Ministry of Finance.
1.11 Union Territory of Daman and Diu
Recommendation
1.11.1 The Committee recommends that the above developmental issues should be duly considered by the Ministry and action be taken on priority basis. (Para 5.5.2 ibid)
Action Taken
1.11.2 Recommendation of the Committee has been noted for compliance. Status of the issues is placed at Annexure - II.
1.12 UNION TERRITORY OF LAKSHADWEEP
Recommendation
1.12.1Regarding the construction of the residential buildings, the Committee observes that ` 24 crore has been allocated. The Committee recommends that proper assessment of the actual shortage of residential houses should be made and all proposed units should be constructed in the fiscal year 2017-18 taking into account that construction of a building takes around 18 months in Lakshadweep and work for some houses has already started. (Para 5.7.3 ibid)
Action Taken
1.12.2The constructions of 97 residential quarters of various types are in different stage in various islands of Lakshadweep and work is in progress. Details of ongoing works of residential building are 16 attached as Annexure IV. Independent of this, process has been initiated to make a proper assessment of actual shortage of residential houses based upon inputs from all departments under the Lakshadweep administration.
1.13 DEVELOPMENTAL ISSUES PERTAINING TO THE UT OF LAKSHADWEEP
Recommendation
1.13.1The Committee notes that there are several vacancies in all Groups of Government services. The UPSC has to fill up the vacancies in groups A & B and for C & D posts the Island administration has to take steps. The Committee suggests that the MHA should coordinate in this regard so that these vacancies are filled up soon. Moreover, as discussed in the meeting of the Committee held on the 16th January 2016 the Committee strongly recommends that the MHA should also take immediate steps to fill the posts of specialist doctors in the Island that have been lying vacant for the past 13 years. (Para 5.7.7 ibid)
Action Taken
1.13.2Action on filling up of vacant posts under the Lakshadweep Administration is going on vigorously. All the vacant posts for which recruitment process is not entangled in any legal issues, are under progress. Some posts are already notified and recruitment tests are going on and for some other posts notification is being issued.
1.13.3It is also to mention that the vacancy positions are regularly being monitored and periodic review meeting is being conducted on 1st Wednesday of each month by Lakshadweep Administration.
1.13.4In order to cope with the acute shortage of specialists and to ensure constant patient care, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is presently deputing 06 specialists as well as GDMOs (General Duty Medical Officers) with PG qualifications (02 in the specialty of Anesthesia and 01 in the specialty of Obst. & Gyane, Paediatics, surgery & Pathology) to Lakshadweep Admn. for a period of 90 days on rotation basis.
1.13.5Separately, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare conveyed its support to the proposal of UTL Admn. to enter into PPP agreement as being already provided at Rajiv Gandhi Specialty Hospital at Agatti for outsourcing the services of 20 specialists in order to provide specialist services to IGH Kavaratti, GH Minicoy, CHS Andrott and CHC Amini. The UTL Administration is working on this proposition.
OTHER ISSUES
1.14 INTERNAL SECURITY ISSUES
Recommendation
1.14.1The Committee does not share the perception of the Ministry that the overall internal security scenario remained under control during 2016. While the terrorism in the hinterland of the country and Left Wing Extremism remained comparatively muted during 2016, the opposite is however true in the case of cross border terrorism in J&K which remained on the boil throughout the year 2016 due to a number of terrorist attacks, and huge upsurge in number of infiltration attempts (364 in 2016 as compared to 17
121 in 2015). A new trend of terrorist violence that is visible is targeting of security establishments of CAPFs and Armed Forces by the terrorists. The Committee is constrained to note that 82 personnel of security forces were martyred last year. At the same time, the Committee is anguished at the vulnerabilities and loop holes in security of the establishments of the Forces exposed by a series of terrorist attacks that occurred in 2016. The Committee recommends that the Ministry must put rigorous efforts to completely stop infiltration from across the border and prevent all types of terror activities in J&K. The security of the establishments of the forces should be tightened and the incidents of attacks on establishments of the forces should not be allowed to recur. In this regard, the Committee reiterates its recommendations given in Para No. 3.1.5 on Pathankot Airbase Attack in its 199th Report on Action Taken by Government on the Recommendations/Observations contained in the 197th Report on Demands for Grants (2016- 17) of the Ministry of Home Affairs which is as under:
"3.1.5Despite the several steps reportedly taken by the Government to strengthen the security measures, it has comprehensively failed to prevent recurrence of such attacks that took place at Pampore, Uri, Baramula, Handwara and Nagrota. The Committee observes that the Government has not learnt any lesson from the Pathankot attack. The Committee, therefore, recommends that there remains an urgent need to further strengthen the security network and plug the serious gaps in security establishment and intelligence gathering/sharing that have come to the fore in the recent attacks." (Para 6.2.7 ibid)
Action Taken
1.14.2 The Government of India in tandem with the State Government of J&K, have adopted a multipronged approach to contain cross border infiltration, which, inter-alia, include strengthening of border management and international Border/Line of Control, and construction/maintenance of border fencing, construction of culverts/bridges on nullahs, equipments for Security Forces, improved intelligence and operational coordination, installation of border floodlight on the International Border(IB) and synergizing intelligence flow to check infiltration and pro-active action against terrorist within the State.
1.14.3In the event of persistent cross border firing, various measures are also taken for convenience of the people residing in the border districts. The affected families are shifted to safer places temporarily in Government and private accommodations and effort is made to provide them with basic amenities like health care, drinking water, power, temporary toilets, sanitation and security, till they return to their homes. Security measures are augmented in border areas and anti infiltration grid is strengthened. Police deployment is made for border villages during the night. Adequate security is provided to the abandoned villages for protection of property. Close coordination among BSF, Army. Police and Civil administration is maintained and a pilot project "Comprehensive integrated Border Management System" has been approved for reverine patches for 24x7x365 surveillance of border area of Jammu.
1.14.4The terrorists have been targeting the security establishments and the security forces while on move. The security establishments and security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir belong to Indian Army, CAPFs and J&K Police. Ministry of Defence has informed that security audit of India Army is carried out periodically and suitable measures are taken to improve the same. As far as CAPFs are concerned, additional measures to strengthen their security are also taken from time to time. As far as J&K Police is concerned, the State Government also periodically augments their security measures. 18
1.14.5With regards to Intelligence gathering and sharing, the Multi Agency Centre at National Level and the Subsidiary Multi Agency Centre at the State Level regularly share all the intelligence inputs related to terrorist movements, their plan and activities with all the stakeholders through quickest possible means.
Recommendation
1.14.6The Committee is aware of the disturbing trend of recruitment and training of local youth by the militants in the light of the numerous infiltration attempts foiled by the security forces. There has been a rise in the number of law & order incidents, particularly incidents of stone pelting which seems to have become a regular feature in some parts of Kashmir. Numerous incidents of picketing of police stations and snatching of rifles from police and paramilitary personnel point towards local sourcing of arms. The Committee feels that there is a sinister and complex connection between the simultaneous rise in stone pelting incidents and fidayeen attacks on the establishments of security forces. While the law & order incidents have kept the security forces busy, the militants meanwhile have found time to reorganize themselves and perpetrate terrorist attacks on the forces. The Committee recommends that the Ministry must work towards comprehensively breaking this nexus through a multipronged strategy that encompasses preventing the youth from joining the militant ranks, choking the financing and supply of arms to terrorist outfits and simultaneously launching counter insurgency operations throughout the Kashmir region to identify and capture the existing militants. (Para 6.2.9 ibid)
Action Taken
1.14.7The State of Jammu & Kashmir has been affected by terrorist violence that is sponsored and supported from across the border. The levels of terrorist violence in the hinterland of J&K are linked to the infiltration from across the border. The activities of separatist and militant outfits also remain a challenge in the State of Jammu & Kashmir. Various Security Agencies and the State Government are working in close synergy and taking necessary action against terrorist activities. The State Govt. is also taking action for counselling of youth involved in stone pelting, organising sports and cultural events, holding regular police-public meetings etc.
1.14.8The Government has continuously encouraged policies to mainstream the youth, including providing employment opportunities to wean them away from militancy. Recently Government has also approved following schemes for the employment of youths of J&K:
• Engagement of additional 10,000 SPOs in J&K Police.
• Recruitment of around 5381 personnel in 5 new India Reserve Battalions
• Recruitment of around 1200 personnel in CAPFs and Assam Rifles
1.14.9Besides, the following schemes are also under implementation by respective Ministries/Department for skill development and enhancing the employability of youth from J&K:
• UDAAN: The scheme is being run by the MHA and it aims to provide skill and enhance employability of the youths of J&K. This scheme covers graduates/ 3-years engineering diploma holders and above. 19
• HIMAYAT: The scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development. The mandate under this scheme is to train 1.0 lakh unemployed youths [including school dropouts] from J&K and place them in jobs.
• Special Scholarship Scheme: The scheme is being implemented by the Ministry of Human Resources Development and it aims to grant 5000 fresh scholarships per annum for higher education outside the State to encourage the youths of J&K.
Recommendation
1.14.10 The Committee is constrained to observe that lack of financial resources is becoming a reason for casualty of valuable lives of police and CAPF personnel which are being lost in the battle against Left Wing Extremism. The Committee feels that bullet-proof vehicles would not be safe or sufficient for use in LWE areas. on the other hand, the Ministry feels constrained to procure advanced equipment due to lack of financial resources. In such a scenario, the Committee recommends that the Government should explore the opportunities created by the Make in India programme and develop indigenous vehicles. The Committee also recommends that in the meanwhile, the Ministry should explore other measures including import of suitable vehicles. (Para 6.2.12 ibid)
Action Taken
1.14.11 Sufficient funds have been allocated to CAPFs for procurement of vehicles and advance equipments. The details of funds allocated to CRPF, BSF, ITBP and SSB during last 3 years under Arms & Ammunitions (A & A), Motor Vehicles (MV), Machinery and Equipment (M & E), Clothing and Tentage (C & T) and Information Technology (IT) are as under:
(figures in ` crore)
CAPFs 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
CRPF 903.82 851.16 848.74 993.15
BSF 637.24 657.79 780.84 954.90
ITBP 289.30 279.05 311.25 376.46
SSB 185.65 196.05 156.25 191.20
1.14.12 As per their operational need, additional funds would be allocated to the CAPFs, if required.
1.14.13 At present, Ordnance Factory Board (OFBs) is making the Mine Protected Vehicles for Army/ CAPFs/ State Police Organization under Make in India program and developing the indigenous vehicles as Modernized Mine Protected Vehicles with higher protection level.
1.15 ONLINE REGISTRATION UNDER FOREIGN CONTRIBUTION REGULATION ACT
Recommendation
1.15.1The Committee feels that several organizations which are functioning in the remote parts of the country may not be fully aware about the online process of application and renewal of FCRA registration 20 and wider publicity should have been given to the new process through print and electronic media. The Committee takes note of the fact that a huge number of applications for renewal of FCRA registration are still pending for renewal. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Government may facilitate genuine organizations that could not apply online due to lack of awareness and renew their registrations without further delay so as to help them smoothly run their operations. (Para 6.3.3 ibid)
Action Taken
1.15.2The mandatory on-line submission of applications for registration under FCRA was started in December, 2015 and the same is working satisfactorily. The system is now stabilized. IT systems are to be continuously upgraded and improved.
1.15.3The changed process was notified vide this Ministry's Gazettee No. GSR 966 (E) dated 14.12.2015. The change was also notified on MHA website.
1.15.4The subject of cyber security particularly web enabled services is being done by an expert group. The expert group has since submitted a report on 'Measures for enhancing Cyber Security of MHA by NIC", which is an ongoing process. No hacking, however, came to notice during internal examination of the system by NIC.
1.15.5The renewal of FCRA registration is done under provisions of Section 16 of FCRA, 2010 and rules made there under. So far FCRA registration of over 19,000 associations has been renewed. Over 500 applications of renewal of registration are under process for consideration. More than 21,000 applications for renewal of registration have so far been received. The sudden huge surge of applications was because of implementation of FCRA, 2010; with effect from 01/05/2011, as the Act provided for the mandatory renewal of application after every five years. FCRA Registration of over 14,000 associations has been cancelled mainly on the ground of non-submission of annual returns.
1.16 ONLINE CHILD SEX ABUSE IN INDIA
Recommendation
1.16.1The Committee is anguished to note the severe under-reporting of crimes related to online child sex abuse in India. Firstly, NCRB does not maintain any separate record of cyber crimes against children. Secondly, whatever data is collected by NCRB presently, however rudimentary it may be, provides an insight into the state of law enforcement in the country as it is unbelievable that in most of the States there is no incidence of any online child sex abuse. The data indicates the extremely poor law enforcement in relation to these crimes as it only collects information of reported cases and it fails to give a reflection of true prevalence rate of such crimes as it does not capture the actual number of incidents. The Committee recommends that law enforcement agencies need to be made aware of the challenging aspects of cybercrimes against children and their capacity to record and initiate action against such crimes needs to be urgently strengthened. The Committee also recommends that from 2017 itself NCRB should collate all the instances of online child sex abuse and other cyber-crimes against children under a separate category so that performance of law enforcement agencies on this aspect can be observed. (Para 6.4.3 ibid) 21
Action Taken
1.16.2Presently the NCRB is collecting data on cases registered under section 67B of IT Act (publishing or transmitting of material depicting children in sexually explicit act, etc. in electronic form on annual basis).
1.16.3Crime & Criminal Tracking Network & System (CCTNS) once operational, will generate details with regard to child victims reported under cyber-crimes
1.16.4For the interim period, the NCRB will start collecting data on cases registered under online child sex abuse and other cyber-crimes against children from 2017 on annual basis.
Recommendation
1.16.5The Committee is aware of the fact that child sexual abuse and related crimes remain overwhelmingly under-reported in this country due to associated stigma and propensity of parents/guardians to not involve police in these matters. The Committee feels that the process of reporting such crimes needs to be simplified and identity of children involved be protected to ensure that such crimes do not go unreported. The Committee recommends that the Ministry should work towards enhancing capacities of the police forces and cyber forensic agencies and simplifying and strengthening cybercrime investigations involving children. The Committee also recommends that all States may be requested to create an Online Cyber Crime Reporting Platform under Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children Scheme and publicise it adequately through print, electronic and social media to encourage reporting of such crimes. The Ministry may also provide adequate funds specifically for this purpose under the Modernisaton of Police Forces Scheme. (Para 6.4.4 ibid)
Action Taken
1.16.6Government has approved a Central Sector Project namely Cyber Crime Prevention Against Women and Children (CCPWC) with a total estimated cost of ` 195.83 Crore, out of Nirbhaya Fund during the three Financial Years starting with FY 2017-18. The salient features of the scheme are as follows:
(i) Setting up online cyber-crime reporting platform with an investment of ` 9.48 Crore over the period of 4 years.
(ii) Setting up of one national level advanced cyber forensic laboratory with the estimated cost of ` 37.74 Crore.
(iii) Support to 36 States/ UTs for Police training institutions for upgradation/ creation of training facility for cyber crime investigation training programmes at a total outlay of ` 95.76 crore.
(iv) Capacity building activities to be carried out by using the above training facility for a period of three years at a total estimated coast of ` 14.85 crore.
(v) ` 15.72 Crore for citizen cyber crime awareness activities.
(vi) ` 15.00 Crore for R&D. 22
1.16.7States submit their annual action plans under MPF Scheme to MHA for various components including those relating to cyber crime/ forensics. The same are considered and approved by High Powered Committee in MHA and accordingly funds are released to the States.
1.17 SAFETY OF WOMEN
Recommendation
1.17.1The Committee notes the submission of Delhi Police regarding the status and number of users of Himmat App and feels that this App has failed to serve the purpose for which it was introduced with a lot of fanfare. The Committee finds that complex registration process and non-availability of App in Hindi have restricted the number of users of this App. The fact that the App had only 30821 registered users in a city with a population of almost 19 million reflects upon the comprehensive failure of this App to function as an SOS helpline for the women. The Committee also feels that without adequate publicity among the target group, this App will not be able to see any increase in number of users. The Committee, therefore, recommends that Delhi Police should redesign this App by simplifying it and either remove the registration process or simplify it as much as possible by seeking only the minimum details required. The Committee also recommends that Himmat App must be made available in Hindi as well to enable a large number of women to use this App. (Para 6.6.2 ibid)
Action Taken
1.17.2Delhi Police has informed that keeping in view the recommendations and suggestions of members of the Committee, Himmat App has been redesigned. The latest version of Himmat is more user friendly and the process of registration has been simplified. It contains only minimum details required. In order to increase the reach and use of the app by more women. Himmat is bilingual now and is available in Hindi as well as in English.
