Page 47 - PDP Manifesto 2018
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46 MANIFESTO : 2018
4.1.2 Mining
Mines and minerals are scarce national resources that must be sustainably harnessed, keeping in mind the needs of future generations. e mining sector is a signi cant trigger of economic growth. In 2016, the mining sector generated revenue of Nu. 258 million excluding taxes. e mining sector employs 2,065 Bhutanese. And the mining industry provides employment to local communities. Mineral exports also boost the nation’s export gures, helping balance of trade.
Currently, there are 24 active mines and 40 quarries covering a total land area of 3,320 acres. A big challenge for the mining
Pledges:
sector is that only 40% of the country has been geologically mapped which means that there is a lot more to do to sustainably harness the full potential of the mining sector. Mining is a vibrant economic sector but it could also bring about negative social, health and environmental impacts. As such, the PDP will exercise caution to exploit the mining sector and the wellbeing of the people would also be at the forefront. Currently, the most commonly exploited minerals include limestone, coal, graphite, gypsum, slate and dolomite. e mining sector is relatively underdeveloped and most mines are small operations.
We shall undertake geological mapping of crucial mineral resources.
We shall encourage value addition of our mineral resources by promoting industries that would use our mineral resources.
We shall enhance export of raw minerals where either value addition is not possible or it does not o er economic advantage.
We shall encourage our mining sector to create employment opportunities for Bhutanese.
We shall increase annual export of mining products by Nu. 1.5 billion.
The State Mining Corporation (SMC) will be strengthened to be a model mining company in the country and all proceeds from the SMC will go to the education ministry mainly to nance the central schools.
We shall ensure environment friendly mining practices and upscale green
PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC PARTY UNITY. STABILITY. PROSPERITY.
