Mines Min seeks states' help to evolve fair allocation system

Steel and Mines Minister Narendra Singh Tomar has written to states seeking their co-operation for evolving a transparent system of allocating mines.

The minister is slated to meet Chief Ministers of various mineral-rich states to take their views on bringing amendments to the more than half-a-century old mining law, an official statement said. Tomar is likely to meet Chief Ministers of Goa and Rajastan tomorrow and is slated to meet Karnataka Chief Minister on Friday, it said.

Expressing concern over negative public perception with regard to mining, Tomar has 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".

"The letter also enunciates the need to safeguard environmental concerns and clearly spells out that 'intergeneration equity' should not be compromised in the process of easing the mining sector," the statement said.

Priorities laid out include re-invigorating of the mining sector, improving investment scenario and reaping benefits of enhanced technology and best practices, it added. Tomar has written to the Chief Ministers soliciting their views on amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act 1957 and relevant rules to find "expeditious and acceptable solutions" to the mining issues confronting the country.