CHAPTER-V

 

 

NARRATIVE EXPLANATIONS OF THE FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS GIVING THE SCOPE AND OBJECTIVE OF INDIVIDUAL PROJECTS PROGRAMME/SCHEMES, THEIR ESTIMATED COST ETC. PROGRAMME CONTENT

 

                FOREST  EDUCATION  AND  WILDLIFE

 

217.      FOREST EDUCATION & TRAINING

 

               

 

ICFRE does not have any mega project costing Rs.100 crore or more.   However we are running – 212 research projects under plan and 49 new projects were initiated  in the current financial year. Some of the projects completed recently are –

 

Screening of new poplar clones developed by FRI based on wood quality parameters,

 

Computerization of Herbarium of Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, Studies on isolation and characterization of polysaccharides of abundantly available seeds of trees/shrubs, leaves, bark and exudate gums, Wood quality parameters for improving planting stock of Bambusa arundinacea, Pseudooxytenanthera stocksii and Dendrocalamus strictus, Plasticisation of palms and bamboo,  Analysis of wood and its constituents by fluorescence and FTIR spectroscopic technique - a non-destructive tool for rapid characterisation of wood,  Developing tissue culture protocols for important forest tree species: (a) Teak and (b) Gmelina arborea,  Standardization of improved nursery techniques for different multipurpose forest tree species of central India, Biodiversity studies in protected areas: (a) Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary, M.P. and (b) Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Orissa, Comparative studies on the ecology of degraded forests viz.- a -viz. relatively undisturbed forests in different eco-climatic zones of the region,   Assessment of conservation status of Hill Bamboos (Nirgals), collection of germplasm from various eco-climatic zones in Sutlej catchment area and establishment of germplasm bank,  Development of suitable models for afforestation of mined areas,  Standardization of containerized nursery practices for selected forest tree species, Standardization of seed handling procedures for commercially important medicinal plants of forest ecosystems, Standardization of seed handling techniques for tropical recalcitrant seeds,  Management of seed and soil borne diseases of Gmelina arborea and Dipterocarpus retusus in nursery, Development of VAM as biofertilizer for some economically important forest plant species of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, Isolation and evaluation of Rhizobium from leguminous forest trees in nurseries of three districts of Assam.

 

 

 

The Directorate of Forest Education does not undertake any specific projects/programmes.  The objective of the Directorate is to conduct regular training programme in three State Forest Service Colleges for newly recruited SFS officers and in Eastern Forest Rangers College, Kurseong for Range Officers.  Besides, it also runs special theme based Refresher Courses and Computer Application Courses, Promotion linked training for ACFs and Rangers and Trainers Training Course in these colleges for in-service SFS/RFOs.  From the year 2003-2004 the Directorate has also started conducting refresher courses for in-service Deputy Rangers, Foresters and Forest Guard. The primary objective is acquisition of appropriate skills in forestry related works and dissemination of knowledge in related fields. 

 

 

The objectives of financial requirement for IGNFA is to maintain, strengthen and improve quality of training to IFS probationers, senior IFS officers who are promoted from SFS and in service officers with seniority of 10 years, 17 years and 21 years.  The proposed budget is oriented to give better infra-structural facility in the form of better library, communication equipment, computer, hostel facilities etc. and to inform the overall environment of training.

 

 

The IIFM, as a sectoral management Institute, imparts education in forest management which is a judicious combination of management, social and forestry sciences.  The Institute constantly endeavours to keep in touch with the problems of people, especially the forest dwellers and undertakes need-based research.  The Institute tries to serve as a reservoir of knowledge in forest management and ensures proper integration of external and indigenous knowledge suitable to Indian context.  The specific objectives of the Institute are:

 

*              To provide training in management and related subjects to persons from Forest Services, Forest Departments, Forest Development Corporations and Forest related Industries;

 

*              To select and prepare outstanding and talented young persons for careers leading to management responsibilities in forestry and forest related systems; and

 

*              To meet the need of Indian forestry and forest related industry and commerce with respect to updating information on forestry management through research, consultancy and publications.

 

               

 

                The basic aim of the in-service training courses is to upgrade the managerial skills in the changing socio-economic scenario of the country as also expose them to the recent developments in the field of forestry and allied subjects to enable them to handle their present duties and future needs better. The training courses also provide a forum for the IFS officers serving in different regions of the country for sharing of experiences for efficient discharge of government duty. The requirements of funds for the above training scheme will be about Rs. 9.5 crores for the Xth five year plan.

 

                The total outlay for Forestry Education & Training during 2005-06 is Rs.15.00 crores on Plan side and Rs.6.04 crores on Non Plan side.

 

FORESTRY RESEARCH

 

                               

                In respect of IPIRITI,  institutional projects are meant for development of plantation timber, developing technology for wood alternatives from agro and forest waste; enhance service life for panel materials.  All projects are approved by Research Advisory Committee and they are to be completed within the time limit. A present there are 18 ongoing institutional projects, 7 Ongoing sponsored projects and 18 new projects have been added during 2004-05.  Financial requirement for R & D have been given under II C2 for the year 2004-05 and under II C3 for the year 2005-06.   Special emphasis has been given to establish pilot plant facilities for R & D and training on particle board manufacture during 10th Five Year Plan.

 

                Sponsored projects come both from National and International organizations and funded by respective sponsors.  All the projects related to product development from bamboo and enhancement of its service life.  Projects which were due for completion in 2003-04 and 2004-05 (till October 2004) have been completed and reports sent to sponsor.

 

                Research projects worked on adhesive, where bio based ingredients are used, are getting popularity in the plywood industry.  Bamboo based technology are getting commercialized and products are being accepted by end users.

 

                The total outlay for Forestry Research during 2005-06 is Rs.54.05 crores on Plan side and Rs.12.61 crores on Non-Plan side.

 

218.      SURVEY AND UTILISATION

 

 

To conduct forest resources survey, the scheme “Forest Survey of India including Application of Remote Sensing techniques” is under implementation through Forest Survey of India - a subordinate office of this Ministry.

 

Forest Survey of India is carrying out the following activities under the scheme:

 

-               Assessment and monitoring of forest and tree cover in the country on a two year cycle.  The assessment is currently done using satellite based remote sensing data at 1:50,000 scale.  The findings are published biennially as State Forest Report.  Beginning 1987, eight cycles of assessments have taken place, the last being published as State of Forest Report 2001.

 

-               Conducting field inventory of forest and tree resources inside and outside forest areas to estimate species distribution and growing stock.  In addition, inventory of shrubs and herbs is carried out and carbon content in forest soils is recorded.

 

-               Preparation of thematic maps, showing various classes of vegetation and land use, using aerial photography of forested regions of the country.

 

-               Imparting training to forest officials from the State/UT Forest Departments in application of remote sensing, GIS, GPS and inventory techniques in forestry.  Ten to twelve such courses of 1 to 2 weeks duration for different categories of officers (Forest Rangers to senior IFS Officers) are held annually catering to training needs of over 100 officials.

 

-               Designing of methodologies pertaining to forest inventory, tree cover estimation, satellite data interpretation, data processing, ground verification, accuracy assessment and volume estimation.

 

-               Taking up consultancies, special projects and R&D activities pertaining to forest resources assessment and monitoring changes in these.

 

-               Assisting State/UT Forest Departments in establishing GIS units and in forest inventory works.

 

During 2005-06 a budgetary provision of Rs.5.50crores (Plan) and Rs.5.77 crores (Non-Plan) has been made for activities relating to survey of forest resources.

 

 

219.     FOREST PROTECTION AND REGENERATION

 

 

  Rs.72.59 crores in the first two financial years 2002-03 and 2003-04 and Rs.24.67 crores in current financial year 2004-05, total Rs.96.73 crores has been spent upto the month of October, 2004 against an outlay of Rs.231 crore crores for the period 2002-03 to 2004-05. The main reason for the shortfall has been the change in the funding pattern of the scheme from 100% Centrally Sponsored to 75% : 25% cost sharing in Financial Year 2003-04.  On requests and representations received from the states, the funding pattern has been modified during 2004-05.  At present, it is 90% : 10% for the North-Eastern States and special category states and it is 75% : 25% for the remaining states & UTs. Most of the States are finding it difficult to provide the matching share due to resource constraints & hence are not able to make use of central assistance.

 

                No provision has been made for the year 2005-06.

 

220.        FOREST CONSERVATION

 

 

                The Ministry has six Regional Offices located at Bangalore, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Lucknow, Shillong and Chandigarh with its headquarter unit in the Ministry of Environment and Forests at New Delhi.

 

                The primary functions of the Regional offices are to monitor and evaluate the ongoing forestry projects and schemes with specific emphasis on conservation of forests and follow up action on the implementation of conditions and safeguards laid down by the ministry while granting clearance to development projects under FCA/EPA. The Regional Chief Conservator of Forests are empowered to decided case for diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes upto the extent of 5 ha except mining and regularization of encroachment. They have also been empowered to examine case involving forest land 5 ha to 40 ha in consultation with the State Advisory Group (SAG).

               

                An outlay of Rs. 6.00 Crore has been earmarked for the year 2005-06 under the Plan Scheme of Strengthening of Forestry Division. 

 

 

221.      STRENGTHENING OF WILDLIFE DIVISION AND CONSULTANCIES FOR  

             SPECIAL TASKS

 

The major objective of this scheme are to strengthen the Central Wildlife organization and its existing regional offices, opening new regional Offices for better enforcement of Wildlife(Protection) Act, 1972 and Convention on International Trade in Endangered species of Wild fauna and flora(CITES) etc. due to inadequate availability of field staff the regional and sub regional offices, the organization could not contribute to the expectation to the preservation of Wild Life crimes which is on the rise and rampant in the border areas. It is therefore, necessary to strengthen the regional and sub regional offices and to open additional regional offices to check cross boarder smuggling of wildlife produce.

