Team Herald
PANJIM: The State government is in the process of drafting new rules under which mineral concessions for minor minerals, including sand, would be auctioned.
Also, in line with iron ore leases, extraction of minor minerals not impacting or having a minimal impact on the environment and livelihood would be awarded with ‘stars’.
At a recent Central Coordination-cum-Empowered Committee (CCEC) meeting in New Delhi, Mines and Geology Director Prasanna Acharya said the State is in the process of drafting Minor Mineral Rules and that mineral concession for minor minerals would be granted through auction.
Acharya also said the government is considering adopting the Mining Surveillance System (MSS) and Star Rating system for the minor minerals.
The Union Mines Ministry had issued directions to all mineral rich States to adopt the Star Rating scheme and MSS for minor minerals. During the meeting, the States have been asked to confirm their acceptance to the Ministry within a month. MSS has already been put to use for 65 iron ore mining leases and 42 triggers have been generated and all inspected.
Further, the government is considering setting up a District Mineral Fund for minor minerals. For iron ore, the total collected till date is Rs 132 crore.
The Central government’s Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) meant to provide for the welfare of areas and people affected by mining operations will be also implemented using funds generated by DMF for minor minerals.
