Lok Sabha passes bill to amend MMDR Act
Lok Sabha has passed a bill to amend the Mines and Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, with Union minister Pralhad Joshi saying the changes will help create employment opportunities and allow private sector with enhanced technology in mining activities.
“The reform in the mining sector would generate 55 lakh direct and indirect employment. To enhance mining activity, we will allow private sector with enhanced technology in mineral exploration,” Joshi said.
The Lower House passed the Mines and Minerals Development (Amendment) Bill, 2021.
According to the minister, India produces 95 minerals and has same potential like South Africa and Australia but still import minerals like gold and coal.
“The reform in the mining sector would generate 55 lakh direct and indirect employment. To enhance mining activity, we will allow private sector with enhanced technology in mineral exploration,” the minister said.
According to the minister, the mining sector currently contributes 1.75 per cent to the country’s GDP and through the reforms proposed in the bill the contribution will rise to 2.5 per cent and strengthen the economy.
