‘Squatting’ on mining assets a concern, says Mines Secretary

Certain miners holding on to their acquired blocks without commencing timely operations — or ‘squatting’ — is a cause for concern that the industry must look to address, Union Mines Secretary Keshav Chandra said at the 60th Annual General Meeting of the Federation of the Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) here on Tuesday.

Separately, the senior official told mediapersons that India had kept prospects open on a return to lithium exploration in Mali. He also informed that a policy for processing of lithium and nickel was in the works.

Mr. Chandra mentioned that the government was also concerned about ‘squatting’ over mines.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the AGM, Mr. Chandra explained that mining commences after “arduous” process of approvals, including forest and environment clearances.