Question : REVIVAL OF CLOSED MINES

(a) whether the Government is aware that there is a large scale loss of employment in the mining sector due to closure of a large number of mines in various parts of the country particularly in Rajasthan and Jammu & Kashmir;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor, State-wise;

(c) whether the Government has any scheme to restart mining operations in the said mines in the country including Rajasthan and Jammu & Kashmir;

(d) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and

(e) the steps being taken by the Government to ameliorate the conditions of the distressed mining workers?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR MINES AND STEEL (SHRI VISHNU DEO SAI)

(a)& (b): The State-wise details including Rajasthan and Jammu & Kashmir of average daily employment in mines, as reported by mines management, during the period 2011 to 2013 is given at Annexure. During this period, the number of average daily employment at all India level in coal as well as oil & gas mines has declined, and increased in metalliferousmines.

(c): There is no scheme for revival of closed mines.

(d): Does not arise in view of (c) above.

(e): Matters relating to safety, health and welfare of persons employed in mines are covered under the provisions of Mines Act, 1952 and the rules and regulations made thereunder. Officers of Directorate General of Mines Safety make periodic inspections of mines and suitable measures such as notices, prohibitory orders are issued to ensure compliance of statutory provisions to ensure safety, health and welfare of workers.