Modi praises Naveen for mining reforms in Odisha

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for working in sync with the Centre’s vision in mining sector.

Speaking on cooperative federalism in Parliament, Modi hailed Biju Janata Dal (BJD)-led Odisha Government for introducing mining reforms in the State.

In his reply to the ‘Motion of Thanks’ in the Rajya Sabha today, Modi said, “There was a time when our natural resources were used to fill up treasury of specific people in the country. We have seen those drastic days and the issue was part of debate too. With reforms brought by the BJP in coal and mines, now the natural resources boost economy of States.”

He said that the transparency in mining sector brought profits not only for the States but also for the country.

“In the year 2000, we auctioned the mines through a process in transparent manner. The mining revenue increased in the country from Rs 14,000 crore to Rs 35,000 crore in past one year due to transfer of valid licence without verification, sale of 50% annual output in open market and 50% rebate on early operationalisation. The revenue generated through auction went to the State Governments,” Modi said adding “With massive gain, the country was also benefited. This is cooperative federalism and Odisha is the first State to have introduced the reforms. Therefore, I congratulate Odisha Chief Minister for his Government to work shoulder to shoulder.”