‘DMF FUNDS’
DMFs[District Mineral Foundation] are a non-profit trust set up in the country’s mining districts to “work for the interest and benefit of people and areas affected by mining-related operations”. The trusts were set up after an amendment in the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2015.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman recently instructed the state governments to use DMF (District
Mineral Foundation) funds to fight against COVID-19. This is being done to supplement medical
facilities that will help fight against Corona Virus
It was set up in those districts that were affected by mining works. The Foundation works towards the benefit and interest of the persons affected due to the mining activity. The Funds are allocated according to the rules of MMDR act.
Legislation :
The DMF funds were set up under Section 9B of Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) MMDR amendment act. The act says that every mine holder has to contribute 10% of their loyalty towards the funds.
Pradhan Mantri Khanij Khsetra Kalyana Yojana
The DMF funds are used to implement the scheme. The scheme focuses on safeguarding environment, health and economic conditions of the tribal people. This is because, most of the productive mines in the country are located in the tribal areas.
DMF Funds
The DMF funds so far were used for drinking water supply, health care, environment preservation,
women welfare, education, sanitation and skill development.