Mr Virbhadra Singh union steel minister during an interview with Ms Sreelatha Menon of Business Standard, while addressing several iron ore mining issues effecting the development of Indian steel industry asserted that after mines are exhausted, the land should be returned to the original owners.

The steel and mining related portion of the interview is as under

Q - Why were steel and mining split into separate portfolios?

A - It is the prerogative of the government. I feel, for administrative reasons, making these one will facilitate decision-making. At least iron ore mines should be with the steel ministry. Mines are allotted by the mining ministry and we require iron ore mines for steel. Now, it will take longer. But it is for the prime minister to decide.

To read the full interview, please visit
http://steelguru.com/interview/detail/26/Iron_ore_mines_should_be_with_Steel_Ministry.html