Cover-184 Report

DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY-FOURTH REPORT ON ACTION TAKEN BY THE GOVERNMENT ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED IN THE ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY-FOURTH REPORT OF THE DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS ON THE DEMANDS FOR GRANTS (2007-2008) OF THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(PRESENTED TO THE RAJYA SABHA ON THE 11TH MARCH, 2008) (LAID ON THE TABLE OF THE LOK SABHA ON THE 11TH MARCH, 2008)

RAJYA SABHA SECRETARIAT NEW DELHI MARCH, 2008/PHALGUNA, 1929 (SAKA) Website:http://rajyasabha.nic.in E-mail:[email protected] PARLIAMENT OF INDIA RAJYA SABHA

DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS

(PRESENTED TO THE RAJYA SABHA ON THE 11TH MARCH, 2008) (LAID ON THE TABLE OF THE LOK SABHA ON THE 11TH MARCH, 2008)

RAJYA SABHA SECRETARIAT NEW DELHI

MARCH, 2008/PHALGUNA, 1929 (SAKA)

CONTENTS

PAGES

1. COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE ...... (i)-(ii)

2. INTRODUCTION ...... (iii)

3. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ...... 1—24

4. MINUTES OF THE MEETING ...... 25—27

COMPOSITION OF THE DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (2007-08)

1. Dr. V. Maitreyan – Chairman RAJYA SABHA 2. Dr. Prabha Thakur 3. Shri Suryakantbhai Acharya 4. Shri Bhagirathi Majhi 5. Shri Kamal Akhtar 6. Shri Saman Pathak 7. Shri Jabir Husain 8. Shri Ravula Chandra Sekar Reddy 9. Dr. Barun Mukherjee *10. Shri D. Raja LOK SABHA 11. Shri Jasubhai Dhanabhai Barad 12. Dr. Sujan Chakraborty 13. Shri Thupstan Chhewang 14. Shri Pankaj Chowdhary 15. Shri Francis Fanthome 16. Shri Babubhai K. Katara 17. Shri A. Venkatesh Naik 18. Shri Brahmananda Panda 19. Shrimati Neeta Pateriya 20. Shri Jaysingrao Gaikwad Patil 21. Shri Pratik P. Patil 22. Shri Bachi Singh 'Bachda' Rawat 23. Shri K.C. Singh "Baba" 24. Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh #25. Vacant 26. Shri Rampal Singh 27. Shrimati Jayaben B. Thakkar 28. Shri Aruna Kumar Vundavalli 29. Shri Akhilesh Yadav 30. Shri Mitrasen Yadav 31. Shri Sita Ram Yadav

* Nominated w.e.f. 28th August, 2007. # Vacancy caused due to resignation of Shri Rakesh Singh from the Committee w.e.f. lst December, 2007.

(i) (ii)

SECRETARIAT Shrimati Agnes Momin George, Joint Secretary Shri S. Jason, Joint Director Shri V.S.P. Singh, Deputy Director Shri S. Rangarajan, Assistant Director INTRODUCTION

I, the Chairman of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment and Forests, having been authorised by the Committee to present the Report on its behalf, present this One Hundred Eighty-fourth Report on the Action Taken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests on the recommendations contained in One Hundred Seventy-fourth Report of the Committee on Demands for Grants (2007-08) of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. 2. The Report of the Committee deals with the Action Taken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests on the recommendations contained in the One Hundred and Seventy-fourth Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment and Forests on the Demands for Grants (2007-08) of the Ministry of Environment and Forests which was presented to the Rajya Sabha on 26th April, 2007.

3. There were twenty-three recommendations contained in the One Hundred Seventy-fourth Report of the Committee. Action Taken Notes on the recommendations of the Committee were received from the Ministry on 26th October, 2007.

4. In the meeting held on 4th March, 2008 the Committee considered the draft Action Taken Report and adopted the same.

Dr. V. Maitreyan NEW DELHI; Chairman, March 4, 2008 Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment and Forests.

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REPORT

The Report of the Committee deals with the Action Taken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests on the recommendations contained in the One Hundred Seventy Fourth Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment and Forests on the Demands for Grants (2007-08) of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, which was presented to both the Houses of Parliament on 26th April, 2007. There were twenty-three recommendations in the Report of the Committee. Action Taken Notes on the recommendations of the Committee were received from the Ministry on 26th October, 2007. The Committee’s recommendations, action taken thereon and comments of the Committee on the Action Taken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests are set out in the succeeding paragraphs:— REVIEW OF PLAN OUTLAY 2006-07 AND PROPOSALS FOR 2007-08 1. Recommendation (Para 5.5) The Committee is concerned with the way the budgetary allocation has been made in respect of the Ministry of Environment and Forests during the year 2007-08. It has been observed that there is just 1.2 per cent increase in overall budget allocations as compared to last year’s allocations. It appears that the Planning Commission has not even considered the normal rate of inflation. At the same time, Committee would like to have clarification from Ministry in this context as to what are the specific reasons due to which the Planning Commission has approved such a tight budgetary allocation to the Ministry. The committee has strong apprehensions that with such tight budget, Ministry would not be able to pursue its ongoing schemes with vigour. The Committee recommends that their allocations be re-examined in view of the increasing need to maintain high quality of environmental inputs. Action Taken by the Government Overall budgetary allocations for the Ministry was increased from Rs. 1520.14 crores in 2006-07 (BE) to Rs. 1539.00 crores in 2007-08, implying an increase of 1.24 per cent. Plan outlay was increased from Rs. 1338.93 crores in 2006-07 to Rs. 1351.00 crores, indicating an increase of 0.90 per cent, and non-plan outlay was enhanced from Rs. 181.21 crores in 2006-07 to Rs. 188.00 crores in 2007-08, a rise of 3.75 per cent. Thus, the low increase in Ministry’s budget in 2007-08 was on account of only a marginal increase in Ministry’s plan budget for 2007-08. Planning Commission, in plan discussions with the Ministry, had approved a plan outlay of Rs. 1421.00 crores for 2007-08, implying a normal step up of 6.1 per cent over the previous year. Subsequently, and as a part of its Zero Based Budgeting Exercise, Planning Commission deducted an amount of Rs. 70 crores from this approved plan outlay, transferring these salary and establishment related expenses from Plan to Non-Plan budget of the Ministry. This recommendation of the Planning Commission to the Finance Ministry resulted in a reduction of Plan Budget of the Ministry to Rs. 1351 crores, while the Non-Plan Budget of the Ministry was required to be correspondingly enhanced by the Finance Ministry. While this reduction in Plan Budget was effected by the Planning Commission while allocating plan outlays to the Ministry, corresponding enhancement of Ministry’s Non-Plan Budget in 2007-08 by the Finance Ministry was not operationalized. Subsequently it was clarified by the Finance Ministry, that such transfers from Plan to Non-Plan budget, as effected by the Planning Commission, were not possible in case of ongoing schemes. The enhanced requirement of the Ministry will, thus, be examined/considered at Revised 2

