Consider the following statements:
Statement I: In India, State Governments have no power for making rules for grant of concessions in respect of extraction of minor minerals even though such minerals are located in their territories.
Statement II: In India, the Central Government has the power to notify minor minerals under the relevant law.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- A.Both Statement I and Statement II are correct and Statement II explains Statement I
- B.Both Statement I and Statement II are correct but Statement II does not explain Statement I
- C.Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
- D.Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: D. Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
State governments have the primary authority to frame rules for the grant of concessions for minor minerals, which are found within their territories. The definition and notification of what constitutes a 'minor mineral' falls under the purview of the Central Government, as stipulated in the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act. Therefore, the State Governments do possess the power regarding concessions, making Statement I incorrect, while Statement II accurately reflects the Central Government's role in defining minor minerals.
Source: UPSC gs1 2025