Q.2085 Bilateral Assistance to Afghanistan

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that India is the 6th largest donor to Afghanistan;

(b) if so, the details of the projects under the bilateral assistance programme to Afghanistan and the funds allocated project-wise;

(c) the current status of these projects;

(e) whether India has agreed to give training to Afghanistan forces; and (f) if so, details thereof ?

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SMT. PRENEET KAUR)

(a) According to available information, it is believed that India is the fifth or sixth largest donor in terms of the pledged amount of bilateral assistance of US Dollar 2 billion.

(b) & (c) India has undertaken projects in all parts of Afghanistan, in a wide range of sectors, including hydro-electricity, power transmission lines, road construction, industry, telecommunications, information and broadcasting and capacity building, which have been identified by the Afghan Government as priority areas for reconstruction and development. In addition, India has undertaken community level small development projects in the field of agriculture, rural development, education and health throughout Afghanistan that have direct and visible impact on community life and with a focus of local ownerships and management . Moreover free medical treatment was provided by five Indian medical missions in Afghanistan. While some of these projects have been completed, other projects are in the process of being implemented. The yearwise expenditure incurred on various projects since 2007 is as under:

(i) 2007-2008 Rs. 467.55 crores
(ii) 2008-2009 Rs. 410.41 crores
(iii) 2009-2010 Rs. 208.49 crores
(iv) 2010-2011 Rs. 349.75 crores
(v) 2011-2012 Rs. 133.00 crores (as on October 31)

(d) & (e) India has agreed to assist, as mutually determined, in the training, equipping and capacity building programmes for Afghan National Security Forces.

http://www.mea.gov.in/mystart.php?id=220218693.