Question : ASSISTANCE FOR IRRIGATION PROJECTS

(a) whether the Union Government provides assistance for irrigation projects in areas included under the Desert Development Programme (DDP) at par with the Drought Prone Area Programme (DPAP) and the Tribal Areas Development (TAD) areas for the Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) scheme;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Union Government has received any proposals from the State Governments in this regard; and

(d) if so, the details thereof including the action taken by the Union Government thereon?

THE MINISTER OF WATER RESOURCES ( SHRI HARISH RAWAT )

(a) to (d) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

Statement referred to in reply to Lok Sabha Starred Question No. 91 due for reply on 29.11.2012 regarding “Assistance for Irrigation Projects”.

(a)&(b) The scheme of Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of water bodies is being implemented by Ministry of Water Resources since X Plan. During X and XI Plan, Water Bodies covered under Desert Development Programme (DDP) were not treated at par with Drought Prone Area Programme (DPAP) and Tribal areas. However, during XII Plan, it is proposed to treat DDP areas at par with DPAP areas and Tribal areas.

(c)&(d) Yes, Madam. Government of Rajasthan has submitted a proposal in July, 2012 for funding of 19 water bodies amounting to Rs. 34.53 crore under Desert Development Programme. The proposal was examined and additional information has been asked from the Government of Rajasthan.