Democracy and Development NEXUS A Monthly Compendium

March 2016 www.swaniti.in

Disclaimer: The content of this compendium is for information purposes only. No legal liability or other responsibility is accepted by or on behalf of Swaniti Initiative for any errors, omissions, or statements in the compendium. Swaniti Initiative1 accepts no responsibility for any loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of reliance on such information.

About NEXUS

Dear Readers:

NEXUS is a monthly compilation of briefs, research insights, visualizations, and papers released by Swaniti. Our mission is to provide information insights on developmental issues that will be catalytic in initiating ground level change. Swaniti’s research insights are developed through a two-pronged approach: either elected officials request us for research support on key policy pieces or Swaniti sees contextual value in developing certain research insights. We currently work with Parliamentarians, policy makers and government enthusiasts on providing research insights on crosscutting issues. While we make all of our content available online, our intent through this publication is to create a one-stop location for all Swaniti information.

Since our primary objective is to support the vision and work in development being done by elected representatives, we also present the experience of our Associates working on different projects pertaining to health, education, gender and livelihood across the country with the intention of highlighting the challenges and the action initiated on the ground.

Moreover, aligned with our belief that data-driven policy discourse will ensure that decision making is more evidence based, we have partnered with Indian Express for a web-based series titled 'Data and Democracy'. Through this platform, we present our analysis on critical and contextual issues to the public and we have also included these visualizations in NEXUS. The key policy level actions taken by the Government on a weekly basis are also a part of this compendium under the section Policy Updates.

It is our sincere effort to disseminate our work through this compendium and seek your inputs and feedback to further innovate and improve as we move forward.

In case you would like to know more about our monthly compendiums please feel free to contact the below signed:

Chanda Jain Analyst, Swaniti Initiative Email: [email protected]

About Swaniti: Swaniti is a non-profit, non-partisan group, which works with elected representatives and senior policy makers to deliver development solutions across the country. The vision of the organization is to create a vibrant, better and inclusive India. It is in line with this vision that Swaniti provides knowledge support and human resource support to elected representatives in order to catalyze development at the grassroots.

2

From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Readers:

It is with great excitement that I am sharing with you our monthly Swaniti Compendium for the month of January! Every month we release a series of briefs, information insights, data analysis and research reports on our website in pursuit of informed policymaking. These releases are a combination of contextual insights and requests from Parliamentarians that we feel will contribute to the policy discourse. They range from policy analysis on the Consumer Protection Bill 2015 to insights on the access to energy in India. The content produced reflects our mission to deliver development solutions by providing knowledge on key developmental issue. To disseminate our knowledge insights we are going a step further.

In the form of a monthly compendium, the Swaniti team hopes to take our information from online to print in a structured manner. We figured rather than you needing to visit our website oh-so-frequently, why not bring to you the information in a print version. The goal is that at the first of every month we will be releasing the “monthly compendium” that will bring to you the information we released that month in a concise and reader friendly manner. This compendium will be available to you online and in print.

We hope that you will gain insights from our compendium. Excited about the new chapter.

Best, RBA

3

Parliamentarians Speak

“The two Swaniti fellows I had earlier worked with had professional degrees in engineering and management and the current fellow is a professional, she has worked in important organizations internationally. So, this is a good sign, these are professionals, qualified and they are bringing specific skills where we have a need for them in the constituency and improving systems of governance.”

- Jay Panda, Lok Sabha MP (Kendrapara)

“By way of saying a big Thank You, I am specifically mentioning Swaniti in my intervention suggesting that the Finance Minister consult with you and other similar social sector think tanks in preparing the budget for next year.” - Mani Shankar Aiyar, Rajya Sabha MP

"Swaniti gives parliamentarians like me a great opportunity to harness the talent of professionals in the governance of our respective constituencies, and I can tell you from my personal experience that I have started to benefit hugely from this initiative.” - Dinesh Trivedi, Lok Sabha MP (Barrakpore)

“The Swaniti Fellows that worked with me were well qualified individuals with a sense of social responsibility. They analyzed government data, understood local challenges and provided solutions specific to my constituency. I strongly encourage young individuals to understand our system of governance and engage with policy makers through fellowships as well as internships. It’s good to have a new perspective to things and work together to bring about change!”

- Anurag Thakur, Lok Sabha MP (Hamirpur)

“Swaniti has added real value to my constituency work and policy approaches. They have a team of passionate and committed Fellows who have worked closely and tirelessly with my office and me to provide high quality deliverables. I am very happy and satisfied with their amazing work.” - PD Rai, Lok Sabha MP (Sikkim)

4

Table of Contents

About NEXUS ...... 2 From the Desk of the CEO ...... 3 Parliamentarians Speak ...... 4 Tamra Patra ...... 6 Consumer Protection Bill 2015...... 8 LPG Access Schemes in India...... 14 Budgetary Allocations for Equitable Development ...... 20 Data and Democracy ...... 34 Energy Poverty in India ...... 36 State of Electricity in India ...... 37 Research Support and Engagement with Elected Officials ...... 39 Empowering Parliamentarians with Knowledge Support ...... 41 Swaniti in the Media ...... 43 Paving the Way for Today‟s Youth ...... 45 Setu Bharatam ...... 47 Weekly Policy Updates ...... 49 February 27th – March 4th (Week 1) ...... 51 March 5th – March 11th (Week 2)...... 52 March 12th – March 18th (Week 3) ...... 53 Upcoming...... 54

5

Tamra Patra

6

About Tamra Patra

Tamra Patra is Swaniti's knowledge repository through which we summarize briefs on government schemes and programmes. We research implementation strategies and best practices that can be emulated across constituencies. We also analyze programme approaches that can be beneficial for policy makers and development specialists. This information is consolidated and disseminated in the form of brief to all the MPs, and is also uploaded on our website.

For the March issue of NEXUS, we worked on the following briefs:

Consumer Protection Bill 2015: The policy brief provides insights on the existing framework for consumer protection and welfare in the country. women working in the agriculture sector. It highlights the provisions under the new Consumer Protection Bill 2015, introduced in the monsoon session of Parliament, which seeks to address some of these issues and replace the extant Act.

LPG Access Schemes in India: In order to expand the ambit of subsidies to ensure maximum reach, the Government has launched an array of scheme to ensure LPG access. A total LPG subsidy budget of Rs. 21,802 crore has been allocated for the year 2016-17. In this context, the brief explains the governmental initiatives undertaken in this field such as the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and PAHAL DBT Scheme and their potential impact.

Budgetary Allocations for Equitable Development: The policy of Tribal Sub Plan was introduced in 1974-75 during the 5th Plan period, while the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) was introduced later in 1979-80. The strategy aims at directing Plan resources across Central Ministries / Departments and State Governments to close the development gap between SCs, STs and others. In this context, the brief analyzes ministry-wise allocations under Scheduled Caste Sub Plan and Scheduled Tribes Sub Plan. .

7

Consumer Protection Bill 2015 Creating a robust consumer protection framework

India is predicted to be amongst the fastest growing markets. By 2020, India is projected to be the world‟s third largest middle class consumer market behind China and USA. As per a market research report, by 2030 India is likely to surpass both countries with an aggregated consumer spend of nearly US $13 trillion. With a growing economy and resultant increase in purchasing power of consumers, there is a need to safeguard the consumers from exploitation and adulterated and sub-standard goods and services. In order to provide for better protection of interests, the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 was adopted on 24th December, 1986.

Salient Features of the Act:

 The Act provides for establishing three-tier consumer dispute redressal machinery at the national, state and district levels.  It applies to all goods and services.  The Act provides for relief of a specific nature and also for compensation to the consumer as appropriate.  The Act also provides for setting up of Consumer Protection Councils (Consumer Forums) at the Central, State and District levels, which are advisory bodies to promote and protect the rights of the consumers.

As per the provisions of the Act, quasi-judicial bodies have been set up in each District and State and at the National level, called the District Forums, the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions and the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission respectively. At present, there are 650 District Forums, out of which 619 are functional. In Chhattisgarh, one-third of the Consumer Forums are not functional. Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra have the highest number of District Consumer Forums. There are 35 State Commissions and the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission is (NCDRC) at the apex.

Each District Forum is headed by a person who is or has been or is eligible to be appointed as a District Judge and each State Commission is headed by a person who is or has been a Judge of High Court. The National Commission, constituted in the year 1988, is headed by a sitting or retired Judge of the Supreme Court of India.

State-wise Number of Functional District Consumer Fora

100 79 80

60 48 40 37 33 40 31 31 30 20 0 Uttar Pradesh Madhya Maharashtra Rajasthan Bihar Karnataka Odisha Gujarat Pradesh

8

Amendments to the Consumer Protection Act, 1986

Based on the implementation experience of the provisions of the Act, it was amended thrice in 1991, 1993 and 2002. The delay in disposal of cases at the district, state and national levels, including the level of pendency, was a major cause of concern for the Government. Therefore, proposals were made to further amend the Act which led to the passing of the Consumer Protection (Amendment) Act, 2002. The amended provisions empowered the senior-most member to preside over the Bench in case of absence of the President so that the Forum functions uninterruptedly. Further, Presidents of the National Commission & the State Commissions were empowered to constitute Benches with one or more Members for their effective functioning. The amendments were mainly aimed at:

 Facilitating quicker disposal of complaints  Enhancing the capability of redressal agencies  Streamlining procedures and widening the scope of the Act  Rationalizing the qualifications and procedure of selection of President and Members of the Consumer Forums

Challenges of the Existing Provisions

Though the Act has succeeded in bringing about fair play in the supply of goods and services and redressal of consumer grievances through the consumer courts, some shortfalls in the existing provisions still need to be addressed. These shortfalls include delay in disposal of cases resulting in pendency, restrictive definitions, shortage of manpower, etc.

