Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Sep 12: With Goa's mining season set to begin in October, the Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association (GMOEA) has urged the State government to intervene in resolving delays in obtaining necessary NOCs and clearances, which are hampering the timely resumption of iron ore mining activities.

In a meeting with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, a GMOEA delegation led by secretary Glen Kalavampara submitted a formal memorandum outlining the industry's concerns. Kalavampara highlighted that, despite continued efforts by mining companies, bureaucratic delays in approvals continue to hinder operational readiness.

“These delays directly impact the granting of permissions and stall operations that are otherwise ready to move forward,” Kalavampara said in a statement to The Goan. He stressed the need for regular review meetings between industry stakeholders and State authorities to pre-empt and resolve operational roadblocks.

After years of legal and regulatory setbacks, Goa’s mining industry is attempting a cautious comeback. Since 2023, the State has conducted e-auctions for 12 mineral blocks, covering 24 mining leases. Out of these, nine blocks have secured Environmental Clearance (EC), and three have commenced fresh operations.
The blocks auctioned so far include:

• Cudnem-Cormolem
• Surla-Sonshi
• Advalpale-Tivim
• Cudnem
• Tivim-Pirna
• Kalay (Sanguem)
• Bicholim-Mulgao
• Sirigao-Mayem
• Monte-de-Sirigao
• Curpem-Sulcorna
• Onda
• Codli iron ore block

The GMOEA has emphasized that timely intervention by the State government is crucial to fully restarting mining operations, which are vital to Goa’s economy and employment landscape. As the clock ticks down to October, the industry is hoping for swift administrative action to ensure a smooth start to the upcoming season.