Chhattisgarh is not merely the ‘Rice Bowl’ of India; it is also a state rich in mineral resources, vital for the nation’s energy and industrial needs. This was emphasized by Raipur MP and senior BJP leader Brijmohan Agrawal during a meeting of the Coal and Mines Ministry’s advisory committee in Hyderabad. The meeting included Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey, committee members, and senior ministry officials.
The first session of the meeting focused on ‘Beyond Mining: Mine Closure and Reuse,’ while the second session discussed ‘Mineral Exploration in India.’ Agrawal presented the issues and potential of Chhattisgarh’s mineral sector, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and responsible resource management.
Agrawal advocated for the safety and reuse of closed mines. He proposed filling abandoned mines with fly ash and overburden material to prevent accidents, ensuring the safe disposal of waste. He suggested that fly ash from NTPC plants be used to fill closed mines of SECL, with payments on a per-ton basis. He cited a recent accident in Dhamda, Durg district, as an example of the dangers posed by neglected mines. He proposed that land filled with fly ash be leased to farmers for agricultural use.
He also expressed concern over coal theft and the need for data monitoring systems in every mine, along with the operation of all weighbridges under an authorized body.
Agrawal suggested that tree planting be made mandatory in mining areas to offset forest damage. He proposed that every mine area should have basic facilities like schools, ITIs, coaching centers, hospitals, and water treatment plants. He also recommended that CSR funds be extended to Coal Advisory Committee members to enable their active participation in regional development.
During the second session, he stressed the need for serious efforts towards mineral exploration in Chhattisgarh. He mentioned the rich potential of the state, including the Paylikhand area of Gariaband district, known for its diamond deposits, and the presence of diamonds in Tumla village of Jashpur district. He highlighted the availability of natural diamonds, alexandrite, garnet, beryl, quartz, amethyst, and the strong possibility of lithium and other mineral reserves. He emphasized that the use of state resources should prioritize local youth employment, regional development, and national interests while maintaining a balance between development and environmental protection.
He demanded the establishment of a Mining Bureau in Chhattisgarh and the opening of regional offices of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) for the scientific and transparent exploitation of the state’s mineral potential. The meeting concluded with the decision to make closed mines safe and environmentally reusable, and a letter would be sent to the state government to take concrete steps in this direction.
