"The state government has time and again suggested

imposition of Mineral Resource Rent Tax at the rate of 50 per cent of the surplus rent earned by mining lessees in respect of iron ore. However, this has not been accepted by the central government," Acharya said. A number of lessees continue to enjoy the benefits of deemed extension provision under the relevant law, whereas the state government is deprived of a substantial amount of revenue, Acharya said. The minister said while the state was attempting to impose tax on mines owners, it all along chose not to impose any tax burden on the people. "We have not imposed any tax on the people during the last 12 years," he said, adding the state instead increased the target of tax and non-tax revenue collection.