In a significant policy move aimed at resolving a century-old crisis, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to the Revised Jharia Master Plan (JMP).
The plan seeks to tackle the persistent issues of underground coal fires, land subsidence, and the rehabilitation of families affected in the Jharia Coalfield region of Jharkhand.
With a sanctioned financial outlay of Rs 5,940.47 crore, the renewed strategy emphasises both safety and sustainable development, marking a pivotal shift towards human-centric resettlement. The Cabinet has approved a phased implementation approach, starting with the most vulnerable zones, ensuring timely relief and structural safety.
One of the standout components is the emphasis on livelihood restoration. Affected families—both Legal Title Holders and Non-Title Holders—will receive a Rs 1 lakh Livelihood Grant, alongside institutional access to Rs 3 lakh credit support. Skill development programs, facilitated in collaboration with Multi-Skill Development Institutes, will be rolled out to promote economic self-reliance.
Additionally, the plan envisions the development of comprehensive infrastructure at resettlement sites, including roads, electricity, drinking water supply, schools, hospitals, and community facilities. A Jharia Alternative Livelihoods Rehabilitation Fund will be instituted to further bolster income-generation opportunities.
The Revised Jharia Master Plan reaffirms the government’s commitment to environmental restoration and socio-economic upliftment, setting a model for rehabilitation in disaster-affected areas.
