¹[20A. Power of Central Government to issue directions.--(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, the Central Government may issue such directions to the State Governments, as may be required for the conservation of mineral resources, or on any policy matter in the national interest, and for the scientific and sustainable development and exploitation of mineral resources.

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(2) In particular, and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing powers, the Central Government may also issue directions in respect of the following matters, namely:--

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(i) improvement in procedure for grant of mineral concessions and to ensure co-ordination among agencies entrusted with according statutory clearances;

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(ii) maintenance of internet-based databases including development and operation of a mining tenement system;

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(iii) implementation and evaluation of sustainable development frameworks;

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(iv) reduction in waste generation and related waste management practices and promotion of recycling of materials;

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(v) minimising and mitigating adverse environmental impacts particularly in respect of ground water, air, ambient noise and land;

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(vi) ensuring minimal ecological disturbance, in terms of bio-diversity, flora, fauna and habitat;

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(vii) promoting restoration and reclamation activities so as to make optimal use of mined out land for the benefit of the local communities; and

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(viii) such other matters as may be necessary for the purposes of implementation of this Act.]

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1. Ins. by Act 10 of 2015, s. 18 (w.e.f. 12-1-2015).

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