HT Bureau
DIPHU, Sept 2: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) and Assam Mineral Development Corporation Limited (AMDCL – a government of Assam undertaking) for mineral prospecting, exploration survey, mining of the mineral deposits under the jurisdiction of KAAC. The MoU was signed in presence of minister of Mines and Minerals and Power, Nandita Garlosa here at Arboretum-cum-Craft Centre, Matipung on Friday.
Earlier, before the signing of MoU, a meeting was held between KAAC and AMDCL, which was chaired by chief executive member (CEM) of KAAC, Tuliram Ronghang and was attended by Nandita Garlosa; MLAs Bidyasing Engleng, Dorsing Ronghang and Rupsing Teron, executive members and Members of Autonomous Council of KAAC.
The meeting discussed the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for exploration, auction and mining of minerals and sharing of royalties in the districts of Karbi Anglong, West Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao with the government of Assam.
Later, informing media persons CEM Ronghang said, “A discussion was held on the SOP with AMDCL relating to mining and exploration in Karbi Anglong.”
He also said the survey for a mining site has already been completed. “After discussions with chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Nandita Garlosa, it has been agreed that the Government of Assam will receive 40 percent of revenue, while KAAC will get 60 percent revenue from the mining,” he said.
The CEM further said the legalisation of mining will stop illegal mining activities. Regarding the degradation of the environment, the CEM said no environmental degradation will take place according to the survey. Mining will employ a large number of unskilled workers.
Minister Garlosa said, “It was a successful meeting between KAAC and the Mines and Minerals Department, we are moving forward. The Mines & Mineral and Power are revenue generating sectors. We can generate more revenue for the Government.”
The minister also held a meeting with the officials of APDCL and asked it to have its office in West Karbi Anglong.