2 minAct/Law
Act/Law

Environmental Degradation (due to illegal mining)

What is Environmental Degradation (due to illegal mining)?

Environmental Degradation refers to the deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources such as air, water, and soil; the destruction of ecosystems; and the extinction of wildlife. Illegal mining is a major driver of this, involving extraction of minerals without proper permits or in violation of environmental norms.

Historical Background

Post-independence, rapid industrialization and infrastructure development led to increased demand for minerals. Inadequate regulation and enforcement, coupled with economic incentives, fueled illegal mining. Major environmental movements like Chipko Movement (1970s) highlighted resource exploitation. The Environment (Protection) Act 1986 was a landmark response.

Key Points

9 points
  • 1.

    Causes habitat destruction and biodiversity loss, impacting flora and fauna.

  • 2.

    Leads to groundwater depletion and contamination due to disruption of aquifers and chemical runoff.

  • 3.

    Generates air pollution (dust, particulate matter) affecting respiratory health and visibility.

  • 4.

    Causes soil erosion, land degradation, and desertification, reducing agricultural productivity.

  • 5.

    Disrupts hydrological cycles, altering river courses and increasing flood risks.

  • 6.

    Impacts ecosystem services benefits humans receive from ecosystems like water purification, climate regulation.

  • 7.

    Often involves child labor and unsafe working conditions.

  • 8.

    Contributes to climate change through associated energy consumption and land-use changes.

  • 9.

    Leads to loss of forest cover and fragmentation of wildlife corridors.

Recent Developments

5 developments
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Increased focus on sustainable mining practices and mine reclamation.

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Use of satellite imagery and drone technology for monitoring illegal mining.

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Implementation of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) for welfare of mining-affected areas.

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Supreme Court and NGT continue to issue directives against illegal mining, e.g., in Aravallis, Western Ghats.

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Debate on balancing economic development with environmental protection.

Source Topic

Aravalli Hills Face Environmental Threat from Illegal Mining Despite SC Orders

Environment & Ecology

UPSC Relevance

Crucial for UPSC GS Paper 3 (Environment, Economy, Disaster Management) and GS Paper 1 (Geography). Frequently appears in Prelims (environmental acts, bodies, impacts) and Mains (case studies, policy recommendations, sustainable development).