(a) whether the Union Government propose to provide any assistance to J&K State for development and protection of country`s only sapphire source in Doda;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor?
(a) whether the Union Government propose to provide any assistance to J&K State for development and protection of country`s only sapphire source in Doda;
(b) if so, the details thereof; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor?
THE MINISTER OF YOUTH AFFAIRS, SPORTS AND MINES ( SHRI SUKHDEV SINGH DHINDSA)
(a) to (c): Mineral Concessions are granted by the respective
State Governments in their territorial jurisdictions as per the
provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation)
Act, 1957 and Rules framed thereunder. As the mineral rights
are vested in the State Governments and the State Governments
earn revenue from the royalties on minerals, the State
Government is responsible for development and protection of
minerals including sapphire. Central Government does not
provide any assistance to any State Government for development
and protection of any mineral in particular.