The Ministry of Mines is set to create a Program Management Unit (PMU) aimed at enhancing the impact and coordination of the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY). The move is focused on ensuring better welfare for communities and regions affected by mining activities, and improving collaboration with state governments for effective execution of the scheme.
Launched in 2025, the PMKKKY is designed to support development in mining-impacted areas, utilizing funds collected through District Mineral Foundations (DMFs) as mandated under the mining legislation. The Centre had earlier directed all states to integrate the PMKKKY within their respective DMF frameworks and implement the scheme accordingly.
In a statement published on its official site, the Ministry noted “The Ministry of Mines intends to engage a consulting agency to set up a Program Management Unit. The unit will work towards development and welfare efforts in mining-affected areas, and support coordination between state authorities and DMF districts for effective implementation of the scheme in line with the objectives laid out in the PMKKKY guidelines.”
Last year, the ministry revised the PMKKKY guidelines to expand the scheme’s outreach and ensure sustainable development in areas impacted by mining. These updated 2024 guidelines call for DMFs to align their goals with the Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks Programmes, directing focus and resources toward key development initiatives in those regions. As per the revised framework, at least 70% of DMF funds are to be exclusively used in areas directly impacted by mining operations, ensuring that the benefits of the scheme reach those most affected.