 

The Budget provision of 2005-06 is Rs. 4.00 crore.

 

222.      ASSISTANCE FOR  DEVELOPMENT OF NATIONAL PARKS AND SANCTUARIES

 

The objective of this scheme is to assist the States & Union territories in the development of national Parks and sanctuaries, to facilitate and encourage to expand the protected areas network, to create infrastructure facilities for better protection and management of these protected areas; and to provide financial assistant for Eco- development, training, capacity building and research studies.  Wildlife research, monitoring and training component of the scheme will receive due emphasis during the  Xth Plan period. There is need for substantial increase in the allocation under this scheme.   An important provision under this scheme is for relocation of villages falling within the protected areas to outside areas and settlement of rights.  The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.49.00 crores.

 

 

223.     WILDLIFE INSTITUTE OF INDIA

 

                The mandate of Institute is to train the wildlife managers, researchers, conservationists and other groups interested in wildlife conservation and to carry out research and advise on matters of conservation and management of wildlife resources.

 

                The WII’s programmes are mainly field–based and conducted throughout the country. This helps its faculty and technical staff to keep abreast with the field situation and incorporate new ideas in teaching and training programmes. This also helps in integrating biological, ecological, socio-economic and human aspects of conservation over large regional landscapes.

 

Priority Agenda/Thrust Areas:

 

(i)                   Regular training courses in wildlife management such as

-                      PG Diploma Course (9-month)

-                      Certificate Course (3-month)

(ii)                 Short Term specialized theme based training courses such as

-                      Interpretation and Conservation Education Course

-                      One-week compulsory course for IFS officers in Wildlife Management

-                      Two-week compulsory course for IFS officers in Wildlife Management

-                      Special Course in Wildlife Protection, Law & Forensic Science for probationers of Indian Customs & Central Excise Service Group “A” (three-week)

-                      Three-week Zoo Management Training Programme for Middle level zoo personnel

-                      Vacation Training Programme on Bioresources for School Children.

(iii)                Post Graduate Course i.e. M.Sc. in Wildlife Sciences

(iv)               Wildlife research on biological, ecological and socio-economic issues relevant to the Wildlife Conservation.

(v)                 Consultancy and Advisory Role

a.             Consultancy Projects on EIA and Wildlife Conservation

b.             Advisory Role to Govt. of Indian and State Forest Departments

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.10.00 crores on Plan side.

 

224.       PROJECT TIGER

 

 

Objective:             

 

To ensure maintenance of a viable population of tiger in India and to preserve for all time, areas of biological importance as a National Heritage for the benefits, education and enjoyment of people.

 

Activities:            

 

       i)           Policy and planning for the development and management of Tiger Reserves in the

      country.

ii)          To release Grants-in-Aid to the State Governments having tiger reserves in the country.

iii)          Research and long term studies in the field of Wildlife Management.

iv)         Eco-development activities so as to minimize interface problems and provide employment

             opportunities for communities living in and around the Tiger Reserves.

v)          Village relocation Programme.  So as to make the Tiger Reserves inviolate of any biotic

pressures and provide ideal habitat conditions for the tiger and its prey base, alongwith providing better opportunities and standards for the villagers relocated outside the protected area. 

 

          At present there are 28 Tiger Reserves located in 17 States, covering an area of 37761 sq. km. The main thrust of the Project is protection and mitigation of deleterious human impacts with a view to comprehensively revive the eco-system in the reserves.

 

The pattern of funding for the scheme is 50% Central Assistance for expenditure under recurring items of work, and 100% Central Assistance for expenditure under non-recurring items of work.

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.29.50 crores on Plan side.

 

 

225.        INDIA ECO-DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

 

 

(A)               The Project aims at conserving biodiversity through Eco-development and has been implemented as a Pilot  Project in seven Protected Areas, as under:-

 

 

(i)            Gir National Park (Gujarat)

(ii)                 Nagarhole National Park (Karnataka)

(iii)                Pench Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh)

(iv)               Periyar Tiger reserve (Kerala)

(v)                 Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (Rajasthan)

(vi)               Palamau Tiger Reserve (Bihar)

(vii)              Buxa Tiger Reserve (West Bengal)

 

(B)                Credit/Grant and Project Agreements were signed by the Government of India and State Governments concerned on 30.09.96. The India Eco-development Project was formally made effective from 27.12.96. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the implementation of the Project on 14th October 1997 with the total outlay of Rs. 294.93 Crores (Rs. 288.79 crores at SAR and Rs. 229.00 crores at MTR stages)  as under:-

 

                                                                (Rs. in crores)

 

 

(original)

SAR

MTR

After MTR

 

 

 

 

 

 

(i)

Loan from IDA

122.10

119.10

81.63

79.29

(ii)

Grant from GEF Trust

87.98

86.02

69.69

62.32

(iii)

Government of India & States

64.63

63.21

60.23

87.38

(iv)

Project Beneficiaries

20.22

20.46

17.45

20.30

 

Total:

294.93

288.79

229.00

249.29

 

 

 

226.         PROJECT ELEPHANT

 

 

                1.             Elephant continues to be an endangered species and there is an urgent need for sustaining efforts for protecting the species against ivory poaching and habitat loss.  Project Elephant is at present the only conservation initiative in forest areas outside the Protected Area network. In fact, out of about 1,10,000 sq.km. of elephant habitat in India, only 25,000 sq.km. is covered under National Parks and Sanctuaries. This is the only scheme for providing relief to the rural and tribal communities suffering due to depredation by elephants. Habitat improvement works for elephants are useful for other wild animals as well. Corridors set up for elephants are used by other wild animals also. Anti-depredation measures for elephants are also effective against a number of other species of wild animals. Elephant capturing squads can be utilised for dealing with many other wild animals. Hence, Project Elephant should not be seen as an exercise in isolation. There is no other scheme which can take care of the special management needs of elephants, both in the wild and in captivity. Hence, there is adequate

justification for continuation of Project Elephant.

 

 2.            During the year 2004-05 an amount of Rs. 8.82 crores (Rs.2.28 crores for North-Eastern States and Rs 0.11crores as  HQ expenditure ) till 15th November 2004 was allocated to the elephant range states under Project Elephant. However, more funds would be required in order to provide financial assistance for habitat management, management of man-elephant conflict, payment of ex-gratia relief for loss of life etc., strengthening of anti-poaching measures, capture and translocation  of problem elephant population etc. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


3.     Main Activities of Project Elephant (2005-06):

 

Sl.No

Activity

Estimated Cost

1.

Protection of Elephants

4.00

2.

Protection of Elephant Habitat and Corridors

4.00

3.

Eliciting Public Co-Operation (Including Mitigation of Human Elephant Conflict.  

4.65

4.

Improvement of Support Service (Including Monitoring, Research and Training.)

3.00

5.

H.Q. Expenditure

0.35

 

Total

16.00

 

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.12.09 crores on Plan side.

 

 

 

227.      CENTRAL ZOO AUTHORITY(CZA)

 

1.             Development of Zoos

 

 CZA has been  providing financial assistance  for  capital works in the Zoos which requires considerable amount. The work of housing, upkeep and health care of the zoo animals are provided on  100% basis and other developmental works are provided  on 50:50 basis. All the recurring expenditures are met by the State Government.  Same funding pattern  has been  approved for  10th Plan period. The Plan Scheme  of  the National Zoological Park, Delhi (NZP) which were earlier funded  directly from the Ministry of Environment and Forests is now  merged with CZA Scheme.

 

2.       Feeding and health care of rescued animals

 

CZA has already received 300 animals rescued from the various circus.  There are 200 more animals which are presently in possession of various circuses, likely to be adjusted. Cost on feeding and health care  of these animals is estimated as Rs. 500.00  lakhs  per year. This is a committed liability which have to discharged by the Central Government.

 

3.             Creation  of the Rescue Centres

 

The CZA has so far created housing facility to rehabilitate 300 circus animals. As per the orders of the Hon’ble Supreme court CZA has to create facility for 200 more lions and tigers which are still in possession of various circuses. Therefore requirement of  additional funds of Rs. 450 lakhs has been raised through R.E.2004-05

 

4.             Research Projects             

 

A )    LaCONES:  The Central Zoo Authority along with the CCMB & State Government of Andhra Pradesh is creating a Center of Excellence in DNA fingerprinting and assisted reproduction in wild animals at Hyderabad. During the 9th Plan period, the Central Zoo Authority had committed  @ Rs. 40 lakhs annually for establishment of the Laboratory for Conservation of the Endangered Species( LaCONES) under CCMB, Hyderabad. As per the estimates, the CCMB would require Rs.734 lakhs for  completion of the Laboratory and makes it fully functional. The requirement for completion of first phase is estimated at Rs.3.60 crores.  During the year 2004-05, Rs 180 lakhs would be required to complete the first phase of the laboratory. 

               

B) Other research projects: Research projects involving designing of appropriate animal enclosure, behavioral needs of various species, biology, population dynamics etc. are crucial in overall animal welfare in the zoos. The Central Zoo Authority has been encouraging such projects through Universities, Institutions and NGO's. The Central Zoo Authority would continue supporting such research by Universities, Institutions and NGO's etc on tripartite basis during the 10th plan period also.

 

5.                   Strengthening facility in existing Veterinary Institution

 

The Central Zoo Authority had supported up gradation of diagnostic infrastructure at five veterinary institutions in the country, so that the Indian zoos can take benefit of the expertise available with these institutions for diagnosis of disease affecting wild animals. These institutions are to be supported for sustaining their activities. Rs 50 lakhs would be required for providing assistance to these institutions.

 

6.             Training, Workshops & Conferences

For capacity buildings of the personnel manning zoos, regular training courses will continue to be organised during the 10th Plan period.  The zoo personnel will be deputed abroad for taking advance training in zoo management.  Conferences and Workshops (National & International) on various aspects of zoo management, will be required to be conducted on regular intervals.

