FCI Aravali Gypsum and Minerals India Limited (FAGMIL) was incorporated in 2003 as a fully-owned government firm engaged in mining and marketing of mineral gypsum. Its Chairman and Managing Director Sunil Dayal spoke to HT on a range of issues. Excerpts:
Please give a brief outline on how FAGMIL has helped farmers during the last 7 years?
The company had supplied 7,59,461 MT so far for reclamation of sodic land in UP, Haryana and Punjab and with this 94,933 acres of land has been reclaimed and made cultivable. During 2009-10, we supplied 1,15,313 MT agriculture grade gypsum powder to UP ... and planning to supply about 2.5 lakh MT during the current financial year. The company is also proposing to establish the mobile soil testing laboratory.
Has the company conducted research studies for better use of gypsum powder in fields?
Yes, the company has spent about Rs. 1.04 crore for research studies through various agricultural universities by directly applying gypsum powder on the crops and found the higher growth of yields. The same was demonstrated through melas and exhibition by distributing pamphlet, audio and video visuals to the farmers.
What measures does the firm take to ensure quality?
We have introduced quality management system in all operating mines .... Our Mohangarh mine was certified as ISO 14001 during the last year. Now, we are focusing for ISO 14001 for our other mines.
Other than gypsum, which are the other minerals the company is focusing on?
We have diversified into the fields rock phosphate and alternate sources of potash such as gluconite to fulfil the requirements of the country.
Can you elaborate on the current financial position of the company ?
During the year 2009-10, the company earned a revenue of Rs. 45.61 crore reflecting 7.33 per cent growth over the last year and earned net profit of Rs. 10.34 crore, which is 14.43 per cent higher than previous year....The net worth of the company has reached at a level of Rs. 67.50 crore from 7.33 crore recording a growth of 820 per cent over a period of seven years.
Can you elaborate on the current financial position of the company ?
During the year 2009-10, the company earned a revenue of Rs. 45.61 crore reflecting 7.33 per cent growth over the last year and earned net profit of Rs. 10.34 crore, which is 14.43 per cent higher than previous year....The net worth of the company has reached at a level of Rs. 67.50 crore from 7.33 crore recording a growth of 820 per cent over a period of seven years.
What services is the company extending to the people around the mining area?
Every year, the company is incurring expenditure on welfare of society. The schools in village near by the mines have been provided with computer lab with air conditioner settings to educate the children in IT.