IANS reported that an association of leading mine owners in Goa Monday admitted to illegal mining and exports of iron ore in Goa, but expressed concern over a possible ban on shipments of the mineral sent abroad.

In a written statement here, members of the Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association, which represents the bulk of the several thousand crore worth mining industry in Goa, has also said that the export boom to China had resulted in a spurt of illegal mining, thanks to traders and fly by night operators.

Mr PK Mukherjee MD of Sesa Goa Limited said “The association doesn't deny that there are certain illegalities in mining sector and in particular in the spectrum of exports in this state. However, a blanket ban on the industry can never be a solution since it will lead to a destabilization of Goa's economic apparatus as the mining industry in Goa contributed approximately 35% of the state's Gross Domestic Product.”

Mr Mukherjee called for a strict monitoring apparatus and systemic changes to ensure that those guilty of illegal mining be brought to book.

The central government appointed Justice M.B. Shah Commission is expected to submit its report on illegal mining in the state in December.

Goa exported 54 million tons of iron ore in the last fiscal from its nearly 100 operational open cast iron ore mines.

(Sourced from IANS)