The Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) convened a high-level preparatory meeting on Thursday evening at the KAAC Secretariat’s CEM Block. The meeting, chaired by Chief Executive Member (CEM) Tuliram Ronghang, laid the groundwork for a comprehensive review of mining operations across the Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts, scheduled for July 7. The closed-door session saw the participation of key decision-makers including Executive Members Tiluttoma Hasnu and Prabhat Chandra Taro, Principal Secretary Mukul Kumar Saikia (IAS), senior-most Secretary Si-im Taro, various department secretaries, and senior officials from the forest, mining, and environment departments. Also present was the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, who serves as the Head of the Council.
The meeting aimed to streamline inter-departmental coordination and strategize policy improvements to strengthen the regulatory framework governing mineral extraction in the region. Officials reportedly reviewed the latest data on mining activity, identified gaps in enforcement, and discussed measures to enhance transparency and sustainability. CEM Ronghang, in his address, highlighted the importance of ensuring that economic activities do not come at the cost of environmental degradation or local livelihoods. “Our commitment is to lawful and eco-friendly resource extraction. We must strike a careful balance between development and the protection of our natural heritage,” he said, urging all departments to work collaboratively ahead of the upcoming review. The review scheduled for July 7 is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mining regulation in the hill districts. The KAAC leadership is likely to assess the legality of ongoing mining operations, the impact on forest land and water bodies, and the adequacy of compensatory and rehabilitative measures in place for affected communities.
The move comes amid rising public concern over unregulated mining and its fallout on local ecology, including deforestation, river pollution, and soil erosion. By convening this preparatory meeting, the Council signaled its readiness to not only enforce existing laws but also introduce policy reforms where needed. Environmental experts and civil society groups have welcomed KAAC’s proactive stance, noting that the Council’s approach could set a precedent for other autonomous and tribal councils across Northeast India. With the July 7 review on the horizon, stakeholders across the districts are watching closely to see how the KAAC turns its words into action in addressing the dual challenge of development and conservation.