2002 (5) TMI 672 - AT - Central Excise

Summary

Issues:
1. Eligibility of Modvat credit on lubricants used in the crusher and material-handling machinery located outside the factory under Rule 57Q.

Analysis:
The judgment revolves around the eligibility of Modvat credit on lubricants used in machinery located outside the factory under Rule 57Q. The appellants, cement manufacturers, claimed Modvat credit on lubricants used in their crusher and material-handling machinery situated in their mines. The Asstt. Commissioner disallowed the credit, stating that the lubricants were not used in the factory as required by Rule 57Q. The Commissioner (Appeals) upheld this decision, leading to the current appeal.

The Counsel for the appellants argued that the crushing of limestone into chips was integral to the cement manufacturing process, citing relevant case law. However, the JDR contended that for capital goods to qualify under Rule 57Q, they must be used in the factory of production. The Tribunal noted that the mine and crusher were not part of the factory's approved plan, a crucial requirement under Rule 57Q during the relevant period. The Tribunal rejected the argument that goods used 'in relation to' manufacturing should qualify, emphasizing the factory's approved area as per Rule 44.

The Tribunal referenced a previous decision by a Two-Member Bench that deemed the machinery ineligible capital goods under Rule 57Q in the same case. Following this precedent, the Tribunal held that the lubricants used in machinery located outside the factory were not eligible for Modvat credit. The Tribunal distinguished the cited case law, highlighting the Supreme Court's decision that complex operations may not always constitute 'manufacture' under the Central Excise Act. Ultimately, the Tribunal upheld the lower authority's decision, rejecting the appeal.

In conclusion, the judgment clarifies that for Modvat credit eligibility under Rule 57Q, capital goods must be used within the factory's approved plan. Machinery located outside the factory, even if integral to the manufacturing process, does not qualify for such credit. The decision underscores the importance of adherence to statutory requirements and approved factory plans in determining Modvat credit eligibility.