PTI reported that centre has sought Orissa government's active cooperation in facilitating smooth coal production, in the backdrop of a sharp fall in output in Mahanadi Coalfield areas and delay in operation of coal blocks allotted in the state.

A central team headed by coal secretary Mr Alok Perti held a discussion with state government officials to facilitate smooth coal production. The team also included chairman of Coal India Ltd Mr NC Jha and MCL chairman and MD Mr AN Sahay.

Mr Perti after the meeting told reporters that "We discussed issues like land acquisition, law and order and rehabilitation and resettlement. The discussion was on how to sort out the problems with the cooperation of the state government.”

Stating that the Centre was not against funding developmental activities in coal mining areas, Mr Perti said that "The schemes for implementing developmental activities should come from the district level. The ministry will certainly look into such proposals.”

Mr Perti said Orissa chief secretary Mr BK Patnaik had suggested monitoring of land acquisition and R&R issues at the Revenue Divisional Commissioner level. He added that "This is a good proposal and will help in overcoming hurdles before coal production.”

(Sourced from PTI)