The Hindu Business Line : Bengal, Jharkhand consider policy framework for sharing minerals

WEST Bengal and Jharkhand will jointly approach the Centre soon for putting in place a policy framework that would enable both to share their mineral resources for "mutual interest".

The Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Mr Arjun Munda, on Thursday held an hour-long discussion in this regard, and related matters, with his West Bengal counterpart, Mr Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee.

Addressing a press conference jointly after the meeting, Mr Munda said both the States would cooperate for mutual economic growth and prosperity.

Jharkhand would be keen to share its mineral resources with West Bengal after meeting the needs of industry in that State. Other issues discussed included influx of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, sharing of river waters and the problem of Naxalites and Maoists.

"We had very fruitful discussions and if we can carry this forward, it will auger well for the economies of both our States," Mr Munda said.

Mr Bhattacharjee said there was a proposal to set up a council of the four mineral-rich States of Jharkhand, West Bengal, Orissa and Chhattisgarh.

He said Centre's intervention would be sought to facilitate the sharing of mineral resources by these States.

He agreed that the farm sector in Jharkhand should get more water for meeting its needs.

The Chief Minister said West Bengal would not ask for anything that would hamper the economic interests of Jharkhand. He clarified that the State has been requested to part with its mineral resources only after meeting its own requirements.

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