Estimates stage, keeping in view its plan fund requirements and the actual performance during the first half of the current financial year. Comments The Committee expresses its serious concern over the fact that there has been a severe curtailment of funds for the Ministry, despite the fact that there is a greater need to invest substantially to contain the phenomena of environmental degradation and global warming. The Committee feels that the Ministry has not been able to project its funds requirements to the Planning Commission properly. The Committee recommends that the Planning Commission should be properly sensitized to the issue of funds allocation, during the discussions with the Ministry, keeping in view the urgent need for environmental protection. The Committee desires that the changes effected at the R.E. stage be intimated to the Committee. 2. Recommendation (Para 5.6) The Committee feels, that due importance has not been given to the budgetary demands under heads of Ministry of Environment and Forests by the Planning Commission. The Committee has further noted that expenditure cut during revised estimate stage, sometimes are plainly arbitrary. Very often the budgeted amount is not fully utilized because of the cut imposed in the plan outlays or delays in approval of projects by Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC). In view of the above, Committee recommends the Ministry to take this issue seriously because it needs comprehensive planning and deep introspection while framing the budgetary demands for various projects/schemes. Action Taken by the Government The recommendation of the Committee has been communicated to the Planning Commission and to the Ministry of Finance for its necessary compliance. Subject Divisions within the Ministry have also been directed to accord necessary importance to comprehensive planning/budgeting while framing budgetary demands for projects/schemes. Comments The Committee reiterates its recommendation that the issues of budgetary demands needs to be taken seriously and vigorously and emphatically presented and pursued with the Planning Commission as well as the Ministry of Finance. NEW SCHEMES 3. Recommendation (Para 6.2) As far as new schemes proposed by the Ministry for this year are concerned, the situation is far from good. The Committee has been given to understand that Ministry has proposed a total outlay of Rs. 1122.57 crores for eight new schemes; however, due to resource constraint and priority accorded to completion of ongoing schemes, only notional provisions have been made to only four new schemes with the budgetary allocation of just Rs. 0.40 lakhs. The Committee observes that with such a meagre amount, it would not be possible for Ministry to pursue these schemes with strength. It also recalls, that similar was the case with last year's proposed seven new schemes. Committee strongly recommends that Ministry should review its budgetary planning critically with the Planning Commission and it needs to make its physical and financial targets more realistic and acceptable in nature. Action Taken by the Government While the Annual Plan 2007-08 proposals were formulated within the overall context of the Eleventh Five Year Plan, the Eleventh Plan proposals for Ministries have not been finalized by the Planning Commission so far. Pending such a finalization of Eleventh Plan proposals, Planning 3

Commission had decided not to permit initiation of any new schemes in 2007-08, given their implications for the Eleventh Plan outlays, and thus according priority to completion of ongoing projects. Given such a policy approach by the Commission, no provisions were made for proposed new schemes of the Ministry in 2007-08 Plan, pending finalization of its Eleventh Plan proposals. However, notional provisions have been made for the four schemes, initiated in the preceding year, to enable completion of their project proposals. Meanwhile, the Ministry had undertaken a rationalization exercise of its plan schemes for the Eleventh Five Year Plan, based on which schemes to be taken up/continued in the Eleventh Plan have been decided. These proposals, along with proposed outlays, have been submitted to the Planning Commission towards finalization of Ministry’s Eleventh Five Year Plan. Comments The Committee feels that while the completion of ongoing projects should be accorded priority, the new schemes initiated, should not be left out because of paucity of funds and the Ministry should continue with its efforts of demanding more funds for the new schemes. REASONS FOR SHORTFALL IN UTILISATION OF THE OUTLAYS FOR 2006-07 4. Recommendation (Para 10.2) The Committee observes that non-utilization of the allocated funds by the Ministry under some schemes are due to procedural delays such as receipt of proposals, approval of schemes, changes in financing pattern, and timely release of matching funds by the State Governments etc. The Committee is of the view that Ministry should adopt a well chalked out comprehensive plan in respect of these schemes so that reduced expenditure or under utilization of funds could be avoided to a great extent. Further, the Ministry has to work out its entire plan in such a manner as a result of which its budgetary demands are well accepted by the Ministry of Finance and projects could be approved well in time. Action Taken by the Government Besides the Outcome Budget of the Ministry, which provides the financial and physical targets scheme-wise, an expenditure plan, comprising of quarterly internal targets of plan expenditure for each scheme, has been formulated by the Ministry. These targets of expenditure are closely and regularly monitored and timely remedial steps initiated to ensure utilization of funds allocated for these schemes. The rationalization of plan schemes by suitable merger/clubbing during the Eleventh Plan is also likely to increase the fungibility of resources, resulting in better utilization of these funds by schemes/projects merged/clubbed under a thematic scheme. Comments The Committee notes the reply and would like to reiterate that in future administrative/procedural delays which are routine in nature should not hamper the progress of various schemes/projects. RESEARCH 5. Recommendation (Para 13.4) The Committee feels that Environmental pollution could be curtailed to a large extent with the development of suitable cost-effective pollution abatement technologies. It is of the view that research could play an important role in generating such technologies and methodologies. It recommends that emphasis be laid on development of bio-degradable plastics, ways and means to 4 reduce impact of mining, chemical pollution of soils and hazardous substances including pesticides and heavy metals. Projects related to waste management and resource recovery from waste along with the development of eco-friendly and cleaner technologies may also be given priority. Action Taken by the Government Many of the problems related to pollution abatement can be resolved through proper application and upgradation of available technologies. In respect of various industrial operations, pollution control technologies have been developed and used while others need to adopt such technologies and look for newer technological interventions. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has documented the technology requirement for pollution control industry-wise covering following groups of industry categories: (a) Chemical industries (b) Agro based industries (c) Mining industries (d) Power Plants As per the preliminary findings of the project on ‘‘Establishment and Impact of Biodegradable Plastics on Environment/Food’’ jointly carried out by the CPCB and Central Institute of Plastics Engineering and Technology (CIPET), the bio-based or biodegradable plastics can form the basis for an environmentally preferable, sustainable alternative to current material based on petroleum feedstock. Biopolymers are generally capable of being utilized by living matter (biodegraded) and can be disposed in safe and ecologically sound ways like composting, soil application and biological waste water treatment. The final Report is expected in the month of March, 2008. With a view to reduce chemical pollution on soil a set of regulations including the Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules, 1989 amended 2000, 2003 has been notified which stipulates proper disposal of chemical waste generated. Need and planning for spill containment and accidental release is also prescribed in the MSIHC Rules, 1989 amended 2000. Guidelines for implementation of these rules have also been issued. In respect of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) which are mostly pesticides a National Implementation Plan (NIP) is being prepared to manage and phase out POP’s listed in the Stockholm convention to which India is a party from January, 2006. Comments The Committee is of the opinion that though many cost-effective technologies are available, due importance has not been accorded to their actual application. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the application of these technologies may be insured by the Ministry. Efforts should also be made by the Ministry to ensure that the polluting industries use these technologies for minimising/stopping the pollution levels. FOREST CONSERVATION, DEVELOPMENT AND REGENERATION 6. Recommendation (Para 14.4) Committee expresses its serious concern over the half-hearted approach adopted by the Ministry while making release of the investments to the concerned divisions in case of Integrated Forest Protection Scheme (IFPS), there is no use of the funds when it does not meet the requirements on time. The Committee is of the opinion that the lack of adequate management and monitoring had led to such non-utilization of funds. Hence the Committee strongly opines that the focused action plan needs to be prepared to meet the requisite demands of the field functionaries on timely basis. 5

7. Recommendation (Para 14.5) The Committee had earlier expressed its apprehensions about the transfer of IFPS to the State Governments and again reiterates that poor response from them is expected, since forest and wildlife conservation is not the priority area with State Governments and very meagre amount is left for the IFPS. The Committee, therefore, recommends that Ministry must take full control of IFPS, since lack of co-ordination between Centre and State could have ill-effects on a smooth running of a project/scheme and could lead to delay in meeting its stipulated targets. Action Taken by the Government During the current financial year, efforts are being made to ensure timely release of funds to the State Government. Action has been initiated to streamline the processing of the proposal in a time bound manner so that the first instalment is released at the earliest. A meeting of all State officials was convened in April, 2007 and the State Governments were requested to submit the proposal for the current financial year. Upto first week of August, 2007 a sum of Rs. 24.00 crores (33 per cent of BE) has been released to the States. The proposals from many States were not found to be complete and these States have been requested to submit the information so as to enable the processing division to consider their cases. (i) The States have been further advised to take effective measures to ensure following:— (a) Submission of proposals complete in all respects (b) Furnishing of all the certificates required (c) Timely submission of Utilization Certificates and Progress Reports. (ii) To ensure the timely release of funds to State Forest Department, the Ministry is also taking up the matter with concerned State Government officials. Comments The Committee while taking note of the reply feels that all out efforts should be made by the Ministry to ensure better coordination between the Centre and State to make the scheme successful. 8. Recommendation (Para 14.6) It has been observed that as per National Forest Commission Report there is need to fill the vacancies of front line staff in forest department including forest guards and foresters. Situation is alarming, around 40-50 per cent posts are lying vacant and average age of the staff is around 45 years. In view of the above, Committee is apprehensive that with so many post lying vacant and lack of any solid infrastructure, it is difficult to protect our national wealth of forests. On top of it, ever increasing hardships and lack of promotional and remunerative avenues kill their zeal. The Committee recommends initiation of concrete steps to tackle this problem. Action Taken by the Government As per the National Forest Commission Report there is need to fill the vacancies of front line staff in forest department including forest guards and foresters. The matter is related to State Governments/UTs. In this regard this Ministry has organized a conference in consultation with Forest Ministers, Forest Secretaries and PCCFs for filling of vacant post in the forest department. This Ministry has proposed a conference of Chief Ministers and Forest Ministers under the Chairmanship of Hon’ble Prime Minister in which filling up of vacancies of front line staff, particularly Forests and Wildlife Guards and Foresters in the Forest Departments is also included in the proposed agenda. 6

