GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS

(DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS)

RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO- 4159

ANSWERED ON 07/04/2022

REVENUE FROM BUDDH INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT 

4159. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR

Will the Minister of YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS be pleased to state:-

(a) the revenue generated by Buddh International Circuit based in Noida during the last three years, and whether it is running in profit, the details thereof;

(b) whether India is planning to bid for an F1 event in the coming future, if so, the details thereof; and

(c) whether Government is planning to reconsider the entertainment tax that is levied on such sports, if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF YOUTH AFFAIRS & SPORTS

(SHRI ANURAG SINGH THAKUR)

     (a) As per the information provided by Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI), the revenue generated by Buddh International Circuit, Noida during the last three financial years is around Rs. 19.20 crores. FMSCI has further informed that the Circuit is not running in profit.

(b) This Ministry has not received any specific proposal from FMSCI for conduct of F1

(c) As per Entry 62 in List II of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution “Taxes on Entertainments and Amusements to the extent levied and collected by a Panchayat or a Municipality or a Regional Council or a District Council” are purely State The Central Government has no role in levy of entertainment tax in GST regime.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS

(DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS)

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4158

ANSWERED ON 07.04.2022

SUPPORT TO CHESS IN THE COUNTRY

4158 SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS be pleased to state:

(a) Measures taken by Government to support chess in the country since India is considered to be the inventor of the game, if so, the details in this regard;

(b) The number of academies created in India to nurture young talent and the amount dedicated for the development/promotion of the game, the details thereof; and

(c) Whether Government is Considering to introduce chess as part of the school curriculum like it has been done in Russia, if so the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS

(SHRI ANURAG SINGH THAKUR)

          (a) The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has been recognised as the National Sports Federation (NSF) for the development and promotion of Chess sport in India. The Government supplements the efforts of the NSFs by providing financial assistance under the Scheme of Assistance to NSFs for organizing coaching camps, national/ international events, participation in international events abroad, purchase of equipment, etc.

The budget approved in the last three years for the discipline of Chess under the Scheme of Assistance to NSFs is as follows:

(In ₹ Crore)

Further, the Government provides financial assistance to meritorious sportspersons, including Chess players, under the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) for personalized training/coaching under national /international coaches, participation in international tournaments held in India and abroad, purchase of sports equipment, etc.Under the Scheme of Human Resources Development in Sports (HRDS), funds have been released to the AICF to conduct FIDE Arbiter Seminar, Trainers Seminar, FIDE Arbiter Refresher Course, etc. to enhance the ability of technical personnel like coaches&judges.

(b) The AICF has informed that there are more than 3000 chess academies in India which are run by private entities.

(c) No such proposal is under

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.4075

(TO BE ANSWERED ON 07.04.2022)

REGIONAL PROGRAMMES IN DD KISAN

4075. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING be pleased to state:

(a) the number of interactive programmes which have been created by DD Kisan for the benefit of farmers, the details thereof;

(b) the number of regional languages covered under these programmes across the country, the details thereof; and

(c) the number of DTH Set-Top Boxes (STBs) procured for remote, tribal, and Left Wing Extremists (LWE) areas during the last one year, the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING; AND MINISTER OF YOUTH AFFAIRS & SPORTS

(SHRI ANURAG SINGH THAKUR)

      (a) Prasar Bharati carries various interactive programmes on its “DD Kisan” channel, such as:

1. Hello Kisan: A one hour Live phone- in programme telecast five days in a week on core agriculture.
2. Chaupal Charcha:   A    field    based    interactive   programme    on    key Government Schemes, telecast five days in a week.
3.  Swastha Kisan: A one hour Live Phone- in weekly programme on farmer’s
4. Apana Pashuchikitsak: A half an hour Live phone-in weekly programme on livestock.
5. Vichaar Vimarsh: A one hour weekly programme with invited experts and

In addition, the following field based programmes are also being carried on DD Kisan Channel:

1. Krishi Darshan: The field based stories on technologies in agriculture, major events and success stories, telecast five days a week.
2. Gaon Kisan: These are field based stories on Animal Husbandry and Agripreneurs, telecast five days a week.

(b) The programme “Krishi Darshan” is being telecast on 20 DD Channels in 12 languages including Hindi, as per annexure.

(c) No such procurement has been made during the last one year. However, the Set-Top boxes are easily available in open market for the consumers.

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ANNEXURE AS REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF THE RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 4075 FOR ANSWER ON 07.04.2022

Annexure

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE & EMPOWERMENT

RAJYA SABHA

STARRED QUESTION NO -365

ANSWERED ON – 06/04/2022

REHABILITATION OF MANUAL SCAVENGERS

365. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR

Will the Minister of SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) how many manual scavengers have died in the last three years, the details thereof, State-wise:

(b) how many manual scavengers have been identified for rehabilitation in the last three

years, the details thereof, State-wise;

(c) how much amount out of 100 crore dedicated for rehabilitati on have been spent for the current year, the details thereof; and

(d) the definition of a manual scavenger and the number of manual scavengers across the country, the details thereof?