 

7.  Operational Cost of CZA

 Operational Cost  of CZA consisting salary,  contingent charges, TA on evaluation of Zoos, office expenses etc.  is  always kept at bare minimum,  around 5-6 percent of the total allocation.

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.13.00 crores on Plan side.

 

 

228.        NATIONAL ZOOLOGICAL PARK, NEW DELHI

 

 

                The scheme of National Zoological Park is a continuing Scheme since 1955-56.  The park has been set up in capital mainly with the object to conserve and breed rare and endangered species.

 

                The National Zoological park has been quite popular with the local as well as foreign tourist, It is quite successful in breeding indigenous exotic species such as Brow Antlered Deer, Rhino, tiger, White Tiger, Panther, African Wild Buffalo, Crocodile, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Hippo.

 

                In order to run the zoo to carry the recommendation /modification as advised by Central Zoo Authority who has granted temporary recognition to National Zoological park, it is absolutely essential to get the required budgetary grant to carry out policies and program as envisaged in the Scheme of National Zoological Park

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.1.50 crores on Plan side.

 

 

 

229.       PROTECTION OF WILDLIFE OUTSIDE PROTECTED AREAS

 

                While there have been schemes for covering protected areas, a need has been felt for protection of Wildlife outside the protected areas.  The Scheme has now been proposed for merger with the scheme “Strengthening of Wildlife Divisions” Protection of Wildlife outside Protected Areas will be part of the above scheme as Centrally Sponsored component in the Xth Plan. 

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.0.01 crores on Plan side.

 

 

 

230.        ANIMAL WELFARE DIVISION

 

Various Schemes Implemented by the Animal Welfare Division.

 

(a)       Scheme For Shelter Houses For Looking After The Animals –

           The objective of this scheme is to establish and maintain shelter houses for distressed animals in the country.  Primarily NGOs, SPCAs are given grant up to Rs.22.50 lakhs.

 

        During 2004-05 Rs. 2.75 Crores have been earmarked for this scheme.

 

(b) Scheme for Animal Birth Control And Immunization of Stray Dogs-

 

     The scheme is meant for controlling the population of stray dogs by sterilization & reducing incidences of Rabies by immunization.  The NGOs and SPCAs working in collaboration with local bodies are eligible for this grant.  The scheme has had the desired impact specially in large cities like, New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Panaji,  Vishakhapatnam, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad and there has been a perceptible improvement               in controlling the dog population.

                                    

(c)   Scheme For Provision of Ambulance Services to         Animals in Distress -

 

Under this scheme the animal welfare organization are given grant   for purchase of suitable vehicle for transportation, rescue and also for providing emergency services to animals in distressed.

 

               (d)            Scheme For Relief To Animals During Natural           Calamities And    Unforeseen

Circumstances

               

                The animal welfare organizations, State Government, Local         Bodies etc. are given grant to

make available emergency services to animals in distressed on account of Natural Calamities

like earthquakes, cyclone, flood, drought etc.

               

                The above mentioned schemes have since been transferred to Animal Welfare Board of India

for implementation.

 

(e) National Institute of Animal Welfare (NIAW)

 

                The Ministry of Environment & Forests(Animal Welfare Division), Government of India has established a National Institute of Animal Welfare (NIAW) at Ballabhgarh, Faridabad (Haryana), as a subordinate institute under its administrative control. The objective of the institute is to impart training and education in animal welfare and veterinary science. The institute aims at creating an enabling environment for fulfillment of the statutory obligations under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act,1960.

 

                In this context, the Animal Welfare Division, Ministry of Environment & Forests, is exploring the possibility of awarding a turnkey assignment of conducting in-service and short term training courses to an organizations having adequate experience in this field. The proposals are invited from organizations to design and run the training programmes on turnkey basis.

 

It is envisaged to schedule 12 training programmes of one week duration, 6 training programmes of two weeks duration and 4 training programmes of 4 weeks duration, with batch size of 40 each.

 

 

Statutory Bodies

 

(f) Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) 

 

This is a statutory body under Section 4 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960, with head quarters at Chennai.  Its basic mandate is to advise the Government on animal welfare issues, and create awareness in animal welfare. 

 

 (g)  Committee for Purpose of Control & Supervision of           Experiments   

      on Animals (CPCSEA)

 

This is also a  statutory body under Section 15 of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 with head quarters at Chennai.  The mandate of this Committee is to register and monitor the animal breeders and institutions conducting experiments on animals.  So far 825 Units have been registered with this Committee.

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.19.00 crores on Plan side.

 

 

231.      NATIONAL AFFORESTATION & ECO-DEVELOPMENT BOARD

 

The 10th Five Year Plan has set a monitorable target of achieving 25% forest and tree cover by the end of 2007 and 33% cover by the end of 2012 in the country.  These targets have been endorsed, and the Union Cabinet has decided that devising suitable interventions by Government agencies and NGOs to increase the forest cover to 25% by 2007 and 33% by  2012 will be a Thrust Area and Priority Item for 2003-04.     The present forest and tree cover of the country, as per State of Forest Report 2001 of the Forest Survey of India, is 23.03%.  In order to achieve those targets 6.5 million ha of additional lands have to be brought under forest and tree cover by 2007, and 33.6 million ha of additional lands by 2012.  The current rate of tree planting in the country is around 1.16 million ha.  Therefore, in order to achieve the 10th Plan targets, the efforts have to be significantly stepped up.  The Annual Plan 2004-05 of National Afforestation & Eco-development Board reflects such endeavour.   The major programmes of NAEB namely, National Afforestation Programme, and Grants-in-Aid for ‘Greening India Programme’ are proposed to be significantly enlarged in size and coverage.  It is also proposed that under these two schemes the participation of voluntary sector would be one of the main focus areas.  The details of the schemes are as under: -

 

 

                (1)           National Afforestation  Programme Scheme (NAP):

 

It will continue to be the flagship scheme of NAEB, in so much as it will provide support, both in physical and capacity building terms, to the Forest Development Agencies (FDAs) which in turn will be the main organ to implement Joint Forest Management .  The FDA has been conceived as a federation of Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) at the Forest Division level to undertake holistic development in the forestry sector with people’s participation. This is a paradigm shift from the earlier afforestation programmes wherein funds where routed through the State Governments. This decentralized two-tier institutional structure (FDA and JFMC) allows greater participation of the community, both in planning and implementation, to improve forests and livelihood of the people living in and around forest areas. The village is reckoned as a unit of planning and implementation and all activities under the programme conceptualized at the village level. The two-tier approach, apart from building capacities at the grassroots level significantly  empowers the local people to participate in the decision making process.  Under Entry Point Activities, community assets are created with a ‘care and share’ concept.

 

Bamboo plantation, medicinal plants and Jatropha have been given adequate focus under NAP during the last two years State Governments have been advised to earmark 10% of the project area under NAP for Jatropha  plantation.   581 FDAs have been operationalised as on 23.02.05. Rehabilitation of jhumlands have been given specific focus under the programme, and so far 16 jhum projects have been sanctioned in NE States.

 

Similar thrust will continue to cover as many of the remaining FDAs in the country in the coming years under the NAP scheme.  A provision of Rs236.85 crores has been proposed for the scheme during 2005-06, which will cover the committed liabilities of FDA projects sanctioned until 2003-04, and support to estimated 100 new NAP projects during 2004‑05, covering an estimated area of around 1,20,000 ha.  The provision of Rs.236.85 crores also includes provision for maintenance of 9th Plan Scheme projects.  

 

 

(2)                 NAEB :

 

                This scheme will cover the administrative expenses of the Board Secretariat (salaries, wages, allowances, traveling expenses, and office & other expenses), Monitoring and Evaluation of the NAEB projects and schemes, Communication, Professional and Special Services, Support to Regional Centres, the proposed Grants-in-Aid to Greening India Programme after restructuring the present Grants-in-Aid to Voluntary Agencies component. A provision for Rs. 24.00 Cr. is proposed:-

 

(i)            Greening India Scheme (GI) (Proposed) :

 

It is proposed to modify existing component of Grants in aid to Voluntary agencies under the NAEB Scheme. Under the modified component financial assistance would also be given for afforestation using Quality planting material.

The modified component would  essentially have  three main activities:

 

During the tenth five year, the procedure to provide Grants-in-Aid to Voluntary agencies has been simplified. The following categories are eligible for Grants-in-Aid: -

 

 

(ii)           National Action Programme to Combat Desertification

 

A round table on policy strategies for protection of Rural livelihood in Desertification prone areas was held on 26-27 November 2004 in I.I.M. Bangalore. The UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) was adopted on 17th June 1994 and India is a party to the Convention. The MoEF is the nodal agency and a national focal point for the implementation of the UNCCD in the country. Accordingly, a National Action Programme (NAP) has been finalized which is planned to be implemented over a period of 20 years with the following objectives:-

 

·         community based approach to development

·         activities to improve the quality of life of the local communities

·         awareness raising

·         drought management preparedness and mitigation,

·         R & D initiatives and interventions which are locally suited,

·         Strengthening local self governance leading to empowerment to the local communities.

 

                A mannual on best practices in Agro forestry in dry land of Asia Pacific Region has been finalised. GEF has been recognized as financial mechanism. It is proposed to participate in CRIC-3 meeting to be held in Bonn during 2 - 11 May 2005.

 

§         The COP-7 meeting of UNCCD would be held in October 2005. It is proposed to held workshop on Synergy among RIO Conventions to raise awareness about UNCCD.

 

§         It is also proposed to launch a National Capacity Need Assessment Programme with UNDP assistance.

 

§         It is also proposed to join Regional Drought Preparedness Network (RDPN) for 13 Asia Pacific countries under the aeigies of UNESCO/ESCAP.

 

 

(iii)         Monitoring & Evaluation -

 

It is proposed to undertake evaluation of the 9th Plan schemes implemented by NAEB (Integrated Afforestation & Eco-Development Project Scheme, Area Oriented Fuelwood & Fodder Project Scheme and Non-Timber Forest Produce including Medicinal Plant Scheme.

