Mining industry, which is facing rough weather owing to the delay in sanctioning of mandatory permission from the authorities, has sought government’s support for the revival of the industry to spur economic activity and creation of employment opportunities in the State.
Mining Engineers Association of India (MEAI) strongly feels that there are ample scope for proper utilisation of mineral resources in coastal A.P. and establishment of new industries. Association president Arijit Bagchi and other representatives have submitted a detailed memorandum to the government in this regard.
They say heavy minerals such as ilmenite, zircon, rutile and garnet are widely available in the coastal belt and the minerals are used in production of paints, paper, ceramics, abrasive, insulation, cosmetics, leather, glass, artificial gems, aircraft parts, ceramics, filtration media and artificial human joints.
The Association observed that rigid laws, inordinate delay in sanctioning of permissions and handing over of the identified forest land to industries are the main reasons for the poor growth in the sector. According to them, major portion of mining areas are under the possession of villagers and the industries are ready to pay compensation for the land. “The govt. should take opinions of all stakeholders to come up with an exclusive mining policy. Focus should be laid on industries in backward regions of the State,” said Mr. Bagchi. He also sought exemption of 10 per cent export duty in view of the huge drop in demand for mining products.
Several sand mining industries including Trimex Sands Private Limited are keen to expand their activities only after the announcement of incentives. They feel that expansion activity without government’s support is not viable at the current juncture.
