Mining can co-exist with 'environment protection': Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore

Union Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore Tuesday said mining can co-exist with "environment protection". He, however, refused to comment on the demand of various stakeholders for the resumption of the mining activity in Goa. Mining in the coastal state came to a halt in March this year after the supreme court quashed renewal of 88 mining leases.

It is to be noted that Union Law Ministry had reportedly asked the Central government to decline the Goa government's request for an amendment to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act to resume mining. "Mining can co-exist with the environment protection," Rathore said in Sankhalim village near here.

The minister was referring to the mining site of Vedanta in the village which has been turned into a football academy and a skill training centre. Rathore parried a query when asked whether he supports the resumption of mining in Goa.

"If a minister dealing with mining makes this comment on co-existence of mining with the environment then I can say it is a policy, but I deal with my subjects only," he said. The minister's statement came at a time when the mining industry in Goa is struggling for survival.