Comments The Committee notes the reply and would like to be apprised of the progress made in this regard. WILDLIFE PRESERVATION PROJECT TIGER 9. Recommendation (Para 15.3) The Committee has been given to understand that this year earmarking of outlay has been done for relocation of villages in project tiger areas. In view of the above, the Committee feels that relocation should be done only where it is necessary, as an isolated habitat for tigers could be an easy target for poachers. However, in many cases villagers are also found to be protecting poachers. Thus the pressing need is to sensitise villagers about the co-existence of man-animal and minimizing the ill-effects of human-animal conflict. Action Taken by the Government Village relocation would be undertaken only where necessary for providing inviolate space for tiger and other wild animals in core areas of tiger reserves, as recommended by the Tiger Task Force. Enabling provisions have been made in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, through amendment done in 2006 for providing buffer zones, where inclusive agenda to redress man-animal conflict and promote livelihood options for local people towards eliciting their support for wildlife protection and conservation. Comments The Committee while taking note of the reply feels that mere making enabling provisions in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, will not serve any purpose unless implemented in the right earnest the Committee therefore reiterates its recommendation that the Ministry should make efforts to sensitise villagers about the co-existence of man- animal in minimising the ill-effects of human-animals conflict and also involve these villagers more effectively in conservation of Wildlife. 10. Recommendation (Para 15.4) China being the largest market for tiger parts is considering lifting ban on the domestic trade of tiger body parts and would like to meet its need by tiger farms. The Committee would like to know the steps being initiated by the Ministry in view of the above as there is enough apprehensions that in such scenario, there would be an added incentives for poachers in India. Since, rearing tigers in farms is quite costly affair, it would push the price of its products and subsequently poaching, as compared to a slaughtered captive tiger, a consumer could get products from a poached tiger for one tenth of price. Action Taken by the Government During the 14th meeting of the Conference of Parties to CITES, which was held from 3rd to 15th June, 2007 at The Hague, India introduced a resolution along with China, Nepal and Russian Federation which was adopted. The said decision interalia has directions to Parties with operations breeding tigers on a commercial scale, for restricting such captive populations to a level supportive only to conserving wild tigers. Further, India made an intervention appealing to China to phase out tiger farming and eliminating stockpiles of Asian big cats body parts and derivatives. The importance of continuing the ban on trade of body parts of tigers was emphasized. India also has a protocol with China on tiger conservation, and official delegations from both the countries have met to discuss measures to strengthen tiger conservation. Comments The Committee feels that efforts should be continued towards ensuring the continuance of ban on trade of tiger body parts with the neighbouring countries. 7

11. Recommendation (Para 15.5) In recent times there are incidents of killings of Asiatic Lions in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat, which is the only habitat of Asiatic Lions in the world. Committee would like to know the immediate actions taken by the Ministry in this regard and what steps are being taken to prevent such killings in future. Committee feels that it must be the handiwork of poachers, as lions' claws and hide sell at a premium in the international market. It also reflects that Gir lions are equally vulnerable to poaching. Committee is concerned about the protection of wildlife not only in the protected areas, but also outside the protected areas, and it recommends strengthening of anti-poaching measures. Action Taken by the Government Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuaries (GNPWS) in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat form the nucleus of the last remaining habitat of the endangered free ranging Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica). A few recurring instances of the mortality of Lions, reportedly due to poaching, was reported from Gir during March and April 2007. In response to this, the actions taken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India is as below:— • On getting the information regarding the poaching of lions in Gir, the Ministry had asked Gujarat Government to beef up the protection machinery. • The Ministry also asked the Regional Offices, Wildlife Preservation to keep a vigil on all exit points to rule out the involvement of international elements in the matter. • Ministry of Environment and Forests constituted a Committee for the spot appraisal of the situation in Gir. The Committee had recommended several measures to strengthen the protection machinery in Gir and the surroundings to provide protection for bring down the wildlife crime. • The Hon’ble Minister of State for Environment and Forests, Government of India has also written to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat urging the State to take appropriate actions in this regard. • Further, under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme–Development of National Parks and Sanctuaries, the Central Government has been providing technical and financial assistance to State Government for the management of Gir National Park and Gir Sanctuary and their population of lions. An amount of Rs 68.65 lakh has been allotted to Gir during 2007-08 for various activities aimed at the conservation and management of Gir. Apart from this, the Central Government has also taken the following initiatives to check wildlife crime including poaching of lions. • The Central Government has enacted the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to deal with the issues of wildlife crime. • Lion has been included in Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 thus according them the highest degree of protection. • Stringent penalties are imposed on the offenders for the contravention of the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. • Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, with a network of five Regional and three Sub Regional Offices, has been set up to control wildlife crime. • India is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) that regulates international trade in wildlife and its derivatives. 8

