Stand off between J'khand govt

Ranchi, Feb 25 (UNI) If the latest developments following the fresh initiatives between the Jharkhand government and steel major Mittal Arcelor group are any indications, then the rigidity taken so far by both the groups over the contentious Chiria mines might thaw, paving way for setting up of 12 million-tonne steel plant for which the MOU was signed in 2005.

The steel giant, which had been setting its eyes rivetted at the Chiria mines, the largest iron reserves in Asia, for its proposed Rs 40,000-crore green field project, had earlier said "no" to the government's offer for an alternate mine.

In a significant assertion by Chief Minister Madhu Koda during his recent New Delhi tour that the global steel player showed "keenness" to consider iron ore from sources other than the much talked-about Chiria mines, suddenly saw both the camps on toes with renewed vigour.

Early this week, the Chief Minister met senior officials of the company in New Delhi and pledged all support to Mittal's investments in the state as the company has also agreed to the state government's "earlier request of considering other areas for their iron ore requirement".

Senior government officials today reiterated that the company was serious about investing in Jharkhand.

The Chiria mines issue was a bone of contention between the state government and Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) with both fighting a legal battle over it in the Jharkhand High Court. The Chiria mines, located in West Singhbhum district, have 1.4 billion metric tonnes of iron ore.

Mr Koda said during his discussion with Mittal officials, the issue of iron ore reserves was raised without covering any specifics.

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