Provisions for Relief and Rehabilitation of STS

Mining operations often involve acquisition of land held by individuals therefore the National Mineral Policy provides for social impact assessment and also adequate provisions for Relief and Rehabilitation. The National Mineral Policy, 2008 (For non-fuel and non- coal minerals) in para 7.11 provides that “in so far as indigenous (tribal) populations are concerned the Sustainable Development Framework shall incorporate models of stakeholder interest for them in situations where the weaker sections like the local tribal populations are likely to be deprived of their means of livelihood as a result of the mining intervention. In areas in which minerals occur and which are inhabited by tribal communities and weaker sections it is imperative to recognize resettlement process of the affected zone. Thus all measures proposed to be taken will be formulated with the active participation of the affected persons, rather than externally imposed. A careful assessment of the economic, environmental and social impact on the affected persons will be made”.

Accordingly, the draft Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Bill, 2011 has been introduced in the Lok Sabha on 12th December 2011, presently referred to the Standing Committee on Coal and Steel.