The Mines and Geology Department has assured priority to solve the problems of the brick manufacturers for the smooth and orderly running of the brick industry in the state. Mining Minister Dr. Pramod Kumar said that the department will work positively and cooperatively to resolve the issues of brick industry workers. Their problems will be addressed on priority basis and necessary support will be provided to run the industry.
On Tuesday, a meeting was held with representatives of Bihar Brick Manufacturers Association and departmental officers under the chairmanship of Minister Dr. Pramod Kumar in the secretariat office. Various issues and demands related to the brick industry were discussed in detail. Positive discussions took place, particularly regarding availability of coal, increase in coal quota, simplification of tax payment process, and facilitation of brick manufacturers in removal of silt from Ganga and its tributaries.
In the meeting, the Brick Manufacturers Association apprised the minister of the difficulties they are facing in procuring coal through the Bihar State Mining Corporation as before. The association also demanded that the Ministry of Coal, Central Government be requested to increase the coal quota to meet the needs of the brick industry. The minister assured of necessary action to resolve these issues.
There was extensive discussion on simplifying and facilitating the payment of mining related taxes for brick manufacturers. Consideration was given to developing a system where brick manufacturers could deposit the tax in a designated account and provide a payment receipt to the department. This will increase transparency in payment of tax and relieve brick manufacturers from unnecessary procedural difficulties. The meeting was attended by Mr. Onish Kumar Singh, Secretary of Mines and Geology Department, Mr. Krishna Marari Manu, President of Bihar Brick Manufacturers Association, Mr. Manish Kumar, Secretary of Nalanda District Brick Manufacturers Association, Mr. Satish Chauhan and other representatives of Brick Manufacturers Association.