Question : SAMBHER SALTS LTD. .



(a) the profits and losses incurred by Sambher Salts Limited during the last three years;

(b) whether the decision to the effect of privatizing Sambher Salts Limited have been taken;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether the officers and staff have opposed the disinvestment in this undertaking and given suggestions for its proper functioning;

(e) if so, the details thereof; and

(f) the steps taken for providing the job security of the workers in case of disinvestment?

Answer given by the minister

MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES AND PUBLIC ENTERPRISES (DR. VALLABHBHAI KATHIRIA)

(a) The company has incurred losses during the last three years as under:

 Rs. In lakhs
1998-99	18.09
1999-2000	203.17
2000-2001	327.30
(b) & (c) Yes, Sir. The matter is with the Ministry of Disinvestment.

(d) & (e): The Officers and Staff have been opposing the disinvestment of Sambhar Salts Limited and have made suggestions like removal of restriction imposed by the State Government/local bodies for free flow of water into the Lake, removal of encroachment from the Company`s land and installation of a Refinery.

(f) With disinvestment, a company remains subject to the labour laws of the country and its Standing Orders. Further, the model Shareholders Agreement carries a provision for no retrenchment for one year and then rightsizing through VRS no inferior than Government Scheme.