(a) whether the Union Government has conducted any assessment to find out the ground
realities, problem and difficulties of remote and border areas of the States including North
Eastern States for implementing the schemes for development of these states.
(b) if so, the outcome thereof;
(c) if not, the reasons therefor; and
(d) the special steps taken by the Government in this regard ?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PLANNING
(SHRI M.V. RAJASEKHARAN)
(a) to (d): No such assessment has been carried out. However, Government is aware of the
difficulties faced by the people of remote and inaccessible border areas. Border Area
Development Programme(BADP) is being implemented in the border areas specifically with
focus on socio-economic development and to promote sense of security among the people
living there. Special weightage of 15% has been given to the hilly states including North
Eastern States. Further emphasis in being given to the development of areas closer to the
border. In addition, developmental programmes and projects are also taken up by the
states of North East including border areas under NEC and NLCPR.