Strict instructions from CM Vishnudev Sai on timely and quality implementation of mining projects in Chhattisgarh. Major approval for drones and IT technology to stop illegal mining, monitoring of DMF works and rail corridor projects.
Chhattisgarh is recognized among those states of the country where huge development potential is hidden beneath the ground. From coal, iron ore to rare earth minerals—the state’s mineral wealth not only forms the backbone of the economy but also determines the direction of industrial development. In such a situation, timely and quality completion of mining projects has become the priority of the government. In this series, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai has given a clear message that transparency, technology and accountability should be ensured in every work related to mining.
Strictness on quality and timelines in mining projects
The 21st meeting of Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Fund Advisory Committee was organized at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai. During the meeting, the Chief Minister said that Chhattisgarh is a state rich in mineral resources and it is necessary for quality and timely implementation of all the mining projects going on here.
He clarified that mining is not only a source of revenue, but it also affects roads, railways, employment and social development in the areas related to it. Therefore, delay in projects or compromise on quality will not be acceptable.
Technology will control illegal mining
Taking a strict stance on illegal mining and illegal transportation of minerals, the Chief Minister said that the monitoring of the special task force formed to control it should be further strengthened. For this, special emphasis was laid on the use of IT systems and drone technology.
The Chief Minister believes that through modern technology, continuous and accurate monitoring of illegal activities is possible, which will prevent revenue loss as well as damage to the environment.
Mineral 2.0 portal and monitoring of DMF works
In the meeting, the progress of expenditure and works being done through Mineral 2.0 portal under PMKKKY (Pradhan Mantri Mineral Mineral Welfare Scheme) was reviewed. The Chief Minister directed to establish a state level Central Program Management Unit (CPMU) to ensure quality and timely completion of works related to District Mineral Trust (DMF).
The objective of this arrangement is to ensure effective monitoring and transparent implementation of the development work done from DMF.
Rail and mining infrastructure gets major approval
In the meeting, financial approval was given to many important projects related to mining and transportation. Mainly these:
- Rs 328 crore for Chirmiri-Nagpur railway line
- Rs 60.10 crore for 1 East Corridor and 3 East-West Corridor under Chhattisgarh Railway Corridor.
- Rs 24.10 crore as quasi equity
These projects are expected to accelerate mineral transportation as well as boost industrial development.
Support to CMDC and joint ventures also
In the meeting, approval of Rs 112.70 crore was given to Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Corporation Limited (CMDC) for the development of various projects under 49 percent stake in the joint venture of NMDC-CMDC Company Limited (NCL). Apart from this, an additional amount of Rs 10 crore was also sanctioned to CMDC for departmental works.
Approval of more than Rs 138 crore for IT, drone and survey works
Under the Directorate of Geology and Mining, a total of Rs 138.17 crore was approved by the committee for auction of mineral blocks, payment for Mineral Online 2.0, geological survey, prospecting, execution of technical works and use of IT and drone technology for monitoring illegal transportation.
The decisions of the last meeting were also reviewed
In the meeting, information about the decisions taken in the 20th meeting of the Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Fund Advisory Committee and the status of their implementation was also shared, so that it can be ensured that the previously approved projects are moving in the right direction.