Shillong, October 14: The Meghalaya government on Wednesday marked the 10th anniversary of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF), highlighting its role in ensuring that mining-affected communities benefit directly from development initiatives.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, addressing the programme, said the DMF had been successfully implemented over the past decade to ensure that benefits generated from mining reach people and communities affected by mining-related activities. Sangma said projects worth ₹181.38 crore have been taken up under the DMF, covering 923 projects across various districts of Meghalaya. The projects span sectors including education, healthcare, sanitation, water supply, social welfare and other essential services.
The Chief Minister stressed the need to move from an extractive economy towards one that creates greater value and long-term stability. He said revenues generated through mining, including DMF funds and royalties, must be invested wisely to strengthen communities, regenerate the economy and support sustainable development. “Mining is important, not only in terms of DMF but also in terms of livelihood it generates,” Sangma said, adding that the state would continue exploring better and more flexible approaches to mining that allow miners to generate livelihoods and revenue.
Mining and Geology Secretary B.S. Sohliya said the DMF was introduced to benefit people and areas affected by mining activities and to ensure that benefits arising from mineral resources contribute towards local development. He said development must take into consideration the growth of communities, with investments in areas such as education, healthcare, water supply, infrastructure and sustainable livelihoods.
The District Mineral Foundation was established under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, following amendments made in 2015. The fund provides a mechanism for directing resources towards developmental interventions based on local priorities and improving the quality of life of communities affected by mining.
During the programme, beneficiaries from different districts shared their experiences and highlighted the impact of DMF-supported projects on their lives and communities. A presentation showcasing DMF projects implemented across Meghalaya was also made, while a coffee table book documenting interventions carried out under the foundation was released. East Khasi Hills District was also recognised as the Best Performing DMF District.
The programme also recognised students who participated in quiz, essay-writing and painting competitions aimed at creating awareness among young people about natural resources, mining and development. Prizes were distributed by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries. The event was attended by Sangma, Sohliya, Director of Mineral Resources M.B. Tongper and officials of the Mining and Geology Department, among others.
