Two New Copper Deposits Found in Giridih
Two new copper mines have been discovered in Ambadih and Munda Devta areas of Giridih, Jharkhand, following earlier findings in Barganda. Preliminary surveys by MECL and the Geology Directorate indicate copper and base metal reserves. Detailed exploration is underway to estimate the reserves. Once confirmed, the blocks will be prepared for auction, making it a key mining zone after Ghatshila.
Key Issues to Be Discussed at Eastern Zonal Council Meet
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will chair the Eastern Zonal Council meeting in Ranchi on 10th July. Key topics include asset division between Jharkhand and Bihar, mineral auctions, audit of DMFT funds, Mayurakshi Dam dispute, crimes against women and children, school dropout rates, and malnutrition among girls. Reports from states on past decisions and actions taken will also be reviewed.
CCL’s Amrapali Coal Mining Kicked Off with Puja
Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) has started the third phase of coal production at Amrapali Project with Caliber JV, targeting 139 million tonnes of coal and 4135 lakh cubic metres of overburden in 8 years. The project involves a Rs. 8600 crores investment.
OBCs Demanded 27% Quota in Coal Companies
OBC leaders met National Backward Classes Commission Chairman Hansraj Ahir at CCL headquarters, demanded 27% reservation for OBCs in all Coal India companies. The memorandum also called for appointing OBC liaison officers in every CCL area, job provisions for dependents of medically unfit workers, and OBC representation in all CCL committees to ensure fair participation and opportunities.
ED Raids Ex-MLA Amba Prasad, Family and Associates Over Mining Fraud
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided ex-MLA Amba Prasad, her father Yogendra Sao, and associates in Ranchi and Hazaribagh over fraud, extortion, and illegal mining. Rs. 15 lakh in cash was seized. Linked to 16 FIRs, the accused also face charges of leading violent mobs and obstructing NTPC work. Documents and assets related to illegal sand trade were recovered.
Nationwide Strike on 9th July Against Anti-Labour Policies
Central trade unions and the Samyukt Kisan Morcha have called a nationwide strike on 9th July to protest the Centre’s alleged anti-worker and anti-farmer policies. Demands include scrapping four labour codes, restoring the old pension scheme, Rs. 26,000 minimum wage, MSP guarantee, and halting privatization. The strike marks the beginning of a larger movement for workers’ and farmers’ rights.
Villagers Refused NOC for Banhardi Coal Project
Villagers of Nimia Tola held a Gram Sabha opposing the proposed Banhardi coal project, citing violations of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) 2006. Reaffirming their earlier decision, they refused to grant NOC for the use of forest and community land. Locals demanded no repeated meetings and submitted a formal objection to authorities, maintaining their stance against displacement and forest rights violations.
Protest at Alok Steel Ended After Compensation, Job Assurance
A 30-hour protest at Alok Steel Plant in Ramgarh ended after a tripartite agreement granted Rs. 5 lakh compensation and a job to the family of deceased contract worker Asho Devi. She died following chest pain during work. The plant management, police, and protestors reached a settlement, leading to the removal of her body and conclusion of the agitation.
Land Sinked with Loud Noise in Dhanbad
A sudden land subsidence near the Maa Ambe outsourcing project in BCCL’s Katras area, Dhanbad, damaged five houses in Keshalpur Munda Dhowra. Luckily, no injuries were reported. MP Chandraprakash Choudhary visited the site, slammed BCCL for neglecting rehabilitation, and vowed to raise the issue in Parliament. Locals, living in fear, demand immediate relocation and safety measures.
Three Jharkhand Officials Faced Action Over Land Irregularities
The Jharkhand government has initiated departmental action against three administrative officers for alleged irregularities in land acquisition and transfer. Those named include Satish Chandra (former District Land Acquisition Officer, Hazaribagh), Vivek Kumar Mehta, and Sanjay Kumar Singh (both former Circle Officers, Barhi). The personnel department has issued orders for proceedings following findings of misconduct in official duties.
