Question : ASSISTANCE TO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS

(a) the number of camps opened along LoC to provide relief/medical assistance to the victims affected by the recent earthquake;

(b) whether the Government proposes to open more camps and has also decided to open LoC for smooth movement of relief material and relief workers across the borders;

(c) if so, the details in this regard;

(d) whether communication facilities have been provided to people of J&K to contact their relatives in PoK;

(e) if so, the details along with the amount of assistance provided by India so far;

(f) whether Pakistan has accepted the entire relief material so provided;

(g) if so, the details thereof; and

(h) the measures adopted by both the Governments to ensure that no undue advantage is taken of the leniency so provided?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI E. AHMED)

(a) to (h) A statement is placed on the Table of the House.

Statement as mentioned in reply to the Lok Sabha Starred Question No. 6

(Priority VI) for answer on 23.11.05 regarding `Assistance to earthquake Victims`

(a) to (h) : India has provided substantial quantities of relief material to Pakistan in the aftermath of the October 8, 2005 earthquake. On October 26, 2005, India announced a US $ 25 million aid package for Pakistan. So far about 1,300 tonnes of relief material have been handed over to Pakistani authorities. India has taken part in an International Donors Conference organised by the Government of Pakistan on November 19, 2005 in Islamabad.
India has opened five crossing points across the LoC at Teetwal-Nauseri, Uri-Chakoti, Uri-Hajipir, Poonch-Rawalakot, and Mendhar-Tattapani. These would be used for movement of relief material and people from either side. Government has taken security implications of opening the crossing points into account and people and goods will be able to cross over only after due procedure and checks have been completed.
India has set up special telephone centers in J&K to provide facilities for free calls by Indian nationals to their relatives in Pakistan/POK. India also initiated arrangements to open relief camps along the LOC at Kaman, Poonch and Teetwal. However, Pakistan did not accept that proposal.
India has assured the Government and the people of Pakistan affected by the earthquake its full support in their relief and rehabilitation efforts.