Recommendation
1.17.3The Committee also feels that due publicity was not given to this App and better publicity in more unconventional ways and through social media platforms can help increase the number of users. The Committee, therefore, recommends that Delhi Police must hire the services of a private digital marketing agency to publicize this App among the target users, and give a specific target to the agency of achieving at least a million downloads by the end of 2017. (Para 6.6.3 ibid)
Action Taken
1.17.4Delhi Police has informed that an extensive publicity strategy has been chalked out including publicity through social media to increase the number of users. Services of private digital marketing agencies are also being taken for planning better publicity for registration of the App. Detailed advertisement regarding new features of Himmat App and its availability in Hindi and English has been published in Ten English and Twelve Hindi Newspapers on 20.04.2017. 23
CHAPTER-II
RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS ON WHICH THE COMMITTEE DOES NOT DESIRE TO PURSUE THE MATTER IN VIEW OF THE GOVERNMENT'S REPLY
2.1 OVERALL ASSESSMENT OF DEMANDS FOR GRANTS
Recommendation
2.1.1 The Committee takes a very serious view of under utilization of funds in respect of the Plan Schemes of Ministry of Home Affairs throughout the 12th Five Year Plan. Almost every year, several important Divisions of MHA including Border Management, Disaster Management, Police-I, Police-II and Internal Security-I Divisions have surrendered huge amounts of funds at RE stage. In some cases the surrendered funds were to the tune of 50% and above which is a clear indication of incoherent planning, lack of conviction and inefficient functioning of the Divisions concerned. In most of the Schemes/Heads wherein funds were surrendered, the reasons given by the Ministry were mostly related to non-finalisation of proposals, slow progress of construction works and procedural delays. The Committee expresses its displeasure in the strongest terms on this issue and observes that surrendering of funds at RE stage may be seen as a clear measure of inefficiency of and unrealistic budgeting by the Divisions concerned as this has direct ramifications on the country's security and law and order situation. (Para 2.3.3 of 201st Report)
Action Taken
2.1.2 It is submitted that in order to expedite the plan expenditure, the Ministry regularly conducts expenditure review meetings at the highest level (viz. Home Minister/ Home Secretary/ Financial Advisor). The Ministry ensures that the budget controlling authorities of respective organizations / Divisions under its control duly utilize entire plan expenditure allocated for the FY. However, the observations of the Committee have been noted for future compliance. Efforts will be made to remove the bottlenecks and procedural delays that have led to surrendering of funds. Further, judicious assessment of requirement of funds will be made while projecting budget requirement.
2.1.3 In this regard it is however stated that:
(a) In this connection it is submitted that NATGRID had utilized `68.31 crore in Major Works in the Financial Year 2016-17 against ` 60.29 crore in RE 2016-17 by getting additional fund through re-appropriation. However, some funds were surrendered under the budget heads 'Professional Services' and 'Machinery and Equipment' due to delay in on boarding of 22 consultants. Out of 22 consultants, 6 consultants have already joined and another 7 consultants have confirmed their date of joining. The process of finalization of remaining 9 consultants is going on. It is also submitted that after on-boarding of consultants, the activities on development of IT Framework of NATGRID would get expedited, which would lead to utilization of funds under this head in the FY 2017-18.
23 24
(b) Intelligence Bureau (IB) has utilized maximum allocation under 'Capital Outlay' head. In some cases it could not be achieved to its optimum level due to non-utilization of funds by main work executing agencies CPWD/NBCC/PWD. However, during the financial year 2016-17 IB had utilized `56.91 Crore against the `60 Crore allocated at BE 2016-17.
(c) In the case of National Investigation Agency (NIA), during the financial year 2016-17 the funds were surrendered due to non-allotment of land at Kolkata by the State Government and non-commencement of the construction work in Delhi Residential project due to pending litigation.
(d) The allocation and utilization of funds upto RE stage, under these Schemes, including Central Armed Police Forces Institute of Medical Science (CAPFIMS) during the 12thFive Year Plan (2012-17) are as under:
Financial OB & RB CAPFIMS Year BE Exp Till Oct % RE BE Exp Till Oct % RE
2012-13 4255.92 1271.41 29.87 2989.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
2013-14 2874.07 1107.15 38.52 2115.00 193.50 8.48 4.38 21.56
2014-15 3114.47 1371.18 44.02 1885.00 205.73 5.61 2.73 7.62
2015-16 2559.29 1509.50 58.98 2924.00 35.00 0.00 0.00 5.00
2016-17 2558.82 1602.29 62.62 2331.21 34.99 3.57 10.2 6.00
2.1.4 As may be seen from the table above, the average expenditure during the 12th Plan, under OB and RB, was about 46.8% till October 2016 i.e. before finalisation of RE. The utilisation of funds upto October was more than 50% in 2015-16 and 2016-17. As regards Central Armed Police Force Institute of Medical Sciences (CAPFIMS), the allotted funds could not be utilised since the construction work could not start due to the following reasons:
I. The Lay Out Plan approved on 27.8.2014 had to be revised two times:
• irstly on 22.1.2015, due to change of FAR norms by Delhi Development Authority.
• Secondly on 30.11.2015, as Ministry of Environment & Forest informed that about 17 acres of land of CAPFIMS fall under geo-morphological ridge, where construction is prohibited.
II. Delay in getting local body clearances. (a) The allocation of funds for Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB) had been enhanced from ` 550 Crore (2016-17) to ` 900 Crore (2017-18). During 2017-18, along Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB), fund allocation has been enhanced from ` 310 Crore (2016-17) to ` 400 Crore (2017-18). Thus it may be seen that there is increase in allocation of funds from 2016-17 to 2017-18. However, in case additional funds are required at RE stage the same will be demanded analyzing the progress of work on the ground. 25
(b) In Financial Year 2015-16, funds allocated on IPB & IBB were almost fully utilized by Border Management Division. The status of BE & RE of the last two years are as under:
Border 2015-16 2016-17
B E RE Actuals B E RE Actuals
IBB 550 550 527.34 550 550 546.44
IPB 280 280 270.15 310 108.20 110
(c) During 2016-17 along Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) fund requirement has been reduced at RE stage as in the light of Recommendations of Madhukar Gupta Committee Report on IPB, some projects are being reviewed and being re-prioritized. There was also cross border firing in Jammu due to which some works have been affected.
(d) In case of IVFRT, as may be seen from the table below, the utilization of funds has been about 100%:
Financial year Budget Estimate Final Estimate (Revised Actual Expenditure Estimate)
2012-13 50.00 50.00 50.85
2013-14 70.00 70.00 68.80
2014-15 60.00 30.00 29.98
2015-16 60.00 60.00 61.24
2016-17 60.00 60.00 59.20
(e) The allocations under BE, RE & Utilization of funds during the Financial Year 2015-16 & 2016-17 in respect of NDRF infrastructure and National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) are indicated hereunder:
NDRF Infrastructure:
(` in crore)
Scheme FY 2015-16 FY 2016-17
B E RE utilized B E RE utilized
Office 165 9.52 9.52 81.54 80 80.90 Building
Residential Building 90 1.30 1.24 81.55 50 50
TOTAL 255 10.82 10.76 163.09 130 130.90 26
National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP): - (` in crore)
F.Y. B.E. R.E. Exp.
2014-2015 274.67 263.91 260.96
2015-2016 416.00 633.95 628.78
2016-2017 641.92 634.33 634.27
2.1.5 The funds to the extent of ` 244.18 crore were surrendered at RE stage under NDRF infrastructure due to delay in the finalization of Office as well as Residential Building Plan after obtaining the estimates from Public Works Department (PWD). However, in case of NCRMP, there has been a nominal surrender of funds at RE stage. Further, in case of Other Disaster Management Projects (ODMP), the 12th Five Year Plan allocation was for major projects like National Earthquake Risk Mitigation Project, Landslide Risk Mitigation Project and Floor Risk Mitigation Scheme, etc. The Annual Budgets were taken in anticipation of approval for these projects. Since, the projects could not get approval in time; the allocated funds could not be utilized and was surrendered.
2.2 RELIEF AND REHABILITATION FOR MIGRANTS AND REPATRIATES
Recommendation
2.2.1 The Committee is displeased with the fact that against an allocation of ` 340 crore in BE 2016- 17 for Rehabilitation Package and up-gradation of infrastructure of the Bangladeshi Enclaves and Cooch Behar District, ` 200 crore were surrendered at RE stage and even after that no expenditure was incurred by the Ministry upto December, 2016. The Committee is particularly anguished at the reports of these persons living in abject poverty and left to fend for themselves even for most basic necessities. The Committee would like to strongly emphasize the importance of expeditiously implementing this rehabilitation package for the persons who have expressed their faith in India and opted for Indian citizenship with a hope that Government of India will provide them essential facilities and decent means of livelihood and infrastructure. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry of Home Affairs should not let the returnees from Bangladeshi enclaves suffer anymore and should implement the rehabilitation package with utmost sincerity and urgency and, until the package is fully implemented, adequate relief may be sanctioned and provided to them on a continuous basis. The Committee also recommends that the senior officers of the Division concerned may visit the enclave dwellers periodically and review the status of implementation of the package on a regular basis. The Committee may also be kept apprised of this on a quarterly basis till the implementation is completed. (Para 3.4.8 ibid)
Action Taken
2.2.2 The Government has sanctioned a rehabilitation package for up-gradation of infrastructure of the Bangladeshi Enclaves and Cooch Behar District after transfer of enclaves between India and Bangladesh on 02.12.2015 at cost of ` 1005.99 crore. During 2015-16, ` 140 crore was released to State Government of West Bengal. During 2016-17 a provision of ` 340 crore was made in BE. However, no expenditure was reported by the State Government at the time of finalization of RE in September, 2016. Only ` 140 crore was allotted at RE stage due to non receipt of utilization certificate from the State Government 27 of West Bengal. The RE amount of ` 140 crore has since been released to the State Government in February, 2017.
2.2.3 As per the report received from State Government, the returnees have been lodged in temporary shelters and were initially given gruel kitchen for 30 days. Thereafter, dry ration such as rice, dal, salt, milk powder, mustard oil, kerosene oil are being provided to them.
2.2.4 In the rehabilitation package, there is provision of up-gradation of infrastructure such as pucca road, kutcha road, drain, culverts, bridges, mark II tubewell, piped water supply, deep tubewell, primary school, high school, health sub centre, Anganwari centre, household electricity etc. in 51 former Bangladeshi enclaves now integrated in Indian territory. Out of total cost, ` 299.48 crore has been earmarked for up-gradation of infrastructure in these enclaves.
2.3 INFRASTRUCTURE FOR DISASTER MANAGEMENT
Recommendation
2.3.1 The Committee expresses its concern over the non finalization of proposals of NDRF and delay in clearance of infrastructure projects due to which substantial amount of funds were surrendered at RE stage 2016-17. All ground work should have been done before the proposals were made at BE stage. The Committee notes that approval has now been granted and construction has begun. The Committee recommends that the construction work may be fast-tracked and all the infrastructure projects may be completed as per the timeline. (Para 3.5.3 ibid)
Action Taken
2.3.2 The recommendations of the Committee have been noted for future compliance. Instructions have also been issued to NDRF to observe the timelines for strict compliance of the project.
2.4 CIVIC ACTION PROGRAMME AND MEDIA PLAN
Recommendation
2.4.1 The Committee feels that activities under Civic Action Programme and Media Plan can go a long way in ensuring peace in J&K. The Committee, therefore, recommends that all the pending bills of implementing agencies be cleared at the earliest and the Ministry should prepare a revival plan of DD Kashir and earnestly implement it in a time bound manner. Efforts should be made to revive DD Kashir at the earliest. (Para 3.7.2 ibid)
Action Taken
2.4.2 This Ministry agrees that activities under Civic Action Programme and Media Plan will go a long way in ensuring peace in J&K.
2.4.3 Regarding Civic Action Programme, it is mentioned that J&K provides funds to CAPFs in advance for implementing the various programmes. Therefore the question of pendency of bills with the Ministry does not arise. The budget of 2016-17 for Civic Action Programme has been fully utilized. CAPFs are required to submit the Utilization Certificate(s) in this respect within one year period i.e. till March 2018. 28
2.4.4 Regarding DD Kashir, it is mentioned that in consultation with Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Director General Doordarshan, a plan has been formulated for the revival of DD Kashir. Accordingly, during 2016-17, `54.29 Crore has been released by MHA for DD Kashir. Out of this `41.55 Crore was for new programmes and remaining amount was for clearing pending bills of DD Kashir.
2.5 CENSUS, SURVEY AND STATISTICS/REGISTRAR GENERAL OF INDIA
Recommendation
2.5.1 The Committee takes strong exception to poor utilization of funds by the Ministry under the Head Census, Survey and Statistics/Registrar General of India. In some plan schemes, particularly GIS Based Town Mapping and Improvement in Vital Statistics System, the utilization by mid February 2017 was quite low. Under the GIS Based Town Mapping scheme, out of the BE allocation of ` 5.31 crore, the Ministry was able to spend only ` 4 lakh and nothing could be spent out of the ` 49 lakh allocated for Training Unit. This shows poor handling of the schemes. The Committee fails to understand such poor utilization of budgetary allocation and feels that the Ministry is not serious about implementing these schemes. The Committee recommends that the Ministry should improve its fund absorption capacity under this head and remove all procedural delays that inhibit the performance of the Division concerned. (Para 3.8.3 ibid)
Action Taken
2.5.2 There are 6 (six) Schemes under the aegis of office of the Registrar General, India (ORGI) out of which the Committee's concerns on poor utilization of fund is particularly for GIS Based Town Mapping, Improvement in Vital Statistics and Training Unit. The reasons for under- utilization are as under:
(1) GIS Based Town Mapping: - The Committee's observations regarding GIS Based Town Mapping and Improvement in Vital Statistics System for low utilization of the fund has been considered. Primarily these kind of GIS Based Town Mappings are proposed to be done through Govt.-owned Universities. This could not be conceived properly and technically. Therefore, it was not possible to utilize the funds. Considering the circumstances, ORGI decided to reduce the fund at RE Level. In RE, ` 60 Lakh was kept for expenditure, out of which ` 48.83 Lakh (81%) was spent. Therefore, overall expenditure is within reasonable limit.
(2) Improvement in Vital Statistics System: The total fund allocated in BE was ` 49.24 crore which was reduced at RE Stage to ` 29.40 crore. This might have been due to not following the pace of expenditure equally in the initial month of the Financial Year. This was mainly due to the revamping of Schemes viz. CRS & SRS under the Improvement in Vital Statistics System and the Technicalities relating to thereof. However, the fund at RE Stage was utilized satisfactorily (94%) as ` 27.51 crore were utilized out of ` 29.40 crore at RE Stage.
(3) Training Unit: - The Training Unit in ORGI generally undertakes the responsibility of enhancing the internal capacity of the Employees for Capacity Building and in particular it coordinates 29
the training activities during decennial Census. Since, it was non-Census period hence only few trainings of its employees could be undertaken. Moreover, the whole training unit in ORGI is in process to revamp the Training Unit. It is in process to develop training module, structure and architecture of training with the help of training experts. The performance of remaining Schemes namely NPR, MTSI and Modernisation of Data Dissemination activities is quite satisfactory. However, the concern of the Committee has been noted and will be scrupulously followed to effectively anticipate the required expenditure and take corrective measures at regular intervals. ORGI ensure continuous follow up and interaction with the State Government for optimum utilization of fund in the future.
2.6 HOME GUARD
Recommendation
2.6.1 The Committee is constrained to note the poor state of the Home Guards throughout the country. The Committee is deeply anguished to note that some of the States are paying duty allowance as low as ` 60per day to the Home Guards. This is despite the Supreme Court's order on increasing the duty allowance of Home Guards to minimum of the pay to which the police personnel are entitled. The Committee is not satisfied with the reply of the Ministry that it does not have details of implementation of the Supreme Court's order by the States. The neglect of this issue by the Ministry is reflective of corresponding neglect of the Home Guards by the States. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Centre should compile and maintain State-wise data of duty allowance being paid to the Home Guards and strive towards bringing uniformity in the rates of duty allowance paid by the States. The Committee also recommends that the Ministry should direct the States to implement the Supreme Court's order in letter and spirit. (Para 3.10.3ibid)
Action Taken
2.6.2 Home Guard is a State subject and the daily allowance to the Home Guards is paid by the respective States/UTs as per their rules. Director General (Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards) in the Ministry of Home Affairs has taken up with the States/UTs for collection of State-wise data of duty allowance and other allowance paid by the States/UTs vide their letter dated 17.3.2017.
2.6.3 Director General (Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards) vide letter dated 24.4.2017 has invited the attention of the Chief Secretaries of all States/UTs towards poor status/duty allowance of Home Guards and requested them to implement the Hon'ble Supreme Court's orders in letter and spirit and to increase the duty allowance of Home Guards.
2.7 DEMAND NO. 48- POLICE
Recommendation
2.7.1 The Committee notes that only ` 5897.24 crore have been utilized (till 10th February, 2017) under capital head of Demand No. 48 which is only 62% of the amount allocated at RE stage in 2016-17. The Committee apprehends that the Ministry may not be able to utilize the remaining ` 3611.45 crore fully by the end of the current fiscal year. The Committee, therefore, recommends that in future efforts 30 should be made to utilize the outlays fully under capital head, viz., creation of Police infrastructure and also on Revenue Head on Modernisation of Police Forces and SRE. (Para 4.1.6 ibid)
2.7.2 Division-wise Action Taken Replies on the recommendation of the Standing Committee are as under:
North East Division
2.7.3 During FY 2016-17, no fund was allocated to NE Division under capital head of Demand No. 48 -Police. However, ` 300 Cr. was allocated at BE 2016-17 under SRE Scheme for NE States of Demand No. 48 and this amount has been fully utilized.
