2 hrs ago

How Mining Revenue Could Support District Development

Mining can provide jobs and money to governments.

The article says some of that money can help pay for roads, schools, health services and clean drinking water near mines.

District Mineral Foundations are one way to direct mineral-linked funds to local needs.

The article reports that state mineral revenues have grown over time.

It also says many mineral blocks have been auctioned, though fewer have started operating.

Odisha is highlighted for having 34 auctioned blocks in operation.

A new law sets out conditions for certain state charges on mineral land and rights.

The article argues that steady mining can support workers, states and local communities over many years.

Key facts

District Mineral Foundations: 656 nationwide, including 106 in aspirational districts, according to the article.
Jharkhand DMF collections: Around ₹19,000 crore across all 24 districts.
State mineral revenue: Rose from ₹25,206 crore in 2014-15 to ₹1,14,549 crore in 2025-26.
Mineral block auctions: More than 720 blocks auctioned since 2015; 105 became operational.
Odisha: 79 blocks auctioned and 34 operationalised, the highest operational count among states stated in the article.
Amendment commencement: The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2026 came into force on 22 August 2026.
Mineral imports: The article reports imports worth ₹10,12,529 crore in FY 2025-26.

freepressjournal.in · 2 hrs ago