Parliament Question: Impact of Mining on Environment and Health

Executive Summary: The Ministry of Mines addressed concerns regarding the environmental and health impacts of mining operations, specifically those of Hindustan Zinc Limited in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The response outlines existing regulations, monitoring processes, and initiatives like the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) and Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) to ensure sustainable mining practices and address health-related issues in affected areas. The answer references the Mineral Conservation and Development Rules 2017, the Minerals Other than Atomic and Hydro Carbons Energy Minerals Concession Rules 2016, the Mines Minerals Development Regulation Act of 2015, the National Mineral Policy of 2019, and the Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act of 1957. Key Points / Main Content: Environmental Protection and Regulation: * The Mineral Conservation and Development Rules (MCDR), 2017, mandate sustainable mining operations that protect the environment, flora, and fauna. * The Minerals Other than Atomic and Hydro Carbons Energy Minerals Concession Rules, 2016, require leaseholders to undertake environmental protection measures at their own expense, including afforestation, land reclamation, and pollution control. * These environmental requirements are included as binding conditions within the lease deed. * Regular inspections of Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) units have not established any adverse environmental impact from their mining operations in Udaipur. Health and Welfare Initiatives: * The Mines Minerals Development Regulation (MMDR) Act, as amended in 2015, provides for the establishment of District Mineral Foundations (DMFs) in mining-affected districts. * DMFs have been set up in 646 districts across 23 states. * The Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) implements schemes for the welfare and development of mining-affected areas using DMF funds. * Under PMKKKY, Rs 9237.45 Cr has been sanctioned for 22592 health-related projects until May 31, 2025. Guidelines and Policies: * The National Mineral Policy (NMP) 2019 focuses on sustainable and transparent mining practices and environmentally sound mining. * The NMP 2019 aims to revamp the regulatory framework for the mining sector to promote sustainable practices. * The Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) is the primary law governing the development and regulation of mines and minerals. * The NMP 2019 and the MMDR Act ensure responsible mineral resource management. Impact Analysis: Mining Companies (e.g., Hindustan Zinc Limited): * Impact: Required to adhere to environmental protection measures as per MCDR 2017 and Minerals Concession Rules 2016, subject to regular inspections. * Action Required: Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, participate in environmental protection activities, and cooperate with inspections. Local Residents in Mining-Affected Areas: * Impact: Benefit from health and welfare projects funded through the DMF and implemented under the PMKKKY. * Action Required: Engage with local DMFs to ensure their needs are addressed through the PMKKKY schemes. Government (Central and State): * Impact: Responsible for enforcing mining regulations, conducting inspections, and overseeing the DMF and PMKKKY initiatives. * Action Required: Ensure effective implementation of MCDR 2017, Minerals Concession Rules 2016, NMP 2019, and MMDR Act, monitor mining activities, and manage DMF funds effectively.

Key Entities Referenced