Question : CONSTITUTIONAL PROTECTION TO WEAKER SECTIONS



(a) whether Article 46 of the Constitution directs the State to promote with special care the economic interests of the weaker sections of the people, particularly of the SCs and STs so as to protect them from social injustice and exploitation;

(b) if so, the steps being taken to give effect to this Constitution directive in the field of Coal and Mining sector through State sponsored schemes/programmes such as leasing of coal and other minerals/metals, quarrying , award of agency/licence/permit for transportation etc.; and

(c) if not, the reasons therefore?

Answer given by the minister

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR COAL & MINES (SHRI RAVI SHANKAR PRASAD)

(a) to (c): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.


Statement referred to in reply to parts (a) to (c) of the Lok Sabha Starred Question No.287 for answer on 10.12.2001


(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) & (c): The existing provisions in Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development ) Act, 1957 do not provide for reservations in leases etc. for weaker sections of society including SCs and STs as a means of promotion of their economic development.