Socio-psychological approach in rehabilitation for sustainable coal mining: a case study of Rajmahal mine

摘要

? 2022, Books and Journals Private Ltd.. All rights reserved.Coal is a natural resource and is the main stay in energy security of the nation. Sustainable development of coal sector involves conservation of coal, mitigating environmental impact, inclusive development of local population etc. With induction of technology and economic scenario, need is felt for expansion of mining projects and such brown field development is facing the issue of rehabilitation of affected families due to various reasons. Despite addressing economic factors and environmental concerns, companies are facing challenge in rehabilitation of project affected families. Socio-psychological factors plays an important role in addressing the need of project affected families (PAFs) and convincing to shift to other site to ensure continuation of existing mining projects. Rajmahal mine is a prestigious mine of Easter Coalfields Limited in Jharkhand and is planning to expand its mining operations. Taljhari village has come very near to mine and the mine is facing problem of rehabilitation of PAFs and the mining operation is stopped. The village is mostly populated with the tribal families who are very hesitant to talk. A study has been made to understand the present status of mine and the challenges being faced. After analyzing the situation since 2019, it is felt that the psychological issues such as negative perception of people towards mining, threat in their mind such as loss of identity and cultural heritage and lack of trust among the villagers towards outsiders are major reasons hindering rehabilitation. While analyzing the problem, it has been felt that this is due to illiteracy, lack of knowledge and resistance to change in the villagers. The study will help in preparing a suitable model to improve happiness index of PAFs by identifying psychological factors affecting rehabilitation and analyzing response of PAFs.