 

It is also proposed to continue with:

 

(a)                Monitoring of FDA projects, and Grants-in-Aid to Voluntary Agencies projects;

(b)           Sample check of tree planting under 20-Point Programme in 50 selected districts of   India;

(c)           Area Coverage and Survival Percentage in selected FDA areas (by Forest Survey of India);

                (d)           Mid-term evaluation of NAP Scheme, and;

(e)                 Holding regional interactive meeting on M&E reports with evaluators and State Forest Department.

 

(iv)          Regional Centres

 

The Board has seven Regional Centres located in various universities/national level institutions. These centres help NAEB in promoting extension of replicable technologies and for dissemination of research findings. They provide technical and extension support to the State Forest Departments in preparing projects for regeneration of degraded forests and adjoining lands with people’s participation and also act as a forum for the exchange of ideas and experiences amongst the States of the region as well across the regions. In addition, these Centres carry out problem-specific studies as well as evaluation of NAEB’s  Programmes in the field and organize training programmes and workshops. These Centres, and the States they cover, are as follows:-

 

Sl. No.

Regional Centres

State covered under each Regional Centre

1.

University of Agriculture, Bangalore

Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry, Lakshdweep

2.

University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan

Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab and Delhi

3.

Agriculture Finance Corn., New Delhi

Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttranchal and Delhi

4.

Indian Institute of Forest Management, Bhopal

Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Orissa

5.

Agricultural Finance Corporation, Mumbai

Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Daman & Diu, D&N Haveli

6.

North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong

Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Tripura

7.

Jadavpur University, Calcutta

Bihar, Jharkhand, Sikkim, West Bengal and A&N Island

 

 

 

 

(v)           Communication

 

It is proposed at National level to launch a mass awareness campaign for increase in forest and tree cover to 25% and 33% by the year 2007 and 2012 respectively. The strategy will focus on various categories through multi-media by new technology and methodologies of participatory management, eco-development and regeneration of degraded forests are being progressively developed. In order to share such experiences and technologies widely, NAEB document, such information, bring out publications and documents success stories will continue to support to Vigyan Rail project of Department of Science and Technology, which houses one coach on forest and environment.  This will popularize tree planting and associated knowledge to the Indian masses.  It is also proposed to develop and advertise, through TV info‑mercials, etc. tree planting to generate a mass movement.  

 

(vi)          Professional and Special Services

 

The National Afforestation & Eco-Development Board undertakes special studies on important issues relating to policy formulation, programme implementation, etc. The Board engages expert professionals for taking up these assignments.

 

                During 2005-06 it is proposed to undertake studies on areas like, eco‑development, Joint Forest Management, employment generation, reorientation of existing programmes, agro-forestry, risk management etc.,

 

 

3.             Eco-Development Forces

 

Ecological Task Forces(ETFs) of ex-servicemen are employed in remote and difficult areas to undertake restoration of degraded ecosystems through afforestation, soil conservation and water resource management techniques. The scheme also serves as a mechanism to rehabilitate the ex-servicemen on productive work and to create employment for retired army personnel mainly in the rural areas. Effective steps are being taken to strengthen co-ordination of ETFs with the State Forest Departments, and to undertake cost-cutting measures to make the scheme more efficient.

 

                The proposed provision of the scheme for the year 2005-06 is Rs. 8.00 Crores.  It is proposed to devise mechanisms for cost cutting measures and other initiatives to make ETF an effective tool for eco rehabilitations.

 

 

Indira Privadarshini Vriksha Mitra Awards (IPVM):

 

The Board in addition to directly supporting activities relating to tree planting and afforestation is also encouraging private initiatives.  For this IPVM Awards would continue to be given by the Board. 

 

                IPVM awards are presented annually to the following categories:-

·                     Individual

·                     Panchayats

·                     Educational Institutions

·                     Voluntary Agencies

·                     Government Agencies

·                     Corporate Sector

·                     Government Servants (Individuals)

·                     Municipalities/Municipal Corporations/ Cantonment Boards have been added.

o        The awards are given on the basis of innovative efforts and outstanding work in Afforestation, with special reference to wastelands development and involvement of the people. The following activities are kept in view while deciding the awards:

o        establishing decentralized nurseries;

o        tree planting on wastelands/farm lands;

o        awareness-raising, motivation and extension work;

o        involving the rural poor/tribals/cooperatives in Afforestation and tree planting;

o        setting up grass-roots level institutions like the Tree Growers’ Cooperatives; and

o        social fencing of community woodlots and pasture lands.

 

It is also proposed to institute an award for best Forest Development Agency (FDA).

 

                The Awards up to the year 2001 have been announced. From the year 2002 the amount of award money has been raised to Rs. 1 lakh.  Two new categories of Awards women category and State Govt. have been included.

 

Provision for NE States.

 

Adequate emphasis will be given to the development of North-Eastern States including Sikkim.  Jhum areas in the North-East have been given special priority, and 16 number of jhum land development based National Afforestation Programme projects have been sanctioned so far.  The Board is also supporting new initiatives and new technologies to support States’ effort in tackling the problem of jhum land degradations.  Alder – tree based jhum rehabilitation project is also being considered and if found suitable would be scaled up in the coming years.  In view of the fact that a majority of forest lands in the North-East is owned by clans and communities, there will be given adequate emphasis on supporting projects proposed on these lands both under National Afforestation Programme and Grants-in-Aid to Greening India Programme. 

 

Women/ SC/ST Component

 

While formulating proposals under National Afforestation Programme, States have been advised to give adequate representation to women/SC/ST in FDA and JFMC at village level. Women participation has been increased to 50%. Similarly in JFM, participation of members of SCs and STs is ensured.

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.10.00 crores on Plan side.

 

 

232.      NATIONAL RIVER CONSERVATION DIRECTORATE

                                 

The Government of India had set up National River Conservation Authority with a view to ensure that the rivers are not being polluted and at the same time it would ensure that the waste that flows into the river are treated in the first instance before disposing in the river.  Originally the scheme was taken up in river Ganga.  It was a 100% Central scheme, the work was executed by the State Government.  Subsequently, the funding pattern was changed.  Presently the funding pattern is now shared between Centre and the States in the ratio of 70 : 30.  In addition, the States have to ensure that at least a 10% i.e. one-third of their share to be contributed by the local authorities.  The total outlay for the National River Conservation Directorate, which includes National Lake Conservation Plan, is fixed at Rs.2123 crores by the Planning Commission for the Tenth Plan.  Following are the

year wise expenditure in the Tenth Plan:

 

(Rs. in Crores)

Year

Approved Outlay

Actual/ Anticipated expenditure

2002-03

290.00

295.23

2003-04

295.00

245.74

 

2004-05

364.20

 

210.84

(31.10.2004)

2005-06

558.19

(Proposed)

 

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.420.80 crores on Plan side.

 

 

ECOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

 

 

233.       BOTANICAL SURVEY OF INDIA

 

The primary function of Botanical Survey of India is to conduct, survey, exploration and identification of the plant resources of the country, listing of all endangered species, collection and maintenance of germplasm and creation of gene bank of endangered and threatened and vulnerable species and to undertake measures for the effective conservation of such species. BSI also identifies, collects and preserves specimens of plants which are economically and medicinally beneficial to human beings and is compiling a National Data Base on Plant Resources of the country based on botanical explorations.

               

In addition to the above, BSI undertakes study of fragile ecosystems, sanctuaries, parks, Biosphere Reserves, EIA studies, Ethnobotanical and Geobotanical studies.

 

                BSI is the custodian of the largest collection (over 4 million) of herbarium specimens in S.E. Asia which are being maintained for over a century. The scientists of the Survey undertake critical taxonomic study of the specimens collected and publish  National , State and District Floras, Plant Diversity of India and Ethnobotanical Studies.

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.11.00 crores on Plan side and Rs.12.78 on Non-Plan side.

 

 

234.       ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA

 

Scope & Objectives of Individual Programmes as defined in the Tenth Five Year Plan Proposal is as shown below :

 

On-going Programmes

Programme No. 1. Exploration and survey of State Fauna (District-wise)

Programme No.2. Studies on some selected ecosystems of Indian region.

Programme No. 3. Survey of protected areas including Tiger Reserve.

Programme No. 4. Taxonomic studies on faunal components.

Programme No. 5. Status surveys of Endangered species.

Programme No. 6. Preparation of Red Data Book and Fauna of India Projects.

Programme No. 7. Computerization of data on faunal diversity including National Zoological Collections.

Programme No. 8. Documentation and Publication.

Programme No. 9. Training and Extension Services.

 

Targets & Performance:

The objectives and functions of ZSI were reviewed in 1987 and redefined in 1991. A revised time frame and priorities in the programmes of work were fixed by the Ministry of Environment & Forests with the target proposed up to 2000 A. D. This was further discussed in the Programme Advisory Committee set up by the Ministry recently in 2002 and the draft approved  by the committee is incorporated in the Tenth Five Year Plan in the form of programmes to be taken up.

Relevance to the National Objectives :

During recent years, the scope and functions of the Zoological Survey of India have been considerably expanded, particularly in the light of the Convention on Biological Diversity, ratified by Govt. of India in 1994 with special reference to Articles 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, and 41 of the Convention.

 

 

 

Evaluation :

The projects taken up by the Department is evaluated at different levels.

Firstly at the level of the Scientific Section then at divisional level

Secondly at the level of the Scientific Monitoring Committee of Senior Officers of the Dept.              

Thirdly at the level  of the Director

Fourthly at the level of Programme Advisory Committee set up  by the Ministry

 

Estimated Cost :

               

The Estimated Cost in the Xth Five Year Plan - 45.00 Crores ( including Capital )

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.9.81 crores on Plan side and Rs.9.79 crores on Non-Plan side.