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ANSWER

MINISTER OF SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMEN

(DR. VIRENDRA KUMAR)

    (a) to (d) A statement is laid on the Table of the House

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Statement referred in reply to parts (a) to (d) of the Rajya Sabha Starred Question No.365 for answer on 06.04.2022 raised by Shri Mahesh Poddar regarding “Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers”.

(a) There is no report of deaths due to manual scavenging. However, 161 persons have died due to accidents while undertaking hazardous clcaning of sewer and septic tanks during the last three years. Details are given at Annexure-I.

(b) As per reports no person is currently engaged in manual scavenging. However two surveys have been conducted in 2013 and 2018 to identify manual scavengers. State-wise details of mamual scavengers identified during these surveys is given at Annexure-II.

Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has also launched a mobile app “Swachhata Abhiyaan” on 24.12.2020 to capture the data of still existing insanitary latrines and manual scavengers if any associated with them. Any person can upload the data of insanitary latrines and manual scavengers on the mobile app. Thereafter, the data is verificd by the concerned district administration. However, not a single insanitary latrine has been confirmed so far.

(c) The Revised Estimate of budget under the Self Employment Scheme for Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers (SRMS) for 2021-22 is Rs 43.31 Crore against which an amoumt of Rs 39 Crore has been released.

(d) As per Section 2 (1) (g) of the Probibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, (MS Act 2013), the definition of maual scavemger is as follows:-

“Manual Scavenger means a person engaged or employed by an individual or a local authority or a public or private agency, for manually cleaning, carrying, disposing off, or otherwise handling in any manner, human excreta in an insanitary latrine or in an open drain or pit into which the human excreta from insanitary latrines is disposed off, or on a railway track or in such ather spaces or premises, as the Central Government or a State Government may notify, before the excreta fully decomposes in such manner as may be prescribed, and the expression “manual scavenging” shall be construed accordingly.”

58098 eligible manual scavengers have been identified during the surveys conducted in the years 2013 and 2018.

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Annexure-I

Annexure-I referred in reply to part (a) of the Rajya Sabha starred Question No. 365 for answer on 06.04.2022 regarding Rehabilitation of manual scavengers.

Year-wise and State-wise details of death of persons in sewars and septic tanks in last three years.

Annexure-II

Annexure-II referred in reply to part (b) of the Rajya Sabha starred Question No. 365 for answer on 06.04.2022 regarding Rehabilitation of Manual Scavengers.

State wise number of manual scavengers identified

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE & EMPOWERMENT

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO – 3969

ANSWERED ON – 06/04/2022

DRUG DE-ADDICTION CENTRES IN THE COUNTRY

3969. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR

will the Minister of SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT be pleased to state:-

(a) the plans of Government against drug and alcohol addiction in the country;

(b) the list of de-addiction centres across the country, State-wise;

(c) whether Government plans to construct more in the coming years, if so, the details thereof;

(d) the financial allocation on this since 2017 and how much Government has allocated for this in the current year; and

(e) whether Government is taking the help of NGOs in providing de-addiction care in these centres, if so, the total number of persons employed, State-wise?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT

(SHRI A. NARAYANASWAMY)

(a) Minisiry of Social Justice and Empowerment has formulated and implementecd National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) under which the Government is taking a sustained and coordinated action for arresting the problem of substance abuse among the youth.

i. Ministry launched Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) in 272 most vulnerable districts under which a massive community outreach is being done through more than 8000 youth volunteers. Till now through the various activities undertaken on-ground 2.4+ Crore people reached out so far, out of which more than 92 lakh youth and 29.6 lakh women have actively participated in the activities of the Abhiyaan and spreading on-ground the message against substance abuse. Around 4,000 Yuva Mandals, NYKS & NSS Volunteers, Youth Clubs have also been associated with the Abhiyaan. Across the country till now, 13+ lakh students have been reached with events, competitions and sessions organized in 6000+ schools.

ii. Social media has effectively been utilized to spread the message of the NMBA online by creating handles on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram and sharing daily updates on them. A Android based mobile Apptication has been developed to capture the data of activities happening on ground on a real-time basis by the districts amd master volunteers. This App has been placed on thc Google Play Store.

iii. 355 Integrated Rehabilitation Centres for Addicts (IRCAs) are supported by the Ministry. These IRCAs not only provide for treating the drug victims, but also give services of preventive education, awareness generation, motivational counselling, detoxificaion/de-addiction, after care and re-integration into the social mainstream. Ministry also provided support to special de-addiction centre for women and children.

iv. 53 Comunuity based Peer led Intervention (CPLI) Centres are supported by the Ministry. These CPLIs focus on vulnerable and at risk children and adolescents. Under this, peer educators engage children for awareness generation and life skill activities.

v. 78 Outreach and Drop In Centres (ODICs) are supported by the Ministry. These ODICs provide safe and secure space of treatment and rehabilitation for substance users, with provision of screening, assessment and counselling and thereafter provide referral and linkage to treatment and rehabilitation services for substance dependence.

vi. Ministry also supports setting up of 36 Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs) in some Government hospitals, which is being implemented through AIIMS, New Delhi.

