(Source: Pixabay)
YMAM Desk
New Delhi, June 25, 2025:
In a landmark decision aimed at mitigating decades-old fire and subsidence issues in Jharkhand’s Jharia coalfields, the Union Cabinet has approved a revised Jharia Master Plan (JMP) with a financial outlay of ₹5,940.47 crore. The updated plan prioritizes rehabilitation of affected families and promotes sustainable livelihood development.
Major Highlights of the Revised Jharia Master Plan
Addressing Fire and Land Subsidence on Priority
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the revised JMP to systematically handle fire and land subsidence. The phase-wise implementation will begin with the most vulnerable sites.
Rehabilitation with Economic Self-Reliance
The revised plan emphasizes economic empowerment of resettled families through:
* A Livelihood Grant of ₹1 lakh per family.
* Institutional credit access of up to ₹3 lakh.
* Inclusion of both Legal Title Holder (LTH) and Non-Legal Title Holder (Non-LTH) families.
Improved Resettlement Infrastructure
Resettlement sites will include comprehensive infrastructure and essential amenities such as:
* Roads, electricity, and water supply
* Sewerage systems
* Schools, hospitals, and community halls
* Skill development centres and common facilities
These will be implemented as per the recommendations of the Committee for Implementation of the Revised Jharia Master Plan.
Focus on Sustainable Livelihood
To promote long-term economic stability:
* A Jharia Alternative Livelihoods Rehabilitation Fund will be set up.
* Skill development will be provided in partnership with Multi Skill Development Institutes (MSDIs) in the region.
Significance of the Revised Plan
This updated Jharia Master Plan marks a shift toward a humane and holistic approach—not just relocating people, but enabling them with resources and opportunities for a better future. With decades of underground fires still posing serious risks to health and safety, this strategic move could be a turning point for over 1 lakh affected residents.