• India has bilateral arrangements with China and Nepal on combating wildlife crime. Comments The Committee notes the reply and desires that strict implementation of all the anti- poaching legislations is ensured at ground level. NATIONAL AFFORESTATION AND ECO-DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME 12. Recommendation Para (16.6) The Committee appreciates Ministry’s efforts to achieve the target of 25 per cent of Forest Cover by 2007 and working towards establishing a high-tech modern nursery which may help the State departments in increasing the productivity of forests through modern nursery techniques of tissue culture, clone techniques and quality seeds. However, it feels that Ministry needs to be more focused in its budgetary planning under this programme, since an arbitrary cut at R.E. level could hamper the progressive growth of its performance oriented schemes such as National Afforestation Programme. Furthermore, Committee recommends that Ministry should formulate an effective strategy to create mass awareness about afforestation among poor people and tribal communities, who depend on forests in different ways as it may, in turn not only improve forests but would also provide better opportunity, empowerment and livelihood security to them. Action Taken by the Government The observation of the Department related Parliamentary Standing Committee contained in Para 16.6 of its One Hundred Seventy-fourth Report on Demands for Grants (2007-08) of the Ministry of Environment and Forests has been noted for compliance. The Ministry is striving to achieve the target for increase in Forest and Tree Cover, and to this end, it has considered to provide increased support to the Forest Development Agencies (FDAs) across the country for greater coverage under National Afforestation Programme (NAP) Scheme. In this respect, the Ministry took the initiative to amend the guidelines of the National Afforestation Programme to allow taking up of advance work for tree planting during the year 2006-07 (which was the last year of the Tenth Five Year Plan), so that 2007-08 does not become zero planting year. In all, 2,21,460 hectare of additional advance work targets were approved during 2006-07 for this purpose in 411 FDA in 24 States at a total cost of Rs.l34.98 crores, out of which Rs.72.59 crores was released during 2006-07. With regard to the budget utilization of allocation during 2007-08 which stands at Rs.322.57 crores after re-appropriation under the National Afforestation Scheme, expeditious measures are taken for timely release of fund to the Forest Development Agencies. It is expected that not only the full allocation would be utilized but additional allocation will be sought at the RE stage (2007-08) to meet the demand of the FDAs. With regard to the Committee’s recommendation regarding mass awareness about afforestation, this Ministry had undertaken various measures like, (a) organization of Vriksha Melas (Tree Fairs) in the rural weekly markets through the Forest Development Agencies, (b) advertisement about tree planting on the outer panels of selected local trains running in rural areas, (c) awareness generation through Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (Ministry of Sports) and Song and Drama Division (Ministry of lnformation and Broadcasting) to various rural groups including farmers in the rural areas etc. by organizing street plays etc. (d) dissemination of pamphlets bearing information about species of plants, planting technology etc. to various interest groups in the rural areas through Direct Post, etc. It is planned to continue with similar activities during 2007-08 also subject to availability of funds and proper utilization of previous grants by the concerned agencies. Comments The Committee notes the reply and is of view that mass awareness measures about 9 afforestation should not only be continued but further intensified in rural and tribal areas of the country. ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXTENSION 13. Recommendation Para (17.3) The need to address environmental issues has never been greater as large-scale industrialisation and ever increasing population has compelled it to be addressed at larger perspective. The Committee is aware of the fact that Ministry has been doing commendable job in creating environmental awareness at formal education system. However, it is of the view that to make this awareness reach young individuals, especially the pre-teen age-group, it has to organize tailor maid seminars, work shops to create awareness and knowledge about environment to these impressionable minds. And at higher level the overall aim of conducting environmental awareness training programmes should be with the objective of acquiring and appropriate level of knowledge and understanding of the key concepts involved in environmental awareness. Action Taken by the Government In order to create mass environment awareness, Seminar, Workshop, training etc. have been major component of the Environment Education and Training programme for enhancing the understanding of people at all levels about relationship between human beings and Environment and to develop capabilities/skills to improve and protect the environment. Major initiatives through there components are elaborated as follows: (i) Seminars/Symposia/Workshops – This programme provides a platform to scientists/ environmentalists/University professionals/ technocrats, etc, to share their knowledge on various subjects related to environment. The Ministry provides financial assistance to the Universities/other institutions/NGOs to organise the events (seminars/symposia/workshops/conferences) and to publish the proceedings. The scheme facilitates the transfer of technical know-how to different people including local population. 56 proposals were supported during 2006-07 under this programme. (ii) National Environment Awareness Campaign – The NEAC was launched in mid 1986 with the objective of creating environmental awareness at the national level. In this campaign, nominal financial assistance is provided to NGOs, schools, colleges, universities, research- institutions, women and youth organisations, army units, Government departments etc. from all over the country for organising conducting awareness raising activities. The activities could be seminars, workshops, training programmes, camps, padyatras, rallies, public meetings, exhibitions, essay/ debate/painting/poster competitions, folk dances and songs, street theatre, puppet shows, preparation and distribution of environmental education resource materials etc., followed by action like plantation of trees, management of household waste etc. Diverse target groups encompassing students, youths, teachers, tribal, farmers, other. rural population, professionals and the general public are covered under NEAC. The programme is implemented through designated Regional Resource Agencies (RRAs) appointed for specific States/Regions of the country. The number of organisations supported under NEAC has steadily increased from about 115 in 1986 to 9784 in 2006-07. (iii) Mass Awareness through Media – The broad objectives of the programme is to bring about an attitudinal and behavioural change amongst people by spreading awareness about environmental issues and projecting in a positive manner Government’s environmental policies and regulations, so that people, specially the youth, can adopt sustainable life styles and voluntarily follow environmental regulations. These objectives are sought to be achieved through the electronic and print media, the film and theatre media, etc. The Ministry has also forwarded a ‘‘Media Action Plan’’ in this year. The following activities have been taken during the year 2006-07: • A half-hour weekly Environmental Television Magazine called ‘‘Bhoomi’’ was being telecast on Doordarshan National Channel. 10

• A fifteen minutes weekly Environmental Television Magazine called ‘‘Sarokar’’ was being telecast on Rajasthan DD-l. • An awareness campaign on selected environment themes like water conservation, conservation of wetlands, man-animal conflict and illegal trade in wildlife, etc. through private TV channels. • Conceived in 2002 by CMS, CMS VATAVARAN is India’s one and only biennially competitive and travelling Environment and Wildlife film festival, has grown in prestige, stature, reach, association and patronage. • Twelve cities, 36 days, 350 films screenings, 11 workshops/symposiums/panel discussions/open forums, 13 thematic exhibitions, more than 220 news items in national and regional newspapers, and participation of around 40,000 people in CMS VATAVARAN 2006.. The figures are a simple statistical resemblance of the movement called CMS VATAVARAN. • In 2006, CMS VATAVARAN Travelling Film Festival was held in TWELVE CITIES. • The festival in Seven Cities – Chandigarh, Srinagar, Bangalore, Chennai, Guwahati, Hyderabad and Ranchi was organized by CMS with the partial support of Ministry of Environment and Forests, Govt. of India. • The festival was also held in Kolkata, Pune and Sirmour in India and two International Cities namely Sao Paulo, Brazil and Abu Dhabi. For the first time CMS VATAVARAN went overseas with Abu Dhabi CMS VATAVARAN – Indian Environment and Wildlife Film Festival in collaboration with Embassy of India, Abu Dhabi. The three-day festival offered a unique opportunity to view an amazing array of CMS VATAVARAN films on topical Indian environment and wildlife issues with global perspective. A ward winning CMS VATAVARAN Films also travelled to Sao Paulo, Brazil, in November as part of the 5th Ecocine - International Environmental Film and Video Festival. • To make use of the medium of documentary films for environmental awareness, an MoU has been signed with Public Service Broadcasting Trust (PSBT) for the production of 13 films every year for three years (total 39 films) on environmental issues and their telecast on Doordarshan. During this year 13 documentary films has been telecast. • Publishing the bi-monthly magazine Geography and You/Bhugol And Aap, both in English and Hindi. • An awareness campaign on Conservation of Estuarine Crocodile for a month on NGC and Zee News. • Financial support to TERI for production and successful telecast of five Terra-view films on Doordarshan. An ‘‘Advisory Committee of Experts on Media matters’’ has been constituted under the Chairmanship of Secretary (E&F) to guide it in all media related activities. (iv) Other Awareness Programmes – Even though financial assistance is provided for awareness programmes under the NEAC, which are usually held within a specific time-frame and are short- term projects restricted to a specific area, other proposals for creating awareness among diverse target groups were also received throughout the year from various NGOs and other agencies. These are considered on merit as and when received and supported. Few examples of these are: • An international written Environment Quiz programme known as Green Olympiad followed by a televised Quiz programme TERRA-QUIZ conducted by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). 11

• Written and televised environmental quiz programmes in other regional languages like Gujarati have also started. • Awareness activities/events by NGOs, academic institutions etc. on the occasion of special Environment day like Earth Day etc. • Organisation of an annual Vacation Programme on Environmental Resources for high school level students namely ‘‘Vacation Programme on Natural Resources - Building a Broader Constituency of Support for Conservation’’. • As in previous years, the international written Environment Quiz programme known as ‘‘Green Olympiad’’ was held during the year. The programme has gained steady popularity over the years and in 2006-07, more than 60000 students from India, UAE, Singapore, Nepal and Bhutan participated in this competition. The programme is in Hindi also. The programme was followed by a televised Quiz Programme ‘‘TERRA-QUIZ’’ wherein top 32 teams of Green Olympiad participated. Other quiz programmes in regional.Ianguages were also supported. • An annual Vacation Programme on Environmental Resources for high school level students namely ‘‘Vacation Programme on Natural Resources - Building a Broader Constituency of Support for Conservation’’ was supported. • Observance of Earth Day : Earth Day is an annual observance held on April 22 every year to increase public awareness on the environment. During the year, a host of activities were supported on and before Earth Day to use the occasion to involve people in making a difference towards a healthy, prosperous and sustainable future. The activities ranged from competitions (essay, painting, poster making, etc.) to Rallies, Runs and formation of human chain. Streets plays were also organised to spread the message of environment conservation. Shramdan to cleanse the ‘‘Sanjay Lake’’ in Delhi was also supported. (v) Grants-in-aid to Professional Societies – The programme was launched during the Seventh Plan period with the underlying objective to encourage the expertise available with the professional societies and institutions and to help augment the capabilities in the identified areas by developing programmes and activities in the areas of environmental education, ecology and wildlife. The major objective of the scheme was to provide one time grant to professional societies and institutions to develop their activities and projects in the field of environment with an ultimate objective of enhancing their capabilities in the various activities relating to protection of environment and conservation of natural resources. The grant is not available for construction, office equipment, goods and services which are not related or do not facilitate environment education. The grant under the programme is also not given for research, collection and compilation of data/information or to any individual/business houses. Comments The Committee notes the reply and desired that the impact of these measures be closely monitored. CONSERVATION PROGRAMME 14. Recommendation (Para (18.4) The Committee notes with satisfaction that the Ministry has done commendable job in terms of increasing the numbers of wetlands and mangrove sites. It observes that mangroves and coral reefs. are important coastal environmental resources, they provide habitats for marine species, protection from extreme weather events and a resource base for a sustainable tourism. The 12

