The executive committee of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) assured the house today that the council will follow up with the state government to ensure that the Meghalaya Minor Minerals Concession Rules (MMMCR) 2016 do not negatively impact small stone and sand miners who use traditional tools and methods.
Chief Executive Member (CEM) Shemborlang Rynjah provided this assurance during the second day of the KHADC budget session while responding to a motion proposed by the leader of the opposition Titosstarwell Chyne.
Rynjah explained that, although the district council’s role is limited to issuing no objection certificates (NOCs) for land use according to the rules, the executive committee will seek ways to pressure the state government to amend the rules in order to support small miners while also safeguarding the environment.
He acknowledged previous suggestions to include the term ‘Traditional Mining’ in the MMMCR 2016. Rynjah also expressed concern over the environmental destruction caused by modern heavy machinery, which can also reduce employment opportunities through mechanisation.
Earlier, Chyne, the Sohra MDC, highlighted that small stone and sand miners, including women in areas such as Sohiong, Mawkynrew and Sohra, rely on traditional tools rather than heavy equipment for their livelihoods. He asserted that existing restrictions are detrimental to these small traditional miners.
While the state has a role to play, the district council must also consider the welfare of the indigenous people who depend on traditional mining, including drivers and others, Chyne added.
Meanwhile, Rynjah assured the house that he would explore ways to provide employment opportunities for indigenous youth.
In response to a motion raised by Chyne regarding youth unemployment, Rynjah stated that it is important to start small and provide training and he has been having consultations on this issue. Chyne expressed hope that the executive committee would allocate a larger budget to support youth employment initiatives.
