Publication of order in respect of processing fees of Final Mine Closure Plan as per provisions of Rule 24(1) of Mineral Conservation and Development (Amendment) Rules 2021 reg

## Report on the Ministry of Mines Order Regarding Mine Closure Plan Fees **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a new order issued by the Ministry of Mines, Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) pertaining to the fee structure for final mine closure plan documents. The order, effective immediately upon notification in the Official Gazette of India, mandates a non-refundable fee of Rupees Twenty-Five Thousand per square kilometer for the entire or part area of the mining lease for which the closure plan is submitted to IBM for approval. The report details the provisions of this order, its likely rationale, target audience, and potential implications. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview and analysis of the Ministry of Mines order (S.O. 414E) regarding the fee structure for final mine closure plans. The analysis is based solely on the provided policy text, focusing on its key provisions, intended impact, and implications for stakeholders. **3. Policy Overview:** * This is a *new* policy. * **Core Objective(s):** To establish a fee for the submission of final mine closure plan documents to the Indian Bureau of Mines for approval. **4. Background and Rationale:** * **New Policy:** The policy likely addresses the need for a standardized and revenue-generating mechanism associated with the review and approval process of mine closure plans. This may be driven by increasing administrative costs, the complexity of closure plan assessments, and the desire to ensure adequate resources are allocated to the responsible agency (IBM) for thorough review and oversight of closure processes. The fee may also act as a deterrent to frivolous or incomplete submissions, promoting more responsible mine planning and closure practices. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** * The policy establishes a mandatory non-refundable fee of Rupees Twenty-Five Thousand (₹25,000) per square kilometer. * This fee applies to the entire or part of the mining lease area covered in the submitted mine closure plan. * The fee is required for all final mine closure plans submitted to the Indian Bureau of Mines for approval. * The order takes immediate effect upon notification in the Official Gazette of India. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary target audience and stakeholders directly affected by this policy are: * Mining companies and leaseholders operating in India. * Individuals or entities responsible for preparing and submitting mine closure plans. * The Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), responsible for implementing and enforcing the order. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible agency/bodies:** The Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) is responsible for collecting the fee and processing the closure plans. The Controller General, IC, of IBM, is identified as the signatory of the order. * **Timelines or procedures:** The order is effective immediately upon notification in the Official Gazette of India. The procedure involves submitting the final mine closure plan document along with the non-refundable fee. The text does not specify the method of payment or the exact procedure for submission, but this information would likely be provided separately by the IBM. * The uploading and publishing of the order are managed by the Dte. of Printing at the Government of India Press and the Controller of Publications, Delhi. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** * **Likely Intended Outcomes:** * Generation of revenue for the Indian Bureau of Mines to support its oversight of mine closure processes. * Increased financial burden on mining companies for submitting closure plans. * Potentially, a greater emphasis on thoroughness and accuracy in closure plan preparation to avoid resubmissions and additional fees. * Streamlining of the mine closure plan review process through dedicated funding. **9. Conclusion:** The Ministry of Mines order regarding the fee structure for final mine closure plans introduces a significant financial implication for mining companies operating in India. The non-refundable fee, levied per square kilometer of the mining lease area, aims to generate revenue for the IBM, potentially enhance the quality of closure plans, and streamline the approval process. Mining companies need to be aware of this new requirement and incorporate it into their mine closure planning and budgeting processes. Further clarification on specific submission procedures and payment methods should be sought from the Indian Bureau of Mines.

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