Jammu and Kashmir Division
2.7.4 As far as J&K Division is concerned, it has utilized the entire amount allotted under Grant No. 48- SRE (police). During 2017-18, under Grant No. 48— SRE (police), ` 330 Crore was allotted to the J&K Division in BE 2016-17, which raised to ` 1185 Crore at RE stage which is 259% higher than the BE. The entire amount of ` 1185 Crore has been spent under SRE (Police) till March, 2017.
Union Territory Division-
2.7.5 Under Capital Head, out of the total allocated amount of ` 309.07 Crore at RE stage in 2016-17 to Delhi Police, an amount of ` 296.42 Crore (96%) has been utilized upto 31.3.2017. The Scheme implementing Units in Delhi Police have been directed to make all possible efforts to complete the proposals/ projects within the time frame for optimum utilization of allocated funds during the financial year 2017-18.
Left Wing Extremism Division-
2.7.6 LWE Division is handling the following schemes under Demand No. 48:
(` in crore)
Scheme BE 2016-17 RE 2016-17 Actual expenditure
Security Related Expenditure (SRE) 210.00 210.00 210.00 scheme for Left Wing Extremism Fully utilized (LWE) affected states
Assistance for Naxal Management 40.00 40.00 40.00 Fully utilized
2.7.7 From the above table, it is clear that the division was able to fully utilize funds allocated under its various schemes.
Internal Security-I Division-
2.7.8 NATGRID- NATGRID has utilized ` 82.84 crore out of the funds of ` 79.00 crore allocated under RE 2016-17, whereas NIA has utilized ` 51.94 crore against RE of ` 52.00 crore and IB has utilized ` 56.91 crore against ` 60.00 crore of allocated amount. 31
2.7.9 NATGRID has been allocated ` 122.27 crore in BE 2017-18. Following actions are being taken for optimum utilization of funds in FY 2017-18:
(i) Construction of NATGRID Infrastructure including Data Centres:
• NBCC has reported completion of 100% civil construction at Bengaluru as on 31.12.2016. Also NBCC has noted around 45% completion of civil construction at Andheria Mod, New Delhi as on 31.03.2017. Further, NBCC has initiated the process of selection of bidder for interior furnishing of Data Centres. The evaluation of Expression of Interest of bids is under process.
(ii) On-boarding of Consultants:
• In the first phase, NATGRID has awarded the work of engagement of 22 consultants to National Institute for Smart Government (NISG). Out of 22 consultants, 6 consultants have already joined and another 7 consultants have confirmed their date of joining. The process of finalization of remaining 9 consultants is on.
NATGRID IT Framework:
2.7.10After the on boarding of Chief of Technology on 2nd March 2017, the activities for implementation of IT Framework of NATGRID has been initiated.
2.7.11 Further, a proposal seeking approval of CCS for extension of timelines for implementation of Horizon I and some elements of Horizon II is under submission. The Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance has conveyed their support for the proposal on 17.02.2017.
2.7.12 IB - Best effort will be taken to make sure the Capital expenditure target so fixed be positively met in time. Workable and more effective action plan including periodic field visits are being pursued to ensure to achieve physical and financial targets.
2.7.13 NIA - During the fiscal year 2017-18, `88.60 Cr. have been allotted under the Plan Head, which will be fully utilized by the end of 2017 as all the ongoing projects are about to be completed in this year and also the NIA has to commence the construction work at four other locations i.e. Raipur, Mumbai, Kochi and Jammu this year.
Police-II Division
2.7.14As regards infrastructure of CAPFs is concerned, there is no under utilization of funds under OB and RB with reference to Revised Estimates 2016-17, as may seen from the table given below:
(` in crore)
Head of Account RE Expenditure % of Expdr. wrt. 2016-17 Upto 31.03.17 RE
Office Building 1536.39 1470.71 95.73
Residential Building 794.82 854.59 100.00
CAPFIMS 6.00 5.28 88.00
TOTAL 2337.21 2330.58 99.72 32
2.7.15Committee's observations have been noted and due care is taken to optimally utilize budgetary allocation through various mechanisms developed for the purpose.
Border Management-II Division
2.7.16The allocation of funds along Indo-Bangladesh Border has been enhanced from ` 550 Crore (2016-17) to ` 900 Crore (2017-18). During 2017-18 along Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) fund allocation has been enhanced from ` 310 Crore (2016-17) to ` 400 Crore (2017-18). Thus it may be seen that there is increase in allocation of funds from 2016-17 to 2017-18. However, in case additional funds are required at RE stage the same will be demanded analyzing the progress of work on the ground.
2.7.17In Financial Year 2015-16 funds allocated on IPB & IBB were almost fully utilized by Border Management Division. However, the status of BE & RE of the last two years are as under:
(` in crore)
Border 2015-16 2016-17
BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals
IBB 550 550 527.34 550 550 546.44
IPB 280 280 270.15 310 108.20 110
2.7.18During 2016-17 along Indo-Pakistan Border (IPB) fund requirement has been reduced at RE stage as in the light of Recommendations of Madhukar Gupta Committee Report on IPB, some projects are being reviewed and being re-prioritized. There was also cross border firing in Jammu due to which some works have been affected.
Budget Division-
2.7.19The recommendation of the committee have been noted, efforts will be made to utilize the outlays fully under capital head viz., creation of Police infrastructure and also on revenue head on Modernization of Police Forces and SRE.
2.8 CENTRAL POLICE ORGANISATION
Recommendation
2.8.1 The Committee is constrained to express its displeasure and observes that most of the CPOs failed to utilize their capital funds optimally. While 73% funds under capital head were surrendered at RE stage in 2016-17, only 32% of the reduced allocation could be utilized by all the CPOs due to non-approval of various proposals for procurement of machinery, equipment and motor vehicles. The Committee is anguished to find the insincere approach adopted by the CPOs towards creation of capital assets and strongly recommends that Ministry of Home Affairs must introspect about the reasons for non-approval of various proposals. The Committee cautions that in the upcoming fiscal, capital funds should be spent optimally and the funds allocated should not remain underutilised due to procedural delays. (Para 4.4.5 ibid) 33
Action Taken
2.8.2 The concern of the Hon'ble Committee has been noted for strict compliance in future. All steps will be taken to ensure that the funds allocated may not remain underutilized and will be used optimally in the upcoming fiscal.
2.9 CRIMINOLOGY FORENSIC SCIENCE
Recommendation
2.9.1 The Committee cannot understand why allocation to the tune for ` 11.72 remained un-utilized under the capital head in RE 2016-17 which was earmarked for upgrading laboratories of criminology forensic science Head. The Committee recommends that Ministry should strive to create and upgrade forensic capabilities of premier investigation agencies and grant prompt approvals for such purposes. There should be no such under utilisation. (Para 4.5.3 ibid)
Action Taken
2.9.2 The concern of the committee regarding un-utilized amount under the Capital Head which was earmarked for upgrading laboratories of criminology forensic science head has been noted. The shortfall is mainly on account of tenders for procurement of machinery and equipment not materializing.
2.9.3 The allocation under capital head for the purpose in FY 2017-18 is `30.58 Crore and prompt approval would be accorded for utilisation of this allocation for creation and upgradation of forensic capabilities of premier investigation agencies.
2.10 BORDER INFRASTRUCTURE AND MANAGEMENT
Recommendation
2.10.1The Committee observes with concern that the Ministry was unable to procure the boats for coastal security as per the schedule. The Committee is aware that the Ministry was unable to implement Phase -II of the Coastal Security Scheme on time and it has been granted extension for 4 years till March, 2020. This is a total failure on the part of the Ministry in not completing Phase-II and this is compounded by the under utilisation of funds again this year. The Committee cautions the Ministry that foolproof coastal security is sine qua non for overall security of the country and if the Ministry keeps on procrastinating on the implementation of security related projects and does not procure items on time, it may not be able to complete this phase of CSS even within the extended timeline. The Committee, therefore, strongly recommends that implementation of Coastal Security Scheme may be undertaken with utmost priority and the Ministry should complete the pending procurement of boats within the first half of the upcoming fiscal year. (Para 4.6.4 ibid)
Action Taken
2.10.2Ministry of Home Affairs has been implementing Coastal Security Scheme (CSS) in phases with a view to strengthening the infrastructure of the State Coastal Police for patrolling and surveillance of coastal areas, particularly in the shallow areas close to the coast. 34
2.10.3The Phase-II of the CSS, with an outlay of Rs 1579.91 crore (`1154.91 crore non-recurring and `425 crore recurring), commenced w.e.f. 1st April, 2011 with a duration of five years. Under the Scheme, the Coastal States/UTs have been sanctioned with 131 Coastal Police Stations (CPSs), 60 jetties, 10 Marine Operation Centres(MOCs), 225 boats, 131 four wheelers and 242 motorcycles. The Scheme, scheduled to be completed within the 12th Five year Plan (2012-17), has been granted extension for four years (i.e., from 01.04.2016 to 31.03.2020) by the Cabinet Committee on Security(CCS) in its meeting held on 04.01.2017.
2.10.4Under the Scheme, 110 CPSs have been operationalised, 86 CPSs have been constructed, 45 CPSs are under construction, 23 jetties have been constructed/operationalised, 4 MOCs have been operationalised, 127 Four Wheelers, 234 Two Wheelers have been procured. The balance work will be completed before the implementation period of the Scheme, i.e., 31.03.2020.
2.10.5Procurement of the sanctioned 225 boats under the Phase-II of Coastal Security Scheme is being done centrally by MHA. The technical evaluation of the bids by the TEC is in progress. The expected period of completion of delivery of boats is 31st March, 2020.
2.11 BORDER AREA DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
Recommendation
2.11.1 The Committee notes that a major chunk of BADP funds are being spent on construction of roads, bridges and social infrastructure. Though infrastructure creation is important for overall development of border areas, however, this must not come at the neglect of other areas of development, particularly education, health and skill development. The Committee recommends that Ministry of Home Affairs should review the Annual Plans of States for spending BADP funds and guide them towards incurring expenditure in a broader arena so that no area of development gets neglected. (Para 4.7.4 ibid)
Action Taken
2.11.2 The guidelines of BADP were revised in June, 2015 which were implemented from the financial year 2016-17. For a balanced development of border areas and to ensure that no single sector get disproportionately large share of the allocation of the State, the provision for maximum/minimum limit of each of the sector under BADP was made in the guidelines of the BADP revised in June, 2015.
2.11.3 However, the maximum/minimum limit is for guidance only and not mandatory for the State Government. If, the State Governments feel that particular sector has already been developed and there is no scope for further development in that sector, State Government may utilize the funds meant for that particular sector on permissible scheme under the BADP for development of any other under- developed sector under intimation to the Department of Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs.
2.12 POLICE INFRASTRUCTURE
Recommendation
2.12.1The Committee notes that less than one-third physical target was achieved after spending more than two-thirds of the funds allocated. This is indicative of a sorry state of affairs as actual expenditure 35 percentage does not correspond with the percentage of physical achievement. The Committee feels that wasteful expenditure, unrealistic planning and imprudent budgeting could be the likely reasons for this anomaly. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry must look into this anomaly and examine the factors responsible behind this inconsistency between the physical and financial achievement of targets and adopt a more realistic planning and prudent budgeting for the set targets in future. (Para 4.8.7 ibid)
Action Taken
2.12.2In so far as CAPFs are concerned, as against the target of 4660 houses and 77 barracks, 1763 houses and 37 barracks were constructed in 2016-17 (upto 28.02.2017). Against target of 24,644 residential and non-residential buildings to be constructed during the 12th Five Year Plan period, 14017 were completed, which comes to 56.88%. However, actual achievement of physical targets may be more, as the achievement indicated above does not include the houses and barracks under construction, many of which are in advance stages of construction. Committee's observation regarding fast tracking and completion of projects at the earliest without any further delay has been noted for compliance. Regular review meetings are being held in MHA at senior level to monitor the progress of the various works.
2.12.3The Scheme implementing Units of Delhi Police have been directed to make all possible efforts to complete the proposals/projects within the time frame for optimum utilization of allocated funds during the current financial year 2017-18. As regards achievement of one-third physical target only against two- third utilization of budget in 2016-17, 85% of total allocation in Non-Plan Revenue Section is towards Salary and Cost of Ration and the balance 15% only is towards other establishment expenditure of Delhi Police. As regards Plan Schemes, the allocated funds have been utilized for the components/ activities approved under the Schemes.
2.12.4Under Modernisation of Police Forces (MPF) scheme, during the fifteen years from 2000-01 to 2014-15, against a total amount of `15,147.04 crore released, the States had utilised `14,439.32 crore as on 31.03.2017, which is 95.32% of the total fund released. The physical targets in respect of capital funds are in line with the expenditure incurred. In Financial Year 2017-18, more realistic planning and prudent budgeting for achieving physical and financial targets would be ensured.
2.13 DELHI POLICE
Recommendation
2.13.1The Committee is disappointed to observe the poor achievement of financial targets by the Delhi Police. Under all the Schemes, including Scheme for Safety of Women, substantial part of funds allocated in BE 2016-17 were surrendered at RE stage presumably due to poor expenditure in the first half of 2016-17. Even then, the utilization of funds remained poor and a mere 42% of RE allocation was utilised by the end of December, 2016. Delhi Police needs to realize the importance of these Schemes which are essential for developing Delhi as a safe and convenient place to live. The Committee feels that Delhi Police's failure to utilize even such low amounts of funds points to a serious lack of capacity for fund utilization. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the division concerned in MHA should 36 periodically review the financial performance of Delhi Police based on which the Ministry should make efforts towards improving the fund utilization capacity of Delhi Police. (Para 4.9.8 ibid)
Action Taken
2.13.288% of the total allocation in RE 2016-17 under Plan Schemes of Delhi Police has been utilized upto 31.03.2017. Regular review meetings are held in MHA to sensitize Delhi Police on the issue. The units in Delhi Police implementing the schemes have been directed to make all possible efforts to complete the proposals/projects within the time frame for optimum utilization of allocated funds during the financial year 2017-18.
2.14 MODERNISATION OF POLICE FORCES
Recommendation
2.14.1The Committee is constrained to note the trend of declining allocations under the Modernisation of Police Forces Scheme for the States. As compared to ` 1341.6 crore in 2013-14 and ` 1397.5 crore during 2014-15 only ` 595 crore was allocated during 2015-16 and 2016-17. This trend of reduced allocation under the scheme has come despite various evaluation studies and impact assessment reports highlighting the positive difference the scheme has created in improving the operations and infrastructure of State police forces throughout the country. Though the allocation for 2017-18 has been increased to ` 769 crore, the Committee feels that it is still not sufficient to meet the needs of modernizing the State Police Forces. The Committee warns that if the Central Government ignores the urgent need to modernize the State Police Forces, it would be at the cost of the nation’s security and recommends that the Ministry should make all out efforts for obtaining approval of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for continuation of this scheme beyond 31st March, 2017 and its sincere implementation. (Para 4.12.3 ibid)
Action Taken
2.14.2'Police' being a state subject as per the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India, the principal responsibility of modernisation of state police forces lies with the State Governments. However, the Central Government under the Modernisation of Police Force (MPF) Scheme has been supplementing the efforts of the State Governments in modernizing their police forces.
2.14.3Under the MPF Scheme allocated fund is distributed among States on a pro- rata basis as per the parameters approved by the Government. The allocation (Central share) of States are conveyed to States for formulating State Action Plan (SAPs) as per states strategic priorities and requirements. For deciding extent of central share, the States are grouped into two categories namely Category-'A' and Category- 'B' for the purpose of funding. Category 'A' States, namely Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh and 8 North Eastern States, including Sikkim, are eligible to receive financial assistance on a 90:10 (Centre: State) cost sharing basis. The remaining States are in Category 'B' and are eligible for financial assistance on a 60:40(Centre: State) cost sharing basis.
2.14.4A draft CCS note with renewed proposals of MPF is under consideration of the Government.