vii. The Ministry is also providing financial support for setting up of District De-Addiction Centre (DDAC) in various districts. These DDACs would provide comprehensive facilities hitherto being provided by IRCA, ODIC & CPLI together. The main focus of the DDAC is early prevention, education, demand reduction, identification, treatment and rehabilitation services of vulnenable individuals or individuals affected by substance use disorders.

viii. The Ministry supported GlA institutions providing counselling, treatment & rehabilitation services have been geo-tagged for case of access.

ix. A Toll-free Helpline for de-addiction, 14446 is being maintained by the Ministy for providing primary counselling and immediate assistance to the persons seeking help through this helpline.

x. Ministry through its autonomous body National Institute of Social Defence (NISD) and other collaborating agencies like SCERTs, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan etc. provides for regular awareness generation and sensitization sessions for all stakeholders including students, teachers, parents

(b) The State-wise number of de-addiction centres across the Country is as Annexure-A.

(c) The Ministry under the scheme of NAPDDR has proposed to open 290 district de-addiction centres across the country in next five years.

(d) The revised allocation since year 2017-18 to financial year 2021-22 are as under :-

(e) The Ministry provides financial assistance to NGOs/VOs for running and maintenance of IRCAs, ODICs and CPLIs under the scheme of NAPDDR. As per guideline of the Scheme, 15 Staffs are for 15 bedded IRCA Centre, 06 Staffs are for ODIC projects and 23 Staffs are for CPLI projects have been sanctioned. The State-wise number of de-addiction centres, being financially supported by this Ministry, is attached at Annexure – A.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3888

TO BE ANSWERED ON THE 06TH APRIL, 2022/ CHAITRA 16, 1944 (SAKA)

ATTACK ON MINORITIES IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

3888. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether there has been an increase in the killing of minorities by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, if so, the details thereof during the last five years;

(b) whether there is a mechanism to provide monetary compensation to victims of such terror incidents, if so, the details thereof; and

(c) what measures have been taken by Government to ensure safety of minorities in the valley, the details thereof?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI NITYANAND RAI)

      (a) : The number of persons belonging to minority communities who lost their lives in the terrorist related incidents in Jammu and Kashmir during the last five years is tabulated as under:

(b) : An ex-gratia of 5 lakhs is given under the scheme “Central Scheme for Assistance to Civilian Victims/Family of Victims of Terrorist

/Communal/ LWE Violence and Cross Border Firing and Mine/IED Blasts on Indian Territory”. In addition, Rs.1 lakh is paid to the NoKs of civilians killed in militancy related violence under the existing scheme of Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

(c) The Government has taken several measures to ensure safety of minorities in the valley. These include a robust security and intelligence grid, group security in the form of static guards, day & night area domination, round the clock checking at Nakas, patrolling is being carried out in the areas where the minorities reside besides proactive operations against terrorists.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION No. 3765

TO BE ANSWERED ON 5^th April, 2022

SUPPORT FOR PATIENTS OF RARE DISEASES

3765     SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:

(a) the number of lives that have been lost because of rare diseases in the country during the last five years;

(b) the amount of money that has been collected from crowdfunding to support such patients and the details thereof; and

(c) the support extended under Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi during the last three years and the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(DR. BHARATI PRAVIN PAWAR)

        (a) As per data available on the National Registry of Rare and Other Inherited Disorders (NRROID), out of total 5850 patients enrolled from November 2019 onwards, 251 patients have died as on date.

(b) The amount of money that has been collected as on date from crowdfunding to support such patients is Rs. 1,18,016 (Rupees One Lakh Eighteen Thousand Sixteen Only).

(c) The total amount released by the Government for treatment of Rare Disease Patients during the last three years, is as follows:

1. Year 2019-20 – 1.30 Crore
2. Year 2020-21 – 10 Crore
3. Year 2021-22 – 03.15 Crore

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH RESEARCH

RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION No. 3764

TO BE ANSWERED ON 05^TH APRIL, 2022

FORCED OR ILLEGAL SURROGACY CASES IN THE COUNTRY

3764. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:

(a) how many illegal cases of surrogacy have been reported in the country during the last three years and the details thereof;

(b) whether Government has reported cases of forced surrogacy by family members, if so, the number of such reported cases, and the details thereof; and

(c) the total number of reported surrogacy cases in the country during the last three years and the details thereof, State-wise?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE

(DR. BHARATI PRAVIN PAWAR)

(a) to (c): No such data is centrally maintained.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS

RAJYA SABHA

UN-STARRED QUESTION NO. 3714

ANSWERED ON TUESDAY, APRIL 05, 2022

MEASURES AGAINST PONZI SCHEMES QUESTION

3714. Shri Mahesh Poddar:

Will the Minister of Corporate Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) the number of Ponzi schemes which have been identified in the last three years and what has been the conviction rate, the details thereof;

(b) the quantum of money which was lost through these schemes and what has been the status of recovery in the last three years, the details thereof; and

(c) the measures being taken by Government to educate and make aware the population about the same, the details thereof?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF STATISTICS AND PROGRAMME IMPLEMENTATION; MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF PLANNING: AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CORPRATE AFFAIRS.

