Mr BK Handique minister of mines and minister of development of North Eastern Region have said that an S&T Project titled Study of Pollution level in Asbestos Mines and processing plants in Rajasthan was undertaken by Indian Bureau of Mines a subordinate office of the Ministry.

The Study recommended that subject to imposition of safeguards on pollution level in work environment, the ban imposed on grant and renewal of mining leases and expansion of mining may be lifted.

Mr Handique informed the Lok Sabha that he recommendations of the Study have been examined in consultation with all stake holders. Some stake holders have suggested that asbestos mining can be permitted with appropriate safeguards.

IBM in consultation with Central Pollution Control Board and Directorate General of Mines Safety has been asked to work out these safeguards which have not been finalized yet. At present the ban on grant/renewal of mining leases of asbestos has not been lifted.