(a) the action taken by the Government so far to launch a comprehensive national
programme for minor irrigation of all lands owned by dalits and adivasis;
(b) whether the Government has taken any steps to give land to the landless families through
implementation of land ceiling;
(c) if so, whether the Government has taken any steps to introduce land redistribution
legislation; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)
(a): The Government is implementing `Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme` (AIBP) in
special category States comprising North Eastern States and Hill States (Jammu & Kashmir,
Himachal Pradesh, Uttranchal) and Kalahandi, Bolangir and Koraput districts of Orissa since
1999-2000. Preference is given to tribal areas and drought prone areas which benefits Dalits and
Adivasis. A pilot scheme `National Project for Repair, Renovation and Restoration of Water
Bodies Directly Linked to Agriculture` has also been approved in January, 2005. Under the
Scheme, priority is accorded to backward and tribal dominated districts. A special programme to
provide 100% financial assistance to States for taking up Minor Irrigation Scheme for Scheduled
Tribes` land has also been initiated during 2005-06. Besides, minor irrigation activities are also
being promoted under the schemes of Swaranjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) and On
Farm Water Management for Increasing Crop Production in Eastern India.
(b) to (d): Land and its management falls within the legislative and administrative
jurisdiction of the States as provided under Entry No. 18 of State list (II) of Seventh Schedule of
Constitution of India. States have enacted ceiling laws pertaining to agricultural land holdings.
Redistribution of available surplus land is done in accordance with the legal provisions made by
the respective States.