Government will take all possible steps to revive the ailing Hindustan Photo Films factory here, Minister of State for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises G M Siddeshwara said today.
During a factory visit, the minister held discussions with some staff members, trade union leaders and officials, and assured them of taking steps to revive the sick unit under the 'Make in India' programme.
Later speaking to reporters, Siddeshwara said he had been asked to visit all loss making PSUs in the country and submit a report on the viability of reviving them.
The report would have details on product development, marketing status, export opportunity of the units and the possibility to bring them under Make In India project, for revival, he said
Referring to the factory which has remained closed for the last five years, he said ways and means have to be found for the real revival of the unit as the advent of digital cameras had rendered production of photo films unviable.
The workers suggested the unit be utilised to produce X-Ray films for Government and private hospitals, by which its cost could be be reduced from the present Rs 600 to Rs 150.
The minister assured them all possible help, while saying there were also other loss making PSUs.
About 263 staff, down from the original strength of 5,000 a few years ago were present. Some workers had recently taken VRS.
