Jagdish Desai, Head-HSE of Vedanta’s Iron Ore Goa division while speaking at Metalogic PMS Webinar, elaborated about sustainability framework adopted at Sesa Goa Iron Ore Business, which includes robust mine closure planning, Structured reclamation of Mining sites, Biodiversity conservation, and holistic development of communities.
During the webinar on the topic of “Sustainable Mining- Waste Management”, Jagdish highlighted best in class sustainability practices at Vedanta’s Sesa Goa Iron Ore Business such as reclamation of Sanquelim Iron Ore Mine which is one of the role model for the systematic reclamation of site & biodiversity conservation along with community development programs for long terms benefits of the people.
Speaking at the Webinar, Jagdish Desai said “Robust environment management plans throughout operational lifecycle and Mine closure planning at the early stages is very crucial for sustainable mining operations which helps in adequate time and financial resources. We devise the comprehensive sustainability mechanism which helps to maximize the social and environmental benefits of mining and create maximum value for all stakeholders. We go beyond the Environmental & Social norms to ensure the best in class Environment management practices & Socio-economic upliftment of communities. We believe Stakeholder engagement is another important facet of sustainable Business growth and our constant endeavor is to create win-win situation.”
Jagdish highlighted best in class sustainability practices at Vedanta’s Sesa Goa Iron Ore Business such as reclamation of Sanquelim Iron Ore Mine which is one of the role model for the systematic reclamation of site & biodiversity conservation along with community development programs for long terms benefits of the people.
Mr. Desai also highlighted the Vedanta’s efforts in adopting best practices and advanced technology in every aspect of mining operation including exploration, blasting, beneficiation, and Logistics. He emphasized that companies should go beyond compliance requirements and adopt various international best standards like IFC guidelines and ICMM principles to strengthen sustainability mechanism.
Glenn Kalavampara, Secretary of GMOEA said, “The Goa mining industry has had a rich legacy of contributing to the overall socio- economic development of the state as well as communities around as proactive initiatives. These are well documented as well. The efforts of many major companies in Goa have initiated voluntarily exemplary efforts & increased benchmarks towards sustainable mining proactively. In fact, such efforts yielded fruits even before the statutory regulations were put in place. Some of the projects spearheaded have been appreciated world over, Such as reclamation efforts at Sanquelim mines of Vedanta Sesa Goa Iron Ore. Mineral foundation of Goa an voluntary effort spearheaded by mining companies from Goa over 20 years back have now been initiated by national Mining act in the last 5 years.”
