Shillong: The Jaintia Coal Miners and Dealers Association (JCMDA) on Tuesday organised a public rally titled “Coal Rally: Voice of Livelihoods” to press for a scientific mining policy tailored to Meghalaya’s distinct land tenure system and geological conditions. The protesters said the move was aimed at safeguarding the livelihoods of the thousands of families in the Jaintia Hills who depend on coal extraction and related trade.
Organisers emphasised that any mining policy for the region must recognise local land rights and the area’s complex geology, and should promote systematic, regulated mining practices that reduce risks to workers, communities and the environment. The rally sought to draw attention to the economic consequences for miners, dealers and dependent households if policy decisions ignore these local realities.
Reports said the demonstration drew participation from community members and local leaders, with Khliehriat MLA Kyrmen among those mentioned in coverage. Speakers at the event urged policymakers to engage with stakeholders from the Jaintia Hills and to design regulations that balance safety, sustainability and the protection of livelihoods.
By staging the “Coal Rally: Voice of Livelihoods,” the JCMDA aimed to shift the debate toward a locally informed, scientific approach to mining regulation that preserves income for coal-dependent families while addressing geological and tenure-related challenges in Meghalaya.
Original Source: https://eastmojo.com/meghalaya/2026/04/08/meghalaya-jaintia-miners-dealers-hold-coal-rally-voice-of-livelihoods/
Category: Free Digest,Meghalaya,News,Northeast News,Recent Top News
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Publish Date: 2026-04-08 12:05:00
