The Centre's forest panel has given its permission to state-owned miner NMDC to enter into Kalyandurg forest range in Ananthapur district, Andhra Pradesh for carrying out diamond exploration.
The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) -- the apex body in the Union Environment Ministry that approves or rejects proposals for diversion of forest land -- examined the proposal in the recent meeting.
"The FAC has approved the National Mineral Development Corporation's (NMDC) proposal subject to some conditions," a senior Environment Ministry official said.
The company has not sought for diversion of forest land but has requested for the permission to enter into the Kalyandurg forest range for undertaking exploration activities.
As per the proposal, the NMDC will drill 64 bore holes for diamond exploration in 153 hectare area in Ananthapur district.
It may be noted that mineral prospecting is exempted environmental clearance.
