Goa mining policy (Major minerals) 2012 - Draft policy document by Directorate of Mines & Geology, Government of Goa

This document is a draft of Goa’s mining policy for 2012 by the Directorate of Mines & Geology, Government of Goa. It begins with a preamble, which gives a brief overview of the significance of mining in the union territory. In the recent times the high demand of iron ore coupled with corrupt regulatory regime of the former government had resulted in the reckless exploitation of the resource. Further there has been massive export of the unaccounted ore from unidentified sources.

Given the deplorable condition of the mineral industry the new government is expected to promote a sustainable extraction regime to facilitate systematic, scientific and planned utilization of mineral resources and to streamline mineral based development of the State. This is to be done keeping in view, protection of environment, health and safety of the people in and around the mining areas.

The document covers the following aspects of the policy:

• Objectives of the mining policy for major minerals

• Current policies, royalties and taxes on iron ore and their effects

• History and current scenario of Goa’s mining

• Distinction between Goa and other states as far as importance and relevance of mining and its associated laws are concerned

• The measures that promote sustainable mining in the state and ensure a transparent regulatory regime

• Administrative aspects related to the deal with industry

• Statutory acts, rules and regulations that are applicable on the industry

• The matters related to pollution caused by mining

• Dump handling policy for an effective regulation of dump and stock yards

• Highlights of the new policy

• Capping and trading

• Safety concerns of workers and rehabilitation of people affected by land acquisition, displacement and hazards of mining such as subsidence and environment pollution.

• Stakeholder participation

• Welfare and social responsibilities to be ensured by various agencies, organisation, institutions, industries engaged in the sector

• Government to constitute Goa Minerals Development Fund to develop the sector

• Promote tourism to create awareness and educate masses and also ensure employment opportunities

• Committee that monitors and reviews the implementation of the state mining policy periodically

• Power of the state government in mining

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