Odisha Govt. demands imposition of rent tax & early ban on iron ore export

Reiterating its
earlier demand, Odisha Government on Wednesday sought a complete ban on iron
ore export from India.

“A ban on the export
of iron should be imposed immediately,” Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said
in a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

“This will not only
bring down domestic prices of iron ore but also encourage local
industries to invest in technologies to utilize the iron ore fines
presently being exported, besides ensuring that mining activities are regulated
and sustainable,” Patnaik wrote.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also told the Centre
that the state government was ready to provide further information if needed
for imposition of a Mineral Rent Resource Tax (MRRT) on iron ore.

Patnaik, who has been demanding imposition of rent tax at
the rate of 50 per cent on iron ore in view of the super normal profit being
made by private mine owners, said, “I understand that the Economic
Advisory Council (EAC) has been asked to examine the issue.” “I do
hope that the EAC has completed the exercise and given its views to your office.”