Statement

Will the minister of ELECTRONICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state: (a) the total value of electronics exports from India since 2015 and the share of domestic value addition in these exports; (b) the total value and volume of imported electronic components particularly semiconductor chips, display units and precision electronics since 2015, year and country-wise; (c) the total domestic requirement for such components during the same period, year and sector-wise; (d) the estimated demand for skilled workers in the electronics manufacturing 18.03.2026 190 sector over the next five years; and (e) the current availability of skilled workforce including details of skilling initiatives undertaken, number of beneficiaries trained and finally placed during the last ten years? THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY; AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ELECTRONICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI JITIN PRASADA): (a) to (e) : Guided by the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Government is committed to developing a comprehensive and globally competitive electronics manufacturing ecosystem in the country. The strategy aims to deepen manufacturing capabilities from finished products to sub-assemblies, and further to components, machinery and tools, thereby increasing the domestic value addition and also reducing import dependence. To promote manufacturing of electronic goods, the Government has launched several flagship schemes, including the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Large Scale Electronics Manufacturing (2020), the Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) (2020), and the PLI Scheme for IT Hardware (2023). In addition, the Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC and EMC 2.0) Scheme has been implemented to provide plug-and-play infrastructure with 18.03.2026 191 ready land, utilities and common facilities, thereby reducing project implementation time and improving manufacturing efficiency. For semiconductor manufacturing, the Government launched Semicon India Programme to build manufacturing capability across all the value chain of semiconductors. Growth in electronics manufacturing: As a result of these initiatives, electronics manufacturing in India has expanded significantly in the last 11 years (tabulated ahead). Industry estimates indicate that domestic value addition in electronics manufacturing has improved significantly over the years and is currently 18%-20%. # 2014-15 2024-25 Remarks Production of electronics goods (Rs.) ~1.9 Lakh crore ~11.3 Lakh croreIncreased 6 times Export of electronics goods (Rs.) ~0.38 Lakh crore~3.3 Lakh crore Increased 8 times Production of mobile phones (Rs.) ~0.18 Lakh crore~5.5 Lakh crore Increased 28 times Export of mobile phones (Rs.) ~0.01 Lakh crore~ 2 Lakh crore Increased 127 times Import of electronics components: Electronics manufacturing value chain is extremely complex. It involves multiple processes such as design, manufacturing of active and passive components, assembly, testing, packaging and final production. Multiple organizations/companies operating in different countries 18.03.2026 192 undertake these processes. It may further be noted that over 75% of global electronics trade operates through Global Value Chains (GVCs) which source their components both domestically and internationally. As electronics manufacturing increases in India, our country integrates with GVCs. The year-wise production and exports of electronics and imports of electronic components (including semiconductors and display module) from 2014-15 to 2024-25 is placed at Statement. India Semiconductor Mission: Further, Semiconductors constitute almost 70% share of electronic component imports. Therefore, with a view to developing domestic manufacturing capability across the semiconductor value chain, the Government has launched the Semicon India Programme to promote semiconductor and display manufacturing. Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme: For manufacturing components other than the semiconductors the government launched Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) in April 2025 with an aim to further deepen the electronics manufacturing, reduce import of components and develop a robust electronics component supply chain ecosystem. The scheme aims to develop manufacturing of key components which, inter-alia, include Printed Circuit Board (PCB), Display modules, Camera modules, Capacitors, Resistors Electro-Mechanicals, Li-ion Cells for digital applications, etc. 18.03.2026 193 Response to ECMS scheme: The scheme has received enthusiastic response from industry. A total of 249 applications have been received. Against the investment target of Rs. 59,350 crores, investment commitments of Rs. 1.15 lakh crores have been received. Taking cognizance of the strong industry response Government also enhanced budgetary outlay of the scheme from Rs. 22,919 crores to Rs. 40,000 crores. As per the NITI Aayog (Trade Watch Quarterly Report), India’s electronics manufacturing is expected to reach USD 500 billion by FY30. This growth is projected to create around 6 million direct and indirect jobs. Skill development: To enable skill development in the ESDM sector, MeitY implemented two schemes, namely:  “Scheme for Financial Assistance to select States/UTs for Skill Development in Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) Sector” (Scheme-1)  “Skill Development in ESDM for Digital India” (Scheme-2) The scheme concluded on 30.08.2025. Under both the Schemes, 4,93,919 candidates were enrolled/trained and 3,75,289 candidates have been certified. The National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) through its wide network of own centres and Accredited Training Partners/Facilitation Centres, has trained more than 43 Lakh candidates in last 18.03.2026 194 5 years under various Degree/Diploma Level Courses and Skill-Based Courses (Long Term and Short Term), including the Digital Literacy and Cyber Security Programmes across the country. NIELIT has also launched the NIELIT Digital University (NDU) Platform under MeitY to deliver online and blended skill-based courses in emerging technology areas. This Platform is designed to offer future-ready, industry- aligned programs in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and other frontier domains. This platform also features built-in virtual labs for real-time experimentation in Semiconductor Design, cybersecurity, Cyber Forensics, Industry 4.0, and other emerging domains. Through the NDU platform, every learner can have access anytime- anywhere to NSQF-aligned courses. So far more than 55,000 candidates have registered through NDU Platform. Govt has taken the following steps to develop a strong semiconductor talent pipeline through academic programmes, industry partnerships and national skilling initiatives: i. Under the Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme, advanced Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools from leading companies are made available to 315 academic institutions, enabling students and start- ups to undertake chip design, research and training activities. The programme aims to generate 85,000 industry-ready professionals, of which over 68,000 students have already been trained. 18.03.2026 195 ii. A Skilled Manpower Advanced Research and Training (SMART) Lab has been setup in NIELIT Calicut with an aim to train 1 lakh engineers in the domains of VLSI, Embedded Systems and IoT. More than 1 lakh candidates have already been trained. iii. The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) has also partnered with LAM Research for conducting a large-scale training programme in nanofabrication and process-engineering skills. These would further augment skilled workforce for ATMP and advanced packaging. The program aims to generate 60,000 trained manpower in next 10 years. iv. Further, under the FutureSkills PRIME programme, implemented by MeitY in partnership with NASSCOM, online courses are offered for skilling, reskilling and upskilling in emerging technologies including semiconductors. Portal can be accessed at https://futureskillsprime.in, anytime-anywhere to earn skill certificates in line with their aptitude and aspirations. 18.03.2026 196 STATEMENT Electronics Production and Exports and imports of electronic components Years Electronic Production (in Rs. Cr) Electronic Exports (in Rs. Cr) Electronic Component Imports (in Rs. Cr) 2014-15 1,90,366 38,263 32,935 2015-16 2,43,263 39,064 46,772 2016-17 3,17,331 39,980 56,373 2017-18 3,88,306 41,220 65,621 2018-19 4,58,006 61,908 1,10,393 2019-20 5,33,550 82,929 1,15,558 2020-21 5,54,461 81,822 1,12,927 2021-22 6,40,810 1,16,895 1,93,745 2022-23 8,25,000 1,89,934 2,01,921 2023-24 9,52,000 2,41,157 2,84,601 2024-25 11,32,752 3,27,187 3,11,508 Source: Export-MeitY Annual report, DGCIS and MoC trade analytics portal) Semiconductor Financial Year Imports Value (in Rs. Cr) Volume (Million) 2014-15 8,798 2,809 2015-16 10,305 3,770 2016-17 11,656 4,432 2017-18 15,051 5,165 2018-19 61,473 10,596 2019-20 71,581 12,188 2020-21 67,497 11,256 2021-22 1,01,739 17,892 2022-23 1,29,702 14,644 2023-24 1,71,483 18,434 2024-25 2,08,612 21,228 Source: DGCIS 18.03.2026 197 Display module (HSN Code 8524*) Financial Year Imports Value (in Rs. Cr) Volume (Million) 2022-23 15,727 183 2023-24 25,920 409 2024-25 41,192 1,105 Source: DGCIS *Note: HSN Code 8524 was introduced/created with effect from FY 2022-23. REDEVELOPMENT OF KOVILPALAYAM RAILWAY STATION 4150. SHRI ESWARASAMY K.: Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government is aware that the Kovilpalayam railway station on the Coimbatore-Pollachi line has remained non-functional since the broad- gauge conversion and if so, the details thereof; (a) whether any proposal has been received/considered for the reconstruction of a passenger platform and providing of a stoppage for