The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the Group of Ministers recommendations for greater autonomy to the Central Bureau of Investigation.

It will become part of the affidavit to be submitted to Supreme Court. Government will file an affidavit before the Supreme Court by 3rd July.

The issue will come up for hearing on 10th July.

The GoM had recommended the setting up of a panel of retired judges to oversee the investigations of the agency, besides increased financial powers of its Director.

It has also recommended increase in financial powers of the CBI Director and a new mechanism for appointment of Director Prosecution which is at present a Law Ministry appointee.

The government is likely to tell the apex court about the Lokpal Bill which is under consideration of the Rajya Sabha.

The bill passed in the Lok Sabha says the CBI Director should be selected through a collegium of the Prime Minister, the Leader of Opposition of Lok Sabha and the Chief Justice of India.

The Union cabinet also gave the go ahead for an independent regulatory body for coal sector.

Coal regulatory bill to be introduced in Parliament and Pending passage of the Bill, coal regulator will be set up through an executive order.

The Union Cabinet also approved the proposal to continue subsidised helicopter services to Lakshadweep islands for another 5 years.