PTI reported that Dr Raman Singh chief minister of Chhattisgarh accepted that maoists are hindering acquisition of land for TATA Steel's proposed f integrated greenfield steel plant in the state.

Dr Singh said ultra left outfits are inciting villagers against parting with their land for the project.

Dr Singh, however, said at a press conference that the situation had improved and 80 per cent compensation to villagers had been disbursed.

He hoped the required land would be acquired soon by the government to facilitate an early start of the project.

TATA Steel requires 1,800 acres for the first phase of the proposed plant, which will be set up in two phases at a cost of INR 19000 crore.

(Sourced from PTI)