Committee would like to recommend that Ministry must make sure that these environmental resources should be kept secure from human settlements, industrial setups and exploitation. Action Taken by the Government The Ministry of Environment and Forests is at the forefront in regard to Mangroves and Coral Reefs and accords high priority to their conservation and management. The Coastal Regulation Zone Notification (1991) under the Environmental Protection Act (1986) recognizes the Mangroves and Coral Reefs areas as ecologically sensitive and categorizes them as CRZ-I (i) which implies that these areas are afforded protection of the highest order. Under the promotional measures, the Government has identified 38 Mangrove and 4 Coral Reef areas on a country-wide basis for intensive conservation and management. The National Policy, 2006 recognizes that Mangroves and Coral Reefs are an important coastal environmental resource. The Ministry feels encouraged by the commendation of the Committee and will make every effort, as ever and before, for conservation and management of Mangroves and Coral Reefs. Comments The Committee while taking note of the reply is of the view that conservation and management of Mangroves and Coral Reefs should continued to be the thrust area of the Ministry. NATIONAL RIVER CONSERVATION PLAN 15. Recommendation (Para 19.3) The Committee has been given to understand that lowering of budgetary allocation in National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) is due to progressive completion of works in some States. The Committee would like the Ministry to provide it with details of such works. In addition, Committee has observed that construction of low cost sanitation toilets to prevent open defecation on river-banks is one of the important objects under this programme. However, in case of Yamuna, the Committee expresses grave concern as improvement of water quality remains below the acceptable norms as waste discharge and open defecation is still one of the common sights around its bank even in Delhi. Financial constraint has never been a problem with cleaning of Yamuna, funds have been pouring from nation as well as other global banking institutions. If this is the state of highly propagated, immensely funded river, then one can imagine the plight of other major rivers in other States of India. Time and again, Committee is pressing for proper coordination and management between Centre and State Governments, otherwise, money will keep going down the drain. The Committee recommends that to make this project result oriented, it is high time the Ministry take punitive actions against defaulters/officials found lacking in terms of deliverance. Action Taken by the Government The State-wise details of the works completed under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) during the last three financial years are given in the Annexure. It may be observed that a total of 183 schemes of pollution abatement have been completed in different States during the last three years. Among the States where major works of Interception and Diversion of Sewage (I&D) and installation of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) were completed during these years are Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Punjab resulting in creation of additional sewage treatment capacity of 1011 million litre per day (mId) in all the States combined under NRCP during three years. Progressive completion of these works during the last three years has resulted in reduction in the amount required for completion of the ongoing works. Due to these reasons, the budget outlay sought for 2007-08 was less than those of previous years. 13

With respect to the Low Cost Sanitation (LCS) works, it is to mention that great emphasis is given for Construction of Community Toilet Complexes (CTCs) under the NRCP, with a total of 138 schemes of LCS completed out of the sanctioned schemes of 158 so far. Under the Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) Phase-I, implemented during the period 1993 to 2003, a total of 30 LCS schemes were completed under this Plan with 2 in Delhi (comprising of 960 CTCs), 16 in Uttar Pradesh and 12 in Haryana. However, the problem observed is that the State Governments do not have adequate resources to undertake proper Operation and Maintenance (O&M) of assets created under the NRCP. This leads to under utilization of the assets created and reflects poorly on the impact of works done. The State Governments are encouraged to suggest and follow innovative means to generate the revenue required for Operation and Maintenance of assets. As regards the river Yamuna, the Government of India has undertaken Yamuna Action Plan (YAP) for abatement of pollution of river Yamuna with the assistance from Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC), Government of Japan in a phased manner. YAP Phase-I was launched in 1993 and completed in 2003. A total of 269 pollution abatement works pertaining to interception and diversion of sewage, installation of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), Low Cost Sanitation, Crematoria, River Front Development, Public Participation and Awareness etc. were taken up in YAP, Phase-I in 21 towns of the three States of U.P., Haryana and Delhi. A total of 38 STPs having a treatment capacity of 753.25 million litres per day (mld) have been created under this phase. The project was completed within the approved cost. The second phase of YAP was started in December 2004 with the completion period of five years. This phase-II was formulated to take up other pollution abatement works of the river Yamuna, as prioritized by the States and includes, (i) installation/rehabilitation of STPs, rehabilitation/replacement of trunk sewers in Delhi, (ii) installation of STPs, laying of sewer lines and rising mains in Agra, Uttar Pradesh and, (iii) laying of sewer lines in six towns of Haryana. In addition to this, the Government of Delhi is also undertaking large scale sewerage and non sewerage works for preventing the pollution under the river Yamuna. The quality of water in Yamuna River has not shown the desired improvement, particularly in Delhi, due to enormous increase in pollution load and lack of fresh water in the river during lean period. Implementation of the river pollution abatement works is an ongoing and continuous activity based upon the estimated pollution loads. Due to ever-increasing population, leading to increased pollution load, and gap in the availability of Plan Outlay, there is persistent divergence between the pollution load tackled and the actual pollution load. A proper mechanism already exists for ensuring coordination and management between the Centre and the State Governments for monitoring the works under the Plan. In order to further strengthen this mechanism, recently a High Powered Committee has been constituted for ensuring proper co-ordination between different agencies in order to develop the river Yamuna in Delhi. The constitution of the Committee is as under: • Lieutenant Governor, Delhi — Chairman • Chief Minister, Delhi — Vice Chairman • Secretary, Ministry of Urban Development — Member • Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forests — Member • Chief Secretary, Government of NCT of Delhi — Member • Principal Secretary, Urban Development — Member Government of NCT of Delhi. • Chief Executive Officer, Delhi Jal Board — Member • Vice Chairman, Delhi Development Authority — Member 14

The terms of reference of the Committee include commissioning of studies on different aspects of the development of the river, development of a policy frame work and preparation of an integrated plan addressing issues of both quantity in terms of river flow and quality of Yamuna river, development of an operation plan for implementation of the river action programme, ways to effect inter-sectoral co-ordination and suggestion of the design for a statutory framework.

State-wise completed schemes under National river Conservation Plan during last Three Financial Years

Sl. No. States Completed Schemes Sanctioned Number Cost (lakh) 1 Andhra Pradesh 320.29 6 2 Jharkhand 31.57 3 3 Gujarat 5273.29 4 4 Karnataka 558.48 7 5 Maharashtra 3119.49 14 6 Madhya Pradesh 2840.99 14 7 Orissa 283.08 6 8 Punjab 7645.09 14 9 Rajasthan 10.75 3 10 Tamil Nadu 46165.89 25 11 Goa 754.60 1 12 Delhi 0.00 0 13 Uttar Pradesh 227.04 6 14 Haryana 1345.90 12 15 Bihar 37.43 2 16 West Bengal 11266.80 53 17 Uttaranchal 511.25 13 18 Kerala 0.00 0 19 Sikkim 0.00 0 20 Nagaland 0.00 0

TOTAL: 80391.94 183

Comments The Committee notes the reply and would like to reiterate its recommendation that proper coordination among various agencies involved in the implementation of the National River Conservation Plan is of utmost importance for achieving desired objectives which must be maintained. 15