Table 1: Total Number of Consumer Complaints Filed / Disposed since Inception Name of Agency Cases Filed since Cases Disposed of Cases Pending % of Total Inception since Inception Disposal National Commission 98063 88031 10032 89.8% State Commissions 694546 598477 96069 86.2% District Forums 3650986 3365999 284987 92.2%

As per the 26th report of the Standing Committee on Food, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution, the disposal rate is satisfactory. However, there have been instances where the proceedings have continued for very long though it is expected that they should be decided within a period of 90 days. The delay in expedited disposal of cases is highly prevalent in the State Commissions in Bihar, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh.

Percentage of Disposal of Cases in State Commissions

Uttar Pradesh 66

Odisha 72.6

Nagaland 59.6

Manipur 79.9

Bihar 74.9

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 9

Some of the other issues noticed in the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, were as follows: a) A number of definitions in the Act were restrictive and did not cover all situations/contingencies not specifically mentioned in the definition, e.g. definition of branch office, defect, deficiency etc. b) The seller of goods or provider of services, after selling such goods or rendering of such services, could refuse to take back the goods or discontinue the service and refuse to refund the amount paid by the consumer, with no legal remedy for the consumer under the Act. c) Refusal of the seller of goods/service provider to furnish a bill to the consumer for payment made was not considered as an unfair trade practice against which a complaint could not be filed in a Consumer Forum. d) ‘Unfair contract‘ has not been specifically included as a ground for filing a complaint in the Consumer Forums e) There was no legal provision in the Act for giving additional charge of a non-functioning forum to President of forum of adjoining district. This often led to a shortage of manpower, especially in District Forums, which causes delay in disposal. Table 2: Number of Vacant Posts Vacant Posts of President Vacant Posts of Members National Commission 0 2 State Commission 1 18 District Forum 150 348

Consumer Protection Bill, 2015

The new Consumer Protection Bill 2015, which was introduced in the monsoon session of Parliament, seeks to address some of these issues and replace the extant Act. The law hopes to facilitate development of new markets and to further widen the ambit and a scope of the law to incorporate nuances and avoid loopholes.

Key features of the Bill a) Complaints A consumer, or anyone on his behalf, may file a complaint on matters like: (i) defect in goods, (ii) deficiency in services, (iii) unfair or restrictive trade practices, (iv) publication of a misleading advertisement, (v) harm caused to the consumer due to a defect in a product or a deficiency in a service, and (vi) unfair terms in a contract.

Any person may file a complaint against a person who has publicized a misleading advertisement as it impinges on the rights of consumers to make informed choices. Advertisement refers to any audio or visual publicity, representation or pronouncement made through all mediums including the Internet. It can also include any notice, circular, label, wrapper, invoice or any other document. b) Product Liability The Bill seeks to make manufacturers liable for any injury attributed to the defect in the product. It enables the person to make a claim of product liability, if he has suffered any injury, property damage or death due to a defect in a product. The claimant must prove that the product: (i) had a manufacturing defect, (ii) had a design defect, (iii) 10

contained inadequate instructions for use, (iv) did not conform to an express warranty, (v) belonged to the manufacturer, and (vi) caused the injury. The claimant would have to establish that the manufacturer had known or ought to have known of the dangerous aspect about the product that caused the harm. c) Regulatory Body A new regulatory body, i.e. the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), will act to enforce consumer rights, impose penalties and pass orders regarding recall of products, unfair contracts, misleading advertisements etc, and others. It will play the role of an executive agency that is consumer centric, can make class action intervention, or initiate suo moto action when necessary to prevent unfair trade practices or consumer detriment. d) Unfair terms in contracts The Bill enumerates six ‘tests’ to identify unfair contracts. A contract is said to be unfair if it contains any one of the following: (i) payment of excessive security deposits, (ii) payment of a disproportionate penalty for a breach in contract, (iii) refusal to accept early repayment of debts, (iv) right to terminate the contract without reasonable cause, (v) transfer of a contract to a third party to the detriment of the other party, without that party‟s consent, or (vi) imposing of any unreasonable charge or obligations which put the consumer at a disadvantage. e) Unfair trade practices Unfair trade practice has been identified to include: (i) making a false statement regarding the quality or standard of a good or service, (ii) selling of goods not complying with standards, (iii) manufacture of spurious goods, (iv) not issuing a receipt for a good or service sold, (v) refusal to withdraw or refund goods or services within 30 days, (vi) disclosing personal information provided by a consumer to any other person, etc. f) Punitive Measures Failure to comply with an order of the District, State or National Commissions, will attract imprisonment up to three years or a fine of up to Rs. 50,000, as compared to Rs. 10,000 in the past.

If a person does not comply with an order issued by the Consumer Protection Authority, he may face imprisonment of up to six months, or a fine of up to Rs 20 lakh, or both. The Authority may also impose penalties with regards to the advertisement and production of food. The penalty for publishing a false advertisement would be a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh. The penalty for the manufacture, sale, storage, distribution or import of food containing extraneous matter would be a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh. g) Mediation Cells The Bill introduces mediation as a mode of alternative dispute resolution. Mediation cells are to be attached to consumer dispute redressal agencies at the district, state and national level. These will help in out-of-court settlement of disputes by a mediator, except in cases of grave threats to life, physical or mental injuries. h) Pecuniary jurisdiction The pecuniary jurisdiction, which is based on the billed value of goods and services, has been increased for the District, State and National adjudicatory bodies.

11

1986 Act 2015 Bill District Up to Rs. 25 lakh Up to Rs. 50 lakh State Between Rs. 25 lakh and Rs. 1 crore Between Rs. 50 lakh and Rs. 10 crore National Above Rs. 1 crore Above Rs. 10 crore i) Composition of Adjudicatory Body The strength of State and National Commissions has been increased which may help expedite the disposal of cases. The composition of adjudicatory bodies has been broadened to include technical members as well.

1986 Act 2015 Bill District Headed by current or former High Court judge and Headed by person qualified to be a district judge or 2 other members. a district magistrate, and 2 other members. State Headed by current or former High Court judge and Headed by current or former high court judge and 4 2 other members other members. National Headed by current or former Supreme Court Judge Headed by current or former Supreme Court Judge and 4 other members. and at least 15 other members j) District Forums The District Commission may issue the following orders: remove the defect, replace the good, return the price amount, stop the sale or manufacture of hazardous products, discontinue unfair trade practices or pay compensation for any loss suffered by the consumer. Appeals from its decisions will be heard by the State Commission. Further appeals may be filed before the National Commission, and then before the Supreme Court.

The District Commission will have the power to grant punitive damages of a sum equal to or more than 25% of the value of defective goods and services. k) Online Services The bill seeks to allow online filing of cases as well, as make it mandatory for the consumer forums to publish the data regarding filing, disposal of complaints etc on their respective website. Similarly, it envisages bringing e-commerce within the purview of the CPA.

Critical Analysis

The changes brought about by the market economy, the marketing practices as well as the rapid advances in the area of digital technology, have all had an impact on consumer protection in India. The 2015 Bill seeks to address the lacunae present in the 1986 Act and increase the scope of consumer protection. However, there are certain aspects of the Bill which raise concerns:

 The Bill empowers the central government to (i) supervise the functioning of, and (ii) issue binding directions to the district, state and national consumer redressal commissions. Such involvement of the executive in the

12

functioning of the redressal commissions could violate the principle of separation of powers, and hence affect their independence. This violation may also take place due to the change in composition of the District Commissions, wherein it can be headed by a District Magistrate who is part of the executive.  The draft bill provides for mediation as a mechanism to resolve the disputes. Introduction of such a provision is likely to delay the process of settlement.  The Bill places unreasonable burden on the claimant to establish liability of the manufacturer. S/he is required to prove all of seven conditions with regard to a defective product. Additionally, the claimant must also prove that the manufacturer had knowledge of, or should have, under reasonable circumstances, known of the danger.

Conclusion

A robust consumer protection framework will give impetus to a strong consumer-driven economy. The Consumer Protection Bill, 2015 fills gaps which were not addressed by the pre-liberalization era Consumer Protection Act, 1986. However, there is a need to look into the feedback and concerns voices by various stakeholders as certain challenges still remain.

13

LPG Access Schemes in India Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana on 10 March 2016. The scheme aims to provide free LPG connections to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households. With an initial earmarked allocation of Rs. 8000 crore1, it will target the provision of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) connections to 5 crore BPL households over three financial years (FY) from 2016 to 2019.

Background

22% of India’s population lives below the poverty line2, with around 25.7% of the total households living in rural areas and 13.7% of the households in urban areas having incomes less than the defined poverty levels. Due to high upfront costs and LPG refill prices, Access to cooking gas (LPG) is limited for this section of the society being predominantly accessible to middle class and affluent households living in the urban and semi-urban areas of the country. As per reply given by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in the Lok Sabha, the percentage of active registered consumers3 of LPG is 111% of the total number of households in urban areas. This statistic hints towards the existence of duplication i.e. multiple LPG connections per household in the urban areas.

% LPG Coverage as per Census 2011

70% 65% LPG Coverage for urban households is 65% 60%

50%

40% Coverage for rural households stands at 11% 28.50% 30%

20% 11%

10% Overall LPG reach across India is 28.5% 0% India Rural Urban

Source: Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 2706 answered on 14th March 2016

1 Data Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB) release on 10th March 2016 2 Data Source: RBI Handbook of Statistics on the Indian Economy released on 16th September 2015 3 Data Source: Lok Sabha Unstarred Question Number 2706 answered on 14th March 2016 14

Moreover, the non-LPG using households rely on other solid forms of fuel like wood, dung, coals or agricultural residues in simple stoves or open fires, known to pose serious health hazards to the lungs and may lead to a variety of respiratory diseases. According to WHO estimates4, 4,88,200 deaths per year in India are caused by unclean indoor air arising from use of solid fuels.

Subsidized provision of LPG connections to BPL households will ensure maximum coverage across the country, thereby reducing reliance on solid fuels. Additionally, it will help in reducing the time spent on cooking. Since the scheme targets access to LPG for women, it can contribute towards their empowerment and protection of health. Furthermore, it can lead to employment generation for rural youth in the supply chain management of LPG.

