Union Coal and Mines Minister Pralhad Joshi on Friday urged Odisha government to expedite allocation process of mineral blocks in the State.
Joshi, who is on a three-day visit to the State, reviewed the progress made in auction of mineral blocks in the State with Steel and Mines Minister Prafulla Kumar Mallick and other officials of Ministry of Mines and Directorate of Mines, Odisha.
Speaking to mediapersons after the meeting, the Union Minister said, “Several reforms have been brought in mining and some basic policies have been modified. As many as 22 mines are operational in Odisha. We held discussion to bring more mines, not only iron ore but various other minerals, to auction. The Odisha government has assured to work proactively.”
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The Union Minister also met Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and requested him to facilitate necessary clearances to ensure smooth mining in the State.
“Met Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik ji in Bhubaneswar today. Sought early resolution of land-related issues of Mahanadi Coalfields Limited. Also requested expediting allotment process & facilitating necessary clearances to ensure smooth mining in Odisha. CM responded positively,” Joshi tweeted.
Speaking after the review meeting, State Mines Minister Prafulla Mallik said, “Centre proactively accepted whatever suggestions made by the Odisha government and brought reforms in the mine rules. As a result, we auctioned many mine blocks. At present, 22 mine blocks are operating and we will soon auction more blocks in the State.”