Shillong, Nov 22: A Joint Action Committee, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, convened its inaugural meeting on Friday at the Meghalaya Secretariat to address and simplify the concession rules under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR Act) for minor minerals.
Following the meeting, Tynsong briefed the press, stating, “This special meeting, constituted by the Forest Department, aims to revisit and review the existing concession rules under the MMDR Act. Minor minerals, including sand and stone, are a critical focus area. The government has notified this committee to address these issues, and this introductory meeting marks the beginning of discussions on revisiting the concession rules. Our next meeting is already scheduled, and the relevant departments—Forest, Mining and Geology, and Law—have been instructed to further study the existing framework to identify areas where processes can be simplified.”
When questioned about alleged illegal stone mining in the state, the Deputy Chief Minister linked the issue to the complexity of the licensing process. He explained, “Illegal activities occur because villagers, particularly those with sand or stone quarries, face challenges in navigating the highly technical and lengthy process to apply for licenses or quarry permits. This committee has been tasked with simplifying these procedures, ensuring even small-scale miners understand how to apply for mining leases or quarry permits.”
The subcommittee, comprising representatives from relevant departments, is set to meet again in December. It will focus on refining the procedural framework and ensuring the application process is accessible to small miners.
 Act (MMDR Act) for minor minerals.){kind=link}