GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF STEEL

RAJYA SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.443

FOR ANSWER ON 24/11/2011

PER CAPITA CONSUMPTION OF STEEL

443. SHRI PRABHAT JHA:

Will the Minister of STEEL be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the current figures of per capita consumption of steel in India is very low as compared to the world's average and the average of the developed countries;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) if not, the reasons therefor;

(d) whether it is also a fact that a study has been conducted to ascertain the per capita demand of iron and steel among the rural population and also to determine factors that many increase this demand;

(e) if so, the details thereof;

(f) whether policy measures have been initiated in the light of the findings of this study, and related suggestions; and

(g) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF STEEL (SHRI BENI PRASAD VERMA)

(a)&(b): During 2010, India’s per capita consumption of finished steel stood at 55 kg, which was low when compared to the world average per capita consumption of finished steel of 206 kg and average of developed countries of 324 kg. (source: World Steel Association).

(c) Does not apply.

(d) Yes, Sir.

(e) In order to obtain a full picture of the pattern and trends of steel consumption in rural India, an all India survey has been commissioned by the Ministry of Steel, Government of India. The survey is coordinated by Joint Plant Committee (JPC), Kolkata and the field work has been carried out by IMRB International Ltd. As on date, the survey has been completed and a draft report submitted to Ministry of Steel.

(f)&(g): The draft report is currently being examined by Ministry of Steel for drawing up measures/roadmaps for implementation of the recommendations of the said report.

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