Question : AGREEMENT IN THE FIELD OF INFORMATION

(a) whether the Government of India have signed agreements with foreign countries for expanding bilateral co-operation in the field of information and provide investment in e-commerce and internet applications;

(b) if so, the details of MoUs signed/likely to be signed with each country as on date;

(c) the extent to which India would be benefited through these agreements;

(d) whether any foreign country has provided financial assistance for this purpose;

(e) whether the Government has any intention to further relax overseas acquisition norms for Information Technology companies;

(f) if so, the details with reasons therefor; and (g) the likely achievements on bilateral trade during the next three years?

MINISTER OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

(SHRI PRAMOD MAHAJAN)

(a) and (b): The Ministry of Information Technology has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with the Governments of Russia, Egypt, Bulgaria, Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong, Mauritius and Ireland for cooperation in various areas of Information Technology inter-alia e-commerce and internet applications.

(c): These MoUs are expected to boost bilateral cooperation as well as bilateral trade in the areas of internet.


(d): No, Sir.

(e): The Government reviews this matter from time to time after taking into account all the relevant factors.

(f): Does not arise.

(g): No specific targets have been visualized in this regard.