MODULE-1 Flashcards
What is the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957?
The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) is the primary legislation governing the regulation of mines and development of minerals in India. It provides guidelines for granting mineral concessions, mineral exploration, and mining operations.
What are the key objectives of the MMDR Act, 1957?
To regulate mining activities and promote scientific mining.
To ensure conservation of minerals.
To control illegal mining and encourage sustainable mineral development.
To provide transparency in the allocation of mineral resources.
What is the classification of minerals under the MMDR Act?
Minerals are classified into:
Major Minerals – Such as coal, iron ore, gold, and bauxite.
Minor Minerals – Such as sand, gravel, clay, and limestone used in construction.
What are the types of mineral concessions under the MMDR Act?
The three types of mineral concessions are:
Reconnaissance Permit (RP) – For preliminary survey and exploration.
Prospecting License (PL) – For detailed exploration of mineral deposits.
Mining Lease (ML) – For commercial extraction of minerals.
What is the role of the State and Central Government in mining regulation?
The Central Government formulates policy and provides overall regulation through laws like the MMDR Act.
The State Governments grant mineral concessions, regulate mining activities within their territories, and collect royalties.
What are the provisions related to illegal mining under the MMDR Act?
Heavy penalties for illegal mining, including imprisonment and fines.
Confiscation of minerals extracted illegally.
Ban on mining operations if found in violation of the Act.
What are the environmental safeguards in mining activities?
- Mandatory Environmental Clearance (EC) from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- Implementation of Sustainable Development Framework (SDF).
- Rehabilitation and reclamation of mined areas.
- Strict regulations on waste disposal and pollution control.
What is the role of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF)?
The DMF is set up to benefit people affected by mining operations by funding welfare projects, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
What is the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET)?
NMET is a trust created to finance regional and detailed mineral exploration in India, improving resource discovery and utilization.
What are the amendments brought by the MMDR (Amendment) Act, 2015?
Introduction of auction-based allocation of mineral blocks.
Increased transparency in the allocation process.
Extension of lease periods to ensure long-term stability in mining operations.
Strengthening penalties for illegal mining.