(a) whether the diamond mines have been handed over to private companies under an agreement;
(b) if so, the details thereof, mine-wise and company-wise;
(c) whether the Government have got investigated the said agreement and its compliance through CBI;
(d) if so, the outcome thereof;
(e) whether there is any change in the team of investigating officers;
(f) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(g) the follow-up action taken thereon?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COAL AND MINES (SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD)
(a) and (b): Mining Leases are granted under Section 10(3) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 by the State Government concerned. However, proposals for prior approval of the Central Government for grant of mining lease for minerals specified under the First Schedule to the aforesaid Act originate from the respective State Governments and are processed and disposed of by the Central Government as per the provisions of Section 5(1) of the Act. Central Government has not conveyed its approval to any State Government for grant of mining lease for exploitation of diamond deposits in favour of a private company.
(c) to (g): Does not arise.