Question : Accidents in Mines

(a)the salient features of National Minerals policy regarding mine safety and safeguards for the labourers engaged in mining works;
(b)whether the aforesaid policy overlooks mining safety related activities along with the safety of mining labourers;
(c)if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;
(d)the number of mine accidents which took place in the country during the last three years and the number of mine workers killed therein, State/UT-wise; and
(e)the number of mine workers out of the above who have not been provided any compensation till date?

MINISTER OF STATE (IC) FOR LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT
(SHRI SANTOSH KUMAR GANGWAR)

(a) to (c): Ministry of Mines has policy namely National Mineral Policy, 2008. Para 7.13 of the National Mineral Policy, 2008 on ‘Mines Safety’ states that

Mine Safety Mining operations are hazardous in nature. Accidents happen and often result in the loss of life or limb of persons engaged in it. Efforts must be directed towards the development and adoption of mining methods which would increase the safety of workers and reduce the accidents. Towards this end, participation and cooperation of mine workers shall be secured. Steps will also be taken to minimise the adverse impact of mining on the health of workers and the surrounding population.

(d) & (e): As per information provided by Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) under Ministry of Labour and Employment, the details of the number of mine accidents which took place in the country during the last three years and the number of mine workers killed therein, State/UT-wise are attached in Annexure. The compensation is given by the respective mining companies or owners covered under the Employees’ Compensation Act, 1923.
* *******