Backdrop of LPG Access Schemes in India

Prior to 2002, prices of motor spirit, high-speed diesel, kerosene for Public Distribution System (PDS) and domestic LPG were determined by the Government and administered through the Oil Coordination Committee (OCC). Cross subsidization of PDS Kerosene and domestic LPG was achieved through higher motor spirit prices. The net value from cross subsidization by public sector petroleum companies constituted the „oil-pool‟5 surplus or deficit. Any balances were carried on to state-owned oil companies, occasionally being settled through Government interventions. By 1997, the Government had planned a phased transition from an administered price regime to a market-determined structure.

Rajiv Gandhi Direct Benefit PAHAL Aadhaar Market Government Administered Corpus Fund Gramin LPG Transfer for LPG linkage not Determined Price LPG Prices (Before 2002) Scheme (1992) Vitaran Yojana Aadhaar Linked mandatory Regime (2002) (2009) (2013) (2014)

However, despite the subsidy, the LPG coverage in India still stands at 60%, with an even low rural penetration primarily due to issues of distribution coverage and high upfront costs. In order to increase accessibility of domestic LPG, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has rolled out several schemes.

1) Corpus Fund Scheme: The scheme was notified in 1992 and aimed to provide support to Scheduled Caste (SC)/ Scheduled Tribe (ST) LPG distributors. Public sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) provided land and infrastructural support to LPG distributors availing the scheme. In 2012, this facility was replaced by a bank mediated financial assistance scheme where OMCs facilitated the provision of loans to distributors by tying up with banks. OMCs also provided working capital to distributors.

2) Rajiv Gandhi Gramin LPG Vitaran Yojana (RGGVY): The scheme was started in 2009 with a focus on rural households and areas with low LPG coverage. The aim of the scheme was to start small size LPG distributor agencies. It provides one-time financial assistance to BPL households, with public sector OMCs bearing the cost of security deposit and pressure regulator.

4 Data Source: WHO Report - http://www.who.int/indoorair/health_impacts/burden_national/en/ 5 Ministry of Finance Report on „Central Government Subsidies in India 2004‟ 15

3) CSR Scheme for Release of Connection to BPL Families: BPL families can avail new LPG connections without paying the security deposit of one cylinder and one pressure regulator through the CSR scheme under RGGVY. However, the other expenses for release of new LPG connections like installation and administration charges need to be borne by the consumers. The grant for deposit is met through CSR funds of OMCs, constituting 5% of the funds earmarked for CSR budget. In order to avail the benefits, the BPL card holders need to approach their nearest distributor and get themselves registered as prospective LPG consumers under the scheme.

With existing schemes focused on creation of more distributor agencies, the current focus of the Government has been to address the deficiency in the coverage of LPG for domestic use, especially in rural areas and poor households. Subsidies on an LPG cylinder go up as high as 100% 6 creating a strong incentive for pilferage and diversion of subsidized cylinders for commercial use. In order to eliminate this diversion, LPG was proposed to be brought to the supply chain at a single market price. Under this mechanism, the prices are determined by market forces and a cash transfer, equal to the amount paid by the Government to maintain the price of LPG, is given directly to the consumer. To this effect, the Direct Benefit Transfer for LPG Scheme was introduced.

The Direct Benefit Transfer of LPG Scheme (DBTL) was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) in May 2013. The scheme was launched in 18 districts on 1st June 20137. In January 2014, the scheme had been extended to 291 districts across 6 phases, covering 9.6 crore LPG consumers. All Aadhaar linked domestic LPG consumers received an advance in their bank account as soon as the first cylinder was booked. However, since the scheme was contingent on the possession of the Aadhaar card by consumers, the benefits were constrained to the population already possessing Aadhaar numbers. The Supreme Court of India8later released an order stating it was not mandatory to have an Aadhaar card to avail benefits from Government schemes, leading to the formation of the PAHAL Scheme. The Pratyaksh Hastantrit Labh (PAHAL) Scheme was launched in November 2014 in its 1st phase in 54 districts and in January 2015 in the remaining 622 districts of the country9. It provides a fixed number of subsidized domestic LPG cylinders to consumers through a direct benefit transfer. However, unlike the previous version of this scheme (DBTL), the beneficiaries are not limited to Aadhaar cardholders.

Details of LPG Schemes in India

In order to expand the ambit of subsidies to ensure maximum reach, the Government has launched an array of schemes. A total LPG subsidy budget of Rs. 21,802 crore has been allocated for the year 2016-17. Details of the major schemes are given below.

1) Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: The scheme aims to provide LPG connections to women beneficiaries from BPL households. Identification of BPL families will be carried out in consultation with State and Union Territory Governments. An initial financial support of Rs.1600 would be given for each LPG connection in addition to an EMI

6Dhande Committee Report on „Review of Direct Benefit Transfer for LPG Scheme 2014‟ 7 Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas document on „New Initiatives‟ 8 Supreme Court of India Website - http://supremecourtofindia.nic.in/FileServer/2015-10-16_1444976434.pdf 9 Press Information Bureau release on 31st December 2014 16

facility to meet the cost of stoves and refill10. The scheme has received a Union Budget allocation of Rs.2000 Crore for FY 2016-17 to provide connections to 1.5 crore women from BPL families. It will be continued for two more years in order to cover the target of 5 crore households by 2019.

2) PAHAL DBTL Scheme: Current coverage by OMCs‟ LPG distributors caters to 97% of the geographical blocks of the country. The public sector OMCs aim to increase the national LPG coverage to 75% with a minimum 60% coverage in each state and at least one distributor in each block by 2019. The DBTL scheme was first launched in June 2013 with a mandatory requirement of Aadhaar card to avail benefits. However, the scheme was later reviewed to take in to account the difficulties borne by consumers and re-launched in 2014. The modified PAHAL scheme has two options for consumers to receive subsidy. Once the consumer joins the scheme, he/she is referred to as the Cash Transfer Compliant (CTC).

 Option 1 (Primary): Consumers who have Aadhaar numbers are required to link it with their bank accounts and their 17-digit LPG consumer ID.  Option 2 (Secondary): If consumers do not possess Aadhaar number, they have the option of either linking their present bank account number with their LPG consumer ID or providing account details to their LPG distributor.

Consumers who had already signed up for the subsidy through the previous version of the scheme are now required to take no action and will receive their due amount through their already linked Aadhaar numbers. However, such CTCs will not be allowed to avail option two. Post registration, the consumers will receive cylinders at market price and the LPG subsidy will be transferred in the form of a cash advance to their linked accounts. CTCs will first receive a one time permanent advance of Rs.568 in their bank accounts prior to purchase of the first market price cylinder. Consumers will also receive SMS at each stage in the scheme to ensure transparency.

Non-CTC consumers were allowed 3 months of grace period from the date of launch of PAHAL to become CTC. During this period, consumers were entitled to subsidized cylinders at the then applicable subsidized retail selling price. Post the grace period, all non-CTC LPG consumers were given an additional 3 months of parking period, during which cylinders were given at market-determined price for all LPG consumers. However, the subsidy amount was held back with their OMC for consumers in the parking period. This amount was to be released if and when the consumer became CTC. If the consumer failed to become CTC during this period, the funds held back would automatically lapse, making him/her ineligible for parked funds. After expiration of the grace period of 3 months and the parking period for additional 3 months, the Non-CTC consumers continue to receive cylinders at market-determined prices until they become CTC.

3) Opt Out of Subsidy (Give It Up) Scheme: LPG is a highly subsidized commodity in India with subsidies being as high as Rs. 40,000 crore in FY 2014-1511, contributing to a gigantic subsidy burden on the Government. To this effect, the „Opt Out‟ or „Give It Up‟ Campaign has been launched to encourage LPG consumers who can afford to pay the market

10 Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas summary, „Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and Other LPG Initiatives‟ 11 Data Source: Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 156 answered on 30th November 2015 17

price of LPG to voluntarily surrender their subsidy. This will help to significantly reduce the under recoveries for oil companies and subsidy outflow for the Government. Against each consumer who opts out of the subsidy, a free connection is provided to a BPL household. These connections are released through the CSR scheme mentioned below. Consumers also have the option of listing themselves in the „scroll of honours‟ on the MyLPG website to list their name amongst others who have voluntarily given up their subsidies. Till now, more than 90 lakh consumers have successfully given up LPG subsidy.

Impact Analysis

Potential Impact of LPG Related Schemes

The re-launch of the DBTL PAHAL scheme was done after a comprehensive re-examination of the previous scheme. PAHAL is proposed to have a large number of benefits on the Government, the OMCs and the public.

 The scheme supports self-selection, giving an „opt-out‟ option. This can potentially lead to a reduction in subsidy burden on the public exchequer. The Union Budget currently provides a budgetary support of over Rs. 19,000 crore for LPG subsidies.  The scheme may ensure entitlement reaches the consumer directly, consequently leading to improvement in public service delivery and reduction in diversion of subsidy. It can also lead to a reduction in the number of duplicate/multiple connections by way of Aadhaar based de-duplication, thereby reducing supply chain leakages and unauthorized usage.  Decline in diversion will ensure greater availability of cylinders, thereby reducing the LPG waiting time.  The scheme also proposes to increase spin off benefits to the banking sector by increasing activity in inactive bank accounts leading to increased financial inclusion and participation.  For OMCs, it will lead to a reduction in administrative overheads due to reduction in compliance enforcement and number of grievances related to unauthorized usage, diversion and delayed deliveries and public auditing for the subsidy.  A centralized grievance redressal system has been set up to allow focus on consumer relationship management. Improved quality of consumer database can be used for data mining leading to improved services.

LPG Connections Issued to BPL Households 4000000 3746005

3000000

2000000 1410658

1000000 173928 300947 0 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 Apr-Jan 2016 18

Current Impact of DBT LPG Subsidy

 At present, 15.25 crore12 households have joined PAHAL. A total cash transfer of Rs.30,431 crore has been made under the scheme.

LPG LPG Subsidy Subsidy FY Subsidy FY Saving: Rs. 2013-14: 2014-15: 11,640 Rs. 52,231 Rs. 40,591 Crore Crore Crore

 The number of new LPG connections issued to BPL households under PAHAL has consistently increased from 2012-13 to January 2016. The increase has been a whopping 165% from 2014-15 to April-January 2016.

