Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy Discusses Jharia Issues with IIT ISM Students

Minister Visits Campus Tea Stall, Addresses Mining Pollution and Women’s Employment

Key Points:

• Minister discusses Jharia coal fire and pollution concerns with students
• Government building 30,000 homes for affected residents in safe areas
• Women’s shift planned in mining sector under new labor code

DHANBAD – Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy visited Ramdhani tea stall at IIT ISM campus. He engaged with students over tea on December 23.

Students raised critical questions about Jharia’s burning coal mines. They highlighted increasing pollution levels from overburden dumps. Moreover, health impacts on residents were discussed extensively.

The minister acknowledged the severity of gas emissions. He called controlling these emissions a major challenge. However, the government has constructed 30,000 residential units.

These homes provide safer accommodation for affected families. Better facilities and employment opportunities are being developed. In addition, officials held meetings regarding these initiatives.

Reddy explained the century-old fire continues burning underground. Commercial mining operations also function in affected areas. Furthermore, government initiatives focus on relocating vulnerable populations.

A female student questioned limited placement opportunities for women. The minister responded with encouraging employment projections. Dhanbad mining sector will see significant female recruitment.

New labor code provisions support women’s employment initiatives. One complete shift will be dedicated for women workers. Besides, these changes will be implemented soon.

The minister criticized historical mining closure practices. Scientific methods were not followed during earlier operations. On the other hand, deep coal seams remained untouched.

Prime Minister Modi has issued clear directives on mine closure. Thousands of crores will be invested in proper activities. Environmental rehabilitation remains a top priority for authorities.

Fisheries resources development within mining areas received attention. All institutions will participate in environmental restoration efforts. Meanwhile, collaborative approaches are being emphasized strongly.

IIT ISM Dhanbad students actively engaged with the minister. President Murmu recently honored students at the institute’s convocation. Furthermore, IIT ISM continues hosting national academic conferences. The institution maintains strong industry partnerships with Tata Steel for internship programs.

Reddy also met tea stall operator Ramdhani personally. He encouraged him for his dedicated campus service.

Coal India and BCCL officials attended separate meetings today. These discussions covered pollution control and rehabilitation strategies comprehensively.