Give an account on mineral resources of India. Explain the impacts of mining activity on the environment.

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Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

India produces about 95 minerals, from iron ore, bauxite and coal to mica and graphite, though mining adds only about 1.4% to GDP. Mining degrades land and habitats, pollutes water and air and displaces people, as seen in chromium pollution at Sukinda and radiation risks near Jadugoda.

**Introduction**

India’s diverse mineral resources underpin its economic development, but mining activities have significant environmental and social impacts that must be managed sustainably to balance growth with ecological preservation.

**Mineral Resources of India**

1. **Diverse and Strategic Mineral Wealth**: India produces about 95 minerals, including iron ore, bauxite, and manganese; Andhra Pradesh⟦1⟧ holds 86.11% of barytes reserves and 18.49% of road metal reserves, underscoring regional importance and the need for focused resource management.  
2. **Critical Mineral Strategy and Policy**: The National Critical Mineral Mission⟦2⟧ and the 2025 Mining Bill⟦3⟧ aim to reduce import dependence by promoting multi-mineral leases and area extensions, enhancing resource security and encouraging domestic exploration of minerals like lithium and cobalt.

**Environmental Impacts of Mining**

3. **Ecological and Health Hazards**: Mining causes land degradation, habitat loss, water pollution (e.g., hexavalent chromium contamination in Sukinda), and air pollution with occupational hazards such as radioactive exposure near Jadugoda Uranium mines, threatening biodiversity and public health.  
4. **Social and Regulatory Challenges**: Coal mining in Jharkhand⟦4⟧ affects indigenous communities through displacement; audits of Andhra Pradesh mines highlight revenue and compliance gaps; governance reforms are urged by the Standing Committee on Coal, Mines, and Steel⟦5⟧ to improve transparency and rehabilitation.

**Way Forward**

5. **Sustainable Practices and Governance**: Strengthening Environment Management Plans, promoting mineral recycling of metals like aluminum and copper, and enhancing regulatory coordination between central and state agencies are vital for sustainable mining and conservation.

**Conclusion**

India’s mineral resources are key to strategic autonomy⟦6⟧ and economic growth, but sustainable mining practices and robust environmental safeguards are essential to protect ecological integrity and community welfare.

Give an account on mineral resources of India. Explain the impacts of mining activity on the environment.

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