 As per a question answered in Lok Sabha on 30th November 2015, subsidy savings of Rs. 11,640 crore has been achieved between 2013-14 and 2014-15. The saving can be attributed to fall in oil prices and implementation of PAHAL.

Conclusion

The Direct Benefit Transfer for LPG Subsidy (DBTL), now re-launched as PAHAL DBTL, was a noteworthy step towards strengthening the LPG subsidy mechanism in India. The DBTL can ensure reduction in diversion of domestic LPG to commercial use. Since bank accounts or Aadhaar card numbers are linked to the LPG database, it can identify ghost connections, consequently decreasing de-duplication and subsidy burden. The Prime Minister Ujjwala Yojana was released on March 2016 and the specific details and its effects on existing schemes are not yet clear. However, it is a significant step for targeted subsidy provision of LPG to promote use of clean and sustainable cooking fuels.

12 Data Source: PAHAL and LPG Subsidy Details mentioned on www.petroleum.nic.in 19

Budgetary Allocations for Equitable Development Analysis of allocations under Scheduled Caste Sub Plan and Tribal Sub Plan

The policy of Tribal Sub Plan was introduced in 1974-75 during the 5th Plan period, while the Scheduled Caste Sub Plan (SCSP) was introduced later in 1979-80. The strategy aims at directing Plan resources across Central Ministries / Departments and State Governments to close the development gap between SCs, STs and others. The guidelines for the implementation of the SCSP and TSP have been revised from time to time.

Prior to 2010, the central ministries were expected to earmark funds under SCSP and TSP which was proportionate to the SC and ST population at the national level, i.e., 16.2% of total plan outlay for SCSP, and 8.6%under TSP. A Task Force to review guidelines on SCSP and TSP was set up in June, 2010 under the Chairmanship of Dr. Narendra Jadhav, Member, Planning Commission, which recommended differentiated obligations on Ministries to earmark plan outlays under SCSP and TSP, instead of a uniform share. The committee submitted its recommendations on 25th November, 2010. Accordingly, as per D.O. No. N- 11016/ 12(1)/2009-PC dated 15th December, 2010, Member Secretary, Planning Commission conveyed that the recommendations of the Task Force on differentiated Ministry / Department wise earmarking of Plan funds under SCSP / TSP had been accepted. According to the guidelines, Central Ministries/ Departments have been divided into four categories, as given below (Ministry wise details given in the Annexure)-

Schedule Cast Sub Plan Tribal Sub Plan  Ministries / Departments with no obligations for  Ministries / Departments with no obligations for earmarking funds – This includes regulatory earmarking funds – This includes regulatory ministries, ministries engaged in basic scientific ministries, ministries engaged in basic scientific research, ministries implementing large infrastructure research, ministries implementing large infrastructure projects, and those engaged in policy making without projects, and those engaged in policy making without any beneficiary schemes. any beneficiary schemes.  Ministries / Departments required to do Partial  Ministries / Departments required to do Partial Earmarking (less than 15% of Plan Outlay)- such as Earmarking (less than 7.5% of Plan Outlay)- such as Ministry of Power, Textiles, AYUSH, and others Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Textiles, and others  Ministries / Departments required to earmark  Ministries / Departments required to earmark between 15 to 16.2% of their Plan Outlays- such as between 7.5% to 8.2% of their Plan Outlays- Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, Department of Health and Family Welfare and others Department of Health and Family Welfare and others  Ministries / Departments required to earmark more  Ministries / Departments required to earmark more than 16.2% of their Plan outlays – such as than 8.2% of their Plan outlays – such as Department Department of Drinking Water, Department of Rural of Drinking Water, Department of Rural Development Development and others and others

As per order No. 1/51/1/2015-Cab, dated 15th January, 2015, NITI Aayog shall be the successor in the interest of the Planning Commission and as such continue to discharge the responsibility of Scheduled Castes Sub- Plan (SCSP) and Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP), until further orders.

20

Allocations under SCSP / TSP

Mandated allocations under SCSP and TSP are dependent on the total plan outlays of respective Ministries. Actual allocations under SCSP and TSP have varied as per the total plan outlays of Ministries. An increase in plan outlays in 2016- 17, therefore explains the increase in SCSP and TSP allocations in the same year. However, allocations in 2016-17 have seen a marked decrease in comparison to 2014-15.

Central Plan Outlay by Ministries and Departments (in '000 crore)

575 521.03 555.32 465.28 550.01

2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Fig 1: Allocation and Expenditure under SCSP and TSP, Source: Union Budget- Statement 21 and 21A

Allocation under SCSP (in '000 crore) Allocation under TSP (in '000 crore)

50.55 32.39 41.56 38.83 24.6 24 37.11 21.71 30.85 19.98

2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Expenditure under SCSP (in '000 crore) Expenditure under TSP (in '000 crore)

34.72 22.04 33.61 20.18 19.92 28.35 30.03 17.45

2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15

21

While allocations under SCSP and TSP were highest in the year 2014-15, data on expenditure (Budget Actuals for 2014-15) shows that the amount spent was lower than previous years.

Comparison of Ministry / Department Allocations under SCSP and TSP

As SCSP and TSP allocations are governed by differentiated earmarking of funds, analysis of allocated amounts required study of individual ministries / departments. Based on the mandated earmarking for each concerned ministry/department out of the total plan outlay of the ministry/department, the required allocation for the given year was arrived at. A comparison with actual allocations under SCSP and TSP, pointed out that actual allocations were far below the required amount. Given below is an overview of shortfalls in SCSP and TSP allocations.

Scheduled Caste Sub Plan

Required allocation under SCSP was calculated on the basis of earmarked funds of each ministry. A comparison with actual allocations shows that not only has there been a shortfall in allocations, but the gap has increased over the years.

Allocations under SCSP

Required Allocation Actual Allocation

59619.55 56249.49 56273.5 52677.63 50547.08 46806 41247.81 36842.63 38706.73 30824.61

2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Fig 2: Allocations under SCSP, Statement 21of Union Budget

Between 2012-13 and 2016-17, the average annual shortfall between actual allocation and required allocation under SCSP, has been Rs 14,691.5 crore. The maximum shortfall in SCSP allocations was seen in the year 2016-17, at Rs 17,567 crore.

Given below is a snapshot of year wise performance. An Analysis of allocations made by Ministries / Departments under SCSP highlights some trends:

 Department of Rural Development has consistently failed to allocate the requisite amount (25% of total plan outlay of the Department) under SCSP, thus contributing to more than 80% of the shortfalls.  Some of the Ministries (such as DONER and HUPA) have failed to allocate any amount under SCSP.

22

 Ministry of Textiles, Women & Child Development and Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation have consistently allocated the requisite amount, while Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has allocated over and above the mandated amount.

Year SCSP Allocations  Allocations by Department of Rural Development, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation and Ministry of Panchayati Raj were much below the required amounts.  The allocation by Department of Rural Development was only Rs 4942.13 crore out of the total plan 2012-13 outlay of Rs 73,175 crore (25% of the total plan outlay has to be allocated under SCSP), leading to a mammoth shortfall of Rs 13,352 crore.  Allocations by Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of Women & Child Development and Department of Drinking water were as mandated, while Ministry of Social Justice and Ministry of Labour allocated over and above the mandated amount.  Allocations by Department of Rural Development, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation and Ministry of Panchayati Raj were much below the required amounts.  Out of the total plan outlay of Rs 74,429 crore, Department of Rural Development allocated only Rs 2013-14 6358.37 crore, while it was supposed Rs 18,607 crore (or 25% of the total plan outlay).  Ministry of DONER did not make any allocation under SCSP. Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of Women and Child Development and Ministry of New & Renewable Energy allocated the mandated amount, while Ministry of Labour & Employment allocated over and above the requisite sum.  Allocations by Department of Rural Development, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation and Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (HUPA) were much below the required amounts.  Out of the total plan outlay of Rs 80,043 crore, Department of Rural Development allocated only Rs 14033.5 crore, which was lesser than the required amount of Rs 20,010.75 crore (or 25% of the total plan outlay). 2014-15  Ministry of DONER along with Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (HUPA) failed to allocate any amount under SCSP. While Ministry of HUPA had allocated the requisite 22.5% of its total plan outlay in the previous years, it failed to do so this year, leading to a shortfall of Rs 1350 crore.  Allocations by Ministry of AYUSH, Ministry of Women & Child Development and Department of Drinking water were as mandated, while Ministry of Social Justice and Ministry of Labour allocated over and above the mandated amount.  Allocations by Department of Rural Development and Department of Agriculture & Cooperation were much below the required amounts.  Out of the total plan outlay of Rs 71,642 crore, Department of Rural Development allocated only Rs 3865.36 crore, which was lesser than the required amount of Rs 17,910.5 crore (or 25% of the total plan outlay). 2015-16  Ministry of DONER, Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Ministry of HUPA failed to allocate any amount under SCSP. While Ministry of HUPA had allocated the requisite 22.5% of its total plan outlay in the previous years, it failed to do so this year, leading to a shortfall of Rs 1350 crore.  Allocations by Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of Women & Child Development and Department of 23

Drinking water were as mandated, while Ministry of Social Justice and Ministry of Labour allocated over and above the mandated amount.  Allocations by Department of Rural Development, Department of Agriculture & Cooperation and Ministry of HUPA were much below the required amounts.  Out of the total plan outlay of Rs 86000 crore, Department of Rural Development allocated only Rs 2016-17 5431.68 crore, which was lesser than the required amount of Rs 21,500 crore (or 25% of the total plan outlay).  Ministry of DONER and Ministry of Panchayati Raj failed to allocate any amount under SCSP.  Allocations by Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of Women & Child Development and Department of Drinking water were as mandated, while Department of School Education & Literacy allocated over and above the mandated amount.

Ministries/ Departments have shown varied trends when it comes to allocations under SCSP. While shortfalls under Department of Rural Development have increased over the years, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation has tried to bridge the gap between allocated and required sum. Ministry of HUPA and Ministry of Panchayati Raj have shown erratic trends when it comes to SCSP allocations.

