(a) whether his attention has been drawn to the steady deterioration of the State of Affairs of the National Library in Kolkata;
(b) if so, the factors responsible thereof; and
(c) the steps being taken to tone up the administration of this historical institution and to restore its former glory?
MINISTER FOR TOURISM AND CULTURE (SHRI JAGMOHAN)
(a) to (c) The National Library Kolkata is a subordinate office of the Department of Culture. Government is of the view that there is room for improvement in the functioning of the National Library. A number of steps have been taken to revamp and strengthen the National Library. An Advisory Board under the chairmanship of Minister (Tourism and Culture) has been reconstituted to provide policy advice and guidance for development of the National Library. A Board of Management has been formed to draw up and monitor the annual action plan for the Library. An Expert Committee has been appointed to consider ways and means to improve its functioning. To overcome the shortage of space, a new building costing Rs.77 crores is under construction and is expected to be functional by January 2003. Vigorous efforts are being made in consultation with UPSC to identify a suitable Director for the National Library.