Date:27/11/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/11/27/stories/2007112754750700.htm

New Delhi

‘Notify royalty rates on minerals soon’

Special Correspondent

JAIPUR: Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje has called upon the Centre to quickly notify the new rates of royalty on major minerals as recommended by a study group set up to review the rates.

In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Ms. Raje said the Union Ministry of Mines had constituted a study group on revision of royalty rates and rent on major minerals other than coal, lignite and sand for stowing on August 24, 2006. Rajasthan is one of the members of the study group.

The group has since submitted its report to the Ministry. Ms. Raje requested that the Ministry be directed to notify the rates of royalty on major minerals without delay in keeping with the group’s recommendations. Ms. Raje said the revenue from the collection of royalty on minerals contributed substantially to the State’s non-tax receipts.