(The Gist of PIB) Union Environment Minister asks States to impose and enforce strict laws to curb illegal Sand Mining


(THE GIST OF PIB) Union Environment Minister asks States to impose and enforce strict laws to curb illegal Sand Mining

[October-2020]


Union Environment Minister asks States to impose and enforce strict laws to curb illegal Sand Mining

  • Illegal mining leads to loss of revenue to the State and degradation of the environment.

About:

  • Minister also appealed for sustainable sand mining to prevent the depletion of natural resources from river beds.
  • Sand is a minor mineral under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) therefore it comes under state government regulations.
  • MMDR Act empowers state governments to frame rules to prevent illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals.

Need for Sustainable sand Mining:

  • To ensure the conservation of the river equilibrium and its natural environment.
  • To ensure there is no obstruction to the river flow, water transport.
  • To prevent ground water pollution by prohibiting sand mining on fissures.

Steps to Promote Sustainable Mining:

  • Sand mining framework (2018) and Enforcement and Monitoring Guidelines for Sand Mining (2020) to assist governments in addressing issues of Sand mining sector.
  • Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana to be implemented by funds collected under District Mineral Foundations and utilised for welfare and development of mining affected areas.
  • Mining Surveillance System.
  • Developing alternatives to sand.

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Courtesy: PIB