New Delhi (PTI): Concerned over the delays in setting up of steel projects worth over Rs 2 lakh crore proposed by players like Posco, ArcelorMittal and domestic firms JSW and Tata, the government on Sunday said it would hold discussions with respective states to remove hurdles.

Global steel giants ArcelorMittal and Posco, who have proposed to set up three plants of 12 million tonnes each with a combined investment of Rs 1.5 lakh crore, are facing inordinate delays in acquiring land and environment and mining approvals to give shape to their plans.

In an exclusive interview to PTI, Steel Minister Virbhadra Singh said he would work to remove hurdles in the path of private and PSU steel producers alike.

"Different companies have different problems. I think, our responsibility is to solve the problems. I am minister for Steel not only for Public sector but of the entire sector," he said.

The minister said he would hold meetings with his state counterparts to expedite such clearances and would also look for a speedy environment clearence from the centre.

"If they won't be able to get land in time, leases in time then the entire process of setting up plants will be delayed. I will take up the matters with the state governments regarding granting of leases Whether in public sector or private sector and I will also see that the entire process is expedited," he added.