the Coimbatore- Pollachi passenger train at Kovilpalayam and if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Government has examined the feasibility of executing such works under the Station Redevelopment Programme or through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds and if so, the details thereof; and (d) the estimated cost and timeline for the proposed revival of the Kovilpalayam station and the steps taken/being taken by the Government to expedite it? 18.03.2026 198 THE MINISTER OF RAILWAYS; MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING; AND MINISTER OF ELECTRONICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI ASHWINI VAISHNAW): (a) to (d) : Kovilpalayam station was earlier existing on Podanur-Pollachi Meter Gauge section. It was closed during Gauge Conversion of this section due to low patronage. However, the feasibility of providing a new station at Kovilpalayam has been taken up. Tamil Nadu:- Railway Budget:- Budget allocation in the recent years has increased significantly. Budget allocation for infrastructure projects and safety works, falling fully/partly in the State of Tamil Nadu is as under: Period Outlay 2009-14 ₹879 crore/year 2025-26 ₹ 6,626 crore (more than 7.5 times) Project sanctioned:- As on 01.04.2025, 15 projects (09 new line, 03 gauge conversion and 03 doubling) of 1,700 km length, costing ₹22,808 Crore, falling fully/partly in the State of Tamil Nadu, are sanctioned. The summary is as under:- Category No. of sanctioned projects Total Length (in km) Length Commissioned upto Mar’25 (in km) Expenditure upto Mar’ 25 (₹ in Cr.) 18.03.2026 199 New Line 9 812 24 1,337 Gauge Conversion 3 748 604 3,471 Doubling /Multitracking 3 140 37 2,783 Total 15 1,700 665 7,591 Zonal Railway wise details of Railway projects are made available in public domain on Indian Railway’s website. Recently Completed Projects:- Details of some of the recently completed projects falling fully/partly in Tamil Nadu are as under : S.N. Project Cost (₹in Crores) 1 Dindigul-Palani-Pollachi gauge conversion (121 km) 610 2 Pollachi-Palghat gauge conversion (56 km) 350 3 Pollachi-Podhanur gauge conversion (40 km) 400 4 Quilon-Tirunelveli-Tiruchendur gauge conversion (357 km) 1,122 5 Mayiladuturai-Thiruvarur-Karaikkudi gauge conversion (187 km) 1,338 6 Madurai-Bodiyakannur gauge conversion (90 km) 593 7 Chengalpattu-Villupuram doubling (102 km) 670 8 Tiruvallur-Arakkonam 4th line (27 km) 83 9 Chennai Central-Basin Bridge doubling (2 km) 31 10 Thanjavur-Ponmalai doubling (48 km) 370 11 Villupuram-Dindigul doubling (273 km) 2,000 12 Chennai Beach-Korukkupet 3rd line (5 km) 168 13 Chennai Beach-Attipattu 4th line (22 km) 293 14 Omalur-Metturdam Patch doubling (29 km) 327 15 Chengalpattu - Villupuram and Tambaram-Chengalpattu - 3rd line (133 km) 1,122 16 Salem-Magnesite Junction-Omalur doubling (11 km) 115 17 Madurai- Maniyachi-Tuticorin doubling (160 km) 1,891 18 Maniyachi-Nagercoil doubling (102 km) 1,752 19 Chennai Beach-Chennai Egmore doubling (4 km) 272 20 Karaikal-Peralam new line (23 km) 373 21 Northern End Port connectivity to Karaikal Port (1 km) 18 Ongoing Projects:- 18.03.2026 200 Some of the projects falling fully/partly in the State of Tamil Nadu which have been taken up are as under : S.N Project Cost (₹ in Crores) 1 Tindivanam-Nagari new line (184 km) 3,631 2 Morappur-Dharmapuri new line (36 km) 359 3 Nagapattinam - Tiruturaipundi new line (43 km) 742 4 Trivandrum-Kanyakumari doubling (87 km) 3,785 5 Arakkonam yard 3rd and 4th line (6 km) 98 6 Perambur - Ambattur 5th and 6th lines (6 Km) 178 7 Irugur-Podanur doubling (11 Km) 277 8 Tambaram-Chengalpattu 4th Line (30 km) 757 9 Attipattu - Gummidipundi 3rd and 4th line (23 km) 375 10 Tirupati - Pakala - Katpadi doubling (105 km) 1,332 11 Tindivanam-Gingee-Tiruvannamalai New Line (71 Km) 1,400 12 Atipattu – Puttur New Line (88 Km) 1,700 13 Chennai – Cuddulore via Mahabalipuram New Line (179 Km) 2,670 Execution of important infrastructure projects falling fully/partly in the State of Tamil Nadu are held up due to delay in land acquisition. Status of land acquisition in Tamil Nadu is as under: Total Land required for Projects in Tamil Nadu 4,326 ha Land Acquired 1,052 ha (24%) Balance Land to be acquired 3,274 ha (76%) Support of the Government of Tamil Nadu is needed to expedite the land acquisition. Details of some major projects which are delayed due to land acquisition 18.03.2026 201 are as under:- SN Name of the project Total land required (in ha) Land acquired (in ha) Balance Land to be acquired (in ha) 1. Tindivanam - Tiruvannamalai new line (71 km) 276 33 243 2. Attiputtu - Puttur new line (88 km) 189 0 189 3. Morappur-Dharmapuri new line (36 km) 92 45 47 4. Mannargudi-Pattukkottai new line (41 km) 196 0 196 5. Thanjavur-Pattukottai new line (52 km) 152 0 152 Further, Rameshwaram – Dhanushkodi new line (18 km) was sanctioned at a cost of ₹734 Cr. The Foundation Stone of the project was laid on 01.03.2019. However, the project could not be started because the land acquisition has not been undertaken by the State Govt. of Tamil Nadu. Government of India is geared up to execute projects, however success depends upon the support of Government of Tamil Nadu. Sanction of any railway project depends upon many parameters/factors which include the following:  Anticipated traffic projections and remunerativeness of the proposed route  First and last mile connectivity provided by the project  Connection of missing links and providing additional route  Augmentation of congested/saturated lines 18.03.2026 202  Demands raised by State Governments/Central Ministries/Public representatives  Railway’s own operational requirements  Socio-economic considerations  Overall availability of funds Completion of Railway project/s depends on various factors which include the following:  Land acquisition by State Government  Forest clearance  Shifting of infringing utilities  Statutory clearances from various authorities  Geological and topographical conditions of area  Law and order situation in the area of project site  Number of working months in a year for particular project site etc. All these factors affect the completion time and cost of the project/s. ALLOCATION OF PRS/UTS BOOKING CENTRES 4151. SHRI KUNDURU RAGHUVEER: Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government is aware that many Railway Passenger Reservation System (PRS) and Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) 18.03.2026 203 booking centres in the country are being allotted predominantly to agents/operators who were already functioning earlier and if so, the details thereof; (b) whether the Government has examined the possibility of allotting such booking centres to educated unemployed youth under a transparent selection process to promote self-employment and reduce unemployment and if so, the details thereof; (c) the total number of booking centres allotted in the last five years and the criteria adopted for their allocation, year-wise; and (d) whether the Government proposes to introduce a special scheme/youth- focused franchise model to enable wider participation of unemployed youth in railway ticketing services particularly in rural and semi-urban areas and if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF RAILWAYS; MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING; AND MINISTER OF ELECTRONICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI ASHWINI VAISHNAW): (a) to (d) : With a view to facilitating passengers in booking both reserved and unreserved tickets, Indian Railways has introduced various technological solutions, such as the RailOne App, which is in addition to the conventional modes of booking through counters of Indian Railways. Through this app., passengers can book reserved as well as unreserved tickets on mobile phone. This, in effect, brings the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) facility as well as Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) to passengers’ palm. The RailOne App 18.03.2026 204 has advanced security and privacy measures. The total number of downloads of RailOne App and number of daily average tickets booked (both reserved and unreserved) through it (till 15-03- 2026) are tabulated below: Total number of downloads 2.57 Cr. Average daily number of tickets booked 7.64 Lakh The App combines all the public facing services of Indian Railways like reserved ticketing, unreserved ticketing and platform ticketing, train enquiry, PNR enquiry, Railmadad, etc. into a single platform. The users can avail all these services in integrated manner through single login. The RailOne App can be downloaded from Android Play Store and Apple App Store and registration is user friendly. In addition, passengers also have the facility to book reserved tickets through the app/website of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation. At present approximately 88% of reserved tickets are being booked online. Further, Indian Railways also engages various types of agents which are as follows: Unreserved tickets i. Halt agents ii. Jan Sadharan Ticket Booking Sevak (JTBS) iii. Station Ticket Booking Agents (STBA) iv. M-UTS Sahayaks 18.03.2026 205 Reserved as well as unreserved tickets i. Yatri Tickets Suvidha Kendra Licensee (YTSKL) In addition, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) engages E-ticketing agents for issuing reserved e-tickets. There is no condition for having experience in issuing railway tickets for getting engaged as Halt agent, JTBS, STBA and M-UTS Sahayak. As such, these schemes are open to eligible individuals including educated unemployed youth and hence promote self-employment and improve access to railway ticketing facilities especially in rural and semi-urban area. Since in addition to unreserved tickets, YTSKLs also issue reserved tickets, which require a basic understanding of Railway Ticketing, for YTSKLs, a minimum of 02 years’ experience in Railway Ticketing is required. Agents are appointed for a fixed tenure