Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi today chaired a meeting of Parliamentary Consultative Committee of Ministry of Coal today in Parliament House to discuss the status of compliance of Environmental Norms by Coal or Lignite Companies. Minister of State for Coal Raosaheb Patil Danve also participated in the meeting.<br />''<br />''In his remarks, Mr. Joshi informed the committee members that mining operations in coal and lignite mines are carried out with due regard to safety, environment protection, and sustainability. He said, Environment Protection during mining activities is one of the key thrust areas of coal or lignite PSUs, which ensures that various statutory provisions prescribed in environmental rules and regulations are adhered to and appropriate environmental standards are maintained in and around mining areas.<br />''<br />''Coal Secretary briefed the committee about creation of a Sustainable Development Cell SDC in the Ministry to advise, mentor, plan and monitor environmental sustainability of coal mines. He also informed the committee that the Ministry and Coal and lignite companies have been preparing reports, booklets, and videos on the status of environmental sustainability and best environmental practices. Also, Star rating of Mines has been adopted to incentivize self-environmental compliances.<br />''<br />''During the meeting, a presentation was made by Joint Secretary, Ministry of Coal during which it was informed that the status of environmental compliance of big mines is monitored by Secretary Coal at intervals and SDC also monitors the status at regular intervals. In consultation of coal or lignite PSUs, a roadmap has been drawn for plantation, mine water utilization, development of eco-parks, energy efficiency measures, etc. Initiatives have also been taken to explore use of LNG to reduce carbon footprint. Also, a programme for third-party environmental audit of mines and ecological studies by engaging reputed Institutions has been chalked out.<br />''<br />''Director (Technical), Coal India Limited also made a detailed presentation on the compliance of environmental norms in CIL mines. He submitted that coal mines are operating with various environmental permits and are complying with prescribed environmental conditions and norms.<br />''<br />''During the discussion, all Committee Members appreciated the efforts being undertaken by the Ministry and coal and lignite PSUs towards environment care and benefits of the society. The members acknowledged the good works especially third party audit, gainful utilization of mine water, promoting renewables, mine tourism, and OB to sand initiatives, and made valuable suggestions for further improvement in environmental management in mining areas. It was suggested by committee members that public representatives should be consulted more frequently by Coal Companies on the issues like environment protection, social welfare, and productivity.<br />''<br />''<br />