The Odisha government has formulated the new Odisha Mineral Exploration Policy-2015 which aims at upgrading the exploration level to G2 in keeping with UNFC norms within a reasonable time frame and eventually to G1 level so that the potential of mining sector is achieved through scientific exploration of mineral resources. The framework for the Policy was cleared by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik here on June 27.
Under this new Policy, the State Government will enter into Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Geological Survey of India (GSI) and Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL) to achieve the maximum potential of exploration of the mining sector in Odisha.
The Central Government has mandated and permitted GSI and MECL to undertake mineral exploration without obtaining reconnaissance permit, prospecting lease or licence.
Similarly, the Directorate of Geology will be strengthened with augmentation of manpower and financial resources for intensifying mineral exploration activities.
These are some of the features of the new policy framework, which has been designed by the Department of Steel and Mines (DoSM). The possibility of setting up an Odisha Mineral Exploration Corporation with participation of the Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) , MECL and Mineral based Industries of the State will be explored in order to intensify the mineral exploration in the State.
A comprehensive review of manpower needs of the mineral exploration sector will be carried out and steps will be taken to increase the capacity of educational institutions to meet the needs. It has been decided to publish a consolidated report on the status of mineral exploration and estimated mineral reserves in the State within six months, said official sources.
Odisha accounts for 20 percent of Iron Ore, 25 percent of Coal, 44 percent of Manganese, 54 percent of Bauxite, 87 percent of Chromites of the country. While mining sector provides about seven percent of GSDP, there is enough scope for the same to contribute more. Hence, accurate assessment of mineral resources through scientific exploration is a pre-requisite for optimum exploration of these valuable natural resources.
Accordingly, a Master Plan will be prepared by the Directorate of Geology within 15 years for taking up reconnaissance and processing operations for mineral exploration, in consultation with all stakeholders.
The MMDR Amendment Act-2015 provides for auction of major mineral concessions which can be taken up only after proving the mineralization in the proposed lease areas. So the State government has formulated the new policy to expedite the systematic planning and exploration of the mineral resources, said a senior official in DoSM.
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