in accordance with the scheme’s terms and conditions and may be terminated for any breach of those terms. Renewal of appointments and the invitation of fresh applications upon expiry of tenure is a continuous and ongoing process. पीबी-शÊद समाचार साझाकरण सेवा 4152. ®ीमती शोभनाबेन महेÆþिसंह बारैयाः ®ी िýवेÆþ िसंह रावतः ®ी योगेÆþ चांदोिलयाः ®ी िवनोद लखमशी चावड़ाः ®ी अनूप संजय धोýेः 18.03.2026 206 कैÈटन बृजेश चौटाः ®ी कोटा ®ीिनवास पूजारीः ®ी िचÆतामिण महाराजः सु®ी कंगना रनौतः ®ी ÿदीप कुमार िसंहः ®ी रवीÆþ शु³ला उफª रिव िकशनः ®ी बंटी िववेक साहóः ®ी ÿवीण पटेलः ®ी ÿताप चंþ षडङ्गीः ®ी राजकुमार चाहरः डॉ. संजय जायसवालः ³या सूचना और ÿसारण मंýी यह बताने कì कृपा कर¤गे िकः (क) ³या सरकार ने वेÓस ओटीटी Èलेटफॉमª शुł िकया है और यिद हां, तो इसे शुł िकए जाने के मु´य उĥेÔय और माचª 2026 तक मÅय ÿदेश के िछंदवाड़ा िजले सिहत पंजीकृत उपयोगकताªओं कì लि±त सं´या िकतनी है; (ख) ³या ÿसार भारती-ÿसारण और ÿसार के िलए ÿसार भारती साझा ऑिडयो-िवजुअल (पीबी शÊद) समाचार साझाकरण सेवा पूरे देश म¤ िविभÆन भारतीय भाषाओं म¤ समाचारŌ के ÿसार को सुगम बनाएगी और यिद हां, तो तÂसंबंधी Êयौरा ³या है; (ग) ³या ÿसार भारती कì पुरालेख सामúी नए शुł िकए गए िडिजटल Èलेटफॉमª के माÅयम से दशªकŌ को उपलÊध कराई जा रही है और यिद हां, तो तÂसंबंधी Êयौरा ³या है; (घ) पीबी-शÊद सेवा के उपयोगकताªओं के िलए ÿारंिभक 'िनःशुÐक' अविध के पूरा होने कì समय- सीमा ³या है; और (ङ) ³या उपयुªĉ सेवाओं (वेÓस ओटीटी और पीबी-शÊद) के अंतगªत छ°ीसगढ़ के सरगुजा ±ेý 18.03.2026 207 के िलए कोई िवशेष ÿसारण, Öथानीय समाचार या ±ेýीय भाषाओं/बोिलयŌ म¤ सामúी उपलÊध कराई जा रही है और यिद हां, तो तÂसंबंधी Êयौरा ³या है? सूचना और ÿसारण मंýालय म¤ राºय मंýी; तथा संसदीय कायª मंýालय म¤ राºय मंýी (डॉ. एल. मुłगन): (क) से (ङ) : ÿसार-भारती Ĭारा नवंबर, 2024 म¤ रेिडयो और टीवी चैनलŌ, टीवी शो, वेब सीरीज, िफÐमŌ, लाइव इव¤ट, रेिडयो सेवाओं, सांÖकृितक सामúी, शैि±क कायªøमŌ और ÿसार भारती कì अिभलेखीय सामúी सिहत िविवध सामúी के ÿसार के िलए एक िडिजटल Öůीिमंग Èलेटफॉमª के łप म¤ वेÓस ओटीटी Èलेटफॉमª लॉÆच िकया गया है। इस Èलेटफॉमª के 84 लाख से अिधक पंजीकृत उपयोगकताª ह§, िजनम¤ मÅय ÿदेश के िछंदवाड़ा िजले के उपयोगकताª भी शािमल ह§। ÿसार भारती – ÿसारण और ÿसार के िलए साझा ऑिडयो-िवजुअल (पीबी-शÊद) माचª 2024 म¤ लॉÆच िकया गया था। यह देश भर म¤ 15 भारतीय भाषाओं अथाªत असिमया, बंगाली, अंúेजी, गुजराती, िहंदी, कÆनड़, कÔमीरी, मलयालम, मराठी, उिड़या, पंजाबी, तिमल, तेलुगु, डोगरी और उदूª म¤ समाचारŌ के ÿसार कì सुिवधा ÿदान करता है। ÿारंभ म¤ इसे यूजसª के िलए एक वषª के िलए िन:शुÐक उपलÊध कराया गया था, िजसे माचª 2027 तक बढ़ा िदया गया है। टेलीिवजन शो, वृ°िचý िफÐमŌ और अÆय कायªøमŌ सिहत ÿसार भारती से अिभलेखीय सामúी का एक बड़ा भंडार वेÓस ओटीटी Èलेटफॉमª पर उपलÊध कराया गया है। खोज ±मता बढ़ाने और दशªकŌ कì भागीदारी को सुŀढ़ करने के िलए अिभलेखीय कायªøमŌ का ÿकाशन चरणबĦ तरीके से िकया जा रहा है। वेÓस ओटीटी और पीबी-शÊद Èलेटफॉमª ÿसार भारती कì िविवध सामúी तक पहòंच ÿदान करते ह§, िजसम¤ िहंदी और िविभÆन ±ेýीय भाषाओं म¤ कायªøम और समाचार शािमल ह§, जो छ°ीसगढ़ के सरगुजा ±ेý सिहत देश भर म¤ उपलÊध ह§। 18.03.2026 208 DELAY IN KEY APPOINTMENTS TO THE NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR MINORITIES 4153. DR. SHASHI THAROOR: Will the Minister of MINORITY AFFAIRS be pleased to state: (a) the specific reasons for the prolonged delay in appointing the Chairperson and key members of the National Commission for Minorities despite vacancies and directions from the Delhi High Court; (b) the steps being taken to expeditiously fill all existing vacancies or making arrangements for interim appointments to ensure the Commission functions with its full statutory strength; and (c) whether the Government has a timeline for such appointments and measures in place to avoid any scope of ambiguity and future lapses in the Commission’s functioning and if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS; AND MINISTER OF MINORITY AFFAIRS (SHRI KIREN RIJIJU): (a) to (c) : As per Section 3 (2) of the NCM Act 1992, Chairperson, Vice- Chairperson and Members of the Commission is to be nominated by the Central Government from amongst persons of eminence, ability and integrity. The Central Government has appointed two members in the National Commission for Minorities, vide notification dated 06.03.2026. REGULATION OF ONLINE MATRIMONIAL AND DATING PLATFORMS 4154. SHRI APPALANAIDU KALISETTI: 18.03.2026 209 Will the Minister of ELECTRONICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government has taken cognizance of complaints relating to identity fraud, impersonation, financial scams, harassment and misuse of personal data on online matrimonial and dating platforms; (b) if so, the total number of such complaints received during the last five years, classified crime-type-wise, State and year-wise including segregation into domestic and cross-border cases; (c) the number of FIRs registered, charge sheets filed, arrests made and convictions secured in such cases, classified, State-wise; (d) whether such platforms are mandated under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 to undertake mandatory user verification/KYC and if not, the reasons therefor; and (e) whether the Government proposes any additional measures, policy frameworks or guidelines to further regulate online matrimonial and dating platforms, enhance user verification and prevent misuse or fraud and if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY; AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ELECTRONICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI JITIN PRASADA): (a) to (e) : The policies of Government of India are aimed at ensuring open, safe, trusted and accountable cyberspace for users in the country. It is 18.03.2026 210 cognizant of the risks and harms arising from the misuse of digital technologies including online matrimonial and dating platforms. IT Act 2000: The Information Technology Act, 2000 (“IT Act”) and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (“IT Rules”), together, provide a framework to deal with unlawful content in the digital space. The IT Act provides penal provisions against various cybercrimes that may arise from abuse, fraud, and misuse on online platforms, including online matrimonial and dating platforms. The relevant provisions under IT Act are as follows: -  Section 66C: Punishment for identity theft (e.g., creating fake profiles using personal data).  Section 66D: Punishment for cheating by personation using computer resources.  Section 66E: Punishment for violation of privacy through capturing, publishing or transmitting private images  Section 67: Punishment for publishing or transmitting obscene content in electronic form  Section 67A: Punishment for publishing or transmitting sexually explicit material  Section 72: Penalty for breach of confidentiality and privacy by intermediaries or associated personnel 18.03.2026 211 Online matrimonial and dating platforms are intermediaries and must follow due diligence requirements under the IT Rules. They are required to make reasonable efforts to ensure that users do not post or share content that is obscene, violates privacy, harasses or insults on the basis of gender, or violates any law. Intermediaries must remove unlawful content within 3 hours (2 hours for non-consensual sexual/intimate content) of being notified by the government or court order. DPDP Act 2023: The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (“DPDP Act”), together with the Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025 (“DPDP Rules”), establishes a comprehensive framework governing the processing of digital personal data in a manner that recognises both the right of individuals to protect their personal data and the need to process such personal data for lawful purposes. The DPDP Act requires personal data to be processed for lawful purposes on the basis of free, specific, informed, unconditional and unambiguous consent, preceded or accompanied by a notice describing the personal data to be collected and the purpose of its processing. The DPDP Act also provides individuals with certain rights in relation to their personal data and requires Data Fiduciaries to establish grievance redressal mechanisms in matters concerning the processing of such data. The framework established under the DPDP Act is technology-agnostic and principle-based, enabling organisations operating digital platforms to adopt 18.03.2026 212 safeguards and verification mechanisms appropriate to their services and risk environment while complying with statutory obligations relating to data protection, transparency, and accountability. Advisory: The Ministry has also issued an advisory dated 06.06.2016 to all matrimonial websites and matrimonial mobile applications on functioning of matrimonial websites in accordance with the IT Act and the rules framed thereunder. Coordination with state governments: ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ are State subjects as per the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. Therefore, the primary responsibility for prevention, detection, registration, investigation and prosecution of cases is of the state government. Therefore the matters regarding complaints relating to identity fraud, impersonation, financial scams, harassment, and misuse of personal data on online matrimonial and dating platforms, concern the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations. The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (“NCRP”) (https://cybercrime.gov.in) has been launched, as a part of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre(“I4C”), to enable public to report incidents pertaining to all types of cyber crimes, with special focus on cyber crimes against women and children. Cyber crime incidents reported on this portal, their conversion into FIRs and subsequent action thereon are handled by the State/UT Law Enforcement Agencies concerned as per the provisions of the law. 18.03.2026 213 The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) compiles and publishes the statistical data on crimes in its publication “Crime in India”. The latest published data pertains to year 2023. Details can be accessed in their website https://www.ncrb.gov.in/ STOPPAGE FOR TRAIN AT PETTAVAITHALAI RAILWAY STATION 4155. SHRI DURAI VAIKO: Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government is aware that a large number of passengers from Pettavaithalai and surrounding villages in Tiruchirappalli district depend on Train No. 16231/16232 Mysuru – Cuddalore Port Express for travelling towards Mysuru, Salem, Vriddhachalam and Cuddalore and if so, the details thereof; (b) whether it is a fact that the said train presently passes through Pettavaithalai railway station without a scheduled stop and if so, the details thereof; (c) whether the Government has received representations from the public/elected representatives requesting a stoppage of the said train at Pettavaithalai railway station and if so, the details thereof; and (d) whether the Government is considering to provide a stoppage for Train No. 16231/16232 Mysuru–Cuddalore Port Express at Pettavaithalai railway station considering passenger demand, connectivity needs and 18.03.2026 214 public convenience and if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor? THE MINISTER OF RAILWAYS; MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING; AND MINISTER OF ELECTRONICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI ASHWINI VAISHNAW): (a) to (d) : At present, Pettaivayatalai station is being served by following 10 train services: Sl. Train No. and Name 1. 