Where does the non-coal mining sector stand in the liberalised regime?
The non-coal mining sector, I should say, stands on the threshold of exponential growth as the Centre has taken several initiatives. A concept of reconnaissance operations as a stage distinct from and prior to actual prospecting has been introduced. A reconnaissance permit (RP) holder will have preferential right for grant of prospecting licence (PL). Area restriction for RP, PL and mining lease (ML) will apply State-wise, instead of the country as a whole. Limestone has been deleted from the schedule. Hence only for 10 minerals (except fuel and atomic minerals) – asbestos, bauxite, chrome ore, copper, gold, iron ore, lead, manganese ore, precious stones and zinc – the Centre’s permission is required for grant of ML. State Governments have been delegated powers to grant mineral concessions even for areas that are not compact or contiguous, empowered to permit amalgamation of two ore more adjoining MLs and delegated powers to approve open cast mining plans in respect of 29 non-metallic/
