<p>Sriprakash jaiswal — the usually sombre coal minister — is currently on a trip to Hong Kong and Singapore, along with an entourage of senior officials. <br /><br />The coal sector needs a big dose of efficiency to keep up with the nation’s growing demands. The aim: to woo foreign investors for this. But would a foreigner invest in mining in India when he cannot own or control the assets? <br /><br />Indian laws restrict ownership of coal mines to government-owned Coal India and Singareni Collieries Co. These companies can only involve the private sector as mine development operators in washeries, technology and contract mining. <br /><br />Then, remuneration probably is at a pre-determined price for every tonne mined. It is doubtful whether mining giants like Rio Tinto or BHP Billiton will take up such modest roles. At best, there could be offers from mid-sized firms. If at all.<br /><br /><strong>Strictly Business</strong><br />Toyota has said it will recall 859,000 units of its RAV4 sports utility vehicle and 19,000 units of the Lexus HS 250H car in the US and Canada to fix a problem with the rear suspension arm.<br /><br />(This story was published in Businessworld Issue Dated 13-08-2012)</p>