Mineral conclave to focus on exploration policy, raw material scenario

The union mines ministry in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (Fimi) and Chhattisgarh's mineral resource department is hosting a national conclave on 'Mines and Minerals' on July 4-5 in Raipur.

The conclave would deliberate on the roadmap for mining sector, national mineral exploration policy, mineral policy regulation, atomic mineral policy, offshore mineral policy and raw material policy for the steel industry.

The country's multi-billion dollar mining industry is facing tough challenges amid the weak global commodity market and falling prices.

Against this backdrop, the government of India has taken some key initiatives like passage of Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Amendment Act-2105, initiation of auctions of mineral blocks, encouraging miners to increase production which would generate more employment in the country and in turn earn revenue for the miners and the state government.

The union government has also notified the rules for implementation of the provisions of this Act-Minerals (Evidence of Mineral Contents) Rules 2015, Mineral (Auction) Rules 2015, Mineral (Non-exclusive reconnaissance permits) Rules 2015, National Mineral Exploration Trust Rules 2015, Mineral Concession Rules 2016 and Mineral Conservation and Development (Amendment) Rules, 2015.

After the enactment of MMDR, 43 mineral blocks have been put to auctions. Another 100 mineral blocks are set to be auctioned shortly.

The national mineral conclave is expected to provide an effective platform to showcase the recent policy initiatives by the government of India and enable intensive discussions on the issues, challenges and opportunities in the mining sector to realise the optimum potential for the sustainable development of the country.