Department of Rural Development Department of Agri and Cooperation

Required Allocation Actual Allocation Required Allocation Actual Allocation

3500.658 3614.058 3273.696 3304.8 20010.75 21500 18293.75 18607.25 17910.5 2696.7087 14033.47 2430 1967.71 1780.8 1888.11 1930.88 6358.37 4942.13 3865.36 5431.68

2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Minsitry of HUPA Minsitry of Panchayati Raj

Required Allocation Actual Allocation Required Allocation Actual Allocation

1350 1134 1134 1134 1265.625 1215 1047.2 866.7

259.87 328.5 259.875 328.5 15.228 75.49 121.5 0 0 34.42 0 0

2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Fig 3: Ministry Wise Allocation under SCSP, Statement 21 and Volume 2 of Union Budget

24

Tribal Sub Plan

Required allocations under TSP were calculated on the basis of earmarked funds of each ministry. A comparison with actual allocations shows that not only has there been a shortfall in allocations, but the gap has increased over the years.

Allocations under TSP

Required Allocation Actual Allocation

36459.3942 34396.09805 35875.7625 32528.89801 32386.84 30469.33947 24598.39 23918.39 21710.11 19974.77

2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Fig 4: Allocations under TSP, Statement 21A of Union Budget

The maximum shortfall in TSP allocations was seen in the year 2016-17, at Rs 11,957.37 crore, much higher than the average shortfall of Rs 9428.2 crore in the last five years.

The following table shows a snapshot of year wise performance. An Analysis of allocations made by Ministries / Departments under TSP highlights some trends:

 Department of Rural Development has consistently failed to allocate the requisite amount (17.5% of total plan outlay of the Department) under TSP, thus contributing to more than 50% of the shortfalls.  Ministry of Culture, Department of Telecommunications and Ministry of Tourism have consistently allocated the requisite amount, while Ministry of Labour & Employment and Department of School Education & Literacy have allocated over and above the mandated amount.

Ministries / Departments have shown varied trends when it comes to allocations under TSP. While shortfalls under Department of Rural Development and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways have increased over the years, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation has tried to bridge the gap between allocated and required sum. Ministry of Panchayati Raj saw a major jump in allocation in 2014-15 followed by no allocation under TSP in the following years.

25

Year TSP Allocations  Department of Rural Development, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation and Ministry of Panchayati Raj allocated insufficient amounts.  Dept. of Rural Development allocated only Rs 3460 crore out of the total plan outlay of Rs 73175 crore, 2012-13 leading to a shortfall of Rs 9345.26 crore (as 17.5% must be marked under TSP).  Ministry of Culture, Department of Telecommunications and Ministry of Tourism allocated requisite amounts, while Ministry of Labour and Employment and Department of Food and Public Distribution allocated over and above the mandated amount.

 Department of Rural Development, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation and Ministry of Panchayati Raj allocated insufficient amounts.  Dept. of Rural Development allocated only Rs 4452 crore out of the total plan outlay of Rs 74429 crore, 2013-14 leading to a shortfall of Rs 9345.26 crore (as 17.5% must be marked under TSP).  Ministry of Culture, Department of Telecommunications and Ministry of Tourism allocated requisite amounts, while Ministry of Labour and Employment and Department of Food and Public Distribution allocated over and above the mandated amount.  Department of Rural Development, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways allocated insufficient amounts.  Dept. of Rural Development allocated only Rs 10,358.5 crore out of the total plan outlay of Rs 80043 2014-15 crore, leading to a shortfall of Rs 3649 crore (as 17.5% must be marked under TSP).  Ministry of Culture, Ministry of HUPA and Department of Health & Family Welfare allocated requisite amounts.  Ministry of Panchayati Raj allocated Rs 1203 crore, which was over and above the mandated Rs 574 crore. Ministry of Water Resources and Department of School Education and Literacy also allocated over and above the requisite amount.  Department of Rural Development, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways allocated insufficient amounts. 2015-16  Dept. of Rural Development allocated only Rs 2714.37 crore out of the total plan outlay of Rs 71642 crore, leading to a shortfall of Rs 9822.9 crore (as 17.5% must be marked under TSP).  Ministry of Culture, Department of AYUSH and Department of Health & Family Welfare allocated requisite amounts.  Department of School Education and Literacy allocated Rs 120 crore over and above the required amount.  Department of Rural Development, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation and Ministry of Road 2016-17 Transport and Highways allocated insufficient amounts.  Dept. of Rural Development allocated only Rs 4269.5 crore out of the total plan outlay of Rs 86000 crore, leading to a shortfall of Rs 10780 crore (as 17.5% must be marked under TSP).  Ministry of Water Resources allocated Rs 74.5 crore over and above the required amount.

Fig 5: Ministry Wise Allocation under TSP, Statement 21A and Volume 2 of Union Budget

26

Department of Rural Development Department of Agri and Cooperation

Required Allocation Actual Allocation Required Allocation Actual Allocation 15050 14007.525 1728.72 1784.72 12805.63 13025.075 12537.35 1616.64 1632 10358.49 1331.7 1200 882.59 932.5 953.52 971.71 4452.03 4269.49 3460.37 2714.37

2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Minsitry of Road Transport & Highways Minsitry of Panchayati Raj

Required Allocation Actual Allocation Required Allocation Actual Allocation 1925 1203 1501.94

1010.84 887.6 905.1 574 574 800 438.7 500 400 400 400 17.44 37.55 7.708 0 61.5 0

2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17

Comparison of State Government Allocations under SCSP and TSP

As per guidelines for earmarking of funds by State Governments under SCSP and TSP, each state has to allocate amounts proportionate to the SC and ST populations in the state under SCSP and TSP respectively. Therefore, based on mandated earmarking of funds by each State, required allocation by State Governments was calculated. A comparison with actual allocations by State Government, pointed out that there were shortfalls in allocations by State Governments. Given below is an overview of the same.

Scheduled Caste Sub Plan

Between 2011-12 and 2014-15, there have been shortfalls in allocations under SCSP, leading to an average shortfall of Rs 7544 crore.

27

Allocations under SCSP by State Governments

Required Allocation Actual Allocation

124661.38 116206.54 102744.79 89550.12 93439.87 82570.22 75507.36 70070.69

2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15

Fig 6: Allocations by State Governments under SCSP, Source: Lok Sabha Annexured Unstarred Question No. 748, 27/2/2015

Given below is a snapshot of year wise performance. An Analysis of allocations made by State Governments under SCSP highlights some trends:

 Haryana and Karnataka have consistently fallen short of allocating funds proportionate to the population of SCs in the states.  Bihar stands out as the one of the few states which have consistently allocated amounts over and above the mandated requirement.

Year SCSP Allocation  Allocations by Karnataka, Haryana and Maharashtra are much below the mandated amount. 2011-12  17.15% of Karnataka‟s population is SC, leading to a required allocation of Rs 6529 crore out of State Plan Outlay of Rs 38070 crore. However, only Rs 4633 crore have been allocated.  Tripura, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Bihar made allocations under SCSP over and above the share of SC population in the States. Bihar allocated Rs 4245.7 crore, higher than the required amount of Rs 3818 crore.  Haryana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh allocated insufficient amounts under SCSP. 2012-13  While 20.17% of Haryana‟s population is SC, leading to a required allocation of Rs 5342 crore out of State Plan Outlay of Rs 26485 crore, it allocated only Rs 2843 crore.  Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Bihar made allocations under SCSP over and above the share of SC population in the States. Bihar allocated Rs 5446 crore, higher than the required amount of Rs 4454.8 crore.  Karnataka, Haryana and Gujarat allocated insufficient amounts under SCSP. 2013-14  While 17.15% of Karnataka‟s population is SC, leading to a required allocation of Rs 8060.5 crore out of State Plan Outlay of Rs 47000 crore, it allocated only Rs 5823.88 crore.  Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar made allocations under SCSP over and above the share of SC population

28

in the States. Bihar allocated Rs 6260 crore, higher than the required amount of Rs 5409.4 crore.

 Tamil Nadu, Haryana and Assam allocated insufficient amounts under SCSP. 2014-15  While 20.01% of Tamil Nadu‟s population is SC, leading to a required allocation of Rs 11916 crore out of State Plan Outlay of Rs 59549 crore, it allocated only Rs 8479 crore.  Kerala, Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh made allocations under SCSP over and above the share of SC population in the States. UP allocated Rs 24005 crore, higher than the required amount of Rs 23494.5 crore. Fig 6: Allocations by State Governments under SCSP, Source: Lok Sabha Annexured Unstarred Question No. 748, 27/2/2015

States have shown varied trends when it comes to allocations under SCSP. While Haryana has consistently fallen short, Karnataka increased allocations significantly in the year 2014-15. While Tamil Nadu has consistently increased allocations under SCSP, it failed to match the increased total state plan outlay in 2014-15.

Karnataka Haryana

Required Allocation Actual Allocation Required Allocation Actual Allocation

11518.73 11250.36 6601.9 5460.42 7208.15 8060.5 5342.02 6529 5823.88 4106.21 3729.51 4064.8 4632.99 5125 2599.45 2843.34

2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15

Tamil Nadu Bihar

Required Allocation Actual Allocation Required Allocation Actual Allocation

11915.93 6416 4245.72 6260.36 6379.91 5013.29 6108.61 7403.7 8479.19 5446.17 5409.4 3818.4 4454.8 4709.35 5602.8 7041.99

2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15

Fig 7: State wise allocations, Source: Lok Sabha Annexured Unstarred Question No. 748, 27/2/2015

29

Tribal Sub Plan

Unlike SCSP, TSP allocations by State Governments have been in line with the required allocations, calculated keeping in mind the respective share of ST populations in each State.

Allocations under TSP by State Governments

Required Allocation Actual Allocation 70240.16 64904.83 60716.07 58258.56 54689.85 53218.46 44772.42 44170.7

2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15

Fig 8: Allocations by State Governments under TSP, Source: Lok Sabha Annexured Unstarred Question No. 748, 27/2/2015

Given below is a snapshot of year wise performance. An Analysis of allocations made by State Governments under TSP highlights some trends:

 Assam and Madhya Pradesh have consistently fallen short of allocating funds proportionate to the population of STs in the states.  Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh stand out amongst the few states which have consistently allocated amounts over and above the mandated requirement.

