Question : SOVIET DEBT BURDEN ON INDIA



(a) whether during the recent visit of the Russian President to New Delhi, the question of Soviet debt burden on India was discussed;

(b) if so, the precise issues and proposals discussed therein; and

(c) the debt burden outstanding as on date?

Answer given by the minister


Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance (SHRI BALASAHEB VIKHE PATIL)

(a) and (b) During discussions with the President of the Russian Federation, the question of trade and economic cooperation through the rupee repayment track was touched upon.

(c) The `Soviet debt burden on India` at present is about Rs. 18,683 crores.