How prevalent is illegal coal mining in India?
According to the Ministry of Coal, illegal mining in India is mostly carried out in abandoned mines or shallow coal seams in remote or isolated places
Coal is the most abundant fossil fuel in India, accounting for 55% of the country’s energy needs.
The high demand for power in India translates into a high demand for coal, which often outstrips the legal supply, prompting illegal supply
What are the legal frameworks governing coal mining in India?
Coal in India was nationalised in two phases: first with the coking coal (used for the production of coke in the steel industry) in 1971-72; and then with the non-coking coal mines in 1973.
The Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1973 is the central legislation that determines eligibility for coal mining in India.
Why is the responsibility for addressing illegal mining placed on State governments?
Illegal mining constitutes a law and order problem, which is a State list subject
Hence, the onus of dealing with it falls on State governments rather than the Union government.
What factors contribute to the persistence of illegal coal mining?
Many areas that are rich in coal are also situated close to homes for populations struggling with poverty and unemployment, which contributes to illegal mining in these areas.
Illegal mining is often carried out using rudimentary techniques like surface mining and rat-hole mining
In areas where coal seams are closer to the surface, illegal miners access them with limited safety equipment.
Minimal operational costs can also turn into significant profits, making illegal mining lucrative
What safety risks do workers face?
Miners face increased respiratory risks due to inhaling coal dust, and the lack of safety equipment significantly increases this risk
Illegal mines lack proper structural support to carry out the extraction of coal, making working conditions hazardous and vulnerable to cave-ins, landslides, and explosions.
Workers may also be exposed to high levels of toxic substances like lead and mercury, which can cause acute poisoning or long-term chronic medical conditions
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