Illegal Iron ore worth Rs 1,900 crore extracted in Goa: CAG

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report has pointed out that overall Rs 1,900 crore worth illegal extraction of iron ore was reported in the state between 2009-16 in violation of the mining plan and environment clearances (ECs). The performance audit on systems and controls in collection of minerals receipts has revealed a number of system and compliance deficiencies, the CAG report which was tabled on the floor of the House today mentioned. "We observed violation of the provision of the Acts and Rules made for regulation of mining



operation in the State. "Violating the provisions of the MCD (Mineral Conservation and Development) rules and MC (Mineral Concession) rules the lessees had extracted minerals valued Rs 1,529.64 crore in excess of the mining plan," the report said. "The lessee had also extracted minerals valued Rs 374.99 crore in excess of quantity allowed under environment clearances," it added. CAG has said the audit team checked 38 cases to ascertain whether the environment clearances limit has been observed by lessee during the period from 2009-16.