How Will the DMF Fund Benefit Mining-Affected Communities?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Madhya Pradesh's Chief Minister Mohan Yadav reveals plans for the DMF funds to empower communities affected by mining. With a focus on sustainable development, key projects will improve education, health, and infrastructure for vulnerable populations.
Key Takeaways
- DMF funds will focus on long-term projects.
- Over Rs 1,680 crore available for community welfare.
- Projects include education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
- Seventy percent of funds for high-priority sectors.
- Benefiting districts span across Madhya Pradesh.
Bhopal, May 7 (NationPress) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced on Wednesday that the funds amassed through the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) will be directed towards the welfare of those impacted, specifically in areas affected by mining.
He emphasized that only sustainable, impactful projects should be funded by DMF resources, including the construction of school facilities, hospitals, community centers, dispensaries, veterinary clinics, sports fields, and essential infrastructure in PVTG (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups) communities.
Projects of a temporary nature or related to maintenance should instead be financed through departmental budgets, he noted.
Additionally, the Chief Minister approved development initiatives worth Rs 502 crore in mining-impacted districts.
“This funding will foster various development and enhancement projects in these areas. The districts receiving approval include Dindori, Shahdol, Anuppur, Barwani, Damoh, Chhindwara, Seoni, Alirajpur, Shivpuri, Sagar, Rewa, and Betul,” stated the Chief Minister.
Principal Secretary (Mining) Umakant Umrao shared that Rs 1,681 crore is currently available under DMF, with over Rs 1,008.6 crore designated for high-priority sectors, including education, drinking water, environmental conservation, healthcare, sanitation, skill development, and welfare for the elderly, differently-abled individuals, and women and children.
The remaining Rs 672.4 crore may be allocated to other priority areas, such as irrigation, infrastructure, energy, and watershed development, he added.
He further explained that according to new guidelines, up to 70 percent of the DMF fund will be invested in high-priority sectors, including housing, agriculture, and animal husbandry, while 30 percent is earmarked for other essential sectors, including initiatives to enhance environmental quality in mining regions.
Point of View
The decision to allocate DMF funds towards sustainable development in mining-affected regions demonstrates a commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable communities. This approach not only prioritizes long-term benefits but also aligns with national goals of welfare and environmental protection.
NationPress
23/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the District Mineral Foundation (DMF)?
The District Mineral Foundation (DMF) is a fund established to address the welfare of communities affected by mining activities, ensuring the allocation of funds for sustainable development projects.
How much funding is available under the DMF?
Currently, Rs 1,681 crore is available under the DMF, with a significant portion allocated for high-priority sectors such as education and healthcare.
What types of projects will be funded?
The DMF funds will support projects like school construction, healthcare facilities, community centers, and infrastructure improvements in vulnerable areas.
How will the funds be distributed?
Seventy percent of the DMF funds will be used for high-priority sectors, while thirty percent will focus on other essential areas like irrigation and environmental quality.
Which districts will benefit from the funding?
The approved districts include Dindori, Shahdol, Anuppur, Barwani, Damoh, Chhindwara, Seoni, Alirajpur, Shivpuri, Sagar, Rewa, and Betul.
