• The ministry of mines said that out of 2,52,995 projects sanctioned under Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY), 1,33,144 have been completed so far.

• The Centre launched PMKKKY to provide for the welfare of areas and people affected by mining-related operations, using the funds generated by District Mineral Foundations (DMFs).

• Till September this year, Rs 63,534.07 crore stands allocated and Rs 37,422.94 crore has been spent.

• As per the latest official figures, DMFs have been formed in 622 districts spread across 23 states.

What is District Mineral Foundation?

• District Mineral Foundation (DMF) is meant to address the longstanding demand of the local people in mining areas for inclusive growth.

• The concept of DMF was introduced through an amendment in Mines & Minerals (Development & Regulation) MMDR Act, 1957.

• The amendment introduced Section 9B which provides for setting up of DMF, a trust as non-profit body, in all districts affected by mining-related operations.

• A DMF works for the interest and benefit of people and areas affected by mining.

What is PMKKKY?

• Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) is a programme meant to provide for the welfare of areas and people affected by mining related operations, using the funds generated by District Mineral Foundations (DMFs).

• The Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Amendment Act, 2015, mandated the setting up of DMFs in all districts in the country affected by mining related operations. 

Objectives of PMKKKY scheme:

i) To implement various developmental and welfare projects/programmes in mining affected areas that complement the existing ongoing schemes/projects of state and central government.

ii) To minimise/mitigate the adverse impacts, during and after mining, on the environment, health and socio-economics of people in mining districts.

iii) To ensure long-term sustainable livelihoods for the affected people in mining areas.

• Care has been taken to include all aspects of living, to ensure substantial improvement in the quality of life. 

• High priority areas like drinking water supply, health care, sanitation, education, skill development, women and child care, welfare of aged and disabled people, skill development and environment conservation will get at least 60 per cent share of the funds. 

• For creating a supportive and conducive living environment, balance funds will be spent on making roads, bridges, railways, waterways projects, irrigation and alternative energy sources. 

• This way, government is facilitating mainstreaming of the people from lower strata of society, tribals and forest-dwellers who have no wherewithal and are affected the most from mining activities.

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