Question : COAL MINING

(a) whether the Minister`s order authorising State Government companies or undertakings to do regular coal or lignite mining has been welcomed by the States;

(b) if so, whether many States have shown an interest to take up coal mining as a business through joint venture with private investors;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether most State Governments are looking for private partners;

(e) if so, the names of the States alongwith reasons therefor; and

(f) the extent to which they have been successful?

MINISTER OF COAL (SHRI KARIYA MUNDA)

(a) No such reactions from the State Governments have been received.

(b) A few State Governments have requested for allocation of coal blocks. However, no request for taking up coal mining as a business through joint venture specifically with private investors has been received.

(c) to (f) Questions do not arise.