Govt to felicitate top-performing mines for sustainable practices

Jaipur, Jul 6 (PTI) The Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), under the Ministry of Mines, will felicitate top-performing mines across the country at a national-level ceremony in Jaipur on Monday, recognising their adherence to sustainable and responsible mining practices under the 'Star Rating' scheme.

Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy will be the chief guest at the event, while Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey will attend as guests of honour. Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Mines Sanjay Lohiya will also be present, an official statement said Sunday.

The felicitation ceremony, to be held at the Rajasthan International Centre, will honour three 7-star rated mines and 95 5-star rated mines for their performance during 2023-24.

Introduced in 2014-15, the Star Rating of Mines initiative evaluates mining operations within a Sustainable Development Framework. It aims to encourage responsible mining by promoting environmental protection, social welfare, and economic development in mining regions, thereby fostering inclusive growth for present and future generations, the statement said.

Officials said the programme has gained significant traction in the mining community, creating a competitive spirit among operators and motivating them to adopt best practices. The Ministry of Mines noted that national-level recognition has led to tangible improvements in mine management, benefiting both the industry and local communities. PTI AG HVA