DMF flags ‘unwarranted’ proposals by depts, Rs 1.55 cr projects rejected

PANAJI
Taking serious note of government departments proposing “unwarranted” and “non-beneficial” projects for mining-affected areas under the District Mineral Foundation (DMF), the Governing Body has issued a strong directive that only projects directly benefiting the mining community be routed through the fund.
During a review of sanctioned projects under the North Goa DMF Trust last month, the Governing Council expressed concern over proposals that fall outside the core mandate of the fund and do not provide tangible benefits to affected communities. Departments have now been asked to undertake such works using their own internal budgets instead of relying on DMF allocations.
As such, the Governing Council rejected the proposals worth Rs 1.55 crore involving the purchase of a Scorpio vehicle, Mahindra Thar and installation of a grid connection solar power system on various government high schools in the mining areas.
“Government departments should undertake certain projects using departmental funds and ensure that only projects that directly benefit the community are brought before the DMF,” it said.
The move comes in the backdrop of revised Pradhan Mantri Khanij Keshtra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) guidelines issued by the Ministry of Mines, which clearly bar a range of activities from being funded under DMF. These include projects outside mining-affected areas, works offering private or indirect benefits, duplication of schemes, purchase of vehicles or equipment for officials, and funding for events, commercial ventures, or administrative infrastructure.
Reiterating strict adherence to these norms, the Governing Body underlined that DMF funds must be utilised exclusively for the welfare and development of mining-affected communities, particularly in resource-constrained village panchayats.
At the same time, the body acknowledged key gaps in the current guidelines and resolved to write to the Centre seeking inclusion of certain essential infrastructure works. It has proposed that the construction and repair of panchayat buildings and renovation of gymnasiums -- considered critical for community development in mining belts -- be brought under the DMF ambit.
Elected representatives present at the meeting backed the proposal, stating that such infrastructure plays a vital role in grassroots governance and social development in mining-affected regions.
The Chairperson assured that the matter would be formally taken up with the Ministry of Mines, while also reiterating that departments must strictly comply with guidelines and ensure that only eligible, community-centric proposals are submitted for DMF funding.