(a) whether India and Afghanistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Small
Development Projects;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the progress so far made in this regard?
(a) whether India and Afghanistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Small
Development Projects;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) the progress so far made in this regard?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)
(a) Yes. The Government of India has signed an MOU with the Government of Afghanistan
on Small Development Projects (SDPs) on August 28, 2005.
(b) Small-scale developmental projects are short gestation with direct impact on community
life.Apart from transfer of know-how and technology,this scheme will also entail grass-roots
participation and community ownership through involvement of local bodies, non-governmental
organizations, charitable trusts and educational and vocational institutions.These projects
are primarily in area of health care, education, horticulture, water and sanitation.These
projects are identified by Government of Afghanistan in consultation with local bodies concerned.
(c) 65 projects have been approved under this scheme so far and are being implemented.