Raipur
Vishnudev Sai Cabinet has taken a big decision in the interest of the steel industries of the state. It was decided to give rebate of Re 1 per unit in energy charges to mini steel plants of the state. This exemption has been given to steel industries with capacity less than 1 MW and more than 2.5 MVA, except captive power plants. The state government has said that this decision has been taken with the aim of providing relief to the steel industries by keeping them competitive due to industrial and economic recession.
In the state of Chhattisgarh, HV-4 category power consumers – mini steel plants, steel industries which do not have captive power plant or have less than one mega watt and their load is more than 2.5 MVA, are required to remain competitive due to industrial and economic recession. For the purpose of saving and providing relief, the cabinet took an important decision and decided to give a maximum rebate of Re 1 per unit in energy charges from 01 October 2024 to 31 March 2025 under the special relief package. Went.
Let us tell you that steel industries in Chhattisgarh had stopped production in protest against the increased electricity bills. Around 150 mini steel plants and 50 other sponge iron plants were on strike from July 29, 2024. Due to increase in electricity rates, the cost of making iron had increased significantly. In view of the situation, Chhattisgarh Mini Steel Plant Association had demanded from the state government to reduce the electricity duty from 8 percent to 0 for 15 years along with a grant of Rs 1.40 for five years.
Mini Steel Industries Association expressed gratitude
Chhattisgarh Mini Steel Plant Association President Anil Nachrani expressed gratitude on this decision of the state government. He said that there is a huge difference between our demand and the proposal approved by the Cabinet, yet we are grateful and satisfied that our views were heard. This decision shows that we were successful in convincing the government that the steel industry is an important part of the economy of Chhattisgarh.
He said that we are confident that we will continue constructive dialogue with the government going forward and work together to support all the steel industries in the state. Our objective is to strengthen this sector and contribute to the overall development of Chhattisgarh.
