The Union Cabinet has sanctioned a substantial ₹11,440 crore package to revitalize Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), commonly known as Vizag Steel, addressing its critical financial challenges.
Crux
This strategic intervention aims to infuse ₹10,300 crore as equity capital into RINL and convert ₹1,140 crore of its working capital loans into 7% non-cumulative preference share capital, redeemable after a decade. This initiative is expected to resolve many of RINL’s longstanding operational issues.
Key Details
Financial Health of RINL: As of March 31, 2024, RINL reported a net worth of ₹(-)4,538 crore, with current assets at ₹7,686.24 crore and current liabilities at ₹26,114.92 crore. The company had exhausted its sanctioned borrowing limits and defaulted on capital expenditure loan repayments and interest payments in June 2024.
Operational Plans: The revival plan outlines that RINL will commence full production with two blast furnaces in January 2025 and expand to three blast furnaces by August 2025. This phased approach is designed to stabilize the Indian steel market by augmenting steel production and safeguarding the livelihoods of employees and those dependent on the plant’s operations.
Strategic Measures: In addition to financial support, efforts will be made to secure raw materials and modernize the plant, ensuring its long-term sustainability and competitiveness in the steel industry.
Debt-Ridden RINL: Key Points
Financial Struggles: RINL (Vizag Steel) faces severe financial distress with a negative net worth of ₹4,538 crore as of March 2024.
Loan Defaults: The company has defaulted on capital expenditure loan repayments and interest payments, exhausting its borrowing limits.
Revival Plan: The government has approved a ₹11,440 crore package, including ₹10,300 crore equity capital infusion and conversion of ₹1,140 crore loans into preference shares.
Operational Recovery: RINL plans to ramp up production with two blast furnaces in early 2025, progressing to three by August 2025.
Strategic Measures: The revival includes securing raw materials, modernizing facilities, and stabilizing operations to meet industry demands.
Summary of the news
Why in News |
Key Details |
Cabinet approved ₹11,440 crore revival package for RINL (Vizag Steel) |
Package includes ₹10,300 crore equity infusion and ₹1,140 crore conversion of loans to preference shares. |
Objective of the Revival Package |
Address financial distress of RINL, improve operations, and increase steel production. |
Timeline for Operational Recovery |
Restart two blast furnaces by January 2025 and add a third by August 2025. |
Financial Health of RINL |
Net worth of ₹(-)4,538 crore as of March 31, 2024, with liabilities of ₹26,114.92 crore. |
Loan Conversion Details |
₹1,140 crore of working capital loans will be converted into 7% non-cumulative preference shares. |
Ministry/Authority Involved |
Ministry of Steel, Government of India. |
Strategic Aim of the Revival Plan |
To stabilize RINL and enhance its competitiveness in the steel industry. |
Long-term Goal |
Modernize the plant, secure raw materials, and ensure financial sustainability for RINL. |