Hyderabad: On Thursday, a meeting about coal and mines discussed closing mines and exploring minerals. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy led the meeting, where officials shared updates on these topics. Participants suggested future actions, and Kishan Reddy promised to address concerns about mining issues.
The attendees praised the government’s approach to mine closures. They also brought up the re-employment of people who lost jobs due to land given for mining. Kishan Reddy assured that they would tackle this issue.
Kishan Reddy emphasized his government’s commitment to boosting production, supporting workers, and protecting the environment. He mentioned that the government offers an extra Rs. 1 crore insurance to employees along with existing coverage. Safety measures are being enforced to reduce accidents.
The meeting saw participation from Minister of State for Coal Mines Satish Chandra Dubey, committee MPs, Department of Mines Secretary VL Kantarao, senior officials, Coal India Chairman PM Prasad, Singareni CMD Balaram Nayak, and other public sector units.
Coal India and Singareni signed agreements with the Heartfulness Center at Kanha Shanti Vanam. Singareni agreed to build a green wall in Ramagundam, while Coal India plans to enhance forest areas affected by mining.
Addressing the media, Kishan Reddy noted that coal mining has left many regions neglected post-extraction. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently directed the scientific closure of 143 mines, focusing on environmental care. An action plan is underway to benefit locals and farmers. This year, work began on 10 mines, and 7-8 have been closed. Efforts will continue to close the remaining 130 mines and rehabilitate the land for community use.
Inspired by Heartfulness efforts in Shadnagar to increase greenery, they aim to enhance vegetation for societal gain. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Heartfulness supports this initiative.
