DNA Edit: Rampant exploitation of mining resources must end

It is common knowledge that regardless of strict regulations, illegal mining is rampant in Jharkhand. Justice MB Shah commission’s 2014 report said that the mineral-rich state alone accounts for Rs 22,000 crore worth of illegal mining. In view of that, the government’s draft plan for sustainable iron ore mining in Saranda, with the intention to protect over 200 elephants and the dense sal forests, deserves wholehearted support and encouragement.

Conservation of biodiversity is as important as mining. However, the general outlook often pits nature against development while turning a blind eye to the hazards of wiping out flora and fauna. In this case, it might affect mega mining projects of private and public-sector companies, but the government must not abdicate its responsibility of conserving forests and protecting biodiversity hotspots. It is evident that mining giants have rarely shown commitment to nature while digging for minerals. Sometimes the courts had to intervene to restrict their activities.

In February, the Supreme Court, while dealing with cases of illegal mining in six states, had reprimanded the central government for its failure to curb the theft of natural resources running into thousands of crores. It also asked the government to submit a plan to put an end to this pilferage. The Environment Ministry shouldn’t show any leniency to those violating mining rules and regulations. The forests, rivers, hills and minerals of this country belong to its people. Mining giants, with their money and muscle power, are riding roughshod over genuine concerns about the environmental impact of their reckless actions. They can’t use the ruse of development to fill their own coffers.