Antwerp Facets reports that the NMDC diamond mining company is conducting trials at the Panna diamond reserves in Madhya Pradesh. Diamond mining operations are geared to be restarted by mid-August.



NMDC Chairman Rana Som is currently assessing the production of the diamond mine in order to form an estimation regarding its commercial viability and set a date for resuming the diamond mining.



Som stated: "Right now the trial run is going on. I am going only for that. It will take a maximum of a month. I hope the diamond mining operations can be resumed before August 15."



In 2005, operations at the Panna diamond mine were suspended after failiure to obtain an environment clearance and agreement from a nearby wildlife sanctuary.



India's Steel Ministry has stated that the reopening of the diamond mine is a top priority for the government.