2.14.5The MPF Umbrella Scheme have already been appraised by EFC & considered by CoS. As advised by CoS an amended CCS note has been circulated to all stakeholders. 37
Recommendation
2.14.6The Committee notes that no funds were granted under the plan head of Modernisation of Police Forces Scheme, which provides for police infrastructure and training purpose, during the last two years. The Committee was apprised by the Home Secretary that the primary reason for less allocation of funds under this scheme was the misuse of non-plan funds meant for mobility, communication, weapons and equipments by the States for procuring a huge number of vehicles. The Committee feels that in such a scenario, the logical step would have been to either curtail non-plan funds or issue directions to States allowing only a small part of funds for procuring vehicles. However, non-allocation of any plan funds during the last two years does not seem to be justifiable. The Committee is unable to understand as to why this blatant misuse occurred in the first place despite MHA releasing funds after obtaining utilisation certificates from the States. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry should prepare detailed guidelines under this Scheme, if and when approval is granted for its continuation, and initiate appropriate measures to check this misuse by limiting the amount of funds that can be used for any single purpose where misuse can occur. The Committee also recommends that the Ministry should encourage expenditure on weapons, infrastructure projects and communication and forensic equipment and henceforth provide more funds for capital expenditure while directing the States to manage the revenue expenditure from their own contributions under this scheme. (Para 4.12.4 ibid)
Action Taken
2.14.7The provision under Plan component of MPF Scheme was started only in 2013-14. However, no fund has been provided by Ministry of Finance (MoF) under Plan component of MPF Scheme during 2015-16 to 2016-17 on the ground that the Scheme stands transferred to the States which means that there will be no Central Funding for construction activities of police building and police housing for State Police Forces under MPF Scheme. However, there is a non-plan allocation of ` 769 crore under MPF 2017-18 for mobility, equipment, weapons, etc. for State Police forces under MPF Scheme.
UNION TERRITORIES
2.15 UTs WITH LEGISLATURE
Recommendation
2.15.1The Committee recommends that more amounts should be allocated under the scheme EAP for coastal disaster risk reduction project. (Para 5.2.9 ibid)
Action Taken
2.15.2An amount of ` 188 crore was released to the Govt. of Puducherry during 2014-15 under the Scheme EAP for coastal disaster risk reduction project. However, matter for additional allocation at RE stage will be taken up with the Ministry of Finance.
2.16 CRIME AND LAW & ORDER SITUATION IN THE NCT OF DELHI
Recommendation
2.16.1'e-beat book': The Committee expresses apprehension that such software should not actually reduce the physical movement and active patrolling of the police on ground level and recommends that proper 38 assessment with regard to its impact may be done before launching. The Committee also strongly recommends that Delhi Police has to be more responsive towards women's safety in the NCT of Delhi. (Para 5.3.2 ibid)
Action Taken
2.16.2The recommendation of the Committee regarding 'e-beat book' is noted for compliance.
2.16.3Crimes against women are handled with utmost sensitivity and some of the major initiatives taken by the Delhi Police to check the incidents of crime against women include regular sensitization of Beat Officers to take prompt action against eve-teasers, deployment of local police and PCR vans outside girls' schools and colleges at opening and closing time, increase of Police pickets, imparting Self-Defence Training for women/ girls, conducting Gender Sensitization Courses regularly for police personnel, simplified process of registration in 'Himmat' app and making the app bilingual. The Police Forces of all the UTs including Delhi Police are implementing 33% reservation for women in direct recruitment in non- gazetted posts from constable to Sub-inspector.
Recommendation
2.16.4The Committee feels that the Delhi traffic congestion has become quite alarming and the Delhi Police has failed to implement any significant measures to improve the situation. The Committee takes note of the choked roads in Delhi which makes evacuation of Protected Persons very difficult during traffic congestion. The Committee also observes that a huge number of vehicles are getting registered every day in the Capital and presence of roundabouts on various cross-roads instead of traffic signals which cause congestion. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Delhi Police needs to prepare a meticulous traffic management plan for Delhi and allocate adequate funds for addressing the issue of traffic management. The Committee also recommends that urgent measures should be taken for managing the city traffic in a better way with construction of more arterial roads and parking bays, declaring some roads as one-way, devising effective emergency evacuation measures for the protected persons and stringent measures against traffic violators. (Para 5.3.5 ibid)
Action Taken
2.16.5The Delhi Traffic Police is constantly engaged in regulation, enforcement and road safety education to road users along with suggestions for traffic engineering improvement measures to be undertaken by civic road agencies in their respective areas in the NCT of Delhi with an objective to provide safe and smooth flow of traffic on Delhi roads in a better way. Adequate funds have been allocated for modernization schemes for traffic management to Delhi Traffic Police.
2.16.6The Government of NCT of Delhi has constituted 6 Task Force teams one for each Traffic Range with DCP/Range/Traffic as convenor to identify bottlenecks leading to traffic jams on major roads in Delhi and to prepare a time bound action plan for smooth flow of traffic on those roads. The Task Forces have held meetings with member stake holders i.e. road owning agencies, municipal bodies, DTC or any other concerned department and identified 77 congested corridors which shall be taken up by the Task Force teams for ensuring traffic improvements through engineering, regulation and other measures 39 in close coordination and in association with other members of the Task Force teams. These 77 corridors have been prioritized in categories 'A', 'B' and 'C' on the basis of volume and relative importance of the locations of the corridors. Initially, 28 Corridors of 'A' category are being taken up by the Task Force Teams in their respective ranges for removing traffic congestion. In this respect, focus is laid on engineering interventions, regulation through augmented traffic police deployment, manual intervention during morning & evening peak hours, removal of breakdown vehicles etc. to remove traffic congestion on the priority corridors.
2.17 DEVELOPMENTAL ISSUES PERTAINING TO THE UT OF LAKSHADWEEP
Recommendation
2.17.1The Committee observes that as stated by the representative of the Lakshadweep administration only three desalination plants have been approval and the remaining three are still pending. In view of this, the Committee strongly recommends that work pertaining to these three which have been already approved should start immediately without waiting for approval of the remaining three. The Committee realizes that at present Lakshadweep is completely dependent on rain water for drinking purpose. Therefore, provision of safe drinking water is the most urgent need of the Island. The Committee strongly recommends that construction work of all the six proposed plants should begin on priority without any further delay. The budgetary allocation of `226 crore should be fully utilized for the same purpose and if need be more funds should be granted at RE stage. (Para 5.7.2 ibid)
Action Taken
2.17.2The Recommendation of the Committee has been noted for compliance. Lakshadweep Administration has established one lakh litre per day capacity Low Temperature Desalination Plant in three islands (Kavaratti, Agatti, Minicoy). Approval for the installation of similar plants in six remaining islands is under consideration of the Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation.
Recommendation
2.17.3The Committee notes that at present the Health Insurance Scheme aims at only BPL families. Excluding Government employees and their wards people who are left out would be just around 12,000. The Committee recommends that as suggested by the M.P. from Lakshadweep, the Ministry should explore the possibility of covering all citizens by clubbing together the allocations made for medical reimbursement and health insurance schemes. (Para 5.7.6 ibid)
Action Taken
2.17.4The Lakshadweep Administration has signed an MoU with New India Assurance Company Ltd. On 26th April 2016 for the implementation of Health Insurance Package for the residents of Lakshadweep. The Insurance package was launched on 1st November 2016 "Lakshadweep Day". Total beneficiaries covered under the schemes are 15775/5118 AAY/PHH families. State Empowered Committee for redressal of grievances was constituted in the MoU.
2.17.5On the basis of experience/feedback from State Empowered Committee the decision can be taken on the degree of extension/enlargement of scope of implementation. 40
Recommendation
2.17.6The Committee in view of the detailed discussions held on the 16th January, 2017 and the 28th February, 2017 emphasizes that proper utilization of the allocation made is an absolute necessity so that it does not get reduced at RE stage. The Committee also took note of several other issues like promotion of tourism and developing infrastructure for the purpose, exploring participation of private sector through PPP mode in shipping, transport and tourism sectors, capacity addition of airplanes, increasing air connectivity, developing night landing facilities, installation of 12,000 bio degradable toilets, improving higher education, better harnessing of renewable energy sources, exploring diverse livelihood opportunities, improving existing harbour facilities, opening of state of the art marine products processing units and surveillance/periodic patrolling of uninhabited islands, etc. The Committee would however address all the issues pertaining to UT of Lakshadweep in a separate report. (Para 5.7.9 ibid)
Action Taken
2.17.7Expenditure was made as per the availability of fund in the sanctioned revised budget to the maximum extent. With respect to the other issues, detailed action taken report will be submitted based on the detailed report of the committee.
OTHER ISSUES
2.18 LONG TERM VISA (LTV) TO MINORITY COMMUNITIES FROM PAKISTAN, BANGLADESH AND AFGANISTAN
Recommendation
2.18.1The Committee is surprised by the notification notifying the reduction of application fee specifically for minority community only for LTV. The Committee feels that the Ministry should have waited for the passage of the Bill by the Parliament before going ahead with the notification. While the Committee appreciates the measures taken by the Ministry as mentioned in Para 6.7.1, the Committee recommends that, notifications should be issued after The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 is passed by the Parliament. (Para 6.7.4 ibid)
Action Taken
2.18.2In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 18 of the Citizenship Act, 1955, the Central Government has amended Schedule 4 of the Citizenship Rules, 2009 reducing the amount of application and registration fees in respect of minority communities of Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan, namely Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists, Jains and Parsis. The Notification was issued on 23rd December, 2016 and have come into force on the date of its publication in the Official Gazette. It would be observed that the Notification has been introduced for amendments in the rate of fees payable by minority communities of Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan in terms of Schedule 4 of the Citizenship Rules, 2009.
2.18.3On the other hand, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016 was proposed to amend certain provisions in the Citizenship Act, 1955 which are as follows : (i) amending the term 'illegal migrants' as 41 defined under Section 2, sub-Section 1, Clause (b) so as to enable minority community members from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan (Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists, Jains and Parsis), who have entered in India without valid passport / other travel documents or have entered into India with valid passport / travel documents, the validity of which have expired, to apply for Indian citizenship by treating them as illegal migrants. (ii) Cancellation of registration as Overseas Citizen of India cardholder under Section 7(D) of the Citizenship Act, 1955 in case of violations like disrespect to the Indian Constitution, aiding and enemy camp in times of war, acquiring OCI card through fraudulent means etc. (iii) Reduction in the number of years of residency period from 11 to 6 years under Section 6 of the Citizenship Act, 1955 as qualification for obtaining citizenship through naturalization, in terms of the Third Schedule to this Act.
2.18.4It would, therefore, be observed that the terms of reference of the Joint Parliament Committee pertains to amendments proposed in the Act as approved by the Parliament on 13th July, 2016. Since the order for reduction of the fees has already been notified and implemented, the same cannot be withdrawn now. However, directions issued by the Standing Committee would be kept in mind in future for compliance. 42
CHAPTER-III
RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS IN RESPECT OF WHICH REPLIES OF THE GOVERNMENT HAVE NOT BEEN ACCEPTED BY THE COMMITTEE
3.1 RELIEF AND REHABILITATION FOR MIGRANTS AND REPATRIATES
Recommendation
3.1.1 The Committee recommends that the Ministry of Home Affairs may sanction some amount of cash relief to be paid on a monthly basis to all the families who opted for Indian citizenship subsequent to the exchange of enclaves between India and Bangladesh. An urgent decision may be taken to provide this assistance immediately and arrangements may be made for directly transferring this assistance into the Aadhaar-linked bank accounts of the beneficiaries under the Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme. (Para 3.4.9 of 201s Report)
Action Taken
3.1.2 The people who are living in former Bangladeshi enclaves in India have been granted Indian citizenship. These people have been living in these former enclaves, now integrated in India for generations and they have not been affected by the exchange of enclaves between India and Bangladesh. The infrastructure development in these enclaves will surely benefit these people.
Further Recommendation
3.1.3 The Committee is of the considered view that since the implementation of rehabilitation package for up-gradation of infrastructure may take a long time the Government may provide immediate financial assistance to these people by directly transferring it into the Aadhaar linked bank accounts of the beneficiaries under the Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme as recommended by the Committee in its 201st Report.
3.2 BORDER INFRASTRUCTURE AND MANAGEMENT
Recommendation
3.2.1 The Committee is anguished to note that out of the plan allocation of ` 1418.97 crore for border fencing and roads construction along India-Bangladesh border, during 12th Five Year Plan, only ` 887.79 crore (62.56%) of the plan allocation could be spent. The Committee was also dismayed to observe the extremely tardy progress of border infrastructure projects with completion of only around 15 km of fencing, 26 km. of roads, 46 km. of flood lights and just 11 border outposts during 2016. The Committee is aware of the issues that affect construction projects along India -Bangladesh border; however, the inability of the Ministry to resolve these issues for so long seems unjustifiable. Even the Supreme Court expressed its strong displeasure at the manner in which border fencing projects languish along IBB and lack of any specific plan of the Ministry to complete it. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry should chalk out a strict and specific plan, while adhering to the timeline
42 43 stipulated by the Supreme Court, for completion of all the infrastructure projects along IBB and devote its sincere efforts to plug all the gaps on the border that were still being exploited for illegal cross border influx and smuggling. (Para 4.6.20 ibid)
Action Taken
3.2.2 During the 12th Five Year Plan ` 1418.97 Crore has been allocated for border fencing and roads construction work along Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB). However, the amount actually allocated in BE (2012–16) was ` 1233 Crore and in RE (2012–16) was ` 948.28 Crore, out of which ` 904.37 Crore have been spent. The plan allocation could not be utilized completely as fencing and road construction work along IBB have been affected by many issues like pending land acquisition, difficult terrain, limited working session etc.
3.2.3 The physical progress of border infrastructure works are being reviewed time to time and so far about 75% of the IBB length is covered by physical barrier i.e. fence. The Progress of fence, road, Border Flood Light (BFL)& Border Out Posts (BOPs) along IBB in 2016-17 is as under:
Fence 18.5 km.
Road 52.36 km.
Floodlight 141.37 km.
BOPs 35 Nos.
3.2.4 Difficulties in land acquisition, public protest, difficult terrain, limited working session etc. are the main issues that has affected infrastructure projects along IBB. To resolve the issues Ministry has taken various steps:
• Land Acquisition for border works is being done by the State Governments. MHA is in regular touch with State Governments concerned.
• Working groups in the States have been constituted to expedite the availability of land for border fence work.
• MHA has authorized Govt. of West Bengal to provide land for fence work under their Land Purchase Policy (LPP) and so far 39 Km. land acquisition cases have been processed by Govt. of West Bengal.
3.2.5 The Hon'ble Supreme Court had sought a status report on the border fence work in Assam. A report on border fence in Assam has been submitted to the Hon'ble Supreme Court.
3.2.6 In Assam only a stretch of 61.49 km. is remaining to be covered, out of which 13.38 km. is planned to be covered by Physical barrier and 48.11 km. by non-physical barrier.
3.2.7 Further, to chalk out plan for completion of border works along IBB Madhukar Gupta Committee has been constituted by the MHA, Govt. of India. 44
Further Recommendation
3.2.8 The Committee acknowledges the reasons the Ministry of Home Affairs has stated for delay in fencing and road construction work along the India-Bangladesh Border due to problems of land acquisition, public protest, difficult terrain and limited working season. However, the Committee desires to know the length of fencing that is delayed due to land acquisition, public protect, difficult terrain and limited working season separately.
3.3 POLICE INFRASTRUCTURE
Recommendation
3.3.1 The Committee expresses its concern over the non-achievement of physical and financial targets on the front of constructing Residential buildings under the police infrastructure head. Only 1347 houses were constructed against the target of 4660 which is just 29% during the first three quarters of 2016- 17. Even the pace of constructing barracks is far short of the annual target as only 37 barracks have been completed against the target of completion of 77 barracks. This is inconsistent with the Ministry's argument that additional funds were required due to increased pace of construction work. The Committee also notes that out of the targeted 24644 residential and non-residential buildings to be built during the 12th Five Year Plan period, only 13601 were constructed. Thus, the achievement of only 55% of the set target during the 12th FYP is unjustified and reflects overwhelming underperformance of the Ministry. The Committee, therefore, recommends that all the projects under this head must be fast tracked and completed at the earliest without any further delay. There should be an effective monitoring mechanism in place. (Para 4.8.6 ibid)
Action Taken
3.3.2 In so far as CAPFs are concerned, as against the target of 4660 houses and 77 barracks, 1763 houses and 37 barracks were constructed in 2016-17 (upto 28.02.2017). Against target of 24,644 residential and non-residential buildings to be constructed during the 12th Five Year Plan period, 14017 were completed, which comes to 56.88%. However, actual achievement of physical targets may be more, as the achievement indicated above does not include the houses and barracks under construction, many of which are in advance stages of construction. Committee's observation regarding fast tracking and completion of projects at the earliest without any further delay has been noted for compliance. Regular review meetings are being held in MHA at senior level to monitor the progress of various works.
3.3.3 As regards Delhi Police, during the 12th Plan period, out of 66 construction projects taken up under Delhi Police Building Programme, construction work of 39 projects having 664 Staff Qt` (Type- II=320, III=294, IV=46 & VI=4), 20 Police Stations, 15 Police Posts & 01 District Line had been completed and handed over to Delhi Police. Further, 22 Projects having 1943 Staff Qt` (Type-II=993, III=751, IV=131, V=60 & VI=8), 11 Police Stations, 01 Police Post & 02 District Lines are under construction. 5 projects are at planning/final stage of clearance. The progress of the projects is monitored by the Project Monitoring Committee, MHA as well as by the officers of Land & Building Cell of Delhi Police, so that the projects are completed without further delay. The Scheme implementing Units of Delhi Police have been directed to make all possible efforts to complete the proposals/projects within the time 45 frame for optimum utilization of allocated funds during the current financial year 2017-18. As regards achievement of one-third physical target only against two-third utilization of budget in 2016-17, 85% of total allocation in Non-Plan Revenue Section is towards Salary and Cost of Ration and the balance 15% only is towards other establishment expenditure of Delhi Police. As regards Plan Schemes, the allocated funds have been utilized for the components/ activities approved under the Schemes.
