This refers to the column “PMO and the PM” (Raisina Hill, February 28). The piece states that “a decision taken with the express approval of the prime minister has been questioned by an officiating head of a public sector undertaking, who also happens to be a civil servant. This is about the prime minister’s directive that the state-controlled Coal India Limited should import coal and meet the shortfall in coal supplies to power projects under its fuel supply agreement.”
It is expressly denied that any such statement questioning the directive of the prime minister has been made by the officiating chief executive of Coal India Limited. In fact, in the press conference following the declaration of Coal India’s quarterly results, the chief executive had categorically stated that the message from the Prime Minister’s Office is clear, that power projects have to be assured the fuel supply they need in the interest of the growing economy of the country. Accordingly, Coal India will take steps to step up coal production and get all clearances expedited for taking up fresh areas for coal mining to ramp up production. Regarding imports, it has categorically been stated that the primary focus of Coal India will be on increasing production to meet the demand as Coal India’s core competence is mining and it is not in the business of import of coal. However, in case of shortfall, import may have to be resorted to but there are many issues related to import that would first have to be resolved in consultation with the Ministry of Power. Firm demand for imported coal will also be required from power companies, which has not been forthcoming in the past. Coal India, being a public sector undertaking, respects and is guided by the directives of the prime minister.
Neelam Kapur
Principal Director General
(Media & Communication)
Press Information Bureau
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