NMDC-KIOCL merger on cards

The Union government is planning to merge Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Ltd (KIOCL) with India's largest iron ore merchant miner, NMDC—a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) soon, according to a senior steel ministry official.

- NITIN KUMAR & HARSH KUMAR

This follows KIOCL's challenges in commencing mining operations at Devadari in Karnataka, the official said. Detailed proposals, currently being prepared, will assess whether NMDC needs to make any payments to the steel ministry or the Centre in relation to the merger, it is learnt. The report will also evaluate the viability of the merger. The merger or amalgamation will require additional clearances from several ministries, including finance, as well as from regulatory bodies, sources pointed out.