Further Recommendation
3.3.4 The Committee is of the view that projects under police infrastructure head need executive intervention to achieve physical target without time and cost overrun, as non-achievement of physical and financial targets pertaining to construction of Residential building (against the target of 4660 houses and 77 barracks, only 1763 houses and 37 barracks were constructed) during 2016-17 is startling and a major cause of concern to the Committee. Similarly, under Delhi Police Building Programme during the 12th Plan period, out of 66 construction Projects, 39 projects of construction work were completed, and other projects are under way. The Committee feels that despite elaborate arrangement for regular review meetings and various layers of monitoring mechanism, the targets could not be achieved. The Committee, therefore, reiterates its recommendation made in para 4.8.6 of 201st Report for completion of projects which must be fast-tracked and be completed at the earliest without further delay. The Committee further recommends that concerted efforts must be made for optimum utilization of allocated funds during 2017-18 and also to ensure the physical achievement of set targets.
3.4. DELHI POLICE
Recommendation
3.4.1 The Committee is constrained to observe that Delhi Police has outstanding bills of ` 1659.81 crores to be paid to CAPFs and Police Forces of other States deployed in NCT of Delhi for law and order duties. The situation seems even more worrisome when one looks at the fact that some of these bills are pending since 2005. The Committee feels that this is because of lackadaisical approach of the Ministry towards clearing the dues. Most of the bills pending are of CAPFs and the Ministry has to just adjust these funds from the head of Delhi Police to those of CAPFs. The Committee fails to understand why these bills have been allowed to languish unsettled for such a long period. The Committee, therefore, strongly recommends that all the outstanding bills to be paid by Delhi Police to other Police Organizations should be cleared without any further delay by projecting an allocation for this settlement at RE stage in 2017-18. (Para 4.9.5 ibid)
Action Taken
3.4.2 As reported by Delhi Police, an amount of `1659.81 cr. was pending for payment to CAPFs (`1285.34 cr.) and Police Forces of other States (`374.47 cr.) deployed in NCT of Delhi for law and order duties. An amount of `92.41 crore has been released till date against the outstanding bills towards deployment of other State Police Forces in the NCT of Delhi. During 2017-18, an amount of `242 crore has been allocated in BE under the head 'Professional Services'. Further releases will be made to the outside Police forces including CAPFs along with other expenditure payable from the available funds under the head. For balance payable, additional funds will be sought at RE stage. 46
Further Recommendation
3.4.3 The Committee reiterates its recommendation that all outstanding bills on Delhi Police, to be paid to CAPFs and police forces of other states deployed in NCT of Delhi for maintaining law and order duties, must be paid in one go without any further delay as these bills have been pending since 2005. The Ministry of Home Affairs must take honest and sincere steps in this direction and approach the Ministry of Finance, accordingly, for allocation of additional funds for the purpose.
UNION TERRITORIES
3.5 UT OF ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS
Recommendation
3.5.1 The Committee notes the written replies furnished by the Ministry on all the above issues and observes that most of them are pending since long and recommends that action should be taken on them on priority basis. (Para 5.4.2 ibid)
Action Taken
3.5.2 Recommendation of the Committee has been noted for compliance. Status of the issues is placed at Statement-I.
Further Recommendations
3.5.3 The Committee recommends that the Ministry must take an early decision on the implementation of the 4th Finance Commission of UT after consulting the elected representatives of various local bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). The Committee may be apprised of the decision taken in this regard.
3.5.4 The Committee takes note of the fact that the proposals given by the elected representatives of the people were not considered while taking up the roads for improvement and up-gradation under the PMGSY-II. The Committee recommends that the Ministry must take into account the roads identified by the elected representatives for improvement under the PMGSY-II. The Committee also recommends that the Ministry must enforce accountability among the officials charges with the responsibility.
3.5.5 The Committee is disappointed to note that appropriate measures have not been taken to either control the stream bank erosion or to provide alternative land to the affected persons. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the representations made by the elected representatives regarding the allotment of alternative land to those whose lands had been eroded must be given high priority and suitable decisions should be taken quickly.
3.5.6 The Committee also takes note of the delay in extension of the service benefits to 495 electricity mazdoors as per the Court's order due to incessant web of litigation initiated by the 47
UT Administration of A&N Islands to deny the electricity mazdoors their rights. The Committee is disappointed to note that after the SLP was dismissed, the Administration, instead of implementing the judgment, has filed a review petition. Now that the review petition has also been dismissed, the Committee, recommends, that this judgment should be implemented forthwith and the electricity mazdoors may be granted service benefits at the earliest.
3.5.7 The Committee is disappointed to note that at this stage, a further Committee on land matters of A&N Islands was constituted rather than taking action on the decisions taken earlier.
3.6 UT OF DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI
Recommendation
3.6.1 The Committee recommends that all of the above mentioned issues are crucial for the development of the UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and the Ministry should address them without any further delay. The Committee also recommends that adequate Budgetary provisions should be made for the purpose. (Para 5.6.2ibid)
Action Taken
3.6.2 Recommendation of the Committee has been noted for compliance. Status of the issues is placed at Annexure-III.
Further Recommendation
3.6.3 The Committee takes note of the reply furnished on the issue of filling up of vacant posts in administration and is anguished to observe that since 2013 only 88 posts have been filled up through promotion while the UT Administration is still dithering on the issue of fresh recruitment. The Committee strongly recommends that fresh recruitment for the posts, for which the Administrator is the appointing authority, may be initiated and completed at the earliest.
OTHER ISSUES
3.7 SAFETY OF WOMEN
Recommendation
3.7.1 The Committee notes that Nirbhaya Fund, which was given ` 1000 crore, remains severely underutilized. The Committee is surprised that the Ministry is yet to chalk out proper schemes for implementation under this Fund. As of now, the funds are being used for miscellaneous expenditure only which does not address the safety and security concerns of women. The Committee recommends that the Ministry, after due research and consultations with States/UTs, should prepare proper Schemes with measurable outcome indicators. (Para 6.5.5 ibid)
Action Taken
3.7.2 Under the Central Victim Compensation Fund (CVCF) scheme, financial assistance of ` 200 Crores as one-time grant has been sanctioned from Nirbhaya Fund and allocated to States / UTs for 48 compensating women victims of acid attacks, rape, trafficking etc. The entire amount of 200 crores has been disbursed to all the States/UTs during the financial year 2016-17. Suggestion noted.
Further Recommendation
3.7.3 The Committee takes note of the submission that ` 200 crore sanctioned from Nirbhaya Fund comprising of ` 1,000 crore have been disbursed to all the States/UTs during the financial year 2016-17 under the Central Victim Compensation Fund Scheme as one time grant. However, in the Committee's view, this is not sufficient. The Nirbhaya fund was set up, not as source of payment of compensation, but as a fund to promote innovative schemes of a permanent or long term nature that will enhance the safety of women. The fund should identify such schemes and support them. Till date, no such scheme appears to have been identified. The Committee further desires to be apprised of utilization of residual amount of Nirbhaya fund in the light of the objectives for which the fund was set up and effective steps being taken to ensure security and safety of women. 49
CHAPTER-IV
RECOMMENDATION/OBSERVATION IN RESPECT OF WHICH FINAL REPLY OF THE GOVERNMENT HAVE NOT BEEN RECEIVED
4.1 OVERALL ASSESSMENT OF DEMANDS FOR GRANTS
Recommendation
4.1.1 The Committee also observes that overall allocation to UTs is much lower in comparison to what they have projected. The Committee feels that this may hamper the growth and development of the UTs. The Committee recommends that the Ministry should approach the Ministry of Finance for higher allocation to these UTs at RE stage. Detailed analysis of the respective Grants has been given in Chapter-V of the Report. (Para 2.2.7 of 201st Report)
Action Taken
4.1.2 Recommendation of the Committee has been noted. Allocation to UTs will be reviewed at RE stage keeping in view of demands of UTs and their utilization status.
Further Recommendation
4.1.3 The Committee may be informed of the review undertaken at RE stage, funds allocation and fund utilized.
DEMANDS NO. 46
4.2 RELIEF AND REHABILITATION FOR MIGRANTS AND REPATRIATES
Recommendation
4.2.1 The Committee notes that an amount of ` 500 crore has been provided for expenditure towards rehabilitation package for settlement of displaced families from Pakistan occupied Kashmir and Chhamb Niabat Areas under Prime Minister Development Package for Jammu and Kashmir. However, no expenditure was incurred upto December, 2016 on this account. The Committee, therefore, strongly recommends that the Ministry should earnestly implement this package by making prudent and timely utilization of allocated funds. The Committee also desires to be apprised about the status of the implementation of this rehabilitation package. (Para 3.4.7 ibid)
Action Taken
4.2.2 The scheme for providing financial assistance of `5.5 Lakh per family to 36,384 displaced families of PoJK (1947) and Chhamb (1965 and 1971) residing in J&K was sanctioned on 22nd December 2016.
4.2.3 The State Government of J&K has been requested to provide requisite details of all beneficiaries so that the amount of financial assistance could be transferred directly into the beneficiaries' account to enable this Ministry to start disbursing the amount. The State Government has already started the work
49 50 to collect requisite details and documents in this respect and has received forms from 5,950 beneficiaries till 31st March 2017.
4.2.4 Based on the authenticated details of the beneficiaries received from the State Government of J&K, a total amount of `9.33 Crores has been disbursed during the financial year 2016-17, by way of transferring the eligible amount of Central Assistance directly into the Aadhar linked bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries. Financial assistance to remaining beneficiaries would be disbursed in progressive manner on receipt of authenticated details from the State Govt. of J&K.
Further Recommendation
4.2.5 The Committee reiterates its recommendation made in Para 3.4.7 of 201st Report and expects that the Ministry of Home Affairs would persuade the State Government of J&K for providing authenticated details of remaining beneficiaries to facilitate timely and effective implementation of Rehabilitation Package to the tune of ` 500 crore meant for settlement of displaced families from POJK (1947) and Chhamb (1965 and 1971). The Committee further desires that updated implementation status of the Prime Minister Development Package for Jammu & Kashmir be furnished to the Committee.
4.3 NATIONAL CYCLONE RISK MITIGATION PROJECT
Recommendation
4.3.1 The Committee notes that Early Warning Dissemination System is expected to be commissioned by mid-2017 and recommends that it should be completed as per the schedule without any delay so as to be operational before September of this year which is the time when tropical cyclones usually arrive at the Eastern coast of India. (Para 3.6.7 ibid)
Action Taken
4.3.2 With respect to commissioning of Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS), Odisha has awarded the work to M/s Larsen & Toubro on 9th July, 2016 at a cost of ` 66 Cr. Sites finalisation, Radio Frequency and Soil Survey work has been completed and foundation work for towers is under progress. The system is scheduled to be commissioned by July, 2017.
4.3.3 Andhra Pradesh has also awarded the work to M/s Larsen & Toubro on 26th October, 2016 at a cost of ` 82 Cr. Radio Frequency Survey has been completed and soil survey is under progress. The system is scheduled to be commissioned by September, 2017.
Further Recommendation
4.3.4 The Committee desires to be apprised of the completions and commissioning status of Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS) of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh which were scheduled to be commissioned by July, 2017 and September, 2017 respectively, at the cost of ` 66 crore in Odisha and ` 82 crore in Andhra Pradesh. 51
Recommendation
4.3.5 The Committee, however, observes that only one bridge was constructed in 2016-17 and substantial number of shelters, roads, bridges and Saline Embankments are still under execution in Phase I of NCRMP. The Committee recommends that the Ministry should pursue the States for completion of this Phase at the earliest. In Phase-II, several works are under various stages of finalization, environment clearance, DPR and tendering. The Committee strongly recommends that all the stages of processing should be completed as per schedule. (Para 3.6.8 ibid)
Action Taken
4.3.6 Recommendations of the Committee have been noted. The Project Oversight Committee headed by Union Home Secretary in its meeting held on 9.3.2017 reviewed the status of NCRMP Phase-I and Phase-II and directed the States to complete the works within scheduled time. This Ministry also wrote the lagging States in March 2017 and sensitized them to expedite their pending works. All the physical works corresponding to phase-I of the project are expected to be completed by 31st March, 2018 and for phase-II, the works are expected to be completed by 31st March, 2020.
Further Recommendation
4.3.7 The Committee desires to be apprised of the status of completion of phase I and II of National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) that was scheduled to be completed by 31st March, 2018 and 31st March, 2020 respectively.
4.4 CENTRAL ARMED POLICE FORCES
Recommendation
4.4.1 The Committee observes that most of the CAPFs were able to utilize the allocated funds optimally except NSG which was able to utilize only 65% of the funds allocated at RE stage in 2016-17 upto 15.02.2017 for the purpose of Establishment Expenditure. The Committee also notes that the allocation granted to National Security Guards (NSG) in BE 2017-18 is almost 28% short of what was projected by the Ministry. NSG is to be developed as an elite Counter Terrorism agency for which it requires urgent modernization and expansion of its warfare capabilities. This can only be achieved when sufficient funds are allocated and optimally utilized by the Ministry. The Committee points out that in order to justify the demand for higher allocation in the next fiscal, it is pertinent to achieve optimal utilization in the previous financial year. The Committee, therefore, strongly recommends that the Ministry must find out the reasons for lower utilisation of allocated fund and review the status of all the pending proposals due to which funds were not utilized fully and clear them at the earliest. (Para 4.2.4 ibid)
Action Taken
4.4.2 So far as capital infrastructure (OB & RB) is concerned, NSG has been able to use 100% of allocation in RE 2016-17, as may be seen from the table below: 52
(` in crore)
Head of BE RE Expdr. upto % wrt Account 2016-17 2016-17 31.3.17 RE
Office Building 72.49 72.49 72.70 100%
Residential Building 67.94 67.94 67.93 100%
TOTAL 140.43 140.43 140.63 100%
4.4.3 As against projection of `137.83 crore, NSG was allocated `167.83 crore under head Office Building and Residential Building in BE 2017-18. The enhanced allocation for 2017-18 will be utilized to meet the current requirement for creation of infrastructure for NSG.
Further Recommendation
4.4.4 The Ministry of Home Affairs may inform the Committee about the progress made for creation of infrastructure for NSG for which enhanced allocation to the tune of ` 167.83 crore was made in BE 2017-18.
Recommendation
4.5.1 The Committee does not accept the Ministry's contention that non-availability of qualified professionals is the reason behind keeping the posts vacant for such a long time and the consequent surrendering of funds at RE stage. In a country like India which is known worldwide for its highly skilled IT professionals, it is simply not acceptable that the nonavailability of professionals was the reason for not filling up the post of 35 consultants. The Committee feels that either the Ministry failed to publicize the posts widely or the remuneration being offered was not attractive enough. The Committee recommends that the Ministry needs to clear the confusion looming large over the NATGRID's future by completing the construction work of its main building at the earliest. Meanwhile, the Ministry must republicize the posts as widely as possible along with offering remuneration package commensurate to that being offered in the private sector to attract the most qualified professionals. (Para 4.3.3 ibid)
Action Taken
4.5.2 There was some delay in engagement of consultants. In August 2016, after the contract agreement was approved, the contract was signed with National Institute for Smart Government (NISG) in August 2016. NISG issued the advertisement of engagement of 21 consultants for NATGRID in September 2016. Subsequently, the advertisement for the role of Chief of Technology was issued on 12.11.2016. After completion of screening of applications, interviews were started in December 2016 and the consultants started joining NATGRID in February 2017. Out of 22 consultants, 6 consultants have already joined and another 7 consultants have confirmed their date of joining. The process of finalization of remaining 9 consultants is on.
4.5.3 NATGRID is further examining timelines for engagement of 19 additional consultants during the financial year 2017-18, for which approval of competent authority has already been obtained. 53
Further Recommendation
4.5.4 The Committee, while noting the submission of MHA for engagement of 19 additional consultants during the financial year 2017-18, recommends that the whole process of engagement of 19 consultants be completed strictly within stipulated timeline.
Recommendation
4.5.5 The Committee notes that final approval for implementation of Entity Extraction, Visualization and Analytics (EVA) System has been granted in January, 2017. The Committee recommends that implementation of EVA system may now be completed without any further delay. (Para 4.3.4 ibid)
Action Taken
4.5.6 After obtaining final approval for floating of Expression of Interest (EoI) for implementation of Entity Extraction, Visualisation and Analytics (EVA) system, NATGRID floated an Expression of Interest (EoI) on 01.02.2017 for selection of System Integrators for implementing EVA system. Last date of submission of bids was 28th February 2017. 14 online bids were received against the EOI for EVA.
