Question : Procurement of Minerals

(a) whether the Government takes cognizance of the fact that conflict minerals is an issue where India, especially Naxalite region, is affected, if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;
(b) whether the Government proposes to identify certain areas as conflict zones and minerals as conflict minerals, if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor, State/UT-wise;
(c) whether the Government plans to establish a policy mechanism to ensure responsible mining and procurement of minerals from the conflict zones in the country; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?

(a) to (d): Mining of minerals is regulated by the provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act 1957) and the rules made thereunder. Section 23C of the MMDR Act, 1957 empowers state governments to frame rules for preventing illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals. As such, prevention of illegal mining comes under the administrative and legislative jurisdiction of the state governments. No state government has reported any specific incident of loss of procurement of Minerals from any region of the country disturbed by naxalite activities.

The Seventh Report of Second Administrative Reforms Commission had recommended setting up of special anti-extortion and anti-money laundering cell by State Police/State Government. The State Governments have been accordingly advised to establish such cells to prevent any nexus between illegal mining/forest contractors, transporters and extremists.

To foster a responsible mining in a fair and transparent manner across India, MMDR Act, 1957 has been amended w.e.f. 12.1.2015. New mining concessions are to be accorded through auction. Specified mineralization under the Minerals (Evidence of Minerals Contents) Rules, 2015 sets the criteria for selection of blocks in different regions. Further, the penal provisions associated with illegal mining have been strengthened to serve as deterrent for any illegal encroachment of mining areas.