(a) whether adequate funds are provided for the implementation of various schemes/programmes for the benefit/welfare of youth and sports activities in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the remedial steps taken thereon; and
(c) the action taken to expand the programmes of various schemes namely, Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan, Scouting and Guiding and the National Service Scheme etc.?
THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR SKILL DEVELOPMENT, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS (SHRI SARBANANDA SONOWAL)
(a) Yes, Madam.
(b) The details are given at Annexure.
(c) Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) undertakes various programmes at grass-root level through District level Kendras and its network of about 2.77 lakh affiliated youth clubs/mahila mandals with about 80.12 lakh youth members. The number of District level Kendras has been increased from 501 to 623 w.e.f. 17.10.2011. An Evaluation Study of NYKS was entrusted to an independent agency, which has submitted its Report on 16th July, 2014. The recommendations are being examined for their implementation, so that NYKS functioning can be further expanded/improved. Regarding National Service Scheme (NSS), necessary Government approvals are being obtained for additional funding for further increasing the NSS strength from current level of 32.58 lakh volunteers. In addition, self-financing units of NSS are being promoted. As for the scouting and guiding activities, an amount of Rs.1.00 crore has been earmarked for assistance to scouting and guiding organizations for various activities.