Mining in reserved forests subject to four conditions: CM

He also clarified to Union Minister of state for Environment and Forests Jairam Ramesh that at no point of time has the State Government said that it has consulted his Ministry while taking this decision.

Yeddyurappa was responding to a letter written by Ramesh, who told the Karnataka Government not to approve mining projects in forest areas without his Ministry's approval.

Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister pointed out that the State can only make recommendations to the Centre on mining projects and it can't take a decision on its own.
"Clearance is left to the Centre; we don't have any right (to clear mining projects)", Yeddyurappa said.

He said the State cabinet decision was to permit mining in certain reserved forests subject to four conditions.
Yeddyurappa said necessary permissions under the Forest Act and environmental clearance from the Environment and Forests ministry had to be obtained.

Besides, approval was necessary under the Mines Act and Rules and Mining lease proposals would be considered only in case of companies who would add value within the State like steel plants. Investment proposals had to be cleared by the High Level Clearance of the State in this industry, he said.