The two-day National District Mineral Foundation (DMF) summit concluded in New Delhi, with Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy saying that the District Mineral Foundation reflected Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision and that the government remained committed to the welfare of mining-affected communities. The valedictory session underlined a focus on transparency, accountability and inclusive development in regions affected by mining. Officials were urged to dedicate efforts to improving villages near mining areas and to ensure that benefits reach local populations.

Deliberations concentrated on the DMF portal and data-driven planning, including a demonstration of DMF Portal two point zero to support real-time monitoring and greater transparency, and states shared field experiences to inform practice. Participants stressed the importance of baseline surveys and impact assessment and of saturating priority sectors under the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana for targeted interventions. Attention was also given to measures to expedite fund release, strengthen governance through audits and disclosures, and enhance community participation in project selection and oversight.

The concept of model districts and a ranking framework was advanced to promote performance-based accountability and improved outcomes, and a vision was reiterated to develop at least one Modern Village in every district as a benchmark of progress. The Secretary of the Ministry of Mines underlined the need to align district-level planning with NITI Aayog's model district approach to ensure structured and measurable development in mining-affected areas. He emphasised close coordination among Centre, State and district administrations to secure efficient and accountable utilisation of DMF funds.

The summit provided a platform for sharing best practices and strengthening Centre-State coordination to improve implementation of DMF initiatives, with priority given to schemes that produce visible and positive improvements in people's lives. Senior leadership called for sustained, community-centric planning and outcome-driven implementation to reinforce governance and deliver tangible benefits to mining-affected populations. The closing remarks reiterated that dedicated district-level efforts are required to achieve impactful and sustainable development on the ground.