CM Hemant Sorens’ Called for Accountability on Jharkhand’s Coal Royalties
Jharkhand’s CM, Hemant Soren, responded to BJP leaders’ comments on the state’s Rs. 1.36 lakh Crores dues from central coal companies. He suggested that questions should be directed to the Union Mining Minister, as BJP leaders deny forming a high-power committee to address the issue. Soren has repeatedly written to the coal minister and PM.
Governor Approved Five Key Bills in Jharkhand
Jharkhand’s Governor has approved five bills passed by the state assembly. The approved bills include the Jharkhand Fire Services Bill, Jharkhand Mineral Holding Land Cess Bill, Jharkhand Private Universities Bill, paving the way for significant legislative developments in the state.
PM Modi will Discuss on Progress Portal with CS Alka Tiwari
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a video conference with Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari on 27th February to discuss the Progress Portal. Launched in 2015 as part of Digital India, the portal aims to enhance communication between government departments and streamline project execution by addressing implementation barriers.
Coal India Seeks New Chairman as Current Tenure Ends
Coal India is searching for a new chairman as the current chairman, P.M. Prasad’s term ends on 1st November. The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has invited applications, with a salary range of Rs. 2 lakh to Rs. 3.7 lakh. The maximum age for applicants from Coal India and its subsidiaries is 58, with applications due by 25th February.
Jharkhand Government will Form Commission to Return Unused Land
The Jharkhand Government will form a commission to return acquired land to original owners if unused for five years. This move, part of the Action Taken Report (ATR) presented in the assembly, aims to address concerns over land misuse. The ATR also highlighted challenges like delayed education allowances for Government employees and plans for a new Water Commission for better resource management.
Fraud by Stone Mining Operators Exposed in Audit
Eight stone mining operators in Pakur were found guilty of fraud after manipulating mining areas to evade environmental regulations. An audit revealed that they reduced lease areas to avoid mandatory public hearings and environmental assessments. Despite the violations, the authorities revoked their environmental certificates but allowed them to reapply, prompting a complaint to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for further investigation.
Villagers Demanded Resolution of Land Issues Before Talks on Displacement
In a Gram Sabha organized in Jatratand, Chandwa, villagers raised concerns about land-related issues before start talks about displacement with TVUNL company. They highlighted issues like unresolved forest land rights, survey errors, and illegal encroachments. They demanded that these problems be addressed in a local camp before any further discussions on relocation take place.
Factory Shutdown devastated 2000 Families in Crisis
The closure of a glass factory in Bhadaninagar, Ramgarh, has devastated 2,000 families, including 1,600 permanent and 400 contract workers. Originally founded in 1952, the factory faced financial troubles under various owners. After the latest shutdown in 2016, workers have been left without jobs, and the community now faces severe livelihood challenges.
29-Hour Road Blocked in Protest Over Compensation Demand
Angry relatives and villagers blocked the Barkagaon-Hazaribagh road for 29 hours, demanded compensation after the death of Bigan Mahto in a road accident. The incident occurred when two bikers collided while avoiding a truck. Protesters demanded Rs. 60 lakh compensation, a job for the family, and lifelong education for the victim’s child. Former MLA Amba Prasad intervened.
Hindalco Distributes Solar Lamps to Students for Better Learning
Hindalco’s Kathotia Mines management distributed solar study lamps to around 500 students of 8 middle schools in the mining area. The initiative aims to support students’ studies despite unreliable electricity supply. Mines Manager Nishikant Kumar emphasized the company’s commitment to improving local living standards, while CSR Head Shobha Rani Mohanty highlighted the goal of increasing student attendance.
