The three social security schemes Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) launched in May this year together will benefit more than 50-crore people in unorganised sector in India. Union Minister for Steel and Mines Narendra Singh Tomar said that the three social security schemes will provide social security to more than 50 crore people in unorganised sector. Under APY there is an assurance of minimum Rs. 1000 pension to the poor. Prime Minister's Jan Dhan Yojana is a tool meant for the financial inclusion and over fifteen crore, eight lakh bank accounts have been opened in the country under the PM's Jan Dhan Yojana Scheme.
Referring to the mining sector, the Union Minister said that Exploration of Mining and research in steel are the thrust areas of his Government. He said, measures have been taken for preventing illegal mining and heavy penalties have been prescribed for illegal mining activities. The National Mineral Exploration Trust was set up and the mineral exploration works have been fast tracked in the country. Government is making every effort for protection of environment in mining areas. The royalty on mines has been increased to benefit all the states in India.
Reiterating the commitment of the NDA government for the welfare of the farmers the Union Minister said that Rs. 8,500 crore were allocated towards compensation to farmers for loss of crops. The government is committed for providing irrigation facilities to the fields and connecting villages by constructing pucca roads under the PM's Gramin Sadak Yojana programme.
The government has focused on the modernization of SAIl steel plants. A target for the production of 50 million tonnes of steel annually by SAIl has been set at an investment of Rs. 1.5 lakh crore by 2025. 'Make in India' concept of the Prime Minister is a value addition and creating more employment opportunities to the people. His foreign visits helped in establishing good relationship with world nations and friendly relations with India's neighbours, the minister said.