Government notified amended rules in mineral conservation and development

NEW DELHI: The Government of India notified the amended norms of mineral conservation and development rules. It aims to improve mine planning practices, security and safety in mines along with ensuring better supervision of mining operations. The Mineral Conservation and Development Rules (MCDR) were drafted (MMDR Act) under section 18 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

The amended rules were framed after extensive consultations with governments, industry associations, miners, other stakeholders and general public. With the amendment, the provision of daily return has been omitted to reduce compliance burden. Moreover, along with the state government, Indian Bureau of Mines will also have the power of taking action against incomplete or wrong or false information in monthly or annual returns.

Previously, the rules provided for penalty of imprisonment for up to two years or fine of up to Rs 5 lakh or both for violation of each and every rule, irrespective of the severity of the violation. However, all the penalty provisions have been rationalized now. The Ministry of Mines, Government of India, said in an official statement that violation of other rules has been decriminalised, because they do not cast any significant obligation on the concession holder.