Dong Lin, a miner and NPC deputy from Shanxi province. [Photo/ Shanxi Daily]

Dong Lin, a miner from Shanxi province, is attending the National People's Congress (NPC) and the National Committee of the Chinese People‘s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) this year.

In order to ensure his proposals have maximum impact during the two sessions, he has been making rigorous preparations.

"It is my duty as an NPC deputy to speak for all miners. I’ve written down their advice and found a lot of relevant information from the internet," said Dong, during an interview on Feb 27.

Most of his proposals are aimed at improving living standards and the working environment of miners.

"Many of my comrades wish to retire early. After a long-time working in atrocious conditions, their physical health is poorer than that of their peers. Some countries already have policies which allow miners to retire 10 to 15 years earlier. I hope our government can also take that into consideration," he said.

During the past few years, Dong has made various proposals regarding the income, life insurance and training of miners.

"My father and grandfather were also miners. I hope all miners can work and live with health and happiness," he added.

Dong also expressed his view that he would try to speak for the interests of many people, not only miners and would discuss a wide range of issues.