Section 17(2) in The Mines And Minerals (Development And Regulation) Act, 1957
(2)Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act, the Central Government, after consultation with the State Government, may undertake [reconnaissance, prospecting or mining operations] [ Substituted by Act 38 of 1999, Section 15, for " prospecting or mining operations" (w.e.f. 18.12.1999).] in any area not already held under any [mineral concession, prospecting license or mining lease] [ Substituted by Act 38 of 1999, Section 15, for " prospecting license or mining lease" (w.e.f. 18.12.1999).] and where it proposes to do so, it shall, by notification in the Official Gazette-(a)specify the boundaries of such area;(b)state whether [reconnaissance, prospecting or mining operations] [ Substituted by Act 38 of 1999, Section 15, for " prospecting or mining operations" (w.e.f. 18.12.1999).] will be carried out in the area; and(c)specify the mineral or minerals in respect of which such operations will be carried out.
