CM Pramod Sawant seeks resumption of 153 iron ore mineral leases in Western Ghats

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has demanded the resumption of 153 iron ore mineral leases located in the ecologically sensitive areas of the Western Ghats. He raised this issue during the fourth Conference of Mineral Ministers on reforms in the mineral and coal sector held in Goa on Thursday. Sawant stated that a review of several villages, including these areas, should be conducted based on scientific assessment and applicable legal processes, so that the auction of appropriate mineral resources can be considered while protecting ecologically sensitive sites.

In the context of forestry and environmental laws, the Chief Minister has sought a solution from the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests. He expressed concern regarding the availability of land for compensatory afforestation, particularly for blocks associated with forest land. Sawant added that limited land is available in Goa for this purpose, and he hopes for a solution within the existing forest and environmental laws through the ministry's guidelines.

Currently, the Supreme Court has cancelled mineral leases in areas temporarily identified as ecologically sensitive in the Western Ghats. Due to uncertainty regarding the status of these areas by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests, Goa has not yet been able to auction leases in these villages.

Providing information on the current state of the mining sector, Sawant stated that 17 mineral blocks have been auctioned in the state so far, of which 6 are operational. Against the annual production limit of 20 million tonnes set by the Supreme Court, current annual production has reached approximately 19.15 million tonnes. According to the Chief Minister, once block and dump mining reach their full capacity, they will generate an annual revenue of ₹4,000 crore and create employment opportunities for 4,000 to 5,000 people.

On the other hand, environmental activist Ramesh Gauns has expressed outrage over the Chief Minister's statement. According to a Hindustan Times report, Gauns said that while the Chief Minister wishes to open new mines in sensitive areas, the situation in mines that are already open remains as restrictive as before. He alleged that there is no monitoring and people have to take to the streets to protest against pollution. Gauns further stated that the Chief Minister appears to be making these announcements to give hope to those dependent on mining, keeping the upcoming elections in mind.

Responding to these criticisms, Pramod Sawant clarified that the state government will not tolerate any violation of environmental laws or prescribed mining conditions. He emphasised that every operator must adhere to environmental clearances, approved mining plans, and all statutory safety regulations. He added that no compromise would be made with forests, rivers, biodiversity, and the health of people living in mining areas, and strict action will be taken against violators. He welcomed responsible mining with strict adherence to environmental conditions.

In historical context, during the boom period of the mining industry between 2006 and 2012, primarily driven by demand from China, Goa had 127 operational mineral leases and produced 54 million tonnes before operations ceased.