Question : LIBRARY FOR BLINDS

(a) whether a proposal of Rashtriya Andha VaJankalyan Bahuuddeshiya Sanstha, Parsodi, Gopal Nagar, Nagpur for grant-in-aid under the Central Government scheme for establishing a Helan Kelar Library for the Blinds has been pending for consideration of the Government since 1995;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether Members of Parliament have also written to him to expedite the approval in this regard;

(d) if so, the details thereof;

(e) whether the Government has since taken a final decision in the matter; and

(f) if so, the details thereof and if not, the time by which a decision is likely to be taken?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE & EMPOWERMENT (DR. SANJAY PASWAN)

(a) & (b) Proposal seeking assistance for setting up a Library for the Blinds received from Rashtriya Andha Va Jankalyan Bahuddeshiya Sanstha, Parsodi, Gopal Nagar was examined and found to be incomplete in respect of certain documents such as registration certificate, justification for the project, memorandum of association and bye laws, detailed list of beneficiaries and staff, annual reports, complete audited accounts etc. The organization was advised to send these documents/information. No reply was received till March 2002 when the proposal was revived through a fresh recommendation from the State Govt under the present Scheme to Promote Voluntray Action for Persons with Disabilities.

(c)& (d) Yes, Sir. Shri Naresh Puglia, MP, vide communication dated 23.3.99 and 5.2.2002 and Shri Vilas Mutemvar, MP, vide letter dated 17.12.2000 had reminded to expedite the case.

(e) & (f) The proposal received form the State Government in March 2002 was referred to Ali Yavar Jung National Institute for Hearing Impaired, Mumbai, (AJYNIHH), for a technical evaluation report. The report pointed out certain deficiencies such as non availability of beneficiaries on the day of inspection; lack of networking with other NGOs; need for wider publicity of the activities and the desirability of shifting the project from the existing location. Clarification on the above shortcomings and additional information on library activities have been sought from the organization. Final decision about sanction of grant in aid assistance would depend on receipt of a satisfactory reply from them.