Question : MMDR ACT

(a) whether the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) has adequate provisions to address the concerns of local people including tribals;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) if not, the reasons for not bringing any law in this regard along with the reaction of the Government thereto?

THE MINISTER OF MINES (SHRI DINSHA PATEL)

(a) to (b): Rule 27(1)(p) of the Mineral Concession Rules, 1960 framed under Section 13 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 has a provision for giving preference in matters of employment to tribals and persons displaced due to mining operations. Rule 27 (1) (p) of MCR, 1960 is as follows:

“27. Conditions :- (1) Every mining lease shall be subject to the following conditions :-

(p) the lessee shall, in the matter of employment, give preference to the tribals and to the persons who become displaced because of the taking up of mining operations;”

(c): Does not arise in view of (a) and (b) above.