(a) the total funds allocated to the Joint Plant Committee (JPC) and the Economic Research Unit under his Ministry during the last two years;
(b) the details of work done by them during the said period;
(c) whether the targets fixed by them have been achieved; and
(d) if not, the reasons thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF STEEL (SHRI BRAJA KISHORE TRIPATHY)
(a) No funds have been allocated to the Joint Plant Committee (JPC) and the Economic Research Unit (ERU) from the Consolidated Fund of India, since their inception. Expenditure on the functioning of JPC is met from the amount available under the JPC Account General Fund that was created through levy of cess during the control era. Expenditure on ERU is met from the interest accruals under the Steel Development Fund.
(b) The Joint Plant Committee performed the important task of collection and dissemination of data related to the Iron and Steel sector. Analysis of data and trends in the steel industry alongwith market research activities and promotion of steel consumption were the other major activities of the JPC.
The ERU performed tasks related to general research on the steel industry and economy, project appraisals, collection and analysis of global market information, study on work related to steel at the World Trade Organisation and the matters related to the Steel Exporters` Forum.
(c) Yes, Sir.
(d) Not applicable, in view (c) above.