Maharashtra Legislative Council Approves Gadchiroli District Mining Authority Bill for Mineral Development

The Maharashtra Legislative Council recently approved a bill to oversee and expedite the development of mineral-rich areas in Gadchiroli district. This legislation, known as the Gadchiroli District Mining Authority Bill, targets both major and specified minor minerals. It replaces the previous Gadchiroli District Mining Authority 2025.

The newly established authority will be led by the chief minister, who will serve as its chairperson. A minister appointed by the chief minister will act as co-chairperson, while another will serve as deputy chairperson. Additionally, two ministers nominated by the chief minister will be ex-officio members.

Authority Composition and Objectives

Ex-officio members of this authority include the chief secretary and secretaries from various departments such as industries, labour, energy, finance, environment and climate change, revenue, and forests. The Director General of the Directorate of Geology and Mining and the Gadchiroli Collector are also included as ex-officio members.

The Managing Director of the Maharashtra State Mining Corporation Ltd will function as the member secretary of this authority. The primary goal is to accelerate the development of major and specified minor mineral blocks within Gadchiroli district.

Coordination and Industrial Development

This new body aims to streamline coordination between mineral concession holders and mineral-based industries. It will also support the establishment of ultra mega steel plants by ensuring a steady supply of iron or raw materials to these facilities.

In addition to facilitating industrial growth, the bill seeks to transform Gadchiroli into a steel hub. The authority is tasked with promoting mineral-based industries in a district that has long struggled with Naxal-related challenges.

By focusing on these objectives, the authority intends to foster economic growth and stability in Gadchiroli through strategic development initiatives in mining and related sectors.

With inputs from PTI