Question : MONEY SPENT ON IDLE TIME WAGES



(a) Whether a large sum of money is being spent on idle time wages by the Government due to closure of sick industries in various sectors;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and (

(c) the measures taken to reduce such wages?

Answer given by the minister


THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (DR. RAMAN SINGH)

(a) to (c) : The Government provides non-plan loans to terminally sick public sector units for payment of wages and salaries, meeting cash losses, working capital expenses etc. During the year 1999-2000, an amount of Rs.1735 crore was allocated for the purpose. The allocation for the year 2000-2001 has been reduced to Rs.1236 crore. State-wise details are not centrally maintained.