K'taka CM calls for review of Mining Policy

Bangalore, Jun 29 (UNI) Terming the mining policy as non-beneficial for the Centre, State and the people, Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa today urged the Union Government to review it.

Participating at a 'Phone-in Programme' organised by Doordarshan Kendra here, Mr Yeddyurappa ruled out protection to those involved in illegal mining in Karnataka.

Stating that the Mining Policy, formulated by the Centre, was not beneficial either to the government or the industry, Mr Yeddyurappa called for a thorough discussion and review of the same.

He also said action would be taken against those involved in illegal mining. ''Nobody should have any doubt about our government regarding this issue,'' he said.

Referring to his poll promise on free power supply to the farmers, Mr Yeddyurappa said the government was working out a strategy on the issue.

''Free power cannot be given to all sections of the farmers. It will be restricted to those depending on dry farming,'' he added.

About fertilizer shortage, Mr Yeddyurappa said he had decided to take an all-party delegation to the Centre to press the Union Government to fulfill its commitment.

''A delegation to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will be taken to New Delhi on July 2,'' the Chief Minister said.

Expressing concern over lack of infrastructure facilities in rural areas, leading to youths migrating to urban centres, he said his government had decided to check this phenomenon by creating suitable and adequate infrastructure facilities.

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