Ministry of Mines Introduces Aspirational DMF Programme
Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri G Kishan Reddy, unveiled the operational guidelines for the ‘Aspirational DMF Programme’ today during the National DMF Workshop in New Delhi. This initiative aims to align the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) initiatives with the Aspirational District Programme (ADP) and Aspirational Block Programmes (ABP). The guidelines are intended to enhance socio-economic conditions in India’s most underserved regions by integrating DMF planning with national development priorities.
Inauguration of the National DMF Workshop
The National DMF Workshop was inaugurated by Union Minister Shri G Kishan Reddy and Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey. The event saw participation from senior officials of the Ministry of Mines, representatives from DMF districts, State DMF Nodal Officers, and officials from various line ministries. A total of 152 District Mineral Foundations were represented, with 62 district collectors in attendance. The workshop served as a platform for discussing the strategic role of DMFs in transforming mining-affected regions through targeted funding in health, education, nutrition, and infrastructure.
In his inaugural address, Minister Reddy emphasized the importance of DMFs in driving large-scale change in mining areas. He called upon district collectors and state governments to treat DMF initiatives as a mission, focusing on community-centered activities and ensuring the full utilization of available funds. He reiterated the Ministry of Mines’ commitment to aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision of a developed and self-reliant India, where development reaches every corner of the nation.
Key Discussions and Presentations
The workshop featured a series of impactful sessions that highlighted the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing DMF operations. Senior dignitaries delivered keynote addresses, stressing the significance of transparency, innovation, and collaboration in implementing DMF initiatives. District Magistrates and Collectors presented insights on various themes, including DMF transparency, innovative practices, implementation challenges, and capacity building. These presentations provided valuable recommendations for improving DMF operations.
Additionally, representatives from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) shared perspectives on audit practices and accountability mechanisms, emphasizing the need for robust oversight in DMF initiatives. The event also marked the launch of the Coffee Table Book 2.0, which showcased transformative projects funded by DMFs across India, illustrating the tangible benefits of these efforts in mining-affected communities.
Recognition and Future Directions
During the workshop, several states, including Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Odisha, were recognized for adopting the revised PMKKKY 2024 guidelines into their DMF Rules. Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Chhattisgarh were also acknowledged for their timely closure of annual audit reports, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability. The workshop concluded with an action plan for all districts and states to ensure focused implementation of the PMKKKY Guidelines 2024 in their DMFs.
Earlier in the day, Minister Reddy inaugurated the DMF Exhibition at Handloom Haat (Janpath), where he interacted with members of Self-Help Groups. The exhibition showcases products and enterprises supported by DMF funds and will continue until July 15, 2025, providing a platform for SHGs from mining-affected areas to display their work and engage with a broader audience.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
The National DMF Workshop and the accompanying exhibition reaffirm the Ministry’s vision to align DMF efforts with national development priorities. By ensuring that mining-affected communities benefit from inclusive, sustainable, and impactful development, the Ministry aims to create a positive change in the lives of those in these regions. The collaborative efforts highlighted during the workshop reflect a commitment to leveraging mineral wealth for the betterment of society, ensuring that the benefits reach the last mile.
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