Question : CULTURAL AGREEMENTS

(a) the details of countries with which the Government has signed cultural agreements;

(b) the number out of them with whom Government has developed cultural exchange programmes;

(c) the steps taken by the Government to develop cultural exchange programmes with remaining countries;

(d) whether big sum is earmarked for Indian mission abroad to promote cultural ties with other countries, but larger a part of money is diverted; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER FOR INFORMATION & BROADCASTING AND CULTURE (SHRI S. JAIPAL REDDY)

(a)&(b) Details of Agreements and Cultural Exchange Programmes executed between India and other countries are at Annexure ‘A’ and ‘B’.

(c) Government has initiated dialogues and discussions with other countries also for formulation of Cultural Exchange Programmes.

(d) & (e) Information is being collected and shall be laid on the table of the House.