16. Recommendation (Para 19.4) The Ganga Action Plan (GAP) is a scheme that was initiated by the Ministry of Environment and Forests to clean critical areas of the Ganga downstream of Haridwar and to bring the water back to bathing level, since its initiation crores have been spent on the action plan but there has not been much improvement in water quality. Experts say the practice of dumping untreated sewage from cities on the banks of the Ganga and dead bodies and carcasses in the river are some of the causes of high pollution levels and the practice is still prevalent. The Committee feels that the project suffered due to lack of suitable system in place to monitor the implementation and plug the loopholes in the execution of the project. Action Taken by the Government The Government of India initiated the river conservation efforts by launching the Ganga Action Plan (GAP) Phase-I in the year 1985, taking up the pollution abatement works in the identified polluted stretches of the river. This Phase was declared completed in March, 2000 with the creation of sewage treatment capacity of 869 million litres per day (mld). Since GAP Phase-I did not cover the pollution load of Ganga fully, GAP Phase-II including the tributaries of Ganga namely, Yamuna, Gomti, Damodar and Mahananda, was approved in stages from 1993 onwards. A total of sewage treatment capacity of 1747 mld has been created for Ganga and its tributaries, out of which 869 mld is for Ganga. Conservation of rivers is a dynamic activity with the ever-increasing pollution load due to increase in population. It requires involvement of all the stakeholders in the project, viz., Central Government, State Government, Local Bodies, Implementing Agencies, NGOs, general public, users, etc. Water being a State subject, it is the responsibility of State Governments to create proper sewerage infrastructure to prevent pollution from entering the rivers. Central Government only supplements the efforts of the State Governments by providing one time grant for capital works for identified polluted stretches. With the pollution abatement works completed so far in both the phases under GAP, the water quality of the river Ganga has shown improvement at major locations over its pre-GAP quality as per the water quality monitoring undertaken by independent reputed institutions of the country. A statement indicating the improvement in the water quality of the river between the years 1986 and 2006 is given below.—

Water quality data for river Ganga

(Summer Average i.e. March-June) Sl. No. Station/Location Dissolved Oxygen [DO] Biochemical Oxygen (mg/l) Demand [BOD] (mg/l) 1986 2006 1986 2006 12 3 45 6 UTTARAKHAND 1. Rishikesh 8.1 8.30 1.7 1.00 2. Hardwar D/S 8.1 8.10 1.8 1.30 UTTAR PRADESH 3. Garhmukteshwar 7.8 7.70 2.2 2.10 4. Kannauj U/S 7.2 7.35 5.5 1.11 16

12 3 45 6

5. Kannauj D/S NA 6.45 NA 4.20 6. Kanpur U/S 7.2 6.20 7.2 6.80 7. Kanpur D/S 6.7 3.90 8.6 6.80 8. Allahabad U/S 6.4 7.10 11.4 4.90 9. Allahabad D/S 6.6 8.50 15.5 3.20 10. Varanasi U/S 5.6 8.70 10.1 2.10 11. Varanasi D/S 5.9 8.65 10.6 2.25 BIHAR 12. Patna U/S 8.4 7.40 2.0 2.05 13. Patna D/S 8.1 8.10 2.2 2.30 14. Rajmahal 7.8 7.20 1.8 1.95 WEST BENGAL 15. Palta NA 6.96 NA 2.58 16. Uluberia NA 6.46 NA 2.64 Bathing Water Quality Criteria: DO equal to or more than 5.0 mg/l BOD equal to or less than 3.0 mg/l

Dumping of dead bodies/carcasses in rivers: One of the pollution abatement measures taken up under the National River Conservation Plan include setting up of Electric and/or Improved Wood-based Crematoria to conserve the use of wood and help in ensuring proper cremation of bodies brought to the burning ghat. Throwing of dead bodies in rivers is a vexatious issue and the State Governments have been fully sensitized in this regard and District Administrations convene meetings and urge all concerned that dead bodies should not be buried near the riverbed or thrown in the river. All organizations/ public are being requested by the local administrations in the banks of river Ganga to cremate dead bodies so that the environment is not polluted. The different local agencies/bodies are being persuaded to create public awareness in this regard. With regard to utilization of electric crematoria (EC) and improved wood crematoria (IWC) which has been set up under the Ganga Action Plan, meetings are regularly conducted with the local public, religious leaders, community leaders to improve utilization of these modern crematoria. The local bodies have been encouraged to set up improved wood crematoria along the banks of the river to prevent dumping of dead bodies into the river. Under GAP-I, in six towns of Bihar, 9 Electric Crematoria were installed. In UP, 4 crematoria were installed under GAP-I. In West Bengal, under GAP-I, 18 crematoria have been constructed and commissioned and under GAP-II, 7 crematoria have so far been completed and commissioned. A number of Public participation and public awareness programmes have been undertaken in different towns under Ganga Action Plan in the form of exhibition/workshops, street plays, rallies/padayatras by local people, school based programmes, and shramdan programmes by 17 cleaning, sweeping the banks of river Ganga. Taking into consideration the erratic Power supply in UP and Bihar, and general reluctance to accept this type of crematorium, it has been decided to promote improved wood based crematoria from GAP-II onwards. Monitoring of Implementation : A multi-layer monitoring mechanism exists at the Central, State and Implementing Agency level for monitoring the implementation of the projects. At the apex level, major policy directions to implement the pollution abatement works are provided by the National River Conservation Authority (NRCA) under the Chairmanship of the Hon'ble Prime Minister. The schemes under the NRCP and the NLCP are implemented through Implementing Agencies (IAs), nominated for the purpose by the respective State/Union Territory Governments. The monitoring system to implement the approved schemes under NRCP is being strengthened and in this regard, the major steps taken are as under:— • Conducting of review meetings with the individual State Governments quarterly in addition to the monitoring mechanism at Central and State level for ensuring timely completion of works. • Release of funds to the State Implementing Agencies directly by the Central Government instead of through State Governments to avoid time delays. • Regular monitoring of water quality status in important polluted stretches of river Ganga to check the efficacy of the implemented schemes. • Performance monitoring of STPs already commissioned by independent reputed institutions on monthly/bi-monthly basis to ensure their working status. Comments The Committee notes the reply and expresses its dissatisfaction over the fact that water quality of the River Ganga has not improve despite all the efforts made hitherto by the Ministry. PREVENTION OF AIR AND WATER POLLUTION 17. Recommendation (Para 20.2) The Committee opines that apart from providing financial assistance to the State Governments for Common Effluent Treatment Plants for modernization and capacity expansion, the Ministry through its nodal agency i.e. Central Pollution Control Board should make sure that requisite technical assistance may also be provided to the State Governments and Union Territories. Furthermore, it recommends that Ministry should seriously look into the matter in the case of polluting industries, which discharge their effluents into river and lakes. There should be imposition of heavy penalties and closure notices to such Industrial setups, if they fail to install the requisite effluent treatment plants within a time frame. Action Taken by the Government The concept of the Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETP) arose in order to make a co-operative movement for pollution control. The main objective of the CETPs is to reduce the treatment cost to be borne by an individual member unit to a minimum while protecting the water environment to a maximum. Wastewater of CETPs was envisaged to treat the effluent emanating from the clusters of compatible small-scale industries. A Centrally Sponsored Scheme has been undertaken by the Government for enabling the Small Scale Industries (SSI) to set up new and upgrade the existing Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETP) in the country. A scheme for financial assistance for the CETPs has been formulated as follows:— State Subsidy — 25% of the total project cost 18