 

               

 

235.        NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

 

The National Museum of Natural History was set up in New Delhi on 5th June 1978.  It is devoted to environmental education.  Consequently, it has set up three Regional Museums at  (1) Mysore,  (2) Bhopal  and (3) Bhubaneswar.  The Regional Museums at Mysore & Bhopal have become fully functional during the Eighth & Ninth Plans respectively,  while the Regional Museum at Bhubaneswar become made operational and has been opened to public on 10th August 2004 during the 10th Plan period. 

 

The main objective  and programme of the NMNH and RMNH is targeted towards the overall objective of creating ‘environmental awareness’ and ‘conservation education’ to prepare conscious citizenry and sensitize them to halt and reverse the negative trends of environmental exploitation.     The establishment of National Museum of Natural History and its Regional Museums of Natural History have definitely contributed to make the young generation aware towards the environmental issues.          

 

 

                The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.6.50 crores on Plan side and Rs.0.68 crores on Non-Plan side.

 

 

236.      ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION, AWARENESS & TRAINING

 

1.                   Environment Education and Training

 

The main programmes being implemented under this scheme are as under.

 

(i )           National Environment Awareness Campaign (NEAC)

 

This is an annual event being organised through 29 Regional Resource Agencies (RRA) working all over the country.  The prime aim of this campaign is to create awareness about environment at all levels of society.  The campaign is conducted with the active participation of Non-Governmental Organisations, professional bodies, educational institutions and government departments.  RRA are responsible to disburse money on behalf of the Ministry to participants selected by the Regional Committees and also monitor the campaign in their areas.  Expenses of these agencies are reimbursed by the Ministry.

 

(ii)                Eco Clubs ( National Green Corps)

 

A programme of raising “ National Green Corps” through the intensification of Eco-clubs developed during the last year of the Ninth Plan with the objective of spreading environmental awareness and to carryout action based programmes for protection and improvement of environment.  Under this programme, it is decided to set up Eco-clubs in 150 schools of each district of the country. In all, about 75,000 Eco-clubs have been set up through out the country.  These Eco clubs would organise and conduct a various activities on environmental themes, which are immediate relevance to the area.

 

The Government of India will provide financial assistance for establishment of Eco-clubs @ Rs. 1000 per Eco-club, teachers training and distribution of resource materials.  It is proposed that during the Tenth Plan period, the number of Eco-Clubs would be increased to 1,00,000.  It is also proposed to extend the programme to colleges, through appropriate implementing mechanism.  The programme is being implemented through State Governments.  Each school will be given a financial assistance of Rs. 5000/- per annum instead of Rs. 1000.00 presently being given to them. 

 

     (iii)           Seminars/Symposia/Workshops/Conferences

 

           The main objective of this programme is to provide a common forum to professional for sharing up to date knowledge and information on various technical issues related to environment and to create environmental awareness about specific issues. Financial assistance is provided under this scheme to Universities, other academic and research institutions, professional bodies, NGOs etc. to organise seminars/symposia/workshops on specific themes related to environment.            

 

(iv) Grants in aid to professional societies & institutions and Publication of resource material

 

                Under the programme, efforts will be made to provide financial support to the appropriate institutions and organisations for promotion of museums, science centres in the field of environment, development of exhibition galleries and educational programmes relevant to ecology, wildlife and environment and also to utilise expertise available with professional societies, voluntary organisations, institutions etc. for printing and publication of resource material for promoting environmental education and awareness The budget provision for 2005-06 of this scheme is included in the Environment Education & Training Scheme.

                The budget provision for Environment Education & Training Scheme for 2005-06 is Rs.32.50 crores on Plan side and Rs.0.02 crores on Non-Plan side.

                     

                                     

237.       ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS (ENVIS)

 

                The ENVIS Network at present consists of 25 ENVIS centres, which have been set up on different subjects related to environment throughout the country with the Focal Point in the Ministry.   All the Centres have developed their home pages and web sites in their assigned subject-areas.  The websites of ENVIS Centres is to be linked with the ENVIS site to be hosted by the Ministry. In addition 65 ENVIS nodes setup under the World Bank assisted Environment Management Capacity Building (EMCB) Project for strengthening of ENVIS, will be incorporated as ENVIS Centre after review & modification of SFC. Enviro-News, Paryavaran Abstract and Annual Report of the Ministry will also be published under the scheme

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.4.50 crores on Plan side and Rs.0.19 crores on Non-Plan side.

 

238.      CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE

 

                Under the Scheme, the Ministry is providing assistance to the nine Centres of Excellence in different areas of environment. The Centre for Mining Environment, Dhanbad imparts training to in-service field personnel in environment Science and Technology with particular reference to Environment Management in Mining Areas and conducts research in the field of Mining Environment.  The Centre has initiated a regular academic programme leading to M.Tech Degree in Environment Science & Engineering. The Centre for Environment Education, Ahmedabad and CPR Environmental Education Centre, Chennai, would be continuing their efforts in environmental awareness, creation and production of resource material.  Besides, these Centres also focuses attention in organising several environmental education and training programmes for various groups like students, teachers, NGOs, rural people etc.  Publication of newsletter on environmental education databank etc. would also be carried out by both the Centres in the field of environment education and awareness.   The TBGRI, Thiruvananthapuram, is a Centre of Excellence for Conservation and sustainable utilisation of tropical plants diversity.  The thrust areas on which the Centre focuses upon are: tropical plant diversity, tropical medicinal plant diversity and ethno-botany and R&D in medicinal and herbal formulations and preparations. The SACON was set up in 1991-92 to design and conduct research in ornithology covering all aspect of bio-diversity and to disseminate knowledge on the subject.   The Centre for Ecological Science, Bangalore, is a Centre of Excellence in the field of Ecological Research, applied environmental problems and extension programmes with particular reference to Western Ghats.  The Ministry provides grant to the Centres for conducting research and organising training & extension programme in specified fields.  The Thrust areas in respect of the Centre of Excellence at CEMDE, Delhi  are: Biological reclamation of mined areas in coal fields and iron ore mines, Afforestation and reforestation technologies for wasteland and Technologies for soil amelioration and protection and the main objectives of the Centre are to: develop low-input and cost effective biological technologies useful in the biological reclamation of mined sites, evolve appropriate technology packages for enhancing the biological productivity of marginal lands, undertake research and developmental activities relevant to the sustainable development of forest ecosystems and prepare the inventory of biological resources and to formulate strategies for their utilisation and conservation.  Two new Centres in Madras School of Economics, Chennai and Foundation for Revitalization of Local Health Traditions(FRLHT), Bangalore have been set-up sometime back by the Ministry.  The FRLHT focuses on conservation of Medicinal Plants resources used by Indian System of Medicine, composition of the theory and practice of traditional systems of medicine and revitalisation of social processes for transmission of the heritage.  The Madras School of Economics works on the subjects relation to :- (i) Development of Economic Instruments; (ii) Trade and Environment; (iii) Cost benefit analysis; (iv) Applied aspects of Environmental Economics; and (v) Development and maintenance of website on issues relating to Environmental Economics.

 

                An outlay of Rs.7.50 Crores on Plan side and Rs 1.39 Crores on Non-Plan side is earmarked for 2004-2005 for providing Central assistance to all the Centres.

 

239.       NATIONAL NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (NNRMS)

 

The scheme would be continued during the year 2005-2006 and efforts will be made to support the research activities involving GIS and remote-sensing technology under identified priority areas. During the year, it is targeted to evaluate and monitor 30 ongoing projects supported under the scheme.

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.10.00 on Plan side.

 

240.      ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT

 

                The objective of Environmental Impact Assessment is to assess the impact of development projects from environment angle .  The projects are assessed by Expert Committees constituted for various sectors under the  mandate.    There are periodical meetings  of the Expert Committee and  visits to the  project area before recommending environmental clearance for the project.  To meet the expenditure for TA and DA to members of the committees an amount Rs.80 lakhs has been asked for the BE 2005-2006 .  Besides an amount of Rs.1.00  crore  have also been asked  under the Budget Head ‘Grants-in aid’  is provided to expert  institutions for conducting specific studies to advise decision taking  for environmental clearance.

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.2.50 crores on Plan side.

 

241.        CLEAN TECHNOLOGY

 

As a part of sustainable development strategies, studies were initiated on carrying capacity based regional development planning, natural accounting, life cycle analysis etc.  In this direction, the ongoing studies on carrying capacity of Greater Kochi Region have been completed.  The follow-up workshop for taking further necessary action on the findings of the study was organised.  The State Government has been requested to take necessary a follow-up action on the recommendations made in the study report.

 

                The study on life cycle analysis (LCA) in steel sector involving three major steel plants has been completed and the report has been prepared by National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur.  Another LCA study in the coal/lignite based thermal power sector has also been completed.  LCA studies in respect of pulp and paper sector is underway and is progressing well.  LCA studies in cement sector have also been initiated.

 

                The ongoing studies on (i) market based instruments for Kawas-Hazira Region and (ii) industrial ecological opportunities in the Ankleswar and Nandesari Industrial Estates, Gujarat have been completed and follow-up workshops have been organised for taking further necessary action on the findings of these studies.

                The other on-ongoing projects namely; (i) development of bamboo based composite panels for housing in North-East, (ii) technology up-gradation in utensil industry, (iii) identification, development and uitilisation of Natural Dyes from the Forest Plants of Uttranchal and (iv) application of UASB system and energy recovery in CETP are progressing well (v) Utilisation of Anode Mud and Chips – the solid wastes generated in the zinc industry for making value added products

 

                Another project of two year duration of domestic unit employing a complexing resin for removing As(v) from water at a total cost of Rs.10.75 lakhs has been sponsored to Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar.

 

                Proposals for undertaking demonstration projects relating to promotion of clean technology received from CSIR and other agencies are being examined for  Financial grant under this scheme.    