(RAO INDERJIT SINGH)

(a)&(b): Ponzi schemes are banned under Prize Chit and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act, 1978 and as per the said Act, State Government is the Enforcement Agency. Although the term “Ponzi Schemes” is not defined under the Companies Act, 2013 ( the Act) Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has ordered and assigned investigation into the affairs of the number of companies which are allegedly involved in Ponzi/Multi-Level Marketing/Chit Fund Activities. During the last three years 8 cases involving 84 companies have been assigned to Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO).

(c): MCA has taken various measures for investors awareness Programmes, details are as under:

As a part of the mandate under section 125 (3) of the Companies Act 2013, Investors Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) Authority in collaboration with Partner Institutes, organizes Investor Awareness Programmes across the country. In Rural areas through Common Service Centers, in Semi-Urban Areas through Nehru Yuva Kendra & India Post Payments Bank including Post Offices and in Urban areas through Professional Institutes viz. Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, Institute of Company Secretaries of India, Institute of Cost Accountants of India.

Till date more than 62,678 such programs across 604 Districts of 30 States & Union territories by engaging 29,19,455 citizens have been conducted. The primary focus of these programmes is to make the participants aware of Do’s and Don’t while making any Investment and to sensitize them about various fraudulent and Ponzi Schemes. In addition, various awareness campaigns are run on Doordarshan and All India Radio including awareness scroll messages, jingles, talk shows etc. from time to time

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF MINES

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3635

ANSWERED ON 04.04.2022

SUPPORT UNDER PMKKKY 

3635. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to State:

(a) the total number of beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) in the last three years, the State-wise details thereof;

(b) the number of original inhabitants who have been resettled under this scheme in the last three years and the details thereof; and

(c) the amount of money collected and subsequently spent from the District Mineral Foundation, and on what areas have the same been spent and the State-wise details thereof especially for Jharkhand?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF MINES, COAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(SHRI PRALHAD JOSHI)

(a) & (b): Section 9 B of the MMDR Act, 1957 empowers the State Government to establish District Mineral Foundation Trust in all the Districts affected by mining for the benefit of the people and areas affected by mining activities. Funds under DMF are accrued at the concerned districts and are utilised by the DMF as per the guidelines for implementation of projects under PMKKKY. Hence, information regarding total number of beneficiaries and the number of original inhabitants who have been resettled under this scheme is maintained by the respective district authorities.

(c): As per PMKKKY guidelines issued vide order dated 16.09.2015, the amount collected under DMF can be spent in areas affected by mining. The affected areas have been divided into two categories viz. (i) directly affected area; and (ii) indirectly affected area. Directly affected areas are those areas where direct mining-related operations such as excavation, mining, blasting, beneficiation and waste disposal (overburdened dumps, tailing ponds, transport corridors etc.), etc. are taken up and indirectly affected areas are those areas where local population is adversely affected on account of economic, social and environmental consequences of mining-related operations. Further, state wise information on the amount collected and amount spent under DMF has been provided at Annexure-I.

                                                               ****                          Annexure – I

DMF Fund Status – till February 2022

^@ Data till Jan 2022

* Data till Dec 2021

^$ Data till May 2021

^ Data till Aug 2021

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF MINES

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3634

ANSWERED ON 04.04.2022

DIAMOND EXTRACTION IN THE COUNTRY

3634. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of MINES be pleased to state:

(a) the details of untapped diamond reserve capacity in the country, State-wise;

(b)the details of measures taken by Government to increase extraction of the same; and

(c) the details of local employment generated from such extractions, State-wise?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF MINES, COAL AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

(SHRI PRALHAD JOSHI)

        (c) : As per National Mineral Inventory, the State wise details of reserves and remaining resources of Diamond (in both freehold and lease hold area) in the country are as follows:

(Unit: In Carats)

(b) : The government has taken various steps to increase extraction of minerals including diamond in the country. The Mines and Minerals Development & Regulation Act [MMDR] has been comprehensively amended through MMDR Amendment Act 2015 and Mineral Laws Amendment Act, 2020 to boost mineral sector, ease of doing business, enhanced exploration and exploitation, etc. In order to give further impetus to mineral production, the Central Government has further amended the MMDR Act in 2021 and undertaken other Some of the major reforms brought in 2021 are as under:

1. Mineral Blocks for Composite Licence can be auctioned at G4 level of exploration instead of G3 level as per the earlier standard.
2. Private entities may be notified under Section 4(1) of the MMDR Act for conducting

Since the enactment of MMDR Act in 2015, GSI has handed over one G3 report and five G4 reports of Diamond to the State Government for auctioning. The State-wise and Block-wise details are as follows:

(c) The State-wise production and average daily employment in the Diamond mines, as per returns submitted under Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 2017, from 2018-19 to 2020-21, are as follows:

(P): Provisional Data

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF JAL SHAKTI,

DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES, RIVER DEVELOPMENT & GANGA REJUVENATION

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3605

ANSWERED ON 04.04.2022

ESTABLISHMENT OF WATER CLEANING UNITS UNDER NMCG

3605. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR

Will the Minister of JAL SHAKTI be pleased to state:

(a) the number of water cleaning units established under National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) during the last five years and the details thereof, State-wise;

