Andaman Nicobar Plan approved

New Delhi, Mar 17 (UNI) The Rs 1120 crore Annual Plan for Andaman and Nicobar Island for the year 2006-07 was finalised, here yesterday evening, at a meeting between Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Lt Governor of A&N Island Lt Gen (Retd) M M Lakhera In addition, Rs 235 crores will be available to the Union Territory under Rajiv Gandhi Rehabilitation Package.

Mr Ahluwalia said that the relief and rehabilitation programme for the Island after Tsunami went well but the progress was not equally satisfying in the reconstruction programme. He said there is need to review the progress and remove critical problems being faced in the reconstruction programme. He said that the Prime Minister has directed Planning Commission to ensure that reconstruction of the Islands is a model development effort.

The Union Territory Administration was asked to introduce quarterly review of development programmes to ensure timely removal of impediments.

He said the Planning Commission would give its assessment on the progress of reconstruction programme and problems needing immediate attention to the Prime Minister and directed Member-Secretary, Planning Commission, Mr Rajeeva Ratna Shah to take a meeting of all Central Ministries involved in the reconstruction programme to review the progress and remove critical bottlenecks.

Issues related to telecommunication, air link, health facilities, environmental clearance problem, tourism, drinking water and identification of land for agriculture and habitation would be taken up at the meeting.

Attention was drawn to adverse female sex ratio, high drop out rates and gender differential in employment. It was pointed out that the Human Development Report, which is under preparation at present, would help in evolving a long-term strategy for harmonious development.

UNI PC SR PM1505