(a) whether the Government of Karnataka is reluctant to the proposal of tobacco crop holiday for 2000-2001 in the State;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(b) the tobacco crop size allowed for cultivation to the Karnataka; and
(d) the steps taken to dispose off the unsold tobacco lying with the tobacco traders?
MINISTER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (SHRI MURASOLI MARAN)
(a) Yes, Sir.
(b) The successful marketing of the Karnataka Tobacco crop has negated the demand for a crop holiday.
(c) FCV tobacco crop size fixed for 2000-2001 Karnataka season is 25 M.Kgs.
(d) A delegation visited Libya, Jordan, Egypt and Algeria in February, 2000 to promote Indian tobacco exports. Another Indian tobacco trade delegation including STC representatives visited Russia to explore opportunities for tobacco export. Further, a delegation will be visiting countries like China, Vietnam, South Korea and Taiwan to find new market for export of tobacco.