Goa: GMPF asks BJP to expedite process to resume mining

An organisation of mining dependents in Goa has asked BJP leaders to expedite the process of amending laws so that the sector can resume in the coastal state.

The Goa Mining People's Front has been demanding that the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Bill, 1957 be amended so that mining can resume in Goa.

The sector had come to a standstill in March this year after the Supreme Court quashed 88 mining leases and banned the extraction of fresh iron ore.

The GMPF Friday met Goa Assembly Speaker Pramod Sawant and asked the ruling party to ensure that the amendment is passed quickly in Parliament.

GMPF president Puti Gaonkar told PTI that a minor amendment to the MMDR Act would help mining leases in Goa get an extension till 2037.

Sawant reportedly assured the delegation that his party would do its best to ensure mining resumes in the state.