(a) whether the Government proposes to give approval for identifying mineral rich areas
in various States and to develop them as Special Mining Zones (SMZs);
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether gross domestic production is likely to increase as a result of speedy
allotment of SMZs for potential ancillary industries in iron and power sectors; and
(d) if so, the steps proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR MINES (SHRI DINSHA PATEL)
(a) to (d): No, Madam. However, the draft Mines and Minerals (Development and
Regulation) Bill, 2011 provides for the State Government to identify mineral
bearing areas and grant prospecting and mining lease through competitive bidding
as a measure to streamline and make the process of grant of concessions more
transparent. This proposal is likely to increase investments in the mining sector.