Question : SCHEME FOR BACKWARD DISTRICTS .

(a) Whether the Union Government has finalised the new scheme to provide assistance/grants to the backward districts of the country on the lines of the existing Rashtriya Sam Vikas Yojana;

(b) If so, the details of the scheme including the criteria for allocation of funds to the States;

(c)Whether such a scheme has already been implemented in the States;

(d) If so, the details of the districts selected in the country and the funds earmarked, State- wise;

(e) Whether the State Government of Orissa has requested for inclusion of more districts in view of its economic backwardness;

(f) If so, the reaction of the Government thereto; and (g) The steps being taken by the Union Government for the speedy development of the backward areas of the country and the success achieved as a result thereof?

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

(a): In place of Rashtriya Sam Vikas Yojana, a new scheme, namely, the Backward Regions Grant Fund to be operationalised from the current financial year is under finalization.

(b) to (d): Do not arise.

(e): Yes, Sir.

(f): The request of the State Government will be kept in view while finalizing the scheme.

(g): The Backward Regions Grant Fund aimed at speedy development of the backward districts of the country is under finalisation.