Rajasthan Battles Illegal Mining: Over 7,000 FIRs Filed in Seven Years

Rajasthan records over 7,000 illegal mining FIRs in 7 years, with Aravallis severely impacted.

Photo by Lars Portjanow

The BJP in Rajasthan highlighted that over 7,000 FIRs related to illegal mining have been registered in the state over the past seven years, with more than 4,000 cases specifically in the ecologically sensitive Aravalli hills. This alarming statistic underscores the persistent challenge of illegal mining, which not only causes significant environmental degradation but also leads to revenue loss for the state. The issue has been a point of contention between political parties, with accusations of inaction and complicity.

The Aravallis, a crucial green belt and water recharge zone, face severe threats from such activities, impacting biodiversity and local communities. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) and Supreme Court have repeatedly issued directives to curb illegal mining, yet enforcement remains a major hurdle.

Key Facts

Over 7,000 FIRs for illegal mining in Rajasthan in 7 years.

More than 4,000 FIRs specifically in the Aravalli hills.

BJP highlighted the data.

UPSC Exam Angles

Environmental impact of illegal mining (biodiversity loss, water depletion, land degradation, desertification)

Geographical and ecological significance of the Aravalli Range

Legal and regulatory framework for mining in India (Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, NGT Act)

Role of judicial bodies (Supreme Court, NGT) in environmental governance and protection

Challenges in environmental law enforcement and governance (political-criminal nexus, administrative loopholes)

Economic implications of illegal mining (revenue loss, impact on local livelihoods, informal economy)

Visual Insights

Illegal Mining Hotspots & FIRs in Rajasthan's Aravallis (2018-2025)

This map highlights Rajasthan, the state battling significant illegal mining, with a specific focus on the Aravalli hills where over 4,000 FIRs have been registered in the last seven years. It underscores the geographic concentration of this environmental and governance challenge.

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📍Aravalli Range (Rajasthan)📍Rajasthan State

Illegal Mining in Rajasthan: Key Statistics (2018-2025)

This dashboard presents the critical numbers related to illegal mining in Rajasthan over the past seven years, emphasizing the scale of the problem and its implications.

Total FIRs Registered: Over 7,000
FIRs in Aravalli Hills: Over 4,000
Environmental Impact: Severe Degradation
State Revenue Loss: Substantial

More Information

Background

The Aravalli Range, one of the oldest fold mountain systems in the world, stretches across Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat. It plays a crucial ecological role as a natural barrier against desertification from the Thar Desert, a significant water recharge zone, and a habitat for diverse flora and fauna.

Historically, the region has been rich in minerals, leading to extensive mining activities, both legal and illegal. The pressure on the Aravallis has intensified with rapid urbanization and industrialization in the surrounding regions.

Latest Developments

The recent news highlights the alarming scale of illegal mining in Rajasthan, with over 7,000 FIRs filed in seven years, a significant portion (over 4,000) specifically within the ecologically sensitive Aravalli hills. This indicates a persistent challenge despite judicial interventions from the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The issue is a major point of political contention, with accusations of inaction and complicity, underscoring the deep-rooted governance and enforcement problems.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Aravalli Range: 1. It is one of the oldest fold mountain systems in the world, predating the Himalayas. 2. Its highest peak, Guru Shikhar, is located in Rajasthan. 3. The range acts as a natural barrier preventing the eastward spread of the Thar Desert. 4. Mining activities are completely prohibited in the entire Aravalli range due to its ecological sensitivity. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1, 2 and 3 only
B.2 and 4 only
C.1, 3 and 4 only
D.1, 2, 3 and 4

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is correct. The Aravallis are indeed one of the oldest fold mountain systems. Statement 2 is correct. Guru Shikhar, located in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, is the highest peak of the Aravalli Range. Statement 3 is correct. The Aravallis play a crucial role in checking the eastward expansion of the Thar Desert. Statement 4 is incorrect. While there are significant restrictions and concerns regarding mining in the Aravallis, it is not 'completely prohibited' in the entire range. Legal mining leases exist, though illegal mining is a major issue and many areas are under strict protection.

2. With reference to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and environmental governance in India, consider the following statements: 1. The NGT was established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. 2. It has jurisdiction over all civil cases where a substantial question relating to the environment is involved. 3. Appeals against the orders of the NGT lie directly with the Supreme Court of India. 4. The NGT can take suo motu cognizance of environmental matters based on media reports or public complaints. Which of the statements given above are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1, 3 and 4 only
D.2, 3 and 4 only

Show Answer

Answer: D

Statement 1 is incorrect. The NGT was established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, not the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Statement 2 is correct. The NGT has jurisdiction over all civil cases where a substantial question relating to the environment is involved. Statement 3 is correct. Any person aggrieved by an order or decision of the NGT can appeal to the Supreme Court within 90 days. Statement 4 is correct. The NGT has increasingly taken suo motu cognizance of environmental issues based on various sources, including media reports and public complaints, to ensure environmental protection.

3. Which of the following statements correctly describes the regulatory framework for mining in India? 1. The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, is the principal legislation governing mining in India. 2. Minor minerals, such as building stones and ordinary sand, are regulated by the Central Government, while major minerals are regulated by State Governments. 3. The District Mineral Foundation (DMF) is a trust established in all districts affected by mining-related operations, funded by contributions from miners. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A.1 and 2 only
B.1 and 3 only
C.2 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is correct. The MMDR Act, 1957, is indeed the principal legislation. Statement 2 is incorrect. The regulation of minor minerals (like building stones, ordinary sand, clay) falls under the purview of State Governments, while major minerals (like coal, iron ore, bauxite) are regulated by the Central Government. This is a common point of confusion. Statement 3 is correct. The MMDR Amendment Act, 2015, mandated the establishment of District Mineral Foundations (DMFs) in all districts affected by mining operations, to work for the welfare of people and areas affected by mining, funded by contributions from miners.