IMG to discuss fast-tracking mine clearances

An inter-ministerial group (IMG) will hold its first meeting next week to expedite post-auction clearances for six mines bearing minerals such as gold, iron ore and limestone.
The first meeting of the Post-Auction Mining Clearances and Approvals Facilitator, headed by the Union Mines Secretary, will meet on May 10 over expediting clearances and approvals of auctioned mines in the states of Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Jharkhand.
As per an official circular sent to Principal Secretaries of Mining Department in the three states, they have been asked to list the required clearances and approvals. The states have also been asked to depute a senior official for the meeting.

The IMG has been formed to fast-track the post-auction clearances and approvals of mineral blocks as part of efforts to enhance ease of doing business.
"Out of the 43 mines put for auction, only six could get through. The industry, due to various other reasons, did not participate (for other mines). But the government, on its part, wants to show that it will do whatever it can to expedite the process," a senior official said.
States had identified 43 mines bearing minerals such as iron ore, bauxite, gold and limestone for auction in the first phase. So far, only six mines have been auctioned, which will earn revenues, including royalties, of Rs 18,146 crore.

Last month at the high-level Coordination-cum-Empowered Committee meeting, Union Mines Secretary Balvinder Kumar had expressed his "dissatisfaction" on the slow pace with only six blocks having been auctioned by three states.
He had directed the states to put in "greater effort" on their part to ensure the success of the auctions.