Easier nod for mining projects proposed

The government is planning to introduce a single-window clearance mechanism for mining projects. At present, mining projects require a variety of clearances from the state and the Centre.

Officials in the ministry of coal, mines and minerals estimate that about 30 mining projects are awaiting clearance. The decision to work towards a single-window was taken at a meeting presided over by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh who holds the charge for ministry of coal and mines.

It was also decided to set up an expert committee to recommend measures for developing the coal sector. Officials said the need for an expert committee was felt due to the supply crisis being faced in the coal sector.

Besides the expert committe, a group of ministers would also be constituted to monitor the coal demand and supply situation and build consensus on policy issues in the sector.

The National Democractic Alliance government had made moves towards privatisation of coal-mining, but it could not be given legal clearance.

The new government, which found itself in the midst of a coal supply crisis, may not be able to go ahead with the same due to pressures from the Left.

Officials said there were also moves towards mechanisation of underground mines, which experts feel can enhance productivity.

On the issue of allocation of mining blocks for captive utilisation, officials said that only 49 blocks have been allocated out of 147 blocks identified so far. "Only about three to four blocks have reached the production stage," said an official.