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Speakers at the discussion in Ranchi on Friday. (Hardeep Singh)
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Ranchi, Sept. 7: The interests of mineral-rich Jharkhand should not be overlooked while allotting coal blocks, urged speakers at a discussion organised by Management Studies and Research Centre the state chapter of the Institution of Engineers (India) here today.
Participants comprising mining experts, representatives of industry, social workers and advocates deliberated on the recent controversy over allotment of coal blocks vis-à-vis the interest of the people of Jharkhand. The event was titled Independent Discussion on Coal Block Cancellation.
Allotments have been made over several years and many firms have benefited. But if the allotments are cancelled now, the developing industry will face a jolt and the credibility of a democratic government would be hit, they felt.
“Coal is extracted from the state but those living in mineral-rich areas experience environmental degradation and displacement,” said Deepak Prakash, former chairman of Jharkhand State Mineral Development Corporation.
“Many were allotted coal blocks but sat on it for years. The delay needs to be probed. Didn’t they have the capacity to utilise it or were they waiting to earn when the prices went up?” he asked.
Displacement has been a major problem but relief and rehabilitation policy had remained in a draft stage, said advocate Chandra Prakash.
Royalty on coal should be based on its value and not weight, he opined.
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