Question : PRICE OF IRON ORE

(a) whether the prices of iron ore is increasing constantly;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether iron ore producers do not agree to decrease the price of iron ore;

(d) if so, the percentage of increase in the price of iron ore during each of the last three years, till-date; and

(e) the steps taken by the Government to check the rise in prices of iron ore in the country?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CHEMICALS & FERTILIZERS AND MINISTRY OF MINES (SHRI B.K.HANDIQUE)

(a) &(b): As per available information, prices of iron ore are increasing in domestic market due to hike in rail freight as well as road transportation charges and not due to any supply constraints.

(c): No, Sir.

(d) &(e): Does not arise in view of (c) above.