Question : SHIFTING OF WOOD CARVING CENTRES

(a) whether the artisans engaged in Timber Industry are living in unhygenic conditions in the country particularly in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh;

(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the steps taken by the Government in this regard;

(c) Whether the fund allocated by the Government for the development of timber artisans during the last three years have been diverted for other purposes;

(d) if so, the details thereof alongwith the steps taken to ensure that the funds are not diverted;

(e) whether the wood carving and designing centre in Saharanpur is being shifted to Delhi-Saharanpur highway;

(f) If so, the details thereof alongwith the reasons thereof;

g) Whether the Government has received any representation from wood carving union in this regard; and

h) if so, the action taken by the Government in this regard?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (SHRI E.V.K.S. ELANGOVAN)

(a) No, Sir.

(b) Does not arise.

(c) No, Sir.

(d) Does not arise.

(e) to (h) The Wood Craft Design and Common Facility Centre is being set up in the premises of District Industry Centre Saharanpur on Delhi Road. A representation from Wood Carving Manufacturers & Exporters Association, Saharanpur addressed to District Collector, Saharanpur has been received. As the project cost did not include the cost of land and no free land was available on Ambala Road, a decision was taken to set up the Centre in the District Industries Centre premises, which is approximately 6 – 8 KM from Ambala Road, Saharanpur.