Matching Central Subsidy — 25% of the total project cost Entrepreneurs contribution — 20% of the total project cost Loan from financial institutions — 30% of the total project cost (IDBI, ICCI or any other nationalized Banks, State Industrial Financial Corporation etc.) CPCB has undertaken a study through National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) entitled ‘Feasibility Studies on Wastewater Management for Textile Sector in Tirupur and Tannery and Textile Sector in Erode, Tamil Nadu’ on performance evaluation of Reverse Osmosis Technology and Nano Filtration, which can help in achieving standards of TDS. For prevention of population in waterbodies i.e. Rivers and Lakes, the polluting industrial units located along the Rivers and Lakes are monitored regularly by the concerned State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) for setting up of Pollution control devices and appropriate actions are taken against the defaulting units to ensure compliance. The overall criteria for selection of industries are the pollution potential (type as well as load) in the sense of the environmental impact of the discharges, emissions and disposal of hazardous wastes. The inspections of the following types of industries are undertaken by CPCB:— • Seventeen Categories of polluting Industries, • Polluting Industries located along the Rivers and Lakes. • Industries located in the Twenty four identified problem areas, and • Hazardous Waste reprocessing industries. The steps taken against pollution causing industries include: (i) Enforcement of prescribed environmental standards; (ii) Regular monitoring for compliance of prescribed environmental norms; (iii) Issuance of notices/directions to defaulting units for installation of pollution control devices under the provisions of various Pollution Control Acts; and (iv) Implementation on the Charter on Corporate Responsibility for Environmental Protection for 17 Categories of polluting industries. Total of 1204 grossly polluting industries (discharging 100 Kg/D BOD) have been identified as on December, 2006, out of which 775 industries have installed Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) and are functioning satisfactorily, 314 industries have been closed and 115 are defaulting and facing legal action. Comments The Committee is of the view that strict vigilance on the part of the Ministry is required to check the problem of water pollution by the various industries and simultaneously speedy and stringent penal action should also be taken against the industries that do not comply with the rules. NATIONAL LAKE CONSERVATION PLAN 18. Recommendation (Para 21.3) The Committee understands that it is slow poisoning of the water that is daily killing a part of the Dal Lake, which has been the major attraction in Kashmir Valley. Most of the pollutants are 19 above the permissible limit as prescribed by the Water Act (Prevention and Control of Pollution) and also by the Central Board for Control of Pollution (CPCB). Besides, the known factors like human settlements, hotels, floating gardens and even dhobi ghats on the periphery, are negatively contributing to the lake’s slow death. It has also been observed that to certain extent source of phosphates and nitrates, both fertilizers promote eutrophication in the lake water, which may be attributed to the usage of fertilizers by the farmers. Sewage discharge from surrounding communities around the lake and its tributaries is also a major reason for pollution in Dal Lake. The Committee is, therefore, deeply perturbed to note the deteriorating water quality of the Dal Lake. Action Taken by the Government Dal-Nagin Lake, like all other inland water bodies in the country, is beset with problems arising from both natural and anthropogenic causes. The lake is unique in the sense that this probably is the only lake where a large number of people live inside the lake carrying out cultivation in water and land, fishing and discharging their wastes into the water body. The project of ‘‘Conservation and Management Plan for Dal-Nagin Lake in Srinagar’’ has already been sanctioned by Government of India in September, 2005 under the National Lake Conservation Plan for Rs. 298.76 crore, which inter-alia also includes various measures for reduction of nutrients (pollutants) to improve the lake eco-system. The project is scheduled for completion by March, 2010. Implementation of works sanctioned under the project has since been taken up by the J&K Lakes and Waterways Development Authority, the State implementing agency for the project, and an expenditure of Rs. 81.70 crore has been incurred till end of August, 2007. For control of nutrient ingress into the lake (responsible for deterioration of lake water quality), various actions are being taken up under the project. (A) Sewerage and Sewage Treatment works and Solid Waste Management Entry of untreated sewage and solid waste from the peripheral areas and hamlets/ houseboats within the lake has been reckoned as the main factor for eco-degradation of Dal-Nagin Lake. To address this issue, following achievements have been made till date by the J&K Lakes and Waterways Development Authority, (i) Main sewers Out of 27,851 metres of main sewers envisaged to be laid, 17644 metres of sewers have been laid to carry the sewage to the STPs in respective zones. (ii) Remodeling of drains 19,804 metres length of drains have been remodeled out of a total length of 20000 metres envisaged under the project. (iii) Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) Out of 6 STPs (having a total treatment capacity of 36.7 mld) envisaged to be constructed under the project, 3 STPs based on Fluidized Aerobic Bed (FAB) technology and having a treatment capacity of 15.2 mld have been commissioned and are functional. The 3 STPs constructed at Hazratbal (7.5 mld capacity), Habak (3.2 mld capacity) and Laam (4.5 mld capacity) can treat around 41 per cent of the total sewage generated along the lake periphery that was flowing directly into the lake. (iv) Regarding the hamlets within the lake areas and the habitations not falling in the command area of the STPs, LCS (low cost sanitation) measures are being resorted to reduce the lake pollution. 20

(v) Solid Waste Management for the houseboats and hamlets within the lake, including areas in the immediate periphery of the lake, is being conducted through various NGOs where-under about 7,500 structures are being serviced on a day-to-day basis, as a result of which about 9125 cu.m. of solid waste is being managed annually in collaboration with Srinagar Municipal Corporation. (B) Catchment Management Silt coming from the catchment areas through the main feeding source that would contribute to shallowness of the lake and particulate nutrient build-up is being arrested in the Telbal Nala Settling Basin (which has been constructed for this purpose) before entering the lake. The gravity of sediment yield is also declining as anti-erosion measures in the catchment area of the lake have been initiated. (C) Weed Management Selective de-weeding is being done for maintaining water quality and ecology of the lake. (D) Dredging Dredging of shallow areas of the lake is being undertaken to ensure removal of nutrients from the sediment pool. This has resulted in lake water expanse of about 1 sq.m along the northern shore of the lake having an average depth of about 2.5 m. (E) Water Circulation An additional outflow arrangement for the lake via Brari Numbal Lagoon has been constructed under the project, which improves the lake water circulation and helps to flush the lake back waters and periphery lake channels. Comments The Committee notes the reply and desires that the Ministry should ensure that the water quality of the Dal-Nagin lake improves with the help of various measures undertaken in this regard. 19. Recommendation Para (21.4) The Committee is of the strong view that conservation of Dal Lake, which is a lake of national importance, is an urgent issue. It is a God given ornament of Kashmir Valley and hence crucial in terms of not only ecology but also from the point of augmenting economic well being of its people and ensuring peace in the valley. It recommends that provision of proper sewage facilities will lead to the reduction of the organic loading in the lake to great extent. The Committee therefore recommends that it is necessary to look into the possibilities such as a common sewerage system for a cluster of houseboats, sanitary systems in individual units and devices for removal of the wastes in containers. Action Taken by the Government The J&K Lakes and Waterways Development Authority have informed that a comprehensive scheme for houseboat sanitation has been formulated for implementation. (i) The houseboats located in the Nagin Basin have been realigned along its eastern and western shore. The sewer line for connecting houseboats on eastern shore has been laid through which sewage of the houseboats shall be pumped to the STP located at Hazratbal. The sewage from houseboats on western side of Nagin Lake shall be connected to sewer for carrying the same to the STP proposed to be constructed at Nala Amir Khan. 21

(ii) The houseboats located in the Nehru Park Basin of Dal Lake shall be provided with floating septic tanks and Vacussun sewer system. The pre-requisite of this scheme requires relocation and realignment of houseboats in the lake, the proposals of which have been finalized and the dredging of the area on the western side of the lake near Kohnakhun for providing mooning sites for these houseboats has been undertaken. 32 houseboats have so far been relocated in the area carved out. Comments The Committee while taking note of the reply is of the view that the comprehensive sewage and sanitation system formulated should be put in place expeditiously and the results monitored. 20. Recommendation (Para 21.5) The Committee in its earlier report on action taken by the Ministry of Environment and Forests on the recommendations contained in report of the Committee on ‘Conservation and Environmental Management Plan for Dal-Nagin Lake’ had further recommended the Ministry to take initiatives to import Rota Loo, lightweight portable toilet aided by hundred per cent biodegradable toilet bag which is compostable and is not only environmental friendly but also user friendly. The Committee, therefore, again recommends for Rota Loo toilets, which could also be used on the houseboats in Dal Lake. It would like the Ministry to furnish details of actions taken in this context, as the aerobic breakdown of human wastes in a biodrum is the most advisable technique for preventing the inflow of human wastes into the lake eco-system. Action Taken by the Government The J&K Lakes and Waterways Development Authority have informed that the proposal of using ‘‘Rota Loo’’ toilets as well as other alternatives like ‘‘Envirolet’’ biolet units for houseboats has already been considered and evaluated by them. However, both these options were not recommended for the following reasons: (a) Both these units are more specifically designed for situations where water is scarce but power is abundant. The conditions in case of Dal Lake were found to be opposite. (b) Waste in such units is composted in pits, which is neither possible nor desirable in the lake. (c) The Rota Loo toilets are to be operated manually, which is not possible in houseboat condition. (d) The costs involved in both types are prohibitive. A meeting of Board of Directors of the J&K Lakes and Waterways Development Authority on this matter was held on 24.9.2005, wherein it was decided to adopt ‘Floating Septic Tanks’ with Vacussun sewer system for discharging the liquid waste of houseboats into the terminal shore sump-cum-pump station for ultimate treatment in the existing/proposed STPs for scientific houseboat sanitation. The J&K Lakes and Waterways Development Authority have informed that since the Parliamentary Committee has recommended re-examining the utility of ‘‘Rota Loo’’ toilets in the houseboats, they will re-examine the matter. Comments The Committee notes the reply and desires that an effective method for disposal of wastes from the Houseboats in the Dal Lake is put in place within a fixed time schedule. The Committee would like to be apprised of the steps being taken towards this. 22

