PARLIAMENT QUESTION: IMPACT OF URANIUM MINING ON HEALTH - 23rd July 2026 - Department of Atomic Energy - Gazette Notification PDF

Executive Summary This report summarizes the findings regarding the health impacts of uranium mining in Jharkhand as presented in a parliamentary reply on July 23, 2026. Monitoring by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and the Uranium Corporation of India (UCIL) indicates that radiation exposure remains within safe limits. The document details ongoing environmental surveillance, worker health programs, and community welfare initiatives.

Key Points / Main Content

• Regulatory Oversight and Monitoring

  • UCIL operations are strictly overseen by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), and the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB).
  • The Health Physics Unit (HPU) of BARC conducts continuous radiological monitoring of workplaces and the surrounding environment, including air, water, soil, and food samples.
  • Results consistently show that radiation exposure for both workers and the public is well within the limits prescribed by the AERB.

• Health Study Findings

  • Medical examinations of a large number of villagers in Jharkhand revealed that observed health issues are typical of rural areas with similar socio-economic conditions.
  • Past studies conclude that disease patterns in the vicinity of uranium mining operations cannot be attributed to radiation exposure.

• Worker and Community Safety Measures

  • Long-term environmental surveillance and health monitoring programs are actively implemented by UCIL in coordination with BARC.
  • UCIL conducts periodic health surveillance and medical examinations for all workers to ensure compliance with safety standards.

• Community Welfare and Awareness

  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs provide local communities with safe drinking water, healthcare, sanitation, education, and infrastructure.
  • Periodic awareness programs on radiation safety are organized for villagers, local representatives, teachers, students, and media personnel.

Impact Analysis

Stakeholder: Mining Workers Impact Workers are subject to continuous monitoring of occupational radiation exposure and are protected by safety standards that keep exposure within regulatory limits. Action Required Workers must undergo periodic health surveillance and medical examinations as part of the mandatory safety protocol.

Stakeholder: Local Communities (Jharkhand Villages) Impact Residents benefit from CSR initiatives and health assessment programs, with findings indicating no adverse health impacts from radiation. Action Required Villagers and local representatives are encouraged to participate in health assessment programs and radiation safety awareness sessions.

Stakeholder: Uranium Corporation of India (UCIL) Impact UCIL is responsible for maintaining compliance with AERB standards and implementing long-term environmental and community welfare measures. Action Required Continue regular monitoring of environmental samples and coordinate with BARC for ongoing health surveillance and CSR activities.

Stakeholder: Regulatory Bodies (AERB, DGMS, SPCB) Impact These agencies are responsible for the safety oversight and periodic inspection of mining and processing facilities. Action Required Maintain rigorous periodic reviews and inspections to ensure UCIL operations adhere to all safety and environmental regulations.