Union cabinet clears mine reforms

The Union cabinet on Wednesday approved reforms in mining that will double mineral production in the next 4-5 years.

The amendments do away with the distinction between captive and non-captive mines and allowing transfer of mining leases.

A comprehensive licence for exploration and production, clarity in illegal mining, national mineral index and joint auctions of bauxite and coal mines for the aluminium sector are some of the other proposals that have been approved by the cabinet.

These reforms will be implemented through an amendment to the Mines and Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 for which a bill will be placed in Parliament, sources said.