Patna: The Bihar government has approved the District Mineral Foundation (Amendment) Rules, 2026, paving the way for development and welfare projects in areas affected by mining activities.
The revised framework is aimed at addressing local needs, improving basic infrastructure, supporting livelihoods and dealing with the environmental and social impact of mining.
Under the new system, District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds can be used for development and welfare schemes based on the specific requirements of mining-affected communities.
The focus will also extend beyond the period of active mining, with provisions aimed at supporting the redevelopment of affected areas and alternative livelihoods after mining activities come to an end.
10 Mining-Affected Districts to Benefit
The districts covered under the initiative include Rohtas, Gaya, Jamui, Aurangabad, Nawada, Banka, Bhojpur, Saran, Vaishali and Bhagalpur.
Development priorities can be determined according to the needs of individual areas. This means DMF resources can be directed towards facilities and projects considered most necessary in a particular mining-affected locality.
Schools, Drinking Water and Libraries in Focus
The amended rules place emphasis on improving basic facilities in mining-affected areas.
DMF funds can be used for projects involving drinking water, schools, libraries and low-cost gyms for young people, among other development needs.
The objective is to strengthen facilities for communities living in areas affected by mining and address infrastructure gaps through locally relevant projects.
Alternative Livelihoods After Mining Ends
A key component of the revised framework is the focus on sustainable livelihoods.
Families that depend directly or indirectly on mining activities may face difficulties finding employment and maintaining their income once mining operations stop. The new framework seeks to support the development of alternative and long-term livelihood opportunities for such affected families.
The aim is to help people transition towards income-generating activities that can continue even after mining operations cease.
Environmental and Social Impact to Be Addressed
The revised rules also emphasise measures to deal with the environmental and social impact of mining.
Development and redevelopment measures in affected areas can be planned according to local conditions, with DMF resources being linked to the needs of communities impacted by mining.
The approach is intended to address both immediate infrastructure requirements and longer-term redevelopment.
Plans to Be Based on Local Needs
The revised DMF framework gives greater emphasis to using mineral foundation funds for projects that directly address local requirements.
Instead of following a uniform approach across districts, development priorities can be determined according to local conditions and the needs of affected communities.
The government’s plan combines basic infrastructure, livelihood support and long-term redevelopment in mining-affected areas.
The implementation of these projects will determine how effectively DMF funds translate into improved facilities and alternative livelihood opportunities for affected communities.