16811 Mayiladuturai - Salem Express 2. 16812 Salem - Mayiladuturai Express 3. 16843 Tiruchchirappalli - Palakkad Town Express 4. 16844 Palakkad Town - Tiruchchirappalli Express 5. 56105 Tiruchchirappalli - Erode Passenger 6. 56106 Erode - Tiruchchirappalli Passenger 7. 56809 Tiruchchirappalli - Erode Passenger 8. 56810 Erode - Tiruchchirappalli Passenger 9. 76809 Tiruchchirappalli - Karur Passenger 10 76810 Karur - Tiruchchirappalli Passenger These train services are providing inter alia connectivity to cities like Salem, Erode, Tiruchchirappalli, etc. 16231/16232 Mysuru–Cuddalore Port Express has scheduled stoppage at Kulitalai 9 km from Pettaivayatalai. Proposals/ requests/ suggestions/ representations, both formal and informal inter alia for provision of stoppage of trains are received from Members of Parliament, elected representatives, organizations/rail users etc. at various levels including Railway Board, Zonal Railways, Divisional Office etc. As receipt of such proposals/ requests/suggestions is a continuous and 18.03.2026 215 dynamic process, centralized compendium of such requests is not maintained. However, these are examined and action as found feasible and justified is taken from time to time, which is an on-going process. Besides, provision of stoppages of train services depends on the traffic justification, operational feasibility including availability of extra time on the section and availability of matching infrastructure such as Platform length etc. PASSENGER FACILITIES AT KARUR RAILWAY STATION IN TAMIL NADU 4156. SHRI MATHESWARAN V. S.: Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) the details of timeline to complete the construction of lift at Karur railway station in Tamil Nadu; (b) the names of railway officials along with designation who have been given complimentary travel in Palace on Wheels and Maharaja Express from 2012 to till date; and (c) the rationale of allowing railway officials who are on official duty to take their spouse on complimentary travel in luxury trains at the cost of public money? THE MINISTER OF RAILWAYS; MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING; AND MINISTER OF ELECTRONICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI ASHWINI VAISHNAW): (a) to (c) : Ministry of Railways has launched Amrit Bharat Station Scheme for redevelopment of stations with a long-term approach. Karur Junction station, 18.03.2026 216 located in Tamil Nadu has been identified for development under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Facilities like high level platforms, platform shelter, waiting hall, drinking water arrangement, urinal, lavatory, seating arrangement and Foot Over Bridge etc. are available. In addition to this, 03 lifts are available at Platform No. 1, 2/3 and 4/5 of Karur Junction station. Development works at Karur Junction station under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme have been taken up at good pace. The works of improvement of station building, main entrance arch, platform widening and surfacing of platform no. 1, platform shelter at platform no. 2/3 and 4/5, AC waiting hall, general waiting hall, toilet at platform no. 1, 2/3 and 4/5, circulating area and parking have been completed. The works of platform surfacing at platform no. 2/3 and 4/5, water booth, seating arrangement, lift, escalator and 12meter Foot Over Bridge have been taken up. Further, Railway officials are entitled to travel in Indian Railways trains with their families in accordance with Railway Servants (Pass) Rules, 1986 only. Amrit Bharat Station scheme in Tamil Nadu: The scheme involves preparation of master plans and their implementation in phases to improve the stations. The master planning includes:  Improvement of access to station and circulating areas  Integration of station with both sides of city  Improvement of station building 18.03.2026 217  Improvement of waiting halls, toilets, sitting arrangement, water booths  Provision of wider foot over bridge/air concourse commensurate with passenger traffic  Provision of lift/escalators/ramp  Improvement /Provision of platform surface and cover over platforms  Provision of kiosks for local products through schemes like ‘One Station One Product’  Parking areas, Multimodal integration  Amenities for Divyangjans  Better passenger information systems  Provision of executive lounges, nominated spaces for business meetings, landscaping, etc. keeping in view the necessity at each station. The scheme also envisages sustainable and environment friendly solutions, provision of ballastless tracks etc. as per necessity, phasing and feasibility and creation of city centre at the station in the long term. So far, 1,338 stations have been identified for development under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Out of these, 77 stations including Karur Junction station, are located in Tamil Nadu. The name of stations identified under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme in Tamil Nadu are as following: 18.03.2026 218 State No. of Stations Name of Stations Tamil Nadu 77 Ambasamudram, Ambattur, Arakkonam Jn, Ariyalur, Avadi, Bommidi, Chengalpattu Jn, Chennai Beach, Chennai Egmore, Chennai Park, Chidambaram, Chinna Salem, Chrompet, Coimbatore Jn, Coimbatore North, Coonoor, Dharmapuri, Dindigul, Erode Jn., Guduvancheri, Guindy, Gummidipundi, Hosur, Jolarpettai Jn, Kanniyakumari Terminus, Karaikkudi Jn, Karur Jn, Katpadi Jn, Kovilpatti, Kulitturai, Kumbakonam, Lalgudi, Madurai Jn, Mambalam, Manaparai, Mannargudi, Mayiladuturai Jn, Mettupalayam, Morappur, Nagercoil Jn, Namakkal, Palani, Paramakkudi, Perambur, Podanur Jn., Pollachi Jn, Polur, Pudukkottai, Puratchi ThalaivarDr. M.G. Ramachandran Central, Rajapalayam, Ramanathapuram, Rameswaram, Salem, Samalpatti, Sholavandan, Srirangam, Srivilliputtur, St.Thomas Mount, Tambaram, Tenkasi, Thanjavur Jn, Thiruvarur Jn., Tiruchendur, Tirunelveli Jn, Tirupadripulyur, Tirupattur, Tiruppur, Tirusulam, Tiruttani, Tiruvallur, Tiruvannamalai, Tuticorin, Udagamandalam, Vellore Cantt., Villupuram Jn., Virudhunagar, Vriddhachalam Jn. Development works at railway stations under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme in Tamil Nadu have been taken up at a good pace. Till now, works of 20 stations have been completed. The name of stations completed in Tamil Nadu are as following: State No. of stations Name of stations Tamil Nadu 20 Bommidi, Chennai Park, Chidambaram, Chinna Salem, Karaikkudi Jn, Kulitturai, Mambalam, Manaparai, Mannargudi, Morappur, Pollachi Jn, Polur, Samalpatti, Sholavandan, Srirangam, Srivilliputtur, St. Thomas Mount, Thiruvarur Jn., Tiruvannamalai, Vriddhachalam Jn. The activities for development at other stations have also been taken up 18.03.2026 219 at good pace and progress of some of the above stations is as given below:  Palani station: The works of improvement of station building, platform shelter, waiting hall, toilet, circulating area, parking, entry/exit arch, lift at existing Foot Over Bridge, coach indication board and train indication board have been completed. The works of Divyangjan facilities and 6 m Foot Over Bridge have been taken up.  Virudhunagar Junction station: The works of circulating area, parking, entry/exit arch, Divyangjan facilities, coach indication board and train indication board have been completed. The works of improvement of station building and 6 m Foot Over Bridge have been taken up.  Thanjavur Junction station: The works of portico, improvement of concourse, platform shelter, improvement of booking office, circulating area, exit arch and signages have been completed. The works of parking, lift, escalator, coach indication board and train indication board have been taken up.  