The Karnataka government will take a decision on processing the application by Kudremukh Iron Ore Company (KIOCL)?on seeking a 116.55 hectare mining lease at Hosahalli in Chikanayakanahalli taluk of Tumkur district after it prepares a framework for mining iron ore and allied minerals in the State,?Chief Minister Siddaramaiah told the State Legislative Assembly on July 25. Replying to a call attention notice by JR Lobo?(Congress) Siddaramaiah said KIOCL?had applied for the mining lease in 2008.

However, part of the mining lease fell under forest land for which approval and clearance by the forest department was a must. The Supreme Court in its order in April this year had directed the government to frame guidelines for mining iron ore in the State.

The government will take a final decision on KIOCL?application after finalising the guidelines, Siddaramaiah said.