The Ministry of Mines organized a significant workshop on Granite and Marble mining in Bengaluru, addressing the industry’s pressing issues and exploring sustainable practices. The event was inaugurated by VL Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, GoI, who highlighted the various reforms and initiatives undertaken by the central government to enhance transparency and efficiency in the mining sector.
In his address, Rao emphasized the importance of state governments adopting similar reforms for the minor mineral sector. He highlighted the availability of comprehensive exploration data through the National Geo-Data Repository (NGDR) Portal, which is designed to facilitate access to vital information for all stakeholders in the mining industry. Rao called for collaborative efforts between central and state governments to comprehensively reform the minor mineral sector, noting that the workshop serves as a crucial brainstorming session for industry representatives and government officials to devise effective solutions.
Dr Shalini Rajneesh, Additional Chief Secretary & Development Commissioner, Government of Karnataka, delivered the keynote address, stressing the importance of government-industry collaboration to overcome administrative and technological challenges in the granite and marble mining sector. She underscored the necessity of sustainability in all economic activities, including mining, and encouraged innovative contributions and startup ideas to address the sector’s challenges. Dr Rajneesh also advocated for the use of IT platforms to manage critical areas of the mining sector, ensuring greater transparency and reducing grievances.
Following the inaugural session, various stakeholders presented their perspectives on granite and marble mining issues. Representatives from the state governments of Karnataka, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana responded to industry concerns and showcased best practices in the regulation of granite and marble minerals.
Dr B Panduranga Rao, Joint Director, National Council for Cement and Building Material DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce, presented on the critical role of the granite and marble industry in India’s cement and construction sectors. Additionally, Piyush Narayan Sharma, Chief Controller of Mines, Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), discussed the sustainable development framework in the mining sector and the star rating system for mines.
The workshop highlighted the need for continuous dialogue and cooperation between government bodies and industry stakeholders to ensure the sustainable development of the granite and marble mining sector.