4.5.7 The Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC), constituted to evaluate the technical bids has concluded that none of the 14 vendors qualify for the next stage of RFP. Initiation of a fresh EOI is under process.
Further Recommendation
4.5.8 The Committee notes that the progress in operationalisation of NATGRID is painfully slow. The EVA system is one such example. The Committee desires that NATGRID must complete the process of selection of system integrators so that implementation of Entity Extraction, Visualization and Analytics (EVA) system is made functional without much delay.
4.6 POLICE INFRASTRUCTURE
Recommendation
4.6.1 The Ministry of Home Affairs apprised the Committee that ` 1181.58 crore of additional fund has been provided under police infrastructure head to sustain the increased pace of construction work in respect of all the organisations involved. The Committee, in view of the Ministry's submission, recommends that the increased pace of construction must be maintained in the next fiscal year and complacency should not creep in. The Committee hopes that the Ministry would be able to judiciously utilize the enhanced allocation for the intended purpose within the stipulated timeframe. (Para 4.8.5 ibid)
Action Taken
4.6.2 Committee's advice has been noted for compliance and every possible effort will be made in this regard.
4.6.3 A sum of `355.00 crore has been allocated to Delhi Police during the Financial Year 2017-18 under the Scheme "Delhi Police Building Programme". All possible efforts will be made by Delhi Police to complete the ongoing projects at the earliest and for optimum utilisation of allocated funds during the current financial year 2017-18. 54
Further Recommendation
4.6.4 The Committee notes the allocation of ` 355 crore under the Scheme of Delhi Police Building Programme during the Financial year 2017-18. The Committee may be apprised of the efforts made for utilisation of ` 1181.51 crore and results thereof.
4.7 DELHI POLICE
Recommendation
4.7.1 The Committee takes a serious note of the extremely low allocation being provided for the especially important Scheme of Modernisation of Traffic and Communication Network of Delhi Police. The Committee wonders how the task of developing an efficient traffic management and communication Network in a city like Delhi is possible with the meager amount of ` 1.66 crore. The Committee feels that such low allocation cannot even give a decent head-start to this Scheme if Delhi Police plans to implement it in letter and spirit. The Committee recommends that Delhi Police should prepare a detailed plan to improve the traffic management and communication network in Delhi including modernization and technology. The Ministry should seek allocation at RE stage for this purpose. (Para 4.9.7 ibid)
Action Taken
4.7.2 Under the Scheme 'Modernization of Traffic and Communication Network of Delhi Police', an amount of `44 crore and ` 54 crore has been allocated in BE 2016-17 and BE 2017-18 respectively. Under this Scheme, for sub-Scheme, namely, 'Developing Traffic & Communication Network in NCR/ Mega Cities and Model Traffic System' has been allocated `4 crore and `4.4 crore in 2016-17 and 2017-18 respectively. In addition, funds allocated under other revenue/ capital heads, based on priority and requirement, are utilized by the Traffic and Communication Units of Delhi Police. Based on the trend of expenditure in the first half of 2017-18, additional funds, wherever required, will be projected in R.E. 2017-18.
Further Recommendation
4.7.3 The Ministry of Home Affairs may furnish details of physical achievement against the set target under the Scheme Modernisation of Traffic and Communication Network of Delhi Police for which an amount of ` 44 crore and ` 54 crore was allocated in BE 2016-17 and BE 2017-18, respectively.
4.8 UNION TERRITORIES WITH LEGISLATURE
Recommendation
4.8.1 The Committee notes that against the projected central assistance to Delhi of amount ` 1500.00 crore only `412.99 crore has been given in the BE 2017-18 and recommends that more amount should be given as central assistance. Moreover, for additional central assistance for Externally Aided Programme (EAP) only ` 0.01 crore has been granted against the projection of ` 200.00 crore which should also be increased and the Committee should be informed about the details of such EAPs. (Para 5.2.7ibid) 55
Action Taken
4.8.2 Recommendation of the Committee has been noted and matter will be taken up with the Ministry of Finance at RE stage.
4.8.3 NCT Delhi had requested for provision of ` 200.00 crore under EAP for the project namely Chandrawal Water Treatment Plant. The Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance had also requested MHA in this regard. However, DEA has been asked to take up the matter with concerned subject matter Ministry. i.e. the Ministry of Urban Development. Hence, only a token provision was kept.
Further Recommendation
4.8.4 The Committee desires to be apprised of actual central assistance sanctioned/released to NCT of Delhi at RE 2017-18 against the projected demand to the tune of ` 1500 crore which was reduced to ` 412.99 crore at BE 2017-18. The Ministry of Home Affairs may also inform the Committee about the response of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in regard to sanction of ` 200 crore for Chandrawal Water Treatment plant/Project in NCT of Delhi.
OTHER ISSUES
4.9 DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR
Recommendation
4.9.1 The Committee notes that under the ` 80000 crore Prime Minister's Development Package for J&K, several projects were initiated by the Ministry; however, most of the projects, namely, project for creation of jobs, transit accommodations, one time settlement of 36,384 families from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK) and Chhamb Displaced Persons and raising of IRB battalions, were still under progress and little outcome was achieved. Observing this pattern of poor outcome in the past twelve months, the Committee recommends that the Ministry should intensify its efforts to achieve measurable outcome under the PM's Development Package by speeding up the work in the upcoming fiscal year and implementing all the projects at the earliest. The Committee also desires that the Ministry may apprise the Committee about the details of expenditure incurred under various heads out of ` 80000 crore and the actual physical and financial achievements against set targets under this Package. (Para 6.1.2 ibid)
Action Taken
4.9.2 Progress of all the 63 projects under Prime Minister's Development Package -2015 for J&K, which relates to 15 Central Government Ministries/Departments, is being reviewed regularly. During 2016-17, 4 such review meetings held. Out of the total package of ` 80,068 Crores, projects of `67,046 Crores have already been sanctioned. So far an amount of `17,913 Crores has been released to the State Govt. of J&K/ Implementing Agencies. All necessary efforts are being taken for timely completion of these projects.
4.9.3 The status of projects under Prime Minister's Development Package for J&K, which are being implemented with financial support from the Ministry of Home Affairs is tabulated below. It may be seen 56 that all these 7 projects have already been sanctioned and their implementation is either completed or in progress:
Sl. Project Cost of Status No. the project (` in Crore)
12 3 4
1. Enhanced rate of remuneration 450 The project has been sanctioned by the MHA on to SPO's from ` 3,000 p.m. to 18-03-2016 for payment of Honorarium to the ` 6,000 p.m. SPOs at enhanced rate w.e.f. 01-01-2016. The State Govt. of J&K has implemented the same.
2. Rehabilitation Package for 13 per The project has been sanctioned by the MHA on Jammu migrants Annum 04-12-2015 for providing cash/ration relief to the Jammu migrants at par with the Kashmiri migrants w.e.f. 18-11-2015. The State Govt. of J&K has implemented the same.
3. IR Battalion (5 in J&K at appx 255.95 The project has been sanctioned by the MHA on cost of ` 60 crore per Bn.) 10-02-2016. Recruitment for 5 IR Battalions is in progress. More than 1 Lakh applications have been received, which are being scrutinized by the State Govt. of J&K.
4. Security and law order system 500 Projects amounting to `255.30 Crore have already in J&K been sanctioned. State Govt. of J&K is to send remaining proposal(s) of `245 Crore and implement the approved projects at the earliest. An Expert Committee for technical evaluation of the projects have been constituted.
5. Construction of 6000 920 • The project has been sanctioned by the MHA transit accommodations in on 04-12-2015. the Kashmir valley • Authorization has been issued by the State Govt. to the executing agency (JKPCC) for construction of 400 transit accommodations, where State land was available. Work is in-progress at these locations. • Further, about 90 Acres (723 Kanals) land has been identified by the State Government in 7 districts of Kashmir valley for remaining transit accommodations. 57
12 3 4
• State Govt. is being pursued for acquisition of land and to start the construction work.
6. State Government jobs to 1080 • The project has been sanctioned by the MHA additiona l3000 Kashmiri migrants on 04-12-2015. (salary to be reimbursed by the • 3000 posts have been identified by the State Centre for 10 years @ ` 30,000 Govt. in 18 different Departments. per month) • Process of approval for creation of these posts is underway.
7. Rehabilitation package for one 2000 • The project has been sanctioned by the MHA time settlement of 36384 on 22-12-2016. families from POK and Chhamb • The State Govt. of J&K has been requested to DPs provide requisite details of all beneficiaries so that the amount of financial assistance could be transferred directly into the beneficiaries' account to enable this Ministry to start disbursing the amount. • The State Government has already started the work to collect requisite details and documents in this respect and has received forms from 5,950 beneficiaries till 31st March 2017. • Based on the authenticated details of the beneficiaries received from the State Government of J&K, a total amount of `9.33 Crores has been disbursed during the financial year 2016-17, by way of transferring the eligible amount of Central Assistance directly into the Aadhar linked bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries. • Financial assistance to remaining beneficiaries would be disbursed in progressive manner on receipt of authenticated details from the State Govt. of J&K.
Further Recommendation
4.9.4 The Committee finds that out of the total package of ` 80,068 crore under Prime Minister's Development Package for J&K, projects of ` 67,046 crore have been sanctioned and ` 17,913 crore has been released to the State Government of J&K/implementing agencies. Seven projects are at different stages of implementation. In that regard, the Committee would like to be 58 informed about the total amount disbursed so far for payment of Honorarium to the SPOs at the enhanced rate of ` 6000 per month and the number of beneficiaries; further progress made in raising of the 5 IR Battalions in J&K at approx. cost of ` 60 crore per Bn; status of projects amounting to ` 255.30 crore already sanctioned and remaining proposals/projects of ` 245 crore pertaining to security and law & order/system in J&K; progress achieved with regard to construction of 6000 transit accommodation in the Kashmir valley; implementation status project on creation of 3000 jobs as identified by State Government in 18 different departments; and latest status of implementation rehabilitation package for one time settlement of 36,384 families from PoK and Chhamb DPs. The Committee, in this regard, recommends that the Ministry of Home Affairs, in tandem with State Government of J&K should ensure timely implementation of undertaken projects of ` 80,068 crore under Prime Minister's Development Package of J&K. 59
RECOMMENDATION/OBSERVATIONS- AT A GLANCE
RELIEF AND REHABILITATION FOR MIGRANTS AND REPATRIATES
The Committee is of the considered view that since the implementation of rehabilitation package for up-gradation of infrastructure may take a long time the Government may provide immediate financial assistance to these people by directly transferring it into the Aadhaar linked bank accounts of the beneficiaries under the Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme as recommended by the Committee in its 201st Report. (Para 3.1.3)
BORDER INFTRASRUCTURE AND MANAGEMENT
The Committee acknowledges the reasons the Ministry of Home Affairs has stated for delay in fencing and road construction work along the India-Bangladesh Border due to problems of land acquisition, public protest, difficult terrain and limited working season. However, the Committee desires to know the length of fencing that is delayed due to land acquisition, public protect, difficult terrain and limited working season separately. (Para 3.2.8)
POLICE INFRASTRUCTURE
The Committee is of the view that projects under police infrastructure head need executive intervention to achieve physical target without time and cost overrun, as non-achievement of physical and financial targets pertaining to construction of Residential building (against the target of 4660 houses and 77 barracks, only 1763 houses and 37 barracks were constructed) during 2016-17 is startling and a major cause of concern to the Committee. Similarly, under Delhi Police Building Programme during the 12th Plan period, out of 66 construction Projects, 39 projects of construction work were completed, and other projects are under way. The Committee feels that despite elaborate arrangement for regular review meetings and various layers of monitoring mechanism, the targets could not be achieved. The Committee, therefore, reiterates its recommendation made in para 4.8.6 of 201st Report for completion of projects which must be fast-tracked and be completed at the earliest without further delay. The Committee further recommends that concerted efforts must be made for optimum utilization of allocated funds during 2017-18 and also to ensure the physical achievement of set targets. (Para 3.3.4)
DELHI POLICE
The Committee reiterates its recommendation that all outstanding bills on Delhi Police, to be paid to CAPFs and police forces of other states deployed in NCT of Delhi for maintaining law and order duties, must be paid in one go without any further delay as these bills have been pending since 2005. The Ministry of Home Affairs must take honest and sincere steps in this direction and approach the Ministry of Finance, accordingly, for allocation of additional funds for the purpose. (Para 3.4.3)
59 60
UNION TERRITORIES
UT OF ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS
The Committee recommends that the Ministry must take an early decision on the implementation of the 4th Finance Commission of UT after consulting the elected representatives of various local bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). The Committee may be apprised of the decision taken in this regard. (Para 3.5.3)
The Committee takes note of the fact that the proposals given by the elected representatives of the people were not considered while taking up the roads for improvement and up-gradation under the PMGSY-II. The Committee recommends that the Ministry must take into account the roads identified by the elected representatives for improvement under the PMGSY-II. The Committee also recommends that the Ministry must enforce accountability among the officials charges with the responsibility. (Para 3.5.4)
The Committee is disappointed to note that appropriate measures have not been taken to either control the stream bank erosion or to provide alternative land to the affected persons. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the representations made by the elected representatives regarding the allotment of alternative land to those whose lands had been eroded must be given high priority and suitable decisions should be taken quickly. (Para 3.5.5)
The Committee also takes note of the delay in extension of the service benefits to 495 electricity mazdoors as per the Court's order due to incessant web of litigation initiated by the UT Administration of A&N Islands to deny the electricity mazdoors their rights. The Committee is disappointed to note that after the SLP was dismissed, the Administration, instead of implementing the judgment, has filed a review petition. Now that the review petition has also been dismissed, the Committee, recommends, that this judgment should be implemented forthwith and the electricity mazdoors may be granted service benefits at the earliest. (Para 3.5.6)
The Committee is disappointed to note that at this stage, a further Committee on land matters of A&N Islands was constituted rather than taking action on the decisions taken earlier. (Para 3.5.7)
UT OF DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI
The Committee takes note of the reply furnished on the issue of filling up of vacant posts in administration and is anguished to observe that since 2013 only 88 posts have been filled up through promotion while the UT Administration is still dithering on the issue of fresh recruitment. The Committee strongly recommends that fresh recruitment for the posts, for which the Administrator is the appointing authority, may be initiated and completed at the earliest. (Para 3.6.3)
OTHER ISSUES SAFETY OF WOMEN
The Committee takes note of the submission that ` 200 crore sanctioned from Nirbhaya Fund comprising of ` 1,000 crore have been disbursed to all the States/UTs during the financial 61 year 2016-17 under the Central Victim Compensation Fund Scheme as one time grant. However, in the Committee's view, this is not sufficient. The Nirbhaya fund was set up, not as source of payment of compensation, but as a fund to promote innovative schemes of a permanent or long term nature that will enhance the safety of women. The fund should identify such schemes and support them. Till date, no such scheme appears to have been identified. The Committee further desires to be apprised of utilization of residual amount of Nirbhaya fund in the light of the objectives for which the fund was set up and effective steps being taken to ensure security and safety of women. (Para 3.7.3)
OVERALL ASSESSMENT OF DEMANDS FOR GRANTS
The Committee may be informed of the review undertaken at RE stage, funds allocation and fund utilized. (Para 4.1.3)
DEMAND NO. 46
RELIEF AND REHABILITATION FOR MIGRANTS AND REPATRIATES
The Committee reiterates its recommendation made in Para 3.4.7 of 201st Report and expects that the Ministry of Home Affairs would persuade the State Government of J&K for providing authenticated details of remaining beneficiaries to facilitate timely and effective implementation of Rehabilitation Package to the tune of ` 500 crore meant for settlement of displaced families from POJK (1947) and Chhamb (1965 and 1971). The Committee further desires that updated implementation status of the Prime Minister Development Package for Jammu & Kashmir be furnished to the Committee. (Para 4.2.5)
NATIONAL CYCLONE RISK MITIGATION PROJECT
The Committee desires to be apprised of the completions and commissioning status of Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS) of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh which were scheduled to be commissioned by July, 2017 and September, 2017 respectively, at the cost of ` 66 crore in Odisha and ` 82 crore in Andhra Pradesh. (Para 4.3.4)
The Committee desires to be apprised of the status of completion of phase I and II of National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP) that was scheduled to be completed by 31st March, 2018 and 31st March, 2020 respectively. (Para 4.3.7)
CENTRAL ARMED POLICE FORCES
The Ministry of Home Affairs may inform the Committee about the progress made for creation of infrastructure for NSG for which enhanced allocation to the tune of ` 167.83 crore was made in BE 2017-18. (Para 4.4.4)
The Committee, while noting the submission of MHA for engagement of 19 additional consultants during the financial year 2017-18, recommends that the whole process of engagement of 19 consultants be completed strictly within stipulated timeline. (Para 4.5.4) 62
The Committee notes that the progress in operationalisation of NATGRID is painfully slow. The EVA system is one such example. The Committee desires that NATGRID must complete the process of selection of system integrators so that implementation of Entity Extraction, Visualization & Analytics (EVA) system is made functional without much delay. (Para 4.5.8)
POLICE INFRASTRUCTURE
The Committee notes the allocation of ` 355 crore under the Scheme of Delhi Police Building Programme during the Financial year 2017-18. The Committee may be apprised of the efforts made for utilisation of ` 1181.51 crore and results thereof. (Para 4.6.4)
DELHI POLICE
The Committee notes the allocation of ` 355 crore under the Scheme of Delhi Police Building Programme during the Financial year 2017-18. The Committee may be apprised of the efforts made for utilisation of ` 1181.51 crore and results thereof. (Para 4.7.3)
UNION TERRITORIES WITH LEGISLATURE
The Committee desires to be apprised of actual central assistance sanctioned/released to NCT of Delhi at RE 2017-18 against the projected demand to the tune of ` 1500 crore which was reduced to ` 412.99 crore at BE 2017-18. The Ministry of Home Affairs may also inform the Committee about the response of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in regard to sanction of ` 200 crore for Chandrawal Water Treatment plant/Project in NCT of Delhi. (Para 4.8.4)
OTHER ISSUES
DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR
The Committee finds that out of the total package of ` 80,068 crore under Prime Minister's Development Package for J&K, projects of ` 67,046 crore have been sanctioned and ` 17,913 crore has been released to the State Government of J&K/implementing agencies. Seven projects are at different stages of implementation. In that regard, the Committee would like to be informed about the total amount disbursed so far for payment of Honorarium to the SPOs at the enhanced rate of ` 6000 per month and the number of beneficiaries; further progress made in raising of the 5 IR Battalions in J&K at approx. cost of ` 60 crore per Bn; status of projects amounting to ` 255.30 crore already sanctioned and remaining proposals/projects of ` 245 crore pertaining to security and law & order/system in J&K; progress achieved with regard to construction of 6000 transit accommodation in the Kashmir valley; implementation status project on creation of 3000 jobs as identified by State Government in 18 different departments; and latest status of implementation rehabilitation package for one time settlement of 36,384 families from PoK and Chhamb DPs. The Committee, in this regard, recommends that the Ministry of Home Affairs, in tandem with State Government of J&K should ensure timely implementation of undertaken projects of ` 80,068 crore under Prime Minister's Development Package of J&K. (Para 4.9.4) 63
MINUTES
VII
SEVENTH MEETING
The Committee met at 4.30 P.M. on Thursday, the 8th February, 2018 in Room No. 63, First Floor, Parliament House, New Delhi.
