Annual Report 2022-23: Ministry of Mines
Overview
The Ministry of Mines, a key player in India's resource sector, operates with a clear vision aimed at fostering sustainable growth through enhanced mineral production and reducing import dependency over the next five years. The overarching goal is to achieve self-sufficiency in major mineral production by promoting transparency, sustainability, and the effective implementation of policies outlined in the National Mineral Policy, 2019.
Role and Organization of the Ministry
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Vision: To double the production of critical minerals within the next five years, focusing on transparent and sustainable allocation and regulation of minerals, and promoting the exploration and mining of deep-seated minerals to meet national needs.
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Functions:
- Responsible for the survey, exploration, and mining of all minerals except natural gas, petroleum, atomic minerals, and coal.
- Oversees the administration of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and rules related to non-coal, non-natural gas, and non-petroleum minerals.
- Manages offshore areas related to mineral development and regulation under the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002.
Key Achievements and Highlights
- Policy Reform: Enacted the Mines and Mineral (Development & Regulations) (Amendment) Act, 2015, enhancing transparency in mineral concessions through public auctions with state government participation.
Structure and Organization
- Organizational Structure: Details provided on the hierarchical structure of the Ministry, including departments, divisions, and subordinate offices, offering insights into the operational framework.
International Cooperation
- Collaboration: Engages in international cooperation to enhance global partnerships, share best practices, and promote sustainable mining practices.
Attached/Subordinate Offices
- List of Entities: Includes a comprehensive directory of attached and subordinate offices, highlighting the breadth of operations and support structures within the Ministry.
Central Public Sector Undertakings
- Overview: Provides an insight into the role and achievements of central public sector undertakings associated with the Ministry, emphasizing their contributions to the Indian mineral sector.
Science, Technology, and Autonomous Bodies
- Research and Development: Details on autonomous bodies and research institutions dedicated to advancing mineral science, technology, and exploration techniques.
Corporate Social Responsibility
- Initiatives: Outlines CSR programs and initiatives aimed at benefiting marginalized communities, including SCs/STs, women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.
Budget and Audit Parameters
- Financial Management: Highlights the budgetary allocations, financial performance, and audit processes, providing transparency on the fiscal management of the Ministry.
Miscellaneous
- Additional Information: Offers supplementary data on topics such as exploration activities in the North-Eastern Region, welfare programs, budgetary details, and miscellaneous aspects pertinent to the Ministry's operations.
This report encapsulates the multifaceted role of the Ministry of Mines in driving India's mineral sector forward, underscoring its commitment to sustainable development, regulatory reform, and international collaboration.