“Exploration and extraction of mineral resources leads to development and prosperity,” stated the Union Mines & Steel Minister Narendra Singh Tomar in his inaugural address at Mining Mazma 2015, held in Bengaluru, Karnataka, today. “Allocation of mineral resources through auctions will herald a new era in the mining sector,” Shri Tomar added.Underlining the importance of social welfare and societal goodwill, Shri Tomar said, “It is our responsibility to think of the development and upliftment of areas and people affected by mining. Government on its part has decided to constitute DMF and launched Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) for the welfare of people and areas affected by mining. Contribution to DMF should be seen in that spirit. This will help enhance the image of the mining sector in the eyes of people affected by mining.” The PMKKKY envisions to substantially raising the all-round standard of living of mining affected people by utilising 60% of its fund for sustained high priority areas like drinking water supply, health care, education etc. and the balance amount for creating a supportive and conducive infrastructural environment.
The Secretary (Mines) Shri Balvinder Kumar elaborated on the steps being taken by Ministry of Mines to revive mining in the country. He outlined the steps taken by the government to kick-start auction process by the states. He also explained how advanced technologies will be used to bring rapid and large scale changes in the sector, including use of space technology to curb illegal mining, and use of mobile apps for real time information management.The Secretary (Coal), Shri Anil Swarup delineated the substantial changes in coal sector in the last one year. He pointed out how intensive consultations with stakeholders, streamlining industry linkages and process orientation facilitated the success of coal auctions, which has helped ensure availability of coal for domestic use, and in generating revenue for the exchequer.Mining Mazma is a mining exploration convention and trade show being organised by FIMI on September 24-26, 2015 in Bengaluru. The convention is being attended by over 400 delegates from participating organisations, besides other visitors. Ministry of Mines, Ministry of Coal, seven state governments, six foreign countries and over hundred private and public companies are taking part in the event.