(a) whether the Army`s Western Command Headquarters, Chandimandir has requested the Himachal Pradesh Government for handing over few hundred acres of selected land at Una district in the State so that a military station could be set up there;
(b) if so, whether the Himachal Pradesh Government has given permission for handing over the said land; and
(c) if so, the details thereof and the time by which final decision is likely to be taken in this regard?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI GEORGE FERNANDES)
(a) to (c): Himachal Pradesh Government had indicated willingness to offer land in Una to the Army in two pockets separated by a strip of land. The Army Authorities while accepting the offer in principle, for locating their units and establishments, requested the State Government to offer land in one pocket, keeping in view the security considerations. The State Government has, therefore, indicated 790 acres of land in Una. The Board of Officers has been ordered to ascertain the suitability of the land and the issue will be further examined on receipt of the Board proceedings.