Union Minister of Steel, Mines and Labour & Employment Narendra Singh Tomar has written a letter to the Chief Ministers of states soliciting their views on amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act 1957 and relevant rules. The MMDR Act 1957 provides the legislative framework which governs the mining sector in the country.
Expressing concern over the negative public perception with regard to mining, the Minister has reportedly urged states to come together to evolve a ‘transparent and efficient system of allocation of leases, along with a robust regulatory framework that best serves India’s interests.’ Sources in the Goa government on Wednesday confirmed about the letter received from the Union Minister.
Chief Ministers of Goa and Rajasthan are likely to meet the Minister on July 3 in New Delhi.
The Minister has initiated steps to find ‘expeditious and acceptable solutions’ to the mining issues confronting the country. The Minister is scheduled to meet Chief Ministers of some states this week and also visit other states in first half of this month.
During the visit, the Minister, along with his key officials, will meet Chief Ministers, State Mining Ministers and other representatives from the State for intensive deliberations, sources in Goa Government said.
The Minister’s letter also enunciates the need to address environmental concerns, and clearly spells out that ‘intergeneration equity’ should not be compromised in the process of easing the mining sector. Priorities laid out also include re-invigorating of mining sector, improving investment scenario and reaping benefits of enhanced technology and best practices.
With Goa government struggling to > re-start its mining which was banned by the Supreme Court in the wake of illegal mining saga, the Goa Chief Minister's scheduled meeting with the Union Minister assumes significance.
