Discussion held on approved projects, revised DMF rules and development plans for mining-affected areas.
Published on: March 14, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
A meeting of the Governing Council of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) was held today in the Collectorate conference hall under the chairmanship of District Collector Jitendra Yadav.
The meeting was attended by Santosh Pandey, Bholaram Sahu, District Panchayat President Kiran Vaishnav, MLA representative Santosh Agrawal, and Divisional Forest Officer Ayush Jain along with other officials and members.
During the meeting, discussions were held on the 2025–26 action plan, amendments in DMF rules, and the identification of mining-affected areas within the district.
Information on New DMF Rules
Collector Jitendra Yadav informed the council that the Government of India has amended the rules governing the District Mineral Foundation. Under the revised provisions, only districts where mining activities take place will be eligible to receive DMF funds.
He further explained that areas within a radius of 15 kilometres from mining sites will be categorized as directly affected zones, while areas up to 25 kilometres will be considered indirectly affected zones. Based on these guidelines, a list of affected villages in Rajnandgaon district has been prepared and presented for approval.
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Priority Spending on Basic Services
The Collector stated that 70 percent of DMF funds will be utilized for high-priority sectors such as education, healthcare, drinking water, sanitation, environmental protection, and skill development. The remaining funds may be used for other essential infrastructure works.
He emphasized that DMF resources will be utilized with transparency while prioritizing development works that directly benefit rural communities in mining-affected areas.
Instructions for Timely Approval of Projects
The Collector also directed officials to complete the approval process for pending proposals and sanctioned projects before the end of the financial year. The objective is to ensure that planned development works are implemented efficiently and within the stipulated time.
The meeting was attended by public representatives, officials from various departments, and other members of the council.
