(a) Whether the Government proposes to constitute a separate body/forum for better coordination between the Union Government and the State Government to resolve various mines and mineral related issues;
(b) If so, the details thereof and the time by which such body/forum likely to be set up;
(c) If not, the reasons therefor and the manner in which such disputes are resolved; and
(d) The remedial measures taken/being taken up by the Government to resolve issues plaguing the mining sector?
THE MINISTER OF MINES AND MINISTER OF DEVELOPMENT OF NORTH EASTERN REGION
(a): The Ministry of Mines has, on 04-03-2009, constituted a Central Coordination-
cum-Empowered Committee(CEC) under the chairmanship of Secretary(Mines) to monitor and
minimize delays at various levels in grant of approvals for mineral concession applications.
The CEC comprises of representatives of the Ministry of Mines, Ministry of Environment and
Forests(separate representations), Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Home Affrairs, Ministry
of Steel, Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Geological Survey of India and Indian Bureau
of Mines. Representatives of the State Government Departments dealing with Mining and Geology
in mineral-rich States are also invited in the meetings of the Committee.
(b): The CEC has held meetings on 24-07-2009 and 22-12-2009 and reviewed various important
aspects relating to mineral concessions.
(c): Does not arise.
(d): The Ministry of Mines has published the National Mineral Policy 2008. This comprehensive
policy addresses various issues of mining sector. There is also a mechanism of Mineral Advisory
Council in the Central Government. Members of the Council are usually from various bodies
associated with mines, minerals and metals sectors.