Section 17(3) in The Mines And Minerals (Development And Regulation) Act, 1957
(3)Where, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2), the Central Government undertakes [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, the Central Government shall be liable to pay [mineral concession fee or prospecting fee] [ Substituted by Act 38 of 1999, Section 15, for " prospecting fee" (w.e.f. 18.12.1999).] royalty, surface rent or dead rent, as the case may be, at the same rate at which it would have been payable under this Act, if such [reconnaissance, prospecting or mining operations] [Substituted by Act 38 of 1999, Section 15, for " prospecting or mining operations" (w.e.f. 18.12.1999). ] had been undertaken by a private person under a [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).]
