(a) whether the production of iron-ore in the country is commensurate with the demand;
(b) if so, the demand of iron ore produced by steel plants of both public and private sectors in the country;
(c) whether iron ore is imported from foreign countries also in view of gap between its production and demand;
(d) if so, the share exported of iron ore out of the total production in the country; and
(e) the steps taken by the Government for increasing production of iron ore in the country?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF STEEL AND MINES (SHRI VISHNU DEO SAI)
(a)&(b): Yes, Madam. The overall production of iron ore in the country has been above the domestic consumption by domestic industry. Total production of iron ore during 2013-14 is about 152.43 Million Tonnes whereas the estimated consumption is about 110.50 Million Tonnes.
(c) Iron and Steel is in deregulated sector. Decision regarding import of Iron ore is taken by the individual steel producers based on their requirements and commercial considerations etc.
(d) During 2013-14, iron ore export from the country was about 14.41 Million Tonnes which is approximately 9.4% of the total production.
(e) In order to meet the demands of steel sector and to increase the availability of domestically produced iron ore fiscal measures have been adopted by Government by imposing an Export Duty of 30% ad valorem on iron ore and 5% ad valorem on iron ore pellets.