GREGARIOUS FLOWERING OF MULl BAMBOOS 21. Recommendation (Para 23.3) The Committee appreciates the efforts initiated by the Ministry to tap the ecological, social and economic problems likely to arise due to gregarious flowering of muli bamboos. It recommends that Ministry must keep up its efforts to ensure that the resources and huge amount of funds involved in this project are managed properly and effectively. Action Taken by the Government To tackle the ecological, social and economic problems likely to arise due to gregarious flowering of Bamboo, the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), GoI is implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS), under which following steps have been taken:— (i) The Comprehensive Action Plan was approved on July 20, 2005. The Scheme has been finally approved on March 30, 2006 by the Planning Commission and the Ministry of Finance for implementation from 2005-06 to 2008-09. (ii) Under this CSS, seven NE States and ICFRE are being financially supported as per the approved Action Plan. The main activities for which the funds will be utilized are: • Improvement of link roads for bamboo extraction/regeneration; • Creation of transit depots/collection centres; • Purchase of vehicles for monitoring and staff mobility; • Mechanized ropeways to facilitate extraction of bamboo; • Regeneration activities; • Fire-control measures; • Rodent control; • Preventive health measures; • Utilizing bamboo for bio-energy by gasification; and • Disposal of unutilized bamboo by burning. (iii) The seven States are: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tipura. (iv) The total expected requirement of fund for implementation of the Action Plan has been estimated as Rs 366.50 crores, out of which the MoEF, is supplementing the efforts of the State Governments and ICFRE, concerned through by an estimated budget of Rs. 85.00 crores for total project period. (v) During Financial Year (FY) 2005-06, an amount of Rs 17.82 crores has been released to different NE States and ICFRE to combat the problems. In the FY 2006-07, the total amount released is Rs 25.00 crores and for the current FY, the estimated budget to be released is Rs 27.00 crores out of which Rs. 6.28 crores has been released so far to the implementing States. (vi) A Central Monitoring Committee (CMC) under the chairmanship of Director General of Forests and Special Secretary (DGF&SS), MoEF, Government of India has been constituted on August 31, 2004, which includes PCCFs/Forest Secretaries of the State Governments, representatives from Ministry of Agriculture, DONER, National Mission on Bamboo Application (NMBA), North-Eastern Council (NEC) and Planning Commission. 23

(a) This Committee held bimonthly meeting to review the progress of the scheme. So far CMC has held six CMC meetings; the next one is scheduled to be held on September 18, 2007 at Guwahati, Assam. (vii) The major consumer of bamboo produce is HPC. No States report to export of bamboos to Bangladesh except Tripura. Bamboo produce is being properly utilized for Paper and Pulp Industry, Handicrafts, Construction/Structural purposes, Bio-energy, Incense stick, Umbrella handle etc. (viii) The National Mission on Bamboo Applications (NMBA), Ministry of Science and Technology is helping the implementing States in providing technical know-how and financial assistance to the local entrepreneurs for setting up Gasifiers, activated charcoal units, stick making units providing quality nursery stocks for regeneration. (ix) MoEF decided to give dispensation from felling restrictions to Muli Bamboos till gregarious flowering is over. The States can do harvesting without approved working plans/schemes by developing some mechanism at the State level to ensure proper harvesting and utilization. (a) The export restrictions on muli bamboos have been lifted till March, 2008. Comments Committee acknowledges the various efforts undertaken by the Ministry to minimize the problems likely to arise due to flowering of the muli bamboos and hopes that these efforts would bear fruit. 22. Recommendation (Para 24) After examining the various aspects of Demand for Grants of the Ministry of Environment and Forests, the Committee observed that the budget allocation for the year 2007-08 has not been made with the realistic perception with the result that the Ministry would not be in a position to complete its ongoing schemes/programmes with such allocations. The Committee also felt that the major activities/programmes like national afforestation programme, the functioning of Botanical Survey of India/Zoological Survey of India, filling up of vacant posts in various grades in various organizations under the purview of the Ministry and creation of scientists pool etc. would suffer because of the tight budgetary provisions. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Ministry should seek for more allocations at R.E stage for various ongoing projects/programmes so that the Ministry can deliver better environment inputs which the country needs in the wake of prevailing environmental degradation. Action Taken by the Government The low budgetary allocations in 2007-08 Budget of the Ministry is mainly on account of only a marginal increase in the plan budget of the Ministry. This was due to reduction in approved plan outlay of the Ministry by Rs. 70 crores by the Planning Commission, for salary and establishment related expenditure, as a part of its zero-Budget Based exercise and transfer of the same to non plan budget of the Ministry. While the reduction in plan budget was effected by the Planning Commission, its concomitant enhancement in Ministry’s non plan Budget was not effected by the Finance Ministry. The requirements of plan funds by various schemes/projects will be assessed, as a part of Ministry’s mid-year review exercise. Given the progress in utilization of funds and the additional requirements of funds, if any, necessary demand for additional funds will be made to Finance Ministry for various schemes/projects at R.E. stage. 24

Comments The Committee notes the reply and desires that it be apprised of the changes, if any, that were effected at the R.E. Stage. 25

MINUTES 26 27

XIII THIRTEENTH MEETING

The Committee met at 2.30 P.M. on Tuesday, the 4th March, 2008 in Committee Room ‘A’, Ground Floor, Parliament House Annexe, New Delhi. MEMBERS PRESENT 1. Dr. V. Maitreyan — Chairman RAJYA SABHA 2. Shri Bhagirathi Majhi 3. Shri Jabir Husain 4. Dr. Barun Mukherjee 5. Shri D. Raja LOK SABHA 6. Shri Jashubhai Dhanabhai Barad 7. Shri Thupstan Chhewang 8. Shri Francis Fanthome 9. Shri Brahmananda Panda 10. Shrimati Jayaben B. Thakkar 11. Shri Mitrasen Yadav 12. Shri Sita Ram Yadav 13. Shri Rampal Singh SECRETARIAT Shrimati Agnes Momin George, Joint Secretary Shri S. Jason, Joint Director Shri V.S.P. Singh, Deputy Director Shri S. Rangarajan, Assistant Director 3. The Committee took-up for consideration its draft One Hundred Eighty-fourth Report on Action Taken by the Government on the recommendations contained in the One Hundred Seventy- fourth Report of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, Environment and Forests on the Demands for Grants (2007-08) of the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Some members suggested certain modifications in the report which were carried out. The Committee, thereafter, adopted the report. 4. The Committee decided to present the 184th Report on the 11th March, 2008. The Committee authorized its Chairman and in his absence Dr. Prabha Thakur or Shri Ravula Chandra Sekar Reddy to present the report in Rajya Sabha. The Committee also authorized Shrimati Jayaben B. Thakkar and in her absence Shri Thupstan Chhewang or Shri Francis Fanthome to lay a copy of the report on the Table of Lok Sabha.

5. The Committee then adjourned at 3.00 P.M.

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