Question : Restoration of Wetlands-Lakes

(a) the number of wetlands/lakes dried up or are on the verge of drying up during the last two years in Maharashtra;
(b) the details of number of wetlands/lakes restored during the last two years under the National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS) programme, State/UT-wise;
(c) whether the funds sanctioned to States under the NNRMS programme are being fully utilised by the State/UT Governments;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) if not, the steps taken by the Government toachieve its objectives under the said programme?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
(SHRI BABUL SUPRIYO)

(a) As informed by the Government of Maharashtra, the wetlands dry up due to various reasons like variation in monsoon season, unplanned development around water bodies resulting in blockage of seasonal and perennial water channel, disposal of local untreated sewage along with municipal solid waste and depletion in ground water recharge.

(b) to (e) The National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS) is a Central Sector Scheme providing grant for research projects to Academic institutions, Universities, National institutes, recognized R&D institutions and reputed NGOs. No specific funds are given to the particular State/UTs Government. During the last two years,no research project has been sanctioned on restoration of Wetlands / Lakes under the NNRMS scheme.

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