Daijiworld Media Network – Bangalore (SB)

Bangalore, Aug 4: Centre has clarified that the state government has no right to ban export of iron ore and suggested to form special team under home ministry to curb illegal mining.

Union minister for mines B K Handique in a letter addressed to Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa has issued the clarification in this regard and affirmed that it is the Centre which has sole right to deal with the issue of export ban. The decision will be taken according to the import and export policy at the centre, he stated.

He affirmed that the state government has no role to play in the issue of export ban of iron ore. Only production, marketing and transportation of the iron ore comes under the purview of the state. Though state has banned export of iron ore from the 10 ports in the state, the centre has taken no decision in this regard, he states and goes on to question the decision of the state to issue a ban on the export.

Handique has further suggested the state to form a special team under the home ministry in the state to curb illegal mining.