Question : ASSISTANCE TO LOSS INCURRING RURAL INDUSTRIES

(a) the number of rural industries set up by Khadi Gramodyog Commission in villages of the country, particularly in Himachal Pradesh and the number of persons working therein;

(b) the number of registered rural industries/institutions, State- wise;

(c) the present financial condition of these industries and the number of industries out of them earning profit/incurring losses;

(d) whether any scheme has been formulated to provide assistance to loss incurring industries; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

THE MINISTER OF AGRO AND RURAL INDUSTRIES ( SHRI KARIYA MUNDA )

(a): As on 31st March 2001, a total number of 1,19,714 projects have been financed by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission and 11 lakhs jobs have been created under the Rural Employment Generation Programme (REGP). 458 projects have been financed and 4176 jobs generated upto 31.03.2001, in Himachal Pradesh under the REGP.

(b): The information in respect of State-wise registered rural industries/institutions is not maintained centrally.

(c) to (e): Information in respect to profit/loss of individual units is not maintained centrally. However, the Government had announced a package for promotion and development of KVI sector on 14.5.2001, which is under different phases of implementation. The package consists of Rebate Policy for five years, option of Rebate and Market Development Assistance (MDA), Insurance cover to Khadi artisans, emphasis on improvement of Khadi products, creation of packaging and design facilities, measures to promote marketing, brand building, cluster development etc.