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.1.50 crores on Plan side.

 

 

242.    INDUSTRIAL POLLUTION ABATEMENT THROUGH PREVENTIVE  STRATEGIES

 

               

                During the X Plan, the three on-going schemes of the IX Plan namely; Environmental audit, Environmental Statistics & Mapping and Adoption of Clean Technologies in SSIs have been merged into one scheme known as industrial Pollution Abatement through Preventive Strategies with the proposed outlay ofRs.5 Crores.  The objective of the scheme is to promote preventive strategies through introduction of cleaner production technologies, Environmental Management system etc.

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.1.00 crores on Plan side.

 

243.       ASSISTANCE FOR ABATEMENT OF POLLUTION AND ENVIRONMENT POLICY AND LAW.

 

 

Environment Policy & Law Scheme under the Assistance for Abatement of Pollution, Environment Policy and Law Scheme

 

Out of Rs.35 lakhs required under the scheme, amount ofRs.31 lakhs would be grants in aid proposed  to be utilised on the  following activities:

 

(i)                   Formulation of  National Environment Policy - Finalisation of the NEP would involve some costs relating to activities like consultation, printing, publication , publicity/dissemination etc.

(ii)                 Promotion of ECO-MARK scheme by way of grant of financial assistance and workshop etc.

(iii)                Trade & Environment - Consultancy  assignments policy oriented studies and capacity building

(iv)               ISO-14001 -facilitation and awareness building for ISO 14001

 

ASSISTANCE FOR ABATEMENT OF POLLUTION

 

Financial assistance is being provided to various SPCBs/PCCs, national institutions etc. for specific projects, studies, purchase of equipment, salary components in respect of Pollution Control Committees of UTs and North Eastern States including Sikkim etc.  This is being provided on the basis of the requirements made by these units.  Before, extending financial assistance, the demands are considered in the Ministry in consultation with the Central Pollution control Board.

 

                An amount of Rs.18.42 crores has been approved by the Planning Commission for the above Scheme for the whole period of X Five Year Plan 2002-2007.  Out of this, An amount of Rs.4.00 crores was allocated by the PC Division in the financial year 2004-05 which will be utilised fully. 

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.4.00 crores on Plan side.

 

 

244.     CIVIL CONSTRUCTION UNIT

 

During the year 2005-2006, the Civil Construction has set a target of completion of total 26 major works for which a provision of Rs.10.92 crores has been made in the Budget Estimates for 2005-2006. Some of the above works are on going works where as the remaining are new works.

 

 

 

245.       CENTRAL POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD (CPCB)

 

                                The activities of CPCB are grouped into nine Project Heads, the salient features of each project head is summarised as under:

 

I.              Pollution Assessment  - Survey and Monitoring:

 

                                CPCB in consultation with State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) /Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) has set-up Water Quality and Ambient Air Quality monitoring network. The expenditure incurred by the SPCBs is reimbursed by CPCB. It is also proposed to strengthen the existing ambient air and water quality-monitoring network. There are other on-going programmes, which includes survey of polluted river stretches and preparation assessment of non-point sources of pollution, bio-monitoring of national aquatic system assessment of health survey and epidemiological study to see the impact of pollution on human health. State specific surveys are also taken up through Zonal Offices of CPCB. An outlay of Rs. 700.00 lakh has been proposed.

 

 

 

II.            Laboratory Management – Operation, Maintenance and R & D:

 

                                CPCB has set up a laboratory facility at its Head Office and Zonal Offices have also been provided with laboratory facilities. The strengthening of laboratories is an on-going activity and the laboratories are equipped for undertaking analysis of  critical  pollutants.   Parameters have been added up for analysis of the bio-medical wastes, plastic wastes, municipal solid wastes and hazardous  wastes (water and air pollution). CPCB is also proposing a number of R & D schemes relating to various aspects of prevention and control pollution. Regular analytical quality control (AQC) tests and training to the staff of SPCBs/PCCs are also proposed. An outlay of Rs. 500.00 lakh has been proposed.

 

III.           Development of Standards, guidelines and Ecomark:

 

                                CPCB has developed standards for disposal of treated liquid effluents and gaseous emissions in respect of major category of polluting industries. Some of the standards need to be reviewed from time to time taking technological improvement into considerations. It is proposed to undertake review of standards in respect of those categories of industry, which have already been covered. An outlay of Rs. 120.00 lakh has been proposed. 

 

IV            Training:

 

                                CPCB is proposing to undertake training programmes for the benefit of officers and laboratory staff of SPCBs/PCCs, regional training programmes would be conducted through expert institutions and Zonal Offices. The important areas include: bio-medical waste, plastic wastes, municipal solid wastes, cleaner technologies, vehicular pollution and noise pollution control, etc. An out lay of Rs. 20.00 lakh has been proposed during 2004-05.

 

 

VA&B   Information (Data-Base) Management and Library:

 

                                This is an on-going programme under which major expenditure is on the operation and maintenance of LAN/Internet network. A number of softwares, such as software for water and air quality reports and environmental data bank (EDB) are also proposed to be developed.  Some of the documents and important notifications are placed at CPCB’s Website.  An outlay of Rs. 70.00 lakh is proposed.

 

VI            Pollution Control Enforcement:

 

                                The important activity under the pollution control enforcement is to ensure compliance of 17 categories of polluting industries and industries located close to rivers and lakes. The action plan  prepared for restoration of environmental quality in the critically polluted area is under implementation through the concerned SPCBs. During this year, the task forces on 17-categories of highly polluting industries   will review and implement the Charter on “Corporate Responsibility for Environmental Protection (CREP)”.  inspection/visits under Environment Surveillance Squad (ESS) would continue with respect to polluting industries and as per the compliance of various court’s directives. An emphasis would be on implementation of bio-medical waste (BMW), municipal solid waste (MSW), and plastic waste management (PWM) through SPCBs /PCCs.  The implementation of  Hon’ble Supreme Court’s  directives relating to formulation of Action Plan on Solid Waste Management in 59 cities including State Capitals will be laid.     The major allocation includes on construction of Zonal Offices buildings, eco-cities and implementation of on-going programme on setting up of demo-project on management of MSW. An outlay of Rs. 1000.00 lakh is proposed.

 

VII          Pollution Control Technology:

 

                                Under this project head, emphasis would be given to develop/review the various treatment technologies for abatement of pollution. The important ongoing programmes include; performance evaluation of sewage treatment plants, risk assessment in chemical industries, vehicular pollution and noise control in DG Sets and various innovative treatment technologies for plastic wastes, municipal solid wastes and bio-medical wastes. An outlay of Rs. 90.00 lakh is proposed.

 

 

                                                                                               

VIII         Mass Awareness, Publication and NGOs:

 

                                This is an ongoing project under which programmes relating to mass awareness are taken-up. The activity also includes: publication of reports, documents, and newsletters on various topics/subjects. Besides, a number of other activities such as organising exhibitions, putting stalls in various exhibition and sale of publication, distribution of water testing kits to NGOs/Schools etc. would also be taken-up. An outlay of Rs. 90.00 lakh is proposed.

 

 

IX            Hazardous Waste Management:

 

                                It is a continuous activity and projects under this head includes: identification of hazardous wastes streams in various industries, inventorisation of hazardous waste generating units in various sectors in different States. Schemes for grant of registration of  recycling industries, preparation of guidelines for recycling and reprocessing of waste/used oil and non-ferrous metals. Implementation of standards for leachate in hazardous waste dumpsites, assessment & development of hazardous waste disposal facilities in the States, organising training programmes/workshop and follow-up of the recommendations of various Committees constituted for management of hazardous wastes/chemicals. Formulation of  strategy for management of E-waste. An outlay of Rs. 60.00 lakh is proposed during 2005-06.

 

The budget provision for CPCB for 2005-06 is Rs.39.00 crores on Plan side and Rs.7.57 crores on Non-Plan side.

 

 

246.        ASSISTANCE TO BOTANIC GARDENS

 

                The scheme envisages to promote ex-situ conservation of rare endemic plants through the scheme by strengthening infrastructural facilities of existing botanical gardens and centers of ex-situ conservation.  The   annual financial allocation  of Rs. 3.0 crores is required during 2005-06.

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.2.00 crores on Plan side.

 

 

247.        RESEARCH & ECOLOGICAL REGENERATION

 

Background :

 

Ministry of Environment and  Forests  has  been   funding  research in multi-disciplinary aspects of environmental and ecosystems protection, conservation and management at various universities, institutions of higher learning, national research institutes and non-governmental organizations.  The primary objectives are to develop strategies, technologies and methodologies for better environment management and also create infrastructure and a pool of trained manpower to shoulder the responsibility of environment management in the country.  Environmental Research particularly aims at attempting solutions to the practical problems of resource management and provides necessary inputs for the twin objectives of conservation of Natural resources and restoration of environmental quality.

 

The environmental research in the Ministry of Environment & Forests is being supported under various sub-schemes which are given below:

 

·         Environment Research Programme – Brown Agenda

·         Ecosystem Research Scheme – Green Agenda

·         Research Programme for Eastern and Western Ghats -Site specific

·         Pitambar Pant National Environment Fellowship Award

·         B.P. Pal National Environment Fellowship Award for Bio-diversity.

 

 

The Sub-Schemes

 

Environment  Research  Programme specifically deals with brown agenda i.e. problems related to air, water and soil and development of suitable cost effective technology for abatement of pollution load in the environment. Emphasis is laid on development of eco-friendly biological and other inventories for prevention of pollution, development of strategies/technologies, instruments etc.

