Is the Cabinet Approving a Rs 5,940 Crore Revised Jharia Master Plan?
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Synopsis
The Cabinet's approval of the revised Jharia Master Plan marks a pivotal step towards resolving long-standing issues in the Jharia Coalfield. This comprehensive initiative not only aims to extinguish underground fires but also focuses on sustainable livelihoods and community rehabilitation, promising a new dawn for affected families in Jharkhand.
Key Takeaways
- The Cabinet has approved a budget of Rs 5,940.47 crore for the Jharia Master Plan.
- Focus on addressing underground fires and land subsidence.
- Support for rehabilitation of affected families with financial grants and credit access.
- Infrastructure development is a key component of the resettlement strategy.
- Skill development programs will enhance economic independence for families.
New Delhi, June 25 (NationPress) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has recently approved the revised Jharia Master Plan with a budget of Rs 5,940.47 crore. This initiative is designed to tackle critical issues such as underground fires, land subsidence, and the resettlement of families affected by these challenges in the Jharia Coalfield.
The plan adopts a phase-wise strategy, prioritizing the management of fire hazards and land subsidence, along with the rehabilitation of vulnerable communities as highlighted in the statement following the CCEA meeting.
The revised Jharia Master Plan (JMP) places a significant focus on creating sustainable livelihood options for families being relocated. Skill development programs are set to be implemented, and new income-generating opportunities will be established to promote economic independence among those being rehabilitated.
Additionally, the plan proposes a livelihood grant of Rs 1 lakh and access to credit support of up to Rs 3 lakh for both Legal Title Holder and Non-Legal Title Holder families, as detailed in the official announcement.
Moreover, essential infrastructure and amenities—including roads, electricity, water supply, sewerage, schools, hospitals, skill development centers, community halls, and other communal facilities—are planned for development at the resettlement sites. These initiatives will be executed in accordance with the recommendations from the Committee for Implementation of the Revised Jharia Master Plan, ensuring a comprehensive and compassionate rehabilitation process.
As part of the support for livelihoods, a dedicated Jharia Alternative Livelihoods Rehabilitation Fund will be created to facilitate livelihood-related projects. Skill development programs will also be conducted in collaboration with Multi Skill Development Institutes in the area, as mentioned in the statement.
The Jharia coalfield, located in Jharkhand, India, is grappling with severe challenges stemming from long-standing underground coal fires, land subsidence, and related environmental and health issues. These complications are the result of historical mining activities and the intrinsic challenges of extracting coal in the region.
The underground mining operations, combined with the persistent fires, result in land subsidence, causing the surface to collapse or sink. This phenomenon poses a significant threat to both residents and infrastructure.
Point of View
The approval of the Jharia Master Plan emphasizes the government's commitment to addressing environmental and social challenges in coal mining areas. This initiative is critical not only for the rehabilitation of affected families but also for ensuring sustainable development in Jharkhand. The plan reflects an understanding of the complexities involved and aims for a holistic approach to community upliftment.
NationPress
25/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the revised Jharia Master Plan?
The revised Jharia Master Plan aims to tackle issues related to underground coal fires, land subsidence, and to rehabilitate families affected in the Jharia Coalfield.
What financial support will be provided to affected families?
Affected families will receive a livelihood grant of Rs 1 lakh and access to credit support of up to Rs 3 lakh.
What infrastructure developments are planned in the Jharia Master Plan?
The plan includes development of essential amenities such as roads, electricity, water supply, schools, hospitals, and community facilities at resettlement sites.
How will skill development be implemented under the plan?
Skill development initiatives will be carried out in collaboration with Multi Skill Development Institutes to ensure economic self-reliance for resettled families.
What are the main challenges faced in the Jharia Coalfield?
The Jharia Coalfield faces severe challenges due to underground coal fires, land subsidence, and associated environmental and health hazards.
