Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday assured that the upcoming mining policy being developed by the central government will significantly improve ease of doing business for the industrial sector. He stated that under the proposed framework, all necessary approvals would be granted within three months, enabling mining operations to commence from the fourth month.
Speaking at an event held in Nagpur, Gadkari mentioned that the draft policy was recently brought before the Union Cabinet for discussion. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed reservations and sought further refinement. Following this, Gadkari provided a set of suggestions, prompting the Prime Minister to instruct the Cabinet Secretary to rework the draft policy in consultation with Gadkari.
Gadkari emphasized that environmental clearances should be issued within a maximum of one month. He added that all approvals required from both central and state governments must be completed within a fixed timeline. According to his plan, all clearances should be finalized within three months to facilitate the beginning of mining production in the fourth month.
He expressed confidence that the new mining policy will eliminate bureaucratic delays and enable seamless operations for industries. The policy is also expected to boost industrial activities and generate employment, particularly in underdeveloped regions like Vidarbha.
While addressing the issue of employment, Gadkari referenced Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, stating that Nehru focused on maximizing production while Gandhi emphasized widespread participation. He said the new mining policy is inspired by these philosophies and will play a vital role in regional development and inclusive growth.
