Privatisation
Q- Like Air India, Do you think the govt should gradually sell off its stake in all public sector units?
A: I don't think that the govt should sell its stake in all PSU's because there are some sectors and areas of operation which are essential for public welfare but are not very profitable ( eg BSNL serves many remote locations) and some sectors are critical for national security such as atomic power. Loss making PSU's in which there is no chance for revival ,or sectors where the govt is not needed and where its presence is hampering fair competition can be considered for strategic sale.
Q: Do you think we should privatise Railways to address the fund crunch and infrastructure inadequacy?
A: I don't think we should privatise Railways as it has a prominent Social objective along with the revenue dimension. It is one of the most extensive and affordable means of transport especially for the poor sections of society and is operating on many routes which would not be profitable for the private sector. However we should certainly promote private participation in Railways in manufacturing as well as operations and should go for corporatization of Railways rather than privatisation to bring professionalism and efficiency for eg Delhi Metro model.
Q: How can we revive loss making PSU's? For eg if you are made the CEO of BSNL, what steps will you take to revive it?
A: For reviving loss making PSU's I think 2 things are important. Firstly restoring the balance between social objectives and commercial aspects. Secondly bringing professionalism in the management. With respect to BSNL, I would bring in professional experts in the management structure, create a work culture based on performance, with consumer focus. I would take steps to increase the customer base by steps such as introduction of 4G ( BSNL still gives only 3G network), tapping the vast rural areas, north eastern and hilly areas where other service providers are not so dominant along with a focus on marketing new products and services to customers. I would also focus on generating funds through non govt sources such as through domestic and international markets, revenues by leasing a part of its vast tower network etc.
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