gs1medium

With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements:

  1. 1.Sand is a ‘minor mineral’ according to the prevailing law in the country.
  2. 2.State Governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.
  3. 3.State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. A.1 and 3 only
  2. B.2 and 3 only
  3. C.3 only
  4. D.1, 2 and 3
▶ Answer & Explanation

Correct answer: A. 1 and 3 only

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, defines minor minerals, and sand falls under this category, empowering states to manage it. State governments are indeed vested with the authority to frame rules and regulations aimed at preventing illegal mining activities concerning these minerals. While states have leasing powers, the Central Government sets the overarching policy framework, but states possess the autonomy to frame specific rules for the management and prevention of illegal mining of minor minerals.

Source: UPSC gs1 2019

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