Thursday, March 9 2006 14:54 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

New Delhi: A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) to improve the primary health sector in the country, the Rajya Sabha was informed today (Mar 09 2006).

Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vyalar Ravi said in a written reply that the objective of the MoU which came into effect from January 7, 2006, is to promote, establish and operate primary health care projects in selected states in the country.

The knowledge, skills and resources of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin will be harnessed to help improve primary health care in India starting with pilot projects in two or more states.

Funds will be provided by the government of India, state governments and AAPI, he said and added that the MoU would be implemented in a time-bound manner.

In reply to another question, Ravi said a proposal for giving voting rights to Indian citizens only (not PIOs) who are away from their place of residence on account of employment education or otherwise has been approved by the government.

A bill in this regard has been introduced in the Rajya Sabha on February 28, 2006, he said.