How do I get a mineral concession for granite quarrying near Vasco da Gama?

Detailed Legal Analysis

To obtain a mineral concession for granite quarrying near Vasco da Gama, you must follow a structured process governed by the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the relevant state regulations in Goa.

The process involves several steps and requirements, which include:

• Eligibility Criteria: Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements specified under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. This typically includes being a citizen of India and having the necessary financial and technical capability to operate a quarry.
• Application Submission: Submit an application for a mineral concession to the Directorate of Mines and Geology, Goa. The application must include:
  • Details of the applicant (name, address, etc.)
  • Technical feasibility report
  • Financial capability evidence
  • Proposed area for quarrying, with a map
  • Environmental clearance (if applicable)
• Environmental Clearance: Obtain an Environmental Clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) as per the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006. This is essential for quarrying activities.
• Payment of Fees: Pay the prescribed application fee as outlined in the Goa Minerals Concession Rules, 1985. Ensure that you check the latest fee structure on the Goa government’s official website.
• Approval Process: The Directorate will review the application and may conduct a site inspection. The approval process involves:
  • Scrutinizing the application for completeness
  • Consulting with various government departments
  • Issuing a notice for public objections, if necessary
• Award of Concession: If the application is approved, the mineral concession will be awarded, detailing the terms and conditions of quarrying. This will include the duration of the concession, obligations for environmental management, and payment of royalties.
• Compliance with Regulations: After receiving the concession, it is imperative to comply with all statutory requirements under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and the Goa Minerals Concession Rules, 1985, including the payment of royalty on extracted minerals.

It is advisable to consult with a legal expert or a professional familiar with mining law to ensure compliance with all necessary regulations and to facilitate the application process effectively.