Tomar, Sangma discuss mining in NE

Union Minister for Steel and Mines Narendra Singh Tomar on Wednesday met Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul <g data-gr-id="14">Sangama</g> in Shillong and discussed <g data-gr-id="13">development</g> of the state and other North-East areas in the sector.

Citing details of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act 2015, Tomar said how it would bring transparency and help smoothen business. 

Tomar said although the Centre is aware of the effect of the ban on coal mining imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Meghalaya, the green court’s ruling has to be accepted. Environmental degradation is an area of concern and the need to protect it is a priority for the government. However, he added that the government can put forward its grievances before the tribunal. Sangma said his government was hopeful that the Centre would help usher in development in the <g data-gr-id="15">nines</g> sector.