Shimla, Aug. 30 -- Admitting to widespread violations of environmental and mining laws by cement factories operating in Himachal Pradesh, the state government on Friday assured the assembly of strict action against erring companies and committed to ensuring greater transparency and local impact in the use of corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds.

The assurance came from industries minister Harshwardhan Chauhan during the question hour, in response to concerns raised by Arki MLA Sanjay Awasthy regarding operations of cement plants in his constituency.

"I assure the House that strict action will be taken against companies involved in mining and environmental violations," Chauhan said. "I will personally meet the management of these ...