(a) whether the Government proposes to launch any Research and Development (R&D) projects in order to improve the productivity, efficiency and competitiveness in steel industry in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise including Madhya Pradesh; and
(c) the funds earmarked by the Government for this purpose, project-wise?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF STEEL, MINES AND LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT (SHRI VISHNU DEO SAI)
(a)to(c): Ministry of Steel has launched a Research & Development Scheme, ‘Promotion of R&D in the Iron & Steel Sector’, in the 11th Five Year Plan, which has been continued in the 12th Five Year Plan. Under this scheme, so far 9 R&D projects of national importance have been approved costing Rs.125.20 crore with financial assistance of Rs.89.22 crore from Plan Fund. Details with regard to project cost, implementing agencies and locations are annexed.
In addition, Ministry of Steel has proposed one new project viz. Development of technology for Cold Rolled Grain Oriented (CRGO) Steel Sheets during the 12 Five Year Plan with total cost of Rs.500 crore.