Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant seeks reopening of 153 iron ore mining leases

Goa Chief Minister <b>Pramod Sawant</b> pitched for the reopening of mines located within ecologically sensitive areas of the Western Ghats during the 4th conference of mining ministers held on Thursday. He stated that a scientific assessment should be conducted so that eligible mineral resources can be considered for auctions while protecting sensitive locations, noting that around <b>153 leases</b> fall within these eco-sensitive areas. Sawant also sought a solution from the union ministry of environment and forests given that Goa has limited land available for compensatory afforestation.