A1961-1965
B1966-1970
C1971-1975
D1976-1980
Answer:
C. 1971-1975
Read Explanation:
Nationalisation of Coal Mines in India
Background
The nationalisation of coal mines in India was a significant policy decision aimed at bringing the crucial coal sector under government control for better management, resource allocation, and worker welfare.
Prior to nationalisation, the coal industry was largely in private hands, leading to concerns about inefficient extraction, unfair labour practices, and a lack of strategic planning.
Phased Nationalisation Process
The process of nationalising coal mines occurred in phases:
First Phase: The first major step was taken on January 31, 1972, with the nationalisation of 214 wholesale coking coal mines. This was done through the Coking Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1971. The objective was to ensure a steady supply of coking coal for the steel industry and to improve safety and working conditions.
Second Phase: Subsequently, on May 1, 1973, the government nationalised 711 non-coking coal mines through the Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1972. This expanded the scope of nationalisation to cover almost all the coal-bearing areas in the country.
Government Control and Objectives
The nationalisation aimed to achieve several key objectives:
To ensure systematic and scientific development of coal resources.
To increase coal production to meet the growing energy demands of the nation.
To improve the working and living conditions of mine workers.
To regulate the distribution and price of coal effectively.
To prevent the wastage of coal and conserve resources.
Post-Nationalisation Era
Following nationalisation, the management of these mines was entrusted to public sector undertakings (PSUs). Initially, the Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) managed the coking coal mines, and later, the Coal India Limited (CIL) was formed in 1975 to manage all nationalised coal mines (both coking and non-coking).
CIL has since become one of the largest coal producers in the world.