Question : JOINT INSPECTION OF INDO CHINA GROUP

(a) whether a team of Indian and Chinese scientists have been formed to embark on a joint expedition in the Himalayas to find out the exact source of Brahmaputra and Sutlej;

(b) if so, the details thereof indicating the areas to be covered and time allowed therefor;

(c) whether the Indian Mountaineering Foundation and the Beijing-based Chinese Academy of Sciences have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the agreement in New Delhi in December, 2006; and

(d) if so, the time by which the experts of both the countries will submit their report to the Government?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES (SHRI JAI PRAKASH NARAYAN YADAV)

(a) & (b) As per Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between President, Indian Mountaineering Foundation and Director, Chinese Academy of Sciences, six scientists from India and China and two climbers

(from India) and some support members are to undertake a joint expedition in June 2007 to the sources of two great rivers Brahmaputra and Sutlej. The study area is mainly restricted in Tibet and the Brahmaputra valley. As per MoU, the duration of the study is 4-5 years, 24 days each expedition.


(c) Yes Sir, MoU was signed in December, 2006


(d) There is no provision in the MoU for submission of report to the nodal Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports.