State frames mining norms based on NGT order

SHILLONG: The state government has framed the guidelines on coal mining so that mining activities can be taken up in line with the directions of the NGT with an aim to ensure protection of forests, water resources, environment and health and safety of workers.
This was one of the highlights of the Republic Day speech of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma in Tura on Saturday.
“In order to minimise or mitigate the adverse impact during and after mining on the environment, health and socio-economics of people in mining districts, a District Mineral Foundation (DMF) and its rules were notified with an objective to plan and allocate funds towards the implementation of various developmental and welfare projects or programmes in mining affected areas,” the chief minister said.
The government continues to sponsor students in Earth Science by granting scholarship and others to create interest in pursuing career related to Geology and Mining in the mineral-rich Meghalaya, he said, adding that it also caters to the request of universities, colleges and scholars from other states during the geological field tours to Meghalaya.
He asserted that serious efforts have been made on the regulation of mining in the state by introducing scientific approach to protect ecology, environment and the interest of the people in accordance with the central mines and mining regulations, taking into account the special features of the state in respect of the land tenure system and the local traditional practice of the people. To this effect, the state government had sought exemption from the operations of Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1973, and the Coal Bearing Areas (Acquisition and Development) Act, 1957, under Para 12 A (b) of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
Assault incident
The chief minister admitted that the incident of assault of social activists Agnes Kharshiing and Amita Sangma by miscreants at Tuber Sohshrieh, East Jaintia Hills, on November 8 last year had a huge impact on law and order in the state. “Police are working all out to improve the situation by acting appropriately for ensuring safety and security of both victims and speedy investigation of the case,” he said.