(a) the procedure for granting mineral concessions in respect of various minerals;
(b) the basis on which prior permission for such concessions is granted;
(c) whether any reports of irregularities in this regard have been received;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the action taken/ to be taken thereon?
MINISTER OF THE STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF MINES (SHRI DINSHA PATEL)
(a) and (b): Mineral concession proposals recommended by the State Governments are examined by the Ministry of Mines in the light of extant provisions of Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act (MMDR Act), 1957, Mineral Concession Rules, 1960 and, Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 1988 and wherever necessary, in consultation with the State Government and specialized agencies viz. Geological Survey of India, Indian Bureau of Mines, Department of Atomic Energy prior approval of the Central Government is conveyed with the approval of the competent authority.
(c) to (e): As per the information available with the Ministry, no instance of irregularity has come to notice. However, apart from redressal in High Court, Section 30 of the MMDR Act, 1957, provides that a person aggrieved with any order of State Government or any other Authority authorized under the Act may approach the Central Government for revision of such orders.