Shillong ( Meghalaya), March 17 : The Jaiñtia National Council (JNC) has submitted a memorandum to BJP Meghalaya President Rikman Momin, urging a new “Small-Scale Scientific Coal Mining Policy” tailored to Meghalaya’s unique conditions. The policy aims to ensure environmentally responsible mining, recognizing small ancestral landholdings and promoting community-inclusive practices.
JNC emphasizes the need for a comprehensive Geological Ground Survey to determine safe mining techniques, citing the region’s unique geology with thin coal seams and irregular formations. They seek removal or amendment of the “100-hectare SOP” under the Mines and Minerals Act, deeming it impractical for Meghalaya’s tribal landholding system.
Rikman Momin assured them of action, stating the issue is “important and genuine.” The JNC hopes the Central Government will initiate policy formulation reflecting Meghalaya’s ground realities.
