Cabinet Approves Revised Jharia Master Plan

On 25th June 2025, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the Revised Jharia Master Plan (JMP) to address persistent issues of fire, land subsidence, and the rehabilitation of affected families in the Jharia Coalfield region.

Key Points

Financial Outlay:The revised plan involves a financial outlay of Rs. 5,940.47 crore, with a phased approach prioritising the most vulnerable zones.
Livelihood Support:Resettled families will receive a Livelihood Grant of Rs. 1 lakh, and access to credit support up to Rs. 3 lakh through an institutional pipeline.
Skill Development Initiatives:Skill-training programmes will be launched to enhance employability of displaced individuals, in collaboration with Multi-Skill Development Institutes.
Inclusive Beneficiary Coverage:Both Legal Title Holders (LTH) and Non-Legal Title Holders (Non-LTH) will benefit from livelihood grants and credit access.
Infrastructure Development:Comprehensive infrastructure will be developed at resettlement sites, including roads, electricity, water, sewerage, schools, hospitals, and community halls.
Implementation Framework:Efforts will follow the guidelines of the Committee for Implementation of the Revised JMP, ensuring a humane and holistic rehabilitation process.
Livelihood Fund Creation:A Jharia Alternative Livelihoods Rehabilitation Fund will be created to promote self-reliance and income generation, aiming for long-term socioeconomic progress.