Mineral resources refer to the various naturally occurring substances found on Earth that have economic value. These resources are essential for modern society, as they are used in the production of goods and services. The extraction and utilization of mineral resources have a significant impact on the environment and local communities.
Minerals are typically divided into metallic and non-metallic categories. Metallic minerals include ores of metals such as iron, copper, gold, and silver, while non-metallic minerals include industrial minerals such as limestone, salt, and gypsum.
India is a mineral-rich country, with a vast reserve of metallic and non-metallic minerals. The country is the world’s largest producer of mica and ranks among the top producers of coal, iron ore, bauxite, and chromite. India is also a major producer of several non-metallic minerals, such as limestone, dolomite, and kaolin.
The mining and extraction of minerals have a significant impact on the environment. Mining can result in soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and pollution of air and water. The use of heavy machinery and explosives can also cause noise pollution and physical damage to the landscape.
To mitigate the environmental impact of mining, the government of India has implemented several regulations and guidelines. The Mineral Conservation and Development Rules were introduced in 1988 to regulate the mining industry and ensure the sustainable use of mineral resources. The government has also established the Indian Bureau of Mines, which is responsible for regulating mining activities and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
Apart from the environmental impact, the mining industry also has a significant impact on the local communities. The displacement of communities, loss of livelihoods, and social disruption are common issues faced by communities in the vicinity of mining activities. To address these issues, the government of India has introduced several policies and programs, such as the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana, which aims to provide social and economic benefits to the affected communities.
