Govt likely to fix miners' contribution to DMF at 30 pc

The Mines Ministry is likely to set miners’ contribution to the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) at 30 per cent of the royalty paid to the state government.

The Mines and Minerals (Amendment) Act, 2015, passed by Parliament, makes mandatory setting up of a DMF in all districts where mining takes place, for development of the area.

“The contribution to DMF has been agreed at 30 per cent for new leases. The guidelines have also been finalised and these will be notified this week itself,” a source said.

On the quantum of payment towards DMF for existing miners, the source said the amount will not be 100 pc of the royalty paid to the state as the idea is to get as much funds possible for DMF to develop project affected areas, but also ensure the companies are not excessively burdened.