NEW DELHI: The state-owned EESL today refuted allegations of irregularities in procurement of LED bulbs for the Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) scheme, terming them as "false, misleading and devoid of any facts". "The company follows all the norms and procedures that are applicable to CPSUs and is audited by CAG. The programme is designed to reduce energy consumption in the lighting sector and promote LED based efficient lighting products.Elaborating, the ministry said the procurement norms for the LED programmes allow only those bidders who have manufacturing facilities in India. As a result, almost all LED bulbs are being assembled in India and the manufacturing capacity has risen to about 3-4 crore LED bulbs every month now from about 1-2 lakh 3 years ago.It said no Chinese or any other manufacturer that is yet to set up manufacturing facilities in India has participated in the tenders.The prices of LED bulbs have reduced by 88 per cent while the quality has improved. The procurement price of 7W LEDs in January 2014 was Rs 310, which is down to Rs 38 in August 2016 for a 9W LED bulb.

Source: Economic Times March 28, 2017 07:52 UTC