Our aim is double contribution of mining sector to GDP: B K Handique

Our aim is double contribution of mining sector to GDP: B K Handique

Addressing the first meeting of the reconstituted Consultative Committee attached to Ministry of Mines on the theme- Paradigm shift in role of Government from Control to Regulation in mining sector, B K Handique, Minister of Mines and Minister of Development of North Eastern Region said that growth of the mining and metal sector is crucial to the continued sustainable economic development of the country.
He said “we must aim at doubling the contribution of the sector to the Gross Domestic”. Handique said that the basic approach of the National Mineral Policy of 2008 is to strengthen the existing systems, and develop new systems for regulating the sector for increasing its contribution to the national economy, and at the same time integrate the aspirations of the local people for sustainable mining. Handique said that in this approach, the mining legislation has to deal with emerging issues arising out of new socio-economic paradigm, which makes it necessary to address issue of reclamation & restoration of ecology, relief & rehabilitation, and most importantly, Sustainable Development Framework for the Indian mining sector.

During the meeting, Members wanted that in the proposed Act, the views of the state governments should be prevailed and the rights of the tribal and local peoples should be kept while mining. The Minister welcomed the Members’ views and thanked for their valuable suggestions.

The Members of Parliament present include:- Deoraj Singh Patel, Ramen Deka, Sohan Potai, Amarnath Pradhan, Biren Singh Engti, (Lok Sabha), Matilal Sarkar, Rudra Narayan Pany (Rajya Sabha). The Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Santha Sheela Nair, senior officers of the Ministry and officers of the public sector undertakings attached with the Ministry were also present in the meeting.
Courtesy: Ministry of Mines