 

Ecosystem Research Scheme is an inter-disciplinary programme of research, which emphasizes ecological approach for studying all the relationship between man and environment.  The objective of the programme is to develop a basis within the field of natural and social sciences for national use and conservation of resources for general improvement of the relationship between man and his environment.  The programme seeks to provide a scientific basis to solve the practical problems of resource management.  The programme also seeks to provide scientific knowledge and trained personnel needed to mange the natural resources in a rational and sustainable manner.  Ecosystem studies becomes even more important as the Earth’s environmental systems are increasingly being affected at all levels.  Ecological understanding and research in this area offer tangible hope for addressing extremely complex and potentially devastating assaults on local, regional and global ecosystems.  Under the scheme emphasis is laid on multi-disciplinary aspects of environmental conservation with emphasis on eco-system approach consistent with the identified thrust areas and orientation.

 

 

Eastern and Western Ghats Research Programme  addresses itself to location specific problems of resource management in the Eastern and Western Ghats regions of the country.  Under this programme, studies relating to Bio-diversity, land use, impact of developmental activities etc. are taken up.

 

Pitambar Pant National Environment Fellowship Award is awarded annually is in recognition of significantly important research and development contributions and also intended to encourage talented individuals to devote themselves to R&D pursuit in the field of environmental sciences. The duration of the fellowship is for 2 years.

 

B.P. Pal  National Environment Fellowship Award for Biodiversity  is awarded annually is in recognition of significantly important research and development contributions and also intended to encourage talented individuals to devote themselves to R&D pursuit in the field of Biodiversity. The duration of the fellowship is for 2 years.

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.4.00 crores on Plan side.

 

 

248.         G.B. PANT INSTITUTE OF HIMALAYAN ENVIRONMENTAL & DEVELOPMENT

 

The G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment & Development has been identified as a centre to promote strategies for sustainable development in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) through R&D, dissemination of knowledge and networking. The genesis of the Institute goes back to 7th Plan under the auspices of the Planning Commission, Govt. of India in view of the marked emphasis of the Himalayan Mountains particularly with reference to its global recognition of socio-cultural and biological diversity, water-towers, minerals, forest and agricultural products, recreation, and rituals. The Institute functions as an autonomous centre of MOEFs and become functional in 1988.

 

The Institute has continued to function within the approved mandate and R&D programmes.  Larger emphasis is laid to upgrade efforts for land and water management practices in IHR along with identification of strategies for sustainable rural livelihoods and natural resource management. Biodiversity conservation, documentation and investigation, participatory conservation strategies; studies in ecologically sensitive habitat, propagation of ecologically and economically important medicinal and multipurpose plants; hazard assessment using GPS and GIS and hazard mitigation, eco-restoration; impact assessment of hydro-power and other developmental projects; ecological economics of natural and man-made systems; documentation and development of database on indigenous knowledge; and capacity building of local communities for sustainable development are other major areas where institute has made significant strides. Most of these areas fall in the government’s Common Minimum Programme (CMP) to cater the need to the mountain people. The institute is also providing continuous support to local state governments as and when required to meet regional specificities. The R&D and networking of the Institute could be further improved through upgradation of laboratories, and establishment of documentation and outreach cells, for which necessary provisions may be accorded.

 

A few areas, however, deserve early attention to increase the efficiency of its Units and HQs. Infrastructure and manpower development needs utmost attention for upgradation. Capacities building facility need to be upgraded through training, exchange programmes and promoting visiting professionals and experts. A few specialized courses on selected above said themes would be worthwhile along with environmental education cell. Lack of adequate manpower, particularly in Units need to be looked into. Support facilities, such as public relation cell, upgradation of library and information centre, infrastructure at existing unit & HQs are highly warranted and proposed during stipulated period. 

 

INTEGRATED ACTION ORIENTED ECO-RESEARCH PROGRAMME IN THE HIMALAYAN REGION

 

                The programme in the Tenth Five Year Plan with approved goals will continue integrating scientific, social, economic and cultural ingredients for achieving the objectives of socio-economic development together with environmental regeneration/conservation with sufficient funding.  Total funding of the programme in the 10th Plan period is proposed to be enhanced. It is proposed to use this also for the extension of Institute activities/testing and demonstration of technology packages developed etc. in a concerted manner.

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.7.50 crores on Plan side.

 

249.        HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES MANAGEMENT

 

The HSM Division had initiated and implemented various programmes and activities under the Central Plan Scheme “Creation of Management Structure for Hazardous Substances” during the VIII and IXth Five Year Plans.   The thrust areas on which these activities were focussed upon during the IXth Five Year Plan (1997-2002) included Notification of new Rules and Amendments to existing Acts and Rules, identification of sites for setting up of common TSDFs, remediation of contaminated sites, setting up of pilot plants for management of municipal solid waste, implementation of bio-medical wastes Rules, carrying out of hazard analysis and rapid safety audits in various industrial pockets and districts of the country, conduct of training programmes and workshops on management of chemical accidents, preparation of off-site emergency plans, setting up of emergency response centres, emergency preparedness and chemical safety.

 

The need to promote safe management and use of hazardous substances including hazardous chemicals and hazardous wastes in order to avoid damage to health and environment is well recognized.  Towards this end, the following 3 thrust areas have been identified on which the activities of the Division would be focussed during the Xth Plan period  (2002-2007);

 

1.        Chemical Safety

2.        Management of Hazardous Wastes with emphasis on waste minimization and re-cycling

3.        Environmentally Sound Management of Solid Wastes, including flyash & plastic wastes.

 

The important programmes and activities proposed to be carried out under the above mentioned thrust areas during the Xth Plan period are as follows:

 

·         Continuation of District Hazard Analysis studies and preparation of off-site Emergency Plans.

·         Setting up of Emergency Response Centres as per modifications.

·         Providing support to Poison Control Centres.

·         Preparation of  National  & State Inventories on hazardous wastes as per HW Rules 2003.

·         Inventorization of illegal hazardous wastes dump sites & preparation of  remediation plans for the same

·         Provision of support to atleast 15 common facilities for Treatment, Storage and Disposal of Hazardous wastes (TSDF) in different parts of the country.

·         Harmonization of hazardous wastes with the EXIM Policy to regulate the import/export of such wastes.

·         Banning the import & export of hazardous wastes listed in Annexe 8 of the Basel Convention, in phases.

·         Promoting recycling/reprocessing of identified wastes through the Registration Scheme.

·         Setting up of Demonstration Plants for Management of Municipal Solid Wastes including Plastic Wastes.

·         Guidelines/projects on Fly-ash utilization.

·         Strengthening of SPCBs/PCCs to ensure effective implementation of Rules and policies on hazardous substances management. 

·         Continuation of on-going projects and studies on the 3 identified thrust areas as well as initiation of new need based studies.

·         Organization of training programmes and workshops to build capacity and to disseminate information about various Rules and Amendments to concerned stakeholders.

·         Fulfilling of national obligations under the 3 international conventions handled by the Division.

·         Strict and effective implementation of the various Rules on hazardous substance management notified and amended from time to time.

·         Preparation of guidelines/guidance documents on identified thrust areas

·         Implementation of all time-bound tasks & activities in the area of hazardous waste management, contained in the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the matter of WP657/95, delivered on 14th October, 2003.

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.6.00 crores on Plan side.

 

 

250.       BIO-DIVERSITY CONSERVAITON

 

                The scheme envisages to promote projects pertaining to Bio-diversity Conservation Bio-safety and follow up on Bio-diversity Act. Projects are sanctioned to promote sensitization of Bio-diversity issues through workshops and  Bio-diversity monitoring projects. 

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.3.00 crores on Plan side.

 

               

251.      CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT OF  WETLANDS, MANGROVES AND CORAL REEFS

 

The main activities will revolve around release of Central assistance to the concerned State Governments for conservation of wetlands, mangroves & coral reefs for activities like mapping, survey & demarcation, landscape planning, hydrology, control of encroachment, eutrophication, pollution abatement, aquatic weed control, wildlife conservation, fisheries development, research on coastal and marine diversity associated with mangroves & coral reefs, eco-development activities, environmental awareness, etc. under MAPs of identified wetlands, mangroves & coral reef areas  in the country.   The research projects in the field of wetlands, mangroves & coral reefs will be sanctioned as per the guidelines prepared on priority areas of research.  The meetings of National Wetland Committee and National Mangrove Committees and their Research sub-Committee will be convened during the year.   Organisation of Workshop for evaluation of progress of on-going research projects and completed research projects in the field of wetlands, mangroves & coral reefs, and MAPs, will be undertaken.  Circulation of guidelines for monitoring mechanism in regard to MAPs will be completed.  Two directories on wetlands were published earlier.   Work on third directory will be initiated updating the earlier work using remote sensing technology along with ground truth data and adding more wetlands where enough information is available on various aspects.  Process has been initiated to designate more wetland sites from India in the list of Ramsar sites.  

 

Activity-wise Physical targets for 2004-05 are given below :

(Rs. in Crores)

Name of the Activity

Physical Target

Wetlands :

 

 

·         Wetlands have been identified as thrust area for livelihood support of people living in fringe areas and biodiversity. Water conservation becomes a major area of concern in the Common minimum programme. Unlike marine resources like, Mangroves and Coral reefs the wetlands are not biogeographical and species oriented specific ecosystems. They are ubiquitous and play a critical role in flow nutrients and energy.

·         Inclusion of more wetlands under National wetlands conservation Progranme. We have received 47 new wetlands for inclusion. Out of them,38 wetlands have been identified.

·         To concentrate on multi sectoral approach to address to various conservation activities in place of ad hoc approach to get desired results.

·         Involvement of local communities in management and to intrigante traditional knowledge for effective management.

·         Emphasis on hydrological aspects and control of prolific growth of aquatic weeds through latest methods.

·         Capacity building to develop technical and managerial capabilities.

·         Emphasis on integrated approach in place of sectoral approach.

 

Mangroves and Coral Reefs

1.  MAPs on Mangroves & Coral Reefs

2.  Research projects

35 MAPs on mangroves and 4 MAPs on coral reefs

 

On-going and new research projects

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.11.00 crores on Plan side.

