Mining areas remain unchanged despite ₹3,700 crore DMFT fund: Babulal Marandi
Leader of Opposition launches scathing attack over misuse of DMFT funds in Chaibasa; vows to raise the issue in the Assembly and demands an impartial probe
Chaibasa: During a two-day visit to West Singhbhum, Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi raised serious questions regarding the utilization of District Mineral Foundation Trust (DMFT) funds in Chaibasa district. He stated that while Chaibasa received approximately ₹3,700 crore over the last decade, the expected development in mining-affected areas remains invisible.
Addressing a public meeting in Barayburu, Marandi remarked that the DMFT fund mechanism was established under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to foster development—covering education, health, drinking water, roads, and basic amenities—in mining-affected regions; however, the state government has completely failed to utilize these funds effectively.
He asserted that had the funds been utilized correctly, the landscape of the mining areas would have been completely transformed. Yet, villagers continue to struggle for drinking water, roads, and basic facilities. He alleged that corruption and mismanagement have prevented development work from materializing on the ground.
Marandi stated that he would vigorously raise this matter in the Assembly, demand accountability from the district administration and state government, and call for an impartial inquiry into DMFT fund expenditures to ensure the money is used solely for the development of the region and the welfare of mining-affected communities.
He further lamented that the problems he witnessed 25 years ago remain largely unchanged today, describing the situation as deeply unfortunate.