MEMBERS PRESENT
1. Shri P. Chidambaram—Chairman
RAJYA SABHA
2. Dr. V. Maitreyan
3. Shri Shamsher Singh Manhas
4. Shri Derek O' Brien
5. Shri K. Bhabananda Singh
LOK SABHA
6. Dr. Sanjeev Balyan
7. Shri Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury
8. Shri Ramen Deka
9. Shrimati Kirron Kher
10. Shri P. Nagarajan
11. Shri Baijayant "Jay" Panda
12. Shri Natubhai Gomanbhai Patel
13. Shri Bheemrao B. Patil
14. Shri Bishnu Pada Ray
SECRETARIAT
Shri Rohtas, Joint Secretary
Shri Vimal Kumar, Director
Dr. (Smt.) Subhashree Panigrahi, Additional Director
Shri Bhupendra Bhaskar, Additional Director
Shri Pritam Kumar, Under Secretary
2. At the outset, the Chairman welcomed the Members to the meeting of the Committee and apprised them about the agenda of the meeting i.e. to consider and adopt the following four draft Reports of the
65 66
Committee:
(i) * * *
(ii) 206th Report on Action Taken by Government on the Recommendations/Observations contained in the Two Hundred First Report on Demands for Grants (2017-18) of the Ministry of Home Affairs;
(iii) * * *
(iv) * * *
3. * * *
4. Thereafter, the Committee took up draft 206th Report for consideration. One of the Members suggested some additions/changes in the draft Report in the part pertaining to Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Committee considered the suggestions made by the Member and agreed to make changes as detailed below:
(i) Para 3.5.3 be amended as:-
The Committee recommends that the Ministry must take an early decision on the implementation of the 4th Finance Commission of UT after consulting the elected representatives of various local bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). The Committee may be apprised of the decision taken in this regard;
(ii) Para 3.5.4 be amended as under:
The Committee takes note of the fact that the proposals given by the elected representatives of the people were not considered while taking up the roads for improvement and up- gradaiton under the PMGSY-II. The Committee recommends that the Ministry must take into account the roads identified by the elected representatives for improvement under the PMGSY-II. The Committee also recommends that the Ministry must enforce accountability among the officials charged with the responsibility;
(iii) Para 3.5.5, be inserted as under:
The Committee is disappointed to note that appropriate measures have not been taken to either control the stream bank erosion or to provide alternative land to the affected persons. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the representations made by the elected representatives regarding the allotment of alternative land to those whose lands had been eroded must be given high priority and suitable decisions should be taken quickly without further delay;
(iv) Para 3.5.6, be inserted as under:
The Committee also takes note of the delay in extension of the service benefits to 495 electricity mazdoors as per the Court's order due to incessant web of litigation initiated by
***Relate to other Matters. 67
the UT Administration of A&N Islands to deny the electricity mazdoors their rights. The Committee is disappointed to note that after the SLP was dismissed, the Administration, instead of implementing the judgment, has filed a review petition. Now that the review petition has also been dismissed, the Committee, recommends, that this judgment should be implemented forthwith and the electricity mazdoors may be granted service benefits at the earliest; and
(v) Para 3.5.7, be inserted as under:
The Committee is disappointed to note that at this stage, a further Committee on land matters of A&N Islands was constituted rather than taking action on the decisions taken earlier.
4.1 The Committee, then, adopted draft 206 Report with above mentioned changes.
5. * * *
6. * * *
7. The Committee authorized the Chairman to carry out any typographical/factual errors, if any and if necessary further vetting of the Reports.
7.1 The Committee also decided to present/lay these Reports in both the Houses of Parliament during the second part of this current Session.
8. A Verbatim record of the proceeding of the meeting of the Committee was kept.
9. The Committee then adjourned at 5.05 P.M.
***Relate to other Matters.
ANNEXURES
ANNEXURE-I
Status Report on each point on the recommendations contained in the 201st Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs on Demands for Grants (2017-18) of Ministry of Home Affairs in Respect of U.T. of A & N Islands:
(1) Progress of 02 Nos. Creek Bridge (Middle Strait and Humphrey Strait) sanctioned by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
Status
Humphrey Strait Creek Bridge -
The project has been awarded to M/s MBZ-RDS (JV), vide letter of award (LoA) dated 15.02.2017.
Middle Strait Bridges-
Stage-I forest clearance obtained. CRZ clearance is under deliberation by MoEF&CC as one of the approach is falling under Jarawa Reserve Area.
The bid shall be received after the grant of CRZ clearance. Interlocutory Application has been filed to de-notify Jarwa Reserve for the approach road.
(2) Status of PMGSY-II (A&N Islands)
Status
Administration has taken up preparation of DPR for 131.99 km. of rural road under PMGSY-II for improvement & up-gradation. The DPR is under preparation for submission to Ministry of Rural Development for approval and release of fund. Subsequently, possibility of taking up more roads for improvement under PMGSY-II shall be explored with MoRD.
(3) Implementation of recommendation of 4th Finance Commission of UT
Status
The recommendation of the commission is under consideration in the Ministry.
(4) Status of Sub-Marine Optical Fibre cable between Chennai to A&N Islands
Status
• Department of Telecommunication, GoI engaged M/s. Telecommunication Consultant India Ltd. (TCIL) as consultant for the project.
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Hon'ble Prime Minister in its meeting held on 21.09.2016 approved the DPR of the project at a total estimated cost of `1102.38 Crores (capital cost of `880.03 Crores and Operation and Maintenance cost of `222.35 Crore for 5 years).
• RFP for the project is to be published by BSNL shortly.
71 72
(5) Bank erosion - To control the soil erosion
Status
Preliminary survey of stream bank erosion of affected areas in North & Middle Andaman district and South Andaman district has been completed by the Agriculture Department. As the erosion which was taking place due to stream bank is large in size, hence the same is now being thoroughly assessed by the Revenue Department. The matter is under process.
(6) Extension of service benefit to 495 Electricity Mazdoors as per Court orders.
Status
During the year 1994 to 1997 the department has engaged 677 DRM for execution of departmental work. The department on completion of the work dis-engaged all the DRM w.e.f. 01.04.1997. All the above DRM by the act of the department approached the Labour Commissioner, Port Blair. The Labour Commission passed an order in ID case bearing No. 4 of 1998. Being heard the Hon'ble ID Court passed an order stating that all the above workers are entitled to be reinstated in to with immediate effect in the same category in which they were employed immediately before the retrenchment. These workers are entitled to be treated to be in continuous service only for the purpose of getting consequential service if any, notionally, they would have earned had they not been retrenched however none of these worker shall be entitled any back wages.
All workers were re-engaged and department taken up the matter to create the post of RegularMazdoor to accommodate the DRM against newly created post. The Govt. of India, Ministry of Power vide letter No. 34/2/2005/R&R dated 29.06.2009 has conveyed approval for creation of 495 Mazdoors for purpose of regularizing these Mazdoors who were working as TSM & DRM with the condition that these post would be treated as personal to these Mazdoors and no vacancy arising out of death, retirement, resignation etc. in the category would be filled in future. Accordingly department regularized the service of all the above workmen.
On regularization of the services these worker approached the Hon'ble CAT, Kolkata Bench at Port Blair praying for regularization of their services with retrospective effect vide OA No. 34/A&N/2011. The said case was withdrawn by the petitioner at the later stage. Again a group of 133 Mazdoor approached the Hon'ble CAT, Kolkata sitting at Port Blair vide OA No. 62/A&N/2011. The said OA is also dismissed by the Hon'ble Court.
The workmen, dissatisfied with the decision of Hon'ble CAT's decision, moved WP in the Hon'ble High Court Bench sitting at Port Blair with the prayer to regularize their past service from the date of respective engagement. The Hon'ble High Court sitting Bench in the WPCT 666 of 2012 passed an order stating as:
"The writ petition succeeds only to the extent that the petitioners shall be deemed to be in service from the date of actual engagement only for the purpose of retiral and pensioner benefits and not for any other purpose. The writ application succeeds in part". 73
The Ministry of Power vide Letter No. 34/2/2005-R&R (Vol.II) dated 16th March, 2016 directed A & N Administration to file SLP against the Hon'ble High Court Order.
Accordingly, the Administration filed SLP vide No.16412 of 2016 and after giving necessary hearing the Hon'ble Supreme Court given their judgment as "we do not find any merit in this petition and the special leave petition is accordingly dismissed. However the question of law is kept open".
The A & N Administration has filed review application on 30.01.2017.
(7) One month compensatory payment to Fire service personnel; and
Status
The matter regarding payment of compensatory allowance (13th Months pay) in addition to normal salary and allowances in respect of Fire Service personnel of UT of A & N Administration was taken up with the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance. DOE returned the proposal of this Ministry with the observation that the 7th Pay Commission in paras 07.07.23 and 07.07.24 of its report while emphasising the need for model recruitment rules for Fire Fighting staff in UTs, have recommended for Risk and Hardship allowance on cell R2H3 of the Risk and Hardship Matrix, keeping in view risk & hardship faced by these employees. The DOE had further intimated that aforesaid recommendation including others on allowances was referred to High Level Committee chaired by the Finance Secretary for examination. Accordingly, once a decision is taken by the Government on the recommendations of the Committee and if Risk & Hardship allowance is payable to these staff in all UTs, the issue would stand adequately addressed.
The status of the report is being obtained from the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.
(8) Resolution of following long pending issues on Submerged land
Status
A committee on land matters of A & N Islands is being constituted to examine the issue and to make its recommendations to this Ministry. 74
ANNEXURE-II
Action Taken Replies (ATRs) on the Recommendations contained in the 201st Report of the Department related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs on Demands for Grants (2017-18) of Ministry of Home Affairs
1. Setting up of one Medical College, One College and One Degree Engineering College. Though the literacy of the UT is in the top 5 of the country still they do not have the colleges for the eligible students who have to go elsewhere for pursuing higher studies.
Medical College at Daman:
To start a medical college, minimum 300 bedded hospitals and 20 acres of land is required. Presently, Daman District Hospital has only 130 beds. Land is also a constraint in Daman. Administration of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is planning to start a medical college of 100 seats on PPP mode through a competitive bidding process. The proposed medical College in Dadra & Nagar Haveli would have seats reserved for students of Daman & Diu.
Engineering College at Daman:
Administration of Daman and Diu is taking steps to start a Government Engineering College in the UT. 10 acres of land for this purpose has been earmarked. An architect has been appointed to prepare the design of the college building. Since All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), norms require a separate building for any new Engineering College, the Government Engineering College, Daman will be started after construction of aforesaid Building.
2. The Administration of Daman & Diu had entered into an MOU with the Dredging Corporation of India to dredge the silt deposited at the mouth of Damanganga and the shoreline to enable making larger jetties/minor ports for bigger fishing vessels. The matter is pending before the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for their approval for a long time causing delay in dredging.
U.T. Administration of Daman & Diu has entered into the MOU with Dredging Corporation of India to Dredge out the silt deposited at mouth of Daman Ganga river. In this regards all the studies has been completed and DCI has submitted estimate of `71.28Corers. Before taking up this work of Dredging, Environmental Clearances from Ministry of Environment and forest is required. This U.T. Administration has applied for Environmental Clearance to The National Coastal Management Authorities, GOI, Ministry of Environment and Forest, New Delhi vide letter No.MD/ PO-DIU/DRDG ENV./F.45/2016-17/389 dated 11/05/2016. In reply the Ministry of Environment and Forest and Climate change, GOI, New Delhi has stated to submit the proposal on line with all relevant documents including CRZ and local environmental clearance. This UT Administration has applied for local Environmental Clearance and CRZ Clearance to the Member Secretary (PCC) / DDCZMA, which are being awaited from the authority. After obtaining this clearances, U.T. Administration will apply on line to the National Coastal Management Authorities, GOI New Delhi for Environmental clearance.
74 75
3. Diu has an airport which is under expansion for which the work is under progress and on completion would need regional connectivity. Daman has an airport used by the Coast Guard. Civilian flights can be operated only if there is a Civil Terminal for which the Administration would need land further from the Coast Guard terminal. There is a need to procure the same by the UT administration for providing regional flights from Daman.
The proposal for acquisition of land for building commercial terminal was made in the year 2013. The matter got entangled in litigation and finally vide order dated 24.10.2016, Hon'ble High Court has directed to start land acquisition procedure as afresh. The UT Administration is finalizing new proposal for land acquisition at Daman for commercial air terminal.
4. Work on approved bridges over the rivers flowing through Daman and those joining the island of Diu to Gujarat mainland have been stalled by the UT administration which should be implemented.
Daman District
The following 3 bridges are dropped due to reasons shown as under:
(i) Cable stayed/extra dosed bridge from Moti Daman light house to Nani Daman Jetty.
Local people of Daman has raised their objections for construction of bridge due to submerge of the two streets due to construction of approaches of the bridge. Also, fisherman community had also objected the construction of the said bridge due to problem of Navigation Height. Further, the clearance from the Archaeological Survey of India has not received till date.
(ii) Construction of bridge across Kalai River connecting Jampore Moti Daman to Kalai Village in Gujarat at Daman.
Alignment of bridge is not suitable for easy movement of the traffic. No other alignment is feasible for surrounding areas. The land acquisition towards Gujarat side is required and the connecting road is also required to be widened which require demolition of houses towards Gujarat side.
(iii) Construction of bridge across Kolak River connecting Kadaiya Nani Daman to Kolak Village in Gujarat.
The land acquisition towards Gujarat side is required and the connection road is also required to be widened.
Diu District
The following bridge is dropped due to reasons shown as under:
Construction of bridge connection Vanakbara in Diu District and Kotda in Gujarat State.
The land acquisition towards Gujarat side is required and the connection road is also required to be widened.
However, the additional TAD Bridge connecting Fatak in Diu District and Tad in Gujarat State (North Side) is under construction and expected to be completed by end of June, 2017. 76
5. Notwithstanding the implementation of GST during the next Financial Year, the tax holiday be extended beyond 2017, so that there is no exodus in the industrial sector and to save employment.
The Administration of the UT of Daman and Diu has made a request to the Ministry of Home Affairs for extension of Tax benefits beyond 2017 to the Industries of Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The issue has been examined in consultation with Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance. Some information/details has been required from UT Admn., which is still awaited.
Moreover, the UT Administration has formulated a robust Industrial Policy, which was announced on 22.01.2015, to retain existing industries and attract more industries. An Investment Promotion Scheme has also been launched towards this end.
6. An Oceanarium proposed at Diu is pending for implementation.
Ocenarium plays a vital role in conservation research and infotainment in many parts of the world.