 

 

252.         BIOSPHERE RESERVES

 

   The scheme envisages to promote in-situ conservation of pristine eco-systems which are  representatives of Bio-geographic provinces and have global importance.  The purpose is to ensure long term conservation by promoting alternate livelihoods for local inhabitants. The scheme requires annual financial allocation  of Rs. 7.20 crores during 2005-06.

 

 

253.        INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

 

IC&SD Division coordinates matters relating to multilateral, bilateral Programs, training abroad, National Environment Council, matters relating to international regional bodies like SACEP, SAARC, EU etc. and projects under Global Environment Facility (GEF) and Government of India/UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme. An amount of Rs.1.4 crore have been provided for international activities like participation in various convention relating to environment, Global Environment Facility, bilateral cooperation and for making India’s annual contribution to international bodies. 

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs. 2.00 Plan and  Rs.1.39 crores on Plan side.

 

 

254.        STATE OF ENVIRONMENT PROJECT

 

                A new programme has been incorporated in the Tenth Five Year Plan for preparation of State of Environment (SoE) reports/products at the State/UT level with an objective to highlight the upstream and downstream linkages with environmental issues besides creating a baseline document for each State & UT.  An allocation of Rs. 6.00 crores has been made for the programme for the entire Tenth Plan duration. 

 

                This Ministry has identified 4 national host institutes (NHIs) for preparation of SOE at State/UT level. These NHIs assist/build capacity in States/UTs allocated to them in preparation of SOE in each state/UT. These NHIs are as indicated below:

 

                (i)            Development Alternatives, (DA), New Delhi

                (ii)           The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), New Delhi

                (iii)          Environment Protection, Training and Research Institute (EPTRI),

                                Hyderabad

                (iv)          Administrative Staff College of India (ASCI), Hyderabad

 

 

                To guide, supervise and monitor the programme of SoE a National Steering Committee under the chairmanship of JS (SD) has been constituted with members drawn from Planning Commission, CPCB, State Governments, MOEF and 4 NHIs.  The Committee meets from time to time.

 

                 Activities under the programme have been started from FY 2002-03 and will be continued till the end of the Tenth Five Year Plan.  Out of the total allocation of Rs. 6.00 crores, Rs. 2.43 crores has so far been released to these NHIs for carrying out the above programme.   The activities for the FY 2004-2005 are as under:

 

-               Preparation of Draft SoE Report/Product for various States

-               Regional consultations on draft SoE Report

-               Review of the draft SOE Report/Product

-               Facilitating States/UTs in organizing stakeholder Consultations

-               Preparation of final Report/Product

-               Printing of final report

-               Dissemination of Reports/Product

-               Action plan for the next Report/Product

 

                The budget provision for 2005-2006 is Rs.  1.50 crore on Plan side.

 

 

255.    ADAPTATION AND CAPACITY BUILDING PROJECT ON CLIMATE CHANGE

 

Adaptation and Capacity Building Project on Climate Change was initiated during the year 2002-2003.  India hosted the Eighth Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change from 23rd October to 1st November, 2002 at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi.  Over 4300 delegates from all over the world attended the Conference, making it one of the biggest international event of its kind ever held in the country.  In the year 2003-04, Climate Technology Bazaar and International Conferences on Adaptation, Technology Transfer, Climate & Development and CDM were held during November 2003 in New Delhi.  In addition, 22nd Plenary Session of IPCC was hosted in New Delhi during 8 – 11 November 2004.  Delegates from nearly all the countries participated in this important International Conference.

 

                During 2005-2006, ongoing and some new projects relating to climate change would be funded.  Meetings of Climate Change Core Group and National CDM Authority would be organised. Interaction with other countries at bilateral, multilateral and at various international forums, like COP to UNFCCC, IPCC, etc., would be held to safeguard India’s interests on the issues relating to climate change. 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.2.16 crores on Plan side.

 

 

256.        ESTABLISHMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AUTHORITIES, COMMISSIONS AND      

              TRIBUNALS

 

For the National Environment Appellate Authority the yearly rent for the accommodation occupied by the Authority in Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium comes to Rs.1.5 crores approximately.  Hence the total expenditure for the year 2004-05 has been estimated to be about Rs.2.00 crores including Rs.0.5 crores for office expenses, salary, etc.  For the Loss of Ecology (Prevention & Payments of Compensation) Authority of the State of Tamil Nadu the yearly expenditure approved by the Cabinet is Rs.0.75 crores.  The Authority is presently on extension upto 30.9.2006.  If it is given  further extension and continues to exist for the full financial year 2005-06, the expenditure estimated is about Rs.0.75 crores.  The financial requirement for the Environment Pollution (Prevention & Control) Authority for the National Capital Region is estimated as Rs.0.15 crores for its functioning.

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.4.00 crores on Plan side.

 

257.      COMMON EFFLUENT TREATMENT PLANTS (CETPs)

 

The scopes of the CETP projects are to construct the CETPs in the clusters of small and medium scale industries.  It would also be difficult to give the estimated cost of individual projects as the proposals submitted by the proponent would have the details of the financial estimates duly appraised by the financial institutions and approved by the State Government.

 

                An amount of Rs. 25.00 crores has been approved by the Planning Commission for the above Scheme for the whole period of X Five Year Plan 2002-2007.  Out of this, An amount of Rs. 4.00 crores has been allocated by the PC Division in the current financial year and has been utilised fully.  An amount of Rs. 4.40 crores has been proposed  in B.E. 2005-2006 for the above Scheme which can well be utilised.

 

258.       REIMBURSEMENT OF WATER CESS (Non-Plan Scheme)

 

As per revised formula effective from 1.4.1998 of water cess reimbursement to SPCBs/UT PCCs, upto 80% of the cess amount collected by SPCBs/PCCs will be reimbursed to them in accordance with Section 8 of the Water Cess Act, 1977 for meeting their approved expenditure requirements.  Of the cess amount collected, upto 20% will remain with the Central Government for undertaking specific projects in any part of the country through the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) subject to approval by the Central Government. 

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.76.52 crores on Non-Plan side.

 

259.       TAJ  PROTECTION  MISSION

 

The Environmental Management of heritage, pilgrimage and tourism centers is proposed to be taken up to  prevent environmental degradation of these areas.  In compliance with the Supreme Court orders dated 4.9.1996 in the Writ Petition No.13381/84, the Planning Commission estimated (in consultation with the State Government) an amount of Rs.600 crores on a 50:50 per cent (Centre-State) matching basis to implement various schemes relating to protection of the Taj Mahal.

 

                The Ministry of Environment and Forests has vide Notification S.O.No.350(E), dated 17.5.1999 constituted an Authority known as the Taj Trapezium Zone Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority  for monitoring the implementation of various projects undertaken under Taj Protection Mission Scheme.  A Mission Management Board under the Chairmanship of the Chief Secretary, Government of UP has also been constituted for overseeing the implementation, monitoring and reviewing of the various programmes/schemes formulated for the protection of the Taj Mahal.  Schemes were submitted relating to uninterrupted power supply, augmentation of water supply, improvement of drainage and sanitation, city tree plantation in the context of environmental protection of the Taj Mahal. MOEF so far sanctioned 10 projects as a part of the Taj Protection Mission and another seven projects are in the pipe line.  The total cost of these projects is about Rs. 44.00 crores and spread over during tenth Five Year Plan. 

 

                It is now proposed that similar efforts should be mounted for environmental management of other such areas also. Important sites will be selected and detailed management plans will be implemented at these places.  The EFC for additional seven projects has been drafted and comments of Finance Division have been sought.  The draft EFC would be circulated for comments shortly.

 

                The budget provision for 2005-2006 is Rs.  0.01 crores on Plan side.

 

 

 

 

 

260.      ALL INDIA COORDINATED PROJECT ON TAXONOMY (AICOPTAX)

 

                (Rs. in crores)

Name of the Activity

Physical Target

All India Coordinated Project on Taxonomy Capacity Building.

 

 

Servicing of ongoing projects.

New projects

 

 

The budget provision for 2005-06 is Rs.1.80 crores on Plan side.

 

 

261.    ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT CAPACITY BUILDING TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROJECT (WORLD BANK AIDED)

 

Under the project for strengthening the country’s Environmental Management Plans and capacity building, several sub-components have been included for funding.  These are Environmental Research, Environmental Standards, Environmental Economics, and introduction of Environmental Education in school system. NGO Environmental Action Fund, Environmental Law, Mining Sector, Zoning Atlas, Ambient Air Quality Monitoring, Coastal and Marine Area  Management, Institutional Strengthening and Gujarat State Environmental Action Plan.

 

The progress of implementation of the project was reviewed periodically by a team of experts from the World Bank and suggestions made to overcome slippages.  Closer monitoring was also done periodically by the Ministry at senior level to ensure that execution of the project was not retarded.  The initial problems were overcome.  The Mid Term Review of the Project commenced in June 1999 and completed in June, 2001.  It was found that there had been shortfalls both in terms of physical and financial achievements.   Another IDA Mission visited India in October, 2000 to give final touches to the amendments in the Development Credit Agreement.  The amendment letter restructuring and streamlining the project was signed by all concerned parties during May-June, 2001 to pave the way for accelerated implementation of the project in all the areas and allowing new components included in the project to take off.  An ‘envelope approach’ has also been adopted for the project allowing interse transfer of funds to components demonstrating better performance. The IDA Mission last reviewed the project during 7th- 11th October, 2002, and found that there was need to extend the project which has, in fact, been extended  upto 30.6.2004 with the approval  of the  Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs and activity plan for the extended period finalized & sent to the World Bank within the restructured outlay of US$ 29.62 million of the project. The residual activities of Industrial Pollution Prevention Project were also folded into the capacity building project w.e.f. 1.12.2002.  The capacity building project has finally closed on 30.6.2004 and its overall performance has been rated as satisfactory by the World Bank Supervision Mission.

 

           The project has ended on 30.6.2004

 

 

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