Mumbai, July 13 -- The Chief Minister of Meghalaya has urged the Central Government to delegate regulatory and administrative powers to the state government to facilitate scientific coal mining within the state. He argued that devolving authority would allow quicker decision making, better oversight and the adoption of modern extraction methods tailored to local geology. The appeal was framed as part of a wider push to balance resource development with environmental protection and public safety. The proposal is intended to attract responsible investment and to support technological upgrades in the sector.
State officials said that current arrangements create delays and overlapping jurisdiction that hinder investment in safe and sustainable coal extraction. They advised that delegation would enable the state to implement stricter safety protocols, stronger rehabilitation plans for mined sites and more rigorous monitoring of environmental impacts. The government intends to ensure that any mining operation complies with existing national standards while addressing local concerns. Local leaders will be consulted throughout.
The Chief Minister emphasised that local administration is better placed to oversee land acquisition, community consultations and benefit sharing with affected villages. He suggested that a clear framework would improve revenue flows to the state treasury and bolster employment in regulated sectors linked to mining activity. Officials indicated plans to seek technical assistance from central agencies while retaining operational control at the state level.
Meghalaya will pursue formal discussions with the relevant central ministries to negotiate the scope and timeline for any transfer of powers, and to establish joint monitoring mechanisms. The state government plans to prepare draft guidelines and legislative proposals that aim to streamline approvals without compromising environmental safeguards. Authorities said the objective is to create a transparent and accountable model of scientific coal mining that safeguards livelihoods and ecosystems. Officials plan to publish timelines and performance indicators to ensure accountability.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.