(b) how much of the allocated funds have been utilized under Clean Ganga programme during the last three years and the details thereof;

(c) whether Government has conducted any independent assessment to ascertain quality of water in Ganga across different States and, if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and

(d) how does Government propose to tackle Arsenic pollution in drinking water and what measures have been taken to ensure that ‘Nal Se Jal’ drinking water would be Arsenic free?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE FOR JAL SHAKTI

(SHRI BISHWESWAR TUDU)

         (a) Under Namami Gange Programme, so far 160 sewerage infrastructure projects have been taken up with a sanctioned cost of Rs.24,633.01 crore for creation and rehabilitation of 4930 Million Litres per Day (MLD) of Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) capacity and laying of 5,227 km of sewerage network, out of this 78 projects have been completed resulting in creation and rehabilitation of 1,169 MLD of STP capacity and laying of 3,908 km sewerage network. Details of these projects which helps in cleaning of river Ganga and its tributaries is enclosed in Annexure-I and the list of treatment plant established in the last 5 years state wise is given in Annexure-II.

On the Ganga main stem towns (97 towns), projects have been taken up to create 3341 MLD sewerage treatment capacity against generation of 2953 MLD (in 2016). The STP capacity in the main stem have increased from 1305 MLD (2014) to 2407 MLD (March 22). 42 projects have been taken up in towns located along river Yamuna, Hindon, Kali (East and West), Ramganga, Saryu, Gomti, Chambal, Rispana-Bindal, Dhela, Kharkai, Son, Kosi, Damodar, Banka and Barakar.

(b) The final estimates and funds released by Government of India and subsequently disbursed/released by National Mission for Clean Ganga during the last three financial years i.e. FY 2018-19, 2019-20, 2020-21 and for the financial year 2021-22 till 28^th February, 2022 are tabulated below:-

(* upto 28^th February, 2022) (** which includes funds carried- forward from previous year)

(c) Under the Namami Gange Programme, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is carrying out water quality assessment of the River Ganga at 97 locations in 5 main stem States through the respective State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).

As per CPCB data for 2021, the observed water quality of river Ganga indicates that Dissolved Oxygen (DO), which is an indicator of river health has been found to be within acceptable limits of notified primary bathing water quality criteria and is satisfactory to support the ecosystem of the river for almost the entire stretch of the river Ganga. As per CPCB report of 2018, there were four polluted stretches on main stem of river Ganga (one stretch in Priority III, two stretch in priority IV and one stretch under priority V, with priority I being most polluted. With the various interventions taken up under the Namami Gange Programme, the water quality of river Ganga has remarkably improved across various erstwhile polluted stretches of river Ganga. Now, as per the report of 2021, none of the Ganga Stretches are in priority category I to IV and only two stretches are in Category V with Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) ranging between 3-6 mg/l as per CPCB categorization of polluted stretch. As per comparison of median data of water quality parameters viz., DO, BOD and FC of year 2014 and 2021; DO (Median) has improved at 31 locations; BOD at 46 locations and FC at 23 locations, respectively.

The definition of various priority categories is given below:

(d) Steps taken by the Government to control ground water pollution including Arsenic contamination are detailed below:

To make provision of potable tap water supply in adequate quantity, of prescribed quality and on regular & long-term basis to every rural household by 2024, since August, 2019, Government of India in partnership with States, is implementing Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) – Har Ghar Jal. Under JJM, while allocating the funds to States/ UTs, 10% weightage is given to the population residing in habitations affected by chemical contaminants including Arsenic.

Since, planning, implementation and commissioning of piped water supply schemes based on a safe water source takes time, purely as an interim measure, States/ UTs have been advised to install community water purification plants (CWPPs) especially in Arsenic and Fluoride affected habitations to provide potable water to every household at the rate of 8–10 litre per capita per day (lpcd) to meet their drinking and cooking requirements.

Under Jal Jeevan Mission, as per existing guidelines, IS 10500 is to be adopted for ensuring safe drinking water supply and States/ UTs have been advised to carry out water quality testing of drinking water sources on regular basis.

To enable States/ UTs to test water samples for water quality, and for sample collection, reporting, monitoring and surveillance of drinking water sources, an online JJM – Water Quality Management Information System (WQMIS) portal has been developed, which is available in public domain on JJM Dashboard and can also be accessed at: https://neer.icmr.org.in/website/main.php

This portal also provides automated alerts to concerned authorities in States/ UTs, if the water sample test contaminated, to initiate remedial actions. On this portal an individual can also register his sample and choose nearby water quality testing laboratory to get the water sample tested.

To encourage water quality testing to ensure potable drinking water supply, States/ UTs have been advised to open water quality testing laboratories to general public at a nominal rate for testing of their water samples.

States/UTs have also been advised to identify and train 5 persons preferably women in each village from local community viz. ASHA workers, health workers, VWSC members, teachers, etc. to conduct water quality tests using FTKs/ bacteriological vials at village level and report the same on the portal.

