Meghalaya Seeks Easier Coal Mining Approvals for Tribal Landowners

The Meghalaya government has urged the central government to simplify the coal mining approval process for tribal landowners in the state. The request aims to allow small tribal coal holders to obtain mineral concessions and necessary clearances locally, within Meghalaya itself. Currently, these landowners are required to seek approvals from central agencies, a process the state considers burdensome. Easing these requirements would enable tribal communities to legally mine coal on their own land with greater efficiency. The move reflects the state's push to empower indigenous landowners while bringing small-scale coal mining within a formal regulatory framework.