(a): whether Bamboo is a source of sustainable livelihood in the rural sector and West Bengal has great potential in this sector;
(b): whether Government proposes to help and encourage the cash strapped State of West Bengal to boost its growth to improve the rural economy of the State;and
(c): if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF SMALL SCALE INDUSTRIES & AGRO AND RURAL INDUSTRIES (SHRI MAHABIR PRASAD)
(a): Yes, Sir.
(b)&(c):The Government (in the Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture and Cooperation) is launching a new Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Bamboo Mission (NBM) in 28 States (including West Bengal) at a total cost of Rs. 568.23 crore, including an outlay of Rs. 91.37 crore during 2006-07 (X Plan), and next four years of the XI Five Year Plan.