Also, based on the assessment of ground water quality for the year 2020, wherever concentration of Arsenic and other Heavy Metals were found exceeding BIS Drinking Water Standards IS 10500:2012, concerned States/ UTs were requested to direct concerned State Depts. vide CPCB letter dated 17.03.2022 to take actions such as:

1. Sealing of hand pumps/ wells having contaminated ground water
2. Display sign board indicating (Not Fit for Drinking Water purposes) in vernacular

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

DEPARTMENT OF MILITARY AFFAIRS

RAJYA SABHA

STARRED QUESTION NO. 336

TO BE ANSWERED ON 4^TH APRIL, 2022

SUPPORT PROVIDED UNDER OPERATION SADBHAVANA

*336. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of Defence be pleased to state:

(a) the number of Army Goodwill Schools established under Operation Sadbhavana in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir since inception;

(b) the number of students benefitted from this scheme; and

(c) the quantum of money spent on Community Development Projects, alongwith the category of projects and the details thereof?

A N S W E R

MINISTER OF DEFENCE

(SHRI RAJNATH SINGH)

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

*****

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 336 FOR ANSWER ON 04.04.2022 REGARDING ‘SUPPORT PROVIDED UNDER OPERATION SADBHAVANA’.

(a) : Total 36 Army Goodwill/Army Goodwill Public Schools (AGS/AGPS) are being run by the Army in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, 07 AGS/AGPS are being run in Union Territory of Ladakh.

(b) : So far 30,000 students have benefitted from this scheme in Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Currently 14035 students are studying in these schemes.

(c) : An amount of Rs. 828.6 crore has been spent on Community Development Projects in respect of Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. Operation SADBHAVANA funds are being utilized for the following activities:-

1. Education
2. Human Resources/Skill Development
3. Sports
4. Health
5. National Integration
6. Infrastructure
7. Ecology & Environment

*****

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3478

ANSWERED ON 01.04.2022

REVENUE FROM COAL FREIGHT

3478. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state:

(a) the details of the pension bill that the Indian Railways foots every year;

(b)the details of revenue that is generated by the freight movement of coal; and

(c) whether the coal freight revenue is shared with the source States, if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF RAILWAYS, COMMUNICATIONS AND ELECTRONICS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

(SHRI ASHWINI VAISHNAW)

       (a) to (c): A Statement is laid on the Table of the

*****

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.3478 BY SHRI MAHESH PODDAR ANSWERED IN RAJYA SABHA ON 01.04.2022 REGARDING REVENUE FROM COAL FREIGHT

(a) : Railways’ expenditure on pension from 2016-17 to 2021-22 (upto February-2022) is as under:

(₹ in crore)

(b) : Revenue generated by Coal freight movement from 2016-17 to 2021-22 (upto February-2022) is as under :

(₹ in crore)

(c) :Revenue earned by Railways from transportation of coal is not shared with any source State. Freight revenue including those from coal transportation constitutes part of Railways’ total revenue receipts which are allocated to the Zonal Railways for day to day operational expenditure of trains, staff cost, pension expenditure of retired railway servants and for supplementing Railways’ capital expenditure.

*****

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION No. 3377 TO BE ANSWERED ON 01/04/2022

FARM LOAN WAIVERS IN THE COUNTRY

3377.  SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFAREbe pleased to state:

(a) the amount of farm loans that has been waived across the country in the last five years, the details thereof, State-wise and year-wise;

(b) whether moratorium was offered to farmers during the last two years, if so, the details thereof, the number of beneficiaries under this facility; and

(c) the measures that have been undertaken to ensure diversification of cropping patterns, the details thereof?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE

(SHRI NARENDRA SINGH TOMAR)

(a) : No farm loan waiver scheme has been implemented by the Government of India during last five years.

(b) : Reserve Bank of India (RBI) vide its circular dated 27^th March 2020 had issued guidelines to the effect that all commercial banks (including Regional Rural Banks, Small Finance Banks And Local Area Banks), Co-operative Banks, All-India Financial Institutions, And Non-Banking Financial Companies (Including Housing Finance Companies) (“lending institutions”) were permitted to grant a moratorium of three months on payment of all installments falling due between 1^stMarch, 2020 and 31^st May, 2020 in respect of all term loans (including agricultural term loans, retail and crop loans). The repayment schedule for such loans was shifted across  the  board  by  three  months  after  the  moratorium  In respect of working capital facilities sanctioned in the form of cash credit/overdraft (“CC/OD”), lending institutions were permitted to defer the recovery of interest applied in respect of all such facilities during the period from 1^st March, 2020 upto 31^st May, 2020 (“deferment”). This moratorium was further extended upto 31^st August 2020 vide RBI circular

dated 23rd May 2020.In addition, the Government had also provided benefit of 2% Interest Subvention (IS) to Banks and 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI) to farmers for the extended period of repayment of loans upto31^st August 2020 or date of actual repayment date whichever is earlier, for short terms crop loan upto Rs.3 lakh per farmer given by Banks @ 7% p.a., which had become due or would have become due between 1^stMarch, 2020 and 31^st August, 2020.

Similar decision was also taken in FY 2020-21 to extend repayment date of short term agri loans upto 30^th June, 2021 during the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic with continued benefit of 2% Interest Subvention (IS) to Banks and 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI).

