(a) whether the Union Government`s spending on Anti-poverty programmes is not large as
compared to the magnitude of rural poverty in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this
regard;
(c) whether it is a view expressed in certain quarters that MPs should be involved in
implementation of these programmes; and
(d) if so, the response of the Government thereto?
MINISTER OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT ( SHRI M. VENKAIAH NAIDU)
(a) & (b): The Government have adopted a three pronged strategy for reducing poverty comprising
(i) accelerated economic growth with a focus on sectors which are employment intensive;
(ii) human and social development through provision of basic minimum services; and
(iii) targeted anti-poverty programmes. While economic growth continue to be the prime factor for reducing the poverty, targeted anti-poverty programmes supplement the growth effort and protect the poor from destitution, sharp fluctuations in employment and incomes, and social insecurity. The major Rural Poverty Alleviation Programmes have been restructured and redesigned in order to improve their efficacy/impact on the poor with effect from 1999-2000. The Ministry of Rural Development have released an amount of Rs. 7164.83 crore during 2000-2001 for the Anti-poverty programmes.
(c) & (d): The Members of Parliament (MPs) are Members of the Governing Body of District Rural Development Agencies (DRDAs), which provides guidance and direction to DRDAs in the implementation of the Rural Development Programmes. The MPs are also ex-officio Members of the Zilla Parishads. The MPs in their capacity as Members of Zilla Parishads are closely involved in the task of monitoring the implementation of poverty alleviation programmes being implemented in their districts. Further, the role of MPs has been specifically outlined in the guidelines of the Employment Assurance Scheme (EAS). The scheme will be implemented through the Zilla Parishads and selection of works is decided after due consultation with the MP of that area. However, in the absence of Zilla Parishad, a committee comprising MLAs, MPs and other public representatives would be constituted for the selection of works. All States have been advised to set up Vigilance and Monitoring Committees at State/Dis!
trict and Block levels with representation from MPs/MLAs also. The Hon`ble Prime Minister met the leaders of the Political Parties in Parliament to discuss the issue of management of anti-poverty programmes and the involvement of MPs in the implementation of these programmes, on 8th December, 2000.