Villupuram Junction station: The works of new arrival building, platform shelter, improvement of platform surface, booking counter, parcel office, improvement of parking and signages have been completed. The works of improvement of concourse, circulating area, parking, entrance arch, coach indication board, train indication board, escalator and 6 m Foot Over Bridge have been taken up. Development / Upgradation of stations is complex in nature involving 18.03.2026 220 safety of passengers and trains and requires various statutory clearances such as fire clearance, heritage, tree cutting, airport clearance etc. The progress also gets affected due to brownfield related challenges such as shifting of utilities (involving water/sewage lines, optical fibre cables, gas pipe lines, power/signal cables, etc.), infringements, operation of trains without hindering passenger movement, speed restrictions due to works carried out in close proximity of tracks and high voltage power lines, etc. and these factors affect the completion time. Development / Upgradation / Modernization of stations including Amrit Bharat Station Scheme is generally funded under Plan Head-53 ‘Customer Amenities’. The details of allocation and expenditure under Plan Head-53 are maintained Zonal Railway-wise and not work-wise or station-wise or state- wise. Tamil Nadu is covered under the jurisdiction of two railway zones, namely, Southern Railway and South Western Railway. For these zones, an allocation of ₹ 1,697 crore has been made for the financial year 2025-26, out of which an expenditure of ₹ 1,626 crore (up to February, 2026) has been incurred so far. DEVELOPMENT OF SATELLITE LAUNCH FACILITIES IN INDIA 4157. SHRI TANGELLA UDAY SRINIVAS: Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state: (a) the number of new satellite launch facilities and launch pads approved, under construction and operational in the country during the last five years 18.03.2026 221 along with their designed payload capacities and expected timelines for full commissioning, year and State-wise; (b) the funds sanctioned, released and utilised for establishment or expansion of such facilities during the said period; (c) the details of upcoming launch missions planned from these facilities including the types of launch vehicles and payload categories; (d) whether any proposal for the development of such facilities from States including Andhra Pradesh for a launch facility near Kakinada is under consideration of the Government; (e) if so, the status thereof including approvals, payload capacity and funding pattern; (f) whether private participation and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) have been permitted in development of launch infrastructure; and (g) if so, the details thereof including regulatory safeguards adopted? THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY; MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF EARTH SCIENCES; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE DEPARTMENT OF ATOMIC ENERGY; AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE DEPARTMENT OF SPACE (DR. JITENDRA SINGH): (a) : As of now, two launch pads i.e. First Launch Pad (FLP) and Second Launch Pad (SLP) are operational at Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), 18.03.2026 222 Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. FLP caters to the launches of PSLV and SSLV and SLP caters to the launches of PSLV, GSLV and LVM3. Establishment of a Third Launch Pad (TLP) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota has been approved by the Government of India in the year 2025 which will cater to the launch of Next Generation Launch vehicles of ISRO. TLP is targeted to be established by 2029-30 timeframe. In order to carry out the launches of Small Satellite Launch Vehicle to Sun-synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO) that is mostly preferred for Earth Observation, a second launch site i.e., SSLV Launch Complex (SLC) in Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu is being established. The second launch site is expected to be commissioned during FY 2026-27 timeframe. (b) : The funds sanctioned, released and utilised for establishment or expansion of launch pad and related facilities during the last five years is as in Statement. (c) : Three missions each of PSLV and SSLV, mostly earth observation satellites are planned to be launched from First Launch Pad (FLP) during 2026-27 timeframe. Two missions each of GSLV and LVM3, mostly for communication and navigation satellites are planned to be launched during 2026-27 timeframe. The first developmental flight of NGLV from TLP is planned during 2031- 32 timeframe. The launches of SSLV from the Second launch site at Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu is expected during 2027-28 timeframe. (d) and (e) : As of now, the Department of Space (DoS) has no proposal to 18.03.2026 223 establish any other launch site elsewhere in the country. (f) : Yes. The Space sector reforms announced by the Government of India during June, 2020 permits end to end space activities including development of launch infrastructure. Following these Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) was created in Department of Space for promoting, authorizing and overseeing the activities of Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs) in Space sector. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is permitted in development of launch infrastructure as notified by Gazette notification dated 16.04.2024 by Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance. (g) : IN-SPACe has brought out the Norms, Guidelines and Procedures (NGP) for Implementation of Indian Space Policy-2023 in respect of Authorization of Space Activities, which provides guidelines and criteria for authorization including accountability, national security, sustainable and safe space operations, and provides transparency and predictability to the non- government entities seeking authorisation from IN-SPACe. Guidelines and Standard Operating Procedure including regulatory safeguards to be followed in automatic as well as government routes for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in space sector are already issued by the Department. 18.03.2026 224 STATEMENT The funds sanctioned, released and utilised for establishment or expansion of launch pad and related facilities during the last five years (Rs. in crore) Sl. No. Name of Project 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals 1 Realization of Second Vehicle Assembly Building 1000.00 1000.00 999.94 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2 Solid Propellant Space Booster Plant 8000.00 5000.00 5499.88 8000.00 6500.00 6299.99 3500.00 3900.00 3899.98 3 PSLV Integration Facility 11000.00 6000.00 5499.70 8000.00 4500.00 3679.14 4000.00 4000.00 3246.07 4 Launch Pad for SSLV 10000.00 584.00 78.74 11700.00 15482.00 15549.63 10000.00 1000.00 1172.99 5 Third Launch Pad 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 6 Augmentation of Infrastructure towards enhancement of launched capacity of LVM 3 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 18.03.2026 225 Financial year 2023-24 to 2025-26 (Rs. in crore) Sl. No. Name of Project 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals BE RE Actuals (Feb 2026) 1 Realization of Second Vehicle Assembly Building 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2 Solid Propellant Space Booster Plant 2450.00 2450.00 2106.13 550.00 700.00 499.39 100.00 14.50 13.84 3 PSLV Integration Facility 4000.00 1500.00 711.41 2280.00 1700.00 930.91 100.00 7.00 5.31 4 Launch Pad for SSLV 10000.00 1000.00 36.78 10883.00 16270.00 13896.56 30000.00 230.00 148.65 5 Third Launch Pad 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 3.00 0.80 6 Augmentation of Infrastructure towards enhancement of launched capacity of LVM 3 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 2375.00 29.00 2.33 BUFFER STOCKS OF FOODGRAINS 4158. SHRI G. LAKSHMINARAYANA: Will the Minister of CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION be pleased to state: (a) the total quantity of foodgrains maintained in the Central Pool during the last five financial years, year and commodity-wise; (b) the details of the prescribed buffer norms and strategic reserve requirements for the corresponding period, quarter and year-wise; (c) whether actual stock levels exceeded the prescribed buffer norms during the said period and if so, the extent of excess stock maintained, year- 18.03.2026 226 wise; (d) the details of the total expenditure incurred on maintenance of buffer stocks by Food Corporation of India (FCI) during the last five financial years, year-wise along with a break-up under major heads including storage, interest, handling, transportation and stock rotation; (e) whether the Government has assessed the additional carrying cost attributable to maintenance of stocks above the prescribed buffer norms and if so, the details thereof; and (f) whether the Government proposes to rationalise procurement and storage levels in order to reduce the fiscal burden and improve efficiency in foodgrain management and if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (SHRIMATI NIMUBEN JAYANTIBHAI BAMBHANIYA): (a) and (c) : Total stock of foodgrains, Foodgrain stocking Norms for central pool and Excess stocks during the last five years are as below: (Fig. in Lakh MT) As on Stock of Wheat and Rice Foodgrain Stocking Norms (Buffer Stocks) Excess stock Wheat Rice Total 1st April, 2021 273.04 291.18 564.22 210.40 353.82 1st April, 2022 189.90 323.22 513.12 210.40 302.72 1st April, 2023 83.45 248.60 332.05 210.40 121.65 1st April, 2024 75.02 301.57 376.59 210.40 166.19 1st April, 2025 117.94 382.09 500.03 210.40 289.63 18.03.2026 227 (b) : Foodgrain stocking Norms for central pool (Buffer Norms) with effect from 22.01.2015 are as follows;- Fig. In lakh MT As on Operational Stock Strategic Reserve Total Rice Wheat Rice Wheat 1st April 115.80 44.60 20.00 30.00 210.40 1st July 115.40 245.80 20.00 30.00 411.20 1st October 82.50 175.20 20.00 30.00 307.70 1st January 56.10 108.00 20.00 30.00 214.10 (d) : The details of the buffer cost incurred during the last five financial years are enclosed as Statement. (e) : The additional carrying cost of FCI attributable to maintenance of stocks mainly involves storage and interest. Based on the audited FY 2024–25 buffer carrying cost calculation, the rate of storage is Rs. 163.04 per Qtl and rate of interest is Rs. 220.44 per Qtl. (f) : The Government policy of procurement has broad objectives of ensuring MSP to the farmer and availability of food to the weaker section at affordable prices. State Government agencies and Food Corporation of India (FCI) purchase wheat and paddy conforming to prescribed Fair Average Quality (FAQ) specifications and offered by farmers for procurement