How is the Centre Strengthening Mining Infrastructure in North East States?

Guwahati, June 28 (NationPress) Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy reiterated the Central Government's unwavering support for the mineral and coal-abundant North Eastern states during a Mining Ministers’ Conclave held on Saturday.

Speaking to attendees on the second day of the event, the Minister emphasized the Centre’s dedication to enhancing mining infrastructure, expediting project approvals, and fostering sustainable mining practices throughout the region.

He remarked that advancing the North East is pivotal to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, with the eight states—Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim—being justly acknowledged as Ashta Lakshmi.

Reddy asserted that improved Centre-State collaboration is essential for creating jobs, drawing in investments, and promoting inclusive economic growth through the development of the mineral and coal sectors.

During the conclave, delegates from all eight northeastern states shared their strategic plans for enhancing the mining and coal industries. Ministers from Meghalaya, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim, alongside the Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, detailed their state-specific strategies, accomplishments, and future objectives. They discussed advancements in block auctions, exploration of critical minerals, revival of coal mines, development of minor minerals, and the adoption of sustainable mining practices.

The discussions showcased a collective commitment to harmonizing environmental protections with economic advancement. States also advocated for increased central assistance to tackle regional challenges and unlock their complete resource potential.

During the conclave, Sanjay Lohiya, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines, underscored the necessity of significantly enhancing exploration initiatives nationwide. He urged the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL), and State Governments to collaborate closely and implement modern, targeted, and timely exploration strategies, particularly for critical and strategic minerals.

He added that the Government of India has provided unparalleled policy and financial backing to amplify exploration activities, emphasizing that it is now time to convert that momentum into tangible actions.

On the sidelines of the conclave, Reddy inaugurated the new regional office of the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) in Guwahati, attended by Assam's Minister for Mines Kaushik Rai and senior officials.

The newly established IBM office is anticipated to play a vital role in enhancing regulatory oversight, providing technical support, and offering facilitation services for the mining sector in the North East.

The two-day conclave served as a crucial platform for aligning regional mining strategies with the national goals of sustainable development, energy security, and economic transformation.