The high-profile panel comprises of the cabinet, finance and aviation secretary and a three-member committee headed by cabinet secretary. On Saturday, July 25, the committee had a long discussion with the Air India CMD Arvind Jadhav and discussed various issues related to the turnaround of the Maharaja. It also discussed Air India’s key cost-cutting initiatives and the relevance of Air India in this tough period. The panel of secretaries has also asked for a detailed report on cost-cutting measures which should be submitted on a quarterly basis. The panel has further asked Air India to give a time frame for cost-cutting measures.
 
According to reliable sources, the panel will again meet in two to four weeks; this also depends on how fast Air India submits its redrafted strategy. Once it is through, the panel and finance ministry’s analysis and views on infusing funds and its quantum will be presented to the government for further approval.