Imran Shah
New Delhi: During today’s meeting of the Standing Committee on Coal, Mines & Steel, the long-pending issue of regularisation of the Paddar sapphire mines was strongly raised, with emphasis on ensuring employment and sustainable livelihoods for local youth.
It was highlighted that formalising and scientifically managing the Paddar sapphire mines would not only unlock the region’s economic potential but also provide much-needed job opportunities to the local population, which has remained deprived of the benefits of this natural resource for decades.
The issue of reviving village-level steel depots was also taken up in the meeting. The demand aimed at ensuring the availability of affordable and quality steel in rural and remote areas, thereby supporting housing, infrastructure development, and small-scale construction activities at the grassroots level.
Stressing inclusive growth, it was underlined that development initiatives must reach the last mile and directly benefit rural communities, particularly in far-flung and hilly regions. The interventions were aimed at bridging regional disparities and promoting equitable economic development,DD
