Question : EMPLOYMENT GENERATION IN ASSAM .

(a) Whether the Union Government proposes to generate employment and stimulate the economy of Assam amounting to 320 crores spread over a period of 3 years;

(b) If so, whether any proposal had been submitted by Assam in July, 2005 for 100% Central Assistance besides normal plan, special plan and Additional Central Assistance (ACA);

(c) If so, whether the Prime Minister had advised Planning Commission to formulate, the State`s proposal in order to finance unemployment in the state;

(d) If so, whether the task force report of Planning Commission has recommended for 5000 crores additional investment in the NER; and

(e) If so, the details thereof?

MINISTEFR OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PLANNING (SHRI M.V. RAJASEKHARAN)

(a) to (e): During his visit to the State of Assam in November, 2004, the Prime Minister desired that a blueprint for employment generation for Assam be prepared. At the request of Planning Commission, the State Government of Assam has prepared a scheme for generation of employment at an estimated cost Rs.669 crore which comprises of Rs.349 crore as Farmer and Bank Contribution and Rs.320 crore is cost to the Mission. Funding of the scheme should come from the State sector. Any gaps can be filled up out of funds being provided by the Planning Commission as Special Plan Assistance/ Additional Central Assistance to the State. During 2006-07 the State Government has provided Rs.10 crore for the scheme. The Task Force of Planning Commission has been constituted for a different purpose.