(c) : The cropping pattern is dependent on various factors viz. agro-climatic condition sof the region, availability of resources, market forces, socio-economic conditions of the farmers, demand and supply of agricultural produce etc. Accordingly, Government of India has been emphasizing promotion of various crops/cropping system viz. rice, wheat, pulses, coarse cereals, nutria cereals & commercial crops under National Food Security Mission (NFSM), oilseeds under NFSM-Oilseeds, horticultural crops under Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH). The new technologies on crops/cropping pattern are demonstrated at the farmers’ field through State Department of Agriculture/ Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)/ State Agricultural Universities (SAUs)/ Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs)etc. and are creating awareness among farmers to choose appropriate crops/cropping pattern.

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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF YOUTH AFFAIRS & SPORTS

(DEPARTMENT OF SPORTS)

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3349

ANSWERD ON- 31/03/2022

PROMOTION AND TRAINING OF HOCKEY PLAYERS

3349 SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS be pleased to state:

(a) the amount of funds that are being spent on the promotion and training of hockey players in the country during the last three years, the details thereof;

(b) the number of operational stadiums in the country with artificial turf and natural grass and the number of new ones which are in the process of construction, the details thereof, State-wise;

(c) measures taken to ensure international exposure to the young talents, the details thereof; and

(d) whether Government has any scheme to support financially weak sports persons, if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS

(SHRI ANURAG SINGH THAKUR)

      (a) The amount of expenditure incurred under the Scheme of Assistance to National Sports Federations (NSFs) and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) towards promotion and training of hockey players during the last three years is as follows:-

(Rs. in crore)

Further, under Khelo India Talent Development (KITD) vertical of Khelo India Scheme, 138 Khelo India Athletes have been identified in Hockey discipline. The details of the funds released for Hockey discipline under this scheme is as under:

(Rs. in crore)

(b) The National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium (MDCNS) under Sports Authority of India (SAI) is having 3 Artificial / Synthetic Hockey Further, the details of existing Artificial Hockey turf and Grassy fields at various SAI Centres are given in Annexure.

(c) Preparation of Indian sportspersons and teams for participation in international sports events is an ongoing process, which is supported through various schemes of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and the SAI. The Central Government is supporting sportspersons through the recognised NSFs for their training, foreign exposures and competitions to enable them to participate in international sports events and enhance their chances of winning medals. Further, customised training of elite athletes is supported under TOPS.

(d) Support from the Government towards training and participation of athletes including those from weaker sections of society is provided from the Scheme of Assistance to NSFs, TOPS, Khelo India Scheme and promotional schemes of SAI. The majority of the sportspersons identified for support under the Ministry’s and SAI’s schemes, belong to rural, backward and tribal areas of the country. The identified athletes are provided support in the form of expert coaches, sports equipment, boarding & lodging, sports kit, competition exposure, etc. as per the approved norms of the Schemes.

*****

ANNEXURE REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PART (b) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3349 TO BE ANSWERED ON 31/03/2022 REGARDING PROMOTION AND TRAINING OF HOCKEY PLAYERS ASKED BY SHRI MAHESH PODDAR, HON’BLE MEMBER OF RAJYA SABHA

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF TOURISM

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3340

ANSWERED ON 31.03.2022

PROJECTS UNDER PRASHAD SCHEME 

3340. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of TOURISM be pleased to state:

(a) the number of projects that have been completed under the PRASHAD Scheme in the last three years, the details thereof, State-wise;

(b) the average time taken for the completion of the projects in the last two years, the details thereof; and

(c) the cost overrun, if any, of the delayed projects under this Scheme in the last one year, the details thereof?

ANSWER

    MINISTER OF TOURISM

    (SHRI G. KISHAN REDDY)

       (a) : Physical execution of 17 projects has been completed under PRASHAD Scheme during the last three years and the current year as per the attached details.

(b) : Approx -48 months.

(c) : The details about cost over run in the projects delayed during the last one year can be assessed only after completion of such projects.

******

ANNEXURE

STATEMENT IN REPLY TO PART (a) OF RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.3340 ANSWERED ON 31.03.2022 REGARDING PROJECTS UNDER PRASHAD SCHEME

LIST OF THE PROJECTS COMPLETED DURING THE LAST THREE YEARS AND THE CURRENT YEAR

*******

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.3254

TO BE ANSWERED ON 31.03.2022

CROSS BORDER PILGRIMAGE

3254. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of pilgrims who have gone to Pakistan and vice versa during the last five years under the Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines, 1974, the details thereof, religion-wise;

(b) the confidence-building measures that are being taken to promote cross-border travels of religious pilgrims between India and Pakistan, the details thereof; and

(c) whether it is a fact that many pilgrims vanish and do not return to their home country during these journeys, if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

[SHRI V. MURALEEDHARAN]

(a) Visits of pilgrims between India and Pakistan are covered under the ‘Bilateral Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines-1974’. Pilgrimages to 15 shrines in Pakistan and 06 shrines in India are facilitated by the Government under the Protocol. As per available information, number of pilgrims who have visited Pakistan from India and vice versa in the last five years is as follows:

(b) Government regularly liaises with Pakistan authorities to facilitate pilgrimages including arrangement for transportation, security, accommodation, medical facility etc. for the pilgrims during their visits under the above Protocol. In addition to this, Government signed an Agreement with the Government of Pakistan on 24 October 2019 for the facilitation of pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, Pakistan. The Agreement, inter alia, provides for visa-free travel of Indian pilgrims as well as Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, from India to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur on a daily basis, throughout the year.

