QUESTION 17
GS3
15 marks
Mineral resources are fundamental to the country's economy and these are exploited by mining. Why is mining considered an environmental hazard? Explain the remedial measures required to reduce the environmental hazard due to mining.
WRITE IN
11 min
250 words
What the examiner wants
Explain why mining harms the environment and the remedial measures to reduce the harm.
ExplainMake clear how and why it happens: causes, process, and an example for each point.
Demand-wise check
- 1Hazards: deforestation and habitat loss, land degradation and overburden dumps, water pollution (acid mine drainage), groundwater depletion, air pollution and dust, subsidence and fires (Jharia), displacement and health effects, illegal mining≈95 words
- 2Remedies: EIA and public hearing, sustainable mining plans, progressive and final mine closure plans, reclamation and afforestation, CAMPA, District Mineral Foundations, star rating system, tech (drone monitoring), strict action on illegal mining≈95 words
Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.
Answer plan
Importance of mineralsEnvironmental hazardsSocial hazardsRemediesConclusion
Where marks usually go
- Listing hazards without remedies
- No Indian example (Jharia, Bellary, Aravallis)
Draw this
- Mine life-cycle diagram: exploration → extraction → closure → reclamation
Value addition
- ExampleJharia coalfield in Jharkhand has had underground coal fires for over a century, forcing resettlement.Ministry of Coal, Jharia Master Plan
- RuleMineral Conservation and Development Rules require progressive and final mine closure plans with financial assurance.Ministry of Mines / Indian Bureau of Mines
Next: plan for one minute, write it in 11 minutes, then get it checked.