THE government proposes to operationalise the much-awaited National Mineral Policy early next year. Union minister for mines BK Handique on Monday said that the amendments to Mines and Minerals (development and regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) will be introduced in Parliament by the winter session. Amendments to the Act is important to give effect to the provisiopns contained in the mineral policy. The Cabinet approved the new policy last year.