Federation Of Indian Mineral ... vs Union Of India

The Supreme Court examined the amendments made to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, particularly focusing on Section 9B, which mandates the establishment of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) for the benefit of areas affected by mining operations. The Court held that the holder of a mining lease must contribute to the DMF in addition to paying royalty, with the contribution not exceeding one-third of the royalty amount. The judgment affirmed the legality of the amendments and the obligations imposed on mining leaseholders under the MMDR Act.