Question : AGREEMENT WITH BANGLADESH MANGOLIA FOR DEVELOPMENT OF AGRICULTURE

(a) whether an agreement has been signed by India with Bangladesh and Mangolia for cooperation in the field of agriculture;

(b) if so, the details of the agreement; and

(c) the time by which the said agreement in likely to come into effect?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE

(SHRI SBPBK SATYANARAYANA RAO)

(a) to (c): A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation in the field of Agriculture was signed between India and Bangladesh on 22nd January, 2000. As per the terms of the MOU both countries shall promote development of cooperation in agricultural science and technology, agricultural production and agro processing through joint activities, programmes, exchange of scientific materials, information and personnel. The joint activities may include areas of agriculture research, animal husbandry, fisheries, agriculture extension, seeds production etc. The MOU provides for Biennial Work Plans to be drawn up by mutual agreement between the two countries to give effect to the objectives of the MOU and a Joint Agricultural Working Group to provide guidance, and review the progress of activities under the Memorandum. The MOU came into effect on 22nd January, 2000.

An Agreement for cooperation in the field of agriculture between the Government of India and the Government of Mongolia was signed on 16th September, 1996. The Agreement provides for Scientific, Technical and Economic cooperation in various areas of agriculture. The Agreement also provides for Work Plans to be drawn up by mutual agreement containing specific proposals/activities to be taken up for implementation under the Agreement. A Work Plan for cooperation in the field of agriculture between the Government of India and the Government of Mongolia was signed on 28th January, 2000. The Work Plan contains proposals for exchange of