The UT Administration of Daman & Diu has identified a piece of land right on Diu Coast for setting up of National Oceanarium. The Administration had requested the Ministry of Earth Sciences, to assess the technical viability of the sites available with the Administration and design and establishment the Oceanarium according to the site conditions. The MoES designated the ESSO- NIOT to do the assessment and submit a report. It has been informed that the Ministry has decided to go with an umbrella agreement and further details will be part of an implementing agreement which will be signed once the EFC for the same is approved. The Ministry has also requested Collector, Diu to allot 15 acres of land adjacent to the existing 35 acres plot to establish field laboratory at Diu and spatial planning work of the site allocated.
A technical team of the Ministry has visited Diu from 09/01/2017 to 12/01/2017 and collected water and soil samples. The report is still awaited.
7. Further action will be taken based on the said report. Sanjeevani Swastha Bima Yojna has not been renewed after December, 2016. This was a very good scheme for the poor, the aged and the down trodden. The same may be restored and a Speciality and Super Speciality hospitals may also be added.
Sanjeevni Swasthya Bima Yojana has been tendered and in a month's time it would be implemented and more Super speciality and Speciality Hospitals would be included.
8. The Administration of the UT has entered into arrangements for drinking water for Daman from Madhuban Dam and for Diu from Raval Dam upto the reservoirs in both Daman and Diu but are clueless with regard to its distribution. Even if there are supply pipe lines to Daman and Diu they are at least 40 years old and require replacement. Adequate Budget may be allocated for this project.
Daman District:
There is an agreement between Govt. of Gujarat and U.T. of Daman & Diu regarding release of water from Madhuban Dam for following purposes and quantity. 77
Sl. Purpose Quantity No. (MLD)
1. Irrigation 70.13
2. Drinking water supply 23.00
TOTAL 93.93
Due to industrialization and urbanization of Daman District, requirement of water for irrigation has reduced drastically and most of the water released from Madhuban Dam will be utilized for drinking purpose after treatment. Accordingly, a pipeline is being laid to bring 64 MLD water from Madhuban Dam to Dabhel Pond and Dunetha Pond. Accordingly, works for installation of 3 new Water Treatment Plants (20.5 MLD at Dabhel, 12 MLD at Magarwada and 17 MLD at Dunetha) are at various stages of execution. As on date 2 WTPs at Dabhel (16 MLD) and Magarwada (5 MLD) are in operation. After commissioning of all these schemes there will be sufficient potable water available for Daman District.
(i) The work of implementation of 17 MLD water supply scheme at Dunetha, Daman is in progress. About 90% of work is completed.
(ii) The work of water supply pipeline from madhuban Dam left Bank Canal to Dabhel tank Dunetha tank and Bhimtalav at Magarwada, Moti Daman is in progress. About 78% of work is completed.
(iii) The work of Augmentation of Nani Daman water supply scheme (20.5 MLD Capacity) is in progress. About 20% of work is completed.
The work of Augmentation of water supply scheme at Moti Daman based on Bhamti Branch canal of Madhuban Dam (12 MLD Capacity) is in progress. About 25% of work is completed.
Diu District:
In addition to the existing 4.5 MLD Water Treatment Plant at Ghoghla based on raw water available from Rawal Dam, the new 4.5 MLD raw water from Sardar Sarovar Canal based Pipeline has been released in first phase by GWIL, Gandhinagar. At present, the testing and commissioning of new 8 MLD Water Treatment Plant at Kevdi is under progress and there will be sufficient potable water available for Diu District.
The new water supply scheme has laid 35 km. distribution pipeline. Further replacing of old distribution pipelines will be initiated phase wise.
9. Daman requires ample parking space in the Municipal limits of Daman. Roads also require to be re-laid in the limits. Adequate budget should be provided for the same.
Daman Municipal Council has made provision of ` 11,00,00,000/- budget for the year 2017-18 for new roads, upgradation and maintenance of road for Nani Daman/ Moti Daman.
Daman Municipal has limited open space due to which parking area available is restricted but efforts are being made to identify areas and provide adequate parking facilities for the public & 78
tourist in general. Daman Municipal council is also taking up to repair of existing parking cum Taxi stand at Nani Daman.
10. There is a vast difference in the wages of specialized doctors recruited in Daman and Diu. The wages of these doctors in Diu are higher than those recruited in Daman - the reason being that Diu is a remote place and it is necessary for doctors to work in Diu. But this has also not attracted applications from specialized doctors in both Daman & Diu because Diu is isolated and lower salary is paid in Daman. This anomaly should be rectified.
The Department is aware of the discrepancies in salary of the doctors working in UT of Daman and Diu. The Department has taken up the matter, to rationalize the salaries.
11. To further promote tourism in Daman, extensive cleaning of both the Devka and Jampore beaches should be taken up. Damanganga River also needs to be cleaned up both from contamination of ground water and to save marine life of the river and sea shore. The Administration of Daman & Diu has proposed to remove all the kiosks in Devka and Jampore without providing any alternative sites to small vendors doing business there for the last more than 20 years. If no alternative is given, these small vendors would be rendered without any business.
The Devka and Jampore beaches are being cleaned regularly through a beach cleaning agency outsourced by the Department of Tourism, Daman. Monitoring of cleaning operation is also being done regularly.
The UT Administration is committed to continuous improvement of water quality of the Damanganga river. Services of the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur have been hired for preparation of a "Comprehensive Plan for the abatement of Pollution in Damanganga River".
Further action on the improvement of water quality of Damanganga river shall be taken on receipt of the detailed report from NEERI. For the small vendors proposed to be removed from the Devka and Jampore, alternative site for temporary shacks will be provided.
12. All vacancies in Group C and non-gazetted Group B to be filled up from locals only both in Daman & Diu.
As per the advice of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi vide letter No. U-14014/38/2012-CPD dated 14/10/2013 to consider giving some weightage/ preference to the local people in direct recruitment in respect of Group 'D', 'C' & 'B', the UT Administration of Daman & Diu has issued necessary guidelines vide circular dated 03/12/2015.
13. The work pertaining to Adarsh Gram Yojana in Daman & Diu should be expedited and appropriate allocation should be made for the same;
The UT Administration has taken Pariyari Group Gram Panchayat as Adarsh Gram under SAGY and various development activities are being carried out by different departments. SAGY is being monitored on priority basis by the Collector. Fund for various developmental activities under the scheme will be provided from the budget provision of the concerned departments. 79
ANNEXURE-III
Status Report on each point on the Recommendations contained in the 201st Report of the Department-Related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs on Demands for Grants (2017-18) of Ministry of Home Affairs in respect of U.T.of Dadra & Nagar Haveli:
(1) Setting up of medical and engineering college:
• The proposal for Medical College has been tendered thrice by the UT Administration for setting up the Medical College in PPP mode. Only one tenderer has quoted all the three times and it being a single tender, could not be processed. The UT Administration is putting up the revised guidelines for re-tendering of the above, which would take about a month.
A policy decision was taken by the UT Administration of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman - Diu to establish a Degree College of Engineering in Daman and a Medical College in Dadra & Nagar Haveli to provide maximum opportunity to the students of both the UTs.
At present, an initiative for establishing the Engineering College is being taken at Daman for the Students of the UTs of Daman and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. It is pertinent to mentioned that, the distance between Daman and Dadra & Nagar Haveli is just around 30 kilometres.
(2) Improvement of School education by providing better infrastructure:
• All the Schools in this UT are running in pucca building and most of them have RCC roof. The construction of 06 new buildings for Secondary and Higher Secondary Schools will be undertaken next current financial year. Similarly, construction of 05 new school buildings for Primary Schools and 709 additional Class Rooms in existing Primary School Building will be undertaken shortly. Repair's work shall also be taken separately wherever is required in these schools.
3. Completion of Phase-I and beginning of Phase -2 of the Silvassa Ring Road Project:
• Due to rapid growth of Industrial units in this Union Territory, there is a heavy vehicular traffic from other states. The Union Territory Administration therefore, had decided to construct a Ring Road to by-pass Silvassa town and to avoid any traffic congestion in the town area.
• In this regard, the necessary preliminary survey and investigation work for Ring Road was conducted and the alignment has been finalized through the School of Planning & Architects, New Delhi.
• The total length of Ring road is 11.30 km which had been sub divided into 08 stretches, A to H for the purpose of design and cost estimation. This Ring road is proposed to be constructed 4-lane with main carriage way of 7.50 Mt. wide with 2.50 Mt. side shoulders on either side. There shall be 23 cross drainage structures along the road and two major Bridges across the Piparia river/local Nalla.
79 80
• The construction of 1st phase Ring road of 4.30 km. stretches costing to Rs 28.00 Crore is given TOP PRIORITY by the UT Administration and construction work is already under progress, which can divert/by-pass the maximum heavy volume of traffic from the Silvassa town.
• Further, the 2nd phase of construction of Ring Road stretches F to G having 1.75 kms. and E to F having 0.95 km. have been recently initiated i.e. 7.5 kms. construction of Ring Road is under progress.
(4) Development of River Front on Priority:
• The project of Damanganga Riverfront at Silvassa is in progress and the same is being executed in phase wise manner.
• The work of Riverfront Phase-1 i.e. Construction of Retaining wall has been completed.
• The work of Riverfront Phase-2 consisting of development from existing Athal Bridge to existing Aqueduct upstream side of river which consisting River Edge Walk Way, S-Plaza, I-Plaza, L-Plaza, A-Plaza, Security Surveillance, Toilet Block, Landscaping work, External Lighting works, Parking facilities. There is a proposal of Pedestrian Bridge along with Amphitheatre at a stretch of 200.00 Mtr. for which the planning is under process which is in between the work of Riverfront Phase-2.
• Further, the work of Damanganga Riverfront Development (Phase-2) was awarded to M/s. D. H. Patel, Surat for an amount of ` 25.51 Crore on 17/03/2015. The physical work progress as on 06/04/2017 is about 65%. The up to date expenditure for the said work is ` 14.69 Crore.
• The work of Riverfront Phase-3 consisting of development from existing Athal Bridge to New Modern Crematorium at downstream side of river which consisting River Edge Walk Way, Ghat, VisarjanKund, Pavilion, Landscaping work, External Lighting works. The said work is also awarded to M/s. D. H. Patel, Surat for an amount of ` 8.74 Crore on 23/05/ 2016. The said work is in progress and the physical work progress as on 06/04/2017 is about 40%. The up to date expenditure for the said work is `2.72 Crore.
• Further, the work of Consultancy for Construction of Pedestrian Bridge and Amphitheatre at Damanganga River front project which is part of Damanganga Riverfront Development, was awarded to M/s. Design & Planning Council (DPC), Ahmedabad on 19/04/2016. The consultant had submitted the conceptual plan and the same is being finalized by the U.T. Administration. This proposal is important in nature and necessary to have proper connectivity for River Front walk way for complete stretch from Athal Bridge to existing Aqueduct at upstream side of Athal Bridge and for protection of RCC wall at North side of New Circuit House.
(5) Improvement of the drainage system and redesigning the same:
• Design for the drainage system in Dadra, Naroli, Masat, Sayli and Rakholi has already been prepared by the Planning & Development Authority, Silvassa. Estimate was prepared on the 81
basis of the CPWD SOR and now the revised estimate is being prepared on the basis of the Gujarat SOR.
(6) Provision of health parks at Silvassa and sports complex at Khanvel:
• The UT Administration has planned a Prevention of Lifestyle Disease Park. The department of Medical & Health Services, Silvassa had tendered to appoint a consultant for making the DPR for the same. Meanwhile, land is being identified near Silvassa for setting up of the Prevention of Lifestyle Disease Park.
• The UT Administration has decided to develop playground with pavilion and Indoor/Outdoor games at Khanvel and Amboli villages. UT Administration has allotted Govt. land bearing Survey No.17 admeasuring 3.44 Hect. of village Chauda and Govt. land bearing Survey No.168 admeasuring 7.45 Hect. of village Amboli for construction of Rural Sports Complex.
• The Public Works Department of Dadra & Nagar Haveli does not have its design wing therefore for designing purpose RFP was invited for engaging private consultant to carry- out the study and prepare the proposal in the planned and comprehensive manner. Accordingly, to meet the requirement as per assignment mentioned in the detail scope of work. The Tenders have already been received and the same are being scrutinized.
(7) Promotion of tourism infrastructure:
(i) Randha - The land available with Tourism Department is 17.49 Hectares (8.81 Hectares in Mota Randha and 8.68 Hectares in Nana Randha) The Department of Tourism, D&NH is planning to introduce boating in Kolak River at Randha. The Concept of "Rural Tourism" was proposed for the land available at Randha village, in which the following components are included:-
• Eco-Tourism Resorts
• Tribal Haat
• Model village
• Toilet blocks
• Agro & Allied activities
(ii) Dudhani- The existing infrastructure facilities available at Dudhani are as under:
• 14 Rooms
• 1 Restaurant
• 1 Reception Centre
All the above mentioned facilities are currently operational. The river front of Dudhani Lake 82
is newly developed by the PWD. The Tourism Department, proposed to set up Water Sports and Adventure Sports facilities at Dudhani.
(iii) Khanvel - The land available with Tourism Department is 54 Hectares. The Department of Tourism proposed to develop a Golf Course etc.
(iv) Luhari- The land available with the Tourism Department is 12.32 Hectares. The existing infrastructure facilities available at Luhari are as under:
• 4 Deluxe Rooms
• 2 Super Deluxe Rooms
• 1 Dormitory
• 1 Kitchen
All the above mentioned facilities are currently in dilapidated condition and are not operation due to acute shortage of water. However the Tourism Department proposed to develop a Rock Garden and Science Center at Luhari.
(v) Athal - Athal'PaanDungri' is within the Forests' reserved area. However, the feasibility study for the project of Ropeway shall be conducted.
(8) Filling up of the 819 vacant posts in administation through fresh recruitment and also holding regular DPC meeting to fill up certain vacancies through timely promotion.
• The Hon'ble Administrator has decided to constitute Recruitment Board for filling up the vacant posts in the UT Administration. The proposal is formulated to this effect and sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs for concurrence. The Ministry of Home Affairs has advised the Administrator that it is within his competence to adopt a transparent mode of recruitment as the Appointing Authority in Administration.
• A Departmental Promotion Committee has already been constituted in the UT Administration of Dadra & Nagar Haveli for holding DPCs. Regular DPCs are being held. Instructions issued by the Central Government in this regard has been circulated to all the departments of D&NH by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms to initiate action in advance of the commencement of the vacancy year so as to have the approved select panel ready before start of the vacancy year and ensure timely promotions to the employees. For vacancies occurring due to death, voluntary retirement, new creation etc. which could not be foreseen at the time of placing facts and material before the DPC, another meeting of DPC (Commonly referred to Supplementary DPC) is also held for drawing up a panel for these vacancies. Since 2013, total 88 posts have been filled up by promotion. 83
ANNEXURE - IV
Sl. No Island Details Status
1. Kavaratti 6 Nos. type IV quarters Finishing work in progress
2. Kavaratti 30 Nos. type III quarters Finishing work in progress
3. Kavaratti 6 Nos. type Ill quarters 2nd floor roof casting in progress
4. Agatti 3 Nos. type IV quarters 2nd floor roof casting in progress
5. Agatti 30 Nos. type III quarters 2nd floor roof casting in progress
6. Minicoy 4 Nos. type Ill quarters Ground floor slab cassted. Plastering work in progress
7. Minicoy 8 Nos. type II quarters double First block plastering work in progress storied building of two blocks & Second block lintel work in progress
8. Minicoy 4 Nos. type II quarters First floor plastering work in progress
9. Chetlat (Bitra) 4 Nos. type I quarters Tender called
10. Chetlat (Bitra) 2 Nos. type I quarters Tender called
83 84
ANNEXURE-V
Status Report
Sub:- Regarding additional requirement of rice for implementation of National Food Security Act. (NFSA) in UT of Lakshadweep.
Considering the fact that, UT of Lakshadweep is a non agrarian state and resultantly a dependent one, the Hon'ble Administrator vide his D.O. letter dated 25.02.2017 had requested the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution to consider and increase the allocation quota of A grade rice to UT of Lakshadweep by another 1200 MT per annum at the same price.
The Hon'ble Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Govt. of India New Delhi vide their D.O letter No. 2/Lakshadweep/2015-13.P 111/855 dated 10.03.2017 has informed that it is not possible to increase the quota of allocation under NFSA and has advised that the additional procurement may be made through OMSS.
UT Administration has difficulty in connection with handling the additional requirement of rice through e-auction. In view of the above, UT Administration has approached to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution with request to exempt Lakshadweep from participating in the e- auction and the additional requirement of 1200 MT of rice per annum may be allocated at minimum fixed reserved price for OMSS category.
Considering the difficulties of people of Lakshadweep, UT Administration has approved the additional allocation of rice of 2kg/ per person / month to the PDS beneficiaries covered under Tide Over Category.
UT Administration has requested to Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution for additional allocation of 1200 MT per annum of economic rice to be made in favor of UT Administration for the above purpose.
84