(c) It has been reported that some Pakistani nationals belonging to minority communities in Pakistan, mainly Hindus and Sikhs, who came to India on Group Pilgrim Visa have not returned to Pakistan because of religious persecution in Pakistan.

***

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3113

TO BE ANSWERED ON THE 30TH MARCH, 2022/ CHAITRA 09, 1944 (SAKA)

VIOLENCE-RELATED DEATHS IN PRISONS

3113. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) how many violence-related incidents amongst the inmates have been reported in the prisons in the country in the last one year, the details thereof, State-wise;

(b) what measures have been taken by Government to make sure that such incidents do not take place, the details thereof; and

(c) whether Government is contemplating constructing more jails with better amenities to solve the problem of overcrowding within prisons, if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI AJAY KUMAR MISHRA)

(a) : National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) compiles prison statistics reported to it by the States and Union Territories (UTs) and publishes the same in its annual publication “Prison Statistics India”. The latest published report is of the year 2020. State/UT-wise details of number of jail breaks, clashes and firings in prisons during the year 2020 are given in Annexure.

(b) and (c): „Prisons‟/„persons detained therein‟ is a “State List” subject under Entry 4 of List II of the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India. Administration and management of prisons and prisoners is the responsibility of respective State Governments who are competent to take appropriate measures for ensuring the safety and security of inmates and for taking appropriate decisions for construction of more jails in their jurisdiction to solve the problem of overcrowding. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has also been supplementing the efforts of the State Governments and UT Administrations by issuing various advisories and guidelines on varied aspects of prison administration, including the issue of safety and security of inmates. Prison authorities have also been advised to install CCTV cameras in jails and appoint adequate number of jail staff to manage and supervise the activities of prisoners. MHA has also circulated a Model Prison Manual 2016 to all States and UTs, which has chapters on „Custodial Management‟ and „Inspection of Prisons‟, etc. The Model Prison Manual also provides guidance for the availability of a Quick Reaction Team to remain in a state of readiness to meet any emergency in all Central and District prisons.

                                                                                                                     Annexure

State/UT-wise details of number of Jail breaks, Clashes and Firing in jails

during the year 2020

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 3112

TO BE ANSWERED ON THE 30TH MARCH, 2022/ CHAITRA 09, 1944 (SAKA)

JAIL STAFF VACANCIES IN THE COUNTRY

3112. SHRI MAHESH PODDAR:

Will the Minister of HOME AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) the number of vacancies in the jail staff across the country, the details thereof, State-wise;

(b) what measures are being taken by Government in recent years to fill these vacancies, the details thereof;

(c ) how much amount is dedicated for improving prison infrastructure during the last three years and how much has been utilized, the details thereof; and

(d) how many violence-related incidents have been reported in jails across the country, the details thereof, State-wise?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS

(SHRI AJAY KUMAR MISHRA)

(a) and (b): National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) compiles prison statistics reported to it by States and Union Territories (UTs) and publishes the same in its annual publication “Prison Statistics India”. The latest published report is of the year 2020. State/UT-wise details of sanctioned, actual and vacant number of jail staff as on 31st December, 2020 are given in Annexure-I.

„Prisons‟/„persons detained therein‟ is a “State List” subject under Entry 4 of List II of the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India. Administration and management of prisons, including filling up of vacancies of Prison staff is the responsibility of respective State Governments. The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued advisories to States and UTs, advising them to make periodic assessment of the strength of all categories of prison staff and take immediate steps to fill up the vacant posts by conducting special recruitment drives.

(c) : State/UT-wise details of total budget allocated for prisons and actual expenditure during the financial years 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21 are given in Annexure II(a), II(b) and II(c) respectively.

(d) : State/UT-wise details of number of jail breaks, clashes and firings in prisons during the year 2020 are given in Annexure-III.

Annexure-I

State/UT-wise Sanctioned, Actual and Vacant number of Jail Staff as on 31^st

December, 2020

*      6 officer posts are on additional charge.

Annexure-II(a)

State/UT-wise details of total budget allocated for prisons and actual expenditure during the financial year 2018-19 ( in Crore)

‘+’ Combined data of erstwhile D&N Haveli and Daman & Diu UT ‘*’ Data of erstwhile Jammu & Kashmir State including Ladakh

Annexure-II(b)

State/UT-wise details of total budget allocated for prisons and actual expenditure during the financial year 2019-20 ( in Crore)

‘+’ Combined data of erstwhile D&N Haveli and Daman & Diu UT ‘*’ Data of erstwhile Jammu & Kashmir State including Ladakh

Annexure-II(c)

State/UT-wise details of total budget allocated for prisons and actual expenditure during the financial year 2020-21 ( in Crore)

Annexure-III

State/UT-wise details of number of Jail breaks, Clashes / Group clashes and Firing in jails during the year 2020