Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy Urges Stakeholders to tap the untapped potential of mining sector for accelerated growth of region

The second and final day of the 2nd North East Mining Ministers' Conclave was successfully held today at Mayfair Spring Valley Resort near Guwahati, bringing together key stakeholders from across the Northeastern region and the Union Ministry of Mines.

The day witnessed the presence of Union Minister of Mines G. Kishan Reddy, Assam Minister of Mines & Minerals Kaushik Rai, sectoral ministers from Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Sikkim, along with Secretary in the Union Ministry of Mines V.L. Kantha Rao. Senior officials from the North Eastern States and representatives from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) also took part in the deliberations.

The concluding session featured comprehensive discussions on the exchange of good practices and innovative strategies in mineral governance, review of the status of allotted mining blocks, identification of potential blocks for future allotment, streamlining of allotment procedures, assessment of minor and major mineral availability in the region, opportunities for responsible and sustainable mineral extraction, and critical issues such as environmental clearances, land acquisition, and compensation mechanisms.

Assam Minister of Mines & Minerals Kaushik Rai, speaking at the event, referred to the State's abundance in natural mineral resources and spoke about the initiatives taken to enhance their extraction in a responsible and sustainable manner. Under the abled guidance of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, the State shall be able to generate significant revenue as well as employment opportunities in the mining sector, the minister added. The Government of Assam has ensured that mining licenses are granted through a clean and transparent auction process, he added. He expressed gratitude towards the Union government for its continued guidance and support in capacity enhancement and production in the State's mining sector.

Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, in his address, emphasized the Centre’s commitment to the economic development of the Northeastern States. He spoke about the positive changes a vibrant mining industry can bring about in a State's economy while urging for a clear roadmap and vision for the mining sector in the region. He requested the State officials and other stakeholders to imbibe a result-oriented work ethic so that the maximum potential of the mining sector can be explored.