Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Monday sought the return of the land of coal mines in the state where mining has been abandoned.
He was interacting with a Parliamentary Committee led by Dr. (Prof.) Kirit Premjibhai Solanki here. The panel was on a two-day visit to the state.
Baghel briefed the panel on the steps undertaken for welfare of Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes in the state. This includes better facilities for education and health, and employment opportunities.
The aim is to bring positive changes in the social and economic condition and increase their income, he said.
He raised the issue of handing over to the state government the abandoned coal mines in Scheduled areas which had turned into water bodies. The state plans to promote tourism in these areas.
He further sought extension of the railway line up to Rowghat-Jagdalpur as part of transport facilities to people of Bastar. He called for resumption of trains passing through the state which have been stopped.
Baghel underlined the need for amendment in the provisions of the Forest Act as it is impeding development works in Scheduled dense forest areas. A total of 44 percent of the Chhattisgarh geography is made up of forests.
The panel appreciated the works undertaken by the government for the uplift of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
The Chief Minister honoured the members by presenting them with state ‘gamcha’ and insignia. The Parliamentary Committee visited the state to study the social and educational status of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.