so that farmers get remunerative price for their produce and do not have to resort to distress sale. However, if producer/ farmer gets better price in comparison to MSP, they are free to sell their produce in open market. Procurement in a State depends not only upon production but also upon other factor like marketable surplus, 18.03.2026 228 MSP, prevailing market rate, demand and supply situation and participation of private traders etc”. STATEMENT Carrying cost of buffer stocks Amount Rs. Lakh Details of cost 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 Handling 23,866.95 35,655.25 4,459.76 48,825.15 82,509.55 Storage Charges 81,027.81 1,11,278.12 16,344.94 1,41,387.77 3,14,543.69 Interest 1,11,105.23 2,04,528.04 -843.35 2,27,503.58 4,25,303.06 Freight 83,576.95 94,051.85 45,736.20 1,17,625.70 1,60,433.14 Administrative Overheads 10,923.60 19,479.38 2,740.30 35,961.17 69,964.85 Transit Shortages 3,685.65 4,078.66 1,859.29 3,343.12 4,548.77 Storage shortages 17,289.92 18,531.23 3,699.79 10,741.26 18,741.06 Total 3,31,476.11 4,87,602.53 73,996.93 5,85,387.75 10,76,044.12 4G BASED MOBILE SERVICES IN ANDHRA PRADESH 4159. SHRI BASTIPATI NAGARAJU: Will the Minister of COMMUNICATIONS be pleased to state: (a) the details of the total number of villages selected for providing 4G based mobile services, State-wise and district-wise for Andhra Pradesh; (b) the details of the number of villages where such towers have been commissioned, State and district-wise particularly Andhra Pradesh and year-wise, since the project's inception; 18.03.2026 229 (c) the details of amount of funds sanctioned and released to implementing agencies under this project, State and year-wise; and (d) the details of the customer usage from the commissioned towers, State and district-wise particularly Andhra Pradesh and year-wise? THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT; AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS (DR. CHANDRA SEKHAR PEMMASANI): (a) : Government has undertaken several projects through Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) to provide 4G mobile services to the uncovered villages/locations across the country, including Andhra Pradesh. 5,016 villages/locations of Andhra Pradesh have been selected for providing the 4G mobile services under various projects funded by DBN. District wise details of villages/locations selected for Andhra Pradesh is available on DBN website (https://usof.gov.in/en/home). (b) : As on 28.02.2026, 2,035 4G based towers have been made on air in the Andhra Pradesh under the various projects funded by DBN. District-wise and year wise number of towers made on air in Andhra Pradesh is available on DBN website (https://usof.gov.in/en/home). (c) : As on 28.02.2026, total fund of Rs. 1,182.88 crore has been released under various mobile projects of DBN in Andhra Pradesh. Year wise fund released to the implementing agencies is available on DBN website (https://usof.gov.in/en/home). (d) : A total 4,527 terabyte (TB) data has been consumed by the customers 18.03.2026 230 served by DBN funded mobile towers in the month of February 2026 in Andhra Pradesh, which translate to 24.6 gigabyte (GB) data consumed per user for month of February 2026. District wise details of data consumption by the users for the month of February 2026 for Andhra Pradesh is available on DBN website (https://usof.gov.in/en/home). RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION SCHEME 4160. SHRI LAVU SRIKRISHNA DEVARAYALU: Will the Minister of SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY be pleased to state: (a) the details of the current status of implementation of the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme; (b) the number of startups across the country that have received funding under the scheme, along with State/UT-wise details and the amount of funding disbursed; (c) the major projects undertaken under the scheme in the energy sector, deep technology, artificial intelligence and the digital economy; and (d) the steps undertaken by the Government to expand and strengthen the digital agriculture sector in the country? THE MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY; MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF EARTH SCIENCES; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC 18.03.2026 231 GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS; MINISTER OF STATE IN THE DEPARTMENT OF ATOMIC ENERGY; AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE DEPARTMENT OF SPACE (DR. JITENDRA SINGH): (a) to (c) : The Department of Science and Technology (DST), as the nodal Ministry for the RDI Scheme, has formulated and finalized the Implementation Guidelines for the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund, in consultation with the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) and the Department of Expenditure (DoE). These guidelines have been approved by the Executive Council of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). DST has also notified Anusandhan National Research Foundation (Utilization of Research, Development and Innovation Fund) Financial Rules 2026. The scheme being operationalized through a Special Purpose Fund (SPF) established within the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), uses a two-tiered funding structure. Under this mechanism, the SPF will be the first level custodian of RDI Fund and will channels funds to Second Level Fund Managers (SLFMs). As per the approved framework, the Technology Development Board (TDB) and the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) have been designated as Second-Level Fund Managers (SLFMs) and launched calls for project proposals on 4 February 2026 and 13 February 2026, respectively. Further, a call inviting applications from additional eligible entities, including Fund of Funds, to act as SLFMs was issued, which closed on 31 18.03.2026 232 January 2026. Applications have been received and the selection process is currently underway. The SLFMs will provide funding to eligible technology entities, including startups, companies, and industry-led RandD projects, for development of technologies at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 and above in sunrise sectors. These include energy security, energy transition and climate action; deep technologies such as quantum computing, robotics and space; artificial intelligence and its applications in agriculture, health and education; biotechnology, biomanufacturing, synthetic biology, pharmaceuticals and medical devices; and the digital economy, including digital agriculture. (d) : With regard to strengthening the digital agriculture sector, the Scheme supports relevant sub-sectors such as Digital Agriculture (AgriTech), precision agriculture and soil health, AI-enabled agriculture solutions, remote sensing, smart irrigation, climate-smart input optimization, digital soil health monitoring and advisory systems, agri-data and yield analytics platforms, drone-based solutions for crop monitoring, spraying and land mapping, digital farm-to- market value chains, blockchain-based produce traceability and contract farming platforms, and other technology-driven interventions aimed at improving productivity, sustainability and resilience in the agriculture sector. The Scheme also provides flexibility to include additional sub-sectors, based on the recommendations of the concerned Ministries/Departments and subject to necessary approvals. A 'Krishi Sewa' mobile application has also been developed to support 18.03.2026 233 farmers in agricultural activities. advanced AI, sensor systems, and UAVs have been integrated for farm mechanization, processing, and value addition. Additionally, the 'Kisan-Sarathi' portal, a multimedia, multilingual digital agricultural advisory platform has been implemented through 731 KVKs under ICAR to provide localized extension services. RAIL CONNECTIVITY TO WAYANAD 4161. SHRIMATI PRIYANKA GANDHI VADRA: Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) whether the Government is considering proposals to improve inter and intra State rail connectivity to Wayanad Lok Sabha Constituency and if so, the details thereof; (b) whether the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Nanjangud-Nilambur railway line has been finalized and if so, the details thereof including the timeline for submission; (c) the details of railway overbridges and underpasses sanctioned to replace level crossings in Wayanad Lok Sabha Constituency including the current progress; and (d) whether the Government proposes to introduce special tourist trains to promote the unique heritage of Wayanad Lok Sabha Constituency and if so, the details thereof? 