Dumka DMFT charts roadmap for skill development, jobs and infrastructure in mining-affected areas
Kumar Prabhat
Dumka
A high-level meeting of the District Mineral Foundation Trust (DMFT) Governing Council in Jharkhand’s Dumka district has outlined a comprehensive strategy to strengthen skill development, employment generation and infrastructure in mining-affected regions, with a strong focus on ensuring that local communities benefit from the district’s mineral wealth.
The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Magistrate Abhijit Sinha, reviewed ongoing development initiatives and discussed future priorities for improving socio-economic conditions in mining-impacted areas. Member of Parliament Nalin Soren and MLAs Basant Soren, Hemlal Murmu, Dr. Louis Marandi, Alok Soren and Devendra Kunwar participated in the deliberations.
Public representatives stressed that DMFT funds should be utilised strictly in line with government guidelines to maximise benefits for residents of mining-affected villages. A key focus was on equipping local youth with industry-relevant skills to improve their employability in coal mining and mineral-based industries.
MP Nalin Soren called for the establishment of quality educational institutions and skill training centres in mining belts, while MLA Basant Soren highlighted the need to introduce specialised, industry-oriented courses in local Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). The proposals aim to create a skilled local workforce, expand employment opportunities and reduce migration.
The meeting also highlighted the need to strengthen essential services, with MLA Hemlal Murmu advocating improved healthcare, education, drinking water facilities and skill training for families displaced by mining projects. Dr. Louis Marandi urged strict adherence to DMFT norms on fund allocation and sought immediate measures to address drinking water shortages.
Officials presented details of several completed and ongoing DMFT-funded projects, including upgraded Anganwadi centres, digital classrooms in government schools, sanitation initiatives for adolescent girls, renovated tribal hostels, X-ray facilities at community health centres and road infrastructure works.
The council reiterated that DMFT resources would continue to prioritise healthcare, education, drinking water, sanitation, women and child welfare, agriculture, skill development and essential infrastructure under the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana.
