NEW DELHI, NOV 6: The private sector may demand public sector reforms, but does not want to stick its neck out for it. Leading chambers of commerce have not responded to the government's plea of suggesting names of professionals who could be non-official directors on the boards of PSUs.

Four months ago, the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) had written to over 40 organisations which included professional bodies and chambers of commerce to send in names of experts and professionals. PESB wanted to create a standing panel of non-official directors who could be appointed in PSUs as as when vacancies arose. This effort was a result of a Ministry of Industry directive and the initiative taken by PESB to fill the posts of non-official directors. But sources say that none of the top chambers of commerce like the CII, FICCI and Assocham have responded. The plan to induct private sector professionals in PSUs appears to be faltering as a result.

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