18.03.2026 234 THE MINISTER OF RAILWAYS; MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING; AND MINISTER OF ELECTRONICS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI ASHWINI VAISHNAW): (a) to (d) : Wayanad district is already connected with railway network and served by Nilambur Road Station which is catered by the following 16 train services: SN Train No. and Name 1 16325 Nilambur Road - Kottayam Express 2 16326 Kottayam - Nilambur Road Express 3 16349 Thiruvananthapuram North - Nilambur Road Express 4 16350 Nilambur Road - Thiruvananthapuram North Express 5 56322 Nilambur Road - Shoranur Passenger 6 56323 Shoranur - Nilambur Road Passenger 7 56607 Palakkad - Nilambur Road Passenger 8 56608 Nilambur Road - Palakkad Passenger 9 56609 Shoranur - Nilambur Road Passenger 10 56610 Nilambur Road - Shoranur Passenger 11 56611 Shoranur - Nilambur Road Passenger 12 56612 Nilambur Road - Shoranur Passenger 13 56613 Shoranur - Nilambur Road Passenger 14 56614 Nilambur Road - Shoranur Passenger 15 66325 Nilambur Road - Shoranur Passenger 18.03.2026 235 16 66326 Shoranur - Nilambur Road Passenger For providing connectivity of Nilambur road station with Karnataka, the Survey of Nilambur-Nanjangud new line was carried out in 2007-08 but project could not be taken forward due to low traffic projections. However, on public demand, a fresh Final Location Survey (FLS) for Nilambur-Nanjangud new line project (236 Km) has been sanctioned for preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR). The field survey has been completed. After preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR), sanctioning of project requires consultation with various stake-holders including State Governments and necessary approvals viz. appraisal of NITI Aayog, Ministry of Finance etc. As sanctioning of projects is a continuous and dynamic process, exact timelines cannot be fixed. Keralam :- Railway Budget:- Budget allocation in the recent years has increased significantly. Budget allocation for infrastructure projects and safety works, falling fully/partly in the State of Keralam is as under:- Period Outlay 2009-14 ₹ 372 crore/year 2025-26 ₹3,042 crore (more than 8 times) 18.03.2026 236 Recently Completed Projects:- Details of some of the recently completed projects falling fully/partly in Keralam are as under : S.N Project Cost (₹ in Crores) 1 Dindigul - Pollachi - Palghat and Pollachi - Coimbatore gauge conversion (217 km) 1,360 2 Quilon – Tirunelveli - Tiruchendur gauge conversion (357 km) 1,122 3 Mulanturutti-Kuruppantara doubling (24 km) 303 4 Chenganur-Chingavanam doubling (27 km) 436 5 Ambalapuzha-Haripad doubling (18 km) 346 6 Kurruppanthara-Chingavanam doubling (27 km) 749 Ongoing Projects:- Some of the projects falling fully/partly in Keralam which have been taken up are as under: S No. Project Cost (₹ in Crores) 1 Tirunnavaya –Guruvayur new line (35 Km) 138 2 Angamali-Sabarimala new line (111 km) 3,801 3 Ernakulam-Kumbalam doubling (8 km) 595 4 Kumbalam - Thuravur Patch doubling (16 km) 803 5 Trivandrum- Kanyakumari doubling (87 km) 3,786 6 Shoranur - Vallathol doubling (10 km) 367 7 Palakkad Town to Parli Bypass Line (2 Km) 164 8 Alappuzha-Ambalapuzha doubling (13 Km) 324 9 Turavur – Mararikulam doubling (21 Km) 451 Project sanctioned:- As on 01.04.2025, 06 projects (02 new line and 04 doubling) of 266 km length, 18.03.2026 237 costing ₹9,415 crore falling fully/partly in Keralam are sanctioned. The summary is as under:- Category No. of projects Total Length Length Commissioned Balance to complete Expenditure upto March 2025 (₹in Crore) New line 02 146 km 0 km 146 km 309 Doubling /multitracking 04 120 km 26 km 94 km 2,941 Total 06 266 km 26 km 240 km 3,250 Zonal Railway wise details of Railway projects are made available in public domain on Indian Railway’s website. Execution of important infrastructure projects falling fully/partly in the State of Keralam are held up due to delay in land acquisition. Status of land acquisition in the State of Keralam is as under: Total Land required for Projects in Keralam 476 ha Land Acquired 65 ha (14%) Balance Land to be acquired 411 ha (86%) Railway had deposited ₹1,975 crore for land acquisition to Government of Keralam. Support of the Government of Keralam is needed to expedite the land acquisition. For instance, details of some major projects which are delayed due to land acquisition are as under:- 18.03.2026 238 SN Name of the project Total land required (in Ha) Land acquired (in Ha) Balance Land to be acquired (in Ha) 1. Angamali - Sabarimala new line (111 km) 416 24 392 2. Ernakulam – Kumbalam Patch doubling (8 km) 4 3 1 3. Kumbalam – Turavur Patch doubling (16 km) 10 9 1 4. Shoranur - Vallathol doubling (10 km) 5 0 5 Government of India is geared up to execute projects, however success depends upon the support of Government of Keralam. Sanction of any railway project depends upon many parameters/factors which include the following:  Anticipated traffic projections and remunerativeness of the proposed route  First and last mile connectivity provided by the project  Connection of missing links and providing additional route  Augmentation of congested/saturated lines  Demands raised by State Governments/Central Ministries/Public representatives  Railway’s own operational requirements  Socio-economic considerations 18.03.2026 239  Overall availability of funds Completion of Railway project/s depends on various factors which include the following:  Land acquisition by State Government  Forest clearance  Shifting of infringing utilities  Statutory clearances from various authorities  Geological and topographical conditions of area  Law and order situation in the area of project site  Number of working months in a year for particular project site etc. All these factors affect the completion time and cost of the project/s. ROBs/ RUBs:- Sanctioning of works of Road over Bridge (ROB)/Road under Bridge (RUB) in lieu of Level crossings (LCs) is a continuous and dynamic process of Indian Railway. Such works are prioritised and taken up on the basis of its impact on safety in train operations, mobility of trains and impact for road users and feasibility etc. No. of ROBs/ RUBs constructed on Indian Railways during the period 2004-14 vis a vis 2014-26 (Upto Jan’26) is as under: Period ROBs/ RUBs constructed 2004-14 4,148 Nos. 2014-25 (Upto Jan’26) 14,024 Nos. (including 121 Nos. in the State of Keralam) 18.03.2026 240 As on 01.02.2026, 4,802 Nos. ROBs/ RUBs are sanctioned at cost of ₹ 1,14,196 Cr on Indian Railways including 138 Nos. Road Over Bridge (ROB)/Road Under Bridge (RUB) are sanctioned at cost of ₹ 4,835 Cr in Keralam which are at various stages of planning and execution. 01 No. Level Crossing (LC No. 10) exists in Wayanad Lok Sabha Parliamentary and the work for construction of ROB has been sanctioned at this location. General Arrangement Drawing (GAD) has been approved. 106 Nos. ROBs/RUBs are delayed on account of the State Govt. The details are as under: S.No. Reason ROBs/RUBs (in No.) 1. Delay in Land Acquisition by State Govt. 38 2. Finalization of Alignment by State Govt. 63 3. Law and order/ Public Protest/Court cases etc. 2 4. Agency yet to be fixed 3 Completion of any ROB/RUB work depends on various factors like, fixing of approach alignment, approval of General Arrangement Drawing (GAD), land acquisition, removal of encroachment, shifting of infringing utilities, statutory clearances from various authorities, law and order situation in the area of project / work sites, number of working months in a year for particular project / work sites due to climatic conditions etc. All these factors affect the completion time of the projects / works. Further, Railways have taken following measures to expedite the progress of work: i.Joint survey with concerned State Govt./Road Owning Authority is done before 18.03.2026 241 finalizing the General Arrangement Drawing (GAD) to ensure smooth execution. ii.Periodic meetings of Railway and State Government officials are done to resolve various issues related to ROB/RUB works. iii.Standardization of superstructure drawings for various combinations of span, skewness and width of road on Railway portion has been done to avoid delays during the design approval. This has been issued in the form of compendium, which can be directly adopted for Road Over Bridge across Railway lines for expeditious planning. Tourism:- Indian Railways have issued ‘Bharat Gaurav Trains’ policy in November’ 2021, under which theme based tourist circuit trains are being run with the objective to showcase Indian’s rich cultural heritage and magnificent historical places to the people of India and the world. As per this policy, service providers have full flexibility to decide the themes/itineraries for operation of Bharat Gaurav tourist circuit trains, which may include tourist circuits of any part of India including Wayanad, based on market demand, commercial viability etc. POSTAL HERITAGE BUILDINGS 4162. SHRI YUSUF PATHAN: Will the Minister of COMMUNICATIONS be pleased to state: (a) the details of the postal buildings given the status of ‘Heritage Buildings’, circle-wise; 18.03.2026 242 (b) the funds allocated, released and utilised towards maintenance and preservation of such postal heritage buildings since 2014, year and building-wise details; and (c) whether any Public Sector Enterprises or private entities have supported any restoration activities of such postal heritage buildings and if so, the details thereof? THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT; AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS (DR. CHANDRA SEKHAR PEMMASANI): (a) and (b) : The details of the postal buildings given the status of ‘Heritage Buildings’, circle- wise and funds allocated and utilised towards maintenance and preservation of such postal heritage buildings since 2014, is at Statement. (c) : No, sir. The details of funds allocated and utilised towards maintenance and preservation of such postal heritage buildings since 2014, year and building-wise is as under: 18.03.2026 243 Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) 1. Patna GPO 4,30,000 4,26,000 4,00,000 4,00,000 0 0 0 0 2. Bhagalpur HO 2,00,000 2,00,000 0 0 0 0 20,00,000 20,00,000 3. PTC Darbhanga 5,00,000 5,00,000 4,00,000 4,00,000 0 0 10,00,000 10,00,000 4. New Delhi GPO 21,93,480 21,93,480 4,62,397 4,62,397 5,07,219 5,07,219 99,534 99,534 5. Delhi GPO 22,77,546 22,77,546 79,800 79,800 40,03,112 40,03,112 9,59,585 9,59,585 6. Gujarat Ahmedabad GPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7. Ambedkar Chowk PO 0 0 1,95,000 1,82,000 0 0 0 0 8. Chhotta Shimla PO 2,00,000 1,90,000 77,600 77,600 0 0 0 0 9. Kasauli PO 70,000 70,000 0 0 0 0 0 0 10. Mandi HO 8,63,152 6,27,152 0 0 0 0 4,99,600 4,99,600 11. Shimla GPO 0 0 0 0 6,89,700 6,89,700 0 0 12. Summer Hill Post Office 0 0 0 0 27,000 27,000 0 0 13. Circle Office, Bangalore 22,00,000 21,89,307 25,00,000 25,00,000 5,00,000 5,38,026 6,00,000 5,54,496 14. Division Office, Bellary 0 0 5,00,000 5,00,000 5,00,000 4,80,405 5,00,000 4,97,675 15. PTC, Mysuru 5,00,000 5,00,000 1,36,455 1,36,455 1,61,469 1,61,469 5,238 5,238 16. Circle Office, Trivandrum 40,688 38,767 0 0 0 0 0 0 17. Kochi Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 18. Thiruvananthapuram Fort Post Office 0 0 7,35,603 7,35,603 4,83,646 4,83,646 2,75,345 3,02,810 19. Udayamperoor (Old) Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 20. Madhya Pradesh Lashkar Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 21. DAP, Nagpur 0 0 8,01,260 2,03,224 2,00,000 2,00,000 0 0 22. Mumbai GPO 0 0 0 0 30,00,000 24,66,070 3,00,00,000 1,11,97,950 23. Matheran PO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 24. Nagpur GPO 0 0 5,00,000 4,99,701 0 0 0 0 25. Panji HPO 1,50,025 1,50,025 16,500 16,500 10,00,175 10,00,175 5,02,378 5,02,378 26. Pune GPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 27. Solapur HPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 28. North East Tlabung Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 29. Jharsuguda (Old) Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 30. Sambalpur Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 31. Punjab Amritsar HO 6,62,000 6,62,000 4,81,000 4,81,000 18,50,000 18,50,000 6,04,000 6,04,000 32. Rajasthan Ajmer HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 33. Chennai GPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 34. Nagapattinam HO 0 0 5,47,100 5,61,012 2,40,200 2,62,413 9,67,418 10,34,622 35. Philatelic Bureau, Anna Road HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 36. Red Building, Chennai 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 37. Udhagamandalam HO 0 0 0 0 10,00,000 10,44,885 0 0 38. Agra HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 39. Circle Office, Lucknow 5,24,549 3,75,934 0 0 0 0 18,93,580 18,61,443 40. Lucknow GPO 0 0 17,16,964 21,82,122 19,98,743 20,01,199 0 0 41. Prayagraj HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 42. Varanasi City PO 99,900 99,903 0 0 0 0 0 0 43. Varanasi HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 44. Alipore HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 45. Behrampur HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 46. Cooch Behar PO 0 0 0 0 2,00,000 2,00,000 0 0 47. Darjeeling HO 0 0 0 0 19,00,000 19,00,000 20,00,000 20,00,000 48. Kolkata GPO 0 0 20,00,000 20,00,000 3,00,00,000 3,00,00,000 0 0 49. RLO Kolkata 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1,09,11,340 1,05,00,114 1,15,49,679 1,14,17,414 4,82,61,264 4,78,15,319 4,19,06,678 2,31,19,331 S No. Total Name of Building Name of Circle/State 2016-17 2017-18 Odisha Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh West Bengal 2014-15 2015-16 Bihar Delhi Himachal Pradesh Karnataka Kerala Maharashtra 18.03.2026 244 Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) 1. Patna GPO 12,00,000 12,00,000 0 0 15,58,000 15,58,000 20,91,344 14,18,807 2. Bhagalpur HO 0 0 10,00,000 10,00,000 0 0 14,98,000 9,09,464 3. PTC Darbhanga 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4. New Delhi GPO 7,42,744 7,42,744 44,02,370 44,02,370 35,53,799 25,28,250 5,09,111 5,07,620 5. Delhi GPO 18,11,308 18,11,308 37,66,013 37,66,013 40,44,635 40,44,635 1,98,223 1,96,732 6. Gujarat Ahmedabad GPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7. Ambedkar Chowk PO 78,148 78,148 5,30,004 5,30,004 5,30,004 5,30,004 4,87,123 4,87,123 8. Chhotta Shimla PO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9. Kasauli PO 7,95,222 7,95,222 6,87,671 6,87,671 4,40,171 4,40,171 0 0 10. Mandi HO 14,61,389 14,61,389 0 0 5,00,000 2,65,516 0 0 11. Shimla GPO 5,30,641 5,30,641 34,18,762 34,18,762 14,71,821 14,71,821 60,08,500 60,08,500 12. Summer Hill Post Office 0 0 3,36,562 3,36,562 4,66,294 4,66,294 0 0 13. Circle Office, Bangalore 12,00,000 7,19,000 20,00,000 17,19,708 38,00,000 34,71,922 19,00,000 18,81,787 14. Division Office, Bellary 3,00,000 2,51,406 5,00,000 5,00,000 14,497 14,497 5,29,010 5,29,010 15. PTC, Mysuru 29,811 29,811 0 0 0 0 0 0 16. Circle Office, Trivandrum 50,00,000 50,00,000 2,55,035 2,80,411 2,33,000 2,33,000 4,62,983 3,96,326 17. Kochi Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 18. Thiruvananthapuram Fort Post Office 2,02,246 2,02,227 8,67,202 9,18,633 8,61,451 7,40,317 10,90,400 8,45,197 19. Udayamperoor (Old) Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 20. Madhya Pradesh Lashkar Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 21. DAP, Nagpur 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 22. Mumbai GPO 25,00,000 72,00,218 1,50,00,000 1,53,85,711 2,08,000 2,08,000 5,28,00,000 5,28,00,000 23. Matheran PO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 24. Nagpur GPO 0 0 0 0 1,75,000 1,75,000 1,30,000 1,30,000 25. Panji HPO 22,700 22,700 24,66,730 24,66,730 2,03,500 1,85,260 0 0 26. Pune GPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 27. Solapur HPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 28. North East Tlabung Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 29. Jharsuguda (Old) Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 1,89,94,430 1,89,94,430 30. Sambalpur Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 31. Punjab Amritsar HO 8,12,000 8,12,000 4,50,000 4,50,000 13,42,000 13,42,000 23,42,000 23,42,000 32. Rajasthan Ajmer HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 33. Chennai GPO 0 0 16,67,700 16,67,700 0 0 0 0 34. Nagapattinam HO 0 0 5,85,500 4,95,500 6,56,200 7,19,668 0 0 35. Philatelic Bureau, Anna Road HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 36. Red Building, Chennai 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 37. Udhagamandalam HO 7,50,000 9,85,645 0 0 0 0 0 0 38. Agra HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 39. Circle Office, Lucknow 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 40. Lucknow GPO 16,00,000 15,97,625 10,00,000 9,99,599 21,27,000 22,26,662 0 0 41. Prayagraj HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 42. Varanasi City PO 8,69,461 8,69,629 0 0 0 0 0 0 43. Varanasi HO 10,27,575 10,27,315 0 0 0 0 0 0 44. Alipore HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 45. Behrampur HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 46. Cooch Behar PO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 47. Darjeeling HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 48. Kolkata GPO 78,00,000 78,00,000 30,00,000 30,00,000 68,00,000 6,81,336 1,22,90,447 1,02,52,069 49. RLO Kolkata 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2,87,33,245 3,31,37,028 4,19,33,549 4,20,25,374 2,89,85,372 2,13,02,353 8,23,37,141 7,87,04,635 S No. Total Name of Building Name of Circle/State 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 Odisha Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh West Bengal Bihar Delhi Himachal Pradesh Karnataka Kerala Maharashtra 18.03.2026 245 Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) Fund allotted (In Rs.) Fund utilized (In Rs.) 1. Patna GPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 2. Bhagalpur HO 6,70,000 6,70,000 0 0 0 0 3. PTC Darbhanga 0 0 0 0 0 0 4. New Delhi GPO 97,98,164 97,98,164 68,393 64,162 64,12,516 64,10,998 5. Delhi GPO 0 0 0 0 76,030 76,030 6. Gujarat Ahmedabad GPO 16,76,000 16,75,808 1,00,00,000 21,80,000 0 0 7. Ambedkar Chowk PO 60,316 60,316 8. Chhotta Shimla PO 1,68,960 1,68,960 91,187 91,187 5,971 5,971 9. Kasauli PO 0 0 0 0 5,00,000 49,050 10. Mandi HO 11,98,712 8,61,482 0 0 3,33,167 3,33,167 11. Shimla GPO 1,50,00,000 1,50,00,000 0 0 0 0 12. Summer Hill Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 13. Circle Office, Bangalore 20,00,000 20,00,000 80,00,000 80,00,000 14,00,000 14,08,476 14. Division Office, Bellary 5,03,297 5,03,297 0 0 0 0 15. PTC, Mysuru 99,00,000 99,00,000 0 0 0 0 16. Circle Office, Trivandrum 33,65,000 33,46,000 55,99,973 55,94,623 0 0 17. Kochi Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 18. Thiruvananthapuram Fort Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 19. Udayamperoor (Old) Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 20. Madhya Pradesh Lashkar Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 21. DAP, Nagpur 0 0 0 0 0 0 22. Mumbai GPO 8,00,82,082 8,00,82,082 11,30,03,746 11,30,03,746 8,65,12,098 8,65,12,098 23. Matheran PO 0 0 0 0 0 0 24. Nagpur GPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 25. Panji HPO 0 0 98,436 98,436 40,138 40,138 26. Pune GPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 27. Solapur HPO 0 0 0 0 0 0 28. North East Tlabung Post Office 15,00,000 14,99,702 0 0 0 0 29. Jharsuguda (Old) Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 30. Sambalpur Head Post Office 0 0 0 0 0 0 31. Punjab Amritsar HO 13,30,000 13,30,000 10,40,000 10,40,000 3,15,000 3,15,000 32. Rajasthan Ajmer HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 33. Chennai GPO 40,00,000 19,56,850 54,00,000 53,07,950 50,00,000 50,94,060 34. Nagapattinam HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 35. Philatelic Bureau, Anna Road HO 15,00,000 1,06,300 35,00,000 34,94,620 0 0 36. Red Building, Chennai 0 0 0 0 0 0 37. Udhagamandalam HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 38. Agra HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 39. Circle Office, Lucknow 0 0 0 0 0 0 40. Lucknow GPO 25,00,000 0 0 0 50,00,000 46,48,143 41. Prayagraj HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 42. Varanasi City PO 0 0 0 0 0 0 43. Varanasi HO 0 0 0 0 0 0 44. Alipore HO 30,00,000 29,99,999 0 0 4,50,000 4,38,001 45. Behrampur HO 30,00,000 30,00,000 0 0 0 0 46. Cooch Behar PO 30,00,000 29,99,097 0 0 0 0 47. Darjeeling HO 50,00,000 50,00,000 0 0 0 0 48. Kolkata GPO 30,00,000 30,00,000 0 0 0 0 49. RLO Kolkata 50,00,000 49,91,701 0 0 0 0 15,71,92,215 15,08,89,442 14,68,01,735 13,88,74,724 10,61,05,236 10,53,91,448 S No. Total 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 Name of Building Name of Circle/State Odisha Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh West Bengal Bihar Delhi Himachal Pradesh Karnataka Kerala Maharashtra 18.03.2026 246 MATSYA-6000 4163. SHRI DHAIRYASHEEL SAMBHAJIRAO MANE:

Spoke on 2026-03-18T00:00:00.000Z

In debate Presentation of 7th and 8th reports of the Committee on the Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes