Sikkim Minister attends 3rd National Mining Ministers’ Conference in Odisha

Minister of Mines & Geology, Government of Sikkim, Pintso Namgyal Lepcha participated in the two-day 3rd National Mining Ministers’ Conference held in Konark, Odisha. The conference, which began with an inaugural session was attended by Union Minister of Mines G. Kishan Reddy and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who served as the Chief Guest.

Deputy Chief Ministers from Maharashtra and Bihar, along with 11 other state ministers representing regions such as Bihar, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Assam and Chhattisgarh also took part in the conference.

The discussions at the event focused on key issues, including the auction of mineral blocks, innovations in mining practices, and mine safety. The Ministry of Mines emphasized sustainable development strategies to enhance mineral resource management while safeguarding environmental and societal well-being.

In his address, Pintso Namgyal Lepcha highlighted the unique mineral resources of Sikkim and the challenges posed by the fragile geology of the region. “Our geology does not permit heavy mineral extraction, but we can explore sustainable practices for specific resources like base metals in Dikchu and coal in Namchi and surrounding areas,” he said.

The Minister also conveyed warm regards from Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang to the gathering and noted the importance of the conference as a platform for knowledge exchange. He spoke on the value of learning from best practices in mining and understanding its impact on stakeholders, particularly for North Eastern states.

Lepcha was accompanied by Secretary of the Department of Mines & Geology, Dicky Yangzom, IAS, and Principal Director, Phigu Bhutia.