Year TSP

 Allocations by Assam, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka are much below the mandated amount.  12.4% of Assam‟s population is ST, leading to a required allocation of Rs 1116 crore out of State Plan 2011-12 Outlay of Rs 9000 crore. However, only Rs 63.16 crore have been allocated.  Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal made allocations under TSP over and above the share of ST population in the respective States. Jharkhand allocated Rs 7501.39 crore, higher than the required amount of Rs 4014.56 crore.  Allocations by Assam, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat are much below the mandated amount.  12.4% of Assam‟s population is ST, leading to a required allocation of Rs 1302 crore out of State Plan 2012-13 Outlay of Rs 10,500 crore. However, only Rs 72.46 crore have been allocated.  Jharkhand, J&K and Odisha made allocations under TSP over and above the share of ST population in the respective States. Jharkhand allocated Rs 8199.4 crore, higher than the required amount of Rs 4270.6 crore.

30

 Allocations by Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Assam are much below the mandated amount.  25.7% of MP‟s population is ST, leading to a required allocation of Rs 9123.5 crore out of State Plan 2013-14 Outlay of Rs 35,500 crore. However, only Rs 6800 crore have been allocated.  Jharkhand, West Bengal and J&K made allocations over and above the share of ST population in the respective States. Jharkhand allocated Rs 8474.6 crore, higher than the required amount of Rs 4401.6 crore.  Allocations by Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Rajasthan are much below the mandated amount.  25.7% of MP‟s population is ST, leading to a required allocation of Rs 13752.75 crore out of State Plan 2014-15 Outlay of Rs 53512.64 crore. However, only Rs 12057.64 crore have been allocated.  Jharkhand, Karnataka and Chhattisgarh made allocations over and above the share of ST population in the respective States. Jharkhand allocated Rs 11680.29 crore, higher than the required amount of Rs 6877.5 crore.

States have shown varied trends when it comes to allocations under TSP. Assam and Madhya Pradesh have fallen short of required allocations under TSP. While there was a significant improvement in allocation by MP in 2014-15, Assam continued to allocate meager amounts under TSP. Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh have allocated high amounts under TSP, which have consistently increased over the years.

Madhya Pradesh Assam

Required Allocation Actual Allocation Required Allocation Actual Allocation 1739.56 13752.75 1550 12057.64 1302 9123.5 1116 7196 6178.91 6800 5911 4964.9 63.16 72.46 82 90.2

2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15

Jharkhand Chattisgarh

Required Allocation Actual Allocation Required Allocation Actual Allocation

9518.57 7356 7952.17 11680.29 8144.19 5561.44 7184.88 7726.5 7501.39 8199.4 8474.6 5113.26 6877.5 4014.56 4270.6 4401.6

2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15

Fig 9: State wise allocations, Source: Lok Sabha Annexured Unstarred Question No. 748, 27/2/2015

31

Annexure: Differentiated Earmarking of funds by Ministries / Departments

Recommended Earmarking under SCSP (% of Total Ministry / Department Plan Outlay of Ministry / Dept) Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment 72.5 Department of Rural Development 25 Ministry of HUPA 22.5 Department of Drinking Water Supply 22 Department of School Education & Literacy 20 Ministry of Women and Child Development 20 Department of Agri and Cooperation 16.2 Ministry of Panchayati Raj 16.2 Department of Youth Affairs 16.2 Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying 16.2 Department of Land Resources 16.2 Ministry of Labor and Employment 16.2 Department of Health and Family Welfare 15.2 Department of Sports 15 Department of Higher Education 15 Ministry of MSME 12 Ministry of Power 8.3 Ministry of Textiles 5 Ministry of AYUSH 5 Department of Commerce 4.5 Ministry of New and Renewable Energy 3.5 Department of S&T 2.5 Ministry of Environment and Forests 2.2 Ministry of DONER 2

Recommended Earmarking under TSP (% of Total Plan Ministry / Department Outlay of Ministry / Dept) Ministry of Tribal Affairs 100 Department of Rural Development 17.5 Department of School Education & Literacy 10.7 Department of Land Resources 10 Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation 10 Ministry of Panchayati Raj 8.2 Ministry of MSME 8.2 Ministry of Coal 8.2

32

Department of Health & Family Welfare 8.2 Department of Sports 8.2 Ministry of Women & Child Development 8.2 Department of Youth Affairs 8.2 Ministry of Labor and Employment 8.2 Department of Agriculture &Cooperation 8 Department of Higher Education 7.5 Department of Information Technology 6.7 Ministry of Mines 4 Department of Agriculture Research & Education 3.6 Ministry of Road Transport & Highways 3.5 Ministry of Tourism 2.5 Department of Science & Technology 2.5 Ministry of HUPA 2.4 Ministry of Culture 2 Department of AYUSH 2 Department of Food and Public Distribution 1.4 Ministry of Water Resources 1.3 Ministry of Textiles 1.2 Department of Telecommunications 0.25 Source: Based on Recommendations of Dr. Jadhav Committee and accepted under D.O. No. N- 11016/ 12(1)/2009-PC by Planning Commission

33

Data and Democracy

34

About Data and Democracy

Data brings objectivity and efficiency in the delivery and assessment of development. There lies immense scope to leverage the data available in public domain to understand the state of development across sectors. Swaniti, in partnership with Indian Express, runs a Data and Democracy page where such raw data is analyzed to seek trends and presented to our audience in a streamlined format. The page can be viewed at visualdata.indianexpress.com.

Keeping in mind recently occurred events, we analyzed the following in the month of March:

Energy Poverty in India: In India, the energy consumption patterns in rural areas have been largely towards using firewood and other traditional biomass fuels such as chips, charcoal and dung cake. . Improving and extending access to energy services is one of the most urgent tasks that lies ahead. This section discusses the energy access in rural and urban India and sheds light on the implications of the coverage.

State of Electricity in India: On 20th January, the Union Cabinet approved amendments in Power Tariff Policy to ensure 24X7 affordable Power for all. Previously the Government had also initiated schemes like DDUGKY and UDAY aiming at full electrification and reforms in power distribution respectively. In this context we look at the Power Sector – Generation, Distribution and consumption.

35

Energy Poverty in India Analyzing access for rural and urban India

Energy access is not only essential at the household level, but is also very critical to the provision of basic minimum infrastructure such as hospitals, schools and industries among others. For a country like India, developmental goals and energy access are very closely linked. In India, the energy consumption patterns in rural areas have been largely towards using firewood and other traditional biomass fuels such as chips, charcoal and dung cake. The demand for energy particularly in rural India consists mainly of energy for cooking and energy for lighting. Improving and extending access to energy services is one of the most urgent tasks that lies ahead since majority of the rural population in the country still has no access to electricity, and more than one-half rely on traditional biomass as their principal household fuel.

The 2011 Census survey says that at all India level, firewood and chips are used by more than two-third (67%) of rural households, followed by LPG, which was used by 29% households. In the urban areas, most of the households used LPG as primary source of energy for cooking. LPG was used by 66% of the urban households at all-India level, followed by firewood and chips, used by 26% households and 8% of the households used kerosene. This has serious consequences for the indoor air quality in the households and the health of women and children who are often exposed to the emissions from firewood burning and kerosene fumes that result from their respective usage.

Fuel Used for Cooking by Households

Rural Urban Overall

100% 90% 87% 80% 70% 67% 66% 60% 50% 40% 29% 30% 26% 20% 12% 8% 10% 1% 3% 0% Firewood/ Crop residue LPG/PNG Kerosene

Access to clean energy fuels is a challenge among households particularly in the rural areas. As can be noted, access to cleaner fuels is limited and the use of traditional biomass predominant among rural households.

36

State of Electricity in India Analyzing access for rural and urban India

On 20th January, the Union Cabinet has approved amendments in Power Tariff Policy to ensure 24X7 affordable Power for all. Previously the Government had also initiated schemes like DDUGKY and UDAY aiming at full electrification and reforms in power distribution respectively. In this context we look at the Power Sector – Generation, Distribution and consumption. While capacity generation has been increasing at impressive pace, distribution seems to be a major roadblock with reduction in AT&C losses slower than targets. There is also a state-wise variation in terms of consumption shown in terms of households relying on Kerosene as primary source of lighting and average power consumption.

Electricity is one of the most critical components of infrastructure crucial for the economic growth and welfare of nations. The existence and development of adequate infrastructure is essential for sustained growth of the Indian economy. The electricity sector in India has an installed capacity of 298 GW (as on March 31, 2016). The private sector contributes 120 GW or 40.03%, while the state utilities contribute about 178 MW or 59.7%. Given below is the state wise distribution of total installed capacity.

Top three States

State Installed Power Capacity

Maharashtra 38,521.72 MW Gujarat 29,293.52 MW Tamil Nadu 23,105.79 MW

Bottom three States State Installed Power Capacity

Mizoram 119.42 MW

Nagaland 140.04 MW Manipur 206.11 MW

Installed Capacity addition during April 2012 and December 2015 has been 70,480 MW. This is 79.6% of the 12th plan target of 88,537 MW. During 2014-15 against the target 17830.30 MW generation capacity of 22,566.30 MW was achieved. India‟s average per capita energy consumption stands at 914 units / year. While energy consumption grew at 7.1% in 2014, nearly 30 crore people in India lived without electricity.

