Odisha has come out with a new policy aimed at strengthening the institutional setup for the mineral exploration in the state.
The policy also strives to upscale the exploration activities with an aim to upgrade the mineral deposit estimates up to G2 level within a reasonable time frame and eventually to G1 level so that the potential of mining sector is achieved through scientific exploitation of resources.
The Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) MMDR Amendment Act, 2015 provides for auction of major mineral concessions which can be taken up only after proving the mineralisation in the proposed lease areas. This calls for scientific exploration in the mineral bearing areas of the state for augmenting the estimated reserves, systematic planning of mining activities and conservation of minerals.
The state government will enter into memorandum of understanding (MoU) with organisations like the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Mineral Exploration Corporation Ltd (MECL) for undertaking exploration activities in the state. The GSI has already set up an office in the state. Efforts will be made to persuade the MECL to establish a field office in Odisha.
The policy also moots setting up an Odisha Mineral Exploration Corporation with participation of the Odisha Mining Corporation, MECL and mineral resource based industries. “There is need to build up the capacity, both institutional and manpower to meet the challenges of the need to upscale the mineral exploration capacity. A comprehensive review of the manpower needs of mineral exploration sector will be carried out and steps will be taken to increase the capacity of educational institutions to meet these needs”, the policy says.
The directorate of geology would publish a consolidated report on the status of mineral exploration and the estimated reserves in the state within six months. This report is expected to provide focus on exploration activities and help in identifying the exploration gaps and guiding the investment in mineral exploration.
A master plan would be prepared for a time frame of 10-15 years by the directorate of geology with technical assistance and support of experts, for taking up reconnaissance and prospecting operations, in consultation with all stakeholders.
The directorate of geology will also conduct annual review of all holders of reconnaissance permits, prospecting licenses and mining leases and continuance of such permits/licenses or leases will be linked with their performance in scientific exploration.
Prasanta Patnaik