Panaji (Goa) Goa government is dragging its feet on deciding over implementation of projects under district mineral fund which is collected from various mining firms and accumulated in the state treasury.

State mines and geology Director Prasanna Acharya confirmed that fund to the tune of Rs 115 crore is pending with the State government which is yet to be utilised in the mining belt in absence of the committee.

“State government has almost finalised the formation of the committee which is likely to be headed by State mines Secretary. The composition of the committee is being worked out,” Acharya said.

As per the Supreme Court directives the mining firms have to contribute 30 percent of the royalty to this fund.

The fund has to be utilised to create infrastructure and other facilities in the mining belt.

Acharya said that the money which is collected is with the State government and is not diverted for any other purpose.

South Goa collector Swapnil Naik said that the district administration is yet to receive the funds from the State government.

Both the district Collectors are nodal officers for the implementation of schemes under this fund.

Naik said the fund can be utilised only when it is transferred to the district administration.

State’s mining industry which has been contributing to the fund and monitoring the events over formation of the committee to utilise it, has said that they too should get a representation on it (the committee).

“It is also relevant to have industry representatives on the district mineral fund committee,” Goa mineral ore exporters association’s Secretary Glenn Kalavampara reacted when contacted.

“Certain part of district mineral fund needs to be considered towards development of infrastructure within the mining belt which is critical,” he added.

Kalavampara said while executing the works in mining belt under this fund the private agencies which are experienced in the field should be engaged.

Team TNV