37

Source of Lighting in Rural Areaas Access to modern energy services is fundamental to fulfilling basic social needs, driving economic growth and Electricity Kerosene fuelling human development. This is because energy No Lighting Other Sources 0.8 services have an effect on productivity, health, education, 1.4 0.8 availability of safe water and communication services. Modern energy sources such as electricity, natural gas, 12.8 modern cooking fuels and mechanical power are necessary for improved health and education, better access to information and agricultural productivity. Increasing access to electricity is essential as it remains the major source of lighting in rural India. 85

38

Research Support and Engagement with Elected Officials

39

About Research Support and Engagement with Honorable MPs

Swaniti Initiative aims to inform MPs about development issues through dissemination of information on development topics like health, education, gender or livelihood in the form of analysis of schemes, briefs, research insights etc. Our research content is developed through consistent feedback and discussion with MPs. Additionally, Swaniti also provides on- ground support and grassroots level development insight at the constituency level in certain cases, where the area of intervention is focused on our 4 core sectors (health, education, gender and livelihood). As part of engagements, members from the Swaniti team travel to the constituency to study the issue at hand, interact with the different stakeholders and subsequently draw a plan of action to address the issue. The Swaniti team also follows up with the stakeholders at regular intervals to ensure that the project is completed in a time-bound manner.

Our team members conducted three Issue Briefings for Parliamentarians on the Union Budget FY 2016-17, Defence Procurement and the Consumer Protection Bill 2015. The sessions also hosted sectoral expert Ms. Yamini Aiyar, Mrs. Pushpa Girimahji, Mr. Suresh Jagirdar and Mr. Nitin Gokhale.

40

Empowering Parliamentarians with Knowledge Support Issue Briefings under Research And Development Advisory (RADA) services

At Swaniti, we have consistently provided knowledge support to Parliamentarians on key developmental and policy issues. Our partnership with Constitution Club was a major step in this direction. Setting up the Research and Development Advisory (RADA) Cell at Constitution Club has been very well received by Members of Parliament, who have appreciated the creation of a specific unit to provide knowledge support to Parliamentarians. As a part of the same initiative, we are also organizing issue briefings, which are sessions on policy and development issues, where the Swaniti team presents to Parliamentarians. Issue Briefings are marked by the presence of subject experts, who share their experience of working on the subject with those present. Key takeaways from issue briefings are the discussions and sharing of ideas amongst MPs. It is inspiring to see MPs across party lines engage deeply on policy issues.

During the budget session, three issue briefings were organized under RADA, Swaniti. The first briefing was on the Defence Procurement Policy (DPP). It was attended by members of the standing committee on defence, along with other Members of Parliament from diverse backgrounds. The expert for the session was Mr. Nitin Gokhale, the founder of „bharatshakti’, an online magazine, and author of several books on national security. While the new defence procurement policy is yet to be out, the discussion centred on key features that our expected to be a part of the policy. Members also discussed best practices from other countries, and strategies on how India can adopt the same.

The second issue briefing was organized on the Union Budget, 2016-17 with a special focus on social sector expenditure. Diverse set of MPs from different political parties, from both houses of the Parliament, attended the session. We invited two renowned experts for the session. Shri Rajiv Kumar from the Centre of Policy Research focused on the recent policy announcements in the budget, with a special focus on LPG subsidy scheme. He also gave an overview of the performance of Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT) scheme, and highlighted strategies to make it more effective. Ms. Yamini Aiyar from the Accountability Initiative focused on social sector allocations in the Union Budget. She also highlighted the performance of

41

different state governments in the social sector. Members of Parliament present shared their own perspective with regards to potential bottlenecks in the implementation of social sector programs.

The third issue briefing was on the Consumer Protection Bill, 2015, to discuss the nitty-gritty of the amendment, and to understand Consumer Protection scenario in India. Members of Parliament from the Standing Committee of Food and Public Distribution, along with other MPs attended the session. Two experts on consumer protection were a part of the session. Ms.Pushpa Girimaji, author, senior journalist and specialist in consumer law and consumer safety, provided an overview of the Consumer Protection scenario in India and discussed the existing and proposed institutional mechanisms for consumer rights and protection. Mr. Suresh Jagirdar, Member, FICCI FMCG Committee, shared the view of industry associations and perspective of concerned stakeholders on the proposed Consumer Protection Bill, 2015. The discussion was marked by interesting anecdotes from Parliamentarians present and their own experience with consumer protection landscape in India.

The issue briefings were very well received by the Parliamentarians. It was fascinating to see MPs keenly deliberate on crucial issues. As a follow up the briefing sessions, RADA also provided customized knowledge support to MPs present. Going ahead, RADA looks forward to three more issue briefings in the coming session.

42

Swaniti in the

Media

43

About Swaniti in the Media

Swaniti in the Media covers the diverse range of articles authored by Swaniti on key developmental and policy issues. The articles and research insights are published in leading broadsheets, news aggregators and daily newspapers. This section also covers the media pieces which cover Swaniti’s work with elected officials and highlight the projects that we have undertaken.

The March edition includes the following media articles:

Paving the way for India’s Youth: YourStory covered Swaniti’s journey and key projects undertaken by the organization in the field of gender empowerment. The article also speaks about Rwitwika’s, the Founder and CEO’s, inspiration behind founding Swaniti Initiative.

Setu Bharatam: The government launched the Setu Bharatam programme in March 2016 with the aim of making all National Highways free of railway crossings by 2019. This article examines the current infrastructural gaps and the reasons behind loss of life and property during Railway operations. This article was published in the Swaniti Blog on the website.

44

Paving the Way for Today’s Youth Published in YourStory

Though she hails from Kolkata, Rwitwika Bhattacharya grew up in Delhi till she was 10 years old. The rest of her schooling and higher education was in Florida, where she and her brother stayed with their uncle and aunt. Their summer holidays would be spent back home in India with their parents. It is probably this childhood, that was split between two countries, which gives Rwitwika a unique perspective – that of an insider, who is also an outsider. Rwitwika reminisces, “I would accompany my father to meetings and given that he is a politician, I got used to visiting MPs and ministers with him. Thus, I found my interest in governance early on. I think a lot of what I do at Swaniti is rooted in that childhood experience.”

Rwitwika had worked for an American senator, Katherine Harris, in her constituency while she was still in school, and saw first-hand the amount of help a senator gets for the work in his or her constituency, unlike their Indian counterparts. Swaniti is an NGO founded by the 29-year-old Rwitwika that focuses on providing end-to-end solutions to MPs and MLAs on development issues by taking on a three-pronged approach:

 They carry out research on priority issues;  The team travels to constituencies to oversee implementation; and  They also develop knowledge products to aid MPs in their development agendas.

The Swaniti Idea

Rwitwika completed her undergraduate degree in Political Sciences and Economics from Wake Forest University and her Masters‟ in Public Policy from Harvard University. Rwitwika says, “Back in 2009, as a student in graduate school, I was excited to watch the general elections. My friends and I started talking about the electoral process and how so many of us were keen to contribute to strengthening governance in India. There were too few channels of entry for young Indians to work with elected officials in supporting them with governance.” The bureaucrats, who don‟t have any direct connect with constituents, have been the ones expected to support the elected representatives. Thus, Swaniti was founded as a project in 2009.

Rwitwika worked at the World Bank in the Washington DC office and UNFPA in the Delhi office before restarting Swaniti as a full-fledged non-profit organisation in 2012. Today, with a core team of 22 members, Swaniti is supported primarily by high net worth individuals and foundations. Some of their benefactors include the Tata Trust, Azim Premji Philanthropic Initiatives and Rohini Nilekani.

45

The Impact

The Swaniti team has worked with the MP from Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh to deliver skills development programmes, and with the MP from Kendrapara in Odisha to launch mobile health vans. Leveraging the MPs‟ authority allows for faster implementation and smoother transition to long-term governmental solutions for socio-economic challenges. The result is upliftment of those at the base of the socio-economic pyramid.

Rwitwika says that her team diligently tracks programmes to learn and improve while also assessing the programme‟s impact. Their work through more than 100 MPs has positively impacted at least 65,000 lives. Additionally, their work in 15 MLA constituencies has improved 7,000 lives. They have worked with 4 CM’s offices to initiate or accelerate developmental programmes worth Rs 70 crore.

Another example is their programme in Barrakpore, West Bengal, where MP Dinesh Trivedi reached out to the Swaniti team to convey his concern about the dismal health conditions of workers in jute mills factories. Swaniti helped improve work conditions for these workers and initiated a policy change.

Indian Women Parliamentarians’ Forum (IWPF)

Swaniti has initiated the Indian Women Parliamentarians‟ Forum (IWPF) to bring together women leaders from different parties and regions with the goal of fostering healthy discussions and debates around women‟s issues. It aims to leverage the experience of women working in the public space to build an environment of mentorship amongst female Parliamentarians and support for future women leaders.

Rwitwika explains: In 1967, for every woman MP, there were one crore female citizens, whereas in 2014, that ratio had grown to one woman MP for every 10 crore female citizens. As women’s issues continue to receive tremendous attention, it is important for Women Parliamentarians to form a united forum and discuss critical issues.

46

Setu Bharatam Bridging Infrastructural Gaps (Published in the Swaniti Blog)

Level crossings constitute high-risk spots for the Indian Railways. As of May 2015, there are 18,785 manned and 11,563 unmanned level crossings in the country. The intersection of two different infrastructure networks during their normal operations results in increased chances of loss to life and property. In addition, these accidents also create a drag in the limiting line capacity of trains leading to increased costs for operation and maintenance of the Railways. An estimated 5% trains lose punctuality on account of non-closure of safety gates at crossings in time. In 2012, the Kakodkar Committee Review strongly recommended elimination of all level crossings within 5 years. The expenditure for undertaking such a massive project, the Report said, would be recovered due to savings through improved train operations.

In India, nearly half of all train accidents occur at level crossings. Out of 54 such incidents in 2014-15, 48 accidents took place at unmanned level crossings which can be attributed to the negligence of road users. While in most cases the road users are the casualty, sometimes heavy road vehicles can present a risk to trains as well. More than 50% of fatalities and a quarter of all injuries sustained by passengers, railway employees and others, due to train accidents occurred at level crossings.

Train Accidents (2014-15)

Fatalities Injuries

300 265

200 161 104 106 100 58 15 12 12 0 Collisions Derailments Level Crossing Accidents Miscellaneous

The Indian Railways has been working on achieving a „zero accident‟ railway system in the country. In 2015-16, 1000 unmanned level crossings were eliminated in areas where road traffic was limited or by merging nearby crossings by constructing connecting roads. Over the last 4 years a large number of unmanned crossings have been closed down primarily in the states of Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. The details are as follows: Year Elimination of Unmanned Level Crossings by Closure/Merger Manning Railway Over Bridges/ Total Railway Under Bridges 2012-13 511 463 189 1163 2013-14 406 325 371 1102 2014-15 325 427 396 1148 2015-16 (upto Jan 2016 244 221 319 784

47

To complement these efforts, the government launched the Setu Bharatam programme in March 2016 with the aim of making all National Highways free of railway crossings by 2019. In line with the recommendations of the Kakodkar Committee, it has allocated Rs. 50,800 crore to bring in necessary safety measures by eliminating manned and unmanned level crossings. The project has 2 components:

1. 208 Railway Over Bridges (ROBs)/ Railway Under Bridges (RUBs) to be built at level crossings at a cost of Rs. 20,800 crore 2. 1500 old bridges to be improved by replacement/ widening/ strengthening in a phased manner at a cost of Rs. 30,000 crore

Maximum ROBs/RUBs will be constructed in Andhra Pradesh, followed by West Bengal and Bihar. Detailed Project Reports have been submitted for 73 ROBs which were to be sanctioned within the financial year 2015-16. The Ministry of Railways has also requested the Ministry of Rural Development to include the work building ROBs/RUBs in the illustrative list of works under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has also established an Indian Bridge Management System (IBMS) at the Indian Academy for Highway Engineer in Noida, U.P. The aim is to carry out a survey of conditions survey and inventorization of all bridges on National Highways. Some of the states in which a large number of ROBs/RUBs will be constructed are as follows:

State Number of ROBs State Number of ROBs Andhra Pradesh 33 Jharkhand 11 West Bengal 22 Haryana 10 Bihar 20 Punjab 10 Karnataka 17 Rajasthan 9 Maharashtra 12 Tamil Nadu 9 Assam 12 Gujarat 8

It will require a streamlined decision-making and project management system to realize the aim of 100% elimination of all manned and unmanned level crossings in the country. Setu Bharatam is a welcome step towards achieving this goal.

48

Weekly Policy Updates

49

About Weekly Policy Updates

Weekly Policy Updates as a product was first released in the month of April, 2015. The idea behind starting it was to keep the elected officials updated on policy development by providing them crisp information. This initiative of ours has been recognized by many MPs during our interactions with them.

This section includes the key policy initiatives which were announced in the month of March. These included developments in Railways, LPG Access and Skill development, amongst others. The Setu Bharatam programme was launched to make all National Highways free of level crossings by 2019. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs also approved the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana - Scheme for Providing Free LPG connections to Women from BPL Households. The month of March also saw further developments with the Cabinet approving the Stand up India Scheme to promote women and SC/ST entrepreneurs and setting up of the South Asia Regional Training and Technical Assistance Center (SARTTAC) in New Delhi.

Weekly policy updates sent out to elected representatives have been summarized in subsequent pages.

50

February 27th – March 4th (Week 1)

1. Launch of Setu Bharatam Program

 The Prime Minister launched the Setu Bharatam programme for building bridges for safe and seamless travel on National Highways, on 4th March, 2016. The Setu Bharatam programme aims to make all National Highways free of railway level crossings by 2019, for which 208 Railway Over Bridges (ROB)/Railway Under Bridges (RUB) will be built at the level crossings at a cost of Rs. 20,800 crore.  About 1500 old and worn down bridges will also be improved by replacement/ widening/ strengthening in a phased manner at a cost of about Rs. 30,000 crore.  The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has also established an Indian Bridge Management System (IBMS) at the Indian Academy for Highway Engineer in Noida, U.P. The aim is to carry out conditions survey and inventorization of all bridges on National Highways in India by using Mobile Inspection Units. 11 consultancy firms have been appointed for this purpose.

2. New measures to improve performance of Tribal Welfare schemes

 The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs has said that his Ministry will initiate new measures to ensure that money allotted to states under various tribal welfare schemes reaches the actual beneficiaries. The officials from National Commission for Scheduled Tribes and Tribal Affairs Ministry will visit various remote areas to personally ascertain the benefits accrued to tribals. The Minister said some independent agencies will also be involved in this task.  The Tribal Affairs Minister also informed that post-matric scholarship for ST students will be released through DBT mode to ensure transparency and fast delivery.  The Ministry has recognised 14 NGOs as Established Voluntary Agencies (EVAs) out of more than 200 NGOs. A simplified sanctioning procedure is being envisaged for grants in aid to these EVAs.

3. LPG connection for women member of poor households

 Finance Minister has announced the provision of LPG connections to women members of poor households. Rs 2000 crore has been set aside in the Union Budget 2016-17 for the same.  The Finance Minister said this will benefit about 1.5 Crore households below the poverty line in 2016-17. The scheme will be continued for at least two more years to cover a total of 5 crore BPL households.  This will ensure universal coverage of cooking gas in the country, the Minister added. This measure will empower women and protect their health. It will reduce drudgery and the time spent on cooking. It will also provide employment for rural youth in the supply chain of cooking gas.

51

March 5th – March 11th (Week 2)

1. Approval of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwal Yojana – Scheme for providing free LPG connections to women from BPL Households

 Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana - Scheme for Providing Free LPG connections to Women from BPL Households. Under the scheme, Rs 8000 crore has been earmarked for providing five crore LPG connections to BPL households.  The Scheme provides a financial support of Rs 1600 for each LPG connection to the BPL households.The identification of eligible BPL families will be made in consultation with the State Governments and the Union Territories. This Scheme would be implemented over three years, namely, the FY 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19.  This is the first time in the history of the country that the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas would implement a welfare scheme benefitting crore of women belonging to the poorest households.

2. Approval of Stand Up scheme

 The Cabinet has approved the “Stand Up India Scheme” to promote entrepreneurship among Scheduled Caste/Schedule Tribe and Women.  The schemes provides for composite loans by banks between Rs. 10 lakh and up to Rs. 100 lakh for setting up a new enterprise in the non-farm sector. These loans would be eligible for refinance and credit guarantee cover.  A credit guarantee fund of Rs. 5,000 crore for providing guarantee cover for loans under Stand Up India in next five years has been approved. Provision of initial capital of Rs. 500 crore to the corpus in FY 2016-17 has been made.

3. Launch of Mallika-e-Haat, an online marketing platform for women

 Minister of Women and Child Development has launched Mahila-e-Haat, an online marketing platform for women. Mahila e-Haat is a unique online platform where participants can display their products. It is an initiative for women across the country as a part of „Digital India‟ and „Stand Up India‟ initiatives of Prime Minister.  Mahila E-Haat is an initiative for meeting aspirations and need of women entrepreneurs which will leverage technology for showcasing products made/manufactured/sold by women entrepreneurs. They can even showcase those services being provided by them which reflect creative potential e.g. tailoring. This unique e-platform will strengthen the socio-economic empowerment of women as it will mobilize and provide better avenues to them.

52

 More than 10000 Self Help Groups (SHGs) and 1.25 Lakh women beneficiaries would be benefited from the day of launch of the site itself. Participation in e-Haat is open to all Indian women citizens more than 18 years of age and women SHGs desiring for marketing their legal products/services after indemnifying RMK from any or all acts of transaction. March 12th – March 18th (Week 3)

1. Launch of web portal on coal allocation and monitoring system

 Ministry of Power, Coal New and Renewable Energy, launched a Web Portal for distribution of coal by State Nominated Agencies (SNA) on 17th March, 2016.  The Web portal would provide small and medium consumers access to information about SNAs, availability, booking/supply distribution of coal in public domain. The portal also offers facility of online registration to consumers.  The web portal would also provide monitoring of sales margins of SNAs and platform to the consumers for feedback.

2. Setting up South Asia Regional Training and Technical Assistance Center (SARTTAC)

 Union Finance Ministry and International Monetary Fund (IMF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish the South Asia Regional Training and Technical Assistance Center (SARTTAC) in New Delhi. The centre is expected to become the focal point for planning, coordination, and implementation of the IMF‟s capacity development activities in the region on a wide range of areas, including macroeconomic and fiscal management, monetary operations, financial sector regulation and supervision, and macroeconomic statistics.  The Center will help address existing training needs and respond to the demand for IMF training in India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, while bringing the region‟s training volume on par with those of other regions.  SARTTAC will offer courses and seminars for policymakers and other government agencies from the six aforementioned countries. Funding will come from contributions by Regional Member countries and Development Partners.

3. Launch of new initiatives by Ministry of Railways

 Ministry of Railways has launched four initiatives namely - (I) Extension of e-Catering services from existing 45 large Railway stations to all 408 A-1 and „A‟ class Railway Stations (II) Launch of E-ticket booking facility 53

for accredited Journalists on concessional Passes (III) Traffic Rationalization – Policy permitting 2-point loading in BCN wagons and increasing scope of mini-rake facility from 400 km to 600 km in both BCN and BCNHL wagons and (IV) Commencement of Pilot Study on introduction of Accrual Accounting and Upgraded costing system at Rail Coach Factory, Kapurthala.  Under the scheme for E-Catering, travelling passengers would be able to order food of their choice from leading private caterers at designated 408 major railway stations. This will include food prepared by women at home. The pilot study on introduction of accrual accounting would help determine the impact and feasibility of accrual accounting system in Indian railways.

54

Upcoming...

In Our Next Edition, grab hold of the following:

1. Tamra Patra

 Occupational Safety and Health  Electricity Sector and Reforms  Rural Roads

2. Data and Democracy

 How fast are we progressing on the IMR  State of Infrastructure in India’s Major Cities

3. Research Support and Engagement with Honorable MPs

 Human Development in Nandurbar District

4. Weekly Policy Updates from April, 2016

55

56

57

Swaniti Initiative 11/11, Sarv Priya Vihar, New Delhi-110016 Phone: +91 8130092262 Email: [email protected] Website: www.swaniti.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/swanitiinitiative Twitter: @Swaniti

Copyright © 2016 Swaniti Initiative. All Rights Reserved.