Arcelor Mittal greenfield project under consideration: Koda

Ranchi, Dec 25 (UNI) The Madhu Koda Government today said the new conditions set by steel major Arcelor Mittal Steel for the proposed multi-billion Green Field project in the state are under consideration, but not at the cost of Jharkhand's interest.

Asserting that the government's policy was to encourage investors, Mr Koda sought to clear apprehensions on the Mittal issue saying priority accorded to state's interest should not be seen as deterrence to industrialisation.

In an exclusive interview to UNI, on the eve of completing 100 days in his office, the Chief Minister said an all party meeting would be held next month to arrive at a consensus on displacement and rehabilitation policy in the state.

The government will officially celebrate the occasion on December 28.

The Chief Minster said as industries were required for upliftment of economy, it was equally important to take care of the people affected in the process.

Asked about world famous Chiria mines and disputes with Steel Authority of India Ltd, Mr Koda said the company should take possession of the mines as per requirement and warned that it must leave the excess portion.

The Chief Minister said the SAIL should withdraw claim on excess land as it was required for other steel manufacturers like Mittal group.

On insurgency, Mr Koda said the ultras these days were more interested in making money and resorting to violence to make their presence felt.

He said the naxalite movement had certainly come in the way of development in the state and hoped that all their grievances could be addressed through negotiation.

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