I wish to obtain a mining lease for limestone in Karnal; what is the procedure under the Mines and Minerals Act and what approvals are required?

Detailed Legal Analysis

To obtain a mining lease for limestone in Karnal, you must follow the procedure laid down under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and the relevant rules framed by the Government of Haryana.

Here are the steps and requirements involved in securing a mining lease:

• Application Submission: Submit an application for a mining lease to the State Government or the designated authority in a prescribed format, along with required documents such as:
• Proof of identity and address
• Ownership documents of the land (if applicable)
• Exploration report, if available
• Affidavit declaring the applicant's financial capacity
• Environmental clearance certificate (if applicable)
• Payment of Fees: Pay the requisite application fees as specified under the Haryana Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2002.
• Technical Scrutiny: The application will undergo technical scrutiny by the Mines Department to ensure it meets all regulatory requirements.
• Public Notice: The State Government will issue a public notice inviting objections or suggestions regarding the application, allowing stakeholders to express their views.
• Approval of the Mining Lease: If no objections are raised, or after addressing any objections, the State Government will grant the mining lease based on the following criteria:
• Compliance with the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.
• Adherence to the Haryana Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2002.
• Environmental clearance as per the Environment Protection Act, 1986, if applicable.
• Execution of Lease Deed: Upon approval, execute a mining lease deed that outlines the terms and conditions, including the duration, area, and royalty payments.
• Compliance with Conditions: Ensure compliance with the lease conditions, including environmental management and payment of royalties as per Section 9 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

It is advisable to consult with a legal expert or a mining consultant to navigate through the process efficiently and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the Haryana Mineral Policy to understand the local regulations pertaining to mining operations.