Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri G Kishan Reddy, launched the ‘Aspirational DMF Programme’ at the National DMF Workshop in New Delhi. The new initiative is designed to align District Mineral Foundation (DMF) planning with the government’s Aspirational District and Block Programmes.
This programme promises to bring targeted development to India’s most underserved and mining-affected regions.
What is the Aspirational DMF Programme?
The programme’s core aim is convergence. It links DMF initiatives with ongoing efforts under the Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) and Aspirational Blocks Programme (ABP).
This alignment ensures that DMF funds support improvement in critical areas like health, education, nutrition, and livelihoods—sectors that define the human development index of mining-impacted communities.
As per the Press Information Bureau, operational guidelines were released to help officials integrate DMF actions with local needs more strategically.
The workshop was a high-level event attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Mines, state DMF nodal officers, and representatives from 152 DMFs. A total of 62 district collectors were present, sharing insights and challenges.
In his keynote, Minister Reddy praised the role of DMFs in transforming mining-affected lives over the past decade. He called DMFs a true reflection of co-operative federalism and the “whole of government” approach envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He emphasized that DMFs must be treated as missions to bring saturation of development funds to every household in mining zones.
DMFs: From Fund to Force for Change
Minister of State for Coal & Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, highlighted that DMF is not just a financial mechanism. It is a transformational tool to bring mineral wealth to the grassroots.
He pointed to how DMF-funded projects are already catalyzing change in areas like healthcare, skilling, rural development, and infrastructure.
States are encouraged to deploy funds for impactful, community-centered initiatives rather than scattered or symbolic projects.
Showcasing Impact: Coffee Table Book 2.0
One of the highlights of the event was the release of the second edition of the Coffee Table Book. This publication showcased transformative DMF-funded projects across India.
From upgraded primary health centers to smart classrooms and sustainable livelihood hubs, the book revealed how DMFs are helping mining communities thrive.
Transparency, Innovation, and Accountability
The workshop had several thematic sessions. District Magistrates led discussions on transparency in DMF operations, innovative practices, and the need for capacity building.
Officials from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) offered insights on audit and accountability frameworks to ensure proper fund utilization.
The idea was clear—robust oversight mechanisms will boost trust and efficiency in DMF implementation.
Recognizing Excellence Across States
Several states received special recognition:
- Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Goa — for adopting the revised PMKKKY 2024 guidelines into state DMF rules.
- Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh — for timely closure of audit reports and pushing transparency.
These recognitions set a benchmark for other states to emulate.
Handloom Haat Exhibition: A Grassroots Celebration
Earlier in the day, Shri G Kishan Reddy inaugurated the DMF Exhibition at Handloom Haat, Janpath. The exhibition will run until July 15, 2025.
It features products from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) supported by DMF funds. Minister Reddy interacted directly with SHG members and explored how DMF investments are fueling rural entrepreneurship.
The exhibition provides a platform for SHGs to display local crafts, connect with buyers, and inspire similar initiatives nationwide.
Key Takeaways from the Event
- Launch of Aspirational DMF Programme to align with ADP and ABP goals
- Operational guidelines released for strategic DMF planning
- 152 DMFs and 62 collectors participated in the workshop
- Recognition of states adopting PMKKKY 2024 guidelines
- DMF Coffee Table Book 2.0 launched showcasing impact stories
- DMF Exhibition inaugurated to support SHGs
Conclusion: A Strong Step Toward Viksit Bharat
The launch of the Aspirational DMF Programme marks a new phase of people-first development in mining-affected areas.
It focuses on transparency, accountability, and maximum grassroots impact. The Ministry of Mines has laid out a clear vision to use DMF as a pillar for building a Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
With strategic convergence and community-driven planning, DMF is set